Apricot | ExpatWoman.com
 

Apricot

Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 June 2014 - 00:51
I report everything annually. You will find the information you need on the IRS website, do a search for FBAR, where it will tell you the minimum reporting threshold, etc. I calculate my own zakat so doing IRS forms isn't much different. The only values they don't care about, and which you don't report, are personal jewelry and bonds issued by a foreign govt (ie National Bonds). I understand that I haven't answered your specific question, but my general advice is to comply with IRS's new regulations. They have court cases pending across Europe and elsewhere for non-compliance, with hefty fines just the beginning.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 June 2014 - 00:26
I'm another happy customer of Paula's Choice skin care. I use their BHA 1% gel and excellent Resist Super Light SPF 30 sun block and Hydralight Toner. Monthly facials are no longer a must!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 June 2014 - 00:19
Thx for correction Sanddy_Dogg :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 23:16
Aalam Al Khuyoot ("World of Tailoring") in Satwa. These chaps have been very helpful with all my sewing machine, embroidery, hand-stitching and craft needs for ages, but I think a Bernina may require needles from a Bernina agent or re-seller.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 23:08
Yeah, I wonder about that too. I miss Queen of Denial, whose youngest daughter had serious kidney problems. Gee, I follow EW like others follow those long-running soap operas. I used to keep up more with my own relatives' lives...
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 23:02
I've discovered a fair share of dried out gecko CORPSES on the undersides of sofas, under sofa cushions, in between the sofa cushions and the upholstered sofa cover, behind curtains. My living room must be a pleasant place for them to die, seeing as it's sweeped and mopped with Dettol every day...
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 22:51
Unless your child is very independent, I don't recommend E-sports summer camp for a 4 yr old. My DS1 attended at JPS campus at age 4 for 4 days and it was traumatic for both him and me. I was concerned that the children's carers were all teenagers apart from one man and one woman, and that there were approx 12 little kids assigned to each teen. At the nursery that DS1 attended at the time, he would be assisted in the toilet by a nursery nanny, so it was a rude shock for him to have to use the toilet unaided in an unfamiliar environment while being asked to "hurry up". They swim as a group and the little kids are expected to change into swimming suits, then back into dry clothes, by themselves. When DS1 summoned the courage to participate in swimming, he was told off by a 15 yr old girl for being a "slow poke baby" because he struggled with dressing and un-dressing. I was not allowed to pick up my son earlier than the stated pick-up time, which I found baffling. Even though I had pre-paid for the week, I chose to keep my child home on the Thursday. On the Tues and Weds of that week, I visited Blossom and My Gym summer programs right after dropping off DS1 at Esports. A week later, I took DS1 to My Gym where he was cared for by adults in a smaller group and engaged in activities more suited to his age.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 22:28
Cyclone T- vegetarian, likes to cook dal. Daza- likes to cook dal. Abby n Christina: party planner extraordinaire. HorizonMum2: another great party planner. Lively Trish, DesertRose1958, JoyceB, SanddyDogg, Redrec Triangle, Crashing Waves: great sources of advice. A Rancher: bakes great cakes when she's not bonding with her daughters over at-home manicures. Doubting Thomas and Izzy like to stir up the pot then sit back and enjoy the spectacle :) Di@dxb: makes her own Eco-friendly household cleaners, soaps, body butters, sugar scrubs, etc. AnonDubai: walking thru sand in her crocs during school pick up/ drop off. Reads historical and biographical books. Obsessed with finding a pedicurist who will razor off her dead calluses already. Sarahlou1234: SnS's best customer, often found trying clothes in Debenhams and River Island. Also torrent savvy. Beebers: I'm always curious what she will teach us next about nutrition, supplements, skin care, etc as I find her advice valuable. I'll bet she has great, glowing skin. PollyDXb: great advice on salon treatments and eating out. Many great home cooks here, I often save threads as text documents on desktop or save posts to mobile for quick dinner reference.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 22:02
My relative says that RB now uses the 777 Dreamliner plane which is a very comfortable experience.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 June 2014 - 22:00
In my opinion, if you want to do something different, esp in this hot hot weather, try Baskin Robin's ice cream cake, readily available off the shelf :) Beat the heat & enjoy your party!!I prefer ice cream cakes from Cold Stone because the cake sponge is moist and flavorful, whereas the cake sponge in Baskin Robbins is hard, dry and little chocolate flavor. Just picked up a 1 kg chocolate ice cream-chocolate sponge-chocolate ganache cake this afternoon for my family party and everyone enjoyed it :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 June 2014 - 20:55
Hummingbird Bakery makes a yummy chocolate 21cm, 4 layer cake, DH 160/-. Most convenient to collect from their Citywalk branch.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 June 2014 - 16:32
GloriousMorning, sadly the Mary Janes are similar to Sketchers so not suitable for a meeting. I have more formal shoes but they are from a US chain called Footwear Etc that I visit during trips to the States and try on shoes. From there, I like Earthies and Rieker shoes. I also get Clark's from there, and the salesman told me that Clark's distributes wider shoes to the American market. You can also find Gabor and Rieker shoes at the K Corner Outlet in Outlet Mall, but sizes are very hit and miss.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 June 2014 - 16:25
just a suggestion...if you plan to use the limeade thawed, I have used the same amount of concentrated lime syrup from Carrefour in various lime flavored desserts with great results. I find the lime syrup near Robinson's lemon squash. It comes in a tall, metal container with a plastic flip-top lid, made in France, brand starts with T.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 June 2014 - 21:41
The Merrell styles I own are very lightweight. Next in Dubai Mall had lots of little socklets at reduced prices last weekend.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 June 2014 - 21:21
I used the Houdini Strap to solve the same issue and it worked. I ordered mine thru ebay.co.uk with delivery to a UK address. The weight of the Strap holder is minimal so you could probably do direct shipping to UAE without it being too costly.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 June 2014 - 19:28
I have wide and large feet, and I find Merrell shoes to be cut wide and comfortable. I switch between a pair of sandals (with ankle straps) and an athletic version of Mary Janes for everyday wear. you can find Merrell in the Village section of Dubai Mall where all the jeans shops are, and in the local distributor's main shop on Sheikh Zayed Rd, just to the right of Dusit Thani hotel.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 June 2014 - 19:22
The Childrens Garden Jumeira (on Beach Rd in Jumeira 2) and Blossom Nursery (off Al Wasl btwn Um Al Sheif and Manara Rds) offer recommended summer programs.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:41
yes, there is a Debenhams at Deira City Centre, but the best-stocked branches are in mall of emirates and ibn battuta.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:36
At least he gets to say what he and the Queen may privately think, without any backlash towards the rest of the Royal Family, whom the general public seem to be very emotionally invested in.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:23
thanks for idea, janatks.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:19
Based on what my step mum does with her sandwich-maker-style pie maker, I would get some frozen flaky parathas, let them defrost a bit, roll out dough, cut out circles and use that for the crust. Kawan brand (made in Malaysia) is great quality, some others can be dodgy. I've used the frozen wholemeal chapatis as a short-cut way to make flaky giant Punjabi potato samosas, and it tastes great, so that could be another pie dough option.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:14
Avoid Sunbullah shortcrust pastry (black/red packaging) in frozen section!!! It tastes vile and has ruined a few of my home-made pies and quiches.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 21:08
Sebamed makes a decent baby bath soap and Pigeon makes a decent all-in-one shampoo and body wash. Mustela has always been problematic for my kids' skin. For nappy rash, I used Mebo ointment (made from sesame oil and available from pharmacies), Bepanthene ointment, a knock-off Sudocrem found in Carrefour called Bell's Zinc Oxide Cream (pink and white plastic tub) and Desitin zinc oxide cream (original formula). I've seen Desitin at Hyper Panda.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 June 2014 - 20:26
Does anyone know where I can fiind sandalwood powder? Try Al Adil Flour Mill and Spices, they have a bunch of Ayurvedic stuff. There's a branch on Khalid bin Walid Rd close to Carrefour Shindagha (easy to get to from Al Wasl Rd) and a branch in Barsha btwn Seven Sands Hotel and the Ibis Hotel. Probably better to call them before going, most of the staff I've dealt with speak decent English.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 June 2014 - 20:33
Needs to download on an ipad,pref. mystery books such as agatha christie novels,nancy drew etc. also,a doubt.....once downloaded can i read these books in a place where is no internet connection??? Yes, mrsbiju, once downloaded you can read without need for internet connection. most torrent sites have ebook, pdf files.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 June 2014 - 20:29
Yes, Nayls85, Babyshop is the cheapest retail store here for toys. I like their toy sections in Centerpoint Bur Dubai, Mall of Emirates, and Oasis Ctr. The Toy Store, however, has the best and most current range.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 June 2014 - 20:25
Debenhams own brand. They make a leotard/ full body suit that has shorts on bottom and a cutaway on the bust so you wear your own bra underneath. This leotard pulls in your stomach, butt and thighs at the same time into one smooth shape so that you don't get any accidental big bulges between stomach and bust as I've experienced with Spanx. It even has little mesh things behind the shoulder straps to hold in upper arm fat! I tried it on before purchase and bought a size smaller than what I usually wear. It's around Dhs 275, very similar to prices on macys.com or amazon.com for similar items, and much better quality than the similar Maidenform slimming leotard.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 June 2014 - 20:10
MAC does it for approx Dhs 500. I had my makeup done by a MAC employee in my nearest MAC store a few times, then I went the youtube route...
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 June 2014 - 18:54
Waves Swim Academy gives lessons in an indoor pool in Al Mizhar, near Arabian Centre. They employ at least one lady instructor and I've heard good things about her. <em>edited by Apricot on 08/06/2014</em>
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2014 - 23:59
Could you not marry in Cyprus or Lebanon? Both places should be fine for cheaper alcohol, and possibly cheaper flights to/ from other places than Dubai or the Maldives.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2014 - 23:48
Maybe ask a talented local cake decorator to sculpt you Anna and Elsa from fondant? I contacted someone once and she was happy to just make me the fondant cake toppers rather than an entire cake. There isn't a Disney store in Dubai.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2014 - 23:44
I thought they were overpriced (possibly against high rents??). I bought a toner recommended for sensitive skin and it was close to Lancôme/ Estée Lauder prices, whereas in the States, they are priced similar to Avon with plenty of "special purchase offers" to remain competitive with drug-store prices. They ought to re-launch inside Paris Gallery, etc, esp given that the consumer here isn't aware of the brand.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 June 2014 - 23:36
IKEA. My Ozzie friend got hers done by Kitchen Kraft in Deira, just past Maktoum Bridge. If you have a dream budget, Poggenpohl supplied by Kitchens & Beyond, are amazing. Ideally get Bosch, Siemens, Neff or AEG-Electrolux built-in appliances. Nardi are cheap n cheerful and distributed by Jacky's Electronics.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 June 2014 - 18:04
DS1's classmate had a Frozen party in January and her mum is a professional party planner. For the goody bags, they used white paper bags with a single glittery square Frozen sticker attached, plus white glittery ribbon punched through. The party favor was a clear plastic LED moosehead tea light. They covered some of the home interior and garden with white fuzzy sheet, simulating snow, hung icicle-shaped fairy lights, brought in a few white-spray painted tree branches. The cake had fondant Frozen character toppers. They used the official Frozen paper plates and napkins for the savoury food and cake. All guests were asked (on the Frozen invitations) to wear white. The birthday girl wore a simple Elsa dress and silver-white lace over-dress that had been tailored locally.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 June 2014 - 17:53
- be from here - own a good company - be an [i'>asset[/i'> to a wealthy company - work in the government (for a secure job, not for a posh life) edited by Londiamond on 06/06/2014 This is the only part of your post that I agree with, while I know a fair share of locals who are just scraping by (their kids have special needs so ineligible for free gov't schooling and require extra therapy, tutors, etc). DH made the switch from being an asset to a company to starting his own business, and I am thankful he was able to do it. I continue to buy cheap laundry detergent and cleaning supplies, use loyalty cards/ Entertainer coupons where relevant, and buy Dhs 7/ kilo French and Iranian apples from the Union Coop. Jinx25 and Londiamond, petrol prices here are more expensive than elsewhere in the GCC. I take the Metro to visit my budget dentist in Burjuman area, and the only thing I save is time spent looking for a parking space.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 June 2014 - 00:14
Lakeland might stock it if it's an item unique to Britain or one of the Commonwealth countries.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 June 2014 - 00:11
Price range depends partly on where you buy your abaya from. I bought my recent batch from Sweet Lady in Beach Centre since my normal abaya shop, Golden Chance in Satwa, has stopped using the better quality Korean Nada fabric to make abayas. I paid DH 600/- for each black abaya, butterfly style, with considerable amts of all-over black beading and matching shela. I've also had a cheaper abaya recently made at Pardha House in Satwa, just to try it out, but the fabric, cut, etc are clearly inferior.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 June 2014 - 23:01
If it's croissants then Carrefour have frozen uncooked croissants - 6 in a packet for 10dhs - very tasty hot straight from the oven. Even better is the Wewalka croissant dough shelved near the smoked salmon and semi-fresh pasta, bakes up with nice layers and has a faint almond aroma and you can fill it to taste prior to baking.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 June 2014 - 22:55
Also, where can I get Nabisco Nilla Vanilla Wafers. Was seeing the banana pudding recipe. What can I use instead if these are not available here. TIA Choithrams stocks both of these items. do a google image search before you go so you know what packaging to look for.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 16:31
Thanks
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:56
Ehh, still searching for the free activities.......
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:44
All's well that ends well. Nice to know that they made the effort to deliver the package to the office address.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:39
Went to Asma's Collection in Al Nahda, next to Dubai Womens College on Baghdad Street, as recommended by another user here, mrsb., and I really liked their stock, readymade and the unstitched suit sets. They have Gul Ahmad and other brands.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:35
Hurray!! (Am also expecting a package via USPS soon ;))
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:28
I plan to go to the Labels & Laces exhibition on Weds in Emirates Hills, even though I've already bought my Eid outfit. I bought 2 outfits from the same exhibitors last year and got so many compliments when I wore them.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:21
Best Holiday with the family: Hong Kong Going next: Salalah, Oman.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 June 2014 - 15:18
DS1's class mom is collecting cash to buy shopping mall vouchers and she has asked each child to submit an A4 paper on which the child and parent can draw and write a little appreciation note. She plans to bind the submitted papers into a booklet. In previous years I have been the class mom and I usually collect cash to buy Sensasia spa vouchers and Kinokuniya vouchers.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 01 June 2014 - 22:57
Just bought some Seven for All Mankind and Current/ Elliot jeans in the States, both skinny and I am a classic pear shape. Can recommend American Eagle Outfitters, Next, Mavi (Turkish brand), and Old Navy for boot cut, my other favorite style :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 01:39
"Ana Aiza Attagawiz"/ "I want to get married!!!" is really funny. Ultimately I got my English-translated copy from Amazon but it was worth the trouble. The publisher is University of Texas at Austin Press so they explain ALL the Egyptian pop culture references exhaustively (useful if you didn't grow up watching Egyptian movies, listening to Egyptian singers). I didn't like "In the Eye of the Sun" by Ahdaf Soueif, particularly as I had recently gotten married. I really disliked the protagonist AND her boyfriend-later-husband, they struck me as too self-absorbed and emotionally stunted, even with the passage of time. I'm not familiar with Egyptian upper middle class society so I'm not sure how representative the characters were. Re Mahfouz, I got into the whole rhythm of "Palace Walk" until the eldest son raped the elderly maid who had been his father's nanny and his own nanny, one of the most disturbing things I've read besides "Oryx & Crake" by Margaret Atwood, which I couldn't finish. My Egyptian sister-in-law hates Ya3coubian Building, so I didn't bother. "Sand fish" by Maha Gargash (in English) is really good. I found it at Book World and initially thought "Eh, rich girl's vanity project" but then I got hooked on the story, character-development, etc. I would look for an English translation of "The Bamboo Walking Stick" As Saq Al Bambu, by a Kuwaiti author, the plot sounds very interesting, and regarding an issue I have privately mulled over. edited by Apricot on 29/05/2014 <em>edited by Apricot on 29/05/2014</em>
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 27 May 2014 - 21:16
Hang in there and continue to be consistent with the naughty corner, etc. I've done naughty corner in Spinneys :) My 4yr old continues to have episodes of screaming tantrums and I am consistent in response.
 
 
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