Ate's Amazing Adventures: Supermarket

Sa supermarket:

Me: "Ate, pumili ka na ng toothpaste mo."

Ate: "Eto na lang, Madam. Sumasakit ngipin ko sa toothpaste nyo e."

Me (deadma muna): "Kumuha ka na rin ng sabon mo."

Ate: "Oo nga, Madam. Nangangati ako sa sabon nyo e."

Me (nagpipigil): "Eh shampoo?"

Ate: "Oo, Madam. Nakaka-dry ng buhok yung shampoo nyo."

Grrrr!!!

upon first looking into Lin Tianmiao

When I was in Rome I took a class on modern art taught by an independent curator named Shara Wasserman. The class wasn’t really about modern art; it was so much more. We did cover the artists from the end of the futurist period, past arte povera and up to present day. We took our first field trip to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Arte Moderna (GNAM). GNAM was one of the most poorly laid out museums that I have ever visited. The lighting appeared to have been designed by an office manager, with evenly dispersed rows of spotlights that paid no attention to the art on the walls. The Klimt piece was awkwardly hung in a dark corner while the lights drew your eye to the floor.

But back to the class. Shara Wasserman provided the window and a flashlight into Rome’s contemporary art world. She was a champion of the local talent and was very much appreciated because Italy is not a hospitable place to be an artist unless you are a 400 year old zombie. Most of the talented artists moved to New York or at least to Berlin and London. The artists who stayed in Italy had to compete with centuries old marble antiquities that littered the Centro Storico. They were largely ignored by the millions of visitors who lined up for hours to gaze at the Vatican’s collections of classic art.

In 2007 Zaha Hadid had yet to complete the MAXXI (Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI Secolo) so the MACRO (Museo D’Arte Contemporanea Roma) was my only vehicle to view anything recent until I crossed paths with Shara. My favorite part of the class was when we would hop on a bus and travel to a studio or art enclave to visit an artist. We also were invited to the foreign academies to meet the fellows’ residents; I often pondered the stark differences between Rome’s struggling local artists and the sponsored visiting artists who lived in the fabulous academy grounds.

My second favorite part of the class was when Shara led discussions on the art market. I would sit in awe listening to the artists in the class debate the roles of gallerists, curators, artists and patrons. Everyone had a differing opinion about money and the avant-garde. Twenty years and millions of dollars later were the Young British Artists still transgressive?

I remember listening to Shara talk to us about a Venetian artist. Upon a second look at his painting I saw things that I had missed- how his brush strokes were fluid like water in a lagoon and the soft reflection of a purple hued sunset upon the objects. I wish that I could meet a Shara Wasserman in Hong Kong. This weekend as I visited ART HK 11 I thought about how much I would have liked to have my own art Sherpa to steer me through the labyrinth of compelling, inspiring and titillating works and enrich me with the back stories and biographies.

Potter Puppet Pals: The Mysterious Ticking Noise

Kirov's addicted to this...I find it kinda cute. :)

Treatment For Ovarian Cysts

Ovaries as such are female reproductive glands; they are located in the pelvic region. A pair which is located on each side of the uterus, the size as such is of that of an almond which produces eggs and other related hormones in the body. Ovaries as one of the important glands are known for the control it has over certain functions like body hair, shape and also breasts. The menstrual cycle as such is also counted well with the help of the ovaries. The step ahead is ovaries cysts. They are in a sac like thing filled with fluid.

There are however different kinds of cysts like the functional cysts that are the common ones to occur. There is also the follicular cyst which occurs only in the menstrual stage and more so because it fails to release the egg. But the part about this cyst is that it disappears in the span of days or maximum three months. The one type of cysts by name polycystic ovarian syndrome is been heard of quite a bit these days. The condition as such comes into the scene where there are multiple cysts in not just one but both the ovaries as such. All this for a person who hasn't heard of it might come across to be very scary. But irrespective of not being one of those many women out there, a basic level of information is required as it helps you understand the situation better and more so look in for early symptoms in and around you. Getting to know about this in the initial stage is a lot more helpful when compared otherwise. The fact that there is treatment for ovarian cyst available makes one blessed.


The first thing you need to know about ovarian cyst treatment is the symptoms. A lot is made easier when you know what can cause it. The symptoms as such are common recurring ones, may be hard to square it down to a condition called ovarian cyst. But the sense clarity is build when enough information is in hand. The ovarian cyst symptoms are as follows:
The blood tissues might get affected leading to bleeding.
The bleeding might be excessive and painful at the time of menstruation.
Headache.
Stretching of the body.
Weight gain.
Hair growth.
Pain in the pelvic region.

If the pain in the pelvic region is accompanied with vomiting and fever then it becomes really important to visit the doctor soon. The doctor then diagnosis this condition, the diagnosis is done with the help of an ultrasound where in a clear picture comes in so that the actual size and the number of cysts can be detected. This is important because the doctor needs to get a fair idea about the whole condition, without which the treatment plan cannot be sketched down.

Coming to treatment, the doctor holds the charge of it. With the least number of cysts and in the smallest possible size, the condition can be brought to normalcy. With birth control pills, the menstrual cycle that was initially disturbed comes back to normal. There are a lot of people who wish to go by natural methods to get rid of it, by taking in certain fruits and vegetables and excess water.

The one thing that is taken as a major step and a last resort is when the cysts are too large and can only be removed through surgery. The cyst ovary as such can be removed through laparoscopy. Sometimes ovary cyst removal remains the only option to go with. Learn more at Ovarian Cyst Treatment Site
I finally discovered a way that naturally helped me shrink my ovarian cyst and eventually I was able to eliminate it without surgery or heavy medication. And now I’m sharing the knowledge I gained with all of you.

Jejefone

Bulaklak na lang,

pwede nyo na akong paglamayan.

Yan ang sigaw ng kawawang celfone ko bago sya tuluyang kunin ni Lord. 

Actually, kay Kamote ang jologs na celfone na yan.  Nagkataon lang na nauna nang namaalam ang Nokia 7650 ko kaya napilitan akong i-sequester kay Kamote ang celfone nya para may magamit akong pang text at tawag kay Ser.
At ngayon, pati ang jejefone na yan ay wala na ring silbi. 

Jujuju! (Huhuhu!)

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Tostadong Itlog

Ate: "Madam, anong gusto nyong luto sa itlog pang-agahan?"

Me: "Prito lang, yung tostado yung puti ha."
Ate: "Okay, Madam."

Makalipas ang ilang minuto, tinawag na ako ni Ate para kumain. Nauna syang pumwesto sa dining table at nag-umpisang kumain.  Sumunod na rin ako.
Kukuha na sana ako ng ulam nang mapansin ko ang itsura itlog na nakahain.

Me: "Hmmm...hindi mo ginawang tostado yung itlog?"

Ate: "Ay, napagpalit ko ata, Madam. Eto yung sa inyo," sabay alok sa akin ng itlog na para sana sa akin pero nabawasan na nya.

Ang aga ni Ate mang-good time...

Crispy Kangkong

Wala na akong maisip na ibang luto para sa paborito ni Ser na kangkong, kaya’t sinubukan ko ang recipe ng “Crispy Kangkong” para sa aming pananghalian.  Kung tutuusin, madali lang naman gawin.  Ang naging challenge lang ay ang pag-aayos ng dahon sa kawali para hindi tumiklop o kumuluntoy ang mga ito.  Dahil kulang na ako sa oras, hindi ko na ito naayos ng husto.  Hindi man naging maganda ang presentation, masarap pa rin naman ang kinalabasan nito.

MGA SANGKAP:

Kangkong – 1 tali

Itlog – 1, binati

Tubig – 1 tasa, malamig

Asin – ½ kutsarita

Paminta – ¼ kutsarita

Cornstarch – 1 ½ tasa

½ cup all-purpose flour

cooking oil


PROSESO:

• Tanggalin ang mga dahon ng kangkong at hugasan.  Itabi ang mga tangkay para magamit sa ibang lutuin tulad ng sinigang. 


• Paghaluin ang itlog, tubig, cornstarch, flour, asin at paminta sa isang mangkok.  Ilagay ang dahon ng kangkong sa pinaghalong mga rekado at siguruhing nalublob ng husto ang mga dahon at pantay ang coating nito.


• Iprito ang mga dahon sa kawali hanggang maging malutong at golden brown ang mga ito.  Isala pagkatapos upang matanggal ang mantikang sinipsip nito.


• Maaaring gamitan ng mayonnaise, ketchup o sukang pinakurat bilang sawsawan.

Jejemom?

Napagalitan ko si Kirov. 

Sabihin ba namang: 

"Mama jeje!" ;D

treasures from the Wanchai market

 While perusing the market I came across a fruit that I had never seen before.  Actually, I have seen this before in the form of decorative bead work but never as an actual, edible object.  For HKG$15 per basket the price was right.  No one in my office knew what the fruit was but later in the evening my mainland friends knew exactly what the fruit was; they just didn't know the name.  Another friend thought that he had seen the fruit growing in a tree along the dragon's back.

SB thinks that it tastes like a tart strawberry.  I detect some plum also.  Does anyone out there know the name?

Pepper and Onion Smothered Chicken

Mahirap mag-isip ng putahe kaya naghanap na naman ako ng recipe online.  Ito ang nakita kong putahe para sa manok:  Pepper and Onion Smothered Chicken, with a "Happinay twist", as usual.  :)


Narito ang recipe para sa mga gustong sumubok ng putaheng ito:

MGA SANGKAP:

1. suka - 6 kutsara


2. manok - 1/2 kilo


3. cooking oil - 3 kutsara


4. sibuyas - 2 piraso, hiniwa ng maninipis


5. Knorr chicken cubes - 1 piraso


6. all-purpose flour - 1 kutsara


7. carrot - 1 piraso, hiniwa ng maninipis na pahaba


8. red bell pepper - 1 piraso, hiniwa ng maninipis na pahaba

PROSESO:

1. Sa isang mangkok, i-marinate ang manok sa suka at isantabi sa loob ng 5 minuto.


2. Kapag handa na ang manok, maginit ng mantika sa isang kawali at ilagay ito.  Itabi ang marinade na suka.  Lutuin ng limang minuto ang manok, baliktarin at lutuin din ang kabilang bahagi ng limang minuto.  Sa bahaging ito ko isiningit ang aking secret ingredient para sa mas kaaya-ayang lasa (mag-iwan ng komento para malaman ang secret ingredient ni Happinay).  I-ahon ang manok at itabi.


3. Sa mantikang pinaglutuan ng manok, lutuin ang sibuyas hanggang maging "brown" ang kulay.  Idagdag ang flour, carrot, bell pepper at ang natirang marinade na suka.  Lutuin hanggang maging "caramelized" ang sibuyas at bell pepper (mga 10 minuto).


4. I-ahon ang manok, ilagay sa isang plato at isapaw ang mga nilutong gulay sa ibabaw ng manok.

Ang putaheng ito ay maaring ihain sa 4 na tao.

Happy eating! :)

Vavagina monologue:

Suggestion ni Ser na gamitin din ang recipe na ito sa isdang Lapu-Lapu.  Subukan ko next time.

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Can Opener

Ate: "May can opener kayo, Madam?"
Me: "Di ba ginamit mo lang nung isang araw?"

Ate: "Ay, oo nga pala no?"

Nuninuninuninu...

A Light in the Basket

Sharing a word with Rev. Ashton Brooks immediately after service.
Photo: Rosina Pulhmann

At the start of the Equal Exchange Interfaith Fair Trade Cocoa trip to the Dominican Republic, in which I participated for UMCOR, one of our early stops was an optional visit to the Cathedral Church of the Epiphany, the Union Church of Santo Domingo.

The Rev. Ashton Brooks led the congregation in a message that stayed with me throughout the cocoa tour. He referenced the scripture (Luke 24:13:35) which speaks about two men on the road to Emmaus who were discussing the recent events of Jesus’ crucifixion. Jesus walks alongside them and joins their conversation. When they invite Jesus to stay with them, Jesus accepts and joins them for a meal. When Jesus breaks bread, gives thanks, and passes the bread to them, the scripture says, “their eyes were opened and they recognized him.”

As Rev. Brooks continued, I closed my eyes. I saw the image of a light shining in a basket. I pondered the meaning of the vision. So, here I was sitting among a community of believers and sensing that this place was something special to God. What does it mean? I asked the Lord quietly. “I know you are the light of the world, and that baskets may hold food or bread, and this basket was holding Your light.” At best, I knew this was a communication from God that described the uniqueness of that particular church community and their specific call.

At the end of the service, I learned that the church is involved in a weekly food distribution program for the hungry, called Lazarus’ Basket. They also hold weekly Bible studies at a local restaurant where other people may be drawn to participate. So, there it was. The church brought the message of light which is Jesus as a form of spiritual food. The church was the carrier of that basket of light that “passed bread” to a hungry community.

My eyes were opened, and I recognized Him.

How does God become recognized in our day-to-day activities? How often is Jesus recognized through our work or associations with people? There was something so simple, yet so profound in learning how this small congregation carried such a heavy call, yet did it with such ease and love for one another. And, perhaps that was it. These light bearers loved God and each other.

When I stayed at the home of Eusebio Velen, a cocoa producer, he asked me in Spanish, “Are you married, do you have children?” I replied joyfully in Spanish, “Right now, I’m married to Jesus and my children are dance students that I am training.” 

The conversation paved a way for me to share a part of my personal story and struggle.  As I noted Eusebio’s concerned response, one that only a father could have, I realized at that moment that God was being recognized in me. Later, he publicly said to the delegation that I was like a daughter to him and that I was welcome in his home anytime. I was warmed by his remarks, which satisfied that place of belonging as a daughter that I have missed since my father’s passing last year. At that moment, Eusebio became a light-carrier for me. Through him Jesus was inviting me to be a part of that family and community.

I was miles away from my residence in New York, but I was at home sitting and sharing with Eusebio in the Dominican Republic. And, isn’t this what life through Christ is all about? That through loving your neighbor, providing the ministry of presence during a storm, embracing a moment, holding a hand, or extending a hand of support — all of which UMCOR represents—that He is recognized. What a blessing to recognize Jesus!

Pass the bread.

By Judith Santiago, Media Communications Associate for UMCOR

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Libag

Oras na ng tanghalian at hindi pa tapos si Ate maglaba.

Me: "Kala ko ba masama pakiramdam mo, bat naglaba ka pa at ang dami pa?"

Ate: "Ayoko kasi maipon, Madam. Ang dami ko kasing pinagbihisan tska may naiwan pang mga polo si Ser."

"Buti na lang, Madam, hindi malibag si Ser."

Hay, Ate, gusto na kita libagan... ;D

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Sinigang

Masama ang pakiramdam ni Ate kaya ako ang nagluto ng hapunan.

Dinner Time:

Me to Ser: "Kamusta ang sinigang?"

Imbes na si Ser ang sumagot, si Ate ang umeksena:

Ate: "Wala kasi akong malasahan pero mukhang masarap naman, Madam."

Nabaling ang tingin ko sa pinggan nya. Walang sinabi ang Mt. Everest sa tumpok ng kanin na sinapawan nya ng mainit na sinigang. 

Wala nga syang malasahan...

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Tocino

Ate: "Madam, pwede ko po ba iprito itong karne sa pinaglutuan ng tocino?"

Me: "Baka maglasang tocino yung karne."

Ate: "Ay, oo nga pala no? Hihihi."

Haist....

Americal Ido Season 10 Winner

Yes! Scotty's the new American Idol! :)

Is this a bad time to call?

I received a message from my friend who lives in North Texas; she is currently sitting in her closet with her dogs due to a tornado warning. Gotta love tornado alley.
I experienced one rare tornado warning when I lived in Ithaca, New York. A tornado had touched down in the neighboring county. One coworker and I stood on the portico and enjoyed the strong gusts as the rest of the office scrambled for the basement. "The sky's not green yet," she told our boss who was yelling at us to get inside. "Are you from Oklahoma," I asked. "No, I'm from Kansas."

And then we turned to watch the communications director race for the basement with an armful of potted begonias. A tornado of sorts was indeed occurring.

Pisi para kay Ate

Impernes kay Ate, kahit na may mga pagkakataon na hindi kami magkaintindihan, mabait naman sya, malinis at mukhang mapagkakatiwalaan. 

Kailangan ko lang talaga bagalan at ulit-ulitin ang pagsasalita at habaan ang pasensya. 

Buti na lang, low blood ako at bago umabot sa high, dadaan muna sa normal ang blood pressure ko: 

mahaba-habang pisi na sana hindi agad mapatid. ;D

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Blinds

Ate: "Ayan, parang umaaraw na," sabay hawi sa blinds para sumilip sa labas. 

Me: "Ate, ganito ang pagbukas ng blinds para hindi sya masira o mawala sa alignment."

Ate: "Ay, sori, Madam, hindi ako sanay sa ganyang kurtina."

Sakit sa bangs. Huhuhu.

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Takore

Nagsalang si Ate ng tubig sa takore para sa kape. Matapos ang ilang minuto, sumipol ang takore. Lumapit si Ate sa kalan, tinitigan ang takore at saka sinabi:

"Kumulo ka na ba?"

Boohuhuhu!

Sentimyento

Mabuti pa ang ibang tao, higit pa sa kadugo ang trato sa'yo. Umiiwas ka na nga sa gulo, ikaw pa ang naging impakto. 

Bakit mo naman sila haharapin kung alam mong sa paningin nila wala kang kwentang tao? 

Matapos mong tumulong, isusumbat sa'yo ang pagsisikap mong bumuo ng sarili mong pamilya. 

May karapatan ka rin namang lumigaya...

USS Carl Vinson

This is among my top ten experiences in Hong Kong. I will post the full report later.

Malaria Nets Distribution Launch Event

During mosquito nets distribution launch celebration in Golo, the gathered crowd had an opportunity to learn, in a skit, about the proper use of the nets.
Ted Warnock

By Nyamah Dunbar*

With roughly two months of planning and nearly four weeks before the kickoff of a massive mosquito nets distribution in Mozambique, the United Methodist Mozambique Annual Conference hosted nearly 1,500 inhabitants of the rural village of Golo in a launch celebration of the effort to eradicate malaria.

The national nets distribution is part of a local government effort. It is supported by Imagine No Malaria, an initiative which, through UMCOR, is partnering with the United Methodist Church of Mozambique, the Missouri Annual Conference, United Methodist Communications (UMCOM), and the Government of Mozambique to finance the net distribution. An estimated 100,000 nets will be distributed to inhabitants of two districts in southern Mozambique, benefiting a total of about 165,000 individuals.

Bishop Joaquina Nhanala reminded the gathered crowd of The United Methodist Church’s mission, in adhering to the mandate of Jesus Christ, to teach, to heal, and to preach to the flock. She reiterated that whether through local or universal means, The United Methodist Church’s aim is to extend beyond the pulpit and serve the general population.

Bishop Sengulane of the Episcopal Church, former UMC Bishop of Mozambique João Somane Machado, a representative from the provincial governor’s office, and Ministry of Health leaders reinforced the importance of the UMC-led partnership with the government, the first of its kind for the region.

The significance of partnership and the importance of proper and consistent use of mosquito nets were key components of the messages by attending dignitaries to the launch celebration participants.

After the speeches and prayers, came the music, inevitably followed by joyful African dancing. The young and old, traditional chiefs and school-age children all joined each other under the sweltering sun and swaying palm trees, as local musicians provided music, skits, and choreographed dances in celebration of this great effort to eradicate malaria.

The launch celebration was made possible through support from UMCOM, under the leadership of Rev. Larry Holland and Rev. Gary Henderson, who also heads the Global Health Initiative, of which Imagine No Malaria is its first campaign initiative.

*Nyamah Dunbar is UMCOR Grants Officer for Imagine No Malaria.

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Tubig

Oras na naman ng pagsasaing:

Me: "Dalawang takal na lang isaing mo kasi maraming tirang kanin. Dagdagan mo yung tubig ng 1/4 cup tulad kanina."


Ate: "Ok, Madam. Bale 1 1/2 cups yung tubig?"

Huhuhuhu!!! Pengeng valium!!!

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Sampay

Me: "Ate, may naiwan ka pa atang sampay sa labas. Malapit na bumuhos ang ulan."

Ate: "Pakitingin na lang po at pakisabi pag anjan na yung ulan, ha?"

Waah! First day nya pa lang, inuuban na ko! :(

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Ulan

Ate: "Ipapasok ko na po yun mga sampay kasi umuulan na."

Me (Nagtataka kasi walang naririnig na patak ng ulan): "As in, umuulan na?"

Ate: "Makulimlim."

Me: "So hindi pa umuulan?"

Ate: "Yata..."

Waaah!!! :(

Unlike the Menendez brothers, no one would convict you

The story of the Haddad family would be a hilarious tale if it wasn't a disturbing reality. The parents had given up on planning a future for their children due to their zealous belief that the world would come to an end on 22 May, 2011. They left their jobs, stopped saving for college, uprooted the children so that they could become street preachers in New York, and told the children that due to the children's disbelief they were going to hell.


But now it is 23 May, 2011 and I have to wonder what happens when there is no plan B.

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Sinaing

Ate: "Magsasaing na po ako."

Me: "Okay, kung maraming natirang kanin, 2 1/2 cups na lang isaing mo. Tapos, dagdagan mo ng 1/4 cup yung tubig."

Ate: "Ay, gano po karami yun?"

Toink!

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Paksiw

Me: "Marunong ka magluto?"

Ate: "Opo."

Me: "Sige, paki-paksiw mo yun natirang lechon."

Ate: "Paano pong magpaksiw?"

Toink!

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Sauce

Me: "Paghalu-haluin mo yung bawang, suka, tubig, paminta, pakuluin ng 30 minuto tapos saka mo ilagay yung mang tomas na sauce."

Pinaghalo-halo ni Ate ang mga ingredients at pagkalipas ng isang minuto:

Ate: "Ilalagay ko na po yung sauce?"

Me: "Kumulo na ba?"

Ate: "Hindi pa po."

Toink!


San ba nakakabili ng common sense? :(

Can't get over Pirates

Beautiful mermaids, 

tears, 

falling in love and 

sexy pirates like 

Johnny Depp. 

As good as it gets, 

don't ever remind me about 

growing up yet.

Perfectly Imperfect

A busted mobile phone, 

a prank caller on our land line 

and an intermittent internet connection. 

What else could go wrong?

he said what?

Delegate Mark L. Cole, a Republican in the Virginia House of Delegates, led a fight to ban employers or insurance companies from implanting micro-chips in people against their will.
"My understanding—I'm not a theologian—but there's a prophecy in the Bible that says you'll have to receive a mark, or you can neither buy nor sell things in end times. Some people think these computer chips might be that mark."
Accoring to journalist Tim Murphy, "[w]e're not theologians either, but this is what's known in the industry as Too Good to Fact-Check (TGTFC). And for the record: planting micro-chips in people's bodies against their will is definitely poor form, if not actually the work of the Devil."

Ate's Amazing Adventures: Tsinelas

Ate: "Madam, may extrang tsinelas po ba kayo?"

Me: "Sige, sayo na muna itong tsinelas ko. Bili na lang tayo sa weekend ng sayo."

Nilabas ko ang pinaka-tago-tago kong havaianas para may magamit ako. Makalipas ang ilang oras...

Ate: "Peram muna neto, Madam, at malamig ang semento." Sabay suot sa havaianas ko.

Me (takang-taka): "Nasan na yung binigay kong tsinelas sayo kanina?"

Ate: "Ay, pang CR po yun."

Wahuhuhuhu! :(

Home sweet home

One week of having been away and I am so dying to give our home a very tight hug.  

I missed you, home.  

Much, much…

It haunts me

We haven eaten at Didier on a few occasions. It is fast becoming a favorite.  The charming and comfortable setting allows the food to shine.

On the latest occasion I tried sweetbreads for the first time in my life. Oh revelation.  Oh ecstasy.  I am haunted by the memory.

One down...

My first ever oDesk earnings. The sweetest $3.00 in the world!

I really am back in business.  I have a new client who pays me $5.00 an hour for a copy-paste job.  Cool.  Today, however, I had only 3 hours to spare for this job, the rest I spent with my real bosses: 

my kids!

Now it’s time to hit the sack… *yawns*

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Getting ready to watch Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and then the client sends me work. 


Well, he will have to wait. 

It's Johnny Depp, for Christ's sake! ;)

Doomsday

Late na ako nagising. 

Tapos na ba ang rapture? 

Year 0001 na ba ulet? ;D

The Simpsons - Voices: Bart, Homer, Lisa, Moe, Mr. Burns

Pinapanood sa akin ni Kamote itong video na ito at tuwang-tuwa naman ako.  Parang mas naaliw pa ako dito kesa sa mismong cartoon. ;D

                 

PCOS & Ovarian Cysts: How to Prevent and Manage This Condition

One of the most important concerns of women is that of their reproductive health. Considering that ovarian cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer death in women, regular checks for possible symptoms associated with ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer should be a top priority, especially as a woman approaches their fifties. The following contains information on ovarian cysts, PCOS and how to diagnose and treat these gynecological issues.

What is an ovarian cyst?

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac which forms on the surface of an ovary. These cysts are actually incompletely developed follicles that have not been fertilized, normally disappearing within a couple of menstrual cycles. These cysts are known as "functional cysts", relatively benign cysts which are the result of the release of an egg from the ovary. The vast majority of these cysts often show up as non-cancerous forms, but there are some ovarian cysts that can turn cancerous. Women over the age of 50 are the most susceptible for ovarian cysts and should seek the advice of a doctor if they suspect that these cysts are cancerous.

What is PCOS?

PCOS stands for polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition that effects between 4 percent and 10 percent of women who are of childbearing age. The word "polycystic" alludes to the condition of having an accumulation of cysts within the ovaries. The cysts involved in PCOS are not dangerous in of themselves, but there is the possibility of a hormonal imbalance being triggered by the presence of these cysts, leading to distinctive symptoms associated with PCOS. It is not quite clear as to the definite cause of PCOS, but there are factors which can lead to this syndrome, including obesity, insulin resistance, external hormonal disruptors such as environmental or chemical pollution and genetic predisposition to such syndromes, among other potential triggers.

 

Are ovarian cysts dangerous?

The vast majority of cysts are of the benign variety that normally does not cause any pain or discomfort. In most cases, most women do not realize that they have ovarian cysts at all. But there are cases where ovarian cysts can cause a notable amount of discomfort, especially during intercourse. Ovarian cysts may suddenly bleed or rupture, causing significant pain in the abdominal and pelvic regions. In rare cases, cysts can form within the corpus luteum, growing 3 to 4 inches in diameter while causing pelvic or abdominal pain, especially if the cysts manage to twist the ovary. For women in their fifties, ovarian cysts can turn into cancerous tumors, with the possibility of spreading to the lymph nodes and other tissues.

What are the types of cysts?

As mentioned earlier, the vast majority of cysts are "functional" cysts which normally go away on their own in about 1 to 3 months after ovulation. These cysts are products of the ovulation process and are usually so small and unobtrusive that you may not even realize you have one. Another type of ovarian cyst which is normally benign is a cystadenoma, which develops from the cells on the surface of the ovary. In some cases, these particular cysts can grow large, placing pressure on the abdominal organs resulting in some pain. Dermoid cysts consist largely of fat tissue, while also containing a mix of other tissues. This kind of cysts is normally small and relatively benign, but there are rare cases where dermoid cysts can grow to large sizes and eventually burst. This causes abdominal bleeding and is serious enough to warrant an emergency hospital visit.

Endometrioma is another type of cyst that could potentially grow within the ovaries. These cysts form when the endometrial tissue found inside of the uterus finds its way in the ovaries. These cysts are often called "chocolate cysts", due to the fact that these cysts often fill with blood, giving them a brownish red color. Endometrioma can be potentially painful, especially during intercourse. Endometriosis is the presence of multiple endometrias within the ovaries.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cysts?

The symptoms of ovarian cysts vary from case to case, although the most common symptoms have been shared by a majority of those with ovarian cysts. These include pelvic pain just before and after your period, sensations of pressure placed on your bladder or rectum, menstrual irregularities and persistent vaginal discharge. Abdominal pain is usually associated with ovarian cysts, although other conditions have similar symptoms, such as kidney stones, bladder infections and appendicitis, along with gynecologic issues such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). If any of these symptoms should appear, it is best to seek medical advice from a health professional. In the event that sudden symptoms appear, such as severe pain in your lower abdomen, fever, vomiting or signs of shock, immediately seek emergency help at the nearest hospital.

How are ovarian cysts diagnosed?

Ovarian cysts are diagnosed with a series of routine procedures, depending on the severity of the problem. Pelvic exams are used to detect ovarian cysts early on. Done annually, this is the best preventative method for detecting and treating ovarian cysts early on. If ovarian cysts are detected, a pelvic ultrasound is employed to determine the size of the cysts. Sound waves are used to produce an image of the cyst which is then analyzed by a gynecological professional. In the event that the doctor wants to closely examine the ovarian cyst, laparoscopy is employed, using a laparoscope. This thin, illuminated telescope is inserted through a small incision into the abdomen in order to closely inspect the cyst, as well as possibly remove it.

How can ovarian cysts be treated?

The methods used to treat ovarian cysts depend on the type of cysts and the severity of the symptoms associated with ovarian cysts or PCOS. If cysts are small and benign and are causing no symptoms, your doctor may advise you to wait for the cysts to go away on their own, following up with another pelvic exam and ultrasound in about six weeks. If the cysts do not go away on their own or grow even larger, other measures will be taken. One of these measures includes taking birth control pills. Birth control pills can possibly help the ovarian cyst shrink by changing the hormone levels within the body. Not only can birth control pills help shrink cysts, they also may prevent other cysts from growing.

As a last resort, the cyst may be removed if it is too large to shrink or if it is either solid or filled with debris. The cyst may also be removed if it is causing a significant amount of pain and distress or if it is continuously growing. A cystectomy may be performed, sometimes using the same laparoscopic techniques used for examining them. In most cases, the cyst can be removed without removing the affected ovary itself, although in some cases the ovary also has to be removed. In this case, the other ovary is left intact to insure continued hormone balance. In the case of PCOS, hormonal therapy may be used to not only treat the cysts themselves, but also the symptoms associated with PCOS. Metformin, a drug used to regulate insulin efficiency, is also used in most cases to treat the insulin resistance associated with PCOS. Other treatments range from better dietary habits and weight loss to ovarian drilling. Ovarian drilling consists of creating anywhere from 4 to 30 holes in a cystic ovary, a treatment that has worked for some women. In the case of ovarian cancer, surgery is the most preferred route of treatment, followed by chemotherapy and radiation treatments. In the most extreme cases, a hysterectomy, which involves the removal of both ovaries, along with any nearby lymph glands and other affected tissue, may be necessary to prevent the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.

Can ovarian cysts be prevented?

Ovarian cysts are a phenomenon that cannot be entirely avoided, although they can be managed with sensible measures. A woman can minimize the frequency and growth of ovarian cysts with means as simple as increased exercise and improvements in dietary habits and overall health. Controlling your level of stress, as well as balancing your hormonal system can also make a difference in how ovarian cysts are managed. Diet is the most important aspect of managing ovarian cysts. According to medical research, women who consumed a large amount of meat and cheese product were the most susceptible to ovarian cysts, while women who consumed green vegetables were the least vulnerable to developing ovarian cysts.

Find Out More at http://ovarianoverview.com

Author: Michael Curran
Website: http://ovarianoverview.com

Ovarian Overview is a comprehensive collection of information on what factors cause Ovarian Cysts & PCOS. The website documents how to identify, treat, prevent and manage Ovarian Cysts.

View the original article at http://ovarianoverview.com/pcos_article.html

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daan... ;D

Doomsday Eve

Naku, bukas na pala deadline ng mga utang na naipangako kong babayaran sa katapusan...

ng mundo. 

Patay... ;D

get your effects in order

Now I know that I incorrectly told you that the Rapture was coming last year but this time I have the news from the highest authorities that I know.

Last night SB informed me that according to the Drudge Report the Rapture was most likely occurring on Saturday.  Aw crap, I thought, I really wanted to see the Asian Five Nations rugby match tomorrow (it begins at 1pm at Football Club so we may still watch it if the rapture comes fashionably late in the evening).  Since my favorite hockey teams have been eliminated I won't be too distraught that I won't get to see the end of the Stanley Cup.

I would like to also take this time to remind my readers to get your things in order.  Maybe you aren't too worried about your personal effects since you figure that you and all your deserving friends are going to be transported across the rainbow but don't forget about those who are left behind- your pets.  Call up that Jewish family who lived down the street or the agnostic/atheist roommate from university and see if they like pets.  For a small fee you can donate Bingo and Pooky to the Eternal Earth Bound Pets organization.

I HATE wearing pads!

And for that reason, 

GUSTO KO NA MAG-MENOPAUSE!