Stix | ExpatWoman.com
 

Stix

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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 March 2015 - 11:52
Check Fitwoman UAE on Facebook. Classes are 55AED, are outdoors and meet at Marina Mall.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 16:28
I wouldn't know - mine isn't wise, courteous, diplomatic or particularly sensitive. Doesn't help that my husband has an amazing MIL;)
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 16:21
Out of curiosity, what makes Dutch swimming level's so special? Surely an Australian coach could accomplish excellent results as well? I did wonder the same - I gather it's a particular framework the OP wants to follow. I wondered if the person needed to be 'certified Dutch' or a 'certified coach' ;)
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 16:19
I do hope this isn't being hijacked for another measles rant thread already. Undoubtedly it often does run in families but 98% autism due to genes seems a bit on the high side to me. Convenient for any government wishing to divert attention and research funding away from [b'>other possible causes of autism[/b'>. Such as?
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Latest post on 04 March 2015 - 15:24
Shame a toyger couldn't save the day in this case, would have been a great opportunity to open that convo again ;) I can't help in any way but I hope this little kitty has some luck today and maybe a little extra time on his side.
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Latest post on 04 March 2015 - 15:22
I appreciate your thoughts and kind words ladies. There was an Arabic speaker in the car when it happened and my husbands firm has organised all the legal representation so that side of it will hopefully be okay, but yes, dragging on and somewhat stressful.
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Latest post on 04 March 2015 - 14:36
If what you are saying is true, what happens if two locals get into an accident with each other? Would no one be found at fault? My point has nothing to do with that at all. Yorks and Birchy I hope you are right. You have made me feel a little better about things - I'll believe it when it's resolved though. I just don't understand why the court case shouldn't go ahead in his absence so that everyone else could move on. I think my sticking point is that DH has been given the impression (right or wrong from their legal reps and PRO) is that if they had done the same, a ruling would have been made.
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Latest post on 23 February 2015 - 12:46
Cherpie, I have followed your story for a while and I don't think you should go anywhere near a government building or court until you have received legal advice, I think your position, particularly in relation to the custody of your children is precarious.
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Latest post on 19 February 2015 - 15:46
If you didn't pay for travel insurance in advance, unfortunately I would think you, or your MIL, are stuck with the bill.
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Latest post on 19 February 2015 - 04:56
This happens to me at Marina Mall ALL THE TIME! I have a resting b*#ch face and teacher eyebrows, so I usually get a little revenge as the doors close and I wait for the next one.... But hey - I'm the idiot waiting for the next one right! ;) <em>edited by Stix on 19/02/2015</em>
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Latest post on 19 February 2015 - 04:51
So the people on the tram are annoyed with the pace, and the road users are struck waiting at intersections for the giant grey worm that has taken the marina hostage! Has anyone else noticed that they stop the WHOLE intersection, rather than allowing some lanes to continue flowing while the tram goes by (where safe to do so obviously!)?
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Latest post on 19 February 2015 - 04:45
Hello, I am moving to Dubai next month and also need to ship items from Sydney to Dubai. I'm not sure where to start! If anyone has any information or advice I would be so grateful - what company to use? - is it an option for company to dismantle furniture, pack and assemble on the other side? - estimate on cost for half or full container? - how long does it generally take? We have three options for accommodation: (1) get company provided fully furnished accommocdation, (2) get company provided unfurnished accommodation, (3) find our own accommodation (so either bring own furniture or buy new) - any advice on getting company provided accommodation opposed to finding it ourselves?: - would you ship own furniture or purchase in Dubai? - would you ship own white goods/appliances or purchase in Dubai? Thanx so much Rita edited by RITA2015 on 19/02/2015 Hi Rita As mentioned above we used Chess from BNE. They packed everything, and moved all of our stuff into storage, except the air freight allowance we were entitled to. We opted for the furniture allowance and move into an unfurnished apartment. Our storage is paid for while we are in DXB so that's something to consider if you are electing not to bring your own furniture. Would you sell or store? If you plan on selling, do you have the time and patience? The reason we didn't bring our furniture is because furniture is relatively cheap here, and second hand stuff fairly readily available if that's what you want to do. Our apartment here has fridge/dishwasher etc all integrated. If you love your furniture, consider how it will fare after it has been moved internationally, and then moved back again potentially. Depends if you see DXB as a long or short term move too. We live in a 3 br apartment, but came from a 5 bed + study house with two living areas, so our stuff was never going to fit here anyway. I will put it out there and say you may struggle to find a furnished apartment that is to your taste. Where is the company offering the accom? Those decisions really depend on budget/allowances etc. Let me know if I can help any further.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 February 2015 - 14:50
Another might be that a lot of pro-vaccine'ers tend to get verbally mean and personal when trying to be persuasive (yes I have experienced this a lot) which is unpleasant and who wants to be on the receiving end of that? ... but changed our minds when we made the decision to travel overseas, when the risks related to not immunising suddenly went up dramatically. Our decisions were all made on risk assessment and we thought about (agonized even) very carefully indeed and it does upset me when people get mean. It's actually not that easy not to conform, so please consider that people who choose not to vaccinate probably do so after taking into account all the factors important to them and their child (including risk assessment) - these may well be different from yours but does that make them any less valid? 1. No - we aren't mean for pointing out that you are factually incorrect. We probably are frustrated that anti-vaxers refuse to acknowledge science. 2. So you vaccinated when the risks increased for your child? Everyone else who vaccinated their kids on time PROTECTED YOUR CHILD. So yes, I do get cranky when you expose my child to risk in the 'developed' world, but will run off to science when your child is at risk. 3. Yes, their points are invalid. Sorry. #sorrynotsorry
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 February 2015 - 10:44
Get Chess around to do a quote. They walk through your house and let you know how much you will need. It's helpful as visualising how much stuff you have is actually quite difficult.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 January 2015 - 10:18
We used Chess. They were connected with a company here. We had our shipment come by air freight but they also do sea containers. We were happy with them.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 January 2015 - 16:15
Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton didn't cover either during their visits to KSA. Was always going to get attention though.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 January 2015 - 15:51
Nice video Axelle, I only posted the potty thread to liven things up a bit on here, cos there's only so many news items we can talk about, pee being one of them ;) I'm not a judgy pants really [img'>http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2010/057/6/0/Wag_Finger_by_Mirz123.gif[/img'> and I'm not easily disgusted when it comes to kids bodily functions. I come from a big family and have seen much worse than a potty outside a shop. Do you reckon we are allowed to discuss Michelle Obama's hair? Daza - was just wondering the same thing. Was going to start another thread.... Do you have thoughts about her hair?
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Latest post on 29 January 2015 - 15:39
Oh - there is so much I could say. Let me just stick to this - if someone photographed my child, in that state, I would pursue them to the fullest extent of the law.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 January 2015 - 15:26
I have a friend trying to get their licence here - it's a nightmare. Driving here isn't the easiest. Maybe consider some lessons.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 January 2015 - 14:06
I'm not sure what standard of medical care you're used to, but I went to Iranian Hospital once. NEVER AGAIN. <em>edited by Stix on 28/01/2015</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 January 2015 - 08:41
Wow - what a post! So overwhelming and such important decisions for people to make! As a teacher, one thing I will say is this: everyone who has BEEN to school, thinks they are an expert on schools. Things change in education, Dubai is transient, who achieved the highest results in one year means little the next year, cohorts change, parent body changes, staff and leadership change, best practice in pedagogy changes. Determine what your criteria are for your children and look for evidence of success in those areas to determine the best fit for your children. Schools with high academic standards aren't the best fit for every child. Schools with the highest fees may not meet the needs of your child either. You know them best, interview the schools. People here may be Repton parents, Kings parents, NAS parents etc etc, but none of them are the parents of YOUR child. Only you can find the best fit for them. Good luck everyone!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 15:25
I have no other baby gear as my girls are 6 and 4. I have maxi riders for them which should last till they are about 8 apparently. I have heard that seats can get damaged when flying, thrown around a bit. Anyone had any bad experiences? I am not heading there till July or so but just doing some prep work :-) Just keep the box that it comes in, and repack with the foam inserts etc. I didn't just throw mine on the plane - it was all packed in a moving box, and we checked that. If it's got a pic of a carseat on the outside the airline will probably be fine with it. Mine travelled fine.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 14:44
It's funny, I was just thinking the other day how much nicer it is on here now compared to a few months ago. Whilst I am never a fan of out and out nastiness and picking on people, the debates on here are what keeps things interesting and keeps people logging in and posting. I know I wouldn't bother looking in just to answer people's questions on where to find hot sauce and the best place to shop. Daza, yes I do understand that people debate about things on here and my post is just to draw attention to those who log on just so they can say something nasty or pick on others just for the fun of it. Daza hit the nail on the head - that's why people log on. That's what keeps it lively. To be fair pixxydixxy - you don't know why people log on. I don't think you would find many people here who really do just log in to be a b*tch. There have been times when people have had a go at something I've said - most times I've been able to say to myself "fair point - I didn't think about it like that". Other times, I know I just have a genuine difference of opinion with another poster - that's life.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 14:36
I bought mine in Australia and brought it here. Be mindful if you're bringing it on the plane with you - Qantas lets you bring 3 pieces of baby related checked luggage for free - emirates only 2. So if you've got a portacot and a stroller too, you'll be in trouble with the car seat. I'd say check just kidding here - but I appreciated a stress free (but lengthy) conversation at our local baby store at home when making such an important decision. I also think you might find there is more range in a country that does actually mandate little people be securely restrained ;)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 12:01
It depends on the nature of the post. If you're asking for directions, then you probably won't get much in the way of 'debate'. However, if you post about a relationship, or are asking for advice, then - you know the nature of this forum, if you don't want to hear what people have to say - don't post! If you genuinely want the advice of women who have a vast array of experience then this is the place to come. If you want a pat on the back or a counselling session - you can call a friend, or pay for the professional advice by the hour.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 10:56
It's available at Adventure HQ near the counter. Do note however that on registering the car, authorities will peel it off. Was annoyed when it happened to us - had got those stickers all the way from Oz. Wish I had invented them!! They are everywhere in Oz, and a matter of time before we see the same here!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 10:11
I'm not too sure about here, but often tests aren't recommended until you have been trying unsuccessfully for some time. Before I started trying I did get my own blood tested to check my vaccinations were up to date and that hormone levels etc were all okay, and I started a prenatal vitamin. You should also go to the dentist and make sure your teeth are all okay, as some dental treatment during pregnancy can be difficult. Honestly, just have fun and relax. I have been in your shoes and was super anxious and just assumed we would have lots of trouble. There was no existing medical conditions - I just thought we would. Turned out it wasn't so hard after all ;) If you have trouble at first (and many people do) a conversation with a doctor will help point you in the direction of the best tests to do. Keep in mind, there will be more than enough trips to the doctor to last you a lifetime during pregnancy - don't add to it unnecessarily! Best of luck.
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Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 08:32
They keep talking about it, but as I understand, there is no requirement for children to be in a car seat. <em>edited by Stix on 26/01/2015</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 January 2015 - 06:24
Do you mean to rent? I would wait until you get here and actually look at the areas you've mentioned. They are very different, and geographically, nowhere near each other. Won't school and work play a factor in deciding?
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Latest post on 25 January 2015 - 15:18
Check the Events tab. All the coffee mornings, and baby coffee/play dates are listed there :)
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Latest post on 25 January 2015 - 15:08
Thank you all for taking the time to reply. I'm very impressed with your knowledge....which is way more up to date than mine ? We actually would like to retire out of here so that's another 15 plus years. DH is in construction which so far is stable enough. If you're buying a house here and have to leave before the mortgage is cleared, are you allowed to leave and continue paying from wherever you move to or rent it ? That's my concern really. Oh my, construction, stable? lol Took the words out of my mouth! :confused:
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Latest post on 24 January 2015 - 15:24
There was a very detailed thread on this not so long ago. Lots of good points were raised. I think the visa issue is a good one to consider. How many of us truly have job security here that we can guarantee for the next five years? We could all have to be out of here in 30 days! Considering the comparison scenario posed by annorman: equity in a property is only of value if you can move the property when you need to. If you can't, it can be the worst ball and chain you can imagine!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 January 2015 - 10:33
I would do this. It makes sense. I know it wouldn't work for everyone, my husband and I are very committed to our family and family life, however we're both pragmatic and sensible. If there needs to be some separation because it's the most logical thing to do, then we would do it. I do agree with timelines though. I have a friend here, and it ended his marriage. There was no definitive exit plan and he just stayed and stayed. You know your family best. The school year is different in Australia to here, so if we had to go back for the start of a school year, or for me to resume my job, or something like that, we would.
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Latest post on 21 January 2015 - 18:41
haha - no I wouldn't. I am trying to pay a membership and they want it sent by cash to a PO Box. Not happening!
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Latest post on 21 January 2015 - 10:19
They are in the Marina Promenade Al Maya. Don't know the price sorry. Saw them this morning and thought I remembered someone asking.... :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 January 2015 - 07:06
Thunder but no rain yet!! waaaaaah this is exciting! (and makes you want to eat??!) Yes! I was reading the pie thread...... If only my 11 month old understood snuggling in bed watching movies?
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Latest post on 19 January 2015 - 06:49
The rain has arrived at my place! Thunder too.
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Latest post on 16 January 2015 - 20:38
Well..............thank goodness someone said "Run" after the previous replies to the OP's second post. I sat on my hands today because I thought my reply might sound too cynical, but please ladies. don't encourage the OP to continue a relationship which will only bring her a lifetime of unhappiness. To the OP. yes. of course he cried, and sobbed and promised to change.............they all do, the philanderers, the users, the wife beaters. Why did it take a long heart to heart before he realised he was behaving so badly? Because he doesn't know any better, he has no concept of anything other than indulging his own desire, but he will be very adept at convincing you that he is oh so. so sorry, until the next time. It's called being a sociopath, he can never be "normal". it will always be about him. And that sadly is something that will not change. There are decent men out there, don't settle for worse than second best, and don't even begin to think that you can fix the unfixable. And being alone is not as bad as losing your self............which is what will happen if you try. I don't disagree with you. However all of this has been said. There is only so much berating one person needs to hear. It's easy to sit behind our keyboards and tell her all the faults, but she already knows. It's also easier to say 'run' than it is to actually do it. Having a courageous conversation is a step forward, whether it's to an improved relationship, or towards the end of one, it's still a step.
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Latest post on 16 January 2015 - 19:50
I think your desire to have him converse with someone about his position is futile. I doubt you will change his mind. Isn't the real issue how to come to a mutual understanding of how the household will work and what you will teach your children? I think he will understand that this is important. I wouldn't think he will appreciate you trying to change his beliefs, anymore than you would like him doing it to you.
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Latest post on 16 January 2015 - 18:35
Good on you! Your approach sounds very sensible.
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Latest post on 16 January 2015 - 18:23
I'm not sure if they have accommodation to accommodate that many, but try Arabian Escapes. We found they had great rates for our month long stay.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 January 2015 - 10:39
Are you living together already? Has the OP been back? No she hasn't. Is there anything more for her to say? Poor thing.
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Latest post on 15 January 2015 - 07:02
These ladies have their heart in the right place. They have looked out for you much much more in this one instance than he has in the duration of your 'relationship' so please trust the unanimous tone of this thread. Beautifully put. I hate to think what will be going through Bonbon's head when she reads all of this. I know my stomach would be churning and head would be spinning. This is a good examples of EW being there when you can't go to anyone else. Sometimes an impartial ear will tell you what you already know, but don't want to believe.
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Latest post on 14 January 2015 - 18:56
I also think you really need to be on the same page religion wise, especially if you want yor children to be raised believing and practicing. I myself am Muslim (revert) and for me it'a important my future husband feels the same way about religion and family as I do. [b'>I think that when you marry out of infatuation, you won't have nothing left when the love goes. Looks, infatuation, it comes and goes. For me respecting my husband and wanting him to be the father or my kids is really important. [/b'>How will I explain for example the importance of praying 5 times a day if their father, who for me should be an example, never prays? It takes more to be a Muslim that being born with a Muslim name from Muslim parents. If for you religion does play some part in your life, I would not marry him. And as PP said, Islam does not oppose science. edited by Marroosh on 14/01/2015 I don't think the OP is 'infatuated'. She seems sensible and willing to invest time and energy into working out a way forward with a person she obviously cares deeply for. Lack of religious consensus doesn't equal infatuation. My husband and I have different religious traditions and practice our faith in different ways. I still have the deepest respect for him as a person and as a father.
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Latest post on 14 January 2015 - 14:46
Sorry Bonbon - you might be sorry you asked this, as I feel the advice you are going to receive isn't what you want to hear. I suspect you already know this isn't right. You just want to find someone. But I agree with the other posters, you're settling. You two seem to have nothing in common! He is trouble with a capital T! If my partner was paying for someone else's brunch, and complaining about finances, or making comments about paying for me: something isn't right. ALSO - if your instincts tell you something isn't right - it's not. I don't want to be the one to say this, but I would be very, very surprised if there isn't something going on with (at least) one of his female 'friends'.
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Latest post on 14 January 2015 - 10:43
Although I'm not the same religion as you, I completely identified with the way you described your faith. I think I am exactly the same in terms of my level of commitment. My husband is a non believer. We did have many conversations, particularly regarding children etc and it simply boiled down to this: he knew it was more important to me than it was to him so he has agreed to let me 'lead the family in faith matters' ;) At the end of the day, if you can agree that the fundamental tenants of any religion are the most important part, whether you actually believe in the 'story' per se becomes a little less relevant in my view. Good luck!
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Latest post on 13 January 2015 - 18:05
EmmaRitz - I'm sorry you are struggling at the moment. You are right, we all have our mountains. I think that's why this post annoyed me so much because there was judgement on the contribution and value of certain groups. It's natural to compare yourself to others. I look at others and compare myself all the time, even though I am quite a confident person and I'm happy with my life. It sounds like you have the support of your husband which is wonderful. I had a horrible pregnancy and I felt completely useless. I would lie on the couch any chance I got. I couldn't cook or clean. I wouldn't eat. It took all my energy just to get through a day at work. I would want to be in bed at 7pm. I felt like such a bad wife. That's marriage though. Ups and Downs. And that's life too. I hope things get better for you soon .
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Latest post on 13 January 2015 - 14:15
You have misunderstood. I was looking at the wider picture (world improvement for all) but you are looking inwards at your family. Different measures so different perspectives. By the way, out of interest why can't your husband stay home? I too am looking at the wider picture. To answer your question - he earns more?!
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Latest post on 13 January 2015 - 13:46
No - read my post, I want to see more women in the work place to change and influence government and the betterment of mankind. Unfortunately, this will only happen through the lobbying of governments by commercial enterprises and if there were more women in the senior management you'd see more lobbying of 'emotionally' intelligent change. Pressure for a better world longterm not a short term buck. I guess this is very idealised but look around you who is leading this world and look what is happening - sorry but it isn't the SAHM I don't believe I have misunderstood you. I also don't disagree that more women in senior roles is a good thing. I take issue with you trying to erode the importance of stay at home mothers. I have three degrees and have had a wonderful career so far. If my daughter knows that I was able to achieve at university and professionally, but was prepared to sacrifice that in order to support and guide her during her formative years by being there full time that's a role model that I think she is lucky to have. It is also a legacy I'm happy to leave.
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Latest post on 13 January 2015 - 13:19
That was - it is choice. Don't moan about cost of living and ample savings if you want to live on one salary. Off to live my shudderingly shallow expat life, working hard to support my family, improve my mind, [b'>support[/b'> [b'>female[/b'> [b'>empowerment[/b'>, and cover all my bills in old age do as not to be a drain on the state, but yes, how selfish of me ? edited by Cap1tal on 13/01/2015 If you truly supported female empowerment you would actually support other women rather than making massive assumptions about their lives and their ambitions. edited by Daza on 13/01/2015 Thank you Daza!! That has been driving me mad in this post. As per my other comment: 'female empowerment' 'high ranking' 'better job' etc. Cap1tal - your comments are saying that women can only contribute to a better world by being in the workplace. And being 'high ranking' in their workplace at that. <em>edited by Stix on 13/01/2015</em>