Embo | ExpatWoman.com
 

Embo

304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 06:44
Noticed there is a sign up for one open in Carrefour too now-no children so no idea what it is like I haven't used it but you can leave your children for 2 hours for 50dhs and they take them to Little Explorers (used to be Cite des Enfants). Seems like a pretty good deal!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 14:11
I had really bad sciatica pain with my first pregnancy and started to get the same with my second. Bought a pair of Birkenstocks and it was bliss - no pain! do birkenstocks help wth sciaitca? then i'l take one for MIL I don't know for sure but for me they were a godsend! Something about the arch support that just seems to align my posture the right way.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 08:30
Hi mirdifmummy, I have not been there but been to a few in Mirdif since my very good hairdresser left for Lebanon and have not been overly impressed until I bumped into her a few weeks ago. She is back and as fab as ever. She is at Modern Woman in Mirdif. Ask for Elhaam. She does everything but best of all she can cut and color PROPERLY. Good luck. Do you mind posting details of where Modern Woman is? I've tried a couple salons in Mirdif too but not been overly impressed.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 08:24
I had really bad sciatica pain with my first pregnancy and started to get the same with my second. Bought a pair of Birkenstocks and it was bliss - no pain!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 May 2011 - 19:44
Depends on the year level the kids are going into. Having lived in DSO with a child at Star, I would definitely choose the school you are closest to. We have since moved to Mirdif to be closer to the school. We are happy with Star.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 May 2011 - 15:51
Ah that's the funniest thing I have read for ages. I like the one about the girl having a rough day.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 May 2011 - 13:58
Thats what I didn't get about the interview. The interviewer never asked the obvious question - why continue to allow your daughter to participate if the price of participation is botox? The mum kept going on about "needing" to do it to compete with the other girls, like she was protecting her daughter from humiliation.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 May 2011 - 13:51
Oh thank you Embo, where is st 47 in Mirdiff if I am coming from the lights at the end of Algeria Street towards airport rd. If you have a telephone number too that would be good Keep going along Algeria street past Shorooq on the right. Go straight through the roundabout at Uptown and take the slip lane to the right immediately after the roundabout. This is 47 street. There are two malls on the left hand side of the road. One (the first) is unfinished and is called Mirdif Mall and the second is Barajeel. There is a Medcare at the front. Enter the mall on the left of the medical centre and walk straight. You will see Katrina's confectionary on your left as well as a pet supplies shop. Croqui is one or two shops past that.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 21:34
Hi Embo could you give the details of the tailor in mirdiff. Have you used them yourself and if so were you happy with the results? Hi Camelfly. Its a tailor called Croqui Design in the Barajeel Mall on 47 Street. I know she has a sign up at the moment saying that she won't accept new jobs until June because she has too much on but I think if you are desperate she will try and help. I have had a full length formal dress made which I am very happy with - not just the outcome but the way they were so helpful and I had quite a few fittings to make sure it was perfect. My sister had 2 formal dresses and one casual one made and she was happy with the results. I personally found them much easier and more pleasant to deal with than anyone in Satwa. Hope this helps!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 12:50
where are you? I can recommend one in Mirdif. Cocktail dress for 150dhs. Let me know if you need the details.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 20:31
Sharing the battered cod. Hmmm that could be a big part of the problem :). not everyone wants to see kitties jumping on laps and helping themselves to dinner. A policy of "do not feed the cats please' could be a good thing if everyone is to remain happy. edited by SueB on 16/05/2011 Lol, no wonder there were so many rats skittering around IV last time we were there. Cats are too well fed!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 18:34
you can try baby wipes. I can vouch for it working on biro but not permanent marker ... Honestly makes me wonder what is in baby wipes given the stuff it has removed from my leather couch. :\:
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 15:05
Definitely not Al Hadheera next to Bab Al Shams!!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 14:58
There have been lots of threads but I would recommend Dr John McEwen at City Hospital. I have been very happy with his treatment of my son (and me as his Mum too!)
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 10:38
Embo, I suggest you tell them you're travelling but want to be permanently registered with Australia. Do you already have an Australian Amazon account? If so, I can't imagine there would be a problem with keeping your Kindle account Australian. Good luck with sorting it out, I agree, the ME selection is worse than useless. ETA: Or, as KKS said, change your location on the Amazon website :) edited by simpleasabc on 09/05/2011 Ah, I just created an account yesterday, not in Australia. Thanks for the tip Simpleasabc, will email them and see how it goes. Lucky the one book I managed to download was a big one!! ETA I did change the location but they still sent me the email :( <em>edited by Embo on 09/05/2011</em>
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 10:21
Just got a kindle yesterday for mothers day. I registered it to Australia but after my first download Amazon sent me an email asking to fax through proof that I am in Australia. Anyone else had this problem? Kindle is no use to me if I can only access the measly 75 cr@p titles that are available in the ME!!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 12:14
woohoo Thanks for the update Sanddy_Dogg. I had a feeling it was all going to end badly for them.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 10:41
we're seeing Dr McEwan for my son's similar problems - can't say enough positive things about him! Even called him on his mobile yesterday after my son had a seizure and he was wonderful. We're seeing him at the City Hospital and had our first appointment within 2 days of calling.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 10:27
voluntarily?
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 08:54
lol! mission for today then...find out WHO actually said the lovely quote. I did google it! Jessica Dovey apparently - although not in its entirety. I wish it was Yoda ...
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 08:48
Be careful, the rabid dogs will be on this thread telling you to go and burn an American flag soon. Bunch of low lives. I agree, I'd have liked to have seen him suffering when he was captured or after he was killed! Martin Luther King, Jr: 'I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. It IS a lovely quote, but I was told yesterday it can be attributed to Yoda, not MLK, jr. Just saying ;) Neither! Apparently it was someone else who originally said it.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 08:41
I must be weird - I love turbulence when flying! it helps me nod off.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 08:33
There is a tennis court in Mirdif Park (the one next to the pink mall) and its not locked so I can't see how they would charge for it. I thought the tennis academy was in Garhoud?
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 13:39
We're not Asian but our daughter goes to a British Curriculum school with children from 43 different nationalities. I've never witnessed nor heard about any racism from the children and it seems that all the children play together. My daughter talks about all the children in her class as her friends. I think at that age, children "judge" others by their behaviour not by their appearance. A lovely approach that could teach some adults a few lessons!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 08:44
Congratulations CT! You will be sorely missed here but I'm happy for you.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 April 2011 - 19:25
oreganos in mirdif deliver but they also have a minimum - I think it is 150 dhs. Nice pizza though!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 19:20
Make sure you leave plenty of time. Went to 5 tailors in Satwa today and couldn't get a (very simple) dress made in under 3 weeks ...
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 20:44
We paid 2000 to move three bedroom plus study. They came at 9 and left after having unpacked everything (except kitchen because I wanted to do that) at 5pm. My Mum and I just left them to it and had a coffee and did some shopping much to her horror! ETA we used Gill Cargo and were very happy <em>edited by Embo on 15/04/2011</em>
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 11:19
saw some at Carrefour the other day ( I was looking for adhesive hooks)
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 11:17
beautiful
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 11:13
I'm certainly no expert but have tried various "diets" over the years, none of which have worked because basically I have no self control! I have recently lost 9 kilos through exercise and "sensible" eating. I haven't changed an awful lot but I have reduced the amount of gluten I eat and I really limit carbohydrates after 4pm. Whatever I am cooking for dinner for the rest of the family, I just eat the non-carb component. It has worked really well for me because I don't feel deprived and I haven't had to make a massive change to my lifestyle so I think it is easier to maintain than a drastic diet. Just this week I bought the Mel B workout for the Wii - I have really enjoyed it!!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 21:08
Redrec Tangle, have sent you an email so you can take down your address!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 18:39
Feefee thank you for sharing. Those ARE one of the schools I am looking into (purely because no where else has spaces!) and as you said, it begs the question why? Perhaps its just because the school is aggressively expanding class numbers and years. But some of the older class sizes are only 9-12 which is unheard of. Its a bit worrying but right now priority is to get my child into any school and perhaps find a slot later on at a school of first choice. That said, most parents that write on here are quite happy with their children's learning curve, and every post I've read talks about how the child loves going to school. I dont know others who were not happy and what issues they faced, it would be nice to find out a little bit about the flip side too. Honestly, I too, encountered this not so good vibe that you had mentioned, as every school has a 'feel' thats unique to it, but keeping fingers crossed my instincts will prove wrong. I'd be happy to answer any questions you have!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 18:23
Yes it is Star that I was talking about. Maybe I am wrong but there does not seem to be a good vibe from there. I have taught in schools before and if the atmosphere is not right, our children suffer. Maybe it is a Dubai thing. But if parents are happy with the school, it is good enough for me. You're right, there have been some issues with the administration at the school but my daughter has been there for 2 years and the 2 teachers she has had have been fantastic. To me, that's the thing that really counts. I am very happy with her progress and also with the values they seem to be instilling in the children - they keep a very close eye on all the dynamics in the classroom and playground. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Star, notwithstanding some minor "issues" that had nothing to do with the quality of education. <em>edited by Embo on 13/04/2011</em>
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 April 2011 - 21:23
Hey Juzzrach! I think the easiest way is to take the Business Bay crossing fro Al Khail. There are lots of signs to Al Badia but the easiest is to take the Festival City exit and head down past Ikea and the mall (on your right) and Ace (on your left). If you keep going on this road it will take you straight into Al Badia. HTH! You can always call me if you need more directions or get lost ...
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 April 2011 - 17:43
Yes a, it has. Surprisingly hard given we were only away for five years. It feels different here. I feel different. Shame I'm not articulate enough to explain it clearly. :) We're living in a part of Aus I've only ever visited for holidays so apart from my Mum, I don't know a soul here. Starting all over again is exhausting. The only two school mums that I've bonded with are an English woman married to an Aussie bloke (who also does FIFO!) and an Aussie who's best friend lives in Istanbul so she's done a lot of travelling. I'm sick to death of having to be careful of what I say. I often can't mention our time in Dubai because I almost always get one of two reactions...disgust or disbelief that I'd choose to live in the Middle East or eyes glazing over and rolling like they assume I think I'm better than them because I've travelled. I've had to tell my son not to talk about our travels too much because I heard one stupid woman saying to another that my son is a snob because all he talks about is his holidays in Italy. HELLO! He's five, all kids love holidays and his just happened to be in a different part of the world. Those of you who know my Ben know there's not a snobby bone in his body. :( edited by Green-ish on 05/04/2011 I think part of it is that Australia (and particularly where you are Green-ish) is soooooo different from here and I imagine you would have to check in to EW occasionally just to remind yourself that yes you did experience all those things and its not part of your imagination! Besides, we miss you (and your lovely, non-snobby kids) and its nice to think you're still around, even if its on the other side of the world! And who knows, maybe you will be back here again?!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 13:00
ugh the smell makes me vomit. Also got a nasty chemical burn once ... put me off for life!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:58
What I find quite interesting with the packers here is when they see a local person, they will drop all your goods and run there to pack coz they get quite nice tips from them. and i have seen locals order the packer around, make them push the trolley to their vehicle, load the groceries into the back, take the trolley back to the trolley zone and click their fingers waiting for the dirham back from out of the trolley. have you ever seen the locals who give the packers a Dh50/100 tip without thinking about it? I bet that is not worth a mention on EW. Never seen it and doubt I ever will. I've seen a man in a khandoura slip the free face painter 50 dhs to paint his daughter's face, skipping the queue of children. Now I understand why the face painter took the money and allowed the girl to skip the queue but not so easy to explain to a 5 year old why sometimes people feel that having money means they don't need good manners.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 April 2011 - 20:21
Nah, have been scratched by bouganvillea heaps of times and still here to tell the tale.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 March 2011 - 17:33
My Mum was a midwife and unfortunately saw a lot of sadness over her 30+ year career, along with the joy of new life. When one of my closest friends lost one of her unborn twins at 25 weeks, I asked Mum for advice on how to "be" around her, given I was also pregnant. She said that the worst thing for parents was when people ignored the loss, mostly out of awkwardness, or tried to focus too much on moving on. She said that it was important to acknowledge the baby, talk about the funeral and whatever memorial is planned. Mum is not a grief counsellor, but this was what she observed to be of the most comfort to bereaved parents (don't forget the Dad too). I think, CC, the fact that you are concerned enough to ask the question shows you are a thoughtful friend.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 March 2011 - 19:50
Sorry to hijack but does anyone know if any of these recommended endos have experience with pump therapy?
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 March 2011 - 11:16
Just to add the opposing view ... I (and my son) love Small Steps. It is a really homey atmosphere. I personally found EBN to be a little militarised with lines of children being marched from one activity to the next. While I was on the tour I noticed a number of children crying, while that is not terribly unusual in a nursery, I was concerned that no one was comforting them. I just got a better "vibe" from Small Steps. I think the only way you can make a decision is to visit each of the nurseries (just re-read your original post and saw that you have done that!) and go with the one you feel most comfortable with and also watch how your child reacts to the different environments.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 16:21
Great line Arohadxb!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 15:06
Is this a maid or a maid/nanny? I find it interesting that people in Oz do not approve of the concept of having a maid (in oz) when there are plenty of them in the UK that have a nanny - and no offense but, treat them like maids! :) I also knew someone from Perth that went to a nanny school to be a nanny in the UK. So I find the idea that people would be so anti-maid a bit weird. Start calling her a nanny, au air or personal assistant so you can be [i'>acceptable[/i'> :) I do know of a couple people who have nannies from overseas - there is an agency that arranges for young girls (early 20s) to go to Australia and work for a family. They usually work 5 days a week and the "host" family is expected to provide room and board and provide access to a car as well as take them on trips so they can see Australia. It is so that the girls can experience Australia on a working holiday. I only know of a couple people who do this as it is hideously expensive as well as quite a lot of hassle. Quite different to the concept of a maid. ETA: they are definitely nannies and not maid/nanny (no housework) <em>edited by Embo on 21/03/2011</em>
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 14:58
how much should you tip? I never know. I once tipped a furniture guy 30 and got a really sour look. Tipped the gas man 50 and he almost starting crying. Whats the expected amount?
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 12:54
Hi, Just thinking out loud but I wonder how Western places would look at us with maids in say the US or UK or Australia? My sister thinks it's wrong we had hired help here in the Middle East, that we were taking advantage, is it one of those things that should remain in the Middle East and not be re-introduced to other places in the world? Sorry I don't know about Australian immigration laws, I have a hunch it will be tough though. Acutally, I haven't thought about that aspect either....... My gut says that this may pose a problem socially..... I've never met anybody is Aus with full time help (except the European au pairs who come to watch the kids while you are at work) and a Nepalise maid may stand out.... Was just on the phone to my friend in Oz and asked her. She is a Singapore national who has grown up with maids... her response was "not on your life." She said that aside from being responsible for this person, she can get perfect help in Oz. Between Jims Cleaning service, her ironing lady, council daycare and uni student babysitters, she is set. Also, the social stigma from having a maid or servant is hard to grasp in Oz. Culturally, it is not the norm. Good point AJ... CW, you should post on an expat site in Aus and see how they feel about you bringing a maid... set your mind at ease. KvK I as thinking the same thing- I can't imagine how well that would go down with other people to be honest. I don't know ANYONE with live in staff. Plenty of people have cleaners but not full time live in maids. CW you might be comfortable with doing this, but you may like to think about how isolating it will be for your maid. There will also be a lot of additional costs - you will need withhold tax, pay sick leave, superannuation, and pay a much higher salary. TBH, I don't think the extra costs/ hassle/ social impacts etc would be worth it, even if you could manage to get around the immigration headache.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 18:35
Good luck with the move! Out of curiosity A_lisha where in Australia are you from? Give me a hoy if you need any help!
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 March 2011 - 13:27
Wow- none of you guys better move to Australia then! Groceries here are CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP compared to the capital cities there. Example of Brisbane prices at local supermarket: Diet coke bottle 12 aed Loaf of bakery bread 14 aed Chicken breasts 40aed per kilo Nappies 120aed Clothes are much cheaper here, petrol is much cheaper, cars are cheaper, services are cheaper. You won't find too many Aussies complaining about coat of living here (other than school fees and rent!) Because the aussie dollar is so strong, maybe the highest in history vs USD... It certainly cannot only be due to the strength of the Aussie dollar. We lived in Perth a few years back before the dollar started gaining strength and we about died - the cost of many grocery items and other things was almost double what we'd been paying in Canada at the time! I remember paying $20 AUD for a 1 kg bag of grapes one time and about fainted! We moved to the US after leaving Aus and recently here to Dubai - and while some things are more expensive than they were in Houston, they are not nearly as expensive as they were in Perth, and we've found many things (especially breads and baked goods, sodas, etc) that are actually a fair amount cheaper here than in Houston. I think it matters where you shop. I try to find a local version for most things and not only stick to the imported foods at Spinneys. edited by CdnExpat on 16/03/2011 Have to agree with that - I divide the costs of things by three to get a rough comparison (even though the exchange averages about 3.6) and its still waaaaaay cheaper here than in Australia. Goes for food, clothes, appliances etc. The quality however ... I would give my right arm sometimes just to be able to buy fresh food on a weekly basis rather than having to buy every day because what you bought yesterday is now off.
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 March 2011 - 11:16
ok first up I am going to say that I make NO assertions about the safety of this suggestion, but to answer the original question, I have seen a similar device to a child's plane seat belt for dogs travelling in cars. It is more of a harness than just a lap belt like on a plane. If you are absolutely desperate, that may be an option to look into?
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 17:56
I paid 2000 to move 3 bed plus study from Silicon Oasis to Mirdif.