xmasbaby | ExpatWoman.com
 

xmasbaby

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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 May 2013 - 14:50
Definitely 12 months. I'm not sure where you live but a friend of ours told us that they live in a building compound and their landlord has sent round notices saying the same thing. They called him up and challenged him and sure enough he's agreed for them to stay. Some are trying their luck! We filed our case with RERA tomorrow and our hearing is 29 May so within 2 weeks..but that was after several attempts at coming to an agreement with our landlord. He basically told us the rules don't apply to locals (him being local) - so we'll see. I would suggest you reach out to him first and then if all fails, file and case and seek costs. Good luck, seems as rent price increase landlords are really trying their luck.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 May 2013 - 11:10
We loved it. Yes the venue wasn't the best and the seats were not super comfortable but once the lights dimmed, I could only see the show which in my view was spectacular! Amazing costumes, dancers, dead silence but for the music - truly breathtaking!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 May 2013 - 11:07
There are tons of threads and hands down, the One & Only is always raved about as an experience!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 14:21
We are going tonight...and now I feel so discouraged. Dh bought for me for Mothers day and included our dd as she is really into ballet and just did her RAD exam so he thought she'd benefit. He could only get the 9pm show (our dd is normally in bed by 7!) but thought it was worth it for her to see. Now I am dreading it, based on reviews on the venue/seating. :(
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 11:28
Nippy, I am so pleased that you updated us. I often wonder how you are. I am so proud of you and all that you accomplished and rest assured your 3 year old will adjust. Its a big move, new school and his dad no longer being around but children are resilient and he will be fine. You have done the best thing for you and your family and I wish other women in your plight have the strength that you showed. New doors will open but sounds to me like you are really doing well already! Best wishes and please do keep us updated.x
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 10:09
OH Xmasbaby - an afterthought... If you have an addendum to your lease that is typed in English, but not in Arabic you will need to have this translated into Arabic as well. But it will have to be done by an official legally notarised translator to be recognised by the court. One of the typing centres facing the Union Square Metro Station had access to a notarised translator but it was an overnight job, so you might need to factor that into your timeframes. Thats great. I've armed dh with the info and he's heading over there. Thanks again.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 09:02
take copies of all the correspondence you have from your LL to prove he is playing silly games. We filed our case a few years ago now at the rent committee in the municipality building by the Creek. We had to go and pay the fee and then got all the details typed at the typing desk there into arabic. We just told the typing guys exactly what the LL had said and supplied them with the back up documents. we won our case - it was cut and dried. good luck - sounds like you have a water tight case too. Thank you Clairehdp! I appreciate your response.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 09:01
Yes but they are asking for it in Arabic? Does this make sense? An arabic letter to file the case? Of course - Arabic is the officially language of this country.... Yes I realise that Arabic is the official language Splinters. Thank you. I also asked below where the people filing disputes had their documents translated and whether they had to be in a specific format. You have a nice day.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 09:01
Yes but they are asking for it in Arabic? Does this make sense? An arabic letter to file the case? Yes, the official record of complaint has to be in a specific format and in Arabic. Keep it as simple as possible. Supporting documents can be in English. We had ours translated at one of the typing centres at Union Square - close to the Municipal Building. All the official documentation is in Arabic - including the schedule of hearings and the results of the hearings. A lot of the talk that goes on within the hearing will also be in Arabic. You will need to find a friend to translate or have it officially translated back to English to understand it. We had only just arrived in Dubai when we had our hearings so didn't have anyone with us. But to be honest, they are great guys and fair. They were happy to paraphrase what our shonky LL was trying to get away with. Brilliant - thank you for this information!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 May 2013 - 23:15
Happy Mothers Day Appletiser. We did our celebrating on Friday as I'm working tomorrow! lol
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EW GURU
Latest post on 11 May 2013 - 23:05
Hi - our landlord doesn't want to renew stating that he wants to sell. Either way we would like to take it to the rental tribunal. They've given my dh the forms saying it needs to be in arabic in a specific format. For anyone thats done this, did you write in English then have it translated. Where did you have it translated? How could you verify if it was accurate. What did you write - did you go into facts? For example, ours told us it was sold, then when we asked for the new landlords details, said that it wasn't, then said he wanted to raise the rent by 60k and we directed him to the rental index and now said he said we need leave as his son needs it - we have all of this in writing from him and ideally would want the committee to see this or should we keep it simply, he is refusing to give us 12 months notice. Any suggestions would be appreciated. TIA has to give you 12 months notice at the end of your contract whether his son is moving in or not..... no you need to give them everything they will then see he is up to playing games etc edited by busybee2 on 11/05/2013 Yes but they are asking for it in Arabic? Does this make sense? An arabic letter to file the case?
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 09:52
I buy a gift online to have shipped to her. Perfume this year. Hopefully anyway. I spent a good deal of time trying to purchase something for my mom yesterday on US websites, and one after the other, they declined my foreign card. Very frustrating. I [i'>think[/i'> I finally had success, but still am waiting on the processing confirmation from the shop. It never used to be this tricky to use my UAE CC on US websites. I feel like over the past year, it's gotten much more difficult - I recall Christmas shopping was more difficult than usual this year, too. Has anyone else noticed this? It's a real nuisance. Yes! Its become quite frustrating! Thats why I am now resorting to calling the store directly. The staff get quite a kick out of it - OOOh you're in Dubai, sure we can help you! and I find, they go out of their way to make the gifts special (giftwrap add flowers etc) at no extra charge. <em>edited by xmasbaby on 08/05/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 09:39
We always buy flowers, or I contact a local spa and get a voucher and have them email/mail it to them - manicure/pedicure/massage/etc This year, however, I bought my mum a necklace from Swarovski (I called a local shop and paid by cc), and asked them to deliver the day before Mothers Day. For my motherinlaw, I got her a kindle, the case, and linked it to my account so that it has about 50 books already downloaded onto it. I had it shipped directly to her from amazon. I also purchased tickets for Wizard of Oz for when we'll be home in the summer and got her a ticket to join us. In the card that I mailed, I printed a snapshot of the ticket. In both, I wrote heartfelt messages as I am truly blessed with my mums!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 19:34
is that 80,000 or 800,000 you have, if its the latter, go book a flight. 800000 - so I went on to book a flight and whenever I enter departure airport (dubai, dxb, or anthing) it says it doesn't recognise airport code or city!! I may give them a call... YEAH!!! I am super excited. I really really need a break. Dxb - UK was 300,000 return, this was peak season. Please remember you have to use them within a certain time frame, or you lose. Honestly, this is the best news I've heard all day.... I had no clue what to do with them. Thanks ladies!!!!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 16:59
You must be Spinneys favourite customer :-P Must remember to use this! How long did it take you to get so many? Not very long...maybe 6-7 months I think. It said I gained 71000 last month but I put everything on my cards and pay off monthly so maybe they add up
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 16:57
is that 80,000 or 800,000 you have, if its the latter, go book a flight. 800000 - so I went on to book a flight and whenever I enter departure airport (dubai, dxb, or anthing) it says it doesn't recognise airport code or city!! I may give them a call... YEAH!!! I am super excited. I really really need a break.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 16:43
What to do with them? I have over 800000 (those blue ones) of those airmiles UAE. I'd love a trip as I've been under a great deal of stress lately but I understand they are only usable for items - any suggestions. Have you been on their website and had a look :-) I did a while ago and there was stuff like ipads and stuff but nothing that I need.. I need relaxation - but judging from responses, it looks like they may have some more options so will check it out! TA
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 15:36
Sending you hugs and prayers. I am so sorry. I think I would want to watch a sunrise, sunset, in solace, with my loved ones and sit and share memories/laughs good times. I would also do a recording that I could listen to so I could hear my loved one's voice when need be. My grandfather was dying of cancer when I was younger and he made me a tape. He didn't say much other than I love you, you will go on to do great things, you must always respect people, remember where you came from and hold yourself with dignity. It was literally a 10 minute message but at times when I feel low I listen to it. He was very ill and his voice had changed but now with time/age, I dont' remember how he really sounded and all I hear is the message. Perhaps you can have her say a message to you and/or your son. It need not be I'm giving up but rather, some special words and perhaps you can do the same for her so that when she gets back home, she can also hear you cheering her on. x <em>edited by xmasbaby on 07/05/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2013 - 14:26
I know it sounds crazy but have you had her thyroid levels checked. I started stammering when I was teen due to my thyroid levels being off. Once I was on the on the required medication, it stopped. I recall that the doctors didn't make the connection but to date, whenever, there's something wrong with my levels, I stammer. good luck x
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 16:33
It's called a small [i'>kabuti[/i'>, apparently. Friend's grandmum just told us. Ok thanks! Wish me luck!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 15:52
Not sure I have an answer, but if you know which culture this tradition belongs to (Sindhi, Punjabi, Gujrati, Bengali, Tamil etc etc), I might have friends who will know. I think they may be gujrati. She sent me a you-tube video. It almost looked like a little drum (handheld) and she was shaking it. I went online and searched hindu ceremoney sisters role and every post referred to it as "sister shaking a little pot with coins inside!" - the same way my friend did. LOL
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 May 2013 - 12:33
was disappointed for my wee one. She was so tired by the time he came on but did pep up and enjoy the concernt. I would never go to one of his concerts again and I thought it was a complete let down. His one performance before running offstage, the videos, it was unbelievable. Ashamed that he was Canadian as well due to his attitude.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 10:11
Its considered a benefit and comapnies either provide or not. In our company, we are each provided an annual flight home for family once a year. If the flight is longer than 5 hours, they opt for the cheapest direct route. This cannot be cashed and if you don't use it, you lose it. My husband's company gives him one flight cash value that he can use on whatever he wants.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 16:20
Great news!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 14:34
The pharmacy at American Hospital- 75AED
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 11:56
We have visitors coming in at the end of the month... I wonder when the no visa will come into effect? Probably not soon enough, both articles state that the agreements are being finalised over the next month.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 09:26
I would have to agree if it were my last brunch in Dubai, it would have be Al Qasr, in the abortoreum.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 09:02
It is illegal to sublet villas in the UAE, regardless if the landlord approves. Its one family per villa.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 08:47
Yeah....Etihad hasn't acquired AC but at least visa nonesense sorted! Here's another link http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/04/02/canada-united-arab-emirates-quash-visa-quibble/
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EW GURU
Latest post on 01 April 2013 - 11:31
Goodnight Moon Love you Forever
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EW GURU
Latest post on 01 April 2013 - 10:52
Frankly speaking coming from Canada where you get xmas holidays of 2 weeks, March Break of 1 week and thats it, I find the number of school holidays here unbelievable. Seems they're never in school. I welcome the 2 additional weeks.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 15:06
Reading that story has just broken my heart. wish i hadnt clicked on the link. :'( Honestly, two articles today are bearing down on me. What has this world come to. Is the second one also on here? if so, please tell me what it is so i dont accidentally read it. i think im done for today with this one! yes its the one I posted called hot oil on maid. Don't read!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 15:04
Its just very frustrating all round this will be our 4th move and its my daughter i feel for, she will have to leave friends and neighbours and make new friends yet again. Nothing has been learned here. I know the feeling but I think even if we had moved to another area, we'd be in a similar situation. It is the greed of the LL;s and we're at their mercy unless we buy.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 15:02
Reading that story has just broken my heart. wish i hadnt clicked on the link. :'( Honestly, two articles today are bearing down on me. What has this world come to.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 14:42
We're on The Villa too, just before the end of our first year, we got the usual b/s about change of job, need the house back etc etc. - werent given 60 days notice, then he tried an increase, again no, we were still just in the bracket. Then we got the years notice stating he wants it for his own use and the 'non renewable' contract. I just absolutly detest the greed of this place, there has been absolutely no improvement on facilities here and our courtyard has still not been landscaped. It is my understanding that if the landlord rents the house out again we can sue him for costs does anyone know the status on that. At least you stuck to your guns and got the 12 months notice. In terms of your latter paragraph, I heard the same but I'm not sure the status. Personally, in 12 months, I would have at least had time to consider the market and budget for the rent increase. I have no regrets moving to the Villa, having saved substantially (in fact, an entire years rent in the two years I've been here) having moved from the Ranches. I like the location, its close to our kids school, work etc. I was here during the boom and all landlords were trying it on - now we have laws to protect us. I have friends at the Ranches whose landlords are also trying to increase 60K this year so while there's a lot in the Villa, its also happening in other parts as well.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 14:35
Her Moroccan employer probably thought she could get away with the attack because her maid was illegal. She learned her lesson, didn't she? I hope her husband also gets fined 50,000 dirhams for using an illegal! I wish they would have to pay 50,000 AED plus all medical fees plus jailtime - seriously what kind of person does this to another being. Illegal employment is one issue, assault, torture, is another. I get a little burn on my finger cooking, and its painful to no end, can you imagine this poor women.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 12:21
This is awful! The employer must be arrested, what kind of person does this?? And who will pay the medical bills? Poor maid, I hope GN can set up a way for her to receive donations to help to pay for her treatment. I don't know but I feel compelled to help.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 12:16
Thanks, we will notify him with 60 days notice of our intent to renew. I am not going to point out the law to him that is his responsibility to find out as LL. Just wanted to make sure we were right in our thinking. @Xmas baby. You are at The Villa too right? There seems to be a huge amount of people here going through this... Yes, I am! I think its because now in phase 2/3 there is grass and play areas, the LL's are trying to get more money. Our landlord told us in December, they sold it, then asked us to start showing it, then said, they wanted to sell it and now has told us that he needs it for personal use. He's local man listed as the landlord but owns an investment company that owns tons of villas and so we often get communicated to by them. In my view, he/the company knows the law but is trying to bully us so he can raise the rent as we're still within the rental index (albeit at the low end!). We have gone to RERA several times but they have advised us to send the notarised letter stating our intention to renew despite his letter to vacate. They said let him challenge it so that he can pay the 5%.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 11:58
I put mine in gymnastics and ballet, initially as I thought it would be good at developing their motor skills. As they get older, I ask them what they'd like to try. So far its been tennis, piano (which they still do), karate, jazz, swimming, gym and ballet, hip hop, football. My oldest has opted to continue with her top three choices...problem is there's still not enough time to do those as she gets more involved in each. I agree ECA's are a great way to keep children busy and out of trouble and develop a healthy lifestyle.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 11:52
It needs to be 12 months written notice signed by a notary and delivered to you. We are going through the same thing with our landlord. We went to RERA and they advised that we get a letter from a the notary, stating our intention to renew. They said, ll can then file a case and they said worse case, we would get 12 months from the date, of the letter he sends that is notarised.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 09:20
There are a few other Americans and Canadians at my children's schools (British curriculum).
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 09:18
Sorry you're so upset. You won't be injesting it, so wash your hands and move on. I would be shocked if one truly believes they've never come into contact with a derivative of **** ever...I know you're upset but it wasn't intentional and next time read the label before bringing it home. <em>edited by xmasbaby on 25/03/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 15:42
We have a driver, a maid to assist and a family member from either side of the family most of the school year to do the school runs/ECA's. Not ideal for everyone but so far its working for us. My employer would allow me to leave to do the school run but it was just to hectic as i'm in a senior role and it became difficult with scheduling meetings, (particularly cross-jurisidictional where time zone issues) etc. I leave earlier than most though in the office and often work from home at night once they are asleep. I'm happy, kids are happy and all good in our world :) Good luck!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 14:59
Shams and Dubai Olympics are both based on the USA level system. I've heard mixed positive reviews from both. Du Gym also has a good reputation. here's an old post that you might find helpful. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=140410 edited by xmasbaby on 24/03/2013 Thank you. Yes I saw this, but I was wanting a little bit more 'juice' on the differences.... Why not do a trial class at each one, speak to the coaches and see which one you and your kids prefer? Chances are people haven't tried both Shams and DO, but one or the other. For example, my kids go to DO but thats only because that was the first one that I became aware of that did the US system. I won't move them now b/c they are settled and progressing well. However, thats not to say had I checked out Shams first, I wouldn't have opted for them.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 14:47
Enjoy your holiday. Personally not a place I would visit either at the moment. Having grown up in a big city, where crime is rampant, I have comfort knowing that the justice system works in the vast majority of cases. I don't have the same faith in India given recent reports and even reading comments below. Groping women being accepted by some that just blows my mind and where I come from that would be assault -so yes perhaps the rates may be higher but that might because most "groping" would be immediately reported and chargeable.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 12:21
Shams and Dubai Olympics are both based on the USA level system. I've heard mixed positive reviews from both. Du Gym also has a good reputation. here's an old post that you might find helpful. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=140410 <em>edited by xmasbaby on 24/03/2013</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 17:14
The labourers would revolt much like the French revolution! He insisted this was the case and I should just wait - this was 4 years ago mind, and as far as I know it hasn't happened yet lol! ! They striked a couple of years ago.... think it ended in jail time and deportation for some.... I remember that!! I was living on the Palm. It was halloween and we had just moved from North America. I looked out the window and saw them all marching wearing all white.... stupidly thought it was a halloween parade for a split second before I realised it was the labourers protesting. I do remember that it didn't go down all to well.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 16:29
Xmasbaby, it's actually called that. Got it in Boots in MCC. http://www.farmeco.com/pages/content0.html# Thanks!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 15:31
A couple of years ago I started getting dark marks in my face. I went to the dermatologist and said it was probably because of the side effects of the Pill. I've tried and stopped taking the pill for a while but the situation didn't improve much. I've been using a La Roche Possay cream for pigmentation but I've realized that it doesn't have great effects. I use SPF 50, and when I'm at the beach I'm always with a hat and sunglasses but even like this I still get more and more marks. This situation is really depressing me. I just want my face to go back to normal. Any successful stories regarding pigmentation? Thanks MrsMopp - is there a particular AHACID cream that you're using or is it actually called that? I got pigmentation when I was pregnant. It appeared over night and its been bad for quite a few years. I tried CellexC as recommended by a dermatologist, but although it made my skin lovely didnt touch the brown markings. I have however just changed my skin care to Bioderma 'white objective' and have seen a huge difference, particularly on my forehead. I also am using AHACID cream ( from Boots) just on the pigmented areas, and have been very very pleased. I also use Bioderma spf100 tinted everyday instead of a foundation, its like a tinted moisturiser. Im out in the sun a good 2 hours a day and have never caught the sun on my face with this on.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 15:01
wow, these sound extravagant!! What years are these for? I recall going to Quebec city from Toronto in grade 7 but that was our only out of town trip which took 10 hours on a bus! Now that I think about it, it must have been quite expensive for my parents..Otherwise, it was local sites, like pioneer village, the zoo etc I hope