Saturday 05 June 2015
Sachin joined his mom & nana/nani to a Bible concert by Watoto Group at the local church (Real Hope Christian Assembly Church on Hwy 17) . The Watoto Group is a collection of childen from Uganda who had been orphaned etc. and rescued by a Christian denominational missionary in Uganda. The African kids sang beautiful hymes and songs praising Jesus Christ . Though we are not Christians by faith – this demonstration of zeal and making life useful was educational; to Sachin and other younger kids. It was rather unfortunare that Sitara could not go as she had fallen sick all through the previous night. Sachin was sick on Friday but managed to recover a bit by the time the Concert was on.
Note: Currently, Watoto cares for almost 4,000 children. To date, a couple of hundreds of these have come full circle through the program and are now productive citizens. They have been given back the potential to fulfill their dreams. Watoto is also more than just a choir, as each of the childen has suffered the loss of on eor both of their parents.
They were rescued as orphans by social workers, nurtured and cared for by loving moms, educated by teachers, healed physically and emotionally by caring doctors and counsellors, spiritually discipled by pastors, and supported by generous sponsors and friends from around the world. It took a community to raise each one of these children.
Fridaay 12 June 2015
This day was frantic one. Nana/nani were busy in the morning having a contractor to trim the trees in the front and back of the Deep River home, part of fence in the front and fence gate at the back were either replaced or mended. A concrete pavement (on the side of thebuilding) was expanded in width.
It was joyous day as Kieran became 15 months old .
Sitara participated at the school ( Childs Auditoriuom at Machenzie Community School) in an instrument playing concert . Both nana/nani went to witness Sitara’s participation . Also her parents were there. Sachin’s class was also present.
In the evening at 5.00 pm Sachin’s parenst along with parents of other KG class kids had organised a graduation event for the KG kids at the Deep River library 9 the indoor venue was necessary as weather was couldy and wet). This is a non-official graduation celebration.
Parents had prepared a good program with all the paraphernelia ( like graduation hats , song/pledge etc) And a feast was had by all prsent afterwards.
Friday 26 June 2015
This previous week had been the last week for Sitara and Sachin to participate in 2015 soccer games at Grouse Park in Deep River.
Also on Friday they had ” Friday night picnics at the Waterfront and Library Night! Woo hoo! ” Thatw ould be in deep River .Their mom’s Facebook post announced
Friday 26 June 2015
It was graduation week for our Toronto family .
Shannon posted on Friday (26 June ) the following on her Facebook page
It’s been a week of graduations in our family. I graduated from my Developmental Paediatrics fellowship on Tuesday and Maya graduated from preschool today. Hopefully the first of many graduations for her, and the last of many for me!
Note: Maya will be going to Junior KG in September
Saturday 27 June 2015
Sitara and Sachin spent the day at Rolph AirStrip in Deep River – enjoying to know the small airplanes . They were entertained and shown inside of a plane by Zin and his son Thit.
Note : Zin has now moved to Hamilton and had been to Deep River as they had just recently sold their home. Thit had copme from Ottawa to be wioth his parents – Thit is the one who keeps the plane – though both Zin and Thit had pilot license.
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This is turning into a busy 2015 summer and a happy one – though a bit pre- jinxed by “under the weather” by both me and wife. Luckily doctors were consulted and anti-biotics were taken before Sunir and family arrived in Deep River -and all was okay .
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Wednesday 01 July 2015
First Maya and Kieran came over from Toronto driven by their parents in their ” Subaru Outback” car . They came on Wednesay just about at lunch time – the Canada Day ( July 01) – having spent the night at Huntsville at Shannon’s maternal grandma’s place .
They stayed till Sunday 5 July.
Canada Day turned out to be a whimper in Deep River due to adverse weather but Sitara and sachin along with their parents had a great Canada Day at Mackey – where the weather was just perfect.
However, both Sitara and Sachin came over to Deep River – to meet their Mama and Mami and to play with their cousins from Toronto. All the kids had a great time together – Kieran just going around walking all over and also climbing stairs in the DR house. He also discovered many toys which were sprayed all around the house.
Ba ( for Maya and Kieran ) or nani (for Sitara and Sachin) did a Puja (along with the whole family) to Shree Jalaram – for welcoming the family get together in Deep River on this auspicious Canada Day .
Maya and Sachin were playing together and Sitara ( now garduated over 7 years ) was all mushy with Kieran.
At the late evening all adults and Sitara/sachin went to Deep River campus to watch the fireworks – while both Maya and Kieran had gone to sleep watched over by their Ba/Bapuji.
Thursday 02 July 2015
Both Sitara and sachin came over from Mackey early in the morning ( dropped by their dad) – joined in the breakfast and after that they spent time playing with Maya and Kieran- and of course with their Mama and Mami.
All kids were taken to the DR Library ( by walking) by Sunir/Shannon – for a summer Library program ( for a duration of 3/4 hour) – though Kieran could not join due to his age ( just 1 year and 3 months) . However, Kieran joined his parents to a coffee at the Restaurant ( Bean House) in the centre of the town .
In the afternoon, Sachin had a soccer play with his Mama in the field behind the house – while Sitara was busy on the Computer and Maya and Kieran were having afternoon nap. BNormally Maya does not need afternoon nap but this day she was encouraged by her parents as she woke up early in the morning.
Late in the afternoon, there was a gift exchange – an early Birthday gift exchange for the coming birthdays for Sachin, Sitara and Maya – as it seems neither Nina/Sunjay could go to Toronto for celebrating Maya’s birthday in August nor Sunir/Shannon can come over for Sachin birthday in July or for Sitara’s birthday in August. So this visit to DR by Sunir and family provided an opportunity to do the Gift giving .
Friday 03 July 2015
This was to be busy day – as Ba/Bapuji along with Nina/Sunjay had organised a Welcome Party for Kieran – to introduce him to our Indian Community friends in Deep River and the area .
A Cake was also ordered from Valumart bakery – with inscription ” Kieran 1st Year – a piece of cake “.
Some 10 families ( which include Kannan’s daughter/husband – Dhenuka/Arun from London, Ontario and Kanna’s son /wife ( Karthik/Ashley) did join us to share the joy of welcoming Kieran into the family and to DR.
Sitara missed the last part of the party ( when the Cake for Kieran) was cut – by Maya and Sachin – as she had a prior engagement for a sleep-over party at her freind’s home in DR.
Note: In the morning (early at 9.30 am) the kids had gone to the Pine Point beach – Maya and Kieran with their parents and Sitara and Sachin were driven there by their nana at 9.30 am and picked them back at 11.30 am .
Saturday 04 July 2015
This day in the morning – Kieran was helped (by parents, Maya and Ba/Bapuji) to open the gifts given to him by friends (during the previous day Party) – he was all excited and having fun.
He demonstrated so much lively actions and fun and made all very happy.
Both Sitara and Sachin (along with parents) joined Maya and Kieran at nana/nani home and all had lunch together and after that all went to the Pine Point beach for a short time – as all were invited to Kannan/Lakshmi home at 3.00 pm to a welcome party for their newest grandson (Keaton) – Ashley and Karthik being the parents.
Sunday 05 July 2015
Both Maya and Kieran departed for Toronto at about 9.30 am -driven by their parents in their Subaru Outback car – stopping over in Huntsville (at their mom’s maternal grandma’s home) for a couple of hours and then arriving in Toronto late in the evening.
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Also on this day – Sunjay’s niece Rita and her husband Mahesh and their 3 kids from Boston arrived by car ( late afternoon) at Mackey to spend a few days with them on holiday. The 3 kids are grown-up – the boy is in high school doing grade 11 and two girls are in pre-graduate courses.
Nana/nani went to Mackey to meet the guests in the evening.
Monday 06 July 2015
In the afternoon, the guests – all went to the Pine Point Beach in Deep River – along with Sitara , Sachin and Nina but later joined by nani picked up by Sunjay.
After the beach fun – they all went to Petawawa and had the dinner at the now famous Lebanese restaurant ” Madameek ” on the Victoria Street. All were joined by nana – having come from his Bridge Card game at Pembroke. All had enjoyed the Lebanese dishes served at the restaurant.
After dinner all went romping at the Petawawa rapids – walked and stepped on massive rocks and walked on wall along the Petawawa River. As the dusk was falling – nana/nani returned back to DR to their home
After the rapids they all went to Canadian Army base grounds (near museum) in Petawawa to look around at the military equipment on display outdoors. Then late they all went to Mackey.
Tuesday 07 July 2015
The guests spent the day at Mackey – Swimming, soaking themselves in the hot tub and also sauna etc. Nana/nani joined the fun (and dinner) in the evening. At the time when nana/nani arrived at Mackey Rita was cooking the clams ( which the kids had collected from the Pine Point Beach in Deep River on Monday) .
The evening was spent mostly indoors playing on the ” caram ” board
Mahesh, Rita and their three kids ( one boy and two girls) left Mackey early morning on Wednesday 8 July to return to Boston by car.
However, Mackey was busy as they were entertaining another family to visit that evening – Sanjay, Sapna, the kids (boy 5 1/2 years old and the girl is 2 1/2) and along Sanjay’s Mum (Rewaben ) and Dad -Prabubhai came from Philadelphia in their car – arrived at about 7.30 pm – having spent some time in Ottawa. Sanjay is our Sunjay’s cousin . Rewaben and Prabhubhai are from England – recently arrived in USA to visit their son and family.
Nana/nani visited the guest family at Mackey after having their supper in DR.
Thursday 08 July 2015
The guests came over to DR in the morning – all kids went to the DR Library program with Nina and Sapna – seniors spending time with nana/nani at DR home . Also Sanjay ( the guest) spent time at DR home to connect to his office in Philadelphia- to carry out his office work.
Sitara dad – Sunjay had gone to his office for the day.
After the library program (which finished at about 11.30 am) all went to Pine Point beach in Deep River . Nani also joined them but nana stayed home .
The beach party enjoyed the picnic burgers etc obtained by nana from the Burger King in Deep River
After spending time at the beach Nani came back at home around 3.00 pm and all others went to Mackey.
Friday 09 July 2015
The guests spent the day in Mackey – swimming in the pool, using the hot tub and kids playing together . Nana/nani went there in the afternoon – had a great social with the seniors and then went outdoors to be with kids – who went for kayaking .
First batch of outdoors sportsmen were Nina, Sapna and Sitara who went for kayaking on the Ottawa River (along their home) – after that Sunjay, Sanjay , Sachin and the guest kid went for their kayaking .
Nana/nani had to return to DR as they were going for a birthday party at Bears Den at 6.00 pm for 1 year old baby girl – Shreya – (Bhawna/Satyam’s daughter)
Note: the guests returned to Philadelphia – leaving Mackey on Saturday (July 10) morning .
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Sunday July 12 – Sunjay’s Mum and Yasmin to arrive from England until August 14.
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News from Toronto
Shannon and kids (Maya and Kieran had gone to cottage ( her parent’s cottage) on Monday 8 July and returning back on Friday evening 10 July – while Sunir stayed back in Toronto.
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e-mail from Shannon Saturday July 11
Hi Jackie and Pravin,
Thanks for your message. We miss you too! We had a great time visiting with you in Deep River.
The kids and I just got back from the cottage yesterday afternoon. We had fun with my mom, Cole, and Heather. Now we are back in the city for the next week before going up to the cottage again on July 20 (with Erika and Mathieu). Busy summer 🙂
We will give you a call this weekend!
Shannon
xoxo
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Sunday 12 July 2015
Hasuben – Sitara and Sachin’s Ba ( Sunjay’s mom) – along with Yashmin – Sitara/Sachin’s cousin ( Sunjays’ sister’s daughter) arrived from London on Saturday – picked up from the airport by Sunjay in the afternoon – arriving late in the evening -as Sunjay had a detour for shopping in Ottawa.
There was a thunderstorm at Mackey resulting in a loss of electrical power for few hours. So the guests got a bit of rural Canada’s life experience with no water as the well pump was not operative due to lack of electrical power.
Monday 13 July 2015
Nana/nani went to Mackey in the evening to welcome the guests from UK and spent a few hours with them and playing with Sitara and Sachin . Nana played frist with Sitara and then with Sachin a game of ” Connect ” .
Also Sitara wrote to The tooth fairy letting her know of her second molar fell out. Here is what her mom posted on her Facebook page :
” Writing a letter to the Tooth Fairy. Sitara’s second Molar fell out today. Apparently it is supposed to fall out when you are 10 years old. The poor kid can’t lose any more teeth…. She can barely eat anything! ”
Tuesday 14 July 2015.
It was a rainy day and kids and guests spent time indoors in Mackey during the day . In the evening all came over ( including kids’ dad who came from his work) to DR to nana/nani home and all had dinner together .
After dinner all ( except nana who stayed back at home in DR – due to his health ) went to see a movie ( Inside Out) played at the Troyes Cinema in Petawawa .
Note : The owner/manager of Troyes (Larry ) always at the start of the movie does a demonstration of physical flips (athletic) on the stage to amuse the audience specially the kids . This evening prior to start of the movie ( at the time of buying tickets ) , Sitara bravely asked Larry if he was going to do the flip this evening. He responded with a polite ” yes” and that made Sitara very happy.
In fact she drew (while at the theater) an impromptu “fantastic/realistic” pencil caricature drawing of the “hand stand” ( a flip ) done by Larry on the stage . Her nani was really surprised and very happy at the quality of the sketch/picture . Bravo Sitara.
NOTE:
“Inside Out,” a comedy-adventure set inside the mind of an 11-year old girl, is the kind of classic that lingers in the mind after you’ve seen it,
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Parents need to know that Inside Out is an outstandingly original, heartfelt story from Pixar about growing up and learning to handle your biggest emotions. Told primarily from the perspective of the feelings inside 11-year-old Riley’s mind (brought to life by the voices of Amy Poehler, Mindy Kaling, Bill Hader, and more), the plot has many moments of peril/tension — including bridges/islands crumbling, a train tumbling over a precipice, and characters falling into a deep, dark pit. (Spoiler alert: One key character also permanently fades from existence; that and scenes in which it seems Riley is “borrowing” her mom’s credit card and running away are definitely upsetting.) Some of Riley’s fears are also on display, including a giant, scary clown. Parents are likely to get hit hardest by the film’s heart-tugging moments (bring tissues!), but anyone with empathy will feel for Riley as she experiences life’s ups and downs. Ultimately, Inside Out has important messages about needing to feel — and express — all of your emotions, whether happy or sad. Although most of the content is appropriate for elementary schoolers and up, younger kids may need a bit more explanation about what’s going on, since there are references to abstract thought and the subconscious, and it can be a little confusing when other characters’ emotions are shown.
Wednesday 15 July 2015
This day Sitara and Sachin spent time with their cousin from UK ( Yashmin) and with their Ba ( Sunjay’s Mom) at home. Then they went outdoors – all family & guests together ( of course dad was at work in DR) in the bushes near their home in Mackey and picked wild blueberries and raspberries .
In the late afternoon all came to DR to nana/nani home for dinner ( their dad also joined in after his work) – and at that time brought the “picked” berries for the dessert after the dinner.
After dinner, Sitara played with her cousin Yasmin – setting up the Barbie’s castle but also managed to dress up a Barbie doll with a white gown (made from tissue paper) – all with accessories such a belt. So realistic gown and proper dressing .
Sachin played around with his dad and read a book on Ninja – borrowed from the DR Library.
Sunday 19 July 2015
This day was celebratory one as Sachin’s 6th birthday party was arranged at Mackey – from 1.00 pm to 6.00 pm. This time only a couple of his friends ( & their families) were invited – to keep party engaged where Sachin can play with each of his friends . The day was a bit cloudy one with a forecast of rainy day.
Some games were planned for the kids (which can be played indoors or outdoors) . Most were played indoors but luckily the rain did not stay long – so some games were also played outdoor as well as a dip in the pool – with lots of fun and excitement. A birthday cake was cut and enjoyed by all. In total there were 6 kids – including Sitara.
This day was doubly celebratory as it was also a birthday for kid’s Ba ( Sunjay’s mom- Hasuben) . Her birthday coincides with Sachin’s birthday. This year she was here in Mackey having arrived from England recently for a few weeks – along with Yashmin ( her granddaughter – her daughter’s daughter).
Here is the poem Sachin’snana wrote for him to celebrate his 6th Birthday :
Sachin’s 6th Birthday 20 July 2015
Our Sachin, 6 years and growing
Your smile and twinkle in your eyes
are mesmerising
Keep our spirits high
You are like a sunshine in our life
Your spontaneous and loving hugs
Keep blood flowing in our veins
Our Sachin is always
so playful and cheerful
That enhances our mojo all times
We wish you
a Very Happy Birthday
and many more to come
nana/nani
Monday 20 July 2015 ( actual birthday for Sachin and also for his Ba )
The kids went to Eganville to visit/see the Caves along with visitors from England ( their Ba and didi ) – the day was planned to take the visitors from England for an outing to Eganville and after that a visit to Hugly farm in Pembroke -ending the day with dinner at East Side Maria in Pembroke ( kid’s favourite restaurant) . All went by nana’s maroon Dodge minivan – as 6 family members can sit comfortably well together in the minivan.
This is what Nina wrote on her Facebook page on that date :
” The Bonnechere Caves, Huglis and dinner at the kids favourite restaurant topped off with a visit with friends. I’d say Sachin and Mum had a fun filled Birthday!! ‘
Tuesday 21 July 2015
This day Nina had to go to Ottawa for her tooth root canal job – a tooth was paining since last few days .
Nina went to Ottawa along with kid’s didi and the kids and their Ba spent time in Deep River with nana/nani.
Of course their dad was working that day .
The kids and their Ba joined in for breakfast and after breakfast (as the day was rainy ) the kids played on nana’s computer . Outside activities were difficult due to rain/clouds but when a little sunshine came the kids went outdoors for an hour or so – and they used chalk to draw designs on the concrete path way in the front of the entrance to nana/nani home. Sitara made a wonderful drawing of a flower.
In the evening their dad joined with the family for dinner (Nina and kids’ didi being in Ottawa) after dinner spent time together playing/chatting before going home to Mackey
Thursday 23 July 2015
This day the kids are joining the family to go to Toronto – as their Ba (and Didi ) would want visit some relatives in Toronto/Mississauga area . They drove from Mackey in the evening (in nana’s maroon 2001 Dodge minivan) after their dad had returned from work.
On their return from Toronto on Sunday , they will visit Shannonmami’s parents cottage (on the Trent-Severn) and have lunch with SunirMama, ShannonMami, Maya and Kieran at the cottage and ShannonMami’s parents and other family members. After lunch and kids playing together and adults having chitchat- the family will return to Mackey late in the evening .
They returned to Mackey at about 10.30 pm – after having stopped over en route for dinner.
Tuesday 28 July 2015
All came over to nana/nani home in Deep River in the afternoon – after they had spent time at Limure beach in Deep River – with their mom, didi and Ba. They then had their lunch at nana/nani home.
Sachin played with nana (with his Shopingkin toys and the book) and then later gone for walk along his didi and nana. Sachin used his kiddie scooter but then decided to take a path across the back alleys in the forest cutting from the Thompson Cr – the pathway ended at the other end of the Thompson Cr.
Sitara had gone to her Art Class .
In the evening their dad came over (after his work) to be with the family. This day Teerth (boy – 8 + years ) and Devki (girl – 4 + year ) were invited -along with their parents (Prinka-mom and Pankaj-dad) and their grandfather (maternal) Jagdishbhai – who is a visitor from Ahmedabad-Gujarat, India.
There was feast of a dinner together – kids having their dinner first and then adults had theirs – followed by dessert -in similar fashion.
Thursday 30 July 2015
The kids and their Ba as well as their Didi along with their Mom spent the afternoon at Tea Lake (Rolphton) – Catching frogs and snakes!
It was a fun day for them and after that they spent time in the hot tub (and of course in the pool) at home in Mackey.
note: nana/nani had not joined them this day in this outdoor activity
This is what their mom posted on her Facebook on the same date.
” Tea Lake, then straight in the hottub and pool ”
Friday 31 July 2015
Well, Maya and Kieran are on the move – travelling by air to Denver with their parents
Here is an e-mail from their mom dated Friday 31 July 2015
Hello all,
We have arrived safely in Denver after a long day of traveling. All was going reasonably well until we showed up at the airport car rental agency only to discover that I had accidentally booked our car for pickup at the downtown branch instead (45 minutes away)… but the car seats I had ordered from a separate company showed up at the airport car rental branch, as ordered 🙁 Oops! Fortunately, Uber came to the rescue. We ordered a van to install the car seats into and drive us to the other car rental location, since there were no rental cars left at the airport location.
Things have improved since that initial complication. We have checked into a nice hotel with views of the mountains and have been to a kiddie amusement park (see below). Maya liked the rides but Kieran was a bit terrified… Fortunately he had his big sister to look out for him!
Love to you all,
Shannon
xoxo
Saturday 01 August 2015
Kids (Sitara and Sachin) along with the whole family ( including kids’s Ba and didi) came over to Deep River to participate in the program at Arena for celebration of Deep River 70th Anniversary year. The program was originally planned to be outdoors but due to rain and warning of thunderstorm – it was relocated to the DR Arena .
Nana/Nani also joined in the activities for a short while .
Note: The following posted on Friday 31 July 2015 on Deep River 70th Anniversary Facebook:
” We’re on the Move! Because of the weather forecast for tomorrow afternoon (showers and risk of a thunderstorm) we are moving a number of activities to the Deep River Arena. This is because the Air Bounce and other big inflatables are not safe if wet (too slippery) and also because there is a possibility of thunderstorms right through the afternoon period. Check out the schedule below and hope to see you tomorrow! All activities are free! ”
After spending at activities at the Arena , all assembled at nana/nani home for dinner – after that adults played cards (chokdi) , kids were entertained with different activities . Sitara as usual remained busy reading – she is very much into reading ” Archie’s ” comic books – which nani had gathered since many years.
After the card session- all assembled in the living room to watch the video clip of celebration of India’s 50th anniversary at Deep River Townhall.
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Event/Function held at Deep River ( Ontario) Town hall on Saturday 16 August 1997
Event organised by the East Indian Community of what is fondly known as – the ” Deep River/ Pembroke Corridor ” ( Renfrew County) .
Chief Guest : His Worship Mayor of Deep River – Mr. John Murphy
Leading the event and Master of Ceremony – Pravin Shah
Video Clip taken by Dr. Chatterjee – formerly of Pembroke
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Both kids were very excited to watch the video clip – especially to see their nana leading the event and giving a speech. Sachin just came over and gave multiple hugs to his nana and Sitara (while reading her Archie’s comic book) just posited herself over her nana resting her head on his lap.
Sunday 02 August 2015
Maya and Kieran are in the Rocky Mountain National park – as informed by their mom’s e-mail sent on 02 August 2015.
After a nice day in Denver on Friday, we arrived yesterday at our YMCA lodge in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s like summer camp for families… lodges and cabins, a dining hall, and lots of activities (swimming pool, playground, crafts, games, hikes, etc). Today we are having a lunchtime cook-out with all the Olarkers. There are three other Olark families with young kids, so Maya and Kieran have some playmates.
Congratulations to Erika on your silver medal at the European Ultimate Frisbee Championship! What an accomplishment!
Note: Erica is kid’s Aunt( Shannon sister) who is currently living in Switzerland.
Monday 03 August 2015
Sitara was entertained for her upcoming Birthday by her parents taking her to Ottawa- using nana’s 2001 maroon Dodge minivan . After a pit stop at Deep River at nana/nani home – they drove away at about 10.00 am. Her brother (Sachin), didi (Yashmin) and Ba (Hasuben) also joined her & family. They stayed the night at a hotel in Ottawa, visited museums and other places of interests.
They all went to see/participate in the Ottawa Busker Festival, Hop-on-Hop-off Tour of the Ottawa sites, The Royal Canadian Mint, Dinner in the Byward Market, The Museum of Nature, The Body Worlds Exhibit, Dinner at the Mill St. Brewery.
They dissected an Owl Pellet – and found a skeleton of a rodent inside .
They returned back to Mackey next day ( Tuesday ) late in the night.
Tuesday 04 August 2015
Maya and Kieran are in Boston, USA having a great time hob-nobbing with other kids of Olark staff ( Maya’s dad’s work colleagues in USA ) .
In an e-mail message dated 04 August 2015 , their mom informed the relatives as below:
” Here are Maya and Kieran with their new Olark buddies. Zozi is 4 days younger than Maya and Bailyn is 2 weeks older than Kieran – very convenient! Maya and Zozi are going to day camp together today… I’m so excited for Maya’s first “camp” experience! I hope she likes camp as much as her mom 😀 Everyone enjoyed the group campfire and s’mores last night (but I was the only one singing camp songs!)”
NOTE: Maya will be attending a day camp this day along with a daughter ( Zozi) of one Olark staff.
Wednesday 05 August 2015
Happy Birthday our special granddaughter, Sitara.
This day was spent by Sitara mostly at home ( her dad also had taken time off from work) playing and hobnobbing with Sachin, her Didi and adults.
In the afternoon all came over to Deep River to nana/nani home – opened her Birthday gifts and nana’ poem for his special girl.
Poem:
Sitara’s 8th Birthday – 05 August 2015
Our mesmerising Sitara
Turning 8 year old
The years go by
Independent and Full of confidence
Very affectionate
Keen on art and craft
Reading is her second nature
She exudes so much love
Always caring and considerate
She is a princess always in our hearts
We adore you, Sitara
We wish you
a Very Happy Birthday
and many more to come
nana/nani
Then all subsequently drove to Petawawa ( nana/nani in the Jetta VW and the rest in the Dodge Minivan) to see the rapids and walk on the wall there along the Petawawa River (at the Emerald Trail in Petawawa) ) . After that all proceeded to Pembroke for a celebratory dinner at Boston Pizza .
All had a great time.
NOTE: This is what Nina wrote on her Facehook entry on 5 August 2015
” Busy week so far celebrating Sitara’s birthday and Showing Ba and cousin Yasmin around Ottawa. Ottawa Busker Festival, Hop-on-Hop-off Tour of the Ottawa sites, The Royal Canadian Mint, Dinner in the Byward Market, The Museum of Nature, The Body Worlds Exhibit, Dinner at the Mill St. Brewery, The Rapids and then Dinner with Both sets of Grandparents and all the cousins! Now to get ready for Sitara’s birthday party! ”
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Friday 07 August 2015
This day there was a social gathering at Soli/Roy’s home in Deep River in the evening – we were invited and also the kids (Sitara and Sachin) along with her parents, Ba and didi.
The party had other guests also. The kids like to play with Soli/Roy’s sons Kevin and Ethan. Both are teens in age.
However the party got a tremendous excitement boost when a black bear was spotted at house on Hillcrest Street ( perpendicular to the road on which Soli/Roy house is situated) across from Soli/Roy’s home and can be seen clearly from the back patio of Soli/Roy house. The kids were excited – so were all the rest of us . The Deep River Police were notified – as the house owners were not at home .
The evening also turned into a surprise for Sitara as a cake (with a candle) was ready to celebrate her birthday . Everyone joined in with gusto to sing her a Happy Birthday song.
Friday 07 August 2015
This day is an important one for the family. It is Maya’s 4th birthday . However she is on a travel with her parents (and her baby brother, Kieran) to Denver in USA at this time.
They (her parents and her dad’s Work Colleagues) did hold a Birthday celebratory party for her in Denver .
Here is what her mom sent on her e-mail of the same date:
” It’s been a great trip! Sunir and I both got to try zip-lining… lots of fun! (that’s me in the yellow helmet in the photo). Maya really enjoyed her birthday party and birthday hike. Tomorrow we head to Boulder for one night and then it’s back to Toronto (and starting my new job – gulp!)
Note:
A zip–line (or zip line, zip wire, aerial runway, aerial ropeslide, death slide, flying fox, or foefie slide (in South Africa)) consists of a pulley suspended on a cable, usually made of stainless steel, mounted on an incline.
Love to all and thanks for the birthday wishes for Maya. She enjoyed hearing/seeing them all. xoxo ”
Here is a poem her Bapuji wrote to celebrate Maya’s 4th Birthday:
Maya’s 4th Birthday – 07 August 2015
Our bubbly Maya
Always so energetic
Turning four years old
A young one always active
Her smiles compassionate
Maturity shines every time
She is priceless
Always in our hearts
We love you Maya
We wish you
A day of fun and laughter
a Very Happy Birthday
and many more to come
Ba/Bapuji
Saturday 08 August 2015
She had a sleep over Birthday Party at Mackey – a few friends came over to celebrate with her.
Nana/nani did go to Mackey in the afternoon to participate for an hour or so. Her Ba and didi were there
________________
Sunday 09 August 2015
It was a fun filled and buy Sunday. The kids and the family arrived at nana/nani home in Deep River from Mackey just before lunch.
Nani was almost ready making Thepla ( shredded zucchini and carrot – rolled into the dough) and then Hasuben and nani together just drip fried these on the oven . In the meantime , didi, nana, Dad and mom(Nina) played a few games of Chokdi – Sitara entertained herself ( remaining busy ) reading her new thick Archie book ( which got as a birthday present during Saturday sleepover party.
Sachin had gone to a birthday party (at a friend’s house on Faraday Av. Deep River)
In the afternoon Sachin’s mom ,didi and Sitara walked over to Faraday Av. to bring Sachin to nana/nani home . The grannies (and Nina) were busy making strawberry jam in the afternoon . While Sitara was busy with her Archie book, Sachin went outdoors with his dad, didi and nana to go to the kiddies’ park on Huran Road – which is a walking distance from nana/nani home .
After dinner , Sitara played with her nana – making a fort (tent) in the Recreation room – demonstrating her construction skill for building such tent with all kinds of blankets and whatever is available around. The tent was used to snuggle in and read her Archie book (using a flash light ) with nana.
The ladies were busy in the kitchen making Sukhdi ( Gol Papdi) – an Indian sweet dish . Ans later all got tired ready for sleep and went to Mackey – late in the evening .
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On Facebook Nina had posted on 09 August 2015
Watching the meteor shower with the family and learning that this was the first time seeing any Falling Stars for Mum, Sunjay and Yasmin. A beautiful night! We saw soooo many!
”” feeling blessed.
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Tuesday 11 August 2015
Kids and parents came to nana/nani home ( at noon) to change for going to Pembroke for Mistry Family photos . They all went in nana’s 2001 Dodge Minivan – leaving their both VW cars at nana/nani hom—————————————
Monday 10 August 2015
Maya/Kieran returned back from US trip to Toronto
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Saturday 15 August 2015
Didi going to New York – flight in the afternoon
Ba going to London – flight in the evening
Kids first will go to participate in AECL (CNL) picnic – taken there by their mom
Didi and Ba driven to Ottawa Airport by dad (along with nana/nani) – in Dodge minivan
All met (after dropping didi at airport) at Ottawa Town Hall for South Asia Fest – Ba, nana/nani & dad then joined by mom& kids after their sojourn at AECL picnic
Tuesday 20 August 2015
Facebook Posting by Nina with an album of photos for each birthday celebration – (Sitara’s and Sachin’s)
Sitara
— Ottawa Busker Festival, Body Worlds at the Museum of Nature, The Royal Canadian Mint, The Rapids, Her Birthday Sleep Over, and Dinner————–
Sachin
—- Birthday Party, Bonnechere Caves, Hugli’s and Dinner! Sachin and Mum’s Birthday on July 20th. Back to Hugli’s for the first time since our wedding for Mum and Yasmin —
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Thursday 20 August 2015
Facebook Posting by Nina late at night – Sitara’s paintings and art work at exhibition – See below
Everyone is invited to attend the Kids Art Exhibition. It will be held at the Deep River Library. 23 artists, over 170 works. Come and support our talented youth at the Opening of the exhibit on Monday August 24th at 7pm. The show will run from August 24 to Sept 8th. – *** Let’s make the Grand Opening so large that our young artists feel the support of their talents!!! Monday August 24th at 7pm sharp!!!! ***
Saturday 22 August 2015
Petawawa 150 years old! . Three days of celebration at Civic Center and adjoining Heritage Village .
All the family went there together . Mackey family in one car ( VW Passat) and DR family (nana/nani) in another car – Dodge Caravan.
All had fun -visiting, watching and participating in many events.
Sunday 23 August 2015
After a nice telephone conversation (in the morning) with Maya and Kieran (along with their dad) – we got the following e-mail (titled – Kieran’s words) from Kieran’s dad :
Kieran words
Dada
Mama
Dog
Hat
Hot
Cold
Truck
Book
Ball
Balloon
Bowl
Bubbles
Uhoh
More
Up
Ba
Umbrella
Squirrel
Phone
Hello
Bye bye (gesture)
Cookie (coo coo)
Cole
Cup
Broom
Apple
Park
Car
Duck
Dock
Boat
Mmmmmmmm
Bath
Sock
Blphsssssst elephant sound
Roar lion
Bird
Go?
Down?
Gaga “that guy”
Key?
Block
Cow
Buddha
Off?
Wawa for water
Bagel
Maya?
Rock
Cloth?
Bye
Cheers, Sunir
Monday 24 August 2015
It was a wonderful day of the Opening night of the “Kids Art Exhibition” – at 7.00 pm in the Deep River Library . Sitara participated and displayed 3 of her paintings and a ” paper Marché ” Nemo (fish)
Nina (Sitara’s mom) posted the following on her Facebook on Tuesday 25 August 2015 :
Opening night of the “Kids Art Exhibition”. Congratulations to all the young Artists and their Instructor Olga Nazarkina. What talent we have in our community!.!
Grandparents are very proud of Sitara and her abilities.
Her dad could not attend as he had to go out of town on business.
Sachin was all excited – dressed up with a tie and really enjoyed the evening .
Lots of people attended the function and as the exhibit was for art work (mostly paintings) from many young artists – all students of Olga Nazarkina.
All participating artists also received their Certificates for participation.
Tuesday 25 August 2015
Here is a very happy news story; A message on Nina’s Facebook page .
” I am sitting in the other room eavesdropping on the kids….they are lying on their bellies and Sitara is helping Sachin read through a bunch of books….helping him sound out words and work through the harder words “.
An excellent brother (younger) and sister (older) team.
Thursday 27 August 2015 to Sunday 30 August 2015
Both Sitara and Sachin were dropped at nana/nani home to spend the weekend at Deep River with their nana and nani – as their parents were celebrating their 11 year wedding anniversary – as they were going to Ottawa (on Friday ) for the weekend and splurge for celebration. Nana dropped Sunjay 9In the afternoon ) at Petawawa – where Nina works on Fridays -so both he and Nina then can go to Ottawa from there.
During the weekend (from Thursday to Sunday) – the kids had a great time with their nana/nani and of course their nana /nani had great time with their grandkids . They played many board games ( Torture, Monopoly , and checkers) . Also Sitara painted her fabric elephant ( nana/nani had given her for her birthday gift)- using fabric crayons . Sachin had his nana read stories from a story book ( 365 days Stories ) and both the kids were very much in doing their “homework” – writing practice and maths .
On Saturday nana worked with them to build “popsicle” bridges – Sitara using normal popsicle sticks and Sachin having coloured popsicle sticks. This project went along till Sunday morning as glue takes time to dry . Bridge members were held by clothespins (provided by nani) . Later in the evening Sitara created a house using blocks – having nana giving her inspiration.
In between time – Sachin played on nana’s computer ( he likes to go to Shopkins site) . Nana had shown him how to access the site and now he types on ‘google” and get to the site -not needing nana’s help . Great for a 6 year old – independently using the computer. Also both watched TV – children’s programs.
On Sunday afternoon all went to the marina park in Deep River – kids played on the bars and slides but also walked to the lighthouse and along Ottawa River -collecting rocks and shells.
Their parents returned from Ottawa at about 9.00 pm and all spent some time together and by 10.00 pm they had gone to Mackey to their home .
Tuesday 01 September 2015
This day the schools started in Deep River . So both Sitara and Sachin were transported to school by their mom (from Mackey) and after that their mom had free time at the Pine Point Beach (Deep River) with other moms . After school , the kids and mom came over to nana/nani home for dinner – also joined by their dad after his work.
Sachin got a lovely jersey and a card (from nana/nani but delivered by his big sister Sitara) – to encourage and boost his morale – for getting/graduating into 1st Year in the primary stream.
Wednesday 02 September 2015
This is a momentous time/day for both Sitara and Sachin- as they will be taking the school bus straight from Mackey – no need to come over to the baby-sitter home in Deep River (Jeannette) any more .
This is what their mom posted on her Facebook page on Wednesday 2 September 2015
” Put the kids on the bus MYSELF for the first time Ever! OK. Now I get it. This is the first time I have had emotions when my kids went to school. Today is like their first day of school ever for me. Feeling sad and empty nested “
The kids arrived safely to school though a bit late as the school bus had to pick many other kids en route – more than they had expected. The kids came back home on the school bus this day – and talking to Sachin on phone he seemed happy for the experience and so taking all new in the stride.
Note: Maya (in Toronto) will be starting her Junior KG oncoming Tuesday 8 September 2015 – after the Labour Day holiday.
Thursday 03 September 2015
Both Sitara and Sachin were picked up from school by their mom . Sitara went to her art class while Sachin was at the bank (with his mom) to deposit his piggy bank money . After that they all came over to nana/nani home for dinner (also joined by their dad after his work). After dinner they all went to Deep River Arena – for registration in various kids’ activities in Deep River in the coming months – while nana/nani went for a bridge game at the Lawn Bowling Club.
Friday 04 September 2015
The kids went to Toronto driven by their parents in the VW Passat car – to participate in a program organised by their mom’s friend Priyanka and do some touristy things – for kids to have fun.
They were to stay at SunirMama home though SunirMama, ShannonMami, Maya and Kieran were to go to the cottage ( ShannonMamis’ parents. cottage) and thus miss them.
However, it so happened they got to meet their Mama/Mami on Monday 07 September as Maya/Kieran ( and their parents) were back from the cottage before Sitara/Sachin were to return to Mackey ( again in their parents’ VW Passat) that day . Note: The returned to Mackey late at night.
Here what was posted by their mom on her Facebook – about a visit to CN Tower in Toronto
” 360 Restaurant and Top of the CN Tower – Great views and lots of fun for the kids watching the planes take off and land at the Toronto Island Airport! ”
Here what was posted by their mom on her Facebook – about a visit to Canadian National Exhibition Tower in Toronto
“CNE (The Canadian National Exhibition) – so fun….and what a fantastic air show! ”
Here what was posted by their mom on her Facebook – about a visit to FanExpo in Toronto
” FanExpo Day One – Cleopatra (Sitara) and the Iron(man) Jedi (Sachin) ”
” FanExpo Day 2 – The Queen of Hearts (Sitara) and OptimusPrime (Sachin) – Highlight was the My Little Pony Show and the Kids Starwars Hour! The Awesome “Bronie” was a bonus!! ”
Finally another Facebook posting by their mom:
” 2 days at FanExpo, 1 day at the Canadian National Exhibition, Dinner at the 360 and a trip to the top of the CN tower….not to mention countless rides on the TTC (much to the kids pleasure!). I’d say this was a FANTASTIC long-weekend!! (Especially because Sitara has now decided that she finally likes the City!) ”
Tuesday 08 September 2015
Maya’s first day at her Junior KG in Toronto near their home . This is what her mom posted on her Facebook page;
” All ready for her first day of junior kindergarten! Maya was all smiles; I shed a few tears. ”
She also said the following as a response to one of the kind comments from a friend.
” When she first woke up this morning, she announced she had decided she didn’t want to go to JK and would rather go back to preschool. Once she got over that bump, she got excited! ”
Wednesday 09 September 2015
Sachin’s mom posted the following on her Facebook page :
Sept 9, 2015
Me: “Sachin, what was the most awesome thing you did at school today?”
Sachin: “Oh, well, that is a hard question since everything I did was awesome”