mum2girls | ExpatWoman.com
 

mum2girls

mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 19:06
I have the Angel Care Movement monitor, which I don't use anymore, but it doesn't measure the heart rate. If it is a medical heart rate monitor the neo-nate at the hospital usually provide them for the first few months after you take the baby home. Otherwise some of the bigger pharmacies will probably stock them either for rental or purchase.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 April 2011 - 06:40
Don't worry Mayabkk, the school is great, your kids will love it! From what I understand of people who pulled their kids out, it was mainly due to the high fees, and nothing to do with quality of education or facilities etc. I know of 2 families who reluctantly had to change schools, but would not have done so if they could have continued to afford the high fees.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 08:49
ps it was not the Swiss UAE consulate, it was the Swiss Consulate in Moscow. Don't know if that makes a difference, but the entry requirement should not be any different, The Swiss do adhere strictly to their rules and regulations.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 08:45
Pinkpea, yes it was the Swiss consulate, it was exactly this time last year. In our case the cancelled passport had the hole punched through it, don't know if that makes a difference !
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 08:40
This is interesting to hear. I was not an expat kid nor was my husband, but our kids are and we have moved quite regularly. As ex-pat parents, we regularly question if this is indeed the right environment for our children, changing schools so often, losing old friends making new friends every 2 or 3 years. We feel that we need to base ourselves in one place for all of High school, to give the kids stability and opportunity to make deep friendships. We have heard both sides of the coin from families with older kids who have always done the expat thing, like you, some of the kids say it was the best life they could ever imagine and would hope for the same for their kids and then other's would say it really messed up their lives. One of our friends, with 4 grown up kids now who lived in some fantastic exotic locations, but never for more than 3 years. Three of their adult children absolutely loved their life, but the fourth said she was miserable growing up and she would never impose that kind of life on her own children (Her parents feel in her case it is very much linked to her hating boarding school rather than moving around). I guess it is down to the kids character and how the parents manage it, I really hope my kids will have wonderful memories of their life as an expat kid. We will never forgive ourselves if we have been screwing with their little life. <em>edited by mum2girls on 26/04/2011</em>
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 20:21
We absolutely love the school too, this is our first year, but I have to agree it is surprising how many 'short' weeks they have.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 16:25
We were told the opposite, that if the passport was cancelled, the visas in the cancelled passport become invalid (it was travel to Switzerland). The new passport was required because all the visa pages were used up, the original passport was well within it's validity. I would suggest you check with the visa section of the country you plan on visiting.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 20 April 2011 - 13:42
A lot of European countries will only allow you take your homehelp if she has been employed by you for more than a year. Other than that proviso, most countries do allow it under the normal conditions, so maybe Australia will, if she has been working with you for a while and even better if she has travelled with you on previous occasions to other countries. However based on VP experience, it sounds like it might not be an option for Australia. One word of advice though, talk to the visa section at the Embassy first rather than just apply and risk having it refused, it can become a bit of a hassle if u try to get a visa for a different country later, she will have to disclose she had a visa application refused and it can create unnecessary hassle. Good Luck and let us know if you do manage to get the visa.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 12:53
Oh no, I guess it is inevitable that he did kill them. I hope for the Mom they at least find the bodies so she can know for sure what happened to them, it would be awful to always wonder and searching in the hope they were still alive, although she will never come to terms with any of it. So very sad.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 13:19
Thank you very much ladies !
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 10:48
I was wondering if there is a hotel or some overnight accommodation there ? Any must sees for a day trip there, is it a large park to get around? <em>edited by mum2girls on 18/04/2011</em>
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 21:37
roasted/grilled mushrooms stuffed with garlic cream cheese. Dates wrapped in bacon cooked in the oven (similar to the water chestnuts) Samosas Smoked salmon with sour cream and chives on blinis Smoked salmon tartare on rounds of toasted bread Vietnamese rolls Good luck.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 20:56
I looked at both but I chose the fence, the net is less intrusive though and doesn't spoil the garden design, so it looks much nicer than the fence. The fence was a little bit more expensive than the net. The reason I chose the fence was because the net is quite a bit of work to put in place, so I was worried that if we were rushing to go somewhere we might be inclined to leave putting it back in place until later. Also if you need to go inside, even just taking one kid to the bathroom, it's much easier and quicker to shoo the kids out of the pool, close and lock the gate, whereas it's not something you could do quickly with the net. Overall, I just felt the net was a little bit less secure than the fence, but only because of the hassle factor leaving room for being a bit more lax. With little one's I didn't want to leave even the slightest room for error, but if my kids were older and were swimming confidently, I might have considered the net.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 March 2011 - 10:02
hmmm... Don't think you needed to change your user ID for this, I would say the other person you refer to already knows exactly who you are and that you are referring to them !
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 15:11
Its possible depending on your situation ! I knew someone who brought their helper with them, she had been with them for several years and lived in 2 other countries with them before they were transferred to Australia. (I think she was Indian nationality, but can't be sure) http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/specialist-entry/427/how-the-visa-works.htm " This visa allows certain senior executives in charge of an Australian office of an overseas organisation to bring to Australia a domestic worker from overseas to work in their private household in Australia. This visa recognises the representational and entertainment responsibilities of those executives while working in Australia. For this visa you will need to be sponsored and nominated by an eligible Subclass 457 - Business (Long Stay) visa holder who is in charge of an Australian office of an overseas organisation. Before you lodge your application, either in or outside of Australia, the eligible 457 visa holder will be required to be approved as a domestic worker sponsor or have lodged a sponsorship application. The sponsor will need to nominate you to fill a position by lodging a nomination."
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 19 March 2011 - 16:57
Tried Thai Wok the other night, based on a recommendation from here, and it was outstanding, really, really good home delivery food ! Have not tried any Chinese home deliveries ! Enjoy !
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 22:14
I have used Champion and totally agree, they are not the best. Have tried a few others but also useless. I am now using Ritchies Laundry, who also do dry cleaning. they pick up and deliver, been using them since January now and so far no complaints, they pick up and deliver when they say they will and the laundry and dry cleaning has come back in good condition (so far !)
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 February 2011 - 08:28
I don't think 400k would find you much in Emirates Hills, normally starting prices there are 600k + To the OP, I think you have a good shortlist of places to consider, be prepared for 'Dubai Standard' quality houses, I wasn't and I was so disappointed at the condition of some of the properties particularly at the high end budget.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 February 2011 - 18:19
It seems to be serious, DH's company are preparing to evacuate their employees, don't think that has happened before.
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 22:28
I had it done 2 years ago, not here though ! I also had a stone stuck in the bile duct, (agonising!) I had one procedure to remove the stone from the bile duct and then went back a week later to have my gallbladder removed. I had it done by keyhole surgery, overnight in hospital and a quick recovery. Good Luck
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 21:21
She looked great in that outfit though ! She really has a killer body ! I agree she could not sing or dance at the grammy's, but I thought she did pretty well when she sang that country song at some Nashville music awards.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 21:18
A Hattan in the Lakes. That allowance is correct for a high level executive with a multi-national company. Some companies do not give the difference if the rent is less than the allowance, it is basically 'use it or lose it' !
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2011 - 20:58
oh I can sympathise !! I am at the begining of a month long parent visit. Meal times go like this Me .. 'What would you like to eat for dinner', P...'anything at all, sure I'm easy!', "will I do a leg of lamb? 'ah no, I don't really like lamb, it's too greasy for me', "would you like a nice piece of fish ? ah well, I'm a bit fussy about fish, it has to be really fresh, I really only like fish from a fishmonger and not from a supermarket" "ok then, I'll do a steak" "can you get good steak here? I mean, where do they get it from, can't be that fresh they must have to fly it in from somewhere, might be a bit dodgy" 'Ok, how about sausages, mash and brocolli" 'That's perfect, exactly what I wanted"! I will never survive one whole month of this, lol ! <em>edited by mum2girls on 13/02/2011</em>
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 February 2011 - 11:00
IF it's Europe, then I suggest Portugal for value for money and great beaches, Atlantic is ****** cold though !!! South of Italy, Puglia or Calabria. The Med is just so overpriced and overcrowded in the summer. Bali would be nice too, maybe a bit humid at that time of year ??
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 18:43
have not tried it, but did check it out and seems it does not work like it says it does http://www.realself.com/blog/velasmooth_review_cellulite.html
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 17:46
I have never come across the level of incompetency that I have encountered here. I can't tell you how many times I have been in almost tears just trying to get something simple sorted out. The frustration leaves me almost numb, can't tell you how many times I have had the equivalent of a toddler meltdown. You are not alone !!!!
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 15:46
P, you are right and I did see online they sell for double beds, but in the store here they only have single sizes on their shelves, I never checked if they can order. I was thinking I would shop &ship but I still have not set up an account R. The quilts are for single beds, but look okay on the double bed, they just don't drop down to the floor on either side.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 15:26
I have double beds for my girls and it is really difficult to find nice kids bedding for double beds, Pottery Barn Kids have gorgeous bedlinen but all single size only. I usually buy online at La Redoute, or buy a block colour and get a really nice throw/bedspread (PotteryBarn and Zara kids have nice ones)
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2011 - 13:17
Bought it last week in PartyZone, Jumeriah Beach Center (the one with the Automatic Restaurant). I think they also have a branch at Garhoud. I bought pink spray, they had a full range of colours. <em>edited by mum2girls on 30/01/2011</em>
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 17:48
So sorry Ladies for your sad loss, I have been there.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 17:18
totally concur with carymama, it is a fantastic school. US curriculum which is not for everyone. Fantastic facilities. Huge school but still manages to have a very personal touch. Daughter loves it, we love it.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 14:20
If she is coming here in the hopes of meeting a man, that is a totally different story ! But let's be honest, there are not many places in the world you could de-camp to in your 30's (or any age for that matter) with the sole ambition of finding yourself a partner. But if she is looking for a new life experience or to get out of a rut back home, I personally think Dubai would be a really good option.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 13:39
If she has never lived outside the UK and is looking for a different experience for a few years, I would say it is a good place to come. No language issues, safer than most countries, maybe an opportunity for her to put away some money, it's a big expat community so easier than most places to meet friends, some great bars and restaurants. Not too far from home if she wants to have a quick trip back for a visit.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2011 - 13:33
Company pays up to a maximum of 30,000 k per annum (I think !!!!, maybe it's 40k). If it is exceeds that, we pay the difference at the end of the year.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 21 January 2011 - 08:57
The Haaya club has limited gym equipment, I find! Also, even if you are a member you still have to pay additional to attend their classes, which are also open to the general public, so no benefit to paying the membership fee. The Haaya Lakes gym is nicer than the Haaya Town Center one, which is like working out in a noisy dance club, the music is absolutely blaring. They do have a small ladies only room with threadmill and other equipment. Also you can hire one of the Haaya Club personal trainers without being a member, so unless you will use the gym equipment very regularly and would use the pool, I don't think it is worth paying the membership fee. They do have a special offer on at the moment 15 free personal training with an annual membership, or 8 free with a 6 month membership.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 17:56
Sounds like a very fair salary. As for what she is spending on food, it's probably because she is also feeding the boyfriend, that is not your responsibility.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 17:51
I am having a consult for lasik surgery with Dr. Milicent Grimm apparently she is one of the best Eye doctors in Dubai, maybe she can help you. Sorry I can't be of more help.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 January 2011 - 22:34
We had lots of friends there who were not married, just living together, so you don't have to be married to get a Russian visa to accompany your boyfriend. Your boyfriends company would normally arrange all the paperwork and visas for the employee and their partner (married or not), so it should not be anything you would need to deal with. It is a short enough flight between Moscow and Dubai, so you could commute for a couple of months if you choose to do that.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 January 2011 - 13:39
If it is Moscow or St. Petes and for a defined period you could really enjoy it. Loads of culture, great restaurants and nightlife, REALLLY expensive though. It would be very difficult to find work there as an expat. If you are a teacher, you would probably find a job in an International school quite easily. We were there with kids, so it is easier to meet other people in the same situation. Being a single expat trailing 'partner' might be a bit tough in Moscow, but if you OH works for a big International company, they are usually pretty good at building an expat network. I was absolutely horrified when my DH was offered a position there, but we went for it as it was a defined period of 3 years, and I ended up really enjoying our time there, in fact, I was hoping we could have stayed there longer. The winter is long and cold, this past summer was a disaster with the heatwave and the smog. To fill your time you could try doing something you never would have the time for anywhere else, such as painting classes, learn Russian, there is a huge expat community in Moscow and there is always some class or course or other going on. Also discovering the city is really interesting, Moscow and St. Petes are fascinating cities. But it is a hardship posting for a reason. If it is anywhere else other than Moscow or St. Petersburg, I would not even consider going there. Good luck and if you have any questions please go ahead and ask me.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 16:39
Thanks for the reply ladies. MB, your maids package is very generous !
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 January 2011 - 16:57
I have recently used a wonderful interior designer called Emma, Whiteberry Interiors. Her number is zero five zero, nine three eight, one nine zero zero. She was recommended by someone on this forum and I cannot speak highly enough of her, she totally got my style but I would never have managed to put it together in the manner she did. You can use her as much or as little as you want, she does a 2 hour initial consult at your home and then sends you a detailed analysis with pics of ideas you have discussed. You can then go off and buy all your stuff and she will come back and help you arrange everything and place pictures etc (at an hourly rate). Alternatively she will take you and help you choose fabrics, furniture etc., She will also do layout plans and really has some great ideas. In our case, we are only here for 2 or 3 years in a rented villa with 2 young kids, and she was very conscious of that when she was designing the spaces.
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 21:46
DH just got off the phone, Du are 'filing a complaint' .... .
mum2girls
1097
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 21:37
We are in the Meadows, no TV or Phone in our house either since this afternoon. DH on the phone to DU now, they don't seem to have a clue what is going on .... they have DH turning on and off TV and Cable box and disconnecting the power cable. Will let you know if it gets sorted
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 12:32
Fantastic, Thank you
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 11:25
We have been here 4 months and I find driving here quite easy really! Guess it depends what your benchmark is ..... and also where you decide to live. I don't have GPS and for the first time ever I rely on a map, I find it relatively easy to find my way around here, however I did find the idea of driving on Sheik Zhd quite daunting at the begining. Dubai is a small area with 2 or 3 main arteries so it is easy to get around, signposts are a bit lacking to say the least. I have heard complaints of traffic problems, but have yet to encounter anything too dramatic. Drivers can be a bit crazy, however, driving here is probably better than driving around most European big cities Paris, Rome, Brussels. We have two cars, we don't have a driver, we had a driver in our last post and I found it restrictive, I am happy to be driving myself, never thought I would say that though. DH drops eldest to school on his way to work when he is not travelling and I drop the little one to her nursery, then I pick both of them up. Apparently the school bus network is really good here. Bigger car is certainly better, there are some huge things on the road here and despite owning a biggish 4x4, it looks small compared to a lot of what others are driving. Good Luck with having the job confirmed, I love it here so far !!
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 12:03
Yes, they made a sideboard for me and matched the colour to other furniture I have. They also installed Floating shelves in an alcove and shelves in cupboards. Am planning to get them to make a new dining table top for me. Would definitely recommend them
mum2girls
1097
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 January 2011 - 11:59
Sorry to hear this Ginnee, seems it can happen to all of us. For sure your friends maid knows what is going on, and I also say it is unlikely your maid is in a dangerous situation. Maybe your maid's cousin has spun some ridiculous story to her employers about the reason your maid absconded and they have decided to not get involved .... who knows !! Hopefully you can get justice, I would be beside myself with being taken for a ride like that.
 
 
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