Apricot | ExpatWoman.com
 

Apricot

1987
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Latest post on 02 December 2014 - 10:33
Try The One Outlet shop inside Dubai Outlet Mall, esp on Monday when there's an extra 20% discount. We've bought many sofas from there.
1987
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Latest post on 02 December 2014 - 10:29
Hi not sure about packages, but you're not too far from Pretty Lady on Mankhool. It's a very god salon with very good prices. Hth xWhite Orchid I used to be a loyal customer of Pretty Lady, until they recently began charging Jumeira1 prices lol! I found a good package at a salon nr my dentist on Bank Street called Beautiful Times, in the Habib Bank bldg. I did waxing n pedicure there, was v happy w hygiene, service, etc.
1987
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Latest post on 28 November 2014 - 20:35
Norak, it came out sooo delicious!! I omitted the melted butter, and used some tips from the comments: used 2 whole eggs, increased the cinnamon and ginger, added ground nutmeg. I also used the whole can of pumpkin (didn't bother to measure out 2 cups!). Baked it until the surface just started to crack a little. Cooled on rack then put in fridge to set overnight.
1987
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Latest post on 28 November 2014 - 20:31
You can order a fresh bacon-wrapped turkey from the UK, read to be cooked in your home oven, from Park n Shop Jumeira.
1987
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Latest post on 28 November 2014 - 20:24
Thanks Catawba KSE, I found and got the Fresh Selections pouch of fried onions at Spinneys Mercato :) Their head butcher, Peter, helped me order a fresh, certified zabiha turkey from France. On the day that I picked it up, Peter butterflied the turkey, removed and set aside the internal organs and excess neck skin, and chopped the back-bone into smaller pieces suitable for making turkey stock (to be used in turkey gravy!). To cook the turkey, I followed the instructions given on the Serious Eats website for "herb-rubbed crisp-skinned butterflied roast turkey", but increased the cooking time a tad bit to accommodate my guests' preferences (ie no pink bones!). The turkey was incredibly delicious!!!
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 25 November 2014 - 21:27
DH says the owner is Abu Saif and Tariq is the guy who organizes the day-to-day.
1987
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Latest post on 25 November 2014 - 21:15
Many of my friends take their nannies and servants along for Umrah and Hajj. Through my maid, I've learnt that most servants are happy about joining these trips. Assuming the nanny is Muslim, some Umrah/ Hajj offices will organize their visa along with the sponsoring family, and others may refuse. Generally, the male head of household is considered the nanny's "mahram" (male family guadian) for umrah/hajj visa purposes. Best source of info is the Saudi consulate in Bur Dubai ;)
1987
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 22:49
Hi, the agency is called Al Istiqamah/ Estiqamah. Their office is located in a series of small shops to the left of the main entrance of Choueifat School-Sharjah, on University City Rd. I will get the names of DH's contacts there and post. Their agents who meet up with clients in Saudi are friendly and well-mannered.
1987
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 22:35
The figs at Union Coop are dh 28/kg so marginally more expensive than the summer "peak crop" price.
1987
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 22:24
Has anyone seen French's fried onions? How far in advance can you bake a pecan pie? An apple pie? Am gonna do my last round of grocery shopping for Thanksgiving tomorrow (frozen Brussels sprouts, green beans n carrots n celery n mushrooms, butter) and pick up the 5 kg fresh spatch-cocked turkey special-ordered at Spinneys. It's my first time hosting Thanksgiving dinner for a large group, roasting a turkey (last year I roasted a 2 kg chicken for my cousin and our kids), and most of the guests aren't familiar w the custom (safety net!!!). Very helpful tutorials on Serious Eats.
1987
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 00:30
Hi, your nationality is irrelevant to the process. What matters is your valid UAE residency :) Visa costs and time of issue will depend on the Umrah travel agent or guide you choose. The "most professional" place would be the Umrah/ Hajj counter in the Dnata/ Emirates Holidays Bldg on Sheikh Zayed Rd, btwn the JW Marquise Marriott and Business Bay/ Executive Towers. There are also smaller agents in places like Bur Dubai, Al Nahda, Rashidiya. My husband arranges our visits with a specific agency in Sharjah whose staff primarily speak Arabic, so that may not be useful for you. Let me know if it is, and I'll give you further details.
1987
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Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 00:19
i thought one schoolbag that can take his lunch goodies. less things to lose or misplace and less things for him to carry. but then again, it's only into school and out of school that he will carry it (read: mum will carry it) because they stay in one class the whole day. stupid question: do they have any books to carry from home to school? edited by ilovewine on 23/11/2014 Each school has its own policies about backpacks and uniforms, often posted on their website. My FS1 student can't use a trolley bag and his backpack should fit within a certain color scheme (although I have seen most students ignore the color scheme rule!). His PBK backpack (medium size) has enough room for the matching PBK lunchbag and any folders/books/ PE kit bag that needs to be transported to/from school. The backpack stays in his cubby all day, but he is constantly on the move between different class subjects like phonics, French, music, Arabic, PE, swimming, library visit. I do plan to eventually change the lunchbag for a small cooler box, probably when the backpack needs replacing :) Yes, there are a lot of books that go back and forth. Daily: homework/ parent communication book, 3 weekly reading books. 2-3 times a week: Ministry textbook, workbook and assignments for Arabic and Islamic. (Same for the Francophone students.) Weekly: library books, spelling book, swim bag. Btw, I bought my kids' backpacks and lunch bags from the bargain corner of PBK in Dubai. It so happened that they preferred the discontinued style. If you have SnS, look out for LL Bean's clearance on school backpacks, known for their rugged durability. During my last trip back home, I bought loads of socks (daily and PE) in the school uniform colors and bought appropriate daily and PE shoes. I use a black Sharpie or other permanent felt tip marker to label most items, apart from the uniform clothes which came with personalized iron-on labels, and so far it has worked well.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 November 2014 - 23:46
ABS by Allen Schwartz (he copies all the Oscars gowns for the mass market) in Festival Centre, Hobbs and Karen Millen are also great for long evening dresses. Debenhams own brand shapewear is really effective underneath all evening wear! Sana Fashions (close to Al Bustan Ctr) sells great cheapo push-up bras should your chosen dress need some extra lift lol.
1987
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Latest post on 23 November 2014 - 23:36
Abeda Otukar gives classes and she also runs a successful catering business. I think her company is called Spice and Aroma??
1987
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Latest post on 23 November 2014 - 23:34
Expanding on the recommendation from Apricot- Speaking of extra bags... if you go to REI they have small to extra large duffle bags that fold down to a small size. So you can pack it in your bags in the future in case you end up needing an extra bag. I have them and they come in handy. :) Abaddon, my nearest REI is next to a Marshalls store, talk about perfect pairing :) I've just ordered the LLBean duffel bags, to be brought over by a family visitor, but will definitely remember REI. Re the hotdogs, the best I've found locally are the in-house beef frankfurters at Organic F&C, next best are Prime and Midamar (at Hyperpanda and Safestway) brands. So happy you mentioned veggie and fruit seeds! I often bring a stash back, and even bought a bunch of seeds while in Hong Kong, which grew very well here. Vitamins are a great bargain in the States. Walmart brand, Trader Joes brand, and if you can find someone with a membership, Costco/ Sam's Club. My aunt had corporate visitors from China who requested a trip to Costco, where they specifically bought large containers of omega 3-6-9 and other supplements.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 November 2014 - 23:08
Saudi Arabia has laws requiring that all GMO ingredients be listed on a separate label affixed to the food or food package. A similar law was prevented from passing in the UAE in 2006.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 November 2014 - 23:03
I found some fresh Turkish figs at Union Coop opp Safa Park on Friday, they're packed into a tray and sold with the other fruits in pre-packed boxes/trays, near the artichokes and Holland-imported veg.
1987
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Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 22:26
If you have the time, there are shops like Ross/Marshalls/TJ Maxx/ Big Lots/ Home Goods/ Tuesday Morning that have an assortment of branded items (clothing, kids clothing, kids toys, home accessories, kitchen gadgets, towels and bedding, gift items, shoes) at 70% below retail prices. These places are located within suburbs so you don't have to drive 1 hr plus out of the urban areas towards an outlet center in the hope of bargains. (Petrol prices are quite steep in most states nowadays.) Macy's is particularly worth shopping at if you catch a weekend sale (at least once a month) and/ or know someone in the States who has their credit card plus the special additional discount vouchers they receive. I like their imitation jewelry and mens clothes. Cosmetics and a few brands like Le Sportsac and Le Creuset are never included in these discount offers. TBH, I prefer to buy cosmetics at Nordstrom rather than Macy's. The same price, more selection of premium brands, and much better customer service. Nordstrom has an outlet called Nordstrom Rack and Saks Fifth Avenue has an outlet called Off 5th.Target carries a brand called Sonia Kashuk which are the best bargain-priced makeup brushes. Walmart carries ELF makeup brushes and has excellent Danskin sports bras. If you like Crate and Barrel, it is worth seeking out their outlet stores in the States. I bought lovely tablecloths for $16 (which I saw in the Dubai shops a month prior to travel at $60), and some other great pieces. If you have wide feet, Footwear Etc has a great and stylish selection and well-trained staff. Zappos dot com has good prices on Michael Kors handbags, if that floats your boat. And if you need an extra bag to bring all your goodies back to Dubai, Amazon and LLBean sell durable duffle bags without wheels.
1987
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Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 21:46
Hi Saggi, I have gone down the route chosen by Fiat500 and AnonDubai with my live-in maid. I give her as much advance warning as I can, and ask that she bring in her bedding close to the kids room. Sometimes she will bring in the ironing board so she can continue with her ironing.She is instructed to call me if the child(ren) aren't easily consoled or health worsens. I have also asked my live-in maids to help clean up after children who have vomited or peed in their beds in the middle of the night, without extra hourly pay. I have done this with 3 different live-in maids, and haven't received any objections.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 21:24
Try the Union Coop, esp the branch opp Safa Park. I was told by a salesman at Jashanmal that they send all their "old stock" to be sold cheaper at Union Coop. If you are feeling more adventurous, I have seen lots of Kenwood appliances (various types and models) sold in the domestic electronics/ kitchenwares shops along Naif Rd in Deira.
1987
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Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 21:17
I bought a Miele vacuum last year on Sanddy Dogg's recommendation (the pet hair one although we dont live with pets) from the Sheikh Zayed Rd showroom, and am very happy with it. I buy the replacement bags from Amazon UK. I'm a careful spender, and I feel that this vacuum is worth the money paid.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 November 2014 - 00:58
When you bring food items across, packet mixes etc, do you just put them in hold luggage? Yes, you should be fine packing it all in the checked-in luggage. Spice mix won't get you in trouble. Customs will question you over pharmaceuticals, vitamins, and poppy seeds (for culinary use or otherwise) found in luggage. I smile politely and explain what kind of vitamins or pharmaceuticals I've brought in, and yes, the quantity is for my personal use and not intended to be re-sold. Poppy seeds, however, can land you in jail.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 22:35
So, my friend just responded, there's a new toll-free number, 600-570-001. The Arabic language support line has the same number as posted above, 050-567-9525; it's managed by a Syrian lady named Eman.
1987
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Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 20:07
Breastfeeding Friends offer a hotline seven days a week from 10am to 10pm, in three different languages. Arabic 050 5679525 English 050 8684417 Urdu 050 9819270 They are also on Facebook, sharjahbabyfriendlycity, and on twitter, @shjbabyfriendly
1987
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Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 19:59
Yes, there is a phone number for Breastfeeding Friends Sharjah, part of the Sharjah Family Council. One of my expat friends in Sharjah volunteers to take phone calls for their hotline :) They offer telephone support in Arabic, English and Urdu.
1987
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Latest post on 02 November 2014 - 22:35
Haha never too old! Buy him one and make him use it! ? ha lol..can picture it now...and what the f... am I supposed to do with this ? I shave, don't I ? Haha, my DH is the same! OP, there are reliable reviews on beautypedia.com for men's grooming products :)
1987
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Latest post on 02 November 2014 - 22:02
I bought a bokashi bin from Greenheart Organic Farm (free home delivery!), and as Greenheart was out of stock of the bran, I ordered 2 kg Bokashi bran from Amazon UK. Started using it 4 weeks ago. I keep my bin on the back porch as I dont like the smell of the bokashi liquid. My plants are beginning to respond well to the diluted liquid! Thanks for the tips on the maggots/ worms.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 November 2014 - 21:53
I used an Ergo carrier with DS1 and DS2. Brilliant! Very adjustable. As the kids got heavier, I would pass the carrier to DH, and with a few quick shoulder strap adjustments, he would be ready to carry them. I liked that I could do a back carry as they got older, which was very secure while travelling, and personally more expedient than pushing them in a stroller. I'm curious about the new mesh styles.
1987
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 02 November 2014 - 21:42
I've only tried a slice of their carrot cake, and didnt like it. The icing had a strong artificial butter flavor. Two other low-cost bakeries for cakes are Mister Baker ( my in-laws love their cakes!) and Caesar's Bakery. I've had 2 yummy birthday cakes from French Bakery recently, their vanilla icing tastes like custard powder. Might be worth inquiring.
1987
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Latest post on 01 November 2014 - 23:26
This thread has given me a huge push - towards the nearest cinema screen. What show/ time would you ladies recommend, to avoid the possibility of any lurkers/psychos/creepy guys? I ask because, if you are completely alone, and there is even one nutter around, thats too many, isnt it! Has anyone ever encountered a problem, and any advise if something wierd happens? We should make a blind date, all the EW ladies, and turn up at the cinema at the appointed time. But no intros/ numbers/ chatting etc just watch the movie 'together' and disperse afterwards - can discuss the movie on here later, lol.Redrec, I would join you! Daytime shows are most convenient for me as kids are safely away at school lol.
1987
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Latest post on 01 November 2014 - 20:32
Jealous in Jumeirah. Suppose I should be careful what I wish for. Our street floods something fierce when it rains a lot. It's been raining in my part of Jumeira for the past 40 min. Big fat drops of rain, lightening, thunder :)
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:49
Thx!
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:47
Hi, I thought I'd update this thread with my Bur Dubai experience. After my dentist appt, I had a mosey around the building and found a salon called Beautiful Times. I walked in, and after being satisfied with the hygiene and lighting of the salon, told them which services I wanted, and the owner offered me a Dhs 30 discount on the total bill, still leaving me with a price that is more than 50% less than what my favorite Satwa salon currently charges. I returned the next day, using the Metro. I was waxed by two beauticians, but unlike my previous similar experience at Raneem salon, they were relatively gentle and thorough. Towards the end, one of the beauticians left to set up her station for the pedicure. I instructed her to not cut my cuticles, and she obliged. It was a really good pedicure, and overall the beautician was gentle. Apart from a few patches of skin that got torn off due to the waxing (I have super sensitive skin), I was really happy with the service provided and would return. I was charged Dhs 140 for: waxing full arms, full legs, underarms, and a basic pedicure (no polish).
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:32
Tundra, could you pls post Bladerunner service's contact details? Thx
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:30
Hi Braveheart, Not a good idea in Dubai. Once your cooked meat has cooled to room temp, it's best to store in the fridge until dinner time. Even with the a/c on in your kitchen or house, I wouldn't risk it ;)
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:12
If you have the time/ are up for an adventure, the Iranian nuts and spices shops on Al Suq street in Bur Dubai opp the abra station and wooden shaded Bur Dubai souk (a short walk from the Al Ghubaiba metro station) stock bulk candy. I have seen Turkish gummy bears/ gummy colas sold for Dhs 16/ 1 kg bag (in the first, farthest shop on corner of Al Suq street and Street 34). There's a shop that is in the middle of Al Suq Street that sells big chocolate coins, choc seashells, choc candy rocks, etc in bulk bins at good prices. My kids tried a few pieces and they really liked them.
1987
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Latest post on 26 October 2014 - 13:00
Have you tried the warehouse stores of the local Brabantia agent, AA and Sons? They have one warehouse in Barsha, off Um Suqueim Street, just before the Intercoil mattress store, and one store in Bur Dubai opp the abra station. Both carry items not stocked in Spinneys, Geant, etc.
1987
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Latest post on 20 October 2014 - 18:56
Hi Veenz and Horizon Mum2, I'm planning to be in Bur Dubai later this week for a dentist appt, so I'll be in the area and need some basic grooming done. Can you pls recommend a few salons that you have visited and been happy with?
1987
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Latest post on 20 October 2014 - 18:51
I was selected by the class teacher.
1987
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Latest post on 20 October 2014 - 17:02
Flight to Malaysia is approx 6 hrs. We bought a great deal from Malaysian Airlines during the summer for the upcoming Winter Break (flights only), 1 week in Langkawi at the Andaman Hotel (direct thru hotel) and 1 week in Kuala Lumpur (direct thru hotel, plus we are Shangri-La Golden Circle members). My kids are 4 and 6. DH and I have stayed at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru in Sabah (eastern island 1hr flight from KL) pre-kids, and would come back with kids as they have lovely facilities. Their sister resort, Shangri-La Rasa Ria has an orangutan sanctuary onsite and is a bit pricier for that.
1987
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Latest post on 20 October 2014 - 16:47
Silvstet, I think Miu Shanghai has a voucher in Entertainer Family book :)
1987
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Latest post on 20 October 2014 - 16:40
FYI Cafe Bateel doesnt accept Entertainer vouchers for breakfast
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 01:45
My kids' school has Tues and Weds off.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 01:31
Catch a re-run on BBC Lifestyle ;) Total food p*rn!!
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 01:22
Strange yet absurdly skilled "Glamour Cakes" host.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 01:21
Shaheenam, I would heat in a sauce pan, apply with thin metal spatula and remove with fabric strips. I've tried using supermarket sugary hair remover as a sugar paste ball, and most of the time, it doesn't end well. Heating in a microwave would over-heat the sugar molecules and you will end up with a very bad burn. The best heating gadget for sugar/honey hair remover is an electric incense/ pot-pouri/ bukhoor warmer, as it keeps the paste heated at a steady, low temperature.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 01:13
Pls provide more details Theodora.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 00:55
Some brands of "spring roll" wrappers are thicker/ sturdier than others. Sunbulla, Al Karama and Switz are thicker than KG Pastry. I've used egg roll wrappers in the States (usually bought from the Chinese supermarket) and spring roll wrappers here, without filling bursting out while frying. BTW, to oven-fry, preheat a liberally greased metal baking sheet at 400F/ 200C. Brush each item liberally with oil on all sides, then place in oven. Keep an eye on items and turn as necessary with tongs. Definitely prevents burst wrappers.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 00:41
My Qur'an teacher at Princess Haya Ctr is employed by Ministry of Islamic Affairs. She might be able to find out from them when the English language classes are scheduled at Masjid Al Rahim in Marina.
1987
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Latest post on 18 October 2014 - 00:27
To avoid it, you can always say you're expecting a baby mid-school year! I've been class mum twice. I tend to greet parents and nannies during school drop off and pick up, and ask my children the names of all their classmates and their particular friends. The first year was as terrible as Daza describes. I had a disgruntled parent who would lecture me 35 min at a time on how terrible the school was, how they weren't caring for her child, etc. Thankfully she withdrew her child from the school after 3 months. Lots of chasing after parents to pay for class gifts, attend coffee mornings, attend afternoon playdates in the park. DH kept asking why my SMS bill had skyrocketed! (Because HALF of the mums didnt check their email, then complained about missing out!!!Argghh!!) There was the mum who wanted every child in the class to purchase a custom-made outfit for UAE National Day from her friend's tailoring business (Dhs 250 each, with the specific year embroidered on garment), to which i smiled and said, "How cute, but no thanks." Ultimately, there was one mum who attended every coffee morning and playdate, and our kids were friends so it worked out well. The funniest incident was calling up and reminding parents of the school bake sale. "What, there's a bake sale in 3 days??" "Yes, I can donate a cake but my DH's bakery only bakes cakes containing nuts..." (School has strict no-nut policy.) However, 19 out of 20 parents baked and donated something for the bake-sale, and eventually they all paid up for class gifts, with one parent donating floral bouquets and chocolates from her business. I've never had to assist teachers on class trips. The most valuable part of becoming class mum was that I knew every mum's phone number.