Kooky | ExpatWoman.com
 

Kooky

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Latest post on 19 October 2015 - 12:00
DH has a suspious black mole appeared on his back - any one have any current recommendations for someone to take a look?
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Latest post on 03 May 2015 - 09:32
Its a source of great amazement to me how different the impact of the flight path is within different parts of Mirdif. Some areas you'd never consider due to the noise, others you hardly notice it. It's not a particularly big suburb, so I don't understand why it's so different ??? FYI Royal Dubai school does not offer secondary - most of the kids from there go on to WSO at Silicon Oasis. There is however Uptown (IB) and the Canadian school. Also Deira Internationaal and the American school a bit closer to Festival city. There are also two Australian schools in Sharjah, which are quite close to MIrdif, but be careful there of the commute - the traffic is a nightmare. I may get shot down here, but I'd choose Mirdif over Silicon as its a more varied community. Silicon villas are all very very similar, and most of the residents work for Emirates, so whilst they are family based, it can be a bit claustrophobic. It does however have lovely facilities and is much greener than Mirdif. MIrdif is very close to Warsan, and I'd put it first on your list - just check out the quieter parts!
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Latest post on 02 May 2015 - 19:32
DEWA resort Nai Yan. It's lovely. A bit removed from most of the hustle and bustle but a lovely safe beach, right across the road, small stalls and restaurants, lovely rooms and a kids club :) It's right at the entrance to a national park although we've never done much exploring there are we are always there in the wet season with small kids .
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Latest post on 20 April 2015 - 20:30
How do we contact you?
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Latest post on 17 April 2015 - 07:42
There are heaps of African hairdressers in Deira/Abu Hail. But may I ask, what on earth is satin supposed to do to your hair?
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Latest post on 17 March 2015 - 21:43
"Saturday saw huge sandstorms"/"Monday will see large crowds" - Saturday/Monday don't see a bl#$%^&*y thing -they're DAYS, not living beings!!!!!
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Latest post on 17 March 2015 - 20:40
You should look at Mirdif. Much better facilities than Silicon Oasis IMHO. There are good schools there and a fabulous indoor mall (Mirdif City Centre) and one of Dubais few outdoor malls ( Uptown). Schools to look at in Mirdif would include GEMS Royal Dubai Mirdif Private Canadian School Uptown (IB) School of Research Science Star International. Mirdif would be much the same distance if not closer to Warsan than Silicon Oasis.
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Latest post on 17 March 2015 - 13:46
Thank you very much ladies, much appreciated.
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Latest post on 13 March 2015 - 09:36
Thank you ladies. To be honest, I have no idea what "reasonable" is for that area, but they keep sending me names of hotels and saying "how 'bout this?" - generally I have no idea where the hotel is much less what it's like ..... so I'm just glad to have some names and links I can send to them and leave that decision to them. Thank you very much. <em>edited by Kooky on 13/03/2015</em>
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Latest post on 11 March 2015 - 08:34
Anyone?
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Latest post on 11 March 2015 - 08:33
As Australians we are entitled to visa on arrival. We have had My FIL visit several times over the last few years without any hassles at all. He's 86 now! We always make sure he's insured, but immigration doesn't know that when they stamp him in. I'd say the age is probably not an issue - although I know you have more hurdles with the SA passport. Surely you can ask at immigration? Good luck.
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Latest post on 10 March 2015 - 11:11
I noticed there's a blind long haired very pretty cat looking for a new home advertised at Dubai off shore sailing club. I know nothing about cats so would have to have another look for the breed if you're interested,
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Latest post on 10 March 2015 - 11:09
I feel your pain! I cracked, lost my cool and totally vented on my MIL once and immediately regretted it as she took it very badly. Later though, I was glad I'd said my piece. There's no doubt it significantly changed my relationship with her, but at the end of the day - that was a good thing :) Good luck with whatever you decide to do.
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Latest post on 10 March 2015 - 11:06
Can anyone help with the names of some accommodation candidates for a reasonably priced hotel/apartment near Dubai Mall? It's for two adults, to young teenagers in a couple of weeks time. No idea myself as guests usually stay with us! <em>edited by Kooky on 10/03/2015</em>
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Latest post on 04 February 2015 - 13:21
Oh my goodness, this one is to me a no -brainer. OUT! If she's in an outside room and you need her, you can call her in but short of locking her in, theres nothing you can do to safeguard your privacy if she's living inside. We have a lovely helper I trust, and have a great relationship with, but living inside together drives us nuts - we can't get away and we've both lost our privacy. Never again.
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Latest post on 19 November 2014 - 08:47
Please ladies, take a moment to complain somewhere - this ad really does upset innocent children. Even a message on one of the radio stations Facebook pages or a call to the office itself. When I spoke to them they said I was the only one to have complained after a month on air. I find that hard to believe, but then again, I know many of us wonder if it's worth it or just don't get around to it. The ad is a disgrace and and should be taken off the air
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Latest post on 17 November 2014 - 07:58
Yes Lamcy's was fab! Although they changed it so that you have to run the gauntlet of all the paid c$%^p games so I don't go any more. The only problem with the supervised activities in the play centres I've seen is that so often theres no-one there or they're out of supplies. If you think you can manage that, my kids had an awesome time at a centre which had people helping them with sticking mosaics and basic origami. At another place they really enjoyed henna workshops - i.e. where THEY got to do the henna'ing.
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Latest post on 16 November 2014 - 21:52
I did it - same reason. Got a written warning from the school saying that I would be exceeding the 25 day ( I think) limit of absence accepted by KHDA and could not be guarenteed a place the following year. I went ballistic and they said they had to send the letter - and that whilst they were not obliged to offer my kids a place they would work with us to support the kids with take home work. They did and it was fine. No problems.
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Latest post on 16 November 2014 - 21:47
"paining" Aaaggghhhh
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Latest post on 16 November 2014 - 21:42
Just out of interest, do the thumbs down in some of the early posts here mean you are OK with this ad?
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Latest post on 16 November 2014 - 21:42
Just out of interest, do the thumbs down in some of the early posts here mean you are OK with this ad?
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Latest post on 14 November 2014 - 15:54
If they have data showing this is correct, that fathers are dying earlier as a result of issues that could have been avoided or prevented had the patient known about it earlier, then their ad is right. If they do not have this proof, then they ad is playing on emotions to get clients. That would be the question I would ask - is this for real? What are the recent statistics? Does DH really need to get a check so we can avoid that? I there something we do not know? I think parents often hide a lot of things from their children. The reality is that people are dying younger as a result of heart problems from bad diets, poor exercise, smoking - all things that amplify in Dubai - especially at the executive level. With due respect, there's a HUGE difference between reducing risk, more successful early treatment and making death OPTIONAL. I have no problem with the idea of screening, but this ad is disgusting and misleading.
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Latest post on 14 November 2014 - 14:51
That ad is horrible, I was dropping my kids to school when they heard it and I have not put 92 on in the car since hearing it. If you can put who to complain to I will do it as well. Really inappropriate and scary for kids to listen to. nicedaynat - OMG that spinneys ad, It makes me not want to eat meat. Who are the idiots running radio advertising in this country? Its always been bad, but at the moment its just horrendous. Di@DXB was good enough to share earlier. The National Media Council is the enforcing body for advertising standards in the UAE http://nmc.gov.ae/en/pages/ContactUs.aspx
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Latest post on 14 November 2014 - 14:51
That ad is horrible, I was dropping my kids to school when they heard it and I have not put 92 on in the car since hearing it. If you can put who to complain to I will do it as well. Really inappropriate and scary for kids to listen to. nicedaynat - OMG that spinneys ad, It makes me not want to eat meat. Who are the idiots running radio advertising in this country? Its always been bad, but at the moment its just horrendous. Di@DXB was good enough to share earlier. The National Media Council is the enforcing body for advertising standards in the UAE http://nmc.gov.ae/en/pages/ContactUs.aspx
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Latest post on 14 November 2014 - 11:46
Yeap, that's it! I've complained to them- who tell me it's OK, it's been passed by their marketing department and the ministry. They also said I was the only complaint they've received, so please ladies, get vocal!! Every single person I've spoken to has known which ad I'm talking about and agree it's disgusting but of course not many bother to complain. I'm taking it further as I had kids in the car who literally asked me why x's dad didn't choose to stay alive with their family. Ambulance chasing low life advertising is one thing, but that ad attracts childrens attention and is downright offensive and WRONG. Dying young IS NOT optional. Thanks Di@DXB edited by Kooky on 14/11/2014 edited by Kooky on 14/11/2014
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Latest post on 13 November 2014 - 22:09
Buy them on Amazon - they're MUCH cheaper. if you're open to another brand, I can recommend Lahnisol. They're bigger, stronger and cheaper than Medela.
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Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 11:39
Not at all! Thanks for the tip! Be careful on installing iOS 8 today as many have had problems due to how heavy the new upgrade is and lost photos/apps/contacts....reports recommend that you back up everything to your itunes and then make the upgrade in case you are one of the unlucky ones - sorry to diverge!
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Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 11:32
I believe there were many many people across Dubai who couldn't get it yesterday and I still can't. I can't believe how annoying it is - I didn't realise how heavily I relied on it's messenger service and don't have email addresses for lots of my "friends" anymore! Aggghhh
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Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 07:24
Anyone else still unable to get on? Any hints from those who can?
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Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 21:48
BTW Kooky, I gave you a star to get you on your way. I actually liked being an Explorer, it sounds like less of an addict than master, expert etc. Grand master sounds like someone from a monastery is amongst us! Why thank you Redrec Trangle - I wasn't sure how the star thing worked. Appreciate the boost and yes you're right, there's something very officious about Grand Master! I was just surprised to still be considered a novice after all this time :)
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Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 19:26
Hello Ladies... I am a Newbie on this forum and feeling a bit intimidated....surrounded by "Experts" and "Masters"! =) I've been here 7 years - I think with about 4 under this user name and I'm still only an explorer or something! Hmm, just noticed not even a star Hmmpff edited by Kooky on 14/06/2014 <em>edited by Kooky on 14/06/2014</em>
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Latest post on 02 June 2014 - 18:19
Anyone seen Anna and Elsa figurines suitable for the top of a birthday cake recently?
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Latest post on 02 June 2014 - 18:18
I'm sincerely hoping that's an English second language mistake!!!!
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Latest post on 10 May 2014 - 07:14
I'm in Mirdif too and another thumbs up. I think the reason people are not recommending compound names is that there are so many small to medium sized compounds and they're generally referred to the Blue roofed villas on 53 or the villas opposite the Chinese style villa etc! Noise can be an issue in Mirdif. I'm not a muslim, but personally I love the call to prayer so that doesn't bother me. FYI I think the area referred to by the person concerned with call to prayer/friday sermon noise is the area between Aswaaq on 71st st and small Spinney's on 53, on the "Uptown" side of Algeria st. Fight noise is probably worse on the other side of Algeria st, and IMHO worst at Uptown itself. It is strange though, how villas only a km or so apart can have SUCH a different flight noise experience - it's all about the flight path, which incidentally changes according to the wind, so if it's a concern to you, you will have to drag yourself out of your sick bed for a couple of visits. Sorry to hear you're not well at such an important decision time! <em>edited by Kooky on 10/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 08:56
ALSO SNIFF on Facebook (Strays needing Interim or furever homes). I know they have puppies right now.
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Latest post on 26 April 2014 - 21:14
No, but I have a fabulous helper who has a friend who was looking for work some time ago - she was from Madagascar, and that was her problem - I believe you need a company visa for her. If you can provide that, I'll ask my lady if that lady is still looking for work. Our lady has been with us for 6 years, and this is the ONLY lady she has ever actually recommended, so I'm confident, she'd be a good employee.
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Latest post on 19 April 2014 - 21:10
Thanks ladies - much appreciated
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Latest post on 14 April 2014 - 15:03
Any news on her husband, he is about the only doc my DH will ever see! Sorry I didn't think to ask, but as it's the same employer etc I guess he is probably starting around the same date too.
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Latest post on 07 April 2014 - 13:37
Thanks ladies. I have no desire to aggravate my neighbours, but really feel that in a large family compound (16 villas), they've picked the wrong villa and could have reasonably expected pool noise. Unfortunately the feud going on between some of the other families means the topic is more emotive than it needs to be and may mean things get more heated than they need to :( With regard to AmyAus 82's suggestion that I'm closed minded or intolerant to the local customs Im not even going to respond. She's far from right. My situation is about what is reasonable - both in behaviour and expectations.
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Latest post on 06 April 2014 - 12:05
You'd be surprised how much you can make selling your stuff. Dubizzle, garage sales, baby market, regional selling facebook pages - mirdif market, arabian ranches souq etc etc
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Latest post on 24 March 2014 - 22:19
A private GP told me once that once you've been admitted to a private hospital, it's almost impossible to be transferred to Rashid or Latifa - which is a disaster if you really need highly specialised care or equipment.
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Latest post on 23 March 2014 - 18:52
8am - 3.30pm on a Saturday are not exactly quiet hours, and as it's just once a week, can you not leave them outside? Even if they bark, it's not like its everyday or at night or early morning …….
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Latest post on 21 March 2014 - 12:09
Mine is off from 7pm Thursday till 7 am Sunday morning, unless we need babysitting.
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Latest post on 18 March 2014 - 16:28
He is really fabulous. Three people in our household have seen him and all were impressed. You won't be sorry!
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Latest post on 17 March 2014 - 15:20
I thinks it's a great idea - we should have it for Dubai parent visitors too!
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Latest post on 15 March 2014 - 20:48
Cleo4e, what rotten luck to encounter so many such so an so's in such a short time. Try to take a step out of your current life and think about what your former, non sleep deprived self would have thought of such people. Be kind to yourself. It's not an easy gig and you sound like you're doing great job, and even considering your kids before yourself. Remember though, sometimes it' a bit like the oxygen masks on the plane. You need to look after yourself before those you're responsible for!
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Latest post on 08 March 2014 - 08:20
If you're transporting in a cooler bag/box, pack the empty space with newspaper - it's remarkably good at helping with the insulation.
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Latest post on 05 March 2014 - 13:35
Family dr, thank you. Dr Delphine seems to be the only female dr there at the moment - funny I always think of her as a lactation consultant, not a dr!
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Latest post on 21 February 2014 - 10:11
Personally I prefer cloth wraps, but whatever you decide, please please please make sure you understand this link and it's importance and use the information to help you to select a good carrier. http://www.hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/ And here's a link to the Dubai babywearing facebook page, it has excellent links https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dubai-Babywearing/120317794705638 Babywearing is awesome! edited by Kooky on 21/02/2014 <em>edited by Kooky on 21/02/2014</em>
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Latest post on 16 February 2014 - 21:26
Oh please do!