lookin4inspiration | ExpatWoman.com
 

lookin4inspiration

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 December 2014 - 12:36
I like Creek Park for a lie down and do nothing outing, Mushrif for a picnic outing, Zabeel for an active outing (boat and train rides) and Barsha for let the kid ride his bike outing. Hope that explains all!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 00:43
What do you mean by the Garden Souk? Haven't heard of that before! I've found Satwa to be quite cheap. The shops are down the first street on your right after the Iranian hospital.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 00:38
My husband has resigned to move to another co. after working for over 2 years and has been asked to pay 100 dirhams as visa cancellation charges for himself and each member of our family who is under his sponsorship. Is this correct? I am wondering firstly, why he should have to pay to have his visa cancelled. Doesn't his company have to bear this cost? And secondly, why does he have to pay for our visas to be cancelled? Won't they automatically be invalid within a month of his visa being cancelled? Would really appreciate any response from anyone in the know or who've had a similar experience. TIA ladies!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 August 2014 - 23:31
I think its a perception thing. I feel eastern people are generally perceived as demanding more for their money than westerners who are seen to have more money at their disposal. I'm Indian and looking for a maid and am facing this issue right now. One woman honestly confessed that she'd heard Indian families don't let their maids rest! On the other hand I spoke to a maid who said her Canadian employer was overworking her. So you just can't put people into boxes. I plan to approach every maid with a schedule of daily duties so she knows full well what's expected of her and what breaks she's entitled to. And I don't plan to contact anyone who advertises as 'Westerners preferred'. I think its their loss.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 August 2014 - 18:21
Need some advice as to what I need to pay my maid- she has been with us for a year. Now we are relocating- her visa status is cancelled and looking for a new job. She has been excellent and I would have kept her on. What do I need to pay her when she leaves? She is Sri Lankan and I can recommend her highly if anybody is looking for a maid. We are actually looking for a Sri Lankan maid and would be grateful for any leads. Please email me her/your contact number at flyincyberspace at gmail dot com. TIA
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 August 2014 - 16:46
Me me! I need a maid! Can you please send me details or her number at flyincyberspace at gmail dot com. TIA
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2014 - 18:54
Maybe you have considered these aspects, so forgive me if you have.... 1. You cannot currently bring over a Phillipino maid. 2. Most Phillipinos who are already here working would not agree to work for an Indian family. 3. Have you considered hiring a Sri Lankan? Then your food issue would be solved. Most likely, you would have to train a Phillipino to cook Indian food and as we all know, cooking Indian food is not easy. 4. Lastly, if you do hire a Phillipino, don't make food an issue. Many people, myself included, have maids from very different cultures. Maids are used to preparing their own food. My maids are very picky so they cannot eat most of what we eat, including anything with milk and cheese! They come grocery shopping with me and choose what they need or add what they need to my never ending shopping list... I am aware of 1. thanks so we're not considering that. 2. Its not fair or always justly deserved but I can imagine why. 3. is also a strong contender except for the level of english. 4. So your maid's meals are included in their salary? Would you say that's more economical than an allowance?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2014 - 16:32
Hi, I'd be happy to have one if they're in good condition. Could you perhaps send me a pic at fly in cyber space at gmail dot com? TIA
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 June 2014 - 10:39
Is it a cash advance??? Not a merchant transaction (purchase)??? That's what I need to know. There's an article on today's National about remit2india.com which allows you to basically do the same thing but online. Question to anyone who has used this- does it appear as a cash withdrawal or merchant transaction? TIA
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 17:17
don't worry. When was your visa cancellation done (more or less than 30 days ago?) Hi TB. thanks for that. I might be worrying over nothing but I'd like to know for sure. About the visa cancellation: if it was cancelled, it will be less than a month so i'm not worried about the fine. Just the paperwork!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 14:50
Has your visa been cancelled? Normally when its cancelled you get a cancellation paper that you present to PP control at the airport as you go through and they stamp your visa cancelled. Otherwise, if your company hasnt cancelled your visa then its no problem at all... I don't know if my visa's been cancelled. How do I get this cancellation paper as the company has cancelled /will be cancelling my visa?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2013 - 10:40
Microwave sterilizing bags- always useful even if you plan on excl BF (can't remember the brand, sorry) Nursing bras
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2013 - 09:56
Tired33 you've been through so much for your husband, I believe you need to start thinking about yourself now and your little girl. My husband is melancholic too and sometimes brings a lively atmosphere down but he's aware of it and very apologetic about it and never makes excuses for himself. And he often tells me that I'm the best thing that happened to him, etc. So, NO, being depressed and unappreciative of you does not go hand in hand. It does sound like your husband has a real problem though and he should get help. But right now I'm thinking of you. I can't understand how you've gone through so much for so long by yourself. You really are made of tough stuff! Don't worry about life after. Its better to be alone and content till the end of your days than to be with someone and so terribly sad. Afterall, we don't know how long we will live. I'm not advising you to divorce your husband at all. Just start thinking about yourself and what you need. Your life is far from over! Your husband seems beyond your help and beyond his own ability to help himself. So if counseling is not an option, I don't know what options he has left. Would you both be open to a trial separation while he seeks professional help? It might be the wake up call he needs but more importantly, it would give you a fresh perspective on your relationship. He sounds like he has given up on life and is just going through one day at a time and happy to have you along for the comfort. Afterall doesn't misery love company? Its not right! Marriages take so much work- tell him that the next time he tries to give you his version of what marriages are like. My heart goes out to you Tired33. I will pray for you. I hope that now that you've taken this step of opening your heart out, you keep up the momentum and take a stand on your situation. Don't go back into the state of extreme tolerance that you have made a way of life for so long. I hope you get more advice from this forum but take everything we tell you after careful consideration. Its quite empowering when people respond and tell you what to do but only you have the bird eye view. All the best.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 July 2013 - 11:26
I'm currently looking for second hand toys/nursery furniture and visit dubizzle daily but not much luck so far. You don't have to advertise all your stuff- just the interesting bits and when people come to see those, you can try to upsell. If you have a LOT of stuff to sell then the flea market at DWTC on the 2nd may be a good option if you don't mind the 320dhs fee. BOL.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 13:52
Massage your scalp and hair with hair oil (I like Vatika Naturals). Leave it to soak in for an hour or so before shampooing off. Don't overdo the hair oil or the shampooing.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 13:49
Hi Admin, I think the 'Match exact phrase' option in the search window isn't working. It seems to throw up results with all the words in the search description and not the exact phrase. Or am I doing something wrong?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 13:39
Wow! Thanks everyone for all the DETAILED replies. I think between you, you have covered- testing for pregnancy, costs- with and w/o insurance and the important scans. Basically everything I need to know. Janatks- So sorry about your baby! Don't know what else to say...But thanks so much for sharing. Its made up my mind about scans.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 11:26
From Burj take the Business Bay crossing onto the Al Ain road. Once you pass under the Nad Al Shiba overpass, look out for the next overpass- this is the Emirates Road. You will need to exit the Al Ain road and get onto this overpass but stay to your right as the next exit is for SO. HTH!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 13:36
You won't have a problem with however much EBM you carry. Just make sure to keep it in a dedicated bag. Your ice pack etc, will be fine too. Just be prepared to taste it. Also make sure you're carrying baby through security and not hubby. I would also recommend carrying some baby formula. I ran out of EBM in flight as I fed baby as we were taking off (or so I thought) and then again when we were actually taking off and whenever he cried inflight (suspected it was the cabin pressure affecting his ears) which seemed to settle him. Which meant I ran out of EBM pretty fast and couldn't use my electric pump as the toilet was mostly occupied. Had carried along my manual but it was a nightmare pumping while sitting in my seat with a shawl thrown over! While that was a really long flight, you should be prepared for delays.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 14:34
Thanks ladies you've been fab!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 12:47
I can't help with brands because it depends on a lot of things, but I can suggest you use a primer before and then the fundation (which I suggest it to be a BB Cream type of), it will look beautifull. Er...what's a primer? Do you mean a moisturiser or concealer?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 12:46
I have the same problem and have looked high and low for good size bumpers (he bangs his head even while he's awake and sitting up in bed) that cover the entire length of the bars. Someone here on EW mentioned Wonder Bumpers http://www.gomamagodesigns.com/wonder-bumpers and while these are expensive, they make the most sense! Am considering buying them or maybe even getting them made/making them myself.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 12:33
Sally Hansen Nail hardener polish works great. The blue bottle is especially good for very soft and flaky nails. I second Sally Hansen. I use the pink bottle though. Its called 'hard as nails' with nylon.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 March 2013 - 13:40
Assuming she's weaning baby slowly (dropping one feed at a time every few days), my advice would be: Don't wait till baby is hungry to offer her the bottle as she'll be less likely to try something new when she's impatient to be fed. Don't stress it as babies seem to be really good at sensing stress. If she doesn't take the bottle, readily offer the breast. Keep the bottle ready while nursing and after burping baby instead of putting her back to the breast offer her the bottle. If she plans to go back to work but would like baby to have breastmilk, might be a good idea to invest in a breast pump. That way she can also tempt baby with the bottle by offering expressed breast milk. Ensure she's using the correct bottle teat (in terms of flow and shape) for baby's age. Tell her to be confident it will happen. Just needs time and patience. HTH!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 March 2013 - 13:24
A friend got herself fitted either at M&S or Debenhams; can't remember which. Maybe you can try both to see if you get the same size? I've used http://www.nursingbra-shop.co.uk/ and found them to be really good on delivery and quality. They have all the good brands and are cheaper than the shops here. HTH
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 February 2013 - 13:15
Thanks for the tips! I have already tried a couple with limited success. Really hoping that someone has read the book though and can share their experience...
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 February 2013 - 13:11
I think your best bet would be to keep calling the driving school head office whenever you have a problem and try getting them to resolve it. That's what we did. Even when the instructor told us they wouldn't be able to help, they more often than not were. Oh and if you do find someone helpful on the other end, remember the name as you might be needing their help again. BOL!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 00:51
Yes we took a loan within a month of movin to Dubai. It was with the bank that holds my DH's salary account so maybe that's why.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 20:43
Try Boots.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 11:30
Oh! That's good then! :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 11:26
I had an implant done and am quite pleased with it. It hasn't given me any trouble at all. No pain during flying or cold weather or drinking hot/cold drinks. Don't remember the operation being particularly painful except that immediately afterwards I was gagging quite a lot because of the cotton in my mouth. So you might want to prepare for that? Only complaint is that the false tooth didn't fit very tightly against an adjoining tooth so I now have to use an interdental brush after eating. You shouldn't have that problem if your dentist is very good. Also it looks just like my other teeth. Am also using a single denture and wouldn't recommend it- too fiddly. I didn't get my implant done in Dubai so can't answer any questions with regard to costs, dentist etc.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 11:15
We paid 200 pp with Arabian Nights. I thought the dune bashing was pretty rough and couldn't imagine bringing along my 1 yr+ son but I saw a few families with older children who appeared quite calm! If you're planning to take your children though I think it would be best if you prepared for really cold weather and wind.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 10:50
Just wanted to let everyone know that we received a call from the RTA saying that the driver had been sent for training. We aren't very impressed but won't be pursuing this any further because we just don't have the mental space for this. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences though. It has certainly opened our eyes and I think next time this happens we will be less upset and more proactive!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 10:42
I think someone mentioned that you MAY regret not having children but you DEFINITELY won't regret having them. I second this. I think people who really don't won't children just know it. Or could it be that they only appear confident so that other people don't give them a hard time about it? All this reminds me of something my mum told me when I was a child which still hold true now, "If you're wondering if something is good or bad, then its probably bad". Maybe OP you could apply this to the question at hand and see what you come up with? As in, "If I'm wondering whether to have kids or not, it means I should probably....". Might reveal the state of your mind. Also, we could probably approach this question from a different angle. Its not what having children can do for you but what can you offer a child. I always knew that I would be able to offer love but had serious doubts about my ability to be patient. I was confident however that my DH would be able to offer both as he was/is always very patient with me. Turns out I can offer both! Financial security was always on the list but not very high up as I come from a middle class background and my parents weren't able to give me FS but I always had lots of love. That said, we've certainly become less spendthirft as parents so we can save more. I'm trying not to share my experiences/feelings as a mother so as not to muddy the water any further (after all you've not asked for our experience just how to tackle the question) but this is just what I would say to you or any friend if you were sitting across the couch from me!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 02:00
How much money are you talking about? Not much - the cabbie wanted 50 bucks instead of the 30 bucks we pay for the usual route. But its not the money that matters is it? Its the principle of the thing.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 21:40
We have made a complaint with the RTA and have been given a case number. Will update if anything comes out of this.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 21:37
I think he shouldn't have paid, but if the cops tell you to do so, do it. But then, if he refused to give the receipt in order for you to get the money back, don't pay. Let him call the cops again. edited by Marroosh on 27/01/2013 Agreed. This would have been the best course of action
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 21:31
Can i have some of what you are on..... TIA :) I could do with some too! Seriously though, I really admire your attitude Popo, And wish you all the best. Though if you do find work soon, will you please come back and let us know? It might be the shot in the arm that I need. I've been hearing of how long its taking so many people that I might be becoming complacent! (Its been 4 months and counting)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 14:10
Thanks Cheery pie. Somehow its a comfort knowing we're not the only ones to fall for this. In hindsight, DH feels he should have not paid at all when the guy refused to give him a receipt but he was making such a scene and DH hates making a scene. I have read other posts here on EW regarding problems with taxis but none of them seem to be about a fare problem and what to do when you don't have a receipt. Maybe just swallow the bitter pill and put it down to experience?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 22:55
bump!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 22:55
Thanks everyone for all the replies and the laughs! Won't be washing my mince from now on! To answer some of the questions here- yes it does get VERY messy and some of it goes through the holes in the colander. I've been thinking better waste a little waste than catch a stomach bug. DUH! And it never tastes as good as...well...as mince is supposed to taste but I just put it down to me not adding the correct amount of flavouring. Its a good thing I haven't been cooking that long. And because my mince never tastes that good anyway, I haven't cooked it too often. This has been a timely intervention!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 January 2013 - 11:43
My DS had severe eczema too as a baby and Aveeno lotion worked wonders on him. However, before we discovered Aveeno, his eczema had flared up to such an extent that one patch began weeping. Steroid cream cleared that up. So I would recommend using a steroid to bring any bad patches under control and then use Aveeno (2-3 times a day should be fine). If you can't get Aveeno, Dermaveen is also oatmeal based.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 12:20
I don't know but may I suggest you put a toothpick thru?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 12:10
Treatment will often be the same regardless so why bother with blood as routine? A throat swab maybe a completely useless option next time your lo is sick. Lolacat I was objecting to your point about treatment being the same for viruses and bacteria (oh how we do go on about antibiotics and viruses, huh?) . I do agree that blood tests shouldn't be routine but in situations where the child has had fever for a few days already it makes no sense to me to try out an antibiotic and wait and see. I'd rather have the blood test done. As to the throat swab, if its a useless option, I'm sure the doctor will tell me. But I'd suggest it anyway if it can save my Lo the pain of a blood test.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 22:19
Treatment will often be the same regardless so why bother with blood as routine? Having gone thru this recently with my bub, I can honestly say that treatment is not the same. Antibiotics cannot be prescribed for a viral. In the case of a viral infection, you can only make the patient more comfortable not treat the infection. My DD had high fever that wasn't responding to Adol till late at night. We rushed him to Emergency and would you know it, his fever went down and we were told its a viral; come back if his fever continues for another 48 hours (no tests were done). His fever continued the next day so we took him to his regular doctor who prescribed a throat swab and a blood test. I agreed to the test but they couldn't get his vein and as the next step would mean squeezing out blood from his finger into a vial, I called a halt and decided to wait for the results of the throat swab. It turned out to be a bacterial infection so the doctor said there was no need to do the blood test and prescribed an antibiotic which thankfully worked. The long and short of it is that next time Dr suggests a blood test, I'll ask if a swab can be done but if he says 'no, the symptoms do not suggest a throat infection', I'll do the blood test. edited by lookin4inspiration on 13/01/2013 <em>edited by lookin4inspiration on 13/01/2013</em>
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:55
I actually feel exhausted typing this. Am so sorry for your trouble really, but that last bit made me smile. I get you! My DS is 16 months and has never slept through the night. Since my DH is working, it usually falls to me to put him back to sleep when he wakes up at night. And the only way I can do that is by giving him a feed. But DH (bless him) helps out by bringing baby to our bed and when he's done feeding, burping him and putting him back.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:46
(bump) Anyone?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 January 2013 - 14:28
Hi Dodo, Not the best time to visit as it'll be very hot- 32 degrees or thereabouts. Personally, I prefer the south of Goa to the north as the north can be very 'touristy'. The south has more scenic villages and way less crowded beaches. Otoh, if you're looking for lots to do, definitely choose the north. The Wednesday flea market at Anjuna is a must visit as is a trip to a spice farm. For an inexpensive stay, rent a beach shack. Basic but clean amenities. You can find good options either at the extreme north (Ashvem for eg) or extreme south (Agonda, Palolem). The starred hotels are absolutely fab too. Rent a bike if you can handle the crazy drivers (driving's on the left side like the UK) as you'll enjoy the place so much more. Lots and lots of options to eat wherever you are (but Goan food's the best) unless you're a vegan! A lot would depend on what kind of holiday you want (laidback or active) whether you have children, whether u want to take on all the sights or do something off the beaten path, etc.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 January 2013 - 14:09
hi there therefore, you will sign an employment contract with them... hth Thanks for the input dubai1990. I'm hoping for a few more spec details though like: Can they hold me to a fixed term? If yes, how long will this term be? Not 2 years surely?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 January 2013 - 07:56
are you on your husbands/dad's visa? Yes, I'm on my husband's visa