Kree's Blog

Private Tutor

2010-09-02T02:18:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for a private tutor?

Your worries are over...you have come to the right place.

I am recruiting students for 1 to 1 or small group tutoring.

A little about me:

I was born in South Africa where I taught for 13 years before immigrating to New Zealand in 2002. I am a passionate, self-motivated and dedicated NZ registered Teacher with 21 years of full-time exemplary classroom practice. This year I have decided to explore other teaching options and have been working at two local schools as a classroom release teacher. I am passionate and confident in using today’s technological tools to teach in new and exciting ways. Ideally, if I could afford it, I would be volunteering my services, however, I am unable to do this at stage in my life.

Strengths in: ICT, Behaviour-Management, New Zealand Curriculum, Literacy, Numeracy, Special Needs, ESOL...

Interests:

Community Service Volunteer for IHC (People with Intellectual Disabilties), Information and Communication Technologies, Web 2.0, Networking, Blogging, Photography, Travel, Cooking, Gardening, Sustaining our Environment (Reduce, Re-use, Recycle

Vision:

To be the change I wish to see in the world. (Mahatma Gandhi)

If there is ANYTHING you want to learn to do, get in touch. I promise to help you achieve your dreams.

Yours truly,

Mrs Kree Raman

09/2967094

0272967094

kree4sai@gmail.com

Room 2 Stars practising Waka Waka

2010-08-16T23:51:00.001-07:00

Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)"
Oooeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeehh
You're a good soldier
Choosing your battles
Pick yourself up
And dust yourself off
Get back in the saddle
You're on the front line
Everyone's watching
You know it's serious
We are getting closer
This isn't over
The pressure is on
You feel it
But you got it all
Believe it
When you fall get up, oh oh
If you fall get up, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Cuz this is Africa
Tsamina mina, eh eh
Waka waka, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa
Listen to your God
This is our motto
Your time to shine
Don't wait in line
Y vamos por todo
People are raising
Their expectations
Go on and feed them
This is your moment
No hesitations
Today's your day
I feel it
You paved the way
Believe it
If you get down get up, oh oh
When you get down get up, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa
Tsamina mina, eh eh
Waka waka, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa a a
Tsamina mina, eh eh
Waka waka, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa
[Zolani sings]
Ame la mejole biggi biggi mubbo wa ET to Zet
Asi tsu zala makyuni biggi biggi mubbo from East to West
Asi waga waga ma eh eh waga waga ma eh eh
Tendency suna tsibuye cuz this is africa...
[Voice:]
Tsamina mina, Anawa a a
Tsamina mina
Tsamina mina, Anawa a a
Tsamina mina, eh eh
Waka waka, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa a a
Tsamina mina, eh eh
Waka waka, eh eh
Tsamina mina zangalewa
This time for Africa
[2x]
Django eh eh [2x]
Tsamina mina zangalewa
Anawa a a
[2x]
This time for Africa
[2x]
We're all Africa

Prayer for Denisha Chetty

2010-08-15T23:55:00.001-07:00

Sai Ram Blessed family and friends

Please join me in prayer for Denisha Chetty, 15 year-old daughter of Logan and Mala, Auckland, New Zealand.

Dear God, we join our prayers with the prayers of all who love Denisha Chetty.

Bless this family with renewed comfort and courage.

Strengthen in them the healing powers You have placed within us all.

Guide the hands and hearts of those who are entrusted with Denisha's care.

May the knowledge of Your love and ours give added hope to them and to their dear ones.

May they find even greater strength because our prayers are linked with theirs.

Throughout Denisha's illness may the family find consolation in Your healing presence, Lord.

Oh Lord of miracles, show your mercy as you cure Denisha's illness.

May these special people find lasting health and happiness so they may continue to serve Thee.

Dear God of goodness and love, please hear our prayers for Denisha.

We ask this through our Beloved Sathya Sai Baba Bhagawan, who heals those who believe.

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti

Food for the Soul

2010-08-15T20:41:00.001-07:00

Hey there

I have been reading the Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayerss, by Swami Paramananda, every day for the past 10 years.

If you can get your hands on a hard-copy, you'll never regret it.

In my opinion, it is the best gift you can give to anyone you care about.

Here is an online version which I saved to Kree's Blog

Or you can click on the link below :

Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers

There are 407 pages in this book so it might take a few seconds to download depending on your broadband speed.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Here is today's reading as it appears in the book:

August Sixteenth

Salient thought for the day

God has given us life that we may express joyousness of heart.

Lines to memorize

My soul is happy with an inexpressible joy

Since I saw His smiling face turned toward me.

I can never forget that radiant smile;

Where'er I go it haunts me by day and it

haunts me by night.

When in grim despair of life, it brightens

my path with hope and love.

Lesson

No man can attain his goal without practising the higher principles of life.

No man can be truly happy who is selfish.

What possible use is outer light if there is darkness within?

Happiness is a quality of the soul.

It enters the soul which has tasted God-consciousness.

God is ever cheerful.

Life is given us to work out our freedom and lasting happiness.

Prayer

O Thou Giver of all joy, may I not be unworthy of Thy gifts,

But may I radiate happiness and cheer in every hour of my daily life.

Help me to realize that when I am sad, it is because I am separated from Thee.

All my sadness and sorrow will vanish when I seek thee with open heart.

Swami Paramananda Page 255 Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers

(Re-typed by Kree...please pardon any errors)

IHC Volunteers Make a Difference

2010-06-20T03:44:00.001-07:00

Volunteer Awareness Week 21 June 2010

2010-06-19T03:58:00.001-07:00

I have been a volunteer for IHC since December 2009. My friend's name is Joy and she lives nearby. We have been enjoying everyday activities together such as going out to coffee, shopping, visiting the beaches, the movies, library, restaurants etc. This term Joy is registered at the Manukau Institute of Technology's FreeB Computer classes. We attend classes every Saturday morning at the Selwyn Arcade in Papakura. Through keyboarding, Joy is learning to type, read and write. Since meeting Joy my confidence of driving in Auckland has improved as it is so much nicer to have a friend to run around with.

IHC is always in need of volunteers. If you can spend one or two hours a week in selfless service, while doing the things you love, please get in touch.

Volunteers make a difference!

Video - Take a Moment to Connect

*MATARIKI** Happy Maori New Year - New Moon 14 June 2010

2010-06-14T17:11:00.001-07:00

Ma te wheturangi o Matariki,

e tiaki mai,

e manaaki mai i a koe,

i a kotou ranei,

mo te tau e taka mai ana.

May the gentle light of Matariki guide and inspire you all this year.

Happy FIFA World Cup 2010

2010-06-11T02:30:00.001-07:00

I am torn between two of my favourite countries i.e. South Africa & New Zealand.
Viva Bafana Bafana & the All Whites :)))

Dream BIG! Reach for the Stars…

2010-06-02T03:01:00.001-07:00

“Let us hope for big things, not only what is good for us, but what is good for the whole.

Impossible hopes – let us even dare to hope for those.

What if the world calls us dreamers!

Let us dream those dreams which will lift us from doubt, fear, selfishness and self-seeking.

Let us soar high with the wings of hope and dream into the transcendental.”

[Swami Paramananda]

The Most Efficient System for Day to Day Relief Teaching

2010-05-31T01:56:00.001-07:00

Being an EDForce Relief Teacher means you …

Can access more work other than just using the telephone.
Can accept work quickly and easily on your mobile phone, or the website..
Can accept work at any time.
Can access work in any region throughout New Zealand.
Will receive instant text message and email notifications when you have been 'successful' or 'unsuccessful' accepting vacancies.
Will get priority over vacancies when learning institutes put you on their 'Preferred List'.
Don't have to wait for phone calls for work.
Don't have to answer several phone calls for work.
Don't have to feel pressured into accepting work over the phone.
Can plan your days, weeks and months ahead.
Can choose where your want to teach.
Can choose when you want to teach.
Can choose the age levels of students you want to teach.
Can view all your upcoming and completed vacancies on the website.
Can receive instant email notifications for part time, fixed term and permanent positions. READ MORE>>>

Poem for my Teacher by Kaiya

2010-05-24T00:24:00.001-07:00

I love the way you smile

The way you look at me

When you look at me I see

A sparkle in your eye

I love the way you smile

The way you cherish me

In all different ways

And I know you'll always be there

Forever and ever in my life

A teacher that never forgets me

And never leaves my soul behind

I know you'll always love me

Kaiya Tahitahi

Year 6

Kelvin Road School, 2010

Volunteer 4 IHC

2010-05-15T04:46:00.001-07:00

Room 2 Stars at the Pool

2010-05-10T15:17:00.001-07:00

Anzac Day 25 April 2010

2010-04-23T02:44:00.001-07:00

April 25th is the anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) at Gallipoli in 1915. Over 7000 New Zealand soldiers were wounded at Gallipoli and 2721 were killed. The Australian army also suffered heavy casualties: 26,111 were injured and 8,141 were killed.
The first Anzac Day took place on 25 April 1916. As time went on, the ceremony of remembrance was extended to the soldiers of the Second World War. It now honours all New Zealanders and Australians who have served in a military campaign. Source: TKI Hot Topics

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Anzac Cookies

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Baking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain flour
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup dessicated coconut
125g butter
1 to 2 tbsp golden syrup
2 tbsp water
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp vanilla essence

Preparation:

Preheat oven at 180°C.

[Where a variable quantity is indicated, this depends on the type of consistency required.]

Combine the oats, flour, sugar and coconut in a bowl. Cut the butter into small pieces, place with the golden syrup and vanilla essence in a saucepan and melt together, stirring. Then remove from heat.

Combine bicarbonate of soda with 2 tablespoons of water and blend in with the syrup and butter mixture. Gradually mix in with dry ingredients, until you have a consistent texture,, and drop teaspoons of the mixture on a greased oven tray or tray lined with oven paper.

Bake in the center of the oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let cool….then enjoy with a cup of tea!

March/April Updates

2010-04-21T16:21:00.001-07:00

Twentieth Memorial - Shantal Govender (28 Aug 1982 – 1 Mar 1990)

1^st March 2010 was the 20^th memorial of our beloved niece Shantal Yugeshini Govender who passed away at the age of seven. Shantal passed away in 1990 from an un-diagnosed illness just a month after our Aiyah Meenatchi passed away. This year 28 August 2010 Shantal would have turned 28 years old. Sadly in that same year Big-Uppa passed away a day after Shantal’s birthday on 29 August 1990. We cannot imagine what fun you all are having up there in heaven. Shantal was the daughter of Tom & Julie Govender, sister of Prabashini & Sarveshini, grand-daughter of Big-Amma (Sundrum Raman Thaver) and Big-Uppa (the late Johnnie Raman Thaver) and niece of Les, Kree & Cindy. Shantal and her twin brother Daniel, were born pre-maturely (7 months) on 28 August 1982. At 6am, after delivering the baby boy (later named Daniel), the gynae went off unaware that Julie was having twins. Also to Julie’s surprise, the second baby, Shantal was born at 6:10am delivered by the midwife. On hearing about the unexpected twin births, Big-Uppa and Big-Amma excitedly rushed off to Clairwood to buy prem-baby clothes only to later hear that Daniel had passed away within a few hours, around 9:30am. Shantal, weighing around 1kg, spent some time in hospital before being allowed home. Julie was the first in the Thaver family to give birth to twins. From the start, there was something special and radiant about Shantal and only after she had passed away, did we realise how much like an angel she was. She had a distinct black ‘beauty spot’ in her left eye and a smile as bright as the sun. Shantal, we are remembering the love, smiles and treasured memories you left behind which will live in our hearts...till we meet again. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti...

But for the Grace of GOD - New Zealand Update

6^th March 2010 – It is 8years since our arrival in New Zealand. In February 2001, when Kanthan suggested immigrating to New Zealand, my cunning answer was “If you can quit smoking, we’ll move to New Zealand!” Kanthan’s desire to start a new life here was so great that he set a deadline of 18^th March 2001 as the day he would have his last cigarette. To this date he has kept to his word...so here we are... our 8^th year in Auckland, peaceful, content, no regrets! Aah but this land is beautiful!

31^st March 2010 - 19^th Wedding Anniversary of Kanthan and Kree. Through good times and bad, happy and sad, we will stick by each other and always be glad.

2^nd April 2010 – Thanusha turns 18!! Eighteen is regarded as an ‘adult’ in NZ – free to do as they please...(you wish!!). Thanusha celebrated her 18th birthday party with her friends at home. They partied till 3am in our backyard and had a sleep-over. Happy birthday Darling.

6^th April 2010 – Kaveshan turns 15!! This is the legal age to start work and earn his own income. All the best with your job-hunting son.

Yours truly,

Kree Raman Vandayar

Thaipusam Kavadi at Auckland Sri Ganesh Temple, Papakura

2010-02-01T23:46:00.001-08:00

Inaugural Speech, President Nelson Mandela

2010-01-27T17:24:00.001-08:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.

We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?

Actually who are you not to be? You are a child of God.

Your playing small, doesn’t serve the world.

There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.

We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

Cinnamon and Honey

2010-01-26T23:54:00.001-08:00

Here is an interesting and informative email I received from my Aunt Devi-Unnie about the wonders of honey and cinnamon. I have not yet tried and tested them all but am going to start asap. Use at your own risk but do let me know if you have any success. Wishing you good health and happiness in 2010.

| Honey is the only food on the planet that will not spoil or rot. It will do what some call turning to sugar. In reality honey is always honey. However, when left in a cool dark place for a long time it will do what I rather call "crystallizing".   When this happens I loosen the lid, boil some water, and sit the honey container in the hot water, turn off the heat and let it liquefy. It is then as good as it ever was. Never boil honey or put it in a microwave. To do so will kill the enzymes in the honey.

| Cinnamon and Honey
| Bet the drug companies won't like this one getting around. Facts on Honey and Cinnamon: It is found that a mixture of honey and Cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

| Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients.   Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada , in its issue dated 17 January,1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

| HEART DISEASES:
| Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also, those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack.. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada , various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and veins.

| ARTHRITIS:
| Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated, practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

| BLADDER INFECTIONS:
| Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

| CHOLESTEROL:
| Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours.   As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information received in the said Journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

| COLDS:
| Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

| UPSET STOMACH:
| Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

| GAS:
| According to the studies done in India and Japan, it is revealed that if Honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

| IMMUNE SYSTEM:
| Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial andviral diseases.

| INDIGESTION:
| Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

| INFLUENZA:
| A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ' Ingredient' which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

| LONGEVITY:
| Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder, and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increase and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old..

| PIMPLES:
| Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

| SKIN INFECTIONS:
| Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

| WEIGHT LOSS:
| Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach, and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

| CANCER:
| Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

| FATIGUE:
| Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

| BAD BREATH:
| People of South America, first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

| HEARING LOSS:
| Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing. Remember when we were kids? We had toast with real butter and cinnamon sprinkled on it!

Kree’s Reunion with Staff & Students from Kelvin Road School

2010-01-26T00:26:00.001-08:00

Mrs Raman met Shar at Otara Market on Saturday 11 December.

On 16 December, the day Kelvin Road School closed, Kaiya and Te Kawehau (with their mums) met Mrs Raman for coffee in Papakura Town.

Room 8 made a beautiful frame for Mrs Raman with personalised signatures. Thanks Mr. O’Brien for helping out.

Mrs Raman gets together with Colleagues at the Coffee Club, Manukau, 22 Dec 2009

Mr. Naude, Mrs Smith, Miss White, Whaea Elaine, Mrs Harris, Mrs Weir

Mrs Weir with Vicky’s gorgeous baby Sabastian

Mrs Raman meets colleagues for lunch at Papakura’s new Indian Restaurant, MASALA on Broadway Street on 14 Jan 2010

Mrs Raman’s yummy & spicy vegetarian vindaloo lunch + drink. Masala’s $10 Lunch special…….YuuuMmmmmmm

Duke in Kaveshan's bed

2010-01-25T23:05:00.000-08:00

Testing goblogger...

Sent using a Sony Ericsson mobile phone

National Standards

2009-12-02T06:28:00.001-08:00

National Standards Website

Professional Development

The first introductory National Standards webinar has been held and is available now online as a recording.

The following link will take you to a macromedia breeze streaming presentation: http://www.v6.breezeserver.co.nz/p58427400/

You can download the Powerpoint used in this presentation:

National Standards Powerpoint presentation (PowerPoint, 3 MB)

Happy Diwali 2009

2009-10-16T02:08:00.001-07:00

Wishing all a blessed Diwali - love, light and laughter always.

Langada News

2009-10-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

See the Link List alongside for Langada News >>>
I wish to congratulate my cousins Vasu & Pam for the launch of an informative and enlightening newsletter. It is an awesome idea which has brought back some beautiful memories as well as feelings of nostalgia. I really loved it. Langada News is a wonderful diary or journal for us (The Thaver Family), our children and our children's children.

Letter from the editor: 8 October 2009
Good Morning to all,
Attached is the 1st edition of the Langada News. It’s a paper by us, for us, the descendents of Maduray & Minatchi Thaver. I humbly ask that you all be proactive in its future success and sustainability, and that each one of us contribute in some small way, so that it may bring a little nostalgia, a little smile, a little appreciation, a little thankfulness that we come from such a grand dynasty. Granted, everyone has their faults, and our family is no different, but we should rather appreciate the good things about our family and be thankful about that. Our parents, grandparents and pioneering fore-fathers endured a lot of hardships, turmoil and pain so that we may be successful and prosperous. Our parents have fostered unity in all of us, and we have to feed that unity they have fostered by our love for each other, by being open and honest with each other, and learning from the good and the bad from our heritage. Please send your comments to me on this e-mail or my private e-mail at vasudevan.devar@gmail.com or Pam Jagesar at pamjagesar@live.com. To the family in KZN, please print and distribute to the rest of the family. We need constructive comments so that we may provide a better service in future. Your proactive contribution is vital to the continued success of this initiative.

Regards
Vasudevan Devar

52 Character Building Thoughts for Children

2009-09-18T21:14:00.001-07:00

By Leah Davies, M.Ed.

The following quotes may be used in a variety of ways by both teachers and counsellors. One idea is for a thought to be posted, read, and discussed at the beginning of each week. It could then be read daily with the students. At the end of the week ask them what they learned or how the thought applied to their lives or activities during the week. Have the children give written or oral examples, or have them draw a picture to illustrate their ideas.

How I look is not as important as how I act.
I treat others the way I want them to treat me.
I am a good sport; I follow the rules, take turns and play fair.
It is okay to laugh at funny things, but not to laugh at others.
I do not gossip; if I cannot say anything helpful, I do not say anything at all.
When I am sad, I help myself feel better by thinking of things that are good in my life.
In order to have friends, I must act in a kind way.
I believe that I am someone who can do important things.
What I say and how I say it tells others the kind of person I am.
I appreciate my family, my teachers, and my school.
I treat everyone with respect.
When I listen, I show others that I care about them.
I am being a good citizen when I volunteer to help others.
I think for myself and make smart choices that are good for me.
Each day offers a new start to do my best.
I try to understand what my friends are feeling.
Everyone makes mistakes, so instead of getting angry with myself, I try to do better.
I do not give up; I keep trying until I can do my work.
Sharing with others makes me feel good and makes them feel good too.
I work out my problems without hurting myself or others.
I am being polite when I wait for my turn and say please and thank you.
When I smile at people, they usually smile back.
I encourage my friends to do their best.
My values guide me to do what is right.
I am honest; I do not cheat or steal.
When I am angry, I use self-control and do not hurt others.
I am being creative when I dance, draw, paint or write a poem or story.
I say, "No!" to things that could hurt my body like tobacco and alcohol.
When I do what I say I will do, I am being responsible.
I am grateful for what I have, so I share with others.
I try to learn something new each day.
When things do not go my way, I stop and think of what I can do to make them better.
I do not make fun of other children because I don't know what their life is like.
I feel successful when I do my best.
Everyone has good and bad feelings.
I take care of myself by eating healthy food, exercising and getting enough rest.
I am being punctual when I am on time and do not keep people waiting.
When I cooperate with others, I get more done.
I follow the rules and try to make my school a better place.
I like to get to know children who are different from me.
Since I tell the truth, my friends trust me.
I look for what is good in others and I say what I like about them.
I buy only what I need and I save my money.
When I use my time wisely, there is usually enough time to do what I want to do.
I think before I act; how I act affects how others treat me.
Using manners helps me keep my friends.
I have courage to stand up for children who are teased.
Before I do something, I ask myself, "Is it safe?"
I am me -- I do not try to be like someone else.
I care about living things on earth so I recycle and do not litter.
When I write down what I think and feel, I learn about myself.
I plan ahead and think about what I want to do when I grow up.

For more ideas, see our archived article, Encouraging Thoughts.

Teacher's Farewell Message

2009-09-12T02:20:00.000-07:00

11 September 2009
Dear Principal, Board of Trustees, Staff, Students & Parents of Kelvin Road School:
The day has finally arrived...my journey at Kelvin Road School has come to an end.
In my 20 years of teaching this has been only my 2nd school and I would be happy to have stayed here forever! However, there is another exciting challenge awaiting me, so I am off...following my heart. This feels right, like it did when I left South Africa 7 and a half years ago.
I can't THANK YOU all enough for your help and friendship throughout my stay at our cool school. I have learned heaps and Kelvin Road School will be forever engraved in my heart.
If I said or did anything to hurt or upset you, kindly forgive me. I hope that you will remember me with a smile :) All the best.
I am sure that my Cool Kids will continue with their awesome work and I know that they will keep in touch via Gmail, Twitter and Blogger. Remember your "Wish Upon a Star". You CAN achieve your goals and dreams if you work hard, and "Be the BEST that you can be!" Reach for the Stars!!

Love always,
Kree Raman Room 8 Teacher Mobile: 0272967094 Skype: kreeraman Twitter: kreescoolkids Youtube: kree12
Gmail: kree4sai@gmail.com Class Blog: http://mrsramanscoolkids.blogspot.com/

WorldSkills - New Zealand

2009-08-26T17:50:00.001-07:00

In the next two weeks a number of young New Zealanders are going to be competing at Calgary in an effort to be recognised as the best in the world at their work skills. There are youth from many different trades competing in their individual areas. Last international competition New Zealanders did the best they have ever done. If you would like to send a message of support the address is toolblacks09@yahoo.co.nz . If you would like to receive daily “official” video clips you can register at http://wsc2009.worldskills.tv/register/ .

www.worldskills.org.nz

WorldSkills New Zealand's mission is to challenge New Zealand to achieve world-class standards by demonstrating excellence through workplace skills competitions for young people.

This has been sent to you recognising that you have an interest in challenging young people to do well and then better. Have a great day.

Train Trip 17 August 2009

2009-08-17T17:17:00.001-07:00

Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers

2009-08-16T00:52:00.000-07:00

August Sixteenth
God has given us life that we may express joyousness of heart.

My soul is happy with an inexpressible joy since I saw His smiling face turned toward me. I can never forget that radiant smile; wherever I go it haunts me by day and it haunts me by night. When in grim despair of life, it brightens my path with hope and love.

No man can attain his goal without practising the higher principals of life. No man can be truly happy who is selfish. What possible use is outer light if there is darkness inside? Happiness is a quality of the soul. It enters the soul which has tasted God-consciousness. God is ever cheerful. Life is given us to work out our freedom and lasting happiness.

O Thou Giver of all joy, may I not be unworthy of Thy gifts,
But may I radiate happiness and cheer in every hour of my daily life.
Help me to realize that when I am sad, it is because I am separated from Thee. All my sadness and sorrow will vanish when I seek Thee with open heart.

Source:
Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers
Swami Paramananda
Page 255

Job of my Dreams

2009-08-16T00:26:00.000-07:00

Through the Grace of God, the power of Ekadashi and the practice of The Secret, I have been successful in getting the teaching job of my dreams. On Saturday 25th July, I had an interview at a state-of-the-art school, Mission Heights Primary situated at 103 Jeffs Road, Flatbush, Auckland.

This is the link to the TV 1 footage on Close Up which went on air on August 6th.

My resignation date is September 11th but I am still waiting for a teacher to be appointed for my position at Kelvin Road School.

A big THANK YOU to all who had faith in me getting this job, those who prayed for me and those who provided written, verbal or video recommendations. There are too many people to name but God bless you all.

Good things happen to those who pray.

Faith always,

Kree

STS-127 Answers Room 8's question from Space

2009-07-22T21:31:00.001-07:00

Mrs Raman is so proud of you'll Joseph, Shar, Te Kawehau and Taylah for taking our name into SPACE.

What an achievement for Room 8, Kelvin Road School and Mrs Raman.

It is wonderful to see that all our hard work has paid off.

I hope that you all will grow from strength to strength in your 'endeavours' - just like the name of the sts-127 space-shuttle.

Well done my Coolkids!

Proud teacher,

Mrs Kree Raman

Kree witnesses a gorgeous morning Sky - 20 July 2009

2009-07-20T02:53:00.001-07:00

At 7am, I opened my front-door to give salutations to the Sun but I saw the Moon instead, breath-taking! How strange - the Sun and Moon so close to each other? Is this normal?

Then as I was leaving home for school at 7:45am (running late today) I saw a gorgeous rainbow from my garage-door. What a lovely way to start Term 3 after a wonderful 2 week break?

Reach for the STARS!

Global Gateway Connection

2009-07-20T02:43:00.001-07:00

Coolkids showing off their E-pal letters which arrived all the way from Navrachana School, Gujarat, India.

We are looking forward to emailing our friends in India and working on projects together.

Thank you Navrachana School and Mrs Krishnammal for the beautiful letters we received in the post today.

Every task should be for the good of many...

2009-07-05T00:53:00.001-07:00

"I plead with them with all my might. But they would not leave their accustomed ways of darkness and of shadow, the enemies of life. Oh unhappy fate that leads the weary travellers from light to dark.

There is not a moment in your life when you cannot render service and set an example. Every one of us can bring something to this world everyday. We can sound a note that will resound rhythm and harmony. When we cultivate our inner sense of values, we cease to be fretful, we cease to complain and we always have something to give. If we give with wholeness of heart, we shall be able to remove mountains of obstacles and difficulties; and all our struggles which arise from our imperfections and which make our life so full of suffering, will vanish as night before the day. That is the higher ideal of life - oneness in faith, oneness in hope and oneness in cheer.

May the Infinite Being protect me from selfishness and narrowness of vision. May He enlarge my heart and expand my love until it embraces all His children. May I never be impatient or weary in his service, But may I feel at peace in my own heart and bring peace to other hearts."

From The Book of daily Thoughts and Prayers
By Swami Paramananda
Page: 209

Posted by Kree Raman Vandayar
Primary School Teacher, New Zealand
To foster World Peace...LOVE ALL, SERVE ALL
HELP EVER, HURT NEVER

Kree's Tribute to Michael Jackson (1958 - 2009)

2009-06-27T13:17:00.000-07:00

It was with great sadness on Friday the 26th June, in my school staffroom, that I learned of the passing away of my beloved pop-star, Michael Jackson. Michael passed away on June 25th at the age of 50 years, from an unexpected cardiac-related death.

Michael, you're gone too soon! There was and will be NO OTHER like YOU. You were superhuman, my angel, my GOD. You transcend death - you are IMMORTAL. Only the blessed ones of this lifetime were able to know you, love you and believe in you. What a loss to the rest of the world. Who cares about what people say or think? They did the same with Jesus Christ, Sathya Sai Baba and many Avatars of our world. I hope you never doubted the love of your true fans.

Michael, your death has left a hole in my heart, but I know that your music and your unselfish love for humanity will fill that hole and will heal me and all who mourn for you. I must admit, now that you have transcended into Spirit and Soul, I feel SO CLOSE to you.

Michael, please watch over our Earth...let your death cleanse the world of all hate, greed, wars, racism, poverty, crime, etc. May your love Heal the World and save our beautiful Earth. I am sure Heaven is now complete with you there Michael.

Michael, I shall love you for always, my SuperHero.

Your loyal fan,

Kree Raman Vandayar

9 years Vegetarian

2009-06-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

On 25th June 2009, I celebrated my 9th anniversary of being a vegetarian...all through the Grace of my beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. My Sai I pray that you will shower Your Grace to more people so that they may experience the bliss I do.

Staff Social - Ten Pin Bowling - Friday 5 June '09

2009-06-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

Player of the day: Mr. Derek Oakey - Congratulations!!

The sun on my way to school 3rd June '09

2009-06-08T00:40:00.001-07:00

Mobile Pics of the Sun on my way to school 2 June '09 at 7:38am

2009-06-08T00:35:00.001-07:00

Eulogy to a beloved Cat, Parsley - R.I.P

2009-06-07T04:11:00.001-07:00

"Our Precious Parsley"

by Nalini Manikkam (Whangarei, NZ)

You came into our lives in 2000 when I worked as a vet nurse in Glenfield, on the North Shore in Auckland. We wanted to adopt a cat and you needed a home because you became too territorial at your previous home. We believe our meeting was destined as you were born in 1997, the year we emigrated from South Africa to begin a new life in New Zealand.You were a three year old, female seal tortie Burmese. I helped at your desexing operation and did not realize what joy you were going to bring me over the next 7 years of my life. We did not change your name. Parsley suited you so much. Almost immediately you walked into our home and behaved as if you always belonged there and expected all the privileges of a family member!You slept on the bed from day one complete with your head on the pillow and your soft silky body stretched under the blanket.It was comforting to you to always touch us with any part of your body. Soon Chris and I were unable to sleep until we knew you were snuggled up next to us.You enjoyed sitting at the dining table too. Some mornings I would generously throw bread for the birds out of the window, however my generous act soon changed to a sinister one because you chose to hide in the long grass under the bushes and pounce on the poor unsuspecting birds! Well, it was a proud and funny moment when we caught sight of you chasing a Labrador with his tail between his legs. How dare he come into your territory!

When we were blessed to move into our own beautiful apartment in nearby Birkdale, we were amazed at how well the apartment decor blended with your unusual colours. It was as if the apartment was made to order for you Parsley! The two horses who grazed in the meadow behind the apartment tolerated you stalking them. I will never forget the sight of tiny you hiding in the long grass as the horses ate nearby. Who knows what you were planning ? One night you did not come home. We were sick with worry and unable to sleep. Then you walked in the next morning as if nothing had happened! We suspect you were accidentally locked in someone's garage in the apartment complex. Unfortunately, you were prone to allergies. Your nose would block up as the mucus hardened. You were so tolerant as the vets injected you with steroid shots every 2 months. Once when we left you in the care of neighbours, we returned to find them frantic - you would not come out from under the bed! When I got you out I found you scared and in a shocked state - both your nostrils were blocked. I unblocked them and cradled you in my arms until you relaxed.The next morning I took you to the vet before I went to work.

As the years went by, you continued to amuse and amaze us. You sat in the cupboard, where the onions were kept, and found the washing machine and dryer interesting. You enjoyed a game of sitting in the dryer with a look on your face that said I-own -the-dryer- now- dare -to-put-your -hand -in! I had an unusual way of de-stressing at the end of a tiring work day. You and I would play hide and seek which was fun in the 3 level apartment . I would run upstairs, stamping my feet loudly and disappear into a cupboard, then you would come after me, meowing loudly. How you enjoyed it when I suddenly leapt out! A few times you managed to hide as well. You always thought we should watch you instead of the television. even when we bought a flash new narrow tv with no place for you to sit. Another favourite place for you to sit was the computer monitor where you effectively blocked the ventilation system as you enjoyed trapping the heat in your soft, tiny body.

Then in 2006, my daughter Cheralee announced that she is having a baby. While she was pregnant , you excitedly and proudly presented her with a rat which you placed on the balcony. She gingerly removed the dead rat. At least that rat was dead. I was startled one night when there was a big noise in my bedroom. You were meowing loudly. Upon waking up, I fortunately placed my feet next to a live rat - or almost alive. After letting out an ear piercing scream, I realized I was alone in the house! My husband Chris was away on business. I took about 3 minutes to calm down ,and to plot what to do, while keeping my eye on the poor wriggling rat. You did the same! Eventually I used a long- handled broom and a short - handled dustpan to toss the rat out of the window. It took a while for me to fall off to sleep again.The next morning I found the dead rat under the window.

When baby Crispin was born, you decided to be an integral part of his life. You 'tested' out all his baby gear before he could use it - his baby gym, stroller, travel cot and pram.You were not impressed when we 'tested' one of Crispin's tiny singlets on you! You slept either next to the baby or by his legs and still claimed your place on Cheralee's lap. In fact, you insisted everyone cuddles you even more. When my son Clyden came to visit, he had to carry you and baby Crispin. You happily sat on his shoulders too! You had this beautiful quality of kissing us on our lips when we asked you for a kiss. You also ' talked' to us with long and short pitched meows.

Then in 2007,Chris and I moved to the scenic area of Whangarei Heads.What a trip that was with you tranquillised in your cage during the 3 hour trip. Then as you recovered from the drug , you slapped Chris and I on our cheeks in the middle of the night as we slept exhausted! You even bit our cheeks.The next morning you were fine. We forgave you and let you explore the new house. After a week , we let you outdoors. You enjoyed the wide open space and the overgrown garden. You stared quizzically at the cows in the meadow across the road. In our first week here, you caused us some stress by happily swallowing Chris's heart and blood pressure tablets! Chris just left them on the kitchen counter and turned to pick up his mug of coffee, when he turned back, he found you licking your lips and the tablets gone ! Luckily you recovered at the vets without any long term damage , except to our pockets. On winter nights you clamed your place in front of the fireplace and continually hassled Chris as he completed a 1000 piece puzzle.

By 2007 , you needed to go the vets more often and the use of steroids kept increasing. Still, you always recovered and continued to be a big part of our lives. In February 2007 , Cheralee and Crispin came to live with us. Unfortunately by this time you were mostly sick. You began losing weight , vomiting and was unable to eat.We took you to the vet yet again. They put you on a drip. This went on for 4 days, before we faced the fact that you are not 'living' and being Parsley anymore. What a sad night it was for me when we brought you home one last time. I held you close and would not let you go. We walked around outside the house in the dusk together - me cradling you in my arms showing you your favourite places one last time.That night you lay between Chris and myself on the bed - one last time. Nobody on that bed could sleep. You - because you were sick, us- because we were sad. I cried till there were no tears left.

The next morning Chris, Cheralee, Crispin, you and myself were at the vets for that final goodbye. I looked into your eyes, but 'you Parsley' was not there. It was as if you were already gone and now we just had to be brave enough to go through the mechanics of letting you go. We all kissed you and touched you as the vet injected you and your life ebbed away. I felt sad and bitter at the same time.At that time I was unable to feel thankful for the time we had with you. You were gone. I could not wait to get out of that room.Then started the long battle of living our lives without you in it. Now I feel thankful and privileged to have been part of your wonderful life Parsley. I love you. Rest in peace.

Copywrite

Birthday blessings for Arnold Chetty by Sheila 6 June 2009

2009-06-07T03:47:00.001-07:00

Kree observes Nirjali Ekadashi 3rd June - 4th June 2009

2009-06-03T13:08:00.000-07:00

I have had an amazing day on 3rd June, as I observed my first Nirjala Ekadashi, without taking food or water from last night till Thursday morning (4th June). I think it is a miracle that I survived this day on AIR and FAITH alone, not even medication! On a regular day if I skipped a meal I would have an intense headache. My husband Kanthan Vandayar also observed the fast and is overwhelmed that we were able to achieve this. My daughter Thanusha fasted from morning till 4pm and couldn't manage it, but at least she tried. In the evening we went to Papakura Ganesh Temple (4 Dent Place, Papakura) to give Thanks for our Faith and good fortune in this life.
I realised With FAITH, we can conquer anything!! Air + Faith = Life.
By reading this, I pray that you and your loved-ones be blessed to dream BIG and achieve your goals. GOD BLESS YOU :) now and always,
Kree Raman Vandayar

Read about the significance of Nirjali Ekadashi by Narottam Das:
http://www.h4all.org/nirjal_ekadashi.html

Extraordinary Sun Meditation - Monday, June 1st 2009

2009-06-01T04:31:00.000-07:00

I really want and need to observe the Nirjal Ekadashi fast on June 3rd.

I am going through a beautiful phase in my life now, I mean spiritually.... Imagine 24 hours of no food and no water! I think it will be proof that we can survive on Faith alone!

Often, my sign to observe a certain fast or perform a certain pooja is the fact that a few days before an auspicious event or religious festival, I start menstruating, thus preventing me from indulging in intimate desires of the body so that I can be 'clean' for the fast. This is how I know that I should observe Nirjal Ekadashi, and if I do, it will be God's Will and Strength.

I want to share with you an extraordianary meditation I had today, Monday 1st June 2009, which was a public holiday in New Zealand to celebrate The Queen's birth. This morning, while chanting the Hanuman Chalisa at my prayer altar, I felt the morning sun shining behind me through the window. Although my eyes were closed, I was overpowered by the light of the sun and changed my seating to face the sun. I had my back to the lamp (although I knew this was not acceptable) but the power of the sun drew me to it like a magnet. I continued my chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa, with my eyes open and taking in all the beauty of the sun. Then I closed my eyes, and just there between my eyebows, I could still see the sun as though my eyes had been open. I slowly opened my eyelids to make sure that I had shut them in the first place...what I saw next was breath-taking! The sun had seven rays, you know...like the way preschoolers draw the rays of the sun in their pictures. Has anyone actually seen the rays of the sun? How did we know about it as children then? The biggest ray I saw was at the bottom of the sun which was making contact with me....I mean I was looking at a ray of light coming from the SUN right into my face (or eyes). It was magnificent. I usually experience this Jyoti meditation when I'm looking at my lamp with eyelids half open half shut....you know what I mean. Anyhow, I kept closing then opening my eyes...the colours and shapes in and around the sun were breath-taking. It felt as though I was floating in space (our Solar System) and witnessing the power of the sun from close-up! Suddenly, I had a revelation that The Black Hole in Space is really our "Third EYE"....the EYE of GOD. Imagine that? Is that where our souls go to after death? An invisible eye? The Third Eye? Is it the Black Hole in the sky? These thoughts were going on in my mind when next I saw the outline of the sun burning a bright yellow light on the inside, then a ring of orange light around that and a ring of red light on the outer side of the sun. Awesome! Then there appeared a dark grey round shape spinning around either inside or in front of the sun, with just a ring of yellow sun shining around it. (Earth? Moon?...I wonder). Around the sun were rings and rings of hot colours, spanning as wide as five times the size of the sun. In my mind, I kept thinking I must paint a picture of these colours....

At last I finished chanting the Hanuman Chalisa, so I instinctively made salutations to the SUN and returned to my normal seating position, giving thanks and bowing in front of my lamp and Sai Baba's portrait. I continued with my reading from "The Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers" by Swami Paramanda. This was the thought of the day on page 174.

June 1st:

Salient Thought for the Day:

Have Faith! It glorifies the life. It exalts it.

Lines to memorise:

It is the flame of faith that sheds light upon our life's straight and narrow path.

Faith, how oft thou dost come to my rescue as I stand in the dark corners of life, puzzled and helpless. O blessed Faith, Thy transcendent glow hath filled my life! Thy lustre hath brought me new sight. I shall walk now with the light of Thy holy sanctity.

Lesson:

What you need is a basis in life which will bring you upliftment, courage and resourcefulness. At no time do you need to feel lonely, destitute, devoid of help. All will come out right if you have faith. Faith always enriches the life and brings true understanding.

Prayer:

O Thou who art the source of all goodness, may I learn to work, worship and aspire with unaltering faith and selfless spirit. May I gain strength and vigor of mind, high inspiration and peace. May Thy holy peace fill my heart and life.

[The Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers, Swami Paramanda, p. 174]

Thank you for reading my recount of this amazing experience. I pray that all who read this may feel the same power, faith and peace that I felt.

Love, faith and peace to you and your loved ones.

Happy Birthday Kanthan

2009-05-24T03:07:00.001-07:00

Kanthan's Birthday Pics - Facebook

Kanthan, Happy Birthday Song

2009-05-24T02:57:00.001-07:00

Sai Bhajan - Kaliyuga Avathara

2009-05-22T03:39:00.001-07:00

NASA Image Gallery

2009-05-22T02:41:00.001-07:00

NASA Image Gallery

View of the journey home - Atlantis 22 May 09

Mrs Raman's Coolkids Blog

2009-05-22T02:19:00.001-07:00

Click to visit Kree's Class Blog

Duke - 5 months - Drop it!

2009-05-22T02:16:00.001-07:00

Duke - 5 months - Catch!

2009-05-22T02:15:00.001-07:00

Duke - 4 months old - Learning to catch!

2009-05-22T02:12:00.001-07:00

Duke - 3 months old

2009-05-22T02:08:00.001-07:00

Duke - 8 weeks old

2009-05-22T02:06:00.001-07:00

Duke - first day at home

2009-05-22T02:05:00.001-07:00

Deepavali… from Darkness to light

2008-10-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

DEEPAVALI, commonly known as DIWALI, is a major Indian festival spread over 5 days that is very significant in Hinduism known as the "Festival of Lights," it symbolizes the VICTORY OF GOOD OVER EVIL and lamps (diyas) are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for humankind.

"Regardless of the explanations one prefers, what the festival of lights really stands for
today is a reaffirmation of hope, a renewed commitment to friendship and goodwill, and a
religiously sanctioned celebration of the simple — and some not so simple — joys of life."
This year (2008) Deepavali is celebrated over a period of 5 days beginning from the 26th October to the 30th October.

Diwali is one of the most popular and eagerly awaited Hindu festivals around the world.
Hindus regard it as a celebration of life and use the occasion to strengthen family and social
relationships. For Hindus it is one of the most important festivals, and it is a New Year
in some Hindu calendars.

The Deepavali lights represent the time when Shree Raam came back from the forest, and
all in Ayodyhya lit lamps to welcome their most beloved Lord back home after fourteen
years of exile in the forest. Many do believe that when the lamps are lit this helps Mother Lakshmi find her way into people's homes. Celebrations focus on lights and lamps, particularly traditional dipa or deeya (earthen lamp).

Diwali is a colloquial name used in North India, while the festival is formally called Deepavali in South India. The Sanskrit word Deepavali means an array of lights that stands for victory of brightness over darkness. As the knowledge of Sanskrit diminished, the name was popularly modified to Diwali, especially in northern India. In South India, Diwali does not coincide with the beginning of a new year as South Indian Hindus follow a different calendar, where it falls on the night of the new moon in the month of Kartik (this year this day falls on the 28th October).

Hindus find cause to celebrate this festival for different reasons:
• It commemorates the killing of Narakasura, an evil demon who created havoc and
was killed by Lord Krishna Himself. Before Narakasura's death, he requested a boon
from his mother (Mother Earth), that everyone should celebrate his death with
colorful light.
• According to the Skanda Purana, Mother Parvati observed 21 days of austerity
starting from ashtami of shukla paksha (eighth day of the waxing period of moon) to
get half of the body of her dear husband Lord Shiva. This vrat (austerity) is known
as Kedhara Vrata. Deepavali is the completion day of this austerity. This is the day
Lord Shiva accepted Mother Parvati into the left half of his form and appeared as
Ardharishvara.
• Diwali also celebrates the return of Shree Ramachandra, King of Ayodhya, with his
wife Sita and brother Shree Lakshmanji to Ayodhya from a war in which He killed
the demon king Ravana. People light oil lamps along the way to light their path in the
darkness.
• In Bhavishyottara and Brahma Vaivarta Purana, Diwali is associated with Bali
Maharaja, who is allowed to return to earth once a year.

The Five days of Diwali:
Diwali is celebrated over five days in most of India. All the days except Diwali are named
using the designation in the Indian calendar. A lunar half-month is 15 days. Diwali as a newmoon
day marks the last day of a 15-day period. Diwali being festival of lights, across India people celebrate it via symbolic diyas or kandils (colorful paper lanterns) as an integral part of Diwali decorations.

1) Dhan-trayodashi or dhan teras (26th October): Dhan means "wealth" and
Trayodashi means "13th day". Thus, as the name implies, this day falls on the 13th day of
the second half of the lunar month. It is an auspicious day for shopping. This day is of
special importance for traders and business people.
2) Naraka Chaturdasi (27th October): Chaturdasi is the fourteenth day on which
demon Narakasura was killed. (The katha is given below). It signifies the victory of good
over evil and light over darkness. In South India, this is the actual day of festivities.
3) Diwali-Amavasya (28th October): The actual day of Diwali, is celebrated on the
third day of the festival, when the moon completely wanes and total darkness sets in the
night sky. Hindus wake up way before dawn as early as 4h00 in the morning, have a fragrant
oil bath and wear new clothes. They light small lamps all around the house and draw
elaborate rangoli (patterns) outside their homes. They perform pujas (prayer) with offerings to
Shree Sita-Raam/Radha-Krishna/Lakshmi-Narayana, as He liberated the world from the
demon Narakasura on this day. Taking a bath before sunrise, when the stars are still visible
in the sky is equivalent to taking a bath in the Ganga River. Hence, when people greet each
other in the morning, they ask "Have you performed your Ganga Snaanam?” (Well most of us
are not in India so what you can do in this case purchase Ganga Water from your nearest
puja shop and in a bucket pour a cap of Ganga water from the bottle and fill the bucket with
normal water and have a bath… it’s the same thing as bathing in Mother Ganga herself). As
this is a day of rejoicement, many will have very elaborate breakfasts and lunches and meet
family and friends. In the evening, lamps are again lit and Mother Lakshmi is worshipped and
offered special dishes. This being a no moon day (New moon/Amavasya), many will offer
tarpana (offerings of water and sesame seeds) to their ancestors. This is from the Garuda
Purana. Like Christmas in the West, Diwali is very much a time for buying and exchanging
gifts.
4) Govardhan Puja or also called Annakut (29th October), is celebrated as the day
Shree Krishna defeated Lord Indradev. For Annakut a mountain of food (normally halva) is
decorated symbolizing Govardhan Mountain lifted by Lord Krishna. On this day men present
gifts to their wives.
5) Bhayiduj (30th October) — on this day, brothers and sisters meet to express their
love and affection for each other. Most Indian festivals bring together families; Bhaiduj
brings together sisters and brothers, and is a significant festive day for them. This festival
is ancient, and pre-dates 'Raksha Bandhan' another brother-sister festival being celebrated
today.

The celebrations vary in different regions:
• In South India, Naraka Chaturdashi is the main day.
• The main festival in North India is on Amavasya evening with Lakshmi Puja which is
followed by lighting of oil lamps around the house.

Three Diwali Kathas…
Three of the Kathas (stories) of Diwali show the triumph of Good over Evil, and tell of the
destruction of two monsters that preyed on humanity.
The killing of Narakasura: - Narakasura was the evil king of Pragjyotishpur, near Nepal. He
ruled with a reign of terror, abducted 16,000 daughters of the deva, and stole the earrings
of Aditi, mother of the devas. The devas asked Lord Krishna for help, and after a mighty
battle He killed the demon, freed the girls, and recovered the earrings. The rescue of the
16,000 girls is the origin of the story that Shree Krishna had 16,000 wives. After His
victory Lord Krishna returned very early in the morning and was bathed and massaged with
scented oils. Taking an early morning bath with oil is still a Diwali tradition. To read the full
katha of the Killing of Narakaasura.

The killing of the demon Ravana: - Ravana, who had ten arms and ten heads, was the wicked king of the island of Shree Lanka, who kidnapped the wife of Shree Raam. Shree Raam had been in exile for 14 years because of a disagreement as to whether He or His brother
should be the next king in Ayodhya. After a great battle Shree Raam killed Ravana demon
and recovered Mother Sita. Shree Raam's return with Mother Sita to Ayodhya and His
subsequent coronation as king is celebrated at Diwali. When Shree Raam and Mother Sita first returned to Ayodhya it was a dark moonless night and they couldn't see where they were going. Their people put little lamps outside their houses so that the new king and queen could find Their way, thus beginning the tradition of the festival of lights.

The Katha of Bali Maharaj: - In the Srimad Bhagavatam 8th canto chapters 15-23 narrates
the katha of Bali Maharaj and Lord Vamanadeva. Bali Maharaj was born in a demon
family and due to his penance he ruled over material creation including Mother Lakshmi. In
the absence of Lakshmi Mata the world was deprived of their basic needs and suffered
immensely. The devas approached Lord Vishnu who didn’t need much coaxing to incarnate to
save the world… the Lord incarnated as the son of Aditi-devi and the great sage Kashyapa
Muni. Then the Lord known as Vamana (dwarf) deva approached Bali maharaja for three
steps of land which Bali Maharaja immediately agreed despite being asked not to do so by
his Guru. The Lord first step covered the entire surface of the world, and by extending His
body He covered the entire sky. With His hands He covered all directions, and with His
second footstep He covered the entire upper planetary system. Therefore there was no
vacant place where He could take His third footstep. The Lord accepted Bali Maharaja’s
defeat because he couldn’t deliver on his promise and was sent to planet Sutala. When this
happened Mother Lakshmi and all the Devi's and Deva's were released and order restored.
This happened on Diwali day.

A bit of controversy to end. ..many will worry that they cannot take 5 days off from work...you can choose any of the 5 days. Many will choose the 28th but we got to look at the bigger
picture and that this is a time for joy and celebrations. We should be proud other religions
have one main day while we have 5 main days to celebrate Diwali. It makes you feel great to
be a Hindu now.

How to observe this extremely auspicious day:

After you have taken a bath early in the morning and wearing clean clothes go to your prayer place and offer incense, lamp and flowers (all seven times in a clockwise around the picture of Shree Sita-Raam. After that all the food that has been prepared should be offered first to Shree Sita-Raam. Leave the unoffered food before Their Lordships to bless and after about 10 minutes remove from the prayer place and offer that prashad (blessed food) for all to eat.

Many perform Lakshmi Puja on this day. If one likes to perform this puja visit out website and in the ARTILCES block under Vara Lakshmi Puja we have the full puja method explained. But most importantly enjoy these 5 days. During these five days of Deepavali one should not consume any meat.

Thank you for taking time to read this article. We are trying to reach out not only to Hindus
but to others of other faiths as well. By compiling and publishing these articles we hope
that others will understand what a beautiful and diversified way of life Hinduism (Sanathan
Dharma) really is.

Please do visit our Website to receive more free information about our beautiful culture
www.h4all.org

Compiled (for the upliftment of Sanatan Dharma – the Eternal Religion)
Narottam Das (South Africa)

Phone (+27) 32 9444 108 or (+27) 82 714 1504
E-mail nd@h4all.org

Introducing DUKE - German Shepherd X

2008-09-13T02:58:00.000-07:00

On a happier note our family is excited to have our very first pet in New Zealand which we brought home today (Saturday 13 September). Kanthan and I made every excuse in the book in putting this off, e.g. how sad we were when we had to leave our dog Zelda behind with our maid when we immigrated to New Zealand (tears!!). Also, that we are likely to go on overseas holidays now and again, and how sad to leave our doggie behind – excuses, excuses! We have been searching for the perfect pet for some time now and on Monday night Thanusha finally found the one she wanted on Trademe at the Fins and Feathers Petshop. Our pup Duke (named by Kaveshan) is a German Shepherd crossed with either a Siberian Husky or Rottweiler. He is was born on 21/07/08 and is now 7 weeks old, black with light brown legs and is expected to grow between 35kg - 4okg!! Welcome to our family Duke :-)

What is Pneumonia - From the Free Dictionary

2008-09-13T01:44:00.000-07:00

Pneumonia
Definition
Pneumonia is an infection of the lung that can be caused by nearly any class of organism known to cause human infections. These include bacteria, amoebae, viruses, fungi, and parasites. In the United States, pneumonia is the sixth most common disease leading to death; 2 million Americans develop pneumonia each year, and 40,000-70,000 die from it. Pneumonia is also the most common fatal infection acquired by already hospitalized patients. In developing countries, pneumonia ties with diarrhea as the most common cause of death. Even in nonfatal cases, pneumonia is a significant economic burden on the health care system. One study estimates that people in the American workforce who develop pneumonia cost employers five times as much in health care as the average worker.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), however, the number of deaths from pneumonia in the United States has declined slightly since 2001.
Description
Anatomy of the lung
To better understand pneumonia, it is important to understand the basic anatomic features of the respiratory system. The human respiratory system begins at the nose and mouth, where air is breathed in (inspired) and out (expired). The air tube extending from the nose is called the nasopharynx. The tube carrying air breathed in through the mouth is called the oropharynx. The nasopharynx and the oropharynx merge into the larynx. The oropharynx also carries swallowed substances, including food, water, and salivary secretion, which must pass into the esophagus and then the stomach. The larynx is protected by a trap door called the epiglottis. The epiglottis prevents substances that have been swallowed, as well as substances that have been regurgitated (thrown up), from heading down into the larynx and toward the lungs.
A useful method of picturing the respiratory system is to imagine an upside-down tree. The larynx flows into the trachea, which is the tree trunk, and thus the broadest part of the respiratory tree. The trachea divides into two tree limbs, the right and left bronchi. Each one of these branches off into multiple smaller bronchi, which course through the tissue of the lung. Each bronchus divides into tubes of smaller and smaller diameter, finally ending in the terminal bronchioles. The air sacs of the lung, in which oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange actually takes place, are clustered at the ends of the bronchioles like the leaves of a tree. They are called alveoli.
The tissue of the lung which serves only a supportive role for the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli is called the lung stroma.
Function of the respiratory system
The main function of the respiratory system is to provide oxygen, the most important energy source for the body's cells. Inspired air (the air you breath in) contains the oxygen, and travels down the respiratory tree to the alveoli. The oxygen moves out of the alveoli and is sent into circulation throughout the body as part of the red blood cells. The oxygen in the inspired air is exchanged within the alveoli for the waste product of human metabolism, carbon dioxide. The air you breathe out contains the gas called carbon dioxide. This gas leaves the alveoli during expiration. To restate this exchange of gases simply, you breathe in oxygen, you breathe out carbon dioxide
Respiratory system defenses
The healthy human lung is sterile. There are no normally resident bacteria or viruses (unlike the upper respiratory system and parts of the gastrointestinal system, where bacteria dwell even in a healthy state). There are multiple safeguards along the path of the respiratory system. These are designed to keep invading organisms from leading to infection.
The first line of defense includes the hair in the nostrils, which serves as a filter for large particles. The epiglottis is a trap door of sorts, designed to prevent food and other swallowed substances from entering the larynx and then trachea. Sneezing and coughing, both provoked by the presence of irritants within the respiratory system, help to clear such irritants from the respiratory tract.
Mucus, produced through the respiratory system, also serves to trap dust and infectious organisms. Tiny hair like projections (cilia) from cells lining the respiratory tract beat constantly. They move debris trapped by mucus upwards and out of the respiratory tract. This mechanism of protection is referred to as the mucociliary escalator.
Cells lining the respiratory tract produce several types of immune substances which protect against various organisms. Other cells (called macrophages) along the respiratory tract actually ingest and kill invading organisms.
The organisms that cause pneumonia, then, are usually carefully kept from entering the lungs by virtue of these host defenses. However, when an individual encounters a large number of organisms at once, the usual defenses may be overwhelmed, and infection may occur. This can happen either by inhaling contaminated air droplets, or by aspiration of organisms inhabiting the upper airways.
Conditions predisposing to pneumonia
In addition to exposure to sufficient quantities of causative organisms, certain conditions may make an individual more likely to become ill with pneumonia. Certainly, the lack of normal anatomical structure could result in an increased risk of pneumonia. For example, there are certain inherited defects of cilia which result in less effective protection. Cigarette smoke, inhaled directly by a smoker or second-hand by a innocent bystander, interferes significantly with ciliary function, as well as inhibiting macrophage function.
Stroke, seizures, alcohol, and various drugs interfere with the function of the epiglottis. This leads to a leaky seal on the trap door, with possible contamination by swallowed substances and/or regurgitated stomach contents. Alcohol and drugs also interfere with the normal cough reflex. This further decreases the chance of clearing unwanted debris from the respiratory tract.
Viruses may interfere with ciliary function, allowing themselves or other microorganism invaders (such as bacteria) access to the lower respiratory tract. One of the most important viruses is HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus), the causative virus in AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). In recent years this virus has resulted in a huge increase in the incidence of pneumonia. Because AIDS results in a general decreased effectiveness of many aspects of the host's immune system, a patient with AIDS is susceptible to all kinds of pneumonia. This includes some previously rare parasitic types which would be unable to cause illness in an individual possessing a normal immune system.
The elderly have a less effective mucociliary escalator, as well as changes in their immune system. This causes this age group to be more at risk for the development of pneumonia.
Various chronic conditions predispose a person to infection with pneumonia. These include asthma, cystic fibrosis, and neuromuscular diseases which may interfere with the seal of the epiglottis. Esophageal disorders may result in stomach contents passing upwards into the esophagus. This increases the risk of aspiration into the lungs of those stomach contents with their resident bacteria. Diabetes, sickle cell anemia, lymphoma, leukemia, and emphysema also predispose a person to pneumonia.
Genetic factors also appear to be involved in susceptibility to pneumonia. Certain changes in DNA appear to affect some patients' risk of developing such complications of pneumonia as septic shock.
Pneumonia is also one of the most frequent infectious complications of all types of surgery. Many drugs used during and after surgery may increase the risk of aspiration, impair the cough reflex, and cause a patient to underfill their lungs with air. Pain after surgery also discourages a patient from breathing deeply enough, and from coughing effectively.
Radiation treatment for breast cancer increases the risk of pneumonia in some patients by weakening lung tissue.
Causes and symptoms
The list of organisms which can cause pneumonia is very large, and includes nearly every class of infecting organism: viruses, bacteria, bacteria-like organisms, fungi, and parasites (including certain worms). Different organisms are more frequently encountered by different age groups. Further, other characteristics of an individual may place him or her at greater risk for infection by particular types of organisms:
Pneumonia is suspected in any patient who has fever, cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and increased respirations (number of breaths per minute). Fever with a shaking chill is even more suspicious. Many patients cough up clumps of sputum, commonly known as spit. These secretions are produced in the alveoli during an infection or other inflammatory condition. They may appear streaked with pus or blood. Severe pneumonia results in the signs of oxygen deprivation. This includes blue appearance of the nail beds or lips (cyanosis).
The invading organism causes symptoms, in part, by provoking an overly-strong immune response in the lungs. In other words, the immune system, which should help fight off infections, kicks into such high gear, that it damages the lung tissue and makes it more susceptible to infection. The small blood vessels in the lungs (capillaries) become leaky, and protein-rich fluid seeps into the alveoli. This results in less functional area for oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange. The patient becomes relatively oxygen deprived, while retaining potentially damaging carbon dioxide. The patient breathes faster and faster, in an effort to bring in more oxygen and blow off more carbon dioxide.
Mucus production is increased, and the leaky capillaries may tinge the mucus with blood. Mucus plugs actually further decrease the efficiency of gas exchange in the lung. The alveoli fill further with fluid and debris from the large number of white blood cells being produced to fight the infection.
Consolidation, a feature of bacterial pneumonias, occurrs when the alveoli, which are normally hollow air spaces within the lung, instead become solid, due to quantities of fluid and debris.
Viral pneumonias and mycoplasma pneumonias do not result in consolidation. These types of pneumonia primarily infect the walls of the alveoli and the stroma of the lung.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (sars)
Severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, is a contagious and potentially fatal disease that first appeared in the form of a multi-country outbreak in early February 2003. Later that month, the CDC began to work with the World Health Organization (WHO) to investigate the cause(s) of SARS and to develop guidelines for infection control. SARS has been described as an "atypical pneumonia of unknown etiology;" by the end of March 2003, the disease agent was identified as a previously unknown coronavirus.
The early symptoms of SARS include a high fever with chills, headache, muscle cramps, and weakness. This early phase is followed by respiratory symptoms, usually a dry cough and painful or difficult breathing. Some patients require mechanical ventilation. The mortality rate of SARS is thought to be about 3%.
As of the end of March 2003, the CDC did not have clearly defined recommendations for treating SARS. Treatments that have been used include antibiotics known to be effective against bacterial pneumonia; ribavirin and other antiviral drugs; and steroids.
Diagnosis
For the most part, diagnosis is based on the patient's report of symptoms, combined with examination of the chest. Listening with a stethoscope will reveal abnormal sounds, and tapping on the patient's back (which should yield a resonant sound due to air filling the alveoli) may instead yield a dull thump if the alveoli are filled with fluid and debris.
Laboratory diagnosis can be made of some bacterial pneumonias by staining sputum with special chemicals and looking at it under a microscope. Identification of the specific type of bacteria may require culturing the sputum (using the sputum sample to grow greater numbers of the bacteria in a lab dish.).
X-ray examination of the chest may reveal certain abnormal changes associated with pneumonia. Localized shadows obscuring areas of the lung may indicate a bacterial pneumonia, while streaky or patchy appearing changes in the x-ray picture may indicate viral or mycoplasma pneumonia. These changes on x ray, however, are known to lag in time behind the patient's actual symptoms.
Treatment
Prior to the discovery of penicillin antibiotics, bacterial pneumonia was almost always fatal. Today, antibiotics, especially given early in the course of the disease, are very effective against bacterial causes of pneumonia. Erythromycin and tetracycline improve recovery time for symptoms of mycoplasma pneumonia. They, do not, however, eradicate the organisms. Amantadine and acyclovir may be helpful against certain viral pneumonias.
A newer antibiotic named linezolid (Zyvox) is being used to treat penicillin-resistant organisms that cause pneumonia. Linezolid is the first of a new line of antibiotics known as oxazolidinones. Another new drug known as ertapenem (Invanz) is reported to be effective in treating bacterial pneumonia.

Shortness of Breath - From the Free Dictionary

2008-09-13T01:31:00.000-07:00

Shortness of Breath
Definition
Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a feeling of difficult or labored breathing that is out of proportion to the patient's level of physical activity. It is a symptom of a variety of different diseases or disorders and may be either acute or chronic.
Description
The experience of dyspnea depends on its severity and underlying causes. The feeling itself results from a combination of impulses relayed to the brain from nerve endings in the lungs, rib cage, chest muscles, or diaphragm, combined with the patient's perception and interpretation of the sensation. In some cases, the patient's sensation of breathlessness is intensified by anxiety about its cause. Patients describe dyspnea variously as unpleasant shortness of breath, a feeling of increased effort or tiredness in moving the chest muscles, a panicky feeling of being smothered, or a sense of tightness or cramping in the chest wall.
Causes and symptoms
ACUTE DYSPNEA. Acute dyspnea with sudden onset is a frequent cause of emergency room visits. Most cases of acute dyspnea involve pulmonary (lung and breathing) disorders, cardiovascular disease, or chest trauma.
PULMONARY DISORDERS. Pulmonary disorders that can cause dyspnea include airway obstruction by a foreign object, swelling due to infection, or anaphylactic shock; acute pneumonia; hemorrhage from the lungs; or severe bronchospasms associated with asthma.
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE. Acute dyspnea can be caused by disturbances of the heart rhythm, failure of the left ventricle, mitral valve (a heart valve) dysfunction, or an embolus (a clump of tissue, fat, or gas) that is blocking the pulmonary circulation. Most pulmonary emboli (blood clots) originate in the deep veins of the lower legs and eventually migrate to the pulmonary artery.
TRAUMA. Chest injuries, both closed injuries and penetrating wounds, can cause pneumothorax (the presence of air inside the chest cavity), bruises, or fractured ribs. Pain from these injuries results in dyspnea. The impact of the driver's chest against the steering wheel in auto accidents is a frequent cause of closed chest injuries.
OTHER CAUSES. Anxiety attacks sometimes cause acute dyspnea; they may or may not be associated with chest pain. Anxiety attacks are often accompanied by hyperventilation, which is a breathing pattern characterized by abnormally rapid and deep breaths. Hyperventilation raises the oxygen level in the blood, causing chest pain and dizziness.
Chronic dyspnea
PULMONARY DISORDERS. Chronic dyspnea can be caused by asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, emphysema, inflammation of the lungs, pulmonary hypertension, tumors, or disorders of the vocal cords.
HEART DISEASE. Disorders of the left side of the heart or inadequate supply of blood to the heart muscle can cause dyspnea. In some cases a tumor in the heart or inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart may cause dyspnea.
NEUROMUSCULAR DISORDERS. Neuromuscular disorders cause dyspnea from progressive deterioration of the patient's chest muscles. They include muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
OTHER CAUSES. Patients who are severely anemic may develop dyspnea if they exercise vigorously. Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism may cause shortness of breath, and so may gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Both chronic anxiety disorders z of physical fitness can also cause episodes of dyspnea. Deformities of the chest or obesity can cause dyspnea by limiting the movement of the chest wall and the ability of the lungs to fill completely.
Diagnosis
Patient history
The patient's history provides the doctor with such necessary information as a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma, or other allergic conditions; the presence of chest pain as well as difficulty breathing; recent accidents or recent surgery; information about smoking habits; the patient's baseline level of physical activity and exercise habits; and a psychiatric history of panic attacks or anxiety disorders.
ASSESSMENT OF BODY POSITION. How a person's body position affects his/her dyspnea symptoms sometimes gives hints as to the underlying cause of the disorder. Dyspnea that is worse when the patient is sitting up is called platypnea and indicates the possibility of liver disease. Dyspnea that is worse when the patient is lying down is called orthopnea, and is associated with heart disease or paralysis of the diaphragm. Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) refers to dyspnea that occurs during sleep and forces the patient to awake gasping for breath. It is usually relieved if the patient sits up or stands. PND may point to dysfunction of the left ventricle of the heart, hypertension, or narrowing of the mitral valve.
Physical examination
The doctor will examine the patient's chest in order to determine the rate and depth of breathing, the effort required, the condition of the patient's breathing muscles, and any evidence of chest deformities or trauma. He or she will listen for wheezing, stridor, or signs of fluid in the lungs. If the patient has a fever, the doctor will look for other signs of pneumonia. The doctor will check the patient's heart functions, including blood pressure, pulse rate, and the presence of heart murmurs or other abnormal heart sounds. If the doctor suspects a blood clot in one of the large veins leading to the heart, he or she will examine the patient's legs for signs of swelling.
Diagnostic tests
BASIC DIAGNOSTIC TESTS. Patients who are seen in emergency rooms are given a chest x ray and electrocardiogram (ECG) to assist the doctor in evaluating abnormalities of the chest wall, also to determine the position of the diaphragm, possible rib fractures or pneumothorax, irregular heartbeat, or the adequacy of the supply of blood to the heart muscle. Also, the patient may be given a breathing test on an instrument called a spirometer to screen for airway disorders.
The doctor may order blood tests and arterial blood gas tests to rule out anemia, hyperventilation—from an anxiety attack—, or thyroid dysfunction. A sputum culture can be used to test for pneumonia.
SPECIALIZED TESTS. Specialized tests may be ordered for patients with normal results from basic diagnostic tests for dyspnea. High-resolution CT scans can be used for suspected airway obstruction or mild emphysema. Tissue biopsy performed with a bronchoscope can be used for patients with suspected lung disease.
If the doctor suspects a pulmonary embolism, heor she may order ventilation-perfusion scanning to inspect lung function, an angiogram of blood vessels, or ultrasound studies of the leg veins. Echocardiography can be used to test for pulmonary hypertension and heart disease.
Pulmonary function studies or electromyography (EMG) are used to assess neuromuscular diseases. Exercise testing is used to assess dyspnea related to COPD, anxiety attacks, poor physical fitness, and the severity of lung or heart disease. The level of acidity in the patient's esophagus may be monitored to rule out GERD.
Treatment
Treatment of dyspnea depends on its underlying cause.
Acute dyspnea
Patients with acute dyspnea are given oxygen in the emergency room, with the following treatments for specific conditions:
Chronic dyspnea
The treatment of chronic dyspnea depends on the underlying disorder. Asthma can often be managed with a combination of medications to reduce airway spasms and removal of allergens from the patient's environment. COPD requires both medication, lifestyle changes, and long-term physical rehabilitation. Anxiety disorders are usually treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. GERD can usually be managed with antacids, other medications, and dietary changes. There are no permanent cures for myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy.
Tumors and certain types of chest deformities can be treated surgically.
Alternative treatment
The appropriate alternative therapy for shortness of breath depends on the underlying cause of the condition. When dyspnea is acute and severe, oxygen therapy is used either in the doctor's office or in the emergency room. For shortness of breath with an underlying physical cause like asthma, anaphylactic shock, or pneumonia, the physical condition should be treated. Botanical and homeopathic remedies can be used for acute dyspnea, if the proper remedies and formulas are prescribed. If the dyspnea has a psychological basis (especially if it is caused by anxiety), acupuncture, botanical medicine, and homeopathy can help the patient heal at a deep level.

What is Asthma - From the Free Dictionary

2008-09-13T01:26:00.000-07:00

Asthma
Definition
Asthma is a chronic (long-lasting) inflammatory disease of the airways. In those susceptible to asthma, this inflammation causes the airways to narrow periodically. This, in turn, produces wheezing and breathlessness, sometimes to the point where the patient gasps for air. Obstruction to air flow either stops spontaneously or responds to a wide range of treatments, but continuing inflammation makes the

A comparison of normal bronchioles and those of an asthma sufferer.
(Illustration by Hans & Cassady.)airways hyper-responsive to stimuli such as cold air, exercise, dust mites, pollutants in the air, and even stress and anxiety.
Description
Between 17 million and 26 million Americans have asthma, and the number seems to be increasing. In about 1992, the number with asthma was about 10 million, and had risen 42% from 1982, just 10 years prior. Not only is asthma becoming more frequent, but it also is a more severe disease than before, despite modern drug treatments. Asthma accounts for almost 500,000 hospitalizations, two million emergency department visits, and 5,000 deaths in the United States each year.
The changes that take place in the lungs of asthmatic persons makes the airways (the "breathing tubes," or bronchi and the smaller bronchioles) hyperreactive to many different types of stimuli that don't affect healthy lungs. In an asthma attack, the muscle tissue in the walls of bronchi go into spasm, and the cells lining the airways swell and secrete mucus into the air spaces. Both these actions cause the bronchi to become narrowed (bronchoconstriction). As a result, an asthmatic person has to make a much greater effort to breathe in air and to expel it.
Cells in the bronchial walls, called mast cells, release certain substances that cause the bronchial muscle to contract and stimulate mucus formation. These substances, which include histamine and a group of chemicals called leukotrienes, also bring white blood cells into the area, which is a key part of the inflammatory response. Many patients with asthma are prone to react to such "foreign" substances as pollen, house dust mites, or animal dander; these are called allergens. On the other hand, asthma affects many patients who are not allergic in this way.
Asthma usually begins in childhood or adolescence, but it also may first appear during adult years. While the symptoms may be similar, certain important aspects of asthma are different in children and adults.
Child-onset asthma
Nearly one-third on the 17 to 26 million Americans with asthma are children. When asthma begins in childhood, it often does so in a child who is likely, for genetic reasons, to become sensitized to common allergens in the environment (atopic person). When these children are exposed to house-dust mites, animal proteins, fungi, or other potential allergens, they produce a type of antibody that is intended to engulf and destroy the foreign materials. This has the effect of making the airway cells sensitive to particular materials. Further exposure can lead rapidly to an asthmatic response. This condition of atopy is present in at least one-third and as many as one-half of the general population. When an infant or young child wheezes during viral infections, the presence of allergy (in the child or a close relative) is a clue that asthma may well continue throughout childhood.
Adult-onset asthma
Allergenic materials may also play a role when adults become asthmatic. Asthma can actually start at any age and in a wide variety of situations. Many adults who are not allergic have conditions such as sinusitis or nasal polyps, or they may be sensitive to aspirin and related drugs. Another major source of adult asthma is exposure at work to animal products, certain forms of plastic, wood dust, or metals.
Causes and symptoms
In most cases, asthma is caused by inhaling an allergen that sets off the chain of biochemical and tissue changes leading to airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and wheezing. Because avoiding (or at least minimizing) exposure is the most effective way of treating asthma, it is vital to identify which allergen or irritant is causing symptoms in a particular patient. Once asthma is present, symptoms can be set off or made worse if the patient also has rhinitis (inflammation of the lining of the nose) or sinusitis. When, for some reason, stomach acid passes back up the esophagus (acid reflux), this can also make asthma worse. A viral infection of the respiratory tract can also inflame an asthmatic reaction. Aspirin and a type of drug called beta-blockers, often used to treat high blood pressure, can also worsen the symptoms of asthma.
The most important inhaled allergens giving rise to attacks of asthma are:
Key terms
Allergen — A foreign substance, such as mites in house dust or animal dander which, when inhaled, causes the airways to narrow and produces symptoms of asthma.
Atopy — A state that makes persons more likely to develop allergic reactions of any type, including the inflammation and airway narrowing typical of asthma.
Hypersensitivity — The state where even a tiny amount of allergen can cause the airways to constrict and bring on an asthmatic attack.
Spirometry — A test using an instrument called a spirometer that shows how difficult it is for an asthmatic patient to breathe. Used to determine the severity of asthma and to see how well it is responding to treatment.
Inhaling tobacco smoke, either by smoking or being near people who are smoking, can irritate the airways and trigger an asthmatic attack. Air pollutants can have a similar effect. In addition, there are three important factors that regularly produce attacks in certain asthmatic patients, and they may sometimes be the sole cause of symptoms. They are:
Wheezing is often obvious, but mild asthmatic attacks may be confirmed when the physician listens to the patient's chest with a stethoscope. Besides wheezing and being short of breath, the patient may cough and may report a feeling of "tightness" in the chest. Children may have itching on their back or neck at the start of an attack. Wheezing is often loudest when the patient breathes out, in an attempt to expel used air through the narrowed airways. Some asthmatics are free of symptoms most of the time but may occasionally be short of breath for a brief time. Others spend much of their days (and nights) coughing and wheezing, until properly treated. Crying or even laughing may bring on an attack. Severe episodes are often seen when the patient gets a viral respiratory tract infection or is exposed to a heavy load of an allergen or irritant. Asthmatic attacks may last only a few minutes or can go on for hours or even days (a condition called status asthmaticus).
Being short of breath may cause a patient to become very anxious, sit upright, lean forward, and use the muscles of the neck and chest wall to help breathe. The patient may be able to say only a few words at a time before stopping to take a breath. Confusion and a bluish tint to the skin are clues that the oxygen supply is much too low, and that emergency treatment is needed. In a severe attack that lasts for some time, some of the air sacs in the lung may rupture so that air collects within the chest. This makes it even harder to breathe in enough air.
Diagnosis
Apart from listening to the patient's chest, the examiner should look for maximum chest expansion while taking in air. Hunched shoulders and contracting neck muscles are other signs of narrowed airways. Nasal polyps or increased amounts of nasal secretions are often noted in asthmatic patients. Skin changes, like atopic dermatitis or eczema, are a tipoff that the patient has allergic problems.
Inquiring about a family history of asthma or allergies can be a valuable indicator of asthma. The diagnosis may be strongly suggested when typical symptoms and signs are present. A test called spirometry measures how rapidly air is exhaled and how much is retained in the lungs. Repeating the test after the patient inhales a drug that widens the air passages (a bronchodilator) will show whether the airway narrowing is reversible, which is a very typical finding in asthma. Often patients use a related instrument, called a peak flow meter, to keep track of asthma severity when at home.
Often, it is difficult to determine what is triggering asthma attacks. Allergy skin testing may be used, although an allergic skin response does not always mean that the allergen being tested is causing the asthma. Also, the body's immune system produces antibody to fight off the allergen, and the amount of antibody can be measured by a blood test. This will show how sensitive the patient is to a particular allergen. If the diagnosis is still in doubt, the patient can inhale a suspect allergen while using a spirometer to detect airway narrowing. Spirometry can also be repeated after a bout of exercise if exercise-induced asthma is a possibility. A chest x ray will help rule out other disorders.
Treatment
Patients should be periodically examined and have their lung function measured by spirometry to make sure that treatment goals are being met. These goals are to prevent troublesome symptoms, to maintain lung function as close to normal as possible, and to allow patients to pursue their normal activities including those requiring exertion. The best drug therapy is that which controls asthmatic symptoms while causing few or no side-effects.
Drugs
METHYLXANTHINES. The chief methylxanthine drug is theophylline. It may exert some anti-inflammatory effect, and is especially helpful in controlling nighttime symptoms of asthma. When, for some reason, a patient cannot use an inhaler to maintain long-term control, sustained-release theophylline is a good alternative. The blood levels of the drug must be measured periodically, as too high a dose can cause an abnormal heart rhythm or convulsions.
BETA-RECEPTOR AGONISTS. These drugs, which are bronchodilators, are the best choice for relieving sudden attacks of asthma and for preventing attacks from being triggered by exercise. Some agonists, such as albuterol, act mainly in lung cells and have little effect on other organs, such as the heart. These drugs generally start acting within minutes, but their effects last only four to six hours. Longer-acting brochodilators have been developed. They may last up to 12 hours. Bronchodilators may be taken in pill or liquid form, but normally are used as inhalers, which go directly to the lungs and result in fewer side effects.
STEROIDS. These drugs, which resemble natural body hormones, block inflammation and are extremely effective in relieving symptoms of asthma. When steroids are taken by inhalation for a long period, asthma attacks become less frequent as the airways become less sensitive to allergens. This is the strongest medicine for asthma, and can control even severe cases over the long term and maintain good lung function. Steroids can cause numerous side-effects, however, including bleeding from the stomach, loss of calcium from bones, cataracts in the eye, and a diabetes-like state. Patients using steroids for lengthy periods may also have problems with wound healing, may gain weight, and may suffer mental problems. In children, growth may be slowed. Besides being inhaled, steroids may be taken by mouth or injected, to rapidly control severe asthma.
LEUKOTRIENE MODIFIERS. Leukotriene modifiers (montelukast and zafirlukast) are a new type of drug that can be used in place of steroids, for older children or adults who have a mild degree of asthma that persists. They work by counteracting leukotrienes, which are substances released by white blood cells in the lung that cause the air passages to constrict and promote mucus secretion. Leukotriene modifiers also fight off some forms of rhinitis, an added bonus for people with asthma. However, they are not proven effective in fighting seasonal allergies.
OTHER DRUGS. Cromolyn and nedocromil are anti-inflammatory drugs that are often used as initial treatment to prevent asthmatic attacks over the long term in children. They can also prevent attacks when given before exercise or when exposure to an allergen cannot be avoided. These are safe drugs but are expensive, and must be taken regularly even if there are no symptoms. Anti-cholinergic drugs, such as atropine, are useful in controlling severe attacks when added to an inhaled beta-receptor agonist. They help widen the airways and suppress mucus production.
If a patient's asthma is caused by an allergen that cannot be avoided and it has been difficult to control symptoms by drugs, immunotherapy may be worth trying. Typically, increasing amounts of the allergen are injected over a period of three to five years, so that the body can build up an effective immune response. There is a risk that this treatment may itself cause the airways to become narrowed and bring on an asthmatic attack. Not all experts are enthusiastic about immunotherapy, although some studies have shown that it reduces asthmatic symptoms caused by exposure to house-dust mites, ragweed pollen, and cat dander.
Managing asthmatic attacks
A severe asthma attack should be treated as quickly as possible. It is most important for a patient suffering an acute attack to be given extra oxygen. Rarely, it may be necessary to use a mechanical ventilator to help the patient breathe. A beta-receptor agonist is inhaled repeatedly or continuously. If the patient does not respond promptly and completely, a steroid is given. A course of steroid therapy, given after the attack is over, will make a recurrence less likely.
Maintaining control
Long-term asthma treatment is based on inhaling a beta-receptor agonist using a special inhaler that meters the dose. Patients must be instructed in proper use of an inhaler to be sure that it will deliver the right amount of drug. Once asthma has been controlled for several weeks or months, it is worth trying to cut down on drug treatment, but this must be done gradually. The last drug added should be the first to be reduced. Patients should be seen every one to six months, depending on the frequency of attacks.
Starting treatment at home, rather than in a hospital, makes for minimal delay and helps the patient to gain a sense of control over the disease. All patients should be taught how to monitor their symptoms so that they will know when an attack is starting, and those with moderate or severe asthma should know how to use a flow meter. They should also have a written "action plan" to follow if symptoms suddenly become worse, including how to adjust their medication and when to seek medical help. A 2004 report said that a review of medical studies revealed that patients with self-management written action plans had fewer hospitalizations, fewer emergency department visits, and improved lung function. They also had a 70% lower mortality rate. If more intense treatment is necessary, it should be continued for several days. Over-the-counter "remedies" should be avoided. When deciding whether a patient should be hospitalized, the past history of acute attacks, severity of symptoms, current medication, and whether good support is available at home all must be taken into account.

What is Bronchitus - From the Free Dictionary

2008-09-13T01:03:00.000-07:00

Bronchitis
Definition
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the air passages between the nose and the lungs, including the windpipe or trachea and the larger air tubes of the lung that bring air in from the trachea (bronchi). Bronchitis can either be of brief duration (acute) or have a long course (chronic). Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by a bacterial infection and can heal without complications. Chronic bronchitis is a sign of serious lung disease that may be slowed but cannot be cured.
Description
Although acute and chronic bronchitis are both inflammations of the air passages, their causes and treatments are different. Acute bronchitis is most prevalent in winter. It usually follows a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu, and can be accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection. Acute bronchitis resolves within two weeks, although the cough may persist longer. Acute bronchitis, like any upper airway inflammatory process, can increase a person's likelihood of developing pneumonia.
Anyone can get acute bronchitis, but infants, young children, and the elderly are more likely to get the disease because people in these age groups generally have weaker immune systems. Smokers and people with heart or other lung diseases are also at higher risk of developing acute bronchitis. Individuals exposed to chemical fumes or high levels of air pollution also have a greater chance of developing acute bronchitis.
Chronic bronchitis is a major cause of disability and death in the United States. The American Lung Association estimates that about 14 million Americans suffer from the disease. Like acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis is an inflammation of airways accompanied by coughing and spitting up of phlegm. In chronic bronchitis, these symptoms are present for at least three months in each of two consecutive years.
Chronic bronchitis is caused by inhaling bronchial irritants, especially cigarette smoke. Until recently, more men than women developed chronic bronchitis, but as the number of women who smoke has increased, so has their rate of chronic bronchitis. Because this disease progresses slowly, middle-aged and older people are more likely to be diagnosed with chronic bronchitis.
Key terms
Acute — Disease or condition characterized by the rapid onset of severe symptoms.
Bronchi — The larger air tubes of the lung that bring air in from the trachea.
Chronic — Disease or condition characterized by slow onset over a long period of time.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — A term used to describe chronic lung diseases, like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.
Emphysema — One of the several diseases called chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, emphysema involves the destruction of air sac walls to form abnormally large air sacs that have reduced gas exchange ability and that tend to retain air within the lungs. Symptoms include labored breathing, the inability to forcefully blow air out of the lungs, and an increased susceptibility to respiratory tract infections.
Chronic bronchitis is one of a group of diseases that fall under the name chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Other diseases in this category include emphysema and chronic asthmatic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis may progress to emphysema, or both diseases may be present together.
Causes and symptoms
Acute bronchitis
Acute bronchitis usually begins with the symptoms of a cold, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and dry cough. However, the cough soon becomes deep and painful. Coughing brings up a greenish yellow phlegm or sputum. These symptoms may be accompanied by a fever of up to 102°F (38.8°C). Wheezing after coughing is common.
In uncomplicated acute bronchitis, the fever and most other symptoms, except the cough, disappear after three to five days. Coughing may continue for several weeks. Acute bronchitis is often complicated by a bacterial infection, in which case the fever and a general feeling of illness persist. To be cured, the bacterial infection should be treated with antibiotics.
Chronic bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is caused by inhaling respiratory tract irritants. The most common irritant is cigarette smoke. The American Lung Association estimates that 80-90% of COPD cases are caused by smoking. Other irritants include chemical fumes, air pollution, and environmental irritants, such as mold or dust.
Chronic bronchitis develops slowly over time. The cells that line the respiratory system contain fine, hair-like outgrowths from the cell called cilia. Normally, the cilia of many cells beat rhythmically to move mucus along the airways. When smoke or other irritants are inhaled, the cilia become paralyzed or snap off. When this occurs, the cilia are no longer able to move mucus, and the airways become inflamed, narrowed, and clogged. This leads to difficulty breathing and can progress to the life-threatening disease emphysema.
A mild cough, sometimes called smokers' cough, is usually the first visible sign of chronic bronchitis. Coughing brings up phlegm, although the amount varies considerably from person to person. Wheezing and shortness of breath may accompany the cough. Diagnostic tests show a decrease in lung function. As the disease advances, breathing becomes difficult and activity decreases. The body does not get enough oxygen, leading to changes in the composition of the blood.
Diagnosis
Initial diagnosis of bronchitis is based on observing the patient's symptoms and health history. The physician will listen to the patient's chest with a stethoscope for specific sounds that indicate lung inflammation, such as moist rales and crackling, and wheezing, that indicates airway narrowing. Moist rales is a bubbling sound heard with a stethoscope that is caused by fluid secretion in the bronchial tubes.
A sputum culture may be performed, particularly if the sputum is green or has blood in it, to determine whether a bacterial infection is present and to identify the disease-causing organism so that an appropriate antibiotic can be selected. Normally, the patient will be asked to cough deeply, then spit the material that comes up from the lungs (sputum) into a cup. This sample is then grown in the laboratory to determine which organisms are present. The results are available in two to three days, except for tests for tuberculosis, which can take as long as two months.
Occasionally, in diagnosing a chronic lung disorder, the sample of sputum is collected using a procedure called a bronchoscopy. In this procedure, the patient is given a local anesthetic, and a tube is passed into the airways to collect a sputum sample.
A pulmonary function test is important in diagnosing chronic bronchitis and other variations of COPD. This test uses an instrument called a spirometer to measure the volume of air entering and leaving the lungs. The test is done in the doctor's office and is painless. It involves breathing into the spirometer mouthpiece either normally or forcefully. Volumes less than 80% of the normal values indicate an obstructive lung disease.
To better determine what type of obstructive lung disease a patient has, the doctor may do a chest x ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood tests. An electrocardiogram is an instrument that is used to measure the electrical activity of the heart and is useful in the diagnosis of heart conditions. Other tests may be used to measure how effectively oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in the lungs.
Treatment
Acute bronchitis
When no secondary infection is present, acute bronchitis is treated in the same way as the common cold. Home care includes drinking plenty of fluids, resting, not smoking, increasing moisture in the air with a cool mist humidifier, and taking acetaminophen (Datril, Tylenol, Panadol) for fever and pain. Aspirin should not be given to children because of its association with the serious illness, Reye's syndrome.
Expectorant cough medicines, unlike cough suppressants, do not stop the cough. Instead they are used to thin the mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up. This type of cough medicine may be helpful to individuals suffering from bronchitis. People who are unsure about what type of medications are in over-the-counter cough syrups should ask their pharmacist for an explanation.
If a secondary bacterial infection is present, the infection is treated with an antibiotic. Patients need to take the entire amount of antibiotic prescribed. Stopping the antibiotic early can lead to a return of the infection. Tetracycline or ampicillin are often used to treat adults. Other possibilities include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra) and the newer erythromycin-like drugs, such as azithromycin (Zithromax) and clarithromycin (Biaxin). Children under age eight are usually given amoxicillin (Amoxil, Pentamox, Sumox, Trimox), because tetracycline discolors permanent teeth that have not yet come in.
Chronic bronchitis
The treatment of chronic bronchitis is complex and depends on the stage of chronic bronchitis and whether other health problems are present. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke or polluted air, are an important first step. Controlled exercise performed on a regular basis is also important.
Drug therapy begins with bronchodilators. These drugs relax the muscles of the bronchial tubes and allow increased air flow. They can be taken by mouth or inhaled using a nebulizer. A nebulizer is a device that delivers a regulated flow of medication into the airways. Common bronchodilators include albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil, Apo-Salvent) and metaproterenol (Alupent, Orciprenaline, Metaprel, Dey-Dose).
Anti-inflammatory medications are added to reduce swelling of the airway tissue. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can be taken orally or intravenously. Other steroids are inhaled. Long-term steroid use can have serious side effects. Other drugs, such as ipratropium (Atrovent), are given to reduce the quantity of mucus produced.
As the disease progresses, the patient may need supplemental oxygen. Complications of COPD are many and often require hospitalization in the latter stages of the disease.
Alternative treatment
Alternative practitioners focus on prevention by eating a healthy diet that strengthens the immune system and practicing stress management. Bronchitis can become serious if it progresses to pneumonia, therefore, antibiotics may be required. In addition, however, there are a multitude of botanical and herbal medicines that can be formulated to treat bronchitis. Some examples include inhaling eucalyptus or other essential oils in warm steam. Herbalists recommend a tea made of mullein (Verbascum thapsus), coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara), and anise seed (Pimpinella anisum). Homeopathic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine may also be very useful for bronchitis, and hydrotherapy can contribute to cleaning the chest and stimulating immune response.

What is Cough? - From the Free Dictionary

2008-09-13T00:58:00.000-07:00

Cough
Definition
A cough is a forceful release of air from the lungs that can be heard. Coughing protects the respiratory system by clearing it of irritants and secretions.
Description
While people can generally cough voluntarily, a cough is usually a reflex triggered when an irritant stimulates one or more of the cough receptors found at different points in the respiratory system. These receptors then send a message to the cough center in the brain, which in turn tells the body to cough. A cough begins with a deep breath in, at which point the opening between the vocal cords at the upper part of the larynx (glottis) shuts, trapping the air in the lungs. As the diaphragm and other muscles involved in breathing press against the lungs, the glottis suddenly opens, producing an explosive outflow of air at speeds greater than 100 mi (160 km) per hour.
In normal situations, most people cough once or twice an hour during the day to clear the airway of irritants. However, when the level of irritants in the air is high or when the respiratory system becomes infected, coughing may become frequent and prolonged. It may interfere with exercise or sleep, and it may also cause distress if accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, or breathlessness. In the majority cases, frequent coughing lasts one to two weeks and tapers off as the irritant or infection subsides. If a cough lasts more than three weeks it is considered a chronic cough, and physicians will try to determine a cause beyond an acute infection or irritant.
Coughs are generally described as either dry or productive. A dry cough does not bring up a mixture of mucus, irritants, and other substances from the lungs (sputum), while a productive cough does. In the case of a bacterial infection, the sputum brought up in a productive cough may be greenish, gray, or brown. In the case of an allergy or viral infection it may be clear or white. In the most serious conditions, the sputum may contain blood.
Causes and symptoms
In the majority of cases, coughs are caused by respiratory infections, including:
Environmental pollutants, such as cigarette smoke, dust, or smog, can also cause a cough. In the case of cigarette smokers, the nicotine present in the smoke paralyzes the hairs (cilia) that regularly flush mucus from the respiratory system. The mucus then builds up, forcing the body to remove it by coughing. Post-nasal drip, the irritating trickle of mucus from the nasal passages into the throat caused by allergies or sinusitis, can also result in a cough. Some chronic conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and cystic fibrosis, are characterized in part by a cough. A condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux) can cause coughing, especially when a person is lying down. A cough can also be a side-effect of medications that are administered via an inhaler. It can also be a side-effect of beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors, which are drugs used for treating high blood pressure.
Diagnosis
To determine the cause of a cough, a physician should take an exact medical history and perform an exam. Information regarding the duration of the cough, other symptoms may accompanying it, and environmental factors that may influence it aid the doctor in his or her diagnosis. The appearance of the sputum will also help determine what type of infection, if any, may be involved. The doctor may even observe the sputum microscopically for the presence of bacteria and white blood cells. Chest x rays may help indicate the presence and extent of such infections as pneumonia or tuberculosis. If these actions are not enough to determine the cause of the cough, a bronchoscopy or laryngoscopy may be ordered. These tests use slender tubular instruments to inspect the interior of the bronchi and larynx.
Treatment
Treatment of a cough generally involves addressing the condition causing it. An acute infection such as pneumonia may require antibiotics, an asthma-induced cough may be treated with the use of bronchodialators, or an antihistamine may be administered in the case of an allergy. Physicians prefer not to suppress a productive cough, since it aids the body in clearing the respiratory system of infective agents and irritants. However, cough medicines may be given if the patient cannot rest because of the cough or if the cough is not productive, as is the case with most coughs associated with colds or flu. The two types of drugs used to treat coughs are antitussives and expectorants.

The BEST PRAYER to start your DAY

2008-09-13T00:47:00.000-07:00

Now here is a wonderful prayer, my sister Cindy emailed to me, to start your day the right way.
I like it sooo much that I have printed it for my daily morning prayer. Hope it touches you in the same way that it touched me. Thanks Cindy – I really needed this today!!

" Dear Lord, I thank You for this day,
I thank You for my being able to see
and to hear this morning.
I'm blessed because You are
a forgiving God and
an understanding God.
You have done so much for me
and You keep on blessing me.
Forgive me this day for everything
I have done, said or thought
that was not pleasing to you.I ask now for Your forgiveness.
Please keep me safe
from all danger and harm.
Help me to start this day
with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.
Let me make the best of each and every day
to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind
that I can accept all things.
Let me not whine and whimper
over things I have no control over.And give me the best response
when I'm pushed beyond my limits.I know that when I can't pray,
You listen to my heart.
Continue to use me to do Your will.
Continue to bless me that I may be
a blessing to others.
Keep me strong that I may help the weak...
Keep me uplifted that I may have
words of encouragement for others.
I pray for those that are lost
and can't find their way.

I pray for those that are misjudged
and misunderstood.
I pray for those who
don't know You intimately.
I pray for those that don't believe.But I thank You that I believe
that God changes people and
God changes things.
I pray for all my sisters and brothers.
For each and every family member
in their households.
I pray for peace, love and joy
in their homes; that they are out of debt
and all their needs are met.
I pray that every eye that reads this
knows there is no problem, circumstance,
or situation greater than God.
Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.

I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees or everyone who hears it.
Now repeat this phrase and see how God will touch you.
“God I love you and I need you, please come into my heart.”

Kree - Asthma + Bronchitus - what next??

2008-09-12T23:35:00.000-07:00

My cough started acting up on Sunday morning 7 September (Father’s Day in NZ as well as Kanthan’s 9th year of sobriety). Later that day I had a sore throat and on Monday my neck was stiff and sore. By Tuesday, I was losing was voice, had a blocked nose, sneezing, nausea, no taste and smell – the works! On Wednesday my voice was really bad and every sentence I spoke required great effort. Yes, I was at school all three days – meetings, as usual, only left school 5pm Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday I made a doctor’s appointment (Kaveshan’s advice) for that afternoon – the earliest appointment was 3:45pm. By lunch break I knew I was too sick to come to school Thursday and Friday and emailed the DP. I pushed myself to cope until 2:30pm when school ends, hardly taking a break from teaching/talking all day. By that time my voice was just a squeak and my chest was tight, burning and sore, all the way up to my throat and neck. When I arrived at the surgery, my heart was racing and I was so out of breath that I couldn’t say my name out clearly. Luckily the nurse immediately picked up on the signs and quickly put me on a Ventolin nebulizer. It relieved me quite a bit but by now I was rather anxious – imagine battling to breathe – it feels like you’re dying!! I never realised what Asthmatic sufferers have to deal with, like my sister Julie. I myself have not been asthmatic – however this is the third time in three months that I have experienced severe coughing and wheezing. At my last consultation a month ago, the doctor gave me two inhalers to be used during the wintertime. I wasn’t aware that I was mildly asthmatic. The medication I was given from yesterdays consultation are: Bricanyl Turbuhaler; Pulmicort Turbuhaler; Prednisone; Co-trimoxazole (antibiotic). I really pray that these meds will work soon because my voice has not yet improved, and without a voice I cannot teach. If any of you are asthmatic or can offer advice, it would be a great help.

After 3 days of medication, there was little improvement and on Friday the nausea was worsening, aggravated by the cough, little improvement in my voice and my nose still blocked. Today, Saturday 13th September, I went to another doctor for fear that it could be my thyroid playing up or even pheumonia!! The doctor's diagnosis was Bronchitus as well as Asthma and he changed my antibiotic to Augmentin (which has worked well for me in the past). He also prescribed Otrivin nasal spray which cleared my nose with just one swirt and has so far released loads of phlegm. I have been put off work until Wednesday and need lots of rest. Thanks to all who have emailed and posted Facebook messages on my wall.

. . . REMEMBER ME . . .

2008-07-06T16:14:00.000-07:00

A Poem from our dearly departed:

. . . REMEMBER ME . . .

I never meant to leave you,

Could I have only stayed;

We would be going on in life,

With all the plans we made.

Now all the hopes and dreams we shared,

Are but sweet memories;

For you to tuck inside your heart,

Now when you remember me.

Remember all the good times,

And all the joy we shared;

Remember how you touched my life,

And how I really cared.

Think back on all the laughter,

And wipe away your tears;

You still have many miles to go,

And still have many years.

Don't look back....look forward,

This day is a brand new start;

And as you travel on in life,

You'll take a bit of my heart.

I never meant to leave you,

But still you'll not be alone;

For as long as my love lives in you,

I'll never really be gone.

Sad News - Uncle Frank

2008-06-23T01:14:00.000-07:00

It is with great sadness that we learned about the passing away of our beloved Uncle Frank Thaver on Sunday 22 June 2008. After a month of hospitalisation and about two weeks on the ventilator, his heart stopped shortly after sunrise. The funeral was held in Durban on the same day. Wish I could have been there, it is the hardest thing to be miles away when a loved one moves on. Just a year ago last year, his brother George passed away on 18 May, so we are all deeply saddened to be losing such important people in our family. Uncle Frank will always be remembered for his cheerful and jovial personality. He loved to laugh and make people laugh. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was fortunate to have become a millionaire in his lifetime. He leaves behind his wife Thunga (teenage sweetheart), daughter Desiree and son Wesley, grand-daughter Tia, son-in-law Clive, three brothers, two sisters and all of the Thaver family.

You are in a better place now. We know that God chooses the best first and that you are smiling down on us from heaven. May your soul rest in Heaven's Peace.

A poem that comforts me during this hard time:
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am the song that will never end.
I am the love of family and friend.
I am the child who has come to rest
In the arms of the Father who knows him best.
When you see the sunset fair,
I am the scented evening air.
I am the joy of a task well done.
I am the glow of the setting sun.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!
~ Mary E. Frye ~

Food for the Soul

2008-06-13T03:11:00.000-07:00

Those who revolve in the consciousness of the Divine are safe-guarded.

Didst thou not come naked from thy mother's womb? Didst thou not have thy soul in safety even before thy body's birth? Why art thou then fretful and anxious? One who watched over thee then, watches over thee now; one who loved thee then, loves thee now.
My mind remember this and be still.

[Swami Paramananda, Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers, p. 186]

Prayer for the Sick

2008-06-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

My Uncle Frankie is in hospital for three weeks now. He has undergone surgery but is not making much progress. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and our families as we hope that he will be restored to good health.
Also my niece (my Godchild) Barshni has not been well for the past two weeks, having a high temperature and headaches that doctors could not find the cause of. We are praying for your speedy recovery.

PRAYER FOR THE SICK
Father of goodness and love, hear our prayers for the sick members of our community and for all who are in need. Amid mental and physical suffering may they find consolation in your healing presence. Show your mercy as you close wounds, cure illness, make broken bodies whole and free downcast spirits. May these special people find lasting health and deliverance, and so join us in thanking you for all your gifts. We ask this through the Lord Jesus who healed those who believed. Amen.

Food for the Soul

2008-06-11T12:20:00.001-07:00

O Lord, through Thy Grace may I overcome all egotism, pride and self-willAnd realize that Thou art all in all. I am only an instrument in Thy almighty Hand. Do Thou use my hands and feet, my heart and mind to carry out Thy great plan; And may I never forget Thy vastness and Thy glory.[Swami Paramananda, Book of Daily Thought & Prayers, p185]

Room 8 Soccer Stars

2008-06-10T01:14:00.000-07:00

Soccer World Cup Update:
In term 2 and term 3 Kelvin Road School children are participating in its own Soccer World Cup.
More to follow...

Graduation - Victoria University of Wellington

2008-05-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Kanthan and I took a one hour flight to Wellington on Tuesday 13th May and spent two nights in the wonderful windy city. To my surprise, I didn't feel it as cold there as it was in Auckland this past week. On Wednesday morning we had a scrumptious hotel breakfast and then set off on foot to collect my graduation gown. We started off walking in the opposite direction to where we were going and fortunately a courier guy pointed us on the right path. We made our way up a steep hill with over one hundred steps to climb into the street above leading to Kelburn Parade. It was an arduous climb which must have taken about fifteen minutes what with all the stops I made after climbing each flight of steps. We then staggered another twenty minutes until we reached Murphy Building and collected my graduation gown, hood and trencher. I refused to walk back so we grabbed a taxi to the Law School at Lambton Quay for the graduates street parade. It was a new and exciting experience for me but I only wish I could have had more family and friends there to share in my joy like the rest of the graduates. The parade started at 12 noon and finished around 12:45 in time for ceremony 1 starting at 1pm. Luckily my ceremony was at 6pm that evening which gave us time to enjoy a delicious lunch at an Irish restaurant before heading back to the hotel for a two hour nap. With all that walking, it was a well deserved and refreshing sleep before getting dressed for the ceremony. We took the taxi to the Michael Fowler Centre at 5:25 pm and arrived there on time at 5:30pm. All the graduands looked wonderful, wearing hoods and gowns appropriate to their degree, and carrying their trenchers. We lined up according to our marshalling numbers for an unrehearsed ceremony. When we walked into the dark hall, a Maori Kapa Haka group was rendering some beautiful waita ringa. After singing the national anthem and some speeches we were capped. It was a fantastic ceremony and I couldn't help but feel so proud of my achievement. I remembered my late Dad and my mum who were at my first graduation at Springfield College twenty years ago in 1988 and gave thanks to them for my journey - not forgetting the Grace of God.

After the graduation there was a reception for everybody. Kanthan and I walked back to the hotel so I could change out of my sari and we set off for dinner.

We slept in on Thursday morning until 9am and after breakfast we spent the rest of the day at Te Papa Museum, then had a light lunch before flying back to Auckland at 4:30pm.

All in all, a fantastic and memorable graduation experience.

Elim School River Tragedy

2008-04-22T01:46:00.000-07:00

New Zealand weeps over the tragic drowning of students and a teacher in the Mangatepopo River on 15 April. Six students and one teacher have died after being swept away on the Mangatepopo River near Turangi. It is reported that a flash flood swept down the river.
The students were from Elim Christian College in Howick, Auckland.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family & friends of these seven courageous people. May their souls rest in Heaven's Peace.

Read more

Our Celebrations

2008-04-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

On 18 March Kanthan celebrated his 7th year of being a non-smoker - what a difference this has made to our lives. I wish every smoker reading this 'Good Luck' in kicking this stinking habit - do it for the people you love, if not for yourself.
On 31st March Kanthan & I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary, we thank God for every new year He gives us together.
Two days after our anniversary was Thanusha's sweet 16th birthday - can't believe that our baby girl is growing up so fast! Four days after Thanusha's birthday was Kaveshan's 13th birthday - at last he is a teenager although he has been acting like one for the past three years!
And all these celebrations are only through the Grace of God, to Whom we give our humble gratitude every day. Thank you GOD.
Birthday Pics

Kree's health

2008-04-22T00:51:00.000-07:00

If you were wondering why I have not been in touch for most of this year, it was because of my terrible health. In February, I was surprised when the doctor told me that my blood pressure was 200/90 and I was put on pressure tablets again after 8 years. The Inhibace tablets prescribed caused a terrible cough and after one month my pressure was still high. My tablets were changed and the new pressure pills Felo 5er caused severe headaches. After 10 days I couldn't stand it and returned to the doctor for the third time. My pressure was 180/100 and I was worrying about my continuous periods. The doc prescribed Ferrograd for the anaemia, Provera to stop the periods and doubled the Thyroxin for my underactive thyroid. He didn't think there was any serious concern saying that I was just overly anxious and even suggested me getting a second opinion when he noticed that I was not too happy with his diagnosis.
I decided to change to a female doctor and on my first visit to her, she changed my pressure tablet to Cozaar (which is the one I had been taking in SA about 8 years ago). The tablet was miraculous and it decreased my pressure and I have not had a headache for the past two weeks. Since February I have undergone bloodtests four times, fortunately, we do not pay for diagnostic tests in NZ. On my second visit to my new GP on Monday (which makes that the 5th doctors visit in two months) I was told that I have Helicobacter Pylori infection of my stomach lining! It appears that around 75% of the world's population have this infection and 50% of patients diagnosed with stomach cancer have it! Well that means more medication for me so today I started on a triple pack 14 day treatment including Losec and antibiotics - hope it works. The doc has also booked me down for an ultrasound as my periods have not stopped in 34 days! I will be on the waiting list for 6 - 8 weeks before I am given a date for the ultrasound - the price to pay for using public health. If the ultrasound confirms a recurrence of Fibroids which I've had 10 years ago, then the doc suggests undergoing a hysterectomy. So there - now you know what I've been up to since I returned from my holiday overseas. So what's your excuse for not keeping in touch?

Food for the Soul

2008-03-30T01:30:00.000-07:00

When we are impatient we throw away our opportunities.

Far have I travelled, Long have I struggled, Following the impulses of my restless will. Seeking! Seeking! Seeking! In quest of happiness I sought through life's mansion, But happiness I found not there. I found happiness nowhere till my self will was lost in His Will.

The real sign of a spiritually minded person is his silent, tolerant, patient attitude. He attains his end because he does not interfere with the higher plan. He moves with the higher forces. He is always in harmony with the Divine Will. Anger, impatience, calculation, quarelling and disputes; this is what we find in the world. Those who have taken up the spiritual life cannot afford to indulge in such things.

O Lord, grant unto me calmness of spirit and serenity of heart,Shield me from the entanglements of my lower nature.Help me to seek Thee with perseverence and unswerving consecration.May I never tire in my search after TheeOr turn aside and forget Thee.[Swami Paramananda, Book of Daily Thoughts & Prayers, p. 102]

Back from my holiday to South Africa & Thailand

2008-01-25T23:10:00.000-08:00

Hi, how are you? I am sooo happy to be back in my home sweeeeet home in Papakura, Auckland. There is no place like New Zealand! We had a fantastic time in South Africa, visiting family & friends in Middelburg & Durban...it was an emotional rollercoaster ride, one minute we were so happy to be reunited with people, the next minute sad to say farewell, wondering when our paths will cross again! The weather was unbearably hot and humid, often a sticky 35 degrees! After two weeks we got really exhausted from the heat and all the driving and visiting. The last four days was spent in Thailand - we loved the beautiful temples in Bangkok and the shopping was great...so great that we had to buy two extra hand luggage bags and paid an extra $500 for overweight luggage - bugger! Will upload some of the 2000 digital photos I have so check my album for these.The weather in Auckland is to die for - such magnificent perfect summer days :-)Have a safe and happy 2008 - love & laughter always.
**Kree**

Food for the Soul

2007-11-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

November 13th
Remember that complete surrender alone makes us clear channels for the Supreme.

Since Thou hast given me refuge and taken me into Thy safe-keeping I have lost all fear.
My long night of anxious waking is forever ended.
I sit now with contentment in my heart; I walk with free spirit,
And I sleep with surrender in my soul.

We need Divine guidance from within. There are two wills, God's will and self-will; both are active. The foolish man chooses self-will; the wise man chooses God's will, because he does not feel safe to be separated from God and His guidance. This is wisdom, but this wisdom cannot be imposed. Life has its culmination when we learn to have a true sense of God as supreme Doer. When we acquire spiritual surrender, we rise above all troubles.

I am only an instrument in Thy Hands, O Lord;
Make me an efficient instrument.
Help me never to forget that Thou art behind me in every act.
Take from me all egotism and self-importance;
May I always be a humble instrument, wholly submissive to Thy Will.

[Swami Paramananda, Book of Daily Thoughts & Prayers, p. 352]

Birthday Wishes From Shania Vala

2007-11-07T18:22:00.002-08:00

With so much sadness in my life this year, being such a traumatic week, with the death of two close friends, I felt so blessed to receive tonnes of wonderful birthday messages and Diwali greetings. Thank you ALL for thinking about me. I would like to share the email greetings below sent by my wonderful friend Shania and her Mum, Saras, from Middelburg, SA. Your kind words really touched my heart - and they are deeply cherished. THANK YOU SO MUCH & SAI BLESSINGS to you and the family.

Hi Kree

"It’s Your birthday...and we thinking how glad we arethat You were born.You have given us so much-supported us, encouraged us,cared for us; We didn't even need to ask.We celebrate Your wonderful self!We are in awe of Your boundless generosity,Your infinite kindness-that gentle inner glowthat You so freely use to warm our lives.Your birthday is as much a celebration for usas it is for You, maybe even more…and We wish for You the Best of Birthdays,the Best One Ever.May each birthday be better than the last.Most of all, We hope You will always beAs happy as You have made us.

Lots & Lots of Love
Saras. Shania, Kapesh & Lesshika

Jay Naidoo - Sudden Death

2007-11-07T18:22:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, 7th November, was my 41st birthday - a birthday I will never forget.

I left school for two hours to attend the funeral of my late teacher, Jay Balbharan at Manukau Gardens. What a dignified, peaceful but sad day, with his beloved family and so many friends present. Three quarters of the people must have been teachers, as Jay was so well liked and respected. Everyone was overcome with grief for the loss of such a special person who was robbed of life.

But more sad news was to arrive later that same evening. I got a phonecall that our good friend, had had a massive and fatal heart attack while mowing the lawn. His name is Jay Naidoo, he was 50 years old, his wife is a teacher and they belong to the same spiritual group as the late Jai Balbharan - such coincidences. Only minutes before, he and his family were planning his daughter's birthday party. It is shocking news to hear that a fit and happy man, with no signs of illness, could die so suddenly, especially after we had all spoken to him at Jay Balbharan's funeral only hours earlier!

I will always remember Jay since it was because of him and his other friends that we chose to live in Papakura. When we immigrated to New Zealand, in the first week of arriving in Papakura, Jay & Kay visited us every night to see how we were settling in and Jay continued to phone me everyday in that first month. Jay was a caring friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him, a devoted dad to Keshnee and Rasika and an inseparable doting husband to Kay. The shock of his death and emptiness he leaves behind will be hard to fill.

Jay's funeral will take place tomorrow, Saturday 9th November from the family home in Rushgreen Place, Pahurehure (Papakura, Auckland) from 10:30am - 2:30pm, and then at the Manukau Memorial Gardens from 3pm - 4pm.

My heartfelt sympathies to the family as they come to terms with this sudden and devastating loss. God, grant us understanding, acceptance and faith always. May Jay's soul rest in heaven's peace.

On a brighter note, yesterday/today is Diwali but we are not celebrating due to the passing away of my father-in-law, Charles Vandayar and my Uncle George this year. God's richest blessings to all who celebrated Diwali - wishing you light, love and happiness always.

Kree

"You must be willing to sacrifice human friendship to gain Divine friendship."
[Swami Paramananda, Book of Daily Thoughts & Prayers, p. 348]

Sad News - Jai Balbharan Passed Away

2007-11-04T22:07:00.000-08:00

Monday, 05 November 2007

Those who knew an ex-teacher of Mansell Intermediate School (Auckland), Jai Balbharan, will be sad to know that he passed away today. I got the text message at assembly this morning; fortunately I visited Jai at Auckland hospital yesterday.
Jai was an energetic and wonderful person, very health conscious, a keen golfer and a dedicated teacher.
Jai leaves behind his three children and wife Devi, (who was my form teacher in Std 7).

The funeral will take place this Wednesday 7th November (my birthday) at 11:00 - 12:00 at the Manukau Memorial Gardens.

May Jai's soul rest in heaven’s peace.

OM SHANTI

Praying for Jai Balbharan

2007-11-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

I am sad to inform you that my Afrikaans teacher from Risecliff Secondary, Jai Balbharan, who taught there from 1981 - 1997, is in Auckland Hospital, taking his last few breaths. Jai had an haermorrage on 25th Oct 2007, just 3 days before his 50th birthday. He has not regained consciousness since then and has been taken off oxygen support and drips on Wednesday, 31st Oct.
Last year August Kanthan had successful surgery to repair his mitral valve and three months later Jai underwent the same surgery but his valve was replaced with a metal valve. There was infection in the valve and due to complications with warfarin medication, doctors were unable to operate. I visited Jai in hospital today and it is just a matter of time before he is called to rest. Please keep Jai and his family in your prayers.

If you know of anyone from Risecliff Secondary, please invite them to join my group on Facebook.
Read more about heart valve repair/replacement.

South Africa - Taxi's reign of terror...

2007-10-29T01:00:00.000-07:00

"Durban - A white taxi's reign of terror in Hillcrest that claimed a young soccer star's life on Thursday night continued on Friday when a third motorist was shot at, but managed to get away...."

Join the Facebook Group and offer your sympathies to the Boreham family.

Food for the Soul

2007-10-27T04:03:00.000-07:00

Thought for the Day ~ October 27th
"We must give up, not because we are dejected or battered. We must give up because there has come a certain ripening within.

The steady-minded by giving up all attachments for the fruits of action, obtains peace, born of steadfastness. The unsteady being attached to fruits through desire, is ever bound by action. (Bhagavad-Gita)

The great secret of life is to learn to maintain an even tenor in the midst of all things. Life as a rule does not run evenly. It has many ups and downs. It has many changes. But those who have found the way of wisdom, have learned how to maintain evenness in spite of all the unnevenesses which circumstances offer. We do not accomplish this by calculation or by any material means. We accomplish it by going within and attaining inner tranquility.

O Thou who art One and All-abiding, I offer up my thoughts , words and actions unto Thee. Grant that each act of the day may be an act of devotion. Thou art the source of my being; I turn to Thee with wholehearted love and trust. In Thee alone do I find rest and satisfaction. From Thee alone can I draw life and strength."

(Swami Paramananda - Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers)

Top 5 Most Dangerous Countries in the World

2007-10-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

The email from Kas made me do my own google search and this is what I found today from:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/159175/top_5_most_dangerous_countries_in_the.html?page=2

2. South Africa. The rich class in South Africa has moved into gated communities, creating a schism between classes and evidently races, one which was theoretically abolished during the apartheid. It is ranked first in rapes per capita amongst the whole world and has a notorious record for car hijacking. The problem is so severe, that women are allowed to speed through red lights to avoid being car hijacked, or worse. One of its capitals, Johannesburg, is the most dangerous, with almost all middle-class and high-class families carrying weapons merely for protection. Peter Murgatroyd, resident of Cape Town, says "As a 30 year old born in SA spending most of my life here, I have stab wounds in my back, a few times I've had a gun shoved in my face, my car and house broken several times and I purchased another 'security' product this week. Enough said." (BBC.com) South Africa averages 50 murders a day in a nation of 47 million.

Email from Kas - Crime Update in South Africa

2007-10-07T16:43:00.000-07:00

See below an email I received from Kas & Lenny this morning regarding the crime stats in South Africa.

Date: Sun, 7 Oct 2007 13:33:42 -0700 (PDT) Subject: Info on SA
Hi there

Please see attached the latest CRIME stats on SA. We feel the need to share with you that are planning to relocate to or from SA. We are been compared to the countries at war, this is so sad. What future does our kids have here. Well I have been back for less than a week and have had 3 people close to us either mugged or hijacked this week. We have had an attempted break in on sat nite. This is very scary to feel unsafe in your own home. We don't want to scare you but this is the truth about our beautiful country that we love so much. Our families live here.We are so ready to leave for a free and safe life for our precious little girl. Yes we pray for God's protection, but he gives us wisdom to use accordingly. Sorry if we sound negitive but we need to share this with you our loved ones, that you can feel and know what we feel and go thru daily living here in fear and scared for the safety of our children, parents and our own lives.

God Bless

Regards
Kas & Len
Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa

Top 5 most dangerous countries in the World

2007-10-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

2. South Africa. The rich class in South Africa has moved into gated communities, creating a schism between classes and evidently races, one which was theoretically abolished during the apartheid. It is ranked first in rapes per capita amongst the whole world and has a notorious record for car hijacking. The problem is so severe, that women are allowed to speed through red lights to avoid being car hijacked, or worse. One of its capitals, Johannesburg, is the most dangerous, with almost all middle-class and high-class families carrying weapons merely for protection. Peter Murgatroyd, resident of Cape Town, says "As a 30 year old born in SA spending most of my life here, I have stab wounds in my back, a few times I've had a gun shoved in my face, my car and house broken several times and I purchased another 'security' product this week. Enough said." (BBC.com) South Africa averages 50 murders a day in a nation of 47 million.

Kree's Reflections on Ulearn07 Conference

2007-10-07T02:55:00.000-07:00

Sunday 7th October 2007
Hi All,
Hope you have all had a good break and are feeling refreshed for the 4th and final term – only 79 days to Christmas :-)
I spent the first week of my holidays entertaining visitors from South Africa – it was wonderful catching up with two of my neighbours from Durban, who I have known since the age of four. The second week kept me busy with spring-cleaning and the last three days I was fortunate to attend the Ulearn07 conference at Sky City. What a fabulous conference it was with three inspiring keynote-speakers and some amazing NZ teacher/presenters.
I have learned so much and by the last day I was on overload. The biggest message for me was about networking, collaborating and connecting with others in order to prepare our students as lifelong learners of the 21st century.
I have learned that one of the aims of teaching is to develop and extend students' thinking and learning by catering for pupils’ individual learning styles, multiple intelligences and providing meaningful assessment which informs learning. Computers and the Internet has revolutionized the world we live, learn and teach in. There are numerous exciting programmes, tools and software for teachers and students that can make learning fun. ‘Many computer applications have been developed explicitly to engage learners in critical thinking.’ ‘…computers should be used as tools to help learners build knowledge…’ If teachers have an attitude of: ‘Please don’t give me any more information; I already know what I think!’ (Longworth, 2003) then I believe today’s classroom is not the place for them because learning is a lifelong process and it is forever changing. According to Tony Ryan, in this Information Age of the 21st century, computers are rapidly overtaking many of our analytical functions. Occupations for future generations will probably require a strong imaginative and personal component that computers are not capable of doing. It is therefore important to integrate a variety of creative teaching strategies into our classroom practice in order to prepare students for success in their learning as well as in their uncertain future.

Below are some links that you may find useful:

Keynote speakers
http://blog.core-ed.net/derek/

Conference Photos
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ulearn/

Kree’s Ulearn Pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kreeraman/

Kree’s twitter
http://twitter.com/kree4sai

Kree’s favourites/bookmarks
http://del.icio.us/kree12

Ewan McIntosh’s Blog
http://edu.blogs.com/

http://newzealand.takingitglobal.org/

Tonnes of valuable resources
http://www.tki.org.nz/e/tki/

Evolution of Communication
http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/evolution_of_communication.php

http://aucklandregion.takingitglobal.org/connections/stories/story.html?MemberID=25064

Free Books on the Internet
http://users.erols.com/jonwill/freebooks.htm

http://www.linkedin.com/home?trk=tab_h

Kree Raman
Room 12 Teacher
Kelvin Road School

Mrs Raman's Delicious Tags

2007-10-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Kas & Regina in NZ

2007-10-01T12:38:00.001-07:00

It was really cool having my childhood neighbours visiting in Auckland for a month. Kasturi & Aunty Regina (who is still Amma's neighbour), arrived in Auckland 29th August and returned to Johannesburg/Durban on 1st October. Kas and I have known each other just under 4 decades, and it was wonderful sharing our childhood memories after all these years. Kas had 3 job interviews while she was on holiday as Lenny and her are serious about relocating to New Zealand. Through God's Grace, we shall see them back in Auckland early next year.

Kree is on School Holiday

2007-09-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

So far these holidays have been good compared to the drama we had during the last holidays :(
Remember Kanthan's Dad had a stroke on July 3rd and passed away on the 11th July? It is really sad when you lose someone close and you're miles away. Fortunately Kanthan made it to visit Middelburg and see his dad in hospital.

Now it's week 2 of the school holidays and I'm enjoying spending my sparetime at the computer in between washing curtains and growling at the kids. It's been a wet day since yesterday so no chance of going outdoors today. We had a lovely visit to Kalay and Segie's house in Hamilton yesterday and rushed back to Auckland to say farewell to Kasturi and Aunty Regina who were flying back to SA this morning. I have one more day to rest, then I shall be attending a 3 day ICT conference "Ulearn '07" at Sky Towers, Auckland City from 3rd - 5th October.
School reopens next Monday 8th October for the 4th and final term of 11 weeks.
Looking forward to visiting South Africa after 5 years this Xmas. Hope to catch you then!

http://centre4.interact.ac.nz/spaces/space.php?space_key=12482

What has Kree been up?

2007-09-30T18:46:00.001-07:00

I must apologise for not keeping in touch as often as I could this year. It is proving to be quite a challenging year for me - what with studying after 22 years, it's not easy! I am presently doing a Bachelor of Education Degree in Teaching through Victoria University of Wellington. When I first started teaching in NZ five and a half years ago, it felt as if I had dropped the NZ Curriculum puzzle and I have been struggling to grasp the curriculum ever since. This BEd course is helping me put those puzzle pieces together, making teaching & learning an exciting and stimulating challenge. So far I have passed 4 assignments, and just handed in my 5th assignment on Friday - woohoo : )
I have one more assignment to do next term and then I shall compile my teaching portfolio due 2nd December.
If you don't hear from me - you know why!
Keep me in your prayers.

Introduction - Welcome to Kree's Blog

2007-09-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hi/Kia Ora/Vannakum from Auckland, New Zealand.

My name is Kree Raman Vandayar.

I was born in South Africa and now living in New Zealand since 2002. I am a primary school teacher since 1989. I have a wonderful husband Kanthan (JT) and two great kids Thanusha & Kaveshan.

Welcome to my blog - where you will find news about me, my family, inspirations or anything that touches my heart and moves my soul.

Love, Faith & Hope always. Kree

Kree's Blog

Private Tutor

Room 2 Stars practising Waka Waka

Prayer for Denisha Chetty

Food for the Soul

IHC Volunteers Make a Difference

Volunteer Awareness Week 21 June 2010

***MATARIKI**** Happy Maori New Year - New Moon 14 June 2010

Happy FIFA World Cup 2010

I am torn between two of my favourite countries i.e. South Africa & New Zealand. Viva Bafana Bafana & the All Whites :)))

Dream BIG! Reach for the Stars…

The Most Efficient System for Day to Day Relief Teaching

Poem for my Teacher by Kaiya

Volunteer 4 IHC

Room 2 Stars at the Pool

Anzac Day 25 April 2010

March/April Updates

Thaipusam Kavadi at Auckland Sri Ganesh Temple, Papakura

Inaugural Speech, President Nelson Mandela

Cinnamon and Honey

Kree’s Reunion with Staff & Students from Kelvin Road School

Duke in Kaveshan's bed

National Standards

Happy Diwali 2009

Langada News

52 Character Building Thoughts for Children

By Leah Davies, M.Ed.

Teacher's Farewell Message

WorldSkills - New Zealand

Train Trip 17 August 2009

Book of Daily Thoughts and Prayers

Job of my Dreams

STS-127 Answers Room 8's question from Space

Kree witnesses a gorgeous morning Sky - 20 July 2009

Global Gateway Connection

Every task should be for the good of many...

Kree's Tribute to Michael Jackson (1958 - 2009)

9 years Vegetarian

Staff Social - Ten Pin Bowling - Friday 5 June '09

The sun on my way to school 3rd June '09

Mobile Pics of the Sun on my way to school 2 June '09 at 7:38am

Eulogy to a beloved Cat, Parsley - R.I.P

"Our Precious Parsley"

by Nalini Manikkam (Whangarei, NZ)

Birthday blessings for Arnold Chetty by Sheila 6 June 2009

Kree observes Nirjali Ekadashi 3rd June - 4th June 2009

Extraordinary Sun Meditation - Monday, June 1st 2009

Happy Birthday Kanthan

Kanthan, Happy Birthday Song

Sai Bhajan - Kaliyuga Avathara

NASA Image Gallery

Mrs Raman's Coolkids Blog

Duke - 5 months - Drop it!

Duke - 5 months - Catch!

Duke - 4 months old - Learning to catch!

Duke - 3 months old

Duke - 8 weeks old

Duke - first day at home

**Deepavali… from Darkness to light**

Introducing DUKE - German Shepherd X

What is Pneumonia - From the Free Dictionary

Shortness of Breath - From the Free Dictionary

What is Asthma - From the Free Dictionary

What is Bronchitus - From the Free Dictionary

What is Cough? - From the Free Dictionary

The BEST PRAYER to start your DAY

Kree - Asthma + Bronchitus - what next??

. . . REMEMBER ME . . .

Sad News - Uncle Frank

Food for the Soul

Prayer for the Sick

Food for the Soul

Room 8 Soccer Stars

Graduation - Victoria University of Wellington

Elim School River Tragedy

Our Celebrations

Kree's health

Food for the Soul

Back from my holiday to South Africa & Thailand

Food for the Soul

*MATARIKI** Happy Maori New Year - New Moon 14 June 2010

I am torn between two of my favourite countries i.e. South Africa & New Zealand.
Viva Bafana Bafana & the All Whites :)))

Deepavali… from Darkness to light