I’d expect the vast majority of such workers in the Arab region to be OFW’s (Overseas Filipino Workers). They’ve got such unending dedication and loyalty to their families that they send a very large share of what they earn home, often sacrificing most prospects they have for financial and personal growth for the good of their parents or younger siblings. The remittances from abroad make up about 8% of the country’s GDP, which is a staggering amount. This creates a vicious circle of dependence on Filipinos as cheap labour. A sad state of affairs when Filipinos are relatively well-educated, but often become victims of social dumping, simply because of where they’re from. They get paid, but are kept in a limbo where it’s very difficult to move up in the world. Can’t call it slavery, but you can’t not call it slavery either. I really hope conditions will improve for workers from developing countries.

Believe me, there’s nothing unusual about this building in the Philippines. You can easily find far worse-looking places that the city won’t touch.

I had cat scratch disease last year, and do not recommend it. Very painful and uncomfortable. If a cat bites or scratches you hard enough to break skin, clean and disinfect immediately. If you feel ill after a couple of weeks to a month, test yourself and kitty for Bartonella Henselae. If positive, prepare for three months to a year of misery.

“Omg, wait, let go! Oh… That’s actually really nice and warm, purrrrrrr…”

The fact that you’re asking has already answered the question. You’re only five weeks in, and already you’re showing more care for the child than some get through their whole childhood. Your greatest gifts will be love, wisdom, patience, understanding and a safe harbour when seas are rough. You’ll do great, and I’m cheering you on. All the best for the pregnancy to come full term.

If it’s Korean noodle soup (like buldak or nongshim), I throw in some sliced spam, an egg, fresh spring onion and a couple slices of American cheese (that plastic cheese they use on burgers). If it’s dry noodles, specifically IndoMie’s Mee Goreng, I shit you not, try adding a teaspoon of unsalted peanut butter in there.

Norwegians are supreme in the Nordics. We can count to five.

Maybe at least pour it in a different container? Edges on those things are sharp.