Ranches Ladies Newsletter
Good morning Ranches Ladies!
Signing Off February With Gratitude And Joy!
This week, we make the most of February’s final days, filling them with joy, connection, and unforgettable moments! From cherished gatherings to meaningful conversations, every experience added to a month well spent. As we say goodbye to February, we welcome March with excitement and fresh opportunities ahead!
In Loving Memory of Jacquie Hunter Holt
It is with great sadness and deep regret Ranches Ladies has to announce that Jacquie Hunter Holt sadly passed away in the UK in December 2024.
Jacquie was a long time member of the group having lived in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai during her time of living and working in the Emirates. She was part of the early foundation of the Arabian Ranches Ladies Group which is now known as Ranches Ladies.
Jacquie was a committee member of the founding group in its early years and was acknowledged to have outstanding organisational skills which became evident when she organised their First Bazaar.
We sincerely pass on our deepest condolences to her family and friends and it is with particular sadness we are aware she leaves behind her young daughter Sophia.
RIP Jacquie Hunter Holt.
Ramadan Is Just Around The Corner
Ramadan is more than just a month of fasting. It is a time of patience, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. It teaches us discipline, self-control, and compassion for those less fortunate. Through fasting, prayer, and reflection, we strengthen our connection with Allah while cleansing both body and soul. It is a time of community, generosity, and spiritual growth, reminding us that true fulfillment comes not from what we consume, but from what we give and how we grow.
Ramadan Kareem!
Hag Al Laila Is A Cherished Emirati Tradition
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, communities across the UAE come together to celebrate
Hag-Al- Laila, a beautiful tradition that embodies generosity, joy, and cultural heritage.
Taking place mid-Sha’ban, this time-honored custom is a way for families and neighbours to share blessings and strengthen community bonds.
Hag al Laila is especially exciting for children, who dress in colourful traditional attire and go door to door, singing cheerful songs in return for goodie bags filled with sweets, nuts, and treats. It mirrors the spirit of giving that defines Ramadan, teaching the younger generation the values of kindness and sharing.
Through this celebration, Emirati families pass down their heritage, ensuring that the joy of Hag Al Laila continues for generations to come. Whether you’re participating for the first time or reliving childhood memories, this tradition is a beautiful reminder of the warmth and togetherness that define the UAE’s rich culture. Let’s embrace the spirit of giving and celebrate Hag Al Laila with joy and gratitude!
The Art of Living Workshop
Tomorrow, on Tuesday, 25th February 2025 Ranches Ladies welcomes Christine Markey of The Art of Living with a presentation of the Power of Colour in interior design.
Tuesday, 25th February 2025 at 10.30am. Members kindly respond on membership WhatsApp poll or Email: ranches.ladies@gmail.com
We Want To Hear From You
This is your newsletter and we need your contributions!
What can you share? Maybe something from your RL Circles activities, your travels, favourite place to visit, or how you and your family celebrate cultural or religious festivals? Please send short articles (as a guide 200 to 400 words max), with photos if possible, to ranches.ladies@gmail.com or the RL Web Updates Group.
Please send any articles or items for the newsletter to ranches.ladies@gmail.com (by Friday midday for inclusion in the next Monday’s newsletter.)
An Afternoon With the Racing Camels
Recently myself, Carole Binbrek and Jan Hennessey, 2 friends from Ranches Ladies, took a trip into the desert to see the racing camels going for exercise. This is something we used to do when I lived here in Dubai back in the day. It was wonderful to be back with my good friends again and the drive into the desert is always one of my favourite things to do. The camels are taken out for exercise every afternoon and it’s an incredible sight to see so many camel trains coming down the side of the road to get to the track.
These beautiful creatures are the crème de la crème of the camel world and some of them are worth a lot of money. They all wear blankets in the pattern of their stable and look very majestic in their trains.
The stable lads give a friendly wave and occasionally take our photo while we’re taking theirs. The heat and the dust leave you in no doubt as to where in the world you are, and it’s a highly unusual and extremely enjoyable way to spend a few hours.
Sue Fulham , Feb 2025
The Trip Circle
Don’t miss the trip to The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday 26th February. Click ‘Yes’ on poll in RL members WhatsApp group as soon as possible. Limited places.
Tuesday Coffee Morning
Our Ranches Ladies weekly Tuesday coffee morning on 18th February 2025 with all enjoying one another’s company mixing and mingling along with a number of new members who joined us on that day.
The Ranches ladies’ Tuesday coffee mornings takes place at Larte, Studio One Hotel, from 10:30am to 12pm and will continue during Ramadan. Ladies of all ages, wherever you live, are welcome to join us.
The Quilting Circle
The Quilting Circle enjoyed a wonderful morning, with members proudly showcasing their progress from recent classes and the ‘Block of the Month’ project. We were delighted to welcome Janine Ibbini from the Abu Dhabi Quilting Guild as our guest speaker, who shared her inspiring quilting journey and experiences with us. A big thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making it such a special gathering
Ranches Ladies Quilters are a group within Ranches Ladies who love creating with quilting, sewing and embroidery. They meet around once a month. For more information, contact thequilterscircle@gmail.com
The Hiking Circle
Our recent hike in Wadi Kub was a fantastic experience, filled with adventure and breathtaking views. Hiking isn’t just about the distance covered—it’s about the moments experienced along the way.
Did you know spending just 20 minutes in nature can significantly reduce stress and boost well-being? We look forward to more outdoor adventures ahead, so stay tuned for upcoming hikes or Join the team now!
Design Assistance For RL
The Ranches Ladies media team, is working towards bringing a more cohesive and visually engaging look to our newsletter. The goal is to create a design that feels polished, consistent, and easy to navigate while preserving the warmth and essence of our community. This small refresh aims to enhance the experience for everyone, and I’m here to help with any design needs along the way.
The Literary Lunch Circle
We had a great discussion about ‘The Murmur of Bees’ by Sofia Segovia. We all enjoyed the story about a Mexican family and the mysterious child they adopted, set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution and the devastating influenza of 1918. We appreciated the writing and great translation into English. The book for March is ‘A Terrible Kindness’ by Jo Browning-Wroe.
Join us as we read yet another book and discuss it over a nice lunch!
Aqua Fit Circle
The Aqua Fit Circle started this month with a splash. Having fun with friends while getting fit.
Wednesdays and Fridays 9.30 to 10.30am. Come join us if you are interested in our circle.
The Mosaics Circle
We had a lovely morning in the garden making our beautiful mosaics. Come join us and make some wonderful pieces. Wednesdays, 10.30am to 1pm.
The Art Circle
Ladies in the Art circle are working on varied themes making some beautiful paintings. If you like painting, do come and join our Circle. The Art Circle Art circle, led by Rajul, on meet on Mondays (Beginners) and Thursdays (Regular students) from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm in Arabian Ranches 1.
The Decoupage Circle
This week, our ladies in the Decoupage circle created and decorated their unique Ramadan pieces using Jesmonite and decoupage. From stunning trays to elegant candle holders, each piece was a unique reflection of their artistic touch.
We’re excited to continue our workshops throughout Ramadan, offering a space to relax, create, and connect. Sessions will be held every Thursday from 10 am to 12:30 pm, where we will craft more beautiful pieces to celebrate the season.
The Poetry Circle
The Poetry Circle, which takes place once a month at Carole’s place, is always full of cheerful moments. Come join us as we discuss poems related to time and enjoy a pleasant evening.
New Circle For Public Speaking Skills
A fine opportunity to overcome your fears and express yourself to engage any type of audience. Hurry up and sign up for this new Public Speaking Circle. The first “Taster Session” of the Public Speaking Circle will take place next on Thursday Feb. 27 at 11:00. See Poster for more details.
The Walking Circle
Walking is a fantastic way to stay fit, meet new friends, and enjoy the beautiful weather during the cooler months. Start the New Year with our Walking Circles!
- Mondays at 7 AM – Arabian Ranches 1
- Wednesdays at 9 AM – Marina Mall
Each walk lasts about an hour and wraps up with tea or coffee nearby. We’d love to see you out in the fresh air! For more details, contact Josephine or Nicki at circles.ranches.ladies@gmail.com.
Don’t Miss Out!
RL Circles Calendar
For more activities, see our website for the Circles Calendar: https://arabianranchesladies.com/circles-calendar/
Email circles.ranches.ladies@gmail.com if you would like to join any circle. If you are a member but not yet on the members only Ranches Ladies Whatsapp group please email ranches.ladies@gmail.com
Our website is http://www.arabianranchesladies.com and you can find us on FB and Instagram as Ranches Ladies
Your Suggestions Matter
Do you have any ideas for Ranches Ladies activities and are you willing to get involved?
Would you like you start a new circle? Or would you just like to give some feedback?
We would love to hear from you! Contact us on ranches.ladies@gmail.com or circles.ranches.ladies@gmail.com
Discounts
Your RL membership card is your passport to great discounts from our dozens of discount partners. Check the discounts section on the website for a full list (use the drop down category list), including recently added new discounts.
Present your membership card to avail the discount. For any discount related enquiries or suggestions please email discounts.rl@gmail.com
Ranches Ladies 