Clairehdp | ExpatWoman.com
 

Clairehdp

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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 09:02
You need to make sure when booking that you need the sam person week in and week out. some agencies work like this - others don't. I used Howdra and I always had the same girl and I was able to book her for evening babysitting too.
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 09:00
You can either get back onto the Emirates Road heading towards the airport and take the first turn off for the 66 Dubai/Al Ain Road - Head towards the Dubai direction and as you come under Emirates Road you need to keep right and follow the signs to Abu Dhabi/Jebel Ali on the Emirates Road. It only takes around 5 minutes to that junction. Or.....depending where you are in The Villa you could go out the other way and pop onto the 611 road to Jebel Ali direction and come off at the Al Waha villas and drive up the Al Qudra road with the Polo Club on your left, Arabian Ranches on your right and Motor City on your left.
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:55
Apparently they are not calling owners even if their number is on the dog's collars. That is unforgiveable - surely the easiest thing to do for all concerned is to make that one call......what can we do to make this happen??????........ how crazy. Fantastic news that Guinness is back home!
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:52
Oh just posted this and now seen that they've got her back - ohhhh thanks goodness for that - another happy ending.
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:51
Oh my goodness - I didn't see Guiness request for directions until now...... I know exactly where it is and am very happy to take you there this morning - let me know if you want me to do that.... Looking at this dog it sounds just like hers......it's got a collar on - can no-one get the guys at the municipality to call the number if there is one on the collar..????? surely a dog like this would be chipped. they need to re-check and see if they can hook the dog back up with it's owner and it would be sooo good if it was Guiness. Just another thought - can they call the dog Guiness and see how it reacts?
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:31
I always use Debenhams.co.uk flowers. They do same day delivery too which has been a life saver too many times!!!!! They are easy to use and I've seen a couple of the bouquets and they've been lovely, fresh and gorgeous colours/combinations. Have never ever had a problem with them so would highly recommend. You need to go onto the Debenhams site and look for flowers - it takes you to a different page and there are so many lovely arrangements/bouquets to choose from and you can add chocolates, champagne etc which we have done before and that's been fine too.
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:28
Sending you lots of hugs and good wishes for a successful op and getting your little one back over here full of the joys of Spring xx
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Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 08:27
Oooh this sounds hopeful - I hope she can get down there today and it's a good ending.....
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Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 19:26
I haven't gone to the municipality yet - I've been super busy since my eldest son has the week off. I've got four kids to look after, including twin babies, which is how I lost Guinness in the first place. I keep thinking someone is bound to call. She's a beautiful dog, but the first time they have guests and she jumps all over them incessantly, surely they will want to send her home! Anyways, tomorrow I'm going to call around to all the vets and the municipality and hope someone knows something. Please get yourself down to the Municipality - they tend not to keep the dogs past 3 days - but I'm sure from what they told me that if he's chipped and looks like a well cared for pet they will trace him back to you...... I still think it's best to go down in person - we did and I'm glad I did. Is your eldest child old enough to help you and e mail all the vets? Hope he comes home soon.... xx
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Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 08:12
I've tried Hypnose, YSL, Chanel and Clinique........ and the best one is.....Maybelline ;) edited by Pomegranate on 21/03/2011 Absolutely agree with you on that! I used to work for Estee Lauder and Chanel so always used those brands - then moved onto Lancome - the waterproof Maybelline is the best one I've ever used. Will not change! Went to tell my sister about it and she triumphantly pulled out of her bag the same one!!!!!!!
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Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 08:09
I would say that both rivington and Mango Tree have the best view and the best food but....they are pretty pricey. Mango tree is in the entertainer book though! I would go for More Cafe at the Dubai Mall side or Urbano in Souk al Bahar on the terrace. (think these are in entertainer book too!) If you get an outside table there's always the Meat Company (again in entertainer book) which is consistently good - ask for a table with a view.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 19:16
I'm so sorry to hear the situation that you are in but......you need to leave right now. take the tickets from your embassy. You say you will be worse off in your home country but of course you will not.....if you stay here you could easily be in jail. your children are already out of school with the exception of your eldest - you need to go back and get them into schools in Canada. Do you not have any family member in your home country? Where is the father of the children - is he not sending any money? I think the best thing for you all is to leave and get yourselves all set up again in your home country. What on earth will happen to your children if you are arrested..... You have tried and given yourself time to find a new job but now is the time to be realistic and get yourself and your children home while you can. Good luck
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 16:09
I used City Hospital the other week - early morning dash with a very poorly little girl. They saw us immediately and were excellent. I would highly recommend them - easy drive from AR.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 13:39
The american hospital has a cancer unit. Perhaps you could call them and see if there is anyone there who would be able to give you contact numbers of some support here. I don't know of any as have not had to deal with this over here - we had lots of support in the UK but I'm sure there are groups here that may well be able to help you. Thinking of you at what must be a really hard time for you and I hope you can find the support you need and are looking for.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 10:31
I find sitting close to the stage is better for the little ones. we have done balcony seats only once and it was no where as good as being close to the stage. I suppose it does depend what you are seeing. We were at the guess how much I love you production the other week and we were close to the front and the kids all loved it as it involved them and they could get up and join in - not the same when you are in the balcony.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 09:20
I would also say Wild Wadi for a 4 year old over aquaventure.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 09:14
We lost our cat in Arabian Ranches (we did find her but 10 days later!) I found that there's a central security office and took in pictures and told them there would be a reward - it was sent to all the security guards - they probably have the same in Meadows/Springs. If you ask your security guard he can put you in touch. I also left leaflets with her photo on with the security hut and asked them to make sure that all the gardeners read it. Also maid network is a good resource - especially if there is a reward. Put a picture on Dubizzle lost and found pets. I got a few calls from that. I also hand delivered to every single villa where we live a leaflet with contact details and a picture. she was found thanks to a lady who called saying she thought she had been in her garden - it made us focus our search to a specific area and that night my husband found her fit and well and completely and utterly lost..... Don't give up hope. I also went to the Muncipality vets - they were really helpful and a very nice group of men there who assured me that if a fit and healthy animal is bought in and is clearly well looked after they do everything they can to reunite to their owners. I left a leaflet with them and also posted the leaflet on their noticeboard there. I also e mailed with a picture every vet surgery in Dubai. According to my vets they do call other vets to track down an animal if one is brought in to them. Don't lose heart - he's a big dog and surely someone somewhere will find him. My husband went to the Sharjah pet market too in our effort to find our cat. He met up with 2 vets there who were really helpful. I had to e mail one of them our microchip number - she told my husband that they do spot checks and if a pedigree cat/dog is there they check to see if they are microchipped and do everything to track down owners in case the animal has been stolen. I will see if I can trace the e mail address if you like or it might be worth getting down there just for peace of mind.. I know exactly how you feel but hope that you story has a happy ending like mine did..... edited by Clairehdp on 20/03/2011 <em>edited by Clairehdp on 21/03/2011</em>
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 09:03
I'm pretty sure that Park n shop do them too. I'm also pretty sure I've seen picture cakes in the folder in Geant.
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Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 06:37
For books you can't beat the book people. they have amazing discounted books and book sets. I use them all the time - excellent company. www.thebookpeople.co.uk There are also stores that sell heavily discounted books. I can't remember the names of the stores but I am in the UK later this week and can check them out and let you know their names. WH Smith in the UK usually have buy 2 books and get 1 free or buy one get another at half price offers - always worth checking out their website to see their offers before ordering from Amazon. Bicester Village is well worth a visit. there's another big newish one near Southampton - something like gun wharf quays or something like that I know loads of friends say it's fab but I've not yet been......
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Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 18:27
Ginees cooking classes are excellent post yr e mail and I'll let you know how to contact her
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Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 11:19
Yet another example of where a maid is not deemed to be a human being. Appalling i hope you commented VP. I laughed at her and said she was being paranoid about ensuring the line was drawn and that the maid knew who she was!! Personally, all food and drink should be available to the maids. There must be nothing worse than watching others consume something you are not allowed. But it's interesting that you yourself gave workmen tap water and not bottled water........
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Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 11:15
I would say closer to the 1,000dhs mark too - perhaps 1,200. 1500 is way too much in this early stage considering you are also providing food and clothing, IMO. edited by Pomegranate on 19/03/2011 1500 is minimum for philippino housemaids didn't realise she was sir lankan. Anyway if she's very experienced why not pay 1500 1000 dhs is 200 Uk pounds a month/50 Uk pounds a week/les than 10 Uk pounds a day - surely we can all pay a bit more than that and give these ladies a chance to give their families a better life.
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Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 10:55
I'm interested to know how you reacted to her telling you. I think it's very sad the maid doesn't have the same water as she does. I give everyone bottled water
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Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 10:45
Depends on her experience but I'd start her on 1500
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 19:41
Be careful with a home swap - it's fine if you own the property but if you are in a rental property you may well find that you can't do that in keeping with your lease.....
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 15:30
Closest villa compunds to DESS would be silicon oasis Cedre Villas. Really? I would have thought villa compounds in Jumeirah would be much closer....
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 15:29
Always better when the teacher sits on him rather than us poor mothers having to do it!;) Absolutely - it's liberating!!!!!!
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 15:20
Sounds just like my 7 year old - comes up with the most amazing excuses - fact is - he CAN do it but doesn't enjoy it. I think it's true of most of the 7/8 year old boys I know - they'd far rather be on the football pitch or computer!!!!! A really good teacher will help with this. I've seen huge improvements since we decided that the teacher would come down on him like a ton of bricks!!!!!!! What the teacher sat on him? No!!!!! She's on at him and boy can we see a huge improvement. I think she's worn him down!!! He's loving it now and can see that he can do it and is pleased with his work now. Love that I don't have to be on at him all the time now!
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 15:16
I don't think I'd go to Oman at the moment. Heard that Interconti and Shangri la were cut off this week with protesters. I'd go to Le Meridien Al Aqah or Hilton Resort and Spa in Ras Al Khaimah both hotels are fantastic with young children.
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 11:52
I love the stuff by the White Company. My little girl loved the pyjamas she got send from there - beautifully gift wrapped from one of her aunties. also love the picnic pack on there at the moment - pefect for a little girl to play make believe picnics with her toys http://www.thewhitecompany.com/productdetails.aspx?Id=2000129&ItemNo=PCUYG&SelectedItem=PCUYG&gf=1 If you go onto the early learning site you can put in girl age 3 and they come up with suggestions. Both of mine always loved new dvds for their birthdays too. another big winner in our house was a blackboard and chalks at that age - they still use it now.
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 11:46
Sounds just like my 7 year old - comes up with the most amazing excuses - fact is - he CAN do it but doesn't enjoy it. I think it's true of most of the 7/8 year old boys I know - they'd far rather be on the football pitch or computer!!!!! A really good teacher will help with this. I've seen huge improvements since we decided that the teacher would come down on him like a ton of bricks!!!!!!!
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 10:17
Pablosky have good ones. Expensive though! Check with the uniform section of Magrudys to see if they have any shoes - they used to but maybe they have some lurking in a cupboard! <em>edited by Clairehdp on 18/03/2011</em>
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 10:16
I think Dubai lacks two fundemental things: the right to a 'green card' after a period of time and better housing (more spread out, larger gardens, more affordable etc). I think if Dubai had this, then we would consider staying here. Nobbles, I find that houses here are much bigger and more affordable than London. It depends on where you want to live. If you want to live in say, Mirdif area, houses are HUGE(comapred to London) and prices are very reasonable. You get a big 3 bed villa for 85K there. But if you look at Lakes, EMirates hills, those areas are more expensive but you have the beautiful landscaping, added security etc. You cant compare a major city like London and New York to a tiny city like Dubai, of course the houses will be smaller in a metropolis. I would rather live in a beautiful 200 year old property that has oodles of character than a square sand box that will only last the next 10 years because the build quality is so shoddy. Dont even get me started on Spain, I cant even think of a more depressing country to visit, full of criminals and waiters on heat. edited by our souls on 18/03/2011 OS - didn't have you down as a Magaluf madam! You are clearly going to the wrong part of Spain - there are some gorgeous areas of Spain with no waiters on heat! Don't know about the criminals but where we have a place is lovely, very very spanish, hardly any English spoken - love it!
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 07:44
I'm the nightmare one in our house always awake at 5.30 every day!!!!! I get excited when one of the kids wakes up cos I've got someone to talk to!!!!! Luckily for me my little boy always wakes early and we have a lovely chat in the mornings we leave daddy and little girl to carry on sleeping as they both seem to have our share of the sleep gene!
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 07:40
La verandah at jbh great location on the beach, good pizzas, relaxed but good service. P f changes our kids ask to go there good kids menu excellent service kids get activity sheet with crayon packs they love it there Bubbalicious brunch - amazing for adults and kids. Great kids zone there and petting zoo Arabian ranches golf club lovely setting on the terrace overlooking the golf course. Super food consistently good. Do lots of family events too kids are always welcome Rivington grill superb location for a view of the fountains we go for a special treat early booking and the kids love it and the staff have always been very good with the kids (but they are on best behaviour promise!) Spice island brunch is wonderful. Kids have own area and can decorate cakes to take home, watch a movie, have their face painted...etc....etc
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Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 06:17
If you have been dosing him with calpol or similar and the temp is not coming down and is still at 40 I would bundle him in the car and take him to a&e. I took my little girl to a& e at city hospital in the middle of the night a few weeks back and they were superb. If the temp is not responding then that's high and needs investigating. edited by Clairehdp on 18/03/2011 <em>edited by Clairehdp on 18/03/2011</em>
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Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 16:27
There's no way I'd drive from Springs/Meadows to Mirdif everyday - it's a long long way. You would be far better looking at The Villa, Silicon Oasis, Falcon City, Arabian Ranches, Green Community at Motor City and Victory Heights - much easier run down the Emirates Road. If it was me I'd be seriously looking at The Villa as the journey will only be 15/20 minutes and they are gorgeous villas and a new community.
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Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 12:52
Love it!
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Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 12:47
Shaf if I were you I would be prepared....... get the calamine lotion in and I was recommended to use Fenestil syrup. Both of mine got it and the Fenestil was amazing - they didn't scratch and said it wasn't itchy. I just let them run around in their pants and nappy and dabbed the spots with cotton wool soaked in calamine. The first few days before the spots came out were the worst as they were stroppy, tired, had a fever and I had no clue what was wrong until the little blister spots started to appear! By the time the spots come out they seem much better! good luck and fingers crossed if they get it it's not too bad.
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 21:10
I am asking for a friend - aircon broken in lounge - cockroach infestation - power surges causing appliances to blow up - bathroom flooding - drain problem causing almighty 'pen and ink' ? Sounds like a normal apartment in Dubai to me....... and I'm not joking either..... That is sad though.....
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 19:54
They're not new. They've been here a while. Anyone remember the labourers out at the camp near Al Muntazah in Jebel Ali protesting about 5 years ago? The police used water cannon to disperse them then. I guess they are on the roads now to remind us all that the police still have them. Yes I remember that - it was awful......
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 19:52
I am asking for a friend - aircon broken in lounge - cockroach infestation - power surges causing appliances to blow up - bathroom flooding - drain problem causing almighty 'pen and ink' ? have they reported these problems to the LL? If so, has he not done anything about them? If not....do they have proof in writing that they have contacted him and asked him to fix the problems. Do they have a mail trail? If so then I would go to the Rent Committee and ask them if they can break the lease and move out - after all - if they've asked for it all to be put right and the LL has not done so - he's not keeping his end of the contract....
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 19:50
Always haggle......
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:33
No you can't send to the UK. The max you can carry over yourself is 200 per person. They never check and i NEVER take that few. Always take between 600-1000. :D Errrrr yes they do check - you've just been lucky/mad!
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:28
Its definitely before and it's also signposted off szr
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 17:27
Anyone have any ideas? Can she drive over the border at Hatta and come straight back in? No I don't think she can - I think if she came on a tourist visa she has to exit and be out of the country for 30 days before coming back in on her new visa. Do check this though - my housemaid came in on a visit visa and I changed it at immigration to a work visa and just paid there and then to make the change - she did not have to exit the country but I think a tourist visa is different.....
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 16:45
Are Joseph and Jessel the same company? I want to get vertical blinds installed for two sliding glass doors but it seems that what I call vertical blinds are different than what they call them here. I want the long slats that hang from top to bottom. You can open them to let light in or you can pull them all the way to the side to exit the door. We went to Ikea last night and bought several wood blinds for our other windows but they are horizontal and when I asked for vertical blinds the salesman kept taking me to the horizontal blinds insisting they were vertical blinds. No Jeseel and Joseoph are not from the same company. I've used Jeseel a few times now and have been very happy - he does the stitching for Ikea but will make blinds etc that Ikea don't do....very good guy and I would highly recomment him...
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 16:41
Hire a Gites in France or take a villa in spain.
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 16:31
It's called the antiques Museum and they have a very good framers in there - it's not just one man but a pretty good team of guys. If you do a search on here you'll get good directions it's tricky to find.....
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Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 09:11
Is anyone selling any ballet clothes for my DD age 3 there are some cute tutus in H&M and they are not expensive....