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Embo

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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 17:54
I'm with HK and Green-ish. I remember being at an information night at DD's kindergarten where the principal of the local school was giving info about the transition to school. There were all these Mums worried about how their super bright kids were going to cope with being bored by doing pre-school. The principal was lovely and calm as he explained that little Johnny might be able to read and write already but school was about more than just academics and in his experience the "bright" kids were often the least able to cope with the sometimes brutal social aspects of school and were also often less physically developed (in terms of coordination etc). His preferred approach was to keep children in the appropriate class for their age and offer extension for the kids that needed it (those who were advanced as well as those who needed a bit more help). Knowing some of the mums and their children, I think his comments were spot on. Just something to think about.
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Latest post on 14 March 2011 - 13:56
I started with a business degree with HR and then went back to uni after a couple of years to do law. It was a very long road but fulfilling because it was something I was genuinely interested in. I would say do it, if it is something you will enjoy. I haven't managed to transition into a legal job because once you have a mortgage, school fees, etc etc etc the prospect of ditching that well paid job (that also allows part time work) and starting at the bottom again is daunting. That was one of the reasons we decided to move here because DH's salary here is enough that I could start at the bottom. The problem now is a lack of part time work options that will allow me to balance my family responsibilities with work responsibilities. Its never easy ...:( ETA Singapore Sling, your work history sounds so much like what I am interested in!! <em>edited by Embo on 14/03/2011</em>
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Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 09:11
How exciting! :) Going to crack open the Cardonnay and have some little baby jesus! Ah a statue of little baby cheeses - best line EVER - still makes me laugh.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 08:48
My DD is also at Star and we came from Australia too. We are *pretty* happy with the school but that seems to be the same with all schools - there is always something you're not quite happy with. We just moved from Silicon Oasis to Mirdif and while the planes are noisy, I wouldn't go back to DSO for anything! Mirdif has great shopping, restaurants, and parks and best of all its close to school!! Good luck with your decision, if you want to ask any questions, I'm happy to help!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 March 2011 - 08:03
Does anyone know how long these take to make? Thanks Might be similar timing to having the name necklaces made? Miss Embo had some done for me after we left so she may know... xx Thats so funny, I was just thinking that would be a great idea for DH's birthday and was thinking a visit to my man in Sharjah might be in order ... Necklaces take 2-3 days if you're rushed but they prefer a little longer.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2011 - 08:24
Lol I wonder if you will get my villa! Moving out tomorrow and caaaaaaaaaaan't wait! Might not be such a factor for you but the amount of driving just got me down. The villas are lovely, facilities are nice but no real supermarket and no school meant an enormous amount of time in the car and a lot of time in foodcourts filling in time between nursery and school pickups, school pickups and after school activities etc etc The kids here are total brats that run completely wild breaking things and roaming the streets until all hours with absolutely no supervision. I can't count the number of times I have almost run over children on bikes. Security are powerless to do anything about it. If you are with EK you will have access to some other activities in the Semmer Villas compound. As non-EK we did not have access to any organised activities. Agree with Greenish about needing to know where your villa is. In summer even the walk to the pool can be a long way with little ones. I know the new Spinneys is opening this week but if you are in Cedre Villas (phase 1), the walk to the complex in Semmer villas would be over 6 km round trip. Add a couple of k's if you're in phase 2. Have not yet found a decent delivery for meals. Another reason I am excited to move - finally decent takeaway!! Sorry this all sounds pretty negative but I think you need to be aware of how isolating it is here in the middle of the desert, especially with no car. edited by Embo on 19/02/2011 lol... I used to have a friend out there with a teenager.. Those were some interesting late night phone calls from her in distress about the trouble her dd was in. And a certain boy who came constantly that they couldn't seem to keep banned from the complex as another parent was always vouching for the boy with security. edited by bornconfused on 19/02/2011 YIKES!!! But sadly not surprised.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2011 - 08:00
ah thanks - I did google it and came up with something that suggested it may not be screened in UAE because of graphic content. Just wondered if anyone knew for sure?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2011 - 07:39
Does anyone know if this is showing anywhere? Thanks
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2011 - 07:08
Lol I wonder if you will get my villa! Moving out tomorrow and caaaaaaaaaaan't wait! Might not be such a factor for you but the amount of driving just got me down. The villas are lovely, facilities are nice but no real supermarket and no school meant an enormous amount of time in the car and a lot of time in foodcourts filling in time between nursery and school pickups, school pickups and after school activities etc etc The kids here are total brats that run completely wild breaking things and roaming the streets until all hours with absolutely no supervision. I can't count the number of times I have almost run over children on bikes. Security are powerless to do anything about it. If you are with EK you will have access to some other activities in the Semmer Villas compound. As non-EK we did not have access to any organised activities. Agree with Greenish about needing to know where your villa is. In summer even the walk to the pool can be a long way with little ones. I know the new Spinneys is opening this week but if you are in Cedre Villas (phase 1), the walk to the complex in Semmer villas would be over 6 km round trip. Add a couple of k's if you're in phase 2. Have not yet found a decent delivery for meals. Another reason I am excited to move - finally decent takeaway!! Sorry this all sounds pretty negative but I think you need to be aware of how isolating it is here in the middle of the desert, especially with no car. <em>edited by Embo on 19/02/2011</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 February 2011 - 17:29
School will be finished on time, they have places but are filling fast, the Head is Martin Clark who has a excellent reputation, its a GEMS school profit making. Are you sure about that? It was supposed to be finished last September and while there has been *some* progress it still looks a long way from finished.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 February 2011 - 17:07
lawyers? Not necessary. If a domestic servant is given a duty then she should perform it without question. And yes, I do object to maids retrieving items from my trash, if I offer it first then ok, but it is trash and my trash....... I'm asking for a legal opinion as i'm genuinely curious, as i don't know the legalities. Just because one holds an opinion it doesn't make it right, no matter how emphatically one expresses it. Ok not a lawyer here so can't comment on the legalities under Sharia law but in common law countries once RB said "throw it out" she relinquished any rightful ownership of the meat. Therefore CL or anyone else for that matter can take legal possession.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 08:55
We just had a party for our 6 year old and the game the girls loved the most was musical statues - so easy to do! Was great entertainment for us watching their dance moves too.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 08:52
We were there yesterday at 10 and everything was open. There were a couple cruise ships in and stacks of tourists so not sure if that makes a difference. Just one word of warning though - we will be back this afternoon as a bed spread my Mum bought yesterday had a number of stains on it so we need to return it. Just make sure you check everything!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 February 2011 - 19:06
Interesting question Kylie. The instruction was to toss the meat - to me that means the end of RB's "ownership" of the meat and the CL was free to do what she wished with it. Funny how people are quick to moan about the lack of initiative shown by their domestic staff - doesn't look like they have much incentive!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 February 2011 - 06:02
Don't recall seeing a taxi rank but if he is meeting with facilities management to do the snag list then I am sure they will call a taxi for him. Alternatively the security guys can call a taxi for him.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 February 2011 - 16:04
Saw some at Dragonmart today
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 February 2011 - 15:58
You can go to a gp (local doctor's office). Some of them bulk bill children which means they bill Medicare directly and you don't need to pay and claim while others charge you and you will have to go to Medicare to get a rebate (often only a portion of what you have paid). In Queensland, Qld Health operate child health clinics in some suburbs where you can request an appointment for check ups. I'm not sure whether NSW Health does the same but I would suggest that doing a search on NSW Health would be the best way to find out whether there is one near you and how to go about scheduling an appointment and whether there is any cost to you. Qld also does free immunisations for children and NSW may be the same but again you would be able to find out this information in the Yellow Pages or online.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2011 - 17:48
You're local ahem cough cough dvd person should have it. Wasn't overly impressed myself to be honest, but worth a watch. Agree, thought it was boring as batsh!t myself
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2011 - 17:46
Ummm last time I checked humans had a totally different digestive system from zebras ... We sure do. It makes me ponder why we think it is acceptable to drink the milk of another species :\: [i'>*I consume dairy and agree with them that cheese is as addictive as crack :)*[/i'> Mmmmmmm camembert .... I agree about the milk thing, I just thought their arguments were spurious.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2011 - 15:43
I bought it thinking it seemed good for a laugh - kind of a tough love approach to dieting/ weight loss. Couldn't stand its pseudo-science approach. I think it was aimed at a "Super-size" me kind of market that really enjoys a nefarious conspiracy theory without actually thinking about it. I was intrigued about some of the allegations so I took the trouble of checking some of the references and went to the end of the book. Ummmm if you refer to more than a certain percentage of "internet sources" then you lose any sort of credibility with me. My all time favourite argument in the book was that humans don't need meat in their diet because all those zebras grazing the plains don't need animal protein do they? Ummm last time I checked humans had a totally different digestive system from zebras ...
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2011 - 04:51
Arohadxb we are in the same position - DD needs a bike and the 20inch ones don't take stabilisers but she hasn't learnt to ride yet. One bike shop suggested that we buy a 20 inch bike and take the pedals off and let her learn to balance by using her legs and then putting them back on. Maybe you don't need to give away the bike yet? (Sorry snowy)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2011 - 04:43
Lead poisoning can lead to developmental delays and other more long term issues in young children but I'm not sure what the immediate symptoms are. Agree you should definitely get tests as it can be treated and a single exposure is enough for poisoning to occur (especially in one so small). HTH.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 February 2011 - 17:47
They have them in Park n Shop on Al Wasl Road, on the wall at the end by the bakery. I assume P n S bring them in in bulk as they're in clear bags priced by the shop rather than a pot. Thanks for that!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 February 2011 - 16:57
If you can't find any I have some in my cupboard that I'm happy to share with you. Thats so kind of you Claire! Will let you know. I'll do a trek to PnS and LuLu first! I think I recall someone mentioning Candylicious in Dubai Mall - do you think they would have anything?
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Latest post on 04 February 2011 - 09:36
The Grand Hyatt does too.
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Latest post on 04 February 2011 - 09:34
If you have the time, you can try the textile souk - there are a couple shops that have ready made clothes that are quite outrageous!
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 17:38
Or the ever so charming "grew here not flew here" bumper stickers?
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 13:04
Of all the stereotype issues to get caught up about I wouldn't think this would top the list. American trash, in relation to tv is more like a genre isn't it? Like Bollywood movies, or BBC drama. I for one love trashy tv - such great escapism!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 10:07
Once CB was with another partner, what a difference, totally different vibe. GB overplays quite often, cannot stand her pretending laugh.. time for a change on that show. Totally agree that the vibe has changed. He hardly lets her get a word in edgewise and completely dismisses anything she has to say. Its really starting to bug me.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 10:01
I was in MCC on Thursday night and I saw a young girl - looked no more than 14 wearing a super mini sequinned skirt and strapless boob tube with skyscraper stilettos and a face full of makeup. At first I smiled to myself, thinking how she probably snuck out of the house wearing substantially more than that and that she probably didn't know how silly she looked. Then I realised that a significant proportion of the food court were probably using rather different words to describe her. My point is, did her parents know she was out like this? Who wouldn't object to their 14 year old being out at 7pm in a food court? Sometimes you just can't protect them from themselves. I would object. Object to what? To a 14 year old going to a mall? It was only 7pm. I was presuming that the parents would have objected to what she was wearing but that they were not aware.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 09:48
Thanks tahm ...in the morning light I do realise it was not meant to offend. and I get what everyone is saying. However I would like to share my experience. My son is 5. He has been going to preschool/school since he was 2.5. He has had 4 teachers so far in his little life. Two of which were non native English speakers, very very heavily accented. One was from Mexico, the other from NZ. His other two teachers were American. His best years have been with those two non native English teachers. He has learnt so much from them and not their accent. His current teacher is the one with the thick NZ accent but she is the most amazing wonderful teacher I have ever seen (and I have an older child so I've been doing this for a while). I feel that if I only looked at her accent my son would have missed out (yes missed out) on a wonderful teacher. She is everything you'd ever hope for in a kindergarten teacher and more. Yes she talks different but she is qualified (over qualified really) for the job and she is dedicated and hard working. LOL Zedzee you made me laugh out loud! Most Australians would agree that Kiwis are not native English speakers!! Lol same could be said about Australians ;) And it frequently is!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 09:43
I was in MCC on Thursday night and I saw a young girl - looked no more than 14 wearing a super mini sequinned skirt and strapless boob tube with skyscraper stilettos and a face full of makeup. At first I smiled to myself, thinking how she probably snuck out of the house wearing substantially more than that and that she probably didn't know how silly she looked. Then I realised that a significant proportion of the food court were probably using rather different words to describe her. My point is, did her parents know she was out like this? Who wouldn't object to their 14 year old being out at 7pm in a food court? Sometimes you just can't protect them from themselves.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 09:34
Thanks tahm ...in the morning light I do realise it was not meant to offend. and I get what everyone is saying. However I would like to share my experience. My son is 5. He has been going to preschool/school since he was 2.5. He has had 4 teachers so far in his little life. Two of which were non native English speakers, very very heavily accented. One was from Mexico, the other from NZ. His other two teachers were American. His best years have been with those two non native English teachers. He has learnt so much from them and not their accent. His current teacher is the one with the thick NZ accent but she is the most amazing wonderful teacher I have ever seen (and I have an older child so I've been doing this for a while). I feel that if I only looked at her accent my son would have missed out (yes missed out) on a wonderful teacher. She is everything you'd ever hope for in a kindergarten teacher and more. Yes she talks different but she is qualified (over qualified really) for the job and she is dedicated and hard working. LOL Zedzee you made me laugh out loud! Most Australians would agree that Kiwis are not native English speakers!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 18:15
Hey Juzzrach On the Dubai 92 spot with Whats On last week they talked about mobile spas - maybe you could check the Whats On website (or Dubai 92) or buy the mag to get the details. From memory they only talked about 3 but gave good reviews for all of them. The only one that sticks in my mind is Azure (International City) because thats close to us. Hope this helps and hope you're feeling better today! Em
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Latest post on 29 January 2011 - 09:44
Does anyone know if you need to get permission to have a party there? And if you do, how you go about getting permission? Thanks!
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Latest post on 28 January 2011 - 09:10
Tanya b you have mail!
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Latest post on 28 January 2011 - 08:00
Don't Ikea sell them anymore? They had them a couple months ago? I have seen them at quite a few furniture stores but I think you're right, they are aimed at a younger market. Will keep an eye out for you!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 January 2011 - 07:57
Just one other point to consider, you can get lots of different types of cover - some that just cover "extras" like dental, optical, physio (most of the allied health services) or some that just cover hospitalisation. Its a good idea to think about what your family will need to see which type will suit you best. Iselect, like someone else suggested is a good start to see what is available. To avoid the higher tax, you will need some sort of hospital cover. For general trips to the GP, you won't be covered by any insurance but can get a rebate from Medicare which usually covers less than half (depending on your doctor). The public health system is pretty good but it does not cover any of the extras listed above which can be very expensive, especially with a family. Private health insurance, for hospital trips basically means you get to choose your doctor, who will see you individually, and you *may* get a private room in a hospital. Having been in and out of hospital a lot myself and with children I would say that the difference for children is minimal but the difference for adults can be significant in terms of quality of care. Sorry this is so long but it is quite complex!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 19:35
Isn't there something about throwing "shrimp on a barbie"? Also is there a conciliatory Aussie saying...kind of like "Better luck next time" or "You put your best foot forward"? Just getting ready...never know when one might need to console some Aussies. Ummm "She'll be right mate" should do the trick.
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Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 19:33
Noice! After Kath and Kim it has to be "Noice, different, unusual"
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Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 19:28
Ah thanks KIF. I thought it was probably an annual thing but was intrigued by the boom gate to keep people out. It looks today like they have set up some stalls too. Its all in Arabic so I couldn't read what it was all about. I love driving along there on a Thursday night and seeing all the families having bonfires!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 19:20
OMG I would never let a 12 year old read those books. DH didn't get through them because he found them too disturbing. Back to the original question though, I don't recall my parents censoring my reading and I read everything I could get my hands on. In hindsight, they probably censored what I had access to!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 07:20
Actually I'm off to the blue souk in Sharjah this morning and could pick one up for you if you like?
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Latest post on 26 January 2011 - 07:14
Antiques Museum can be a little expensive. You can get same quality cheaper at Karama (AM have a shop there which happily undercuts!!) or textile souk. Try Aleem at Asia East - I have bought tons of stuff there and he always does a good deal.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 January 2011 - 14:18
Hmmmm...looks like another 7Days newspaper article in the making... Why would you tell people your personal business? good point. I replied because I am bored today (hate working Sundays) and because I don't care as I plan to leave within the next couple of months :) will delete my info edited by glasgo2010 on 23/01/2011 Nooooooooo don't go!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 January 2011 - 14:10
I thought you meant you wanted a small school like Star Mirdif, but also good (meaning Star is not good!) Other than a couple of smallish issues at the beginning of the school year we are pretty happy with Star Mirdif. (if this helps)
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Latest post on 23 January 2011 - 13:11
might be transferring to mirdiff soon. can anybody recommend a primary school (FS1 up) british curriculum a little smaller in scale as star international mirdiff, however good? I'm a bit confused about your post - are you saying that Star is not good?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 January 2011 - 08:21
No Tim Tams on Australia Day will be a tragedy :\: I only eat 1 a year :( Please tell me its one packet a year? Not just one biscuit??!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 January 2011 - 08:15
Well this is interesting. I always just assumed that Dubai was "as dry as a dead dingo's donger" (as they say). It seems not so. Go figure? After living through 4 years of drought in Oz, all I can say is at least a bit of rain cleans away all the dust and makes everything green and fresh again... Lol after 4 weeks of rain in Queensland and then floods I was looking forward to coming back to "sunny" Dubai. I should be paid to go to drought affected areas :) BTW - Barry Mackenzie - cracker movie!!
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Latest post on 22 January 2011 - 08:01
And we can pile everything on the coffee table while we watch The Castle... 'suffer in your jocks' :) 'tell him he's dreamin' :) lol DH and I still say "give 'im a call" when we see something too expensive and "how's the serenity" when a plane goes overhead