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ccdoha

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EW GURU
Latest post on 15 March 2011 - 12:54
I know that this is not the case with Disclosure Scotland in the UK because I have used them when I moved from the US to UK and both times I did (2002 and 2009) this they did not need any info from the US, same for DH :) I know there are a couple places that do CRB type of checks so I guess they are different
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EW GURU
Latest post on 15 March 2011 - 10:32
LOL I was just logging on to reply to my last thread about Volvo promotions because I just received another email from Volvo saying they have added to their promotions, etc etc...then I noticed at the bottom of the email it says "We would appreciate it if you would forward this email to friends, family and work colleagues…if they buy because of your recommendation we will pay you!" LOL - I certainly did notice this before on the last email, and I certainly DID NOT post because of that! he he he I just think it is so amazing that a company actually COMMUNICATES with you! I don't have a volvo but I would certainly recommend buying one!! he he he
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EW GURU
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 18:43
I only started to doubt they get to keep it because DH said that surely the guy at the gas pump has to turn in that BIG WAD of cash each night at the end of his shift. As in, DH doubts the machines or gas station owners take a reading and then count the money and give the attendant the left overs! I'm afraid he's probably right. When I think about it, I used to tip the grocery bagger at C4 but once I was sure that the checkout girl called someone over as I walked away because of it... I wish I knew, I have tried to ask the guys at the pump but they don't understand me :(
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EW GURU
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 00:12
I'm not sure if this is correct but I found it on their www under pathology and laboratory medicines... http://www.ahlihospital.com/index.php/pathology-and-laboratory-medicine/services/ Opening Hours: Saturday to Thursday 7:00 am to 11:00 pm Reception: +974 4489 8474
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EW GURU
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 00:04
Just a bit of advice - I would go ahead and back up all of your data onto an external drive that way if the tech recommends a format/reinstall (erases everything) you are ready for them to do it right then and there and do not have to pay/wait for another visit :) Also, have all of your reinstall cd's ready for them (windows, office, antivirus, etc) with any product keys (the codes) that go with them :) <em>edited by ccdoha on 14/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 22:51
I don't know about anything local but I read you can donate via iTunes :) "Apple is also allowing users to donate to the Red Cross using their iTunes accounts. Cupertino said 100 percent of donations will go to the Red Cross; users can donate between $5 and $200 to the effort."
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 22:14
I haven't done/seen hair straightening but I know that Glow just started the Brazilian Blow out. I know it is not a straightener but I understand it makes your hair less frizzy. They have the prices on their wall posts on facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Glow-American-Salon/111009922249205?ref=ts two locations: West Bay and Salwa Road. Phone us at West Bay: 44117652 or 66864220 Or, Phone us at Salwa Road: 44689945 or 66864221 Contact by e-mail: [email protected]
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 22:08
Has anyone gone through this process? I've been offered a job with a company but the are asking me to change my sponsorship to them...their reasoning being that they want to make sure I am committed to them before they want to invest in me. I can totally see their side of things but I want to make sure I know all of the downside before I consider... Pros - Other than salary, they are offering transportation allowance and annual flights. Cons- If I should want to quit/be terminated...does that mean I would have to leave then reapply for sponsorship under my husband? Has anyone heard of this being denied? If I should quit/be terminated and I do switch back to DH sponsorship - IF they do not give me an NOC does that mean I cannot work in Qatar for 3 years? I will need my own exit permit to leave Qatar? I have read before that it could be considered "double dipping" for the company to pay any allowances - what about the annual airfare since I have a US Passport and DH's flight are back to the UK - do you think that is OK? Anything else you all can think of??? TIA p.s. I know I am a bit of a cynic but I really do value this message board and everyone's opinion/knowledge. I feel ALL of the women of EW contribute to it being be such a valuable source and "life-line".
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 March 2011 - 18:07
OK so we just got home and wanted to give my full report. We were there from about 11-4 so I was a bit worried it would be too busy at that time, especially since I had the dog. It was definitely busier today but not too crowded at all. We went far away from anyone and used 2 suv's to make a "wall". Today we had "our men" with us. Honestly I felt better today with more people there than during the week and it was empty. When it was empty and someone get's "too close" it's creepy. Here is what I did today and I think this is what I will continue to do...I wore a tankini and I wore a "wrap" around my bottom half. If I got up to move around I just used the wrap the best I could to cover myself. If I sat down I moved it around to get sun. After awhile, I had to put a long sleeve shirt on anyway just to block the sun. The later it got it seemed the more women I noticed in abaya's so I was conscious of that and I did not want to offend anyone and tried to stay covered. I have been told that basically, if someone makes a complaint, you run the risk of police being called, etc. so I will stick with my swim suit wraps :) Not like I'm fit enough to be prancing around in a bikini anyway!!! ;)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 March 2011 - 11:51
I am going now with the dogs and wore a swimsuit during the week but not sure about the weekend :(
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 March 2011 - 09:05
thanks :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 March 2011 - 09:00
When we went on Monday we did not have any "visitors" but on Wednesday we thought the same about a guy in car that parked too close as we were about to leave anyway. He wasn't brave enough to roll down his window but I did the same, took a pic with my mobile and he tried to "hide" from my view and then left. Today we are going to take our men with us :) It's kind of creepy because I feel a bit vulnerable like I know they know all of our DH's are at work so we're out there on our own. Overall, I still feel safer than say being on a beach alone in Florida and I am desperate to let my dog have a few hours of freedom from time to time. Does anyone know what the "rules" are on swimsuits on that beach? We are of mixed opinions...
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 18:48
See - I knew there was something about you Bechamel!! I really like the XC60 and this promo could have persuaded DH! I am happy with the Jeep but it doesn't have any 'bells or whistles' that's for sure :) but...the roof comes off :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 18:44
thanks so much :) <em>edited by ccdoha on 10/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 12:57
I agree, each company is different!!! We came in Sept and DH had to do the appointment system on the computer at work and pay with his own CC because the company said they didn't have one available that day and it would take more time to get one thus slow the process. I was not concerned about getting an RP for various reasons until after Nov and DH's company did nothing to push it along. When I finally asked them to get it for me, DH had to stay on them EACH day. He has had other colleagues that have taken longer because they work off site and can't chase it up each day. My interpretation of what happens AFTER you go to the medical, get the blood type, get the finger prints, sign the paper and attach a picture is that a couple days later - someone from the company needs to PHYSICALLY go get the RP and they can get it back the next day -as was my case and the latest colleagues case. :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 12:49
oooh, since I'm giving praise, I should mention the nice man at BMW West Bay. Even though there really wasn't anything in our "budget" ;) (except maybe the mini cooper) he was so kind and since we had walked there he even offered to arrange a courtesy car to take us home!!!! I am a believer in you get what you pay for!!! In the states I had a Jeep Liberty and DH a VW and even the service at VW was far superior!!!!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 11:37
We are sort of in the 'middle of it all' by the Four Seasons, construction wise, but I find that luckily they don't seem to work on all the buildings around us at the same time. One day they might be working NW of us and one day SE so the whole apt is never noisy, just some rooms, if that makes sense :) I had heard that they do work all through the night and the guy across the hall from us complains that the building site on his side of the building does but then, he just sleeps in a different room those nights, I haven't had any problems sleeping from building noise, for DH's snoring I have GREAT earplugs that I can only get from the states or amazon!!!! :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:59
had to "shoooo" a few men off a few times yesterday :( I was with 2 other ladies and a total of 4 dogs so none of them were brave enough to get out of their cars but still - a bit annoying when they drive up RIGHT NEXT TO YOU!!! A couple of police trucks did a few rounds as well, first I was worried it was because I "shooo'd" the men off earlier but they seemed to be just doing a patrol. I have to admit, I probably wouldn't go out there alone but that's just me...
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:56
YOU ARE BRAVE!!! Driving around all ready!! hmmm - I don't think the drive from Aspire to West Bay will be fun for DH :( Are you sure you wouldn't consider an apt near DH's work?? I thought apartment living would be very constricting when I first got here but to be honest, I haven't minded it and I have a dog!!! Honestly the apts are so big...on our floor there are only 4 apts Have you even looked at the Pearl...you wouldn't get 3 bedrooms but the VIEW!!!!!!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:48
I would like to know if you get a book on "how to drive" when you take these lessons?? I asked for a book when I got my license and they don't have them at the DL place and the woman told me to go to a driving school to get one. Kind of defeats the purpose to get one after the fact, I know, but I would like to read one, in English, if anyone has one.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:46
"coffee money" so that's what you call it!!! Love it! Whenever I try to tip the guy that washes the car or at the petrol station they just look at me funny, now I will say, "for you, coffee money" :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:42
WOW - We had no idea you could have voice mail! Of course I had voicemail back home but have never called anyone with voicemail here! NONE of DH's colleagues have it! Thanks for the info!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:38
Just to clarify, as I understand it, with the new system only the person on the company sponsorship (DH) needs the appt in the system. Our experience for DH was less than 4 weeks and I think it was only that long because we came at peak season (september). The new system does not require the spouse (me) to have an appt. The spouse just goes to the medical place, once the medical place puts you in the system the company can enter your blood type and then as soon as you get your finger prints, you company should be able to submit your paperwork and pic and RP should only take a day or two. My whole process was very quick - just a couple of days waiting for each step to show in the system and then once I signed the form and the company submitted the paperwork I got the RP back the next day. My husband helped a colleagues and his wife last month and they were the same, once she did the fingerprints it was just a couple of days before the RP is in hand.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 10:30
@kim, if you email Trevor below and he will send you a comprehensive list of everything they have preowned :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 00:36
Marhaba Fanar ( Qatar Islamic cultural Center) is holding Arabic language Classes for non- Arab speakers. For all levels: 1, 2,3,4,5. The classes start on April the 3th. For two months. Requirements copy of ID card two photo (passport size ) deposit fee of QR 300 For admission &enrolment, queries please contact: Tel: 4250175, (Gents). 4250172 / 289 (ladies) Working days: Sunday to Thursday, from 7:30 am - 1:30 pm 5:00pm - 8:00pm [email protected] Muhamed Elhassan Fanar, Education Center Phone: +974 44250 175 Fax: +974 44250 161 [email protected] http://www.fanar.gov.qa ___________________
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 00:32
voicemail - on your mobile?? who knew?? Please elaborate... As for Qtel, DH and I went in a couple of weeks ago and asked them to explain the data usage on our bill...the guy said we should download an app for that as its "so complicated" even he didn't understand it :(
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 00:30
How is the villa hunt going?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 00:24
My shipment was lucky enough to arrive the week before EID so you can imagine...it was fine though because our place wasn't ready anyway, except for the fact that I went back to London for EID (Nov) with only the clothes I brought to Doha in September - needless to say I was freezing in the UK!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 00:20
Well, we went to every dealer in town I think!!! I think the used Land Rover dealer had to be my least favourite. The sales man ACTUALLY told us "well, the car sells itself..." I think not as we did not buy it! I absolutely loved the guy at Honda, I think his name was John Go. He was sooo nice, too bad Honda didn't have anything we were after because I would have loved to have bought my car there! Volvo has been the most professional as far sending me an email of all of their used cars, following up, keeping me updated with promos and even car events. In the promo I think you can get a new XC60 for about 2000QR /mth which I think is a nice deal!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 23:09
Ahhh, I see! Well that works out then! :) Good luck with work and all!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 22:19
First - I do not have a live in maid, I just don't need one but... I can't imagine being somewhere new and not having phone access :( I think the package should include what you FEEL is right. I think your DH's idea of paying her a lower amount first is acceptable, I would just be sure to explain this will increase based on performance (and overall reliability and attitude) in say 3 months...so she has some incentive. We are lucky to have an experienced woman come to clean for just a few hours but I'm scared when she uses my Dyson even though DH showed her how to use it :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 22:01
IMHO, I am not being naive but I think that if you are clear with your expectations about the partner, etc. it is not very likely that you will have issues about the partner hanging about. Again, not being naive, but I feel that in general, workers here are too "afraid" of getting in to trouble to risk doing anything. Of course 'go with your gut', just trying to put you at ease a bit about being in a new place :) Having said that, are you paying her directly or through the school? Technically, she is not allowed to legally work for you as you are not allowed to work for anyone other than your sponsor. So I am afraid it is kind of pointless to attempt to "formalise" anything. As for the partner, you have to ask yourself - how is he even in the country?? I'm probably going to get blasted for this but I just feel a bit concerned about having someone who works with children all day, probably 7-2,having the energy to work more hours with children! And she's not allowed to have a "break" by popping in a DVD or something...just saying. I don't have kids but.. many many moons ago, I worked as a nanny (I am sure that others would agree) and sometimes - you just need a DVD break. Would it be OK for you to say that you prefer she do activities with your child but an occasional 30min dvd break is OK that way she has the option. I would think that it would be "better/safer for everyone" if she has the option :) I understand that you are paying her to do a job but I would think it would be "better" for you boy to be enjoying a movie than a crabby nanny some days :-) IMHO - I think you are better off with the live in option and a car service or changing nurseries. Best of luck :-)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 15:16
Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) says...Wakra Beach is fine as long as you avoid the busiest times of the day. Weekday mornings you will find other expats there with their dogs though try to avoid the weekend :) <em>edited by ccdoha on 08/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 15:09
AAAAARRRRRGGGGGHHHHH thanks for the info The only thing I saw out there that looked like it could do any harm was a dead bird. I will ask on QAWS fb site. <em>edited by ccdoha on 08/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 14:59
http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=124254 Is this the thread? I searched western doctor (all words) as I remembered there being a bit of controversy...:)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 14:05
As I sit here looking at mine - unmatching colours and unmatching lengths - I had asked this awhile ago and had some replies :) http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=136433
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 14:01
I was honestly at the beach yesterday and I looked at one friend and said "WOW you're getting red" and I looked at my other friend and said - "WOW you too" all the while thinking how LOVELY it was and that I was fine, didn't even get the sun cream out!!!!! It was such a gorgeous day!! Got home, called DH on Skype and he said "WOW - you're red" Even my lips feel burnt, but that's another story. OK - other story So a few weeks ago in the desert with the top off the Jeep - our lips got totally burnt so I went to Boots (not sure if it is a "real" boots in Landmark) and bought lip balm(lip salve) that said it had SPF. It looks just like the other ones I have -same package. So the next day I was in City Centre shopping, I'm at a counter paying and think hmm, my lips are dry, I'll use some of my new lip balm for now (even though I don't need the SPF). Meanwhile the guy at the counter has just watched me put on my lip balm (wait) There I go, strolling through the mall. I get all the way to the other end at Mango, the sales guy is giving me the 'we don't really do size 14 here lady' look and I proceed to grab at least 10 items to try on because I'm feeling optimistic... I get in the dressing room, thinking I might buy something even if it doesn't fit to show that guy he should be nicer to customers - I look in the mirror - my lovely new SPF lip balm is the type that is WHITE and I look like I just left my post of lifeguard at the local pool. Looking back - I guess the sales guy was actually giving me the 'we don't sell to ladies in white lipstick' look edited by ccdoha on 08/03/2011 <em>edited by ccdoha on 08/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 13:41
OK, I was wanting to order trousers from gap and old navy but I didn't want my $40 trouser to wind up costing me a fortune in junk mail ;) I order all my bras from Victoria's Secret and I know they are notorious for sending catalogues!!!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 13:34
HA! I have a spare room and DH is away - come to my house for a slumber party!!! :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 13:32
I saw the memory foam type toppers at Hyatt Plaza in the big home store. I want to say that they were about 600 or 700 qr for a US King size
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 13:16
I am not sure if all the newbies know about Wakra Beach. What a fantastic place to take your dog! I went on Friday around 10 and there were not too many people although it seemed to be getting busier around noon. Yesterday around the same time it was empty! I had been going out to the mangroves but I find Al Wakra to be closer and easier to get to. If anyone wants to go this week (or whilst I am not working) I would be happy to show you where it is :) edited to give directions If you head on the road past the airport towards AL Wakra, as you are approaching AL Wakra, the first r/a you go straight at the second r/a (just past the KFC on right) you go left You have to go all the way to the end of the road and do a uturn then a right Go down that road (houses will be on your left and dunes on your right) till you see a way to go off road It is really simple but I see where it sounds complicated. Again, I am more than happy to show anyone where it is. I know how important it is to take my dog out when I can so I am MORE than happy to show you where it is. <em>edited by ccdoha on 08/03/2011</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 13:00
Oh no, I didn't mean that I have had it happen, I was just wondering if it happened! I've been too afraid to order anything because I wasn't sure if that happened a lot ;)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 12:58
Key words: villa cleaned before you move in! Make sure you know if you will need to have your villa cleaned before you move in - I mean a deep clean! We relied on the management to clean our place for us and then our stuff arrived, needless to say it was not "move in" clean as you would expect back home. Then it is a pain to really clean once all your boxes are here. If you search the forum, others have posted companies that they have used and recommend. Also, I would agree 2-3 days to clear customs and then probably a few days for them to organise delivery. Good luck :) BTW - where are you staying temporarily?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 23:22
I opened the shop and ship - ($35 USD) but does anyone get junk mail in them that winds up being shipped and then you have to pay for that? (sorry to hijack)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 22:57
WOW - I was beginning to think... Anyway, DH is away this weekend on business so the following week would be best. Should we try to organise something tentatively for the 18th? It is the weekend of the MotoGP and Mother's Day weekend (UK) but I don't think we have definitive plans for the MotoGP yet...or should we try for the 25th? The more the merrier :) I have heard the LR2 is great in the desert, we looked at buying a used one but the sales man was such rubbish we gave up! I can tell you that it is getting hot out there, I went to Al Wakra Beach today and didn't realise how hot it is and I'm afraid I am suffering tonight as I am burnt!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 16:03
thanks sega
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 16:02
I am only really wanting it to stream tv from the computer to the TV. I haven't read anything about it and I only know what DH has told me in his "sales" pitch :-) At the moment, I watch ZERO tv because nothing is on that I like. DH downloads shows to his laptop but ends up watching them sitting at the table instead of using the USB on the TV. I feel that if we had the Apple tv I might be more inclined to download shows and then watch them on the TV. I need to let my brain veg every now and then.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 00:51
and if you have a MAC and AppleTV, you don't need the cables - he he he we don't have this yet as we don't have enough TV to watch yet but I feel a solution coming soon!!!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 00:43
I am curious as to your thinking on choosing the British Curriculum as opposed to US or IB? Just curious ;) I am wondering what it would be like to transition back to the US curriculum should you return to the US?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 00:35
Maybe you can have a doula with you? Even if you feel you don't need one, it is nice to have someone at your side. I've been told that at Hamad and they are allowed at births (I assume they are allowed in at a c-section birth as well). I was also told as CSH mentioned that if you are high risk or there are any complications you will be transferred to Hamad anyway.