muurtje | ExpatWoman.com
 

muurtje

muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 20:02
I have an overenthousiastic labrador who loves to run in the desert near AR. E-mail me at dubaimuurtje at gmail dot com and we can set something up.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 18:31
The crab was very nice. The lobster not so much. I have discovered that I only like lobster that was still alive at the time that I've ordered it, or maybe it has to do with where it is from? The vibe is very nice as well and it's different because it is so laid back.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 18:29
Get a dog! Most are petrified of them. We had many come round when our garden was indeed a mess, not due to lack of gardener, but due to leaky irrigation which needed replacing and getting rid of the grass in the process. Conversations started as quite normal and polite, but in the end I would open the door, see them and just say 'No thank you' and close the door again without them even starting their conversation. Very rude, I know, but it was only thing that seemed to help. Another option would be to turn off the power to your door belll? Good luck!!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 11:35
For the ladies that have found a maid service that they are happy with, did you spend a lot of time 'training' the maid? I like the lady that comes to my house, but am not overjoyed by the quality of her work. She cleans but not fantastically and especially when it comes to extra things (like top of cupboards, doors, scrubbing tiles etc). I am often not there when she comes to clean so I suppose that doesn't help.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 09:08
I have a lot of faith in the UAE government. I think we must also remember that the political situation here is completely different. Having said that we have no influence on countries such as Iran and they are very close to us. I just try to keep in mind that it is not in Iran's own interest to use nuclear weapons as they would hurt their own people as much as others in the region. For all the people involved in the region's unrest and for all of us with friends or family that are in danger I hope that things will soon improve and that peace will return.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 September 2012 - 09:01
I enjoyed it. Think portion size was fine, but prices are a tad expensive, although not hugely so. They also serve grape beverages and I liked the vibe very much.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 22:22
Natural is nicer then chipped paint! Otherwise wear closed shoes till you have time.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 20:24
I have a Fisher and Paykel stove as well, with a gas hob and an electric oven and I think it is great. Only thing is that the clock is a little fast so need to re-adjust every three months or so. The oven works well, and has a consistent temperature throughout. I have a separate oven thermometer that I hang in the oven and the difference between the dial and the thermometer isn't very big. My gas burners work well, although the middle one sometimes needs some extra help to turn on. I am very happy that we went with this brand. I think you get good value for money and it's much more solid then some of the other brands.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 13:56
I knew there was a reason my couch is dark brown ;) I've found that sparkling water works very well too. The bubbles really help with the red wine stains. Thanks again for the tips. Just one more question. What is the difference between buffalo wings and other small drum stick/ wings? Is it the marinade? I always like doing my own marinade as then I know what's in it. Now actually looking forward to putting together a good spread!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 15:00
TDB, glad to hear I am not the only nutter who does that :D It will be more sort of canapes, but I know from experience that some of my friends don't eat beforehand because they like my cooking so much. I like the idea of doing something with potatoes. What kind of fillings do you use? Cream cheese and salmon, spicy mince? I do eat pork, but some of my friends don't so out of respect I try to make sure I don't use any pork (although I might have to sneak in something with chorizo!) The two cube kebab is a great idea too! I will either that or see if I can get small drumsticks or wings, marinate them and chuck them in the oven. Thanks for giving me lots of great ideas!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 14:31
I would attend a party if I got invited. I like tupperware but also like Lock&Lock. I have both. When I go home or to my in-laws I often buy second hand tupperware at markets etc. I do think that quality wise it can be a bit hit and miss. Some of the tupperware I have had doesnt seem to like the dishwasher that much, others are fine after extensive use.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 14:11
Thanks Claire. It's not till the 21st, but I always like to try out recipes before making them for others. I will have a look at the recipes and had come up with making a nice selection of dips with bread, crudites etc, so your cream cheese and chilli sauce sounds great! Going to see if I can find some easy warm dishes to go with that as well.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 21:57
You can use the spread, just whip it! Make sure you use full fat and not light as you really need that for baking.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 21:41
October you have mail!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 21:30
Any tips for angency maids, who come once or twice a week? I find that her general cleaning is fine, but she doesn't pick up on deepcleaning tasks (such a scouring shower tiles once a while, cleaning on top of things etc etc). If I ask her to do a certain task she will, but she won't do things like that by herself. I tried to explain about doing certain things once a month, but I don't think she quite understood...
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 20:33
Both driving too fast, and driving too slow are dangerous. If you want to drive at a slower speed, make sure you are as far left as possible. I've had many times driving in the fast lane on Emirates road, being tailgated, moving over to the next lane and having to slam on my brakes because some fool is driving 80 in the second lane!! TBH I think this what makes driving in the UAE such a challenge, on Emirates road you will find both trucks driving 60 and big SUV's driving 160 and every conceivable speed inbetween those two extremes. It is always sad when lethal accidents happen but it hard to judge if they could be avoided. For all we know, a tire blew and nobody had time to move out of the way. Please stay focussed (no texting or phoning!!), be patient and buckle up!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 19:55
At the moment a lot of non A380 flights, first require you to get a bus to the terminal. It seriously feels like you land in Sharjah and it takes forever... after that it all depends on how many people are at the desk and how many flights arrived at the same time. I am always so grateful for my E-gate card, but that won't help visiting friends.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 19:47
Oh! Darling. Oh dear, I feel terrible that I didn't guess that D was for darling and I thought it was Dubai. Don't tell my DH, especially as he really is a D! Love it!! Dubai Husband as opposed to the other ones :D
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 15:52
Salad with chicken, grapes, blueberries, celery, cucumber lettuce, onion, blue cheese, walnuts and some croutons if you wish. Make a yoghurt based dressing with some all spice or cinnamon, garlic and tsp of mustard. It sounds strange with all the fruit but is really really good.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 September 2012 - 14:05
I've seen them in Global Village. There was a small stand close to the China Pavilion, but you'll have to wait a while as they only open in November! I also have a vague recollection of reading about a coffee shop somewhere in Green Community that sells various Dutch products. Has anyone else heard about this, or did I just make it up in a moment of homesickness? :D
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 September 2012 - 18:59
Thanks Polly. I do think I would prefer to have a party at our house. I just want some fun ideas to make it extra special. :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 September 2012 - 15:02
Do you make your own cheesy bread or buy it? Mix together 100 grams of butter, handful of fresh basil, two cloves of garlic finely chopped and one ball of mozzarella also finely chopped. Cut slits in a french loaf, but make sure you don't cut all the way through. Smush the butter in the slits. Cover with aluminium foil and bake in the oven for about 10-15 min at 180.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 September 2012 - 15:00
Leftover spag bol as I'm alone tonight. If DH was here, maybe a nice salad with rocket, chicory, fennel, grilled chicken strips (marinated in mustard, olive oil, parsley and garlic), grapes and few pecan nuts. Or how about a nice juicy steak with green beans and some crusty bread? Easy and so tasty!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 August 2012 - 02:20
Thank you ladies, keep the recommendations coming :D
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 August 2012 - 20:08
My friend and I want to go to one of the hotels for an Iftar. Can anybody recommend one?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 15:08
It's funny reading your posts as I have a few single guy friends and they complain of the same thing! They too find it hard to meet girls... Al three are lovely guys and anyone would be lucky to have them as their partner.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2012 - 17:06
From living abroad as a child: flexibility and acceptence of all things different. From South Africa a husband and a love for rugby, wine and Cape Town. From London a much better accent, great friends and intricate knowledge of the tube system. Everytime you move you have to leave things and people behind which is sad, but that won't stop me from moving again as all these things and people have added to my life!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2012 - 17:06
From living abroad as a child: flexibility and acceptence of all things different. From South Africa a husband and a love for rugby, wine and Cape Town. From London a much better accent, great friends and intricate knowledge of the tube system. Everytime you move you have to leave things and people behind which is sad, but that won't stop me from moving again as all these things and people have added to my life!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 09:48
This is what happens when you get up too early to walk the dog. Go back to to bed and resurface in a couple of hours :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 09:46
Performed at the Fete de la Musique at the Madinat on Thursday and had drinks at Trader Vics after. Next day I slept in and went to the movies with a friend, stayed awake and picked up DH from the airport at stupid o'clock. Had a lazy morning then a quick trip to the mall and made a really really nice cesar salad for dinner.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 15:02
Thank you!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 14:57
Another gentle bump. Starting to get nervous and just hope I won't forget my lines tonight. :)
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 11:43
How old are they? If they could stay up will 20.00 they would be able to see some of the bands for a least a little while.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 11:27
I think it's because it's all amateur musicians who work during the day... Not sure if it's really a 'childrens' event although everybody is welcome.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 11:16
Anyone? It's a free musical evening with lots of different bands and groups playing in the corridors of the Madinat.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 01:30
Sky Kitty, I hope you'll be on the cabin crew when I next fly home. You seem so nice and if I was afraid of flying reading your post would help put me at ease. I'm not afraid but I do get terribly airsick:( Any tips/recommended meds for that?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2012 - 01:21
The special deals in the supermarkets here are rubbish. I miss the buy two get one free deals and real specials especially on things like washing powder...
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2012 - 17:26
OP what doesn't kill him makes him stronger right? Besides I think the rays from the microwave will have killed most of the germs?? Let's hope so. Your post made me smile as I can see it happening. With regards to Mr Head; LOL
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 June 2012 - 09:44
I can highly recommend you EDI. I started on 10th of May and on June 11th I've got my driving license. I have chosen the shift package ( depend on how flexible you are ), thanks to some recommendation from EW, I decided to go with Candy ( filipina instructor ), who is just awesome! The package is 40 classes, from which 4 are "highway training", only after you pass the road test. My first try and I passed! I open my file in al quoz, cause I was not happy at all with the branches from MoE and Marina mall, they were useless. I wish you good luck! Isn't Candy just great! Glad to hear she worked out for you and you passed first go as well :D
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2012 - 12:40
I went in there once, but it smelt awful in there and that put me off buying anything.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 June 2012 - 00:59
Welcome :) In terms of dewa/landscaping. Get rid of the grass. This makes a huge difference. We replaced it with gravel in two areas and with artificial grass in one. Looks great, feels great and easy maintenance. We used a company called Ceres. Ask for Mr. Smits. Saheel villas are great. We have a type 7 as well and it's perfect. Our dishwasher is in the utility room as we didn't want to lose the cupboard space. Go for a gass cooker with an electic oven then you've got the best of both worlds. One bottle lasts about 6 months.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2012 - 09:29
I think they are also called pilonidal cyste right? My DH suffered from one and had it operated on here in DXB at American Hospital, bu Dr Farook (also works at Dubai Mall medical centre). Dr Farook is very professional as is his assistant Gretchen. It wasn't too bad an operation but expect to not be able to sit (and thus work) for about two weeks. My advise is to not wait too long. I have never heard of fibrin glue treatment so cannot comment on that. I was told it is common in the ME, mostly in young adult males. In the US army they apparently call it 'Jeep Drivers B*tt' Good luck!!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 16:27
Just to add that a heater/chiller pump will cost roughly 25000 aed. They are not expensive to run (unlike the heater that came with our pool), but it's a lot of money to spend on something for a rental property. Our pool is a little bigger then what you want and the water at the moment is about 34-36, so great for a midnight swim but not really very cooling.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 13:53
There is nothing wrong with letting the packer do his job, or packing slowly, but when there is no packer around it's just so frustrating to see people standing there doing nothing waiting for the cassiere to pack the shoppping.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 13:30
@ ishehere surely you must agree that the vast majority of the people that stand around waiting for their bags to be packed do so because they just can't be @rsed to do it themselves?!?! If there is a packer and you want to make use of his services, fine. If you don't ask him to go elsewhere. If you NEED someone to help you pack and there is no packer then you would ASK the cassiere to assist you right? And you would still pack some of the stuff yourself?
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 12:30
I would say Nay, especially if you 'only' need to lose 10kgs. It isn't real food and it tastes awful, also eventhough you'll lose the weight you will end up putting it back on once you stop using it. Rather go low-carb/ more healthy for a longer period and lose it more slowly, but more permanently. Also if possible, increase the amount of exercise you're getting. Good luck!!!
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 12:25
Me too October. Am currently sorting through all the 'stuff' we have accumulated, but have not yet started on the 'office' (more of a dump site really!) Managed to collect all the paperwork from downstairs that needs to be filed, but now dreading the actual filing bit! SEY83 I couldn't agree more! I've had many times when I just want to push that person aside, and do it for them!!! As it is standing in the que/checking out here takes a month of bl**dy Sundays. Carrefour on the weekend = **** on earth.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 June 2012 - 15:39
Plum, when are they doing this? I have heard this as well but initially they said they would close the roundabout at the end of April?? I'm not looking forward to that as we live in Saheel 1, so close to the roundabout they will close :(
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 June 2012 - 15:38
Sorry, that's what I meant I forgot what it's called. I think it's 5% of your yearly rent devided by 12 months. :) So if you pay 130000 a year in rent it's about 550 a month.
muurtje
833
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 June 2012 - 15:34
I think the location of the Ranches is very convenient. To get to the DIFC would take no longer then from the Marina. I would take Emirates road and then get on to Al Ain road. The only thing that can be a little busy in the morning is to get out of the Ranches, but nothing serious. In terms or area's, I don't think that any of the area's in the Ranches are bad. It's all nice as far as I'm concerned. The only thing I would look out of is noise from Emirates road. Some of the houses are quite close to it and if you like sitting outside in the evening then it could be a little bothersome. Dewa is expensive as you need to add the villa surcharge to your bill. We no longer have any grass and that made our bills drop drastically. Gardeners vary in price and in quality. I think the average is about 300 a month?? We really love living here!
 
 
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