Since I was pregnant Ive suffered really badly with sciatica. Its a dull ache all down one side of the back and legs. Normally comes on when Ive been carrying a bag thats too heaving, walking to much, shopping etc.
My husband is very happy that after 15 minutes of walking around La Canada - I get sciatica - for him its great.
I read an article a while back about epidurals causing sciatica but never found it since. Last night I was talking to a back Specialist. He asked if I had this pain before pregnancy - I said no. But I didn have epidural and not only that - but they put it in wrong where I was only numb one side. So they had to do it again. This is it he said!
Its really awful, for nearly 6 years Ive been suffering with this and the past couple of weeks its got worse where even putting my weight on one particular side, I have cramps and pain travelling up the whole leg from the foot to the base of back.
So if you are suffering from this kind of pain after pregnancy and having an epidural - then this is the reason.
Stretching is very important every day.
If you have been through this and have any advice do leave a comment.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Fantastic Food & A Little Choking in Nueva Andalucia
I had some wonderful food last night and even tried something Ive never eaten before - artichoke. Its so nice mixing and meeting different people, last night there was English, Belgium, French & Spanish - how international are we?
We went round to friends again, this time 4 couples and all the kids. Since we have moved our social life has been hectic, we are so busy with invites to bbqs, dinners, lunch - its great.
Its 11.21am and I only just got up, my daughter is still sleeping as last night was another late night but a great night. Except for the choking bit...explain later.
It was set up lovely with a table for the kids and table for the adults. All the kids ate a little earlier, fried chicken and rice which was delicious - if this was for the kids, I couldnt wait to see what was for us.
For starters came this plastic parcel which had artichokes, mushrooms, spinach, esparagus and scallops - my husband was very excited as he hadnt had scallops for years. Ive never had artichoke before but it was really tasty.
Then main course came. Out came another beautifully filo pastry parcel filled with meat with potato cream around. OMG it was delicious...I was told the meat was beef but had no idea what part of the cow it was. Later I found out it was the Cheek and had been cooked for 24 hours.
It was so delicious and so tender the meat just melted in your mouth. For dessert another delicious cake that went down very well.
Then the embarassing bit, I was at the table chatting and picking on the after 8 chocolates that I bought and all of a sudden I couldnt breath. It was like I could catch my breath and my whole throat was open - it was awful. I couldnt talk couldnt say what was wrong. My husband was walking around the house along with the nurse that was actually there too. My other friend didnt know what was wrong and was patting me on the back thinking I had something stuck.
After what seemed like hours but probably only a minute my husband came and tried to get me calm to relax and breath again. It was awful. I think it was where the mint from the chocolates was so strong and talking - I took in too much air or something - but on top of that I had allery. I dont think watching "House" every night on tv helps.
Kids were swimming till 12pm then playing with their little presents . Go Gos - apparently the new thing. I was really impressed how this 5 year olds played and when one of them lost all of them - others would offer them theres.
Another wonderful evening sitting outside, eating, chatting with lovely people reminding us of the reasons why we live here.
BTW - the hosts are caterers for weddings, parties all sorts of events and if you are interested just email me and Ill put you intouch. The meat parcels were fantastic!
We went round to friends again, this time 4 couples and all the kids. Since we have moved our social life has been hectic, we are so busy with invites to bbqs, dinners, lunch - its great.
Its 11.21am and I only just got up, my daughter is still sleeping as last night was another late night but a great night. Except for the choking bit...explain later.
It was set up lovely with a table for the kids and table for the adults. All the kids ate a little earlier, fried chicken and rice which was delicious - if this was for the kids, I couldnt wait to see what was for us.
For starters came this plastic parcel which had artichokes, mushrooms, spinach, esparagus and scallops - my husband was very excited as he hadnt had scallops for years. Ive never had artichoke before but it was really tasty.
Then main course came. Out came another beautifully filo pastry parcel filled with meat with potato cream around. OMG it was delicious...I was told the meat was beef but had no idea what part of the cow it was. Later I found out it was the Cheek and had been cooked for 24 hours.
It was so delicious and so tender the meat just melted in your mouth. For dessert another delicious cake that went down very well.
Then the embarassing bit, I was at the table chatting and picking on the after 8 chocolates that I bought and all of a sudden I couldnt breath. It was like I could catch my breath and my whole throat was open - it was awful. I couldnt talk couldnt say what was wrong. My husband was walking around the house along with the nurse that was actually there too. My other friend didnt know what was wrong and was patting me on the back thinking I had something stuck.
After what seemed like hours but probably only a minute my husband came and tried to get me calm to relax and breath again. It was awful. I think it was where the mint from the chocolates was so strong and talking - I took in too much air or something - but on top of that I had allery. I dont think watching "House" every night on tv helps.
Kids were swimming till 12pm then playing with their little presents . Go Gos - apparently the new thing. I was really impressed how this 5 year olds played and when one of them lost all of them - others would offer them theres.
Another wonderful evening sitting outside, eating, chatting with lovely people reminding us of the reasons why we live here.
BTW - the hosts are caterers for weddings, parties all sorts of events and if you are interested just email me and Ill put you intouch. The meat parcels were fantastic!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Mac El Corte Ingles Puerto Banus
I find it a real worry when for over a year ive been using a concealer by Mac which they actually told me to use after a little make over.
Ive been using it and then taking it back to be replaced and I always ask if its still the right shade for me....si si si.
Well the other day I went and there was a different girl...once again I take my empty and she says I think this one would be better....the one you have is for blonde people with a yellow tone....try this one, its for darker skin with a pink tone.
Ive always felt that the other one wasnt perfect - but didnt want to argue with the "Professionals".
The one I have now is fantastic.
Mac Concealer is probably one of the best value for money for the amount you get. At the moment there is 10% off making it about 14€uros but it lasts a long time and its got 10mls in when some concealers only have half that amount.
Ive been using it and then taking it back to be replaced and I always ask if its still the right shade for me....si si si.
Well the other day I went and there was a different girl...once again I take my empty and she says I think this one would be better....the one you have is for blonde people with a yellow tone....try this one, its for darker skin with a pink tone.
Ive always felt that the other one wasnt perfect - but didnt want to argue with the "Professionals".
The one I have now is fantastic.
Mac Concealer is probably one of the best value for money for the amount you get. At the moment there is 10% off making it about 14€uros but it lasts a long time and its got 10mls in when some concealers only have half that amount.
Andalucian Dream Homes Building Puerto Banus
Work has started on the Andalucian Dream Home Building in Puerto Banus in front of where Hard Rock Cafe Puerto Banus is going to be and near English Bookworld Espana.
Its a great site, that area is looking good with Spejos taken over Anthonys Jewellers, Hardrock Cafe etc etc.
Anyone know whats its going to be?
Its a great site, that area is looking good with Spejos taken over Anthonys Jewellers, Hardrock Cafe etc etc.
Anyone know whats its going to be?
Chinese Shop Puerto Banus - Cheap Chearful Shops in Puerto Banus
Puma has closed down in Puerto Banus and next door has opened.....yes one of my favourite shops.....a Chino Bazar!
Full of cheap tat, well I say cheap, but I´m sure its more expensive than the ones in San Pedro as its in Puerto Banus, but still useful for parents on a budget that want to just treat the kids for a Euro.
Full of cheap tat, well I say cheap, but I´m sure its more expensive than the ones in San Pedro as its in Puerto Banus, but still useful for parents on a budget that want to just treat the kids for a Euro.
Radley La Cañada Marbella
I keep forgetting to mention shops that have opened up in La Cañada Marbella.
Firstly Radley that does bags and purses etc have opened up upstairs near Imaginaruim. Levis Shop has opened up opposite FNAC.
There is a new shop called Hazel (I think) thats sells some really nice little bits, shoes, clothes, accessories etc.
Terrasana is opening up in the old bit of La Cañada on the left between the 2 exits of Alcampo....saw the cakes in the fridge yesterday - so maybe it opened today.
All the shops have sales on and some have done their 2nd Discount - Zara Home one of them.
Firstly Radley that does bags and purses etc have opened up upstairs near Imaginaruim. Levis Shop has opened up opposite FNAC.
There is a new shop called Hazel (I think) thats sells some really nice little bits, shoes, clothes, accessories etc.
Terrasana is opening up in the old bit of La Cañada on the left between the 2 exits of Alcampo....saw the cakes in the fridge yesterday - so maybe it opened today.
All the shops have sales on and some have done their 2nd Discount - Zara Home one of them.
Drive Carefully in Marbella - Bad Drivers are Around
Please please take extra care on the road at the moment. Assume anything and everything is my best bit of advice I can give.
Twice so far this week I have had someone drive towards me on a rather busy roundabout. Ive even driven around it a couple of times to make sure its not 2 way now.
Yesterday on the way to La Canada - I nearly had so many accidents where people are driving about 10km p hour and really badly in the car parks.
Many Moroccans are driving back home for the summer and their cars are loaded up - stay as far away as poss as more often than not they cant even see you as their cars are so full. Sometimes the load ontop is so top heavy it looks like the car is going to topple over.
Just drive assuming people are going to stop, go, come from your left and your right, all directions. Keep your distance.
Twice so far this week I have had someone drive towards me on a rather busy roundabout. Ive even driven around it a couple of times to make sure its not 2 way now.
Yesterday on the way to La Canada - I nearly had so many accidents where people are driving about 10km p hour and really badly in the car parks.
Many Moroccans are driving back home for the summer and their cars are loaded up - stay as far away as poss as more often than not they cant even see you as their cars are so full. Sometimes the load ontop is so top heavy it looks like the car is going to topple over.
Just drive assuming people are going to stop, go, come from your left and your right, all directions. Keep your distance.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Review of Holiday Apartment in Marbella
A great review of Holiday Apartment in Marbella.
"We looked at lots of apts in P.Banus but settled on this one after reading all the positive reviews. The apt is clean and well decorated but not pristine, which suited us perfectly as we have 2 toddlers and would have been on walking on eggshells had we rented some of the other apts we looked at, particularly the all white ones. The owner also went above and beyond in preparing the apt for us, even down to buying an additional travel cot. The apt was very well equipped for babies/toddlers with highchair, toys and even a stair gate - all at no additional cost. The pools in the complex were great too - something for everyone (even those wanting to escape children!).The apt was in a great location - v. convenient to supermarket, cafes and restaurants. It's also possible to walk to the port, although the pavements are not great for pushchairs. All in all we had a fabulous time here."
To stay in this apartment go to www.lamaestranza.eu
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Bag Snatchings in Nueva Andalucia
Ok, once again, Ive heard of a couple of bags being snatched in Nueva Andalucia. Unbeleivable the past 2 days considering the amount of police around for the Davis Cup.
Walking up that road to Centro Plaza, please take care.
Dont walk with your bag the side of the road.
Dont take a bag if you really dont need.
Keep keys separate.
Even try keep Cash & Cards Separate incase someone just dips in to grab a purse.
Go to Cash Points when the banks are open is best - incase of any problems.
Dont leave anything in your car. We know of people that have had every suitcase and bag taken out of it.
This stuff is going on all over and I still feel safer here than in London, but its a small area so you hear of everything.
When people come on holiday, they relax, leave windows open, dont lock doors, leave stuff lying around the pool - well dont do what you dont do at home.
Just be vigilant please.
Walking up that road to Centro Plaza, please take care.
Dont walk with your bag the side of the road.
Dont take a bag if you really dont need.
Keep keys separate.
Even try keep Cash & Cards Separate incase someone just dips in to grab a purse.
Go to Cash Points when the banks are open is best - incase of any problems.
Dont leave anything in your car. We know of people that have had every suitcase and bag taken out of it.
This stuff is going on all over and I still feel safer here than in London, but its a small area so you hear of everything.
When people come on holiday, they relax, leave windows open, dont lock doors, leave stuff lying around the pool - well dont do what you dont do at home.
Just be vigilant please.
2 Bed Apartment Available Long Term Rent Calahonda
I know this isnt Nueva Andalucia but Im helping out a friend who has a ....
2 Bed, 1 Bath, duplex apartment for long term let in Calahonda.
Available from end August.
Very reasonable rent.
For more info ring Les 657 672 120
2 Bed, 1 Bath, duplex apartment for long term let in Calahonda.
Available from end August.
Very reasonable rent.
For more info ring Les 657 672 120
Our Spanish Evening in Marbella
Im feeling rather tired this morning and a little hung over. What a wonderful night we had last night with 2 sets of parents from the school.
Its funny sometimes when invited out by some people we are expected or asked to get a babysitter however when its our Spanish Friends it wouldnt even cross our minds or theirs - kids are part of it and expected to be there.
We got there at 8, I thought we would eat around 9.30 - 10 and then get kids home for about 12ish. But no, this was proper "Spanish Fashion". We had somethings to pick at around 9.30 to 10pm and then we finally sat down to eat around 11.30pm. It was perfect as it was lovely and cool. I can completely understand why people eat and go out so late. I was worried about over eating to begin with incase what I was eating was just the starter and main course was on its way....but luckily enough this was the main course. I have never eaten so late before, but because we picked at so much leading up to it - we didnt stuff ourselves like we normally would.
The kids played and ran around the garden, there were a few arguments as the kids dont normally play together in school. But I think this is great to get kids to mix a little just like us adults. It also helps that although not fluent I do speak Spanish and therefore its easier. If we didnt speak a word of Spanish then we wouldnt have been invited cause it would just be too difficult to communicate - then we would be missing out on such great evenings with such lovely people.
We left around 2ish this morning and our little girl fell asleep in the car and slept all the way through till 1030 this morning - not enough sleep for her but she did grab a little siesta yesterday and will have one today....but its summer and this is whats summers about.
Looking forward to round 2 on Wednesday.
Its funny sometimes when invited out by some people we are expected or asked to get a babysitter however when its our Spanish Friends it wouldnt even cross our minds or theirs - kids are part of it and expected to be there.
We got there at 8, I thought we would eat around 9.30 - 10 and then get kids home for about 12ish. But no, this was proper "Spanish Fashion". We had somethings to pick at around 9.30 to 10pm and then we finally sat down to eat around 11.30pm. It was perfect as it was lovely and cool. I can completely understand why people eat and go out so late. I was worried about over eating to begin with incase what I was eating was just the starter and main course was on its way....but luckily enough this was the main course. I have never eaten so late before, but because we picked at so much leading up to it - we didnt stuff ourselves like we normally would.
The kids played and ran around the garden, there were a few arguments as the kids dont normally play together in school. But I think this is great to get kids to mix a little just like us adults. It also helps that although not fluent I do speak Spanish and therefore its easier. If we didnt speak a word of Spanish then we wouldnt have been invited cause it would just be too difficult to communicate - then we would be missing out on such great evenings with such lovely people.
We left around 2ish this morning and our little girl fell asleep in the car and slept all the way through till 1030 this morning - not enough sleep for her but she did grab a little siesta yesterday and will have one today....but its summer and this is whats summers about.
Looking forward to round 2 on Wednesday.
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Discount Vouchers for Marbella
Last year when we went to Australia, everywhere we went were "Dockets". Dockets were little discount vouchers for shops, restaurants, bars, clothing everything. Buy 1 coffee get 1 free etc etc. They were brilliant and I recall saving about 300 dollars that holiday.
We would go out and get 1 meal free and it made us try new restaurants. In every shopping mall you would go to the Customer Service Desk and pick up a booklet full of dockets. It became a bit of a game in the end to see how much we could save in 1 day. I brought the booklets back home with me and knew that something like that would work here. We thought about it but we just didnt have the time to do it.
There had been the "Discounts Cards" or the "VIP Cards" but the consumer had to spend money to buy the card in order to save like 5% or 10%. These days - the consumer should not have to buy these cards. These are old hat now, they were in the UK years ago - but then everythings a little behind here.
My main concern was people taking vouchers into shops and staff not accepting them here - as this has happened to me on a number of occassions before regarding discount vouchers I have found or cut out of the paper.
But finally there is a website with discount vouchers that you print off. It covers From Marbella to Gibraltar only at the moment but if the vouchers work then there are some good deals rather than the stingy 5% off.
Certain Terrasanas have 2 for 1 on Wraps or 2 for 1 on Juices, Free Bottle of Wine. These are thing the types of things that will bring people to your business!
So go to www.moneyoffvouchers.net and find your vouchers - top up on ink cartridges too!!!
We would go out and get 1 meal free and it made us try new restaurants. In every shopping mall you would go to the Customer Service Desk and pick up a booklet full of dockets. It became a bit of a game in the end to see how much we could save in 1 day. I brought the booklets back home with me and knew that something like that would work here. We thought about it but we just didnt have the time to do it.
There had been the "Discounts Cards" or the "VIP Cards" but the consumer had to spend money to buy the card in order to save like 5% or 10%. These days - the consumer should not have to buy these cards. These are old hat now, they were in the UK years ago - but then everythings a little behind here.
My main concern was people taking vouchers into shops and staff not accepting them here - as this has happened to me on a number of occassions before regarding discount vouchers I have found or cut out of the paper.
But finally there is a website with discount vouchers that you print off. It covers From Marbella to Gibraltar only at the moment but if the vouchers work then there are some good deals rather than the stingy 5% off.
Certain Terrasanas have 2 for 1 on Wraps or 2 for 1 on Juices, Free Bottle of Wine. These are thing the types of things that will bring people to your business!
So go to www.moneyoffvouchers.net and find your vouchers - top up on ink cartridges too!!!
Anjool Malde Marbella
Just read on Sky News about a guy called Anjool Malde who was just 24 years old and threw himself of an 8th floor of a restaruant in London called balcony Coq DÁrgent.
Anjool Malde lived in London and also in Marbella. I was just reading his twitter and hes just recently been in Puerto Banus & Marbella. Its all abit strange and weird reading what his been up to so close to home and now he is dead.
He was very upset about Michael Jackson Dying and feared that he could loose his job, but surely thats not a reason to commit suicide! People are loosing their jobs everyday!
You can read the whole article on Sky News Here
Very sad news
Anjool Malde lived in London and also in Marbella. I was just reading his twitter and hes just recently been in Puerto Banus & Marbella. Its all abit strange and weird reading what his been up to so close to home and now he is dead.
He was very upset about Michael Jackson Dying and feared that he could loose his job, but surely thats not a reason to commit suicide! People are loosing their jobs everyday!
You can read the whole article on Sky News Here
Very sad news
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Bike Hire in Marbella
A friend of mine wants to hire bikes with the tag along thing for kids. Does anyone know where you can hire these from.
Please email me or leave a comment.
Thanks
JO
Please email me or leave a comment.
Thanks
JO
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Open Cor Puerto Banus
Yesterday whilst driving I noticed a new Open Cor Supermarket being built or maybe its already open at the Entrance of Puerto Banus next to Armani Casa in Playas Del Duque.
Its incredible that they have 4 Shops now within such a small area. On one hand it seems crazy , it cant be cheap rent in this spot but on the other they are making themselves the Local Corner Shop. Great for people in Playas Del Duque and owners of Holiday Apartments there - its great to advertise that a supermarket is within 1 minute walk.
Its incredible that they have 4 Shops now within such a small area. On one hand it seems crazy , it cant be cheap rent in this spot but on the other they are making themselves the Local Corner Shop. Great for people in Playas Del Duque and owners of Holiday Apartments there - its great to advertise that a supermarket is within 1 minute walk.
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