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Encore

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 October 2012 - 10:23
Perhaps Greenfield could borrow Regent International Schools new idea to scan each page of school workbooks, post online and ask parents to print them from home?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 15:52
Our Abu Dhabi sponsored housemaid did her POLO things in Dubai for her travels back in April. Hope this helps.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2012 - 21:01
I love that so many parents here are so very passionate about their children's education. Personally, I feel education is only as successful as the supportive parents behind the child and the school, respectively. Our children are doing very well. They are growing socially and academically and we are very proud. They are not attending an "outstanding rated" school but, I feel their development proves they ARE in fact receiving an outstanding education. Dubai provides a social education and experiences that are unmatched on many levels... not including academics. We embrace that side of Dubai. I know this sounds fluffy and flowery but, I mean every word. Even I have grown into a better, stronger person in Dubai. To list a few new personal developments for me; I am a much better driver offensively and defensively to save our lives daily, I understand a multitude of variances on the English language, I have learned to be nice even when I grind my teeth... these are only a couple new skills I have and hope to pass on to my children. I am very satisfied that our education (mine and my Family's) is thriving in Dubai and we are growing together. IMHO (In My Humble Opinion)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 August 2012 - 16:24
What is the "certified copy" of the tenancy agreement? Can I make a copy of my original?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 August 2012 - 10:34
Nice.... HOUSEMAID. Dangit. I cant change that typo in the heading either. I will delete the thread and start over. Nope, cant do that either. Oh well. :\: <em>edited by Encore on 09/08/2012</em>
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 August 2012 - 10:26
We haven't had it returned because we still employ our Maid... but, we paid 5,000dhs and hope to have it returned someday. Not sure exactly how/where we will get it returned but, know that either she must leave the Country legally (plane ticket) or have a new Visa in processing and the Residence Visa receipt will serve as proof. Hopefully someone else can give most recent, detailed information.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 August 2012 - 09:02
Just found this: " Re: What’s going on in front of Shams/Amwaj? Postby Hotchillipepper » Sun Jun 24, 2012 12:08 pm This is the first phase in the project to build an under ground parking with shops above. more traffic nightmare for that part of JBR as there is no transparency on what will happen exactely or if a traffic incidence study was done. The project was shown in AD cityscape 2012. I must have some pictures somewhere. Will try to find them and post them." Wow. I am speechless and with this poster on the topic.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 23:03
Please, someone point me in the direction of a place who has a selection of tankini swimsuits. Thank you in advance for your help.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2012 - 12:20
Still hoping to find two tickets.... last night. Anyone have two they cant use?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 July 2012 - 17:07
Bump
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 July 2012 - 16:23
Bump...I would love to find 2.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 20:53
Thank you ladies for the advice. I will take it. It is just my nature when asked for help to do my best to...well, help. But, the facts are: I am not seeking a new housemaid. I dont know her well enough to put my name on a reference. I dont know what her options really are. So, I am in no position to offer advice on what to do.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 20:48
Where is she from? Philippines
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 June 2012 - 19:49
Many years ago I belonged to a dinner swap once a week plan. Each Family would prepare and package enough for an extra family of four-ish and then swap on the school run. It worked great for months. It did go sour though once one of the "swapper" Husbands disclosed he preferred another Wife's food and then it just kinda fizzled. Ha. Anyhow, I thought it was great.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 06:29
Ergo carrier is at the Bauhous (sp) in Ibn Battuta Mall near the large elephant display.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2012 - 11:07
When we first arrived in April of 2011 (Third Term), there were very limited options. We went with the school with the least resistance. We have continued to stay with that school based on outstanding Teacher performance. Of course we have normal concerns but, our children are very well adjusted, happy and eager to learn, independent little people and we are proud. I believe children will learn and grow wherever they may be. I am very happy with the life lessons, academics and social learning our kids are getting in every day life here in Dubai, which includes their school.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2012 - 07:07
Our American children are in UK curriculum. Here is the most recent example of difference, 6 year old DD is reading a book from the Oxford learning Series: ***Disclaimer for those who might need one: I don't have the book in front of me for reference Chip and Kipper are riding in a dinghy headed towards the weir. Kipper has a torch. Some of DD's questions: What is a Dinghy? What is a Weir? Is a torch a flashlight? "Chip and Kipper", huh... are those their REAL names? We are new to this UK curriculum and although I don't mind the introduction to a multitude of new vocabulary lessons, it does add a great deal of time to our reading homework regime. The challenge can be frustrating for her at times (and me too... ack, just hurry up already).
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 March 2012 - 12:13
I have a couple thoughts, First, I agree with Faryn and mary00. If it became common practice to pay your School fees in advance to secure your spot, the waiting lists would be less congested with the same names and those who hold places to make their choice on what best suits them until the last minute would be forced to choose with time for others to do the same. But, there has got to be a time limit on this practice. I mean, we are in March and Schools are asking for a financial commitment for September? I am unsure that if I paid the tuition 6 months in advance and for some reason our position in Dubai was made "redundant" (which seems to happen EVERY day for someone) that we would able to obtain a refund. Sure, they are asking for money as a deposit they will allocate to the tuition. However, will someone be sitting by in the event that the money needs to refunded over the 6 months that it sits there? I highly doubt getting a refund will happen with the ease that the check is cashed.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 March 2012 - 09:16
Great explanation Missymop! I have a question, Why wouldn't the insurance been responsible for the full debt on the car 38, 320? I thought the reason for Insurance was to protect the Bank first then the consumer. How can the Insurance declare the loss value less than the loan amount for a vehicle?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2012 - 06:10
Sorry for delay I got distracted and forgot... The most recent scheme I have experienced and now read about in The National (obviously I am not alone), is the "polite" demand for a large fee deposit on a term 7 months away. Worth a read. http://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/personal-finance/on-your-side-the-facts-on-school-fees-air-miles-and-more
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 21:28
I have recently ( since being introduced to it while in Dubai) started making french toast with Date Sauce instead of syrup and it is outstanding. Just thought I would share our new Family creation.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 21:09
As long as "they" can keep us all paranoid with the possibility that our children will be left out of schools all over Dubai, then we will all continue to frantically pay to have all our names on multiple lists. Probably the same names backing up the same lists. I find it unbelievable that a city as ingenuitive as Dubai has proven to be, would pass on the demand that the Schools all wish for us to believe there is. Insert: Big sigh and huge eye roll It is very frustrating.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 18:17
The National Paper publicized this regarding school fees, naming RIS directly... http://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/personal-finance/on-your-side-the-facts-on-school-fees-air-miles-and-more
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 17:59
@ Skykitty, Your Mom and mine must have been issued the same parenting book as I too have suffered the ticket giveaway for fighting with my sister. And my Husband and I have the same approach ;0) Although, as an adult I realize that we parents suffer too. We have missed events as a Family due to any combination of our three children having an "off" day. Events that have had careful planning and lots of excitement. Sometimes though, teaching our children the art of self control and consequences are the lessons of responsibility. We all learn and continue to learn.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 16:35
It seems fairly common for families to move within Dubai. Does anyone care to share the cost of a local move?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 16:33
Tea tree oil is an essential oil known for its lice repellent quality. We have always used this as a form of prevention when there is a known threat. Sorry, this is not helpful once the lice are present. Just thought I would mention it for information.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 16:24
Deserving Bump "And if people could die from sad, I might not be here typing these words right now. " I was so choked my throat hurt with empathy. Sometimes Mommyhood can be so painful. <em>edited by Encore on 15/03/2012</em>
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 January 2012 - 23:04
I am worried now.... would I know if I have fines? I mean, should we know (Hubby and I)? Is there a way to look it up somewhere?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 January 2012 - 23:01
Thanks again ladies! Based on these recommendations, I went to Heritage and found some wonderful pieces. The staff was very helpful, friendly and fair in their pricing.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 17:33
1.) Experience more joyful moments 2.) Appreciate my families wellness 3.) Endure fitness for my overall well-being no matter how much work it is, how tired I feel, how inconvenient it is, or any other lame excuse I try to make.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 09:44
ANother vote for Coco's! We have been to the one in JBR several times. The food and service was outstanding.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 09:37
Saw this the other day... who knows if it biased or paid to have great things said, you never know. But, worth a look. http://www.timeoutdubai.com/gallery/28558-20-ultimate-ladies-nights?image=7
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 09:23
El Chico (Mexican Food)- on the Walk, nice patio seating, the food was actually pretty good and the service was outstanding. Try the Guacamole made tableside. Yum Tiffinbites (Indian Food)- on The Walk, somehow it is always really quiet there but, in our experience the food was great and fresh and service really good. Ledoudna (Lebanese Food), on The Walk, always busy, great food, great service and really nice corner location for busy patio views. Just a couple places we have had really great experience with our three children aged 6 and under. Hope this helps.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 December 2011 - 06:37
I am an American mom (born & raised in USA) married to an American hubby (born & raised in USA) with an American 5 year old girl (born and taken away from USA when she was 3). She goes to DAA and we are very happy with the school. It very closely resembles a "high end" American school and there is a strong preference for teachers that are American (as you would expect for the curriculum taught) but they have wonderful teachers from everywhere and a great international feel too! There really are not that many Americans in Dubai (we only represent 1.5-2% of the population) so don't expect to find your countrymen's children gathered in groups at any schools. [b'>You may find one or less kids in a classroom that are from the USA (not just have the passport). [/b'>edited by americanfamily3 on 18/11/2011 do you mind clarifying the bold print?TIA Also I fail to understand the refrence of being born in usa in connection to attending american curric. based school overseas.Must be thick brains day today... GOOSE: Are we being a little touchy about the one child in the classroom being born in USA versus holding the passport comment? The post was for AMERICAN MOMS so my assumption was that she was interested in schools that offer the most AUTHENTIC american education and advice from an AMERICAN MOM. What is your position exactly in this conversation. Were you trying to be helpful or just looking for trouble? Children that are actually from the country that invented the curriculum would lend to the experience and offer an advantage in the classroom now wouldn't they? So would being taught by teachers that also have first hand knowledge of the curriculum aka come from the country. My brain is not thick as you suggested (telling me that you are not American because we would never make a comment like that) but your tongue is particularly rude. edited by americanfamily3 on 19/11/2011 Well said American Mom of 3. The saying goes, "Boredom breeds mischievous." Many here need a hobby, a real hobby. Perhaps something outdoors and physical to rid themselves of anger and aggression. Albeit entertaining at times, it is somewhat a guilty pleasure to read. However, sometimes so nasty and mean spirited is more closely described as, watching a train wreck. Shame though that women can be so mean to one another. Not just in this post, I am generalizing (yes, I used a "z", pure indication that I am American). This grammar difference and many others doesn't make one or another wrong, just educated different. Hence, my original question on this forum specifying American Moms. Edited to fix a rushed spelling error, "Boredom breads mischievous." Ha. Must've been a thick brains ;0) day for me too and then I see it today months later. <em>edited by Encore on 31/05/2012</em>
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 December 2011 - 06:15
That was one of the best fireworks display I have ever seen. It was indeed loud enough to make one think we were under attack by some ferocious, unnatural beast. But, beautiful nonetheless.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 December 2011 - 06:12
You commit to your solution. That is a great start with any challenge.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2011 - 19:41
Has she on antibiotics recently? Antibiotics disrupt the "natural chemistry" and sometimes cause a yeast infection. Nothing a little yogurt and sometimes a bit of medicine cant sort right out. Rule that out first of all. Also, little girls dont always get themselves as clean as one would hope. I think it is part of their learning curve (and ours). Completely normal to be a little itchy down there sometimes.... nice warm shower cleanse and perhaps a little diaper rash cream might help.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 December 2011 - 16:46
Ace Hardware has quite a bit.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 08:24
Personally, I used to be phone chatter...talk, talk, talk. But, here that would cost me my savings. So, now I just want to make my life easier with text and access to the internet for information, emails and ability to make lists. I hear BBM is free amongst the many users. Then, iphone users argue that their phones are capable by means of a miracle "app" to communicate with BBM. And then the argument over service providers starts... I find the whole process of this silly decision exhausting. Rant over. Mostly, I would like to freely chat via text with my USA friends and family most economically for them and me.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 08:09
@Greenish, your response was outstanding. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I totally agree with everything you so eloquently stated.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:58
Perhaps, the recommendation might be to rinse it more frequently...every 6 hours?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:52
"anyone can breed" that is too funny, not "Haha" funny but, funny, funny and sad because it is true. :(
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:49
I have a fine dining book for this yr, its hardly used..I had 2... anyone want to make an offer..to buy it off me, you only need to use it 2 times and ur in front I am in JLT..Marina area.. edited by mysterylady on 18/11/2011 Mystery Lady: What do you think is fair price for a book with a few weeks left?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:47
Come on someone please dish your goodies on mobile....:)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:45
Yes. I believe one of my roles as a Parent is to provide my children with my ideal childhood. We sure try ;0)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 November 2011 - 07:42
I have been following this thread as an option for myself. The GYN concern interests me. Perhaps there are a couple ladies heading to theirs soon that could inquire and share their doctors thoughts. It was my understanding of the device that the fluid drops away from the cervix and into the cup. Then sits inside the cup until emptied. I dont see how that could be any worse of effect than the fluid being absorbed into a dense and dry cotton tampon and sitting. Just my un-expert opinion. I would very interested in a female Doctors opinion ;0)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 09:45
My Husband got security and we stood by while they denied it. We then walked over and and said, "yes, they did. We watched and want you boys to know we ARE watching and it is NOT okay to behave like that." The reason why I posed the question is while I was waiting for security and while the poor display was unfolding, multiple people just walked past. They noticed and kept walking. I love kids, most of all mine. So, we responded for two important reasons; We wanted our children to know that behavior is not okay and Second, we wanted the other children to know their behavior is not okay and we won't ignore them. Poor, powerless security.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 08:52
Thanks to this post... the Birds of Prey show just got moved to the top of our list of things to do.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 08:51
Yesterday late afternoon, we were walking towards the building pools for some swimming with the kids. We walked past the pool that closes early and a group of 4 teenage boys that had scaled the fence were swimming. As we walked past, our children inquired why we couldn't swim right there. Of course we told them that pool was closed and those boys were being naughty. As if right on cue, one boy age 12ish started throwing the plastic pool furniture into the pool, the others then started throwing the furniture out of the pool and across the pool decking. There is the scene. What would you do?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 08:45
I was excited to see this post. We have been considering new phones with plans. Hopefully, someone here can share a few details of their favorite plan.... pretty please. To qoute Delvin, "was hoping you could advise and save me a whole lot of donkey work" (that was perfectly said)