Catawba KSE | ExpatWoman.com
 

Catawba KSE

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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 19:22
When you get to the by-pass road you join it on the right going to Abu Dhabi. Stay in the right lane and very very shortly there is an exit where you do a u-turn and go under the 611 to head towards Sharjah. This is much quicker than going to the round about. Takes only a minute or two.
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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 19:20
We have been watching over the months, whilst going horse riding to EEC, being built...what a great idea achieved! It really is.....with so many things that stalled and failed here with the recession, spending even a little on a cycle path could have been a non-starter. Thankfully they did it and the number of people that ride on weekends, be it competitive or social, is fantastic. Try it....you'll like it! (what was that commercial?)
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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 19:03
I typically see them at C4. No luck with C4. quote'> This place is so hit or miss!!!!! For months you see what you need and then it disappears from shelves all over the city not to appear again for ages! (I can complain......I started the nice thread on the cycle path so I'm now 'dubai' neutral!) This is why when I cleaned out my cupboards the other day I had like 10 tins of some stuff that I rarely use. I'm afraid of never finding it again (or remembering which place I did)....
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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 18:37
I read somewhere that it is 50km but that must be one way because it is at least 100km loop (when I did 45k today I went only a bit further than the Al Qudra Rd t-junction and it goes way further than that). Kittycat71: no, not the same as the old Nad al Sheba track but that is another great thing they did! That cycle path is lit at night so can ride most times. The one I did this morning starts behind Arabian Ranches. You take Al Qudra road past the Ranches, over the 611 by-pass road and at the 1st round about, the cycle path starts. It parallels Al Qudra road on the left side. When you hit the t-junction at the end of Al Qudra, the path splits and goes right towards Bab al Shams and left out into the desert and forms a loop where they both meet.
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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 17:27
Some children respond to it by going 'hyper' That was my experience! I had given medised to my 1st daughter for medicinal purposes when she was sick with no problems. When she was about 15 months I flew with her on my own to the US and she didn't sleep the entire way. On the way back I gave her Medised.......it was a nightmare. She was overtired and the medised just exacerbated everything. You just don't know how your child will react and it might make things worse for you rather than better. I know it is a nightmare on long flights with a child that will not sleep. Every time I had to fly with one under 3 I dreaded it for weeks. Having been through it now with 3 kids I find I just have to rock and sing like crazy no matter how much they try and wiggle away until they fall asleep. Sometimes my arms feel like they are going to fall off but it eventually does the trick. And then I just pray I don't have to go to the bathroom!
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Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 17:18
I typically see them at C4.
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Latest post on 04 November 2012 - 17:14
[Ok so I spoke to a couple of "campers" and they said beach camping should be a good solution as in the desert you get snakes and spiders crawling up to the tents, and when stepping out at night for a number 1, they might be around your tent. :O Any experience?? We've been desert camping about 15 times. I have never seen a single snake or spider (and I have had to get up many times in the middle of the night after a few drinks by the campfire!). Seen a lizard or two but they run as soon as they see you. We saw a scorpian one morning but could just as easily see one in the Ranches. Worst we ever had in our tent was a wasp. People in our group sleep out in the open and never had a single problem. Not to say there aren't things creeping about but chances are low you'll encounter something dangerous and I would not worry about them in your tent and when you go out at night. Take precautions...wear shoes, keep your tent zipped up etc. Actually, one of the things we really like is seeing trails in the morning of the things that creep around at night. They are EVERYWHERE in the morning and the first time our imaginations went wild. The truth is most of them are from beetles (which make surprisingly big trails) and some kind of desert hare thing which leaves what looks like a three-footed trail. Don't let it put you off, camping in the desert is beautiful.
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Latest post on 04 November 2012 - 10:17
I just had a package delivered worth GBP 270, so over 1000, and didn't pay any duty. Maybe it is a bit arbitrary?
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Latest post on 31 October 2012 - 16:12
I emailed Emaar last night. Never got a response from them but they sent pest control over this morning. The guy said it is a community wide issue but that the 'breeding' grounds are in Mirador, Savannah, La Avenida and the golf course where there is stagnant water. They are spraying those areas daily to try and eradicate them. I said no use spraying my garden as it was not the problem. He agreed and said it would only be temporary fix anyway as they would just come back within a day. He had already been to 3 other houses this morning responding to complaints. I asked if they could 'fog' the entire community as they used to but he said this is no longer allowed by the Municipality.
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Latest post on 30 October 2012 - 17:19
My husband has a colleague relocating to Dubai very soon. He has toured several schools and managed to secure a place at both JPS and JAPS for his son (about 10 years old). He likes the feel of both schools and knows they both have solid academic reputations. They need to make a decision in the next day or two so obviously will not be able to visit the schools again. They want as much information as possible about the environment/culture at these schools but unfortunately we are not very familiar with either. Can anyone with a child at either provide a bit of input on your experience? It would be much appreciated as they do not have the opportunity to come back and assess for themselves. Thanks very much in advance.
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Latest post on 24 October 2012 - 19:58
Ohh, what is it? Never heard of it but the more options close to the Ranches the better!
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Latest post on 24 October 2012 - 16:32
We're in Saheel too. They are awful this year. My kids go to the park in the evenings and come home covered in bites. THey are getting them while they sleep as well despite having those Pif Paf plug-ins in each bedroom.
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Latest post on 16 October 2012 - 17:26
Definitely seen women with buggies on the track at Safa Park. Nad al Sheba park is very nice quiet park with plenty of pavements and a track to walk.
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Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 07:47
1847 at Grosvenor House is men's salon/spa.
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Latest post on 10 October 2012 - 10:14
As neither my husband nor I have phones registered originally in our own names-one belonged to a former neighbour-the other to a friend of a friend-both of whom have long since left the country and aren't contactable-what do we do? edited by wuffles on 10/10/2012 Get a new number. That is why they are doing this so that they know who has what number. Wuffles, you don't need to get a new number, you just need to register the number you have under your name, which is what we are all doing. Just take along your passport/ID card as normal. :) No, you cannot re-register a phone if it is not in your name. All our Du services including my phone are under my husband's name and when I tried to re- register it earlier this week they said he had to do it. Or I need a letter from him authorising me to do it with copies of his passport/Emirates id.
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Latest post on 04 October 2012 - 19:34
The fact that a residence law can be so easily implemented shows that a dress code/law can be too. Ah, that remains to be seen doesn't it? Based on comments on other threads it might not be so easy to move people. And while many are of the opinion that employees are easily replaceable, lose multiple valuable members of staff at the same time and it is not just an exercise of replacing bums on seats....
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Latest post on 02 October 2012 - 17:33
You're welcome. Good luck. When the weather is nice camping in the desert or mountains is one of the best things about being here!
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Latest post on 02 October 2012 - 17:30
Yes, Geant. I've been looking for it for ages under its 'forbidden' name without any luck. After 5 years found it at Geant (formerly Le Marche) at AR last week. Called 'moghrabieh'. After I found it I googled it to make sure it was the same thing and there were some great recipes of the same name with chicken I can't wait to try.
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Latest post on 02 October 2012 - 16:33
Where are you based? My DD has been going to Emirates British Nursery in Mirdif since she was 3 months old. The new one opens in Motor City in January and they are accepting registrations now.
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Latest post on 23 September 2012 - 09:28
Try Adventure HQ on the ground floor of Times Square Mall. It is a nice large sporting store and we have gotten many things there for camping.
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Latest post on 22 September 2012 - 19:22
Did anyone go to the Sports City event last year? We are considering going this year but wondered if it is a good atmosphere, crowded, decent food etc. We've always gone to the one at the Grand Hyatt but wondered what other good ones there are in Dubai to try? Anyone recommend other Oktoberfests here?
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Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 19:06
We left from Negombo which is closer to the orphange than Colombo and if memory serves me it took about 2 hours. It rained on the way back so much longer! We have had a lovely tour guide/driver in Sri Lanka if you require one.
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Latest post on 17 September 2012 - 19:08
Early Learning Centre has very nice 3 story wooden house big enough for Barbies. Looks similar to what you have posted and comes with furniture. It is not Barbie 'brand' but we bought one a few years ago for our girls and they use it with Barbies all the time. They were just looking at the current version in the window display last week so they definitely still have them in the bigger branches.
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Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 11:28
We used this company for a day trip and were very satisfied. They do overnight trips with cabins. http://sheesabeach.com/
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Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 09:10
Blimey, a woman tells us about her mum and how things are very hard right now and still people give her a kicking. Cant yesterday just be put down to the straw that broke the camels back? Cant what is fast becoming ugliness stop? I think you are mixing up Neamhai with OP. I had to go back and look myself...similar usernames but not same poster...
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Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 20:06
This is my favourite quinoa dish. I served it to one of the world's pickiest eaters one night....outside in the dark.....he raved about it and when he found out what it was couldn't believe it as he doesn't eat half the things in it! http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Quinoa-with-Black-Beans-and-Cilantro-243392
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Latest post on 06 September 2012 - 16:41
I took my daughters once. Afraid I would not go back.
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Latest post on 05 September 2012 - 19:22
Nomad, you brought me to tears. My mom died unexpectedly in June and as hard as it is for me I think more about the loss of my kids not having the experience/memory of such the great Gran she was. Enjoy every teary Granny moment and know that your kids and grandkids are so blessed for you to be here, not matter how teary and cheesy you get! I hope your GD has a lovely first year at school! She sounds like a trooper!
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Latest post on 05 September 2012 - 19:05
Skiingfreak: just in case you have not made an appointment at Gladys or Chi yet, thought I'd give you a bit of info on both so you can choose which suits you the best as they are so different..... I have only had gel done at Gladys so didn't mention Chi in my original response but I go to both salons...just for different reasons. Chi is modern, sleek and all white, quiet and relaxing. Every 6 weeks or so when I want to recharge and need a neck and shoulder massage with my pedicure I go to Chi for the relaxation factor. Price is ok but high for what you can get in Dubai in my experience. The decor in Gladys leaves alot to be desired but it is a buzzy place with lovely Philippino staff. If you don't chat to them they chat happily away amongst themselves. I go here for 'on-going maintenance.' They are much cheaper than Chi (or other in the vicinity of the Ranches like Tips and Toes) so every 2-3 weeks I go for a pedicure. You can get a mani and pedi for the price of one service at most other named salons and it is just as good. I find that if you avoid peak times they don't concentrate on getting you in and out during a time slot but work as long as it takes to do the job (eg I went the other day for a pedicure after 2 months having had none and they spent well over an hour making sure I had a great pedicure for alot less than most salons charge for normal 45 minute pedicure. So, if you have not made an appointment.......Chi is upscale and serene with a price to match and Gladys is a bit less sleek but welcoming and cheap. I'd recommend either depending on circumstances. Hope you have a great experience at either! edited by Catawba KSE on 05/09/2012 <em>edited by Catawba KSE on 05/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 05 September 2012 - 08:24
Gladys in Motor City does them. They are in the next major building past Spinneys on the lefthand side (same building Building Blocks). 044541285
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 18:37
Most often I am able to find them in Lulu.
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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 15:46
At Just Kidding there is a line of linens called something like 'Essentials.' They have pillow cases for small pillows that have the Dubai skyline embroidered on them (in blue, pink or UAE flag colors). My memory is failing but last time I was there I might have seen other items with same skyline. For expat babies born in the UAE I think it is a cool keepsake to have when they return home. ETA: just found them on-line: http://www.justkidding-me.com/en/eshop/product,justessentials-skyline-pillow.html <em>edited by Catawba KSE on 03/09/2012</em>
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Latest post on 30 August 2012 - 10:53
Definitely flank steak at C4. As mentioned below it is called bavette. There is usually sliced bavette ready packaged in the meat display. I just show them that and tell them I want a whole one and they get one from the back. I have never tried for brisket but at C4 they do have a picture of cow hanging up with all the cuts on it so could try pointing and asking.
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Latest post on 29 August 2012 - 07:52
Limetree Cafe has nice ones.
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Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:51
I have short hair and blonde highlights as well. I've tried about 7 places since moving to Dubai. Have been to Ali at Salon Ink twice now and am finally happy. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her. New salon is very nice too.
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Latest post on 25 August 2012 - 21:38
Hi Tara. I had my third and LAST a year ago. Am also in Arabian Ranches. I have everything from bouncy chairs, to car seats to monitors to pumps to bumbos etc etc etc. Some stuff I'm selling but lots of stuff I would just be happy to go to a good home.....just let me know what you need. Congratulations, KSE
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Latest post on 19 June 2012 - 08:19
Dr. Omaima at Medicentre Motor City is very good and has a lovely manner with my kids. Practiced in Boston.
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Latest post on 12 June 2012 - 11:25
I have a Polar watch I would sell if you are interested. It comes with a heart rate monitor (never been used) and foot pod (which measures your distance). Still have receipt, manual etc. I used it for about 5 months when I was training for half marathon and it was great. I upgraded to a Garmin because I wanted GPS and I love it but if it is too pricey then the Polar does just about anything you need just without GPS.
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Latest post on 05 June 2012 - 19:22
I operate best on 8.5 to 9 hours. DH thinks it is way too much but we are just wired differently. He can exist on a lot less during the week but let me tell you on the weekend he makes up for it! The logical part of me says we just take our rest at different times; the illogical part of me argues with him every weekend when I ask for one morning to 'sleep' in, while he gets the other. He always thinks he should get both as I go to bed so much earlier. I always tell him it is a choice and if he chooses to stay up late that's his problem and he still has to take a morning getting up with the kids. It is not so much about sleep but just having one morning a week when I don't have to get up dependent on someone else's needs.....not the baby crying, not the older kids arguing or asking for breakfast...I can just lie in bed and wait until I am ready to get up, whether I spend that time semi asleep, reading, playing on the Ipad...
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Latest post on 03 June 2012 - 20:39
I found a recommendation from awhile ago on EW for a man name Erickson Tissera (search and you'll find a couple threads). We used him in April and would happily use him again or recommend him to our friends. He was reliable, patient, spoke english well, didn't push an agenda to take us places where he would get commission etc. He has a large clean van. http://www.srilanka-erickson.com/index.html If you have not been to Sri Lanka, all I'd say is 'safe' driving in Sri Lanka is relative and driving with anyone is a hair raising experience. I think Erickson is as good as you get but we all still fought over who had to sit in the front seat and actually see what was happening!
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Latest post on 31 May 2012 - 18:44
A good thing to do is always make note of the taxi number BEFORE you get into the taxi. They are always visible on the outside. That way if they have ripped that bit of the sticker off you still have the number if there is a problem. I almost always call my husband as soon as I get in and tell him in a loud voice the taxi has picked me up and how soon I estimate I'll be wherever I'm going so that the driver knows that someone knows exactly where I am (even if my husband doesn't answer the call!). I also always ask their 'advice' when I get in such as 'do you think SZR or Al Kahil will be better at this time, I think Al Kahil......' so that they know that I know the way around and don't take me for a ride. Establish as soon as you get in you know what you are doing and tell them immediately and in no uncertain terms you don't want to talk if you think it is going in the wrong direction. They will know who not to mess with. Re: ladies' taxis, I just saw one today. We took one from the airport a couple of weeks ago and the woman driver said that the male drivers are always given fares first (particularly those that appear 'lucrative') and the women drivers only as a last resort or if someone insists. So maybe next time insist.
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Latest post on 29 May 2012 - 18:33
We've stayed here the last two years and it is wonderful. Food prepared by chef is fantastic. The staff catered to any need - anticipating many of them in advance. http://www.southpointvilla.com/spAbbey.htm
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Latest post on 29 May 2012 - 18:24
AussiePup, I have similar goals to you. I want to lose 15kgs gained after three kids. I started 30 Day Shred today. I have to say, it wasn't as bad as I thought after all the horror stories but maybe I will feel it tomorrow! I'm going to do it everyday plus try and ride my bike 3 times a week. I'm going to use Fitday.com to track progress. Although I think I'd benefit from having to go somewhere and weigh in so I can't hide, I know I don't have the time to do so plus I'm leaving for the summer in 31 days (hence starting the 30 day shred today - nothing like procrastination!). If you think you could benefit from an on-line weigh-in I'm sure we could find a way through Fitday or even just email to encourage each other. Let me know if you'd like to. Good luck!
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Latest post on 29 May 2012 - 18:03
A_n_C: Assuming what you need is not really a 'hole' punch that does a hole with scalloped shape but rather a punch that does scalloped edges? If so, I have one that punches edges like a lace doily. We use it to make birthday/holiday cards. How long would you need it for?
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Latest post on 28 May 2012 - 19:25
Sharjah Wildlife Centre is great outing for kids and all indoors so perfect for summer: http://www.breedingcentresharjah.com/Wildlife%20Centre.html
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Latest post on 27 May 2012 - 17:52
You gotta be kidding.....how about instead of going backwards actually moving forward and introducing 'pay at the pump' -- something other countries have had for a decade or two now.
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Latest post on 25 May 2012 - 11:59
It says don't put it in washing machine but I have a 2 prioris that I have been washing in machine for last seven years with no problems. Just dry in the sun.
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Latest post on 25 May 2012 - 11:55
I removed and washed my cabrio fix last week. Very easy. Washed it in the washing machine on gentle. If you don't have manual you can get it online and it tells you how to take it off.
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Latest post on 24 May 2012 - 19:01
Thank you soooooooo Much Catawba KSE. This is really so kind of you to find and write down the recipe here. Really appreciate it. :) and thank you for sharing tips too. No problem. If you have any questions.....just ask. I love to cook and especially recipes from my grandmother who taught my mom, and so me, everything. These are recipes from my childhood so I am happy to help. Just let me know.
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Latest post on 24 May 2012 - 18:31
Took me ages to find Library Distributors and only found it on accident when I was trying to go to Wolfis. If you are on SZR headed to Dubai/Sharjah....take the exit like you are getting off on Al Manara street....but don't actually get off....just keep going straight in the lefthand lane. It will go parallel to SZR and then exit into the service road after Al Manara (eg the second section of the service road after the 1st one with all the car dealerships nearest to MOE). Service road will curve to the right taking you in the opposite direction you were travelling on SZR. Follow the road around as if you want to go back towards downtown Dubai and you will see Library Distributors. Take heed re: hours as someone else mentioned. I know how to get there but everytime I have tried to go it is closed!