KellsBells | ExpatWoman.com
 

KellsBells

730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:29
Great idea Gleek... PS. Please email me. Been trying to get hold of you. Deleted all my emails, have your landline no but it doesn't seem to work. Get DH on to it Shelly. And Doodles, get your DH into it if he isn't already ;-)
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:23
Was last night Shell. Ours is dowloaded and ready to go!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:22
So it will most likely be the topic of conversation over our brekkie/lunch tomorrow then!?! Yes Doodles. It kicked off yesterday on the States.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:21
It's repeating the same info over and over again on the same thread that drives me mad. Ermmm... How is this EW's problem exactly?
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:18
Please tell me I'm not the only one dying to sit down to it tonight!!! I can't wait. Hated Coach but quite keen to see what crazy antics he has for us this season. Was quite an Ozzy fan, but don't think he'll have what it takes. Bring on 7:30 when the little mites are in bed and I can sit down to a glass of grapes and enjoy. Who'll be joining me?
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 12:49
You'll never win. I actually thing it's a good idea to repost some things. You'll always get different and new/updated responses that way. I think it's one of the very reasons EW is the encyclopedia of Dubai that it is.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 11:34
Lol. Was just having a go at the "level" expected ;-) Great. Email me bellsdxbATGmaildotcom
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 11:32
She's around ;0) she did indeed escape some of the summer... But thank goodness she decided to return. Hehehe I'll point her to this thread.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 10:22
How social is social? lol I used to play 10 years ago...not great, but not hopeless... I'd be interested. I'm in Saheel.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 10:02
Angie, where about in Dubai are you? I have a great sling you are welcome to, and I was also going to offer some help. I'm by no means an expert...but I have been in your shoes and I can totally relate to your posts. Eldest DS has just started school and DH is on leave, so i was thinking I could pop over and help you for a few hours in the morning if you like? Let me know if you are interested and I'll post my email address.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 09:58
I can't seem to find the detailed thread from ages ago. But if you google it you will see that it's quite common. I co slept with my first DS and it worked great for us. There are many websites/books out there on safe co-sleeping. Good luck
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 09:55
There was one in MCC, but it looked very sparce the last time I saw it...so the chances of it also having been closed down are quite good. But worth a try.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 09:08
If you can afford it, I'd suggest getting a personal trainer for a few weeks. You're doing the cardio workout but you may just need some variations and some core strenght moved to help you in other areas. If that's not an option for you, maybe try the 30 day shred with Jilian Michaels. I've done it a few times (though never the full 30days) and I find it really helps shift te weight from areas I never managed to with mornal cardio exercise. Good luck. I think you've done brilliantly so far.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 20:17
I rememever Reading up on it a while back and somewhere (maybe a parenting forum in the UK) I read how simple it was to remove one side of the IKEA cot and attach it to your bed. I'll see if I can find any info for you. At first I thought it was risky and unsafe...but it was a pretty well thought out solution.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 20:04
I these were my neighbours I would be able to type here what I would have said and done to them by now. Well done for keeping your cool. But they are taking the p1ss and you shouldn't have to put up with this.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 20:02
Agree with AdviceSeeker. Especially as they are newbies, moving in to an established community would probably make their settling in that much easier. And defo Saheel over Palmera. More villa for your money.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 20:09
Thanks for the useful sites shyzie, just about to check them out now that the troops are asleep and I can actually sit at the computer ;-) hmmm... I am totally aware these groups do exist. I worked as a nanny here in Dubai and attended many of these such groups with my charges. It's just a risk I'm not willing to take though, not with the fines I could face and even worse-putting DH's job on the line. Not throwing stones, just saying, it's not for me. I really don't fancy the idea of doing it in a rented area either though. Can u do it through schools? That may be an option I'd consider. Thanks again for all your helpful comments everyone.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 19:28
H.A.K...going completely off topic, well, sort of - but, have you ever thought of starting a parenting style blog?
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 18:55
Yes. Hit n miss but I'm sure it was more often a hit then a miss. Enjoy!!! Oh, don't go for the cod, it's small and over cooked. Go for the hamour. HUGE portions. My tummy is grumbling.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 15:29
And I would still have to get the virtual visa? Any idea how much rent these places would charge? Dammit. Really liked the idea of doing it from home and having a coffee break for the mums afterwards while the little ones played a bit. Oh well. Thanks for your help ladies.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 14:50
I understand, virtual visas or not, the only people who are legally entitled to work from home are Emirati women. Also, if you are workign from home you would need to check your liability insurance..... Hmm...was affraid someone may say that. Arg...
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 September 2011 - 21:57
At this age group (in fact most kids!) I like cupcakes. This was my first thought... I would cover a large piece of MDF in blue paper for the water. Then put clear contact on top. Crush biscuits and shape it into a giant 2 to look like a sandy island. Then top with say yellow iced cupcakes (matte fondant looks cleanest) put the cupcakes on the 2 for as many kids as you have. Refrigerate a packet of guylian chocolates and once hard cut them in half as they're all shell shapes and top the cupcakes. Except for the middle two cakes which you can put a chunky pink candle on each? You could even make all the cupcakes pink there are no real rules! Just so long as you make an extra batch for the adults, I usually do mini's for the mumma's watching their weight! Just a thought, good luck :) Just LOVE your idea Dan Lou. Any fun ideas on a Teddy Bears Picnic theme for a 1 year old DS...greatly appreciated!!!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 September 2011 - 19:30
Also happy to puppy sit. My boys would be thrilled to have a pup, they love animals, and so do we. We are thinking of getting a dog of similar size so it may be a good "tester" for us. I'm home most days and if I'm out my DH or maid is home and there is no doubt your princess will get the cuddles and affection she needs. Email me if u like bellsdxbATGmaildotcom
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 September 2011 - 12:37
Wow. Sorry you got the response you did. I too have followed you on FB and think the work you do is great. Can u give me an idea of numbers? I'd have to check with DH first, but I wouldn't mind letting you use my garden. Email me if you like. BellsdxbATGmaildotcom
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 September 2011 - 09:56
Try crystalized Ginger. It helped take the edge off for me. Have you tried those wrist bands for travel sickness? Eat and drink small amounts often. Smell a slice of lemon. Suck on some ice. Chew gum. If all else fails get some stronger meds, there are some available...about 10dhs a tablet but worth it when you feel bleurgh day after day. Good luck.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 21:57
Oh if u find any Mario toys... Please let us know where. DS is OBSESSED!!!!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 21:55
I've been thinking the same (well, about the influx of new usernames anyways) and I just assumed that I had missed a mass banning while i was away!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 15:01
To those who switch A/C's off... Is this even now and in the hight of summer?
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 14:59
Also know the villas you mean but no idea either. Maybe knock on a door and ask someone, they should be in a VERY good mood now that their once putrid villa will become lovely ;-)
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 11:09
Sorry to hear this Office chick. Thinking of you. HUGS
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 11:07
Aahhh...they could very well be different then. If you don't mind asking her that would be great. Thanks.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 10:56
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending you HUGS and STRENGTH. RIP to your fury friend and to the young man too. So sad. Have you read the poem "Rainbow Bridge"? Google it, it may help warm your soul.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 10:52
Sarah where in the Ranches do you stay. We're in Saheel. Just wondering if the different developments have different AC units. If not, I desperately need to find out how to put mine on AUTO!!!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 10:38
Ladies I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks this is a ludicrous amount. We do have a big garden to water but surprisingly it was our electricity that was stupidly high. We have never payed more then 2000dhs prior to moving to the Ranches. Something that concerns me, the A/C's. In all our old villa's there was an option to set the A/C's to an auto mode. Which meant they would come on and off as required, to keep the room at the selected temperature. However it seems these LG units only have the option to blow continously, now I don't know if it's the reason our electricity consumption was so high, but in my mind it surely can't be as cost effective. And it drives me nuts to have the fan blowing continously. Bring on the winter when they can all be switched OFF!!!!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 09:34
Do a search for this, it has been discussed at great length on the bumps n babes forum, about a year ago. How many weeks are you know? I would suggest chatting to your OBS at Medcare and see how he/she feels regarding this. Let me know if you dont find the threads, I'll find them and post them on here for you.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 09:32
Ours was 5000...first ever bill here so glad to see it's the norm. Yaikes, think we need to get some grass paved. lol DH seems to think it's a fair price to pay, me - I'd rather be spending it on sparkly diamonds. hehehe
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 18:29
We've had water all day, also in Saheel.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 17:13
The Zoggs "Bobbin" comes in different sizes. They are fab.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 17:10
This one is fantastic!! http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/food/recipes/chicken-with-creamy-mushrooms-535303/ Yummo!!! That's tomorrow nights dinner sorted. Thanks ;-)
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 22:32
2 please. And make it White, no butter... I'm watching my figure. I hve bought DD and I matching Armani dresses for our brunch this Friday. After which we may head down to Mamzar beach ;-)
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 22:26
Oh my aching sides!!!! Truly sad that any one could think this way but man oh man... "bread" was the complete end of me.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 21:41
Check out the As Is section in IKEA, there is more often then not, on of them there.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 21:39
Villa 1 for sure. Sounds like it ticks more boxes and like u say, you can add a pool cheaply enough and tick that box too. Plus, it cheaper and if by location u mean closer to shops, school and or work....you'll be saving money and time there too which is great.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2011 - 13:49
Lol. Officechick I'm guessing youre preggers ;-) I craved Maccas everday when pregnant with with DS no 2.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2011 - 12:45
12 years between us (he's older) and after 6 years I still think i made the best decision ever ;-)
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2011 - 12:00
Do you think maybe You get the 60 day option if you sponsor privately or through DH's company rather then use a hotel/airline? I think Emirates are the only airline that give sponsorship of visa (if that's the correct term). So eventhough the air fare may cost more, if you want to bypass not having to do it yourselves, it's worth the extra dosh.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2011 - 08:00
Ping your best bet is to phone the office in PTA and ask, they were always the most helpful. Back in the day when I was travelling to and fro...I think it was a 30 day visa, extendable by another 30 for roughthly 600dhs. Not sure if u can still do that though. Some people have come on a 30, overstayed and not been charged/fined, but I personally wouldn't chance it as 100dhs a day for overstay could get pretty steep. It's such a pain and a real shame we can't do much on our green mamba passport. More of my famiy would come out if there were no added visa issues :-(
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 September 2011 - 23:32
If your gut instincts aren't right... Don't go ahead. We were in a very similar situation with a Sri lankan lady and her sister. In the end I ignored my gut instinct and gave her a chance as I felt sorry for her. Very costly mistake indeed. You need to be 100% sure. And if you are leaving her to care for your children-good english is a MUST!
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 September 2011 - 21:42
I would consult my paed and if he agreed I would give DS a motilium suppository shortly after take off. Or any other form of anit nausea medication. Be careful though, some anti nausea meds make children drowsy...which may seem like a great idea but it is not recommended these days.
730
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 September 2011 - 21:37
Wait a few days and test again. Do it first thing in the morning. Or if you really are anxious, get to a clinic and have a blood test done. Hope it's a BFP for you Hun.