muurtje | ExpatWoman.com
 

muurtje

muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 September 2011 - 10:04
This drives me bonkers. What is the logic in 2x 500g being cheaper then 1kg! :\: You have to be so careful here with checking prices. The other day I picked up a packet of birds eys fishfingers and nearly dropped when I saw the price... 49dhs for flipping fishingers? No thank you, I'll make my own then. It annoys me that I have to watch the prices as I would much rather prefer to race past the shelves and grab what I need. C4 takes away my will to live on a regular basis :(
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 September 2011 - 22:48
Thats the one thing I really really miss here, fresh flowers!! Used to pick up tulips from roadside stalls on the way back from school. When I moved even if I splashed on a bouquet the flowers from a florist they would last at least a week. Here I've been given flowers and bought some and they've lasted only two or three days :(:(:(:( Makes me want to cry... Have not found artificial ones that look real enough to me yet.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 22:11
These countries are quite different from each other and each one has pros and cons. I've only lived in SA and would say that even within that country there are HUGE differences between places. This question is too broad for me to answer. Your friend might want to start with good old google so she can find out basic things such as weather etc. <em>edited by muurtje on 21/09/2011</em>
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 22:00
Haven't tried it yet, but now we both have an ipad it's going to be easy. Wish these things existed back when we did the long distance thing!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 10:35
Love mine! Also have an aerochino. It heats up and frothes milk so I can make lovely cappuchino's. All I'm waiting for now is for George to deliver the coffee cups in person :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 13:48
I am so sorry to hear of your predicament. Some people have no regard for others!! Have you tried to contact the estate agent? That's what I would do first and then RERA. I have no idea about the legalities of this matter, but RERA should be able to help you. http://www.rpdubai.com/rpdubai/welcome Good luck!!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 13:41
I do not like sushi... something to do with the cold rice also not a big fan of putting something like that out on the table as it might go off to soon. Fondue as in cheese fondue? I don't have a fondue set, but I suppose I could get one. Just wondering if this is suitable for a party. Won't it just be very messy (having visions of drunk friends and strings of cheese everywhere! Asian might be nice. I think my mum has a nice spring roll recipe somewhere which she used to use and I LOVE satay especially the sauce : ) Now lets see if I'm brave enough to try and make some dim sum as well.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 13:32
Need some inspiration for a theme. Want to make a couple of small things for my brithday party this weekend, but always like it if there is some sort of theme. Have done 'Tapas', 'Arabic mezze', 'English' and 'Italian'. I enjoy cooking and am reasonably accomplished, but don't want to spend the entire Friday in the kitchen, and don't want too make too much food as this is what I usually do and end up regretting ;)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 September 2011 - 13:42
Thank you! I just managed to do it. Thank you so much, feel silly now as it's quite easy :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 11:26
Yes, but yesterday was very humid. Walked the dog this morning at about 9 and wasn't dripping when I got back :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 10:35
Sooooo looking forward to the next springboks game after it's little victory over Fiji! This seems to be the most interesting pool if you ask me. Some very good games overall.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 10:31
Use Jessica maids as well. Have two girls. One very happy with, the other not so... It really depends on the girls but am thinking of changing agencies... Again :\: Am finding the whole agency thing quite tiring but not as tiring as cleaning my own toilets and floors so really shouldn't complain!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 10:19
Don't have a full time maid so can't comment too much, just thinking that asking her to come up with her own schedule is too much? She may not be able to do this. Also am wondering if she hasn't changed your bedlinen why you didn't say to her last week please change my sheets tomorrow. You might just have to give her a list of tasks for the next day and be very specific about what and how... It's a pain to do but hopefully after a while she will get the message and start taking initiative and doing her job properly. Good luck!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 10:13
Thanks kells bells. I think the maid sometimes gets confused and I was also adding plastic to the recycle bin... Okay so from now on I'm going to make sure that it gets done properly. :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 08:50
Cold mini meatballs; 500gr mince, one onion, tbsp of tomato ketchup, tsp oregano, dash of worchester sauce, 1 clove of garlic. You can also add some diced courgette, carrot, celery etc. Bind together with one egg and breadcrumbs. Fry off in some olive oil and leave to cool. Chicken breast strips work well too. Season them to your own taste (rub with pesto, or mix cinnamon, turmeric and smoked paprika together). Fry off in olive oil and leave to cool. Or fill a sheet of puff pastry with a mix of mince, aubergine, onion, feta, parsley, mushrooms. Fold over so you have a triangle and brush with egg. Bake in the oven and leave to cool. Or what about a wrap filled with tuna mixed with mayo, yoghurt, apple and spring onion? You can cut them into little circles almost like sushi. Maybe your LO won't pick the filing out of those?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 September 2011 - 15:03
How about buying a special sent for her to use on her wedding day? Then every time she smells it she will think of her wedding day and of you. Or depending on how well you know her, some sexy undies. They also have some nice books about being married, so are quite funny too. When I got married one of my friends made this little bracelet for me as she couldn't be there either. It was sweet and I loved wearing it that day. I myself am not that handy so would probably have to buy something, but that's also a nice idea. HTH
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 15:35
Where I come from I am not allowed to drop my maiden name in my passport so it states my maiden name and then in the line below it, it says wife of and then my DH last name. Gets very confusing also when I fly. We never fly under the same name. If possible I try to get both names on things like cards, insurance etc etc etc.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 15:18
No sh!t Sherlock! (Not you Cheche, but the lady who left her bag) I am amazed at how casual people around here are with their belongings. Bags in trolleys, on chairs, phones on tables. I know stealing is punished severely here, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't remain vigilant.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 18:26
Maybe it is a boy thing ; He does stay in his 'bedroom' along with the washing machine whenever I go out and at night. He does wee there but has stopped doing nr 2's. The newspaper however is more of a toy to him then anything else! Weeing on command? That sounds like heaven! Can't wait till we get to that fase.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 18:21
Forgot the name of the company, but they come to your house. Not too expensive either and very professional girls. 044209836
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 16:47
With this weather I would go for a large salad; green beans, cucumber, lettuce, onion, boiled eggs, (tuna?), feta or blue cheese, grapes, nuts etc etc the world is your oyster :) Otherwise my fav veggie dish is this: Grill slices of aubergines, let them cool. Make filling out of; bulgur wheat or couscous mixed with a little oil and spices such as cinnamon, turmeric salt and pepper add feta, pistachio nuts, mint and flat leaf parsley. Put a small amount of the filling on the aubergine and roll them up. Place in an ovenproof dish. Top with tomato sauce (use a packet or make your own) and extra feta and nuts. Bake in the oven until crispy and brown. You could have a nice soup or a small salad as a starter and how about a pavlova with lots of fruit for afters? Just wanted to add what about a starter or grilled beetroot, haloumi cheese and mint? <em>edited by muurtje on 12/09/2011</em>
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 15:57
There is nothing wrong with being tall. Wear heels and skinny jeans if you feel comfortable in them, even if you are 100kg's. It's up to you! Coming from a country of tall people (sadly I'm a shorty at 5 ft 5), I'm used to seeing women make use of their height. Even had a friend who is 6ft and she wears the highest heels she can find and looks stunning!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 15:54
Okay, so if I were to have a licence (which I was planning to do) then I could work from home and charge people for letting their children do their homework in my house. My DH sponsors me now, so I would remain under his sponsorship right? I've seen a free-lance licence and am going to look into that. I hope that it will be possible to get something like that. I understand the need for liability insurance which if I have a licence I should be able to get, I hope. That last thing I want is for me to go to the Bur Dubai Hilton. I respect the laws of this country it's just a matter of figuring out what they are!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 15:36
Sorry to be ignorant, but what is a virtual visa? I'm thinking of starting up a homework group. I was also planning to work from home. Is there anybody that can tell me why expat women are not allowed to work from home? Which website/government agency/ regulation body would you recommend to go to for information about this? Apologies for high jacking the thread but if I'm not allowed to work from home I will need to completely rethink my business plan and really don't want to have to start looking for a venue etc.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 15:21
Thanks MaryCatherine. I was wondering about when to say toilet and saying when he starts makes much more sense! I haven't been cross or negative about accidents apart from saying no if I catch him in the process and would never do something cruel like rub his face in it as my FIL told me to do :\: The vinegar sounds like a great idea as I cannot stand the smell of Dettol and really don't like the stuff. Someone also told me that citronella oil works as a repellent for the dog. One more question, he whimpers at night when he gets put in his 'bedroom'. Do you think he may be afraid of the dark or is it just that he would prefer to stay with us?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 08:21
I was in the Desert in Namibia on a trip with fellow international students and we only heard the news the next day. We spent most of the day glued to CNN. Couldn't believe what was happening.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2011 - 11:34
I always tip her at the end of the month. Usually 100dhs. I'm presuming she doesn't give that money to her employer? I hope not, because it's meant for her and not for those people. edited because I can't spell today. <em>edited by muurtje on 11/09/2011</em>
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2011 - 10:31
This happened to my then 2 year old when we were living in London, which was about 3 locations ago! The problem was that they contained fish oil. It was under my watch so no-one else to blame but I never knew how many she tool BUT ... she woke up the next day smelling like old fish - it was coming out of her pores. It was so bad that if I took her out people would actually grimace when they walked past her and then had a quick sniff of their clothes to check it wasn't them. I clearly stayed clear of omega 3 fish oil supplements until she was 4 and started school - clearly still in the UK at this point. One tablet was all it took to bring the smell back for 2 days. She is now 8 and I have not dared to try again and even when she eats fish I am wary :) Reminds me of Obelix who fell in the kettle as a child. To the last few posters; there isn't a Mum in the world that would knowingly put her child at risk. Accidents happen (or in the case of the OP an idiot caused them to happen). However children mostly survive these accidents and they do learn from them. Of course you need to be careful and medication, vitamins, cleaning products can be very dangerous to children, but we are all human. :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2011 - 09:57
Nadiya, much good advice has been given to you. Start small and make sure you treat yourself. Have you ever thought of using one of these massage services that come to your house? This could maybe be a mid-week treat for you. It helps you to relax, will help with circulation etc and after you can go straight to bed. On other evenings try to do something out of the house even it's only for 15-30 min. Don't know where you live, but try going for a walk (if not round the block then on the beach or in a park). A bit of gentle exercise will do you good and help you clear you mind. Lastly, try and find the off button for your cr*ckberry. I know it's difficult, but the world will not end if a client doesn't get an immediate response. Be kind to yourself and take care of yourself. It is the most important thing you can do for you!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 September 2011 - 16:33
I used to work in a garden centre on the weekend and during the holidays when I was in secondary school and we had one employee with Down Syndrome. He was the nicest guy, loved his job and took real pride in helping costumers. I have problem with it at all and would welcome it. People with disabilities also have the right to a fulfilling working life. There used to be this bakery/cafe back home that was run as a project for handicapped people. The service was always very genuine although occasionally a bit hit and miss, but the smiles you got made that worth while!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 08:56
Dito, we live in Saheel 3 bed and pay about 3500-4500 a month and there's only 2 of us plus one dog. Thinking of getting rid of some of the grass as our water consumption is high and think the sprinklers have a lot to do with it.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 September 2011 - 08:52
Hugs to you officechick. Maybe try and see the doctor if you're bleeding that badly. Hope you feel better soon.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 16:31
My DH when asked for his 'good' name always says wouldn't you rather know my 'bad' name. It confuses the h*ll out of them.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 15:55
Even with a user name like that ;) Will get DH to take a look at it. Thanks!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 15:39
Totally in love with my new ring. It's not a diamond but a blue topaz and was given to me by DH on the 10 year anniversary of our first kiss. My plan is to collect as many sparkelies as possible and wear them all. But maybe not all at the same time ;) No point in keeping them in a safe. You won't be able to wear them once you're dead.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 15:32
We're looking to buy a second hand car and I've just spent a good two hours looking through Dubizzle, but am finding the amount of cars on offer overwhelming. DH would prefer something like a Toyota Prado, but we're open to other options too. TIA
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 12:18
Anybody know on which of the millions of sports channel they will broadcast the games? DH will be in a plane during the first Springboks games so I want to record it for him. TIA.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2011 - 09:53
Oh my aching sides!!!! Truly sad that any one could think this way but man oh man... "bread" was the complete end of me. Dyslexics have more NUF
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 16:45
Hi MOT, I sing and live in AR too. I sing with an a-capella trio but would be up for your suggestion. Maybe you can speak to the golf club as they have a nice terrace there.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2011 - 22:38
Count me in a costumer too! I love their products but have switched to Kiehls as Aveda isn't available here. I like them too, but nothing beats the smell of their Shampure conditioner :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 21:18
Packing tonight and then off tomorrow morning. Not looking forward to the 9.5 hour flight... But looking forward to seeing DH on the other side!!!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:50
Pasta? One hob for the sauce and one for the pasta? Can you use your oven? Or otherwise make a nice big salad with cooked french beans, cucumber, lettuce, fresh herbs, feta, grilled strips of chicken, tomatoes and anything else you might like, top with a creamy dressing and serve with crispy bread.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:39
Edna is it possible that 'bad' children will always be 'bad' no matter what the punishment, but that because the punishments nowadays are so mild and lax more children who would have otherwise thought twice about causing trouble now just run amok?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:36
Noooo!!! I was just planning on doing the same as the printer we have (also HP photosmart) has never been sold in the UAE and therefore it is impossible to get cartridges for them. Have you tried to contact HP and ask for an alternative? Maybe there are other cartridges that would fit?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:32
Corporal punishment may not be the answer. It is perhaps to late to reintroduce it and also I do agree that when used it must be used carefully otherwise it could turn into abuse. However at the moment teachers in school have no deterrents at all. There are many stories of parents getting involved to get students out of detention, or making excuses about why their children aren't in school. I am afraid that the only way to get anywhere is to get the parents involved and the only way to get them involved is to punish them financially. Cut their benefits if their children aren't in school. Make them pay for any kind of damage that their children do to property etc. If they are not on benefits then fine them. Schools need to stop dumbing down the curriculum and looking at what the students can't do. They need to instill work ethic and values in these students and prepare them for independent living. This can only work if teachers demand respect and are backed up by management. They need to know that if they take charge they won't be reprimanded or sued. Also the rest of society needs to step in an comment on what is going on. This needs to be done by many people at once and not just by one or two brave souls. So if there are teenagers playing loud music on the bus, they need to be told to turn it down. If they don't then they will be escorted off the bus and left to walk.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 17:09
Not wanting to hire illegal maids and understand the severity of the consequences faced by maid and sponsor, but does anyone know if this is likely to change? I heard somewhere that in Bahrain maids can be sponsored part-time and I think there are a lot of people in Dubai who would prefer to sponsor a part-time private maid rather then use an agency maid. Is there a platform for requests like this?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 16:39
Just pick 3 or 4 shops maximum or tell them to go by taxi, or wait in Dubai Mall while they are out there.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 11:05
Having Iftar with a few friends tomorrow evening. Will make a Pavlova with peaches and blueberries for desert. I think the rest of the menu consists of lentil soup and a salad. O and dates and juice ofcourse.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 10:54
Thanks for the idea's. A padlock isn't and option as there is nothing to secure it to. I usually don't lock hand luggage unless I am travelling to Africa which is the case this week. Also it's about the principle. If I want to I should be able to lock it. I am going to phone them and ask to speak to the manager and present two options: a. deliver a new suitcase to me. b. compensate me for my taxi costs. Apparently it is not an option to just send/give keys because if they were not in the suitcase they don't know where they are. There isn't a branch closer by. Their only branch is in Dubai Mall. Will keep you posted.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 August 2011 - 21:45
No I live in AR and need to go to Dubai Mall. I don't think there is bus that can take me there without having to change over a lot which in this heat I don't want to do, also I just want to run in and out. Anyway I have to agree with you, my chances are slim. However I think I am going to point out the extra costs to them. This at least will give me the feeling that I've done something rather then just smile politely and say: 'It's okay'.
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing