reddirtgrrrl | ExpatWoman.com
 

reddirtgrrrl

reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 15:46
The last thing he should've wanted was to disappoint you! He was taking you there as his guest...if there was nothing you fancied then he should have taken you somewhere else. Your husband behaved badly, but perhaps he was also very disappointed. Still, I think he should've taken it like a man. Just apologize and reflect to him that you understand his disappointment. One of you needs to behave like an adult. I find that some grown men just don't "get it" and if you are in love with one of these types then you have to live with it, because you can't teach it... and they can't learn it.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 10 June 2011 - 15:48
Congrats! We use Royal Canin, they have foods for each age and stage...Started with babycat then young cat and now we are on the whiting and rice formula. The key is to not let your cat become overweight through appropriate food portions an regular exercise. I suspect Royal Canin is the British version of IAMS, so go with what is convenient to buy... Congrats, kittens are so much fun.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 09 June 2011 - 19:12
Loreena McKennitt is a brilliant harpist with lovely romantic music.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 20:41
No drinking through straws and no red or purple jelly for three days. Flying or anything else should be fine after a week or so...if in doubt ask the surgeon!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 20:18
Recipe 500 mL water 5 mL table salt. Boil the water for 2 to 3 minutes. Add salt, boil for one more minute and voila, sterile saline solution. Can in babyfood or canning jars and store in refrigerator for up to 2 mos. Use within 48 hours. Sorry you'll have to You tube how to can...but it is really easy and it really works...if you can't find some to purchase I mean. You can also use this to clean wounds that Dr's recommend you "soak", or anything you are really wondering about that looks dodgy...
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 22:33
It's no longer available in the Dubai Tea Centre in Wafi Mall?! Looks delicious, good luck!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 10:36
Babies need differing amounts of vitamins/minerals at different ages. The formula gives a vast array of everything at every feeding. What they need they digest and use and the rest is excreted via poo. ie if their brain is growing they need more fat, if their eyes are developing they need more vitamin A, their bones will eventually calcify. Therefore even though their diet is unchanged their poo changes... Just keep a close eye on it (as you obviously are) and consult a professional if in doubt. I agree about a bit of extra water...as long as your babe is taking adequate amounts of formula a bit of extra water won't hurt in this climate (and with the a/c drying us out etc). Most formulas (the major brands) are 99% the same composition, so it is likely not 'a fault' in the brand per se. Only change if you are really concerned, but if you do change then do it gradually as sometimes babes can get a bit bunged up during the transition. Lastly you are the mum, if you are not satisfied then seek medical advice from someone you trust. You are a great mum.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 09:17
Hello Ladies, Some notes and observations I have made over the 9 years we have travelled back and forth, spending the summers in Canada. Perhaps some of my experiences will help you, or at least make you chuckle… You can expect to repeat ad infinitum: • that you have a comfortable place to live • that you sleep on a bed, • that you have the same or more TV channels • that women are allowed to drive • that you have a regular dishwasher, washer, dryer, toilet, shower, bath, etc… • that you can get the same foods, appliances, furniture, cars, hair products, cleaning products, etc here as at home • that you do not have to "cover up” or wear a veil in public • that English is widely spoken • that for locals to have more than one wife is uncommon You can expect to repeat the above to the exact same people again next summer Things NOT to say/do • This is our only holiday all year, and I was hoping for a few days of just relaxing on the deck. • Can ALL of us just get together for a relaxing casual potluck instead of us driving to each person’s house (to have the same conversations 1:1, see previous item) • Please, can we take it easy on the sweets for the children? (They haven’t seen the children for so long, of course they want to indulge them) • Would it be all right to put the medicine/poison up on top of the fridge and out of reach of my wee child? (What kind of a guest are you to expect people to make such adaptations for you…if you cannot watch your children and keep them safe then you are a bad parent) Other points to consider • No one will be sympathetic or appreciative that you have spent a fortune to get there. They will only remember if you have not spent an equal portion of time with them as with “the others”. • They “know” your flights are free (by now you should realize they know a lot more about you than you know yourself) • People who are otherwise reasonable and sensible will think you have magically become an instant millionaire and that therefore you should regularly pay for the entire group lunch/dinner/drinks/petrol/parking/camping fees/hair appointments • No one will consider the impact of vast amounts of jetlag (we do 12 hours each direction). They have all flown a couple of hours away to the coast and jetlag is no biggie so don’t expect any downtime. • Your children will occasionally collapse, indulging in 5 hour naps during the day. This just means they will be wide awake all night long, likely searching for the poison/Clorox/medicine cupboard/sweetie jar Lastly, all of the above will be done out of love. Mostly your love of your family and friends. You will all cry when it is time to bid adieu. They will not come to visit you, it is too far for them, so just give up on asking. May the force be with each of you ladies this summer! RDG <em>edited by reddirtgrrrl on 07/06/2011</em>
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 21:43
Also hypothyroidism is a very common cause of bad skin and hairloss. Again, the doctor will let you know but you may have to ask for thyroid testing specifically. You do not have to be overweight to have hypothyroidism, and as soon as you treat it you are all better within a couple of days... Good luck!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 08:02
Over the years and locations I have used some others and have had some really dodgy service. This past February, on a friend's recommendation I tried Dubai curtains (yes they are in AD backside of Lifeline hospital on Muroor). The contact I have is Ajith mobile 050 130 9637 They were brilliant, and there is a huge selection. I had chiffons for the hall, lounge and two bedrooms, blackout drapes, regular drapes, and some very swanky fancy OTT beady velvet ones made. The men who came all knew exactly what they were doing, and there were no surprises There is Mawafiq around there so bring a few coins. Cheers
reddirtgrrrl
83
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 23:16
Good point beachymaria, but i doubt if it would really make a big diff, financially to the farmers involved. Not really based on empirical research but the organic farmers I know have spent a fortune, I mean a fortune, to get certified...and in the end all it means is that you do not have anything in your food except food. But ecoli is indigininous to food and has been around a lot longer than organic shtuff. People have died of ecoli enmasse for generatons. I suspect that most organic buyers/shoppers know all about this...though extremely deadly, it is a grade one entry level microbe. Has nothing really to do with organicism... there is just no shaking it; avoid it or get through it (usually a bit of diarreheah, not to be taken lightly). Have a day off or a few if you need them, keep yr physician near enough, and do not be afraid of healthy foods!!!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 22:43
I have done research and published papers in gyne...but I am out of date by 9 years. That said, whether or not to take hormones is a very serious issue to discuss with your physician. If I were to roll a dice (as I don't know you) I would say do not take hormones. But your health deserves better insight so please go to a current professional and listen and ask questions...you will be pleasantly surprised at what your lovely body can do with only a wee bit of help. I guess I am trying to advise to spend as much time with your tuned in gyne as with your herbologist etc. Shine on girls!
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 18:31
I am not an expert but I liked her!
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 17:03
COOL! There you go kissymac! Thanks sewingb!
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 16:49
Al Bateen will have a primary school however I believe it is only up to year 4 for Sept 2011...so you are right BB2 it will not help for kissymac's twins (who will be entering year 5). Sorry kissymac, it was wishful thinking! Apply apply apply and keep your eye on the prize. Good luck to you, this is a nice place once you get settled. <em>edited by reddirtgrrrl on 05/06/2011</em>
reddirtgrrrl
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 19:54
Pipe cleaners, and play dough! Don't forget to bring a pashmina or two on board. I did that trip when my daughter was 18 mos and was very pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. She just loved seeing all the people and being the centre of attention. Good luck!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 15:28
Hi Mom of twins We sponsor a full time live out maid. It is completely legal. She carries with her a letter from us in English and Arabic stating that we support her living out. We have never had an issue with this, and three different PROs, the Philippine embassy and the police have all said it is legal. She only works for us and is aware that it is illegal to work for anyone else under any circumstances. She is a grown woman and and I trust her with babysitting and with all my possessions, so obviously I trust her to live on her own. Her husband works here in the city and she has two grown children also here working at nail salons. She shares a room with her female cousin, enjoys seeing her family on a regular basis. She is very happy with this arrangement as are we. Good luck!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 14:02
Thanks!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 13:46
Just yesterday I had my brows threaded at Nails at Muhairy Centre. Indira is there 10 AM to 6:30PM everyday except Friday. They charged AED 35. I also find that threading lasts longer than waxing and it is not as painful.
reddirtgrrrl
83
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 13:08
As the others have said apply everywhere listed on this thread, there may be vacancies in those year groups...you never know. Do not be discouraged as it can be quite late in August before you get confirmation. I am guessing, but perhaps your best chances to have them all together are with Al Bateen School, which is just going to open in September. Just be patient and keep your eye on the prize. http://albateen.sch.ae/ I have been to open houses on the school and it looks and sounds stunning. Al Dar schools are excellent with a great reputation. Best of luck with everything!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 June 2011 - 10:00
Some ideas: a mani/pedi voucher a donation in their name to Japanese earthquake tsunami relief a nice book donation to the library
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 June 2011 - 09:00
Thanks SJ Aussie, I had the same question...could you give me the name of the dentist you recommend? TIA
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 June 2011 - 20:32
Christianity, among other religions, is accepted and is greatly respected here. The expectation is that one is not to try to convert others, but one is respected to practise their faith, and it is an expectation to respect the many other faiths. Best of luck on the move, you will like it here once you get through the jigsaw of settling.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 18:29
You are a saint. We have travelled around the world many times with children and have never asked for so much as a glass of milk or a packet of crackers. We bring what we need then go purchase what we need, or what we have forgotten. It's not a big deal, that's just a parent's responsibility... That said, can we book in to your place for a holiday???:cool:
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 08:07
I would recommend going to a good Doctor who will guide you through these steps of elimination. I do not know Dr Shola but based on what has been said here I would go to her. The reason I would recommend going to an experienced pediatric generalist is that she will look at everything, not just neuro, not just psych, and she will know other resources to consult if necessary. Also, it sounds like she listens to parents and has a good bedside manner. As a parent, this is important, you NEED to be heard. She will have the skills and experience with a wide variety of children and will have the professional knowledge to guide you through the "process of elimination" in a methodical, empirical manner. I would make notes to be sure to tell Dr Shola everything, and would follow her recommendations taking notes...make sure you have a notebook to document everything done and the results, questions you have, and answers given. As this may take a while to get to the bottom of it all...but you WILL!!! Lastly I would recommend that you look after yourself. Your daughter is doing well at school and otherwise thriving. She is so lucky to have such a resourceful caring mother. Wish I could give you a hug, Cyber Hugs from RDG
reddirtgrrrl
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 07:47
Thank you M and S, BB and Eli, Your advice is much appreciated and I will definitely follow. I am over it now! Kind regards, RDG
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 11:39
Last month I had 2 maps drymounted above Spinney's Kahlidiyah and they were aed 50 each. When I wanted a third one done I went to Posters in Al Wahda mall and they gave me a quote of AED 140 for the exact same thing. In the past I have had framing done at both places and they both do a good job, but the one above Spinney's is much less expensive. Good luck!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 17:06
HCG is secreted by the chorion of a fetus. There are no guarantees ever (as sadly, you likely know better than most) but you have a chorion!!! Congrats!!!) It is always dodgy for the first trimester (, or for about the first 12 weeks or so, to be more precise). Not much you can do will help or hinder this miracle. If the fetus is called back then it is not your fault. Just breathe in and out, look after yourself. This is how it all begins! Hugs,
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 16:40
In all the abu dhabi forums, its a thread about schooling- more specifically about BC/BSAK/Yasmina which gets the maximum views- goes to show how worried/curious everyone is about BC. Carolwags, thanks for the reassurance. It is good to know that BSAKers are moving!! Next thing on my agenda to worry about - racism :) Oh well! Hopefully their kindness policy will deal with any issues which may arise. And she has to learn( my daughter I mean) ETA- thread aside of the current affairs I mean.. edited by Smita on 04/05/2011 Thank you for bringing this up. Racism is a very serious issue here. We are white westerners and are appalled by the well established racism. Really it has kept me up at night worrying about what kind of environment are we supporting. Best of luck to you, I tell my daughter that good people are royal from the inside, are gracious, and are kinder than they have to be. I always reiterate that because she has much privilege and many opportunities here, that I have higher expectations regarding her grace and charitable deeds. We have been here a very long time and now have a bit less tolerance for racism, and will only associate with like minded people. So I suppose I am racist against racists. Tell your children to hold their heads high and enjoy their school. This is their home.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 10:07
I recently had a similar situation with my twenty four year old niece. Her mom IS her FB friend, which really befuddles me. It bothered me for a long time, then I realized it was MY problem, so I just unfriended her, so as to no longer be bothered. Her mom will have to sort her out (or not). I think your cousin is lucky to have someone who cares about her, and you will do the right thing.
reddirtgrrrl
83
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 09:11
I used to live near Zadco. It is a great area (Corniche, shops) but the problem with the areas around Zadco is the parking situation is impossible. Even if you are given parking spaces there will always be issues for guests. If you go a bit further (but not too far) the situation improves dramatically. I would suggest you try the Al Nahyan Camp area, located between 11th and 13th (Delma) and 4th (Muroor) and 8th (Salam). There are many quite new friendly little compounds in there, it is close to Al Wadha mall, many small shops, Jones the Grocer, and the One to One hotel, etc etc. Not sure if this is still accurate as rents change all the time, but I was looking in January and a three bedroom with a maids quarters and shared pool and gym was going for AED 220K. There are also two bedrooms, which are very nice. They were going through Green Emirates so give it a google. We are here, it has a very nice vibe about it and the convenient location has really improved our lives! We love it!!! No I do not get a commission, in case you are wondering!!! Best of luck to you!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 13 March 2011 - 23:18
Hi Shaf! Congrats! Daughters are great! Just a word of advice regarding your daughter's topical skin infection. I would not recommend powder, just the treatment ointment. If you do use powder make sure it has NO cornstarch as cornstarch is food and will feed the yeast, and thus will perpetuate the problem. Yeast loves dark, warm and moist. To fight it you need light, cool and dry. Not easy on a baby's neck. I don't think I even saw my daughters neck til she was 3 months old!!! Good luck to you both and just enjoy her!
reddirtgrrrl
83
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Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 15:44
I also am a resident under my husband's sponsorship. Last year when I began working my employer's PRO arranged to get me a labour card. At that time it was AED 500 or 600 for a year. Good luck with your new job!
 
 
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