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LDC

205
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 15:12
Mmmm, it's difficult to start up a small business here. Catch 22 all over. You need a license to sell anything and also premises. You are not allowed to reside in your place of business. You can't even run a business from home, if you get caught it's a heavy fine and your sponsor (hubby's company) is notified. I've looked into it several times and have never found a way yet. There are people that are selling things from home but it is illegal here. If anyone finds a way round it I would love to know.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 15:03
or my "darling" cat waking me up at 3 am by sneezing in my face...... bless Ha ha.... I love that. Our bedroom is off limits to our 'boy' so we don't have that one.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 14:59
Thank you. Will call tomorrow, hopefully they can accomodate me soon. Did you manage to get an appointment.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 14:58
Wow.... 50 Dhms..... that's great! Shame I'm not a make up person.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 14:55
There's a complex of apartment and villas just opposite Dubai City Centre, most of the villas are hidden but the prices are really good. I think the agent is Dubai International Real Estate. Hope this helps
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 14:42
We have 4 and a craft = 5.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 00:20
Has anyone heard about the make up box that is delivered to your door on a monthly basis. It has all the well known brands and I believe that you sign up to join, pay a small fee and give feedback on the products. Not sure what they call it as my friends mentioned it to me and as I don't wear a lot of make up thought that it wasn't for me. I could find out what the name of the company is though if anyone is interested.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 00:09
Thank you. Will call tomorrow, hopefully they can accomodate me soon. Make sure you ask for Dr. Rustom though.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 September 2012 - 00:06
I use Dr. Rustoms Address Jumeira 1, Behind Jumeira Plaza and Dubai Commercial Bank Villa 41 P.O.Box 333423 Dubai Tel: +971-4-349-8800 Fax: +971-4-344-8767 Web: www.skin-and-laser.com Have been going to him for years for annual skin checks. I like him because he's totally honest. We pay the consultancy fee and have often had little skin tags removed or suspicious looking moles lased and he hasn't charged any more than the consultancy fee. He's also given us advise what shampoo and skin care ranges we should use. Hope this helps.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 23:56
I would also go with smart fitness. The chaps are well qualified and are always updating their qualifications. They really work you hard but the benefits are fantastic. They will give you an assessment first and usually a complimentary workout, will also come to your gymnasium which is handy. You can pay for individual sessions or it works out a bit cheaper if you pay for a block of ten.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 23:22
I noticed when I could swim and there wasn't a pool to be seen nearby. Phew.... it's those hot flushers I found the worse, Dubai is the worst place to go through the hot flush stage as all you want to do is take your clothes off and keep cool.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 21:28
The other problem with France is that if you have a property in the UK and also buy another in France then the government is going to hit you with a additional tax now. Livelytrish..... would love your suggestions on where to buy in Cyprus and a good agent?? Do you know why so many expats are leaving??
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 19:27
We pay 75 Dhms per month and are in a 4 bedroom villa.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 19:08
Hello flowerhead... we also looked in France and have expat friends that live in France. The trouble is if you don't speak French then it becomes a problem. Especially in retirement, if you are ill and in hospital it's good to know the language!!!.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 17:12
I think there are problems with Northern Cyprus after the invasion. Original owners fled to the South and their properties sold on. Now the European court has said they have to be given back. I wouldn't buy in the North until the whole matter is cleared up.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 17:03
Livelytrish.... we are currently looking at Cyprus in the Polis/Latchi areas. We have already been to Cyprus a couple of times but recently many expats are leaving (not sure why). Do you have any suggestions where to base a property search and which agency to use? We were also put off by the 'Title Deed' problems. I've heard that many developers built using bank loans then when the bottom fell out of the market and the villas didn't sell the banks wouldn't approve the issuance of 'Title Deeds' making any property without left wide open to confiscation from the banks. Would appreciate your input.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 16:30
As DH and I are both British we can go back to the UK, he still pays tax, I don't as I'm a DH/Social Calander Manager. After 30 years in the Middle East the UK doesn't feel like it could be home. Our children and grandchildren are still around the Middle East so we wouldn't like to be too far away from them. Buying a villa in Dubai? I don't think that residency visas are given now with property and the property is only guaranteed for ten years. Then there is the question of health, you cannot grow old in Dubai if you are an expat as you need a clean bill of health for a visa. I think staying in any Gulf country would find the same issues... visa, medical, etc. I'm sure other long term expats must be facing the same question.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 15:50
Not thinking of that at all :p Staying put here lol How do you manage to 'stay put' in Dubai if you retire?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 15:49
There are plenty of places to go, UAE is certainly not the only option. Are you talking about post-retirement? Mmm, we plan to retire probably next year. Don't really want to leave the Middle East as it's been our home for the past 30 years and our kids are still around the gulf. But I don't know anyone who has managed to stay in Dubai in retirement, many have tried but they have all ended up having to leave eventually. We've looked at many countries and nothing makes us that excited that we want to board a plane and even have a look!! Don't want to go back to the UK as we have been in the Middle East longer. But where do you go??? It's a problem
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 00:06
There used to be a place on Plant street, Satwa years ago. Not sure if they will buy the books from you or just let you do an exchange. Hope this helps
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 September 2012 - 00:45
The best selection I've seen is in http://www.petlanduae.com There are also several styles in Ace Hardware.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 September 2012 - 00:30
First ask yourself..... when will he use his Man bag? For an excellent business look, I love your idea re: Mont Blanc. The quality and finish is superb and you can always match other items to it for Christmas or birthday treats. For casual try Timberland, again the leather is really nice quality but more of the rugged and casual look. and the 3rd option is to go direct to the 'Apple' retail store in Ibn Batutta Mall, China Court they cater for all types of bags especially for the I Pad/Notebook.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 September 2012 - 00:18
My husband made an appointment in London, flew in one day collected a renewal form from the airport post office, completed the form in his hotel room (close to the passport office) and renewed his passport the next day and was on that evenings flight back to Dubai. I hear they also provide the same service in Belfast and Liverpool.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 September 2012 - 23:50
I have several old acne scars. On one of our annual skin checks with our Dermatologist I asked him about laser or peels to remove the scars or improve them and he advised against it advising that it wouldn't help at all. He could have talked me into an expensive treatment at his clinic there and then so I was very impressed by his honesty. The two things I have noticed make a difference to the texture to my scars are: 1) La Mer oil 2) Johnson Walnut and Soy Oil Each person has different type of skin though so what works for one person may do more harm to another. The best thing to do is to get proper medical advice from a qualified specialist at one of the hospitals. Beauty salons are NOT trained medical specialists, don't be conned into any hard sell treatments. and.... please do not get upset with me for saying this..... but no way should you be hiding any treatments from your mum. Your comment as below ''Because if I do get it I'd have to do it withot my mum realizing'' I know it's difficult and I really wish there was an immediate cure but for now just get the 'best' professional advice you can and follow their advice.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 21:42
Are these just another 'shoe' gimmick? I watched the Olympics and didn't see anyone wearing anything like a barefoot option. Your thoughts ladies.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 21:38
Katnip, that is a very good price. I may just pay Lulu a visit. Do you use it a lot? I don't bake so not sure if it's worth buying when I have all the items I need individually.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 13:05
My list of special treats: 1) Afternoon tea or evening cocktails at the Burj Al Arab. 2) Cleopatra's Spa, the Elemis products are amazing. 3) Bra fitting at TKD + purchase of a set (this whole experience is so (uplifting) LOL (it really does change how you see and feel about yourself) 4) Helicoptor/Sea Plane flight around Dubai 5) Evening sunset cruise 6) Moet Champagne brunch at Spectrum On One (not into brunches myself but this is exceptional) Hope this helps Would also like to here other EW ladies 'must do's'
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 12:49
There must be a few of these..... This is the one I have seen on my travels and have been meaning to go and have a look but alas haven't managed to go yet. http://www.localsearch.ae/en/profile/direct-hotel-supplies/dubai/941948936909419489369259/ It is located very close to Marina Furniture store on the Al Barsha road running next to Mall of Emirates. Please post what you think if anyone visits this place. Thanks
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 12:36
Hi, was also looking for one. If it's the one on Dubizzle that is mentioned for sale for 500 Dhms on Business Bay then it has already been sold. I love the Kenwood Cooking chef (the one that cooks) but having priced it in Jashamal it's just too expensive at the moment. You really need to think long and hard with these things and decide 'exactly' what you want to use it for. They are very expensive. In the end I decided just to get the new Kenwood Tri Blade @ 569 Dhms. I already have a separate Kenwood 'huge' juicer. Separate Blender (Campomatic) which I swear by. I really only wanted an attachment for cutting, chopping and slicing therefore, didn't see the need to go out and spend a 'lot' of money on one of these machines (Kitchen Aid, Kenwood Chef etc) when I already have what I am happy with individually. I often found when looking at these machines there was always something that I wasn't happy with (yes, I'm picky) the size of jug for blending, the funnel for juicing wasn't large enough, plastic attachments (yuk) I like my items to be stainless or glass and hate plastic!! Buying separately each for the specific purpose has worked for me. However, I would like an individual mixer + bowl that I can remove the handle of the mixer from the bowl like you see the professional chefs using. Anyone know what make these are?? I purchased a Stainless tower from Ikea and all my kitchen tools are individually housed on the tower, much easier and lighter then moving around a big multi function machine. However after saying all of the above, I would still love this: The Kenwood Cooking Chef, take a look at this.... http://www2.kenwoodworld.com/uk/KenwoodCookingChef/Home1/
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 23:18
Check out the Dubai labour law first and then ask to see a copy of what they say you signed. Also ask them for the Ministry of Labour number. If everything is as they say they will have no problems in giving you a copy of the labour contract which they say you signed, shouldn't you have also had a copy too if that were the case?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 22:39
I use our local vet who also has boarding facilities. Al Barsha Vet Clinic. I always feel confident that being in the care of a vet whilst we are away helps us to enjoy our break away without wondering if our 'boy' will be OK.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 22:35
Wow... getting married in Ivory DM's, how excellent is that. Love DM's too and had many a pair over the years unfortunately, ended up in DD's closet. My hubby too would love to see the slender heels come out of the closet instead of my usual Timberlands or Desert boots!! A few companies now will ship free of charge if it's to an address in the UK. Use Aramex Shop & Ship, not forgetting to ensure you get a tracking number, advise the retailer that the parcels end destination is tax free and you should get a good deal.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 21:46
Saw the video clip whilst I was trying on the VFF's. As Bundles so rightly said you have to change your running technique if you change to Natural or Barefoot (VFF) running. How easy would it be to change a running style, not sure!! If it was me I'm sure I would (out of habit) keep reverting back to how I have always run and end up causing myself damage.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 21:40
I'm also waiting for feedback from the EW ladies to see if anyone has tried the Vibran Five Fingers. I love my Asics but am interested in the VFF's as they are reported to straighten out your toes (I have a bunion) not really bad but it rubs on most shoes. Went and tried VFF's and after doing more wriggling than a fish in water to try and get my toes in the things I gave up thinking I definitely wouldn't have the patience. Also at 800 Dhms a time they would have to work miracles. Any ladies that have tried the Vibran Five Fingers could you please let me know what you think of them positive or negative. Would appreciate it very much.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 21:31
The only place I have seen Dr Martens is in Karama and in Ibn Batutta Mall in the Catapillar shop.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 19:20
Hi Sunflowers, We are outdoors people too. We spend most of our time Geocaching, Sailing, Scuba diving, desert driving and camping, visit the malls occasionally only as it's not a pretty sight to see a grown man kicking and squeeling!! In the hottest part of the year June, July and August we head off down to the East coast, Mussandam or across the Omani border where it is cooler at weekends. Al Ain is wonderful and green and again nice and cool. This is also the time when there are excellent special hotel deals to be found to lure the people who haven't fled the summer heat. Check out the UAE Geocaching website and you'll see lots of activity happening here. Hope this helps
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 19:06
Try the supermarkets most expats 'don't go to Safestway, Lulu, Co-op. You could also give Picnico a call on the beach road, they are a camping shop and sell these.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 19:00
Go to Sharaf in Times Square, their showroom is huge and the selection good. I changed my Seimens gas 90 x 60 with 2 hobs for an Elba (Italian make) has five gas rings, I thought about it and realised that I never used the 2 hobs and would make better use of the 5th gas ring. I love my Elba, the quality is superb, the gas guards are a heavy iron rather then the lightweight flimsy chrome type. I also liked the glass lid, it was better quality than others on show. However, what I would be careful of is if you have children as the stainless steel knobs are turned on automatically and light quickly, I would be concerned in I had children in my villa near the cooker. Disappointed not to have been able to get the matching cooker hood but will keep trying. I agree with your sentiments entirely re: Ibn Batutta the same has happened to me before, now I go to Times Square.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:59
What about volunteering with animals? There is a villa/centre in Barsha that is always looking for volunteers and children love animals.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:57
Did you look in Sharaf in Time Square? They had similar last month Gas top and electric oven 90 x 60, Stainless though not sure if it had 2 hot plates.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:51
Not sure if the wand would work on your hubby's hair. Being short then maybe if not handled carefully you would see the colour on the scalp. I bought mine in either Boots or Geant. There were 3 colour wands especially for grey hair. I chose the lightest (Light Brown) as my hair is mousey blond and my grey is covered with a warm caramel colour that lasts until I wash it out. I prefer this to dyeing it every few months as my hair was falling considerably and I decided to try not using as many chemicals on my hair.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:41
We also use AAA in Al Qouz. They are probably the best mechanically we've tried over the years and we've tried a few. The Rashidiya AAA is better for modifications, panel repair etc as they have a Scottish manager.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:35
Satwa will have all of these..... there is a specialist shop that sells so many sewing items, it's really great. The quality is reasonable but by far better than anything else I've found for the price. If you want better quality than try Craftland in the Town Centre mall (upstairs) their items are of very good quality and their advice is excellent too. The also sell sewing machines, patterns, wool etc. Hold classes on a regular basis. Hope this helps.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:27
I find Karama not to be authentic (yes, go on laugh) even the trainers that look the part. The sole and the gel insert are not right. How to get our of a shop without buying: Look them straight in the eye and say thank you so much, you have been very helpful but: a) They are not right for me b) They are too expensive c) They are just not comfortable Don't feel bad, that is what customer service is all about. Never feel pressured into buying something that you don't feel is right!! Hope this helps
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 17:20
For my 40's moment I went on a EK holiday to Nepal. Took very little with me except a backpack. Climbed up to the Monastery in Katmandu, then went river rafting, on to Sechwan National Park to stay in very basic accomm. and view the wildlife, bathe elephants, etc. on to Lake Pokra and Everest (no climbing). Loved every minute and didn't feel at all threatened being on my own as Emirates holidays had a guide with me throughout the journey. Excellent for the self esteem. Hubby met me at the airport on my return and said I looked amazing but that I was in need of a good bath!! If you want to just chill there is no place better than Komandoo in the Maldives. The island is very small, no children policy. Go for the sea plane transfer and select a jacuzzi beach villa, snorkeling or diving on your doorstep on their house reef is amazing followed by a Coffee, Baileys, Bounty and bubbles in your own personal outdoor jacuzzi. (sheer bliss) Whatever you decide to do for your 40th enjoy, have a great time and make it something that is going to be an 'aha' moment!! Don't tell too many EW ladies or I guess you'll be inundated with offers to join you. Look forward to hearing all about it on your return.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 16:43
I get mine from Tyre Express on Al Wasl road. There are many branches so just choose one closest to you and give them a call.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 16:32
Why don't you give the 'Outlet Mall' a call and see if any of the Sports stores sell Asics and what price they are there??
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 16:21
I also have 'touches' of grey appearing at my temples which is fine when I wear my hair down but as soon as I pull it back it looks terrible. Have tried the colour route but don't like colouring too often especially out here. I now use the mascara wands for grey hair, choose the colour closest to my natural colour and apply that to the baseline where the grey appears then run my fingers through my hair and it lasts until the next wash covering most of the grey. gives a very natural look. Hope this helps.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 16:10
I pronounce it 'Aysics' but it's named Asics. My last pair was the TN749 F360509 PY style with Gel and bought them from Ibn Batutta Go Sport (2 years ago) and still going strong. The Asics pair prior to that, (a basic pair) is also still going strong after much wear. There appears to be more selection for ladies in Athletes foot and there is a young lady in there that seems quite knowledgeable on their products. Anyone tried the Vibran Five Fingers yet for running?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 15:50
expensive bags, shoes, glasses, dress? Good sunglasses, yes a definite must out here, wait until the sales are on and buy a decent pair then. Shoes: I have sooooo many 'fashion' shoes that are snug in their boxes and hardly ever worn!! Find myself wearing the same few 'comfortable' pairs. The exception being my sports shoes which I select after thorough research and care and am proud to say I always get my wear out of. Bags: I love my bags and have several designer pieces of which I use one on a regular basis. Dresses: Again, closet is full to the brim of designer 'stuff' but it's the same few outfits I wear most, those tend to be the comfortable casual one's, not designer but sporty Nike clothes. Perfume: Not sure if everyone is aware of this but perfume doesn't last very long once it's opened therefore, better to have just a couple of bottles for Day, Night and use them!! Cosmetics: Learnt over the years through wasting too much money to stick to one brand of tinted moisturiser that likes my sensitive skin and to stick to one brand of cosmetics. Jewellery: Again, have a safe full of the 'stuff' and wear only a few pieces. This was a great question for me as it made me look at what I 'really' need in life. How much time and money I've wasted on items to be left sitting, stored away and not used. My pledge today is to have a good clear out and get rid of the items I don't use or need and be ultra careful with my buying habits in future. Really appreciated this question, thank you!