Tuesday 1 April 2014

The kids (Sitara and Sachin ) came to nana/nani home – after their swimmimg session (after school) at Mackenzie pool
They came with their dad (and also nani who had gone to the pool to watch them). Their mom was working to-day so she did could not make it to nana/nani home. Once they were in fresh clothing – they had dinner with their nana/nani – their dad joined the dinner a bit later -as he had to go out for a while. Nana played a bit with kids and read a book which was brought by Sachin from the school library – a fun story about big construction machines .

Nana then went away to play his usual Tuesday bridge Card game but nani and their dad looked after the kids and had them ready before going to Mackey . In between, nani entertained the kids and one point called them to come to her as she has a “treat” in her hands for them. The kids were perked up bit to see what the treat was – however Sitara stopped and said wait a minute – I am sure it is your ” April Fool ” joke . Nani was surprised that Sitara had the understanding about the April Fool fun day – this day on April 1 . It turned out that nani was using her usual granny way to get the kids to come and take/eat the grapes in her hand .

Wednesday   2 April 2014

Kieran sporting a “Mohawk” hairdo .

His photo was posted by his mom on her Facebook   on Wednesday 2 April 2014 .                                          

He has gone     for   sporting fashion hairdo   – not even two weeks old and.  

His Bapuji’s eldest brother (Kantilal) in Kenya posted ” Very smart looking baby “

Friday  4 April 2014

Kieran’s mom sent a Kieran’s photo (photo of the day) with the following comment :

“ I’ve been trying to capture a smile with eyes open, but so far no luck! Sleepy smiles are cute too 🙂 “

Kieran is a very relaxed baby   – always smiling – of course sometimes with eyes closed – as he is only   a couple of weeks old .     Kieran is showing the similar traits as his sister, Maya   and his cousins (Sitara & Sachin Mistry of Mackey, ON ) – all are always in smiles and happy mood .

Good fun for grandparents – and of course for parents too.

Saturday 5 April 2014

Kieran’s Heather Auntie and Ryan Uncle visited him and Maya at their home in Toronto .

A photo  was taken   —   both Auntie/Uncle (together) holding Kieran in their arms .  

Immediately his mom floated the photo to Kieran’s immediate family members for enjoying this photo full of family love.

To which Kieran’s Bapuji   ( Pravin ) commented   on 7 April 2014  

” Kieran is just enjoying it and relaxed.”

To which Heather responded on the same day

 “Pravin, we are practicing!     Ryan and I are expecting a little cousin for Maya and Kieran in October! “

To that   Pravin replied  on 7   April 2014    

” That makes the photo ( Kieran in your hands) doubly beautiful “

NOTE:   This is really a very good news story . Both Maya and Kieran will have a cousin to coddle and play with nearby.

Tuesday   8 April 2014

This day is Sitara’s and Sachin’s nana’s   74th   birthday

and that makes also Maya’s and Kieran’s Bapuji’s 74th birthday .

The day proceeded as below:

1- Phone at about 8.00a.m – when Bapuji was settled for breakfast – Maya, Kieran & parents singing happy birthday

2 – In the morning nana/Bapuji went for shopping at Valumart and them stopped over at the Post Office. What he got – a surprise – a Birthday card from Maya/Kieran and parents . What an excellent timing.

Perfect

3- Before that – the day before in the evening, Sitara phoned from Mackey – to confirm what was my favourite color. Nani said to her the my volr was orange and then I had said -red.

4 – Nana/nani (Bapuji/Ba) had a great party lunch with 4 of our friends – Harshi & Joe being in 80s class and Malay, myself and nani in mid-seventy class while the youngest Jagdishbhai -68.

Cakes – wine etc

5 – Sitara/Sachin came home after their swimming session at Mackenzie-with their parents. Sitar immediately came to nana – lounging on his lazy chair in the Recreation Room and got on his lap – wake him up -changed the channel on TV to 553 – children’s program from nana’s NDTV . Soon after Sachin came down and also got on nana’s lap . Both watched TV with nana sqooshed in the middle

6 – Then all had dinner – again wine, sweets and talkative Sachin.

7 – After that Sitara got nana to read a book for her and from there both were enticed to the dinner table – for muffin and celebrating birthday.

Sachin had baked muffin for nana’s birthday All joined in the partaking of muffins ( and decorating these at the table) – then a cake -chocolate cake . Both Sitara and Sachin helped to cut it and distribute to all at the dinner table – so systematically.

8 – Kids gave nana- birthday cards made by them. Sachin had red in the front and Sitara had orange. So thoughtful of them .Inside both wrote in their own handwriting Happy Birthday -74

9 – To top it all – both sang Happy Birthday song in French – so profound – good voice and rhythm. This was over and above the Birthday song in English – which Sachin kept on singing here and there .

10- Then nana went to play his usual Tuesday Duplicate Bridge and all said bye very lovingly.

On her Facebook page  -what Nina posted:

Happy Birthday to my Super Awesome Daddy!!!!! Love you!

Monday 14 April 2014

This day Kieran went visiting his great grandparents in Huntsville, Ontario   – with their mom and Grandma, Kathy.   –   parents of their Grandma, Kathy

Kathy Posted on her Facebook   –

Kieran meets his Great-Grandma in Huntsville!  

This visit is special and brings joy in heart.

Thursday 17 April 2014

This day both Sitara and Sachin went by car with their parents to Toronto – to their SunirMama and ShannonMami home – to welcome Kieran -their newest and youngest cousin and also to play with Maya. This visit   will strengthen their bond between cousins .

Saturday 19 April 2014 – all cousins spent time together at Kathy/Doug home- celebrated Kathy’s birthday .   The photos of all cousins together were very joyous and lifted up the spirit of the grandparents in   Deep River.     Note:   besides joining all in a Birthday song for Kathy – both Sitara and Sachin together sang a birthday song in French – all joyously and bubbly..

Monday 21 April 2014 – the kids (Sitara & Sachin) returned back to Mackey   – driven in car by their parents .   They spent tumultuous few   days with their cousins (and their parents)   – Maya and Kieran – in Toronto. They coddled Kieran very lovingly   and played with Maya.

Tuesday 29 April 2014

This day was very uplifing as Sachin received an award at his   school auditorium   ( Mackenzie Community School in Deep River) for being the optimist in his KG class.

Also this day Kieran’s mom sent by e-mail to family members a very gripping photo of Kieran . She titled it as ”   Bright eyes boy “

She stated in her e-mail the following:

” Kieran is getting much more alert and has started giving me some smiles (adorable and very gratifying!) I have captured the beginning of a smile here 🙂 “

To that his Bapuji ( Kieran’s paternal   granddad in Deep River ) responded :

wow.

He has sparkles in his eyes.

He says he is fortunate to have a sister Maya – who plays with him always.

He says he loves his mommy very much.

He says my dad is the greatest.

And to top it all –   Kathy – Kieran’s maternal grandma in Toronto) responded :

 ” Shannon, you have captured a beautiful moment and Pravin has captured all the thoughts and emotions that go with it! Beautiful! K “

Saturday 3 May 2014

To-day both Sitara and Sachin took part in a ” I can Swim”   swim-a-thon   at Mackenzie Pool in Deep River – to help raise money – see details below:

Swim-A-Thon 2014

Swim-A-Thon is a team building event for Candu Swim Club. After our Saturday swim we have a huge team breakfast with everyone having a great time! We raise money with Swim-A-Thon to provide up to date equipment for our swimmers. WE are currently raising money to purchase new starting blocks. The goal will be the greater part of $40,000.

Both nana/nani attended this event – going there early in morning at 8.00 am – sat throughout when both Sitara and Sachin were participating in the swim – their’s started at 8.15 a.m and lasted for an   hour.   Of course their parents were there   amongst many kids and their parents.

Sitara did 50 laps (long ones) and Sachin did 28 – also long ones.

After a nice pancake breakfast – both nana/nani returned home and the kids (Sitara and Sachin) went with their parents to Petawawa for their Gym session.   In the evening all are to come to nana/nani home. Kids are to have dinner at nana/nani home – while their parents will go out for dinner to a restaurant ( Santa Fe in Deep River )   before going to a play ” The Three Musketeers ” being played at Mackenzie Childs Auditorium – put on by the Deep River Players Group.   Their nana/nani also went to enjoy the play yesterday – on Friday 2 May 2014.

Sunday 4 May 2014

This day nana/nani went to Mackey in the evening and had dinner there . After dinner – first nana/nani played with Sitara   – she wanted to build/erect   a palace from the Lagos   – having many pieces – tiny pieces and a few large ones. Nana enjoyed that very much as he completed one   (top) part of the palace while Sitara did the major part -with nani helping wehn needed.   Sitara has such a keen observation sense from the sketches (provided with Lego unit) -she can correctly pick out what pieces are requierd and how to build the parts and then put all together and the whole Palace well.   She is a builder with keen   attention and acumen.

After that nana played with Sachin – again with another Lego Unit – with many pieces . After that Sachin wanted to build the train- set – which he retrieved from the basement and then assembled the tracks – adding musical sleeper over the tracks.

All had great fun – then nana/nani returned back to Deep River.

Monday 5 May 2014

This day kids and their parents came to nana/nani place for dinner – and after dinner Sachin went – with his parents – for his FIRST soccer game .   He has an orange Jersey   ( T-shirt) with Tim Horton logo and number 1. After his   soccer game,   when Sachin came over to nana/nani place – he was visibly excited and showed his happiness participating in the soccer game. This   lifted up Sitara’s curiosity for the game.

Sunday 4 May 2014

This day Maya went out –she and the family were treated by her dad to a refreshment/drink at a Coffee House on Yonge Street near their home in Toronto.

Her mom sent an e-mail titled   ” Like father, like daughter ” on this day ( 4 May 2014)   with a witty comment :-   ” Sunir drinks his coffee and reads the paper, while Maya drinks her hot chocolate and looks at the comics 🙂 “

This is what her Baa ( Grandma in Deep River) gave (by e-mail) a hearty comment on the same day

Hi Shannon, Sunir, Maya, Kieran:

Maya is a good companion for daddy at the reading table. How studious, Maya.
Love it.

Baa.

Tuesday 6 May 2014

This day kids and their parents came to nana/nani place for dinner – and after dinner Sitara   went – with her parents – for her FIRST soccer game .   She was gunning to go after she saw Sachin’s excitement after his soccer experience.

Sachin was a bit sullen to-day. He was sulking and did not come   to dinner table fir supper.   His nana coaxed him but he did not relent at first.   It so happened that he had hurt himself ( on the head) at his swimming session – before coming to nana/nani place for dinner . After about hald an hour of coaxing – nana changed the subject and remined him   of good games they had together at Mackey during   previous Sunday . Nana & Sachin had played with lego game and also with train tracks.

That changed the dynamics and nana asked him whether he would like to play with nana now – with any toys he likes. He kind of got a bit energised and picked   a couple of puzzles ( one of them   –   Thomas train – his favourite) . This brought him out of his pain and anguish – and after playing with puzzles ( he can make these well ) – he agreed to go with his nani for dinner and then complete his homework from the school .   Nana left for his weeekly Bridge Card game when Sachin had gone for dinner – after hugging him and saying bye to him. Sachin gave a good hearted bye. That made nana very happy.

This day Sitara went for her FIRST soccer game .   Her Jersey colour is green with a number 3 .

Between Tuesday 6 May 2014 and Wednesday 14 May 2014.

Both Maya and Kieran were bonding very well and on 12th May – Kieran was 2 months old – growing normally.   He went /rolled over to be on his tommy .

Both kids   (Maya and Kieran) had a good Mother’s Day – enjoyed partying at their Grandma Kathy’s home on Sunday 11 May 2014 in Toronto – where they were three generations of mothers.       Their mom, her mom and their Grandpa (Doug’s) mom.

Both Maya and Kieran will miss their daddy – as he has gone to USA for a few days

At about the same time – both Sitara and Sachin also were celebrating the Mother’s Day at their nana/nani home in Deep River. They made a nice combined Mother’s Day card for their mom and Nani – ( together).   A great art piece to be tucked away in elders’ memeory.

Both Sitara and Sachin will miss their daddy – as he has gone to Vienna, Austria for a week.

Here is what Grandpa in Deep River ( Bapuji for Maya/ Kieran and Nana for Sitara/ Sachin) wrote in an e-mail he sent on Sunday 2014 May 11

On Monday 12 May 2014

Here is what Bapuji wrote in response to   a photo sent by Kieran’s mom ( on 12 May   2014) when he became 2 months old :-

So beautiful – handsome- cute -smiling – cheerful – powerful.

Congrats for being 2 months old.

Kieran – we celebrate with all the joy in our hearts.

Looking good in blue .

Bapuji ( Grandpa in Deep River)

Wednesday 14 May 2014

This day Kieran spent some time with a playgroup in the neighborhood.   We (the family members) had a glimpse of his fun day with playgroup – when his mom sent a photo of his outing . This is what his mom said :

Kieran was hanging out at playgroup with his baby buddies this morning. He is the youngest in the group but getting bigger… he weighed in at 13 lb 4 oz at his two-month doctor’s visit yesterday! (only a little less than what Maya weighed at four months!)

Friday 16 May 2014

Maya and Kieran are going to spend the 2014 Victoria week-end at   Kimbercote – a recreation palyground .  

Since its early beginnings in the foothills of Caledon, the organization has been dedicated to practicing and promoting environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and spiritual exploration. The history of the organization provides a valuable insight into intentional communities in the post-war era, while the recent newsletters detail the current activities.

It is Kieran’s first time out in wilderness.

Canoeing on the Beaver River.       An e-mail dated 19 May 2014 from Kieran’s mom – with   a photo showing him and Maya   enjoying a ride in a canoe .     This is Kieran’s first   canoe experience.

This is what Kieran’s mom said in her e-mail:

I hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend! We had a great weekend at Kimbercote Farm… lots of playing outside and a little canoe ride too. Thanks for the infant life jacket, Aunt Eri!

Sunday 18 May 2014

This is an important day.     Sitara learnt to ride a bike without any support.   Her dad came back from Vienna yesterday and to-day he took Sitara out ( I think at Driftwood Park area   – near their home in Mackey) for helping her to learn to ride a bike without any support.   Nana had helped her mom yesterday to remove the   training wheels from the bike – and did   a bit of practice run with Sitara trying to bike without those.

Congratulations Sitara!     Good productive 2014 Victoria weekend   for Sitara & family.

Note: This week was pleasant and exciting one for the   kids’ nana ( or Bapuji)   as   his prediction about the results of the 2014 Indian Election came true. Way back about one month ago he had predicted that Narendra Modi and his party ( Bhartiya Janata party – BJP) will win 333 seats in the Indian Parliament   and Congress will be decimated to 44 seats . The election results were out on Friday 16 May 2014 – and lo Behold!   BJP won 334 seats and Congress was routed to only 44 seats.

Tuesday 27 May 2014

This day Nina begun a one-year contract with Pembroke Hospital to work there as   a Hospital Pharmacist . So she will be gone for the day – and kids’ evening program ( swimmimg etc) will need a bit of help from their nani.   Their nana usually is not needed to help except to remain around if aneed arises. However, Kid’s dad is always there after his work complete at about 5.00 pm.

Note: The kids’s dad (Sunjay) took part in a 10 km marathon run in Ottawa on Saturday   24 May 2014   and met a   1 hr mark.   Both Sitara and Sachin were at hand (with their mom) in Ottawa to give a cheerful support for their dad’s endeavour.

Their SunirMama sent a congratulatory e-mail dated   27 May 2014.

Sunjay, congrats on breaking the 1h barrier! Wow

Thursday 29 May 2014

This day is a memorable one for Sitara. After having a session of soccer at Grouse park (in Deep River) she had a haircut – have her hair shortened to “booby” style. She was always very famous for her long silky hair and looking very cute but now she has new avatar – and looks stunningly cute.

On   Nina’s Facebook of Thursday 29 May 2014 , Sitara’s mom posted

” New Do! She is so excited to try something different ” – and her dad also shown a happy face icon along with it.

Her mom also stated that ” I am so proud of her. It was her idea and she is donating her hair “

From Thursday 29 May 2014 to Wednesday 4 June 2014

This past week was of growth and general fun with kids.

Maya has been an observant girl and learns from her parents . She watches her brother getting his nourishment as he is taken on lap by his mom and obtains his feed.   So Maya also tries to copy that action trying to feed her toy baby.     Maya “nurses”her baby – her mom’s e-mail informs.

On Saturday 31 May 2014   – Maya coddles her baby brother – Kieran-   and takes him on her lap and smiles and seems to wish a “happy Weekend” to her brother and parents.       Maya is growing up faster   and communicates well on the phone to her Ba/bapuji .     Kieran also is growing up and always has   a smile – since his birth time and that quality continues every single day .

This weekend Maya and Kieran joined their parents to visit their dad friend in Hamilton

Their dad posted a photo of Maya with a bird resting on her head (at Bayfront Park) . This is what her dad posted on Facebook :

“Hmm, why is there a cockatoo on my head? (Maya met a man walking his cockatoo flock at Bayfront Park today)”   .     Her mom explained by her entry on to the Facebook — “Their wings were clipped so he “walked” them by carrying the birds on his shoulders.”

————-

Sitara and Sachin are taking very well playing soccer in the evening after school BUT also are also conscience of finishing their homework – always at their nana/nani place . They spend their summer weekday evenings at nana/nani as they   go for soccer – Sachin one day and next day Sitara . So alternatively each kid spend time with nana/nani when the otherone has gone to soccer field with his/her parents – after dinner .

Both kids like to play with nana/nani BUT also watch TV – children program. They have grown sufficiently – so each one can use the TV remote to start and turnoff TV and also choose the channel to watch. They have also learnt to play recorded episodes of theiri programs.   Sitara learnt this almost two years ago but Sachin is now also have cecome conversnt in the use of TV remote. Sitara also has started using her nana’s head set   – her nana using a headset so sound from TV can be transmitted (by wireless) to his ears – as her nana has lost hearing on his right ear and his left ear has a diminished capacity.   So the kids are expermenting and learning new gadgets and becoming more confident.

At times , both Sitara and Sachin also want their nana to read children books to them – sometimes alone and at other times both together.   This becomes part of multiple activities – when at nana/nani home . From being coddled, fed, doing homework, do art and craft, and playing with toys ( legos, cars etc) , watching TV and having books read. Sometimes each one may want to help in cooking or decorating cakes for birthdays or other celebrations.     By the way both kids can sing   ” Happy Birthday ” song both in English and French – well coordinated and with pleasurable gusto.

There is library/collection   of various children books – each kid knows every book thereto and have these read to them by mostly nana but also by their nani – though most of the time their nani looks after their nourishment   and comfort as well as doing art/craft/cooking   activities Their nani is very particular about kids needs – they have their own utensils, their drawer space in the kitchen -with their own hand towels etc.

For the reading,   two books with multiple stories in them have been added in last few months . These are :

1) The Bed Time Treasury written by Derek Hall, Alison Morris and Louisa Somerville   -with some 40 stories

2)     365 Bedtime Stories – A Story a day – by Disney Press .

At part of the school programme   – Sitara is in the reading   of a series of books   -titled ” The Magic of Treehouse “

Note:   On Sunday 1 June 2014 – this is what Sitara’s mom posted on her Facebook :

“Sitara: Sitting reading her homework book bursts out in a scream. “I’m having a great day!”

Gotta love that she loves reading sooooo much!”

Friday 6 June 2014

When nana woke up in the morning ( at 5.30 am ) -when he came down he finds on the kitchen table the following note from kid’s nani :-

” Please go to Sitara’s room with your camera and take a couple of pictures of the ‘ Block Tower ” . Go slowly please so that the fragile Tower does not collapse “

So nana did that at immediately   (around 6.00 AM ). Photos have been taken   and one photo has already been set up as a desktop background for the computer.

Note : Nani has a keen eye and immense love for the grandkids. Besides she earlier was a high school teacher in Kenya -before we migrated to Canada in Mrach 1974.   So she has that great capacity to   understand children’s creativity and also she knows that nana can be a bit sloppy -so the indtructions – to go slowly in the room -to avoid any collapse of the Tower – built by Sitara and Sachin   (though mainly by Sitara) – playing together on Thursday evening. It was a tall tower built from   squares at the bottom   and then with circular piece above that and topped by another smaller squares.

Well the after about week (around 11 June 2014) , the tower was finally pulled down by the kids – but then subsequently Sachin had gone in Sitara’s room by himself and re-build toer himself alone – though this time the tower was a bit different and shorter in height – Sachin’s creation . It is known now taht Sachin does copy his older sister in many things. Thats why he has developed interest in reading – as Sitara is a very keen reader of books .   Sachin also sings songs – remembering them – as Sitara does. Both make a good pair when singing kiddie songs , birthday songs and other songs.     However Sitara also looks to Sachinfor som einspiration . She   went to play soccer -after noting thst Sachin enjoys that game .Thats makes an excellent   sister/brother team – each one hugging each   other many times.

So past week we were fortunate to get various photos of Maya and Kieran together – photios taken by their mom or by their Toronto grandma . Both seem to like a united team always . Both smiling and enjoying each others company . Kieran just turned 3 months   old but his smiles so captivating   and twinke in his eyes verify his love for his sister, Maya.

Friday 13 June 2014

This day of 13 th Friday   was   a bit worrysome one. The Mackenzie Community School called at about 4.00 pm that both Sitarand Sachin did not get on the school bus   -which takes them to their baby-sitter’s (Jennette) home in Deep River – from where they are then picked by their mom (or sometimes by their dad)   .   Then their mom went to school and picked them up .

Saturday 14 June 2014

Maya participated   in activities during Yonge Lawrence Village Day .

Maya had a great time at the “village day”, including face-painting and bouncy castles!       posted in an e-mail ( with a photo of Maya -with her face paint) sent by her mom – same day

Friday 20 June 2014

This day was a special one . First Sitara was partcipating in presenting plays   to audience of stidents (Grade 1 ) and their parents. Both nana/nanai went to watch the plays at 2.10 pm   at Mackenzie Community Center . Sitara led the third play – she was the main person   reading   a story line from a book ( The Tortoise and Hare)   . Her voice was clear and well projected.   Her dad also came to watch the plays. Her mom managed to come – but just after Sitara   had completed her play – This is because her mom had gone/accompanied   with Sachin and his KG class to visit the Hugli farm in Pembroke.

Saturday 21 June 2014

When the kids came home t o nana/nani house in the afternoon   ( they were to go to a party to one of their parents’   friends home   in Deep River) – Sitara viewed the video of her play and others   – video taken by her nana with his Sony digital camera.   Sachin also stopped by for   a few minutes to view the video on nana’s computer.

Monday 23 June 2014

Sitara got her “Preliminary School Report card ” for her Grade 1class   completion at Mackenzie Community School -Elementary,   in Deep River.   Report signed by class teacher Maria Horn and Vice Principal     Cathy Kyle.

Of course we are very proud of her – she got   Excellent (E) for almost all Learning Skills and Habits.   And she obtained most As and a few B+ for Strengths in various subjects.

Few choice notes from that report.

–   Sitara has demonstrated excellent academic growth and developed outstanding work habits , behaviours and personal goals.

– Sitara often looks for and acts on new ideas and opportunities for learning.

– for Language – She consistently selected and ordered main ideas and supporting details using simple graphic organizers with considerable effectiveness.

– French – Sitara consistently demonstrates positive interaction during French class.

– Mathematics – Sitara regularly demonstrated the ability to estimate, measure   (ie. by placing non-standard units repeatedly , without overlap or gaps) and record the lengths,heights, and distances ( e.g   a book is about 10 paper clips wide ; a pencil is about 3 toothpicks long).

Sitara   identified and described various coins and stated theor value.

Science and Technology –   Sitara demonstrated thorough understanding that energy is something taht is needed to make things happen , and that the sun is the principle source of energy for the earth.

Monday 23 June 2014

Maya and Kieran have gone to their grandpa’s cottage during the weekend   – with their parents and have been having a lovely time .   Maya was in the lake with her Grandpa ( Toronto) – enjoying the swim -all assisted by her Grandpa.

Her mom sent an e-mail on Monday 23 June – with two photos.

One with Kieran –   sunbathing (sort of)

and the other with Maya in the lake   with her Grandpa

This is what their mom stated in the e-mail

Thanks for a great weekend at the cottage! Here is Maya swimming with “Grandpa Pie” and Kieran relaxing in the lounge chair.

Wednesday 25 June 2014

Well The little fello have now graduated to sit on a Bumbo chair.   That is Kieran . Wow, he is growing fast. This is what his mom said in an e-mail with his photo (him sitting in a bumbo chair)

” First time in the Bumbo chair   ”

Friday 27 June 2014

Both Maya and Kieran are to fly to Seattle starting to-day , USA with their parents and are expected to   return back to Toronto on Wednesday 2 July 2014.

Saturday 28 June 2014

Both Sitara and Sachin are to go to Toronto with their parents by car – to attend a wedding of an ex- Deep River resident   – Shelly – whose parents have moved to United Arab Republic on a job   assignment .   Shelly’s brother Arun had earlier   moved to Dubai   for his career.     Shelly is now resident of Toronto.     Both nana and nani will also attend the said wedding but drive separately in their car – though may go together as part of two-car convoy.   All are expected back in Deep Riverr ( Mackey)   on coming Tuesday ( 1 July 2014).     Wedding was in Mississauga – so we all stayed at a hotel on Airport Road – which was close to the wedding venue.

Maya and Kieran in Seattle

As mentioned earlier – both Maya and Kieran had flown to Seattle with their parents on   Friday 27 June 2014.

So on Saturday   28 June 2014, the family went out for a look-see of Seattle  . Both Maya and Kieran in their elements enjoying the sights.

Their mom sent a photo by e-mail dated 28 June 2014 -which also said the following:

 ”   Here are Sunir and the kids outside of the original Starbucks location in Pike Place Market! We are having a great time in Seattle so far (despite the fact that due to the time difference, Maya woke up at 2:55am local time and refused to go back to sleep… fortunately there is plenty of coffee on this city!) Later today we are taking the monorail to the science centre, which should be fun. xoxo Shannon “.

The family were kept in the loop when kid’s mom sent another e-mail on Tuesday 1 July 2014 ( Canada Day)  -with two photos .   One photo with the whole family at the top of the Space Needle  (where they were attending an  Olark party.  Olark is the company for which Sunir is a senior member.    The second photo was with Maya was enjoying a make- believe Fire Station at the  Children’s Museum .

Below is what Shannon wrote in her  e-mail.

”     Hello everyone,

We are having a great time in Seattle, doing some sightseeing and going to some Olark events.Yesterday Sunir was working so I took the kids to the Children’s Museum (first photo below). On Sunday we had an Olark party at the top of the Space Needle (second photo).Tonight we have hired a babysitter so Sunir and I can join in the “Iron Chef” group dinner.Maya had her latest “sleep-in” today… to 5:30am (better than the first few days, but still pretty early!!) Kieran is a super-baby and has slept through the night until 5:30 or 6:00am every morning 🙂
We are arriving home tomorrow evening. Talk to you all soon!

Love, Shannon, Sunir, Maya and Kieran
xoxo

Sitara and Sachin in Mississauga

This was a weekend when both  Sitara and Sachin got to a wedding held at a Sikh Gurudwara  (The Ontario Khalsa Darbar ) .   Both kids and parents travelled to Mississauga on Saturday 28 June 2014 by their rental car  (VW – silver in colour) . They used a rental car as their VW Passat (blue station wagon car) was in a body building shop/garage in Ottawa – to have the most parts of the body repaired as it had acquired  so much rust -that the warranty clause was mobilised with the VW company and thus the car was getting an upgrade.

Nana/nani also went separately by their car – a 2001 Caravan minivan ( maroon Colour).

Nana/nani left early from Deep River -on the way they stopped for few minutes at Mackey to say hullo to kids (& of course their parents ). Kids and parents started their journey a bit late in the morning.

Both travelled ( separately at different time) using the Hwy 11 ( North Bay -Toronto) leading to Hwy 400 and then to Hwy 401 and swinging to Hurontario Street in Mississauga -arriving at the hotel ( Monte Carlo Inn  – AirPort branch)  on Edwards Blvd. Nana/nani got room 210 while kids (& parents) obtained room 209 – the adjoining one to nana/nani’s room . So the family was quite close to each other.

Well Saturday there was only a minimal interaction between nana/nana and the kids – as nana/nani had gone out for dinner when kids arrived in Mississauga.  However, before they went to sleep there was some time to play with the kids .

Sunday 29 June 104 -was the wedding day at the Sikh Gurudwara -The Ontario Khalsa Darbar  on Dixie Road.

Both Sitara and Sachin were well dressed for the occasion and as per Sikh tradition they had their heads covered – Sitara with her scarf and Sachin with a special red scarf that Shelly’s parents had brought for all males in the bride’s  wedding party .

It was fun to see how both kids related to the  need of the social interaction required in wedding function.   One meets all the old and new friends -many who had travelled from Deep River area for the wedding but also others who had earlier moved away from Deep River area. Shelly was brought up in Deep River for few years when her dad was working    at AECL – along with many from Indian background  who had become their friends

Sunday   29 June 2014

After wedding and lunch ( Guru ka langar) at the Gurudwara   – all   went out to visit Sunjay’s  Mama home (where Mami was home) .       Only Mami was home but the kids had a great time playing freely with toys   (Mami has toys at her home for her 3 year old   granddaughter – whenever she comes over to their home – which is most weekdays as Mami looks after the grandchild   – who is dropped at her grandma place when her parents go out to work)

From there all went to visit a Senior lady (ma) – mother of Sunjay’s Mama – at her younger son’s   home.

Lo Behold !   Nina discovered a Mulberry tree attheir front yard .   Surprise .     We had Mulberry trees in Kenya – here they are few – an occasional one . Nana was really delighted to see a Mulberry tree . Both Kids were all excited and they had a great time picking  and eating the berries .

After went to MacDonald (on Winston Churchill Road ) for dinner  – there was play room there  -which both Sitara  and Sachin enjoyed very much – interacting with other kids so freely and casually.

After coming back to Hotel- Sachin played  cards with nana – picking cards from a batch on the bed and matching with the cards in hand – he is getting good at knowing the cards and matching these and winning .

Monday   30 June 2014

This is the day the Wedding Reception   is organised by Shelly/PritPaul and families in the evening at Grand Empire Banquet hall in Brampton .

Thus as there was time in hand,   in the morning the kids went with their parents to visit a friend  and nana /nani went to Brampton separately to buy an Indian outfit for Maya .   In the afternoon , the kids also came over with their parents to the dress store in Brampton – as  nana/nani were also wanted to buy an Indian outfit for Sitara/Sachin. This was accomplished -and suitable outfits were found and procured.

All came back to the hotel – rested a bit and then got ready to go to the reception.   There were many friends apart from the bride and bridegroom and their families.   The cocktail hour was well spent communicating with friends   and many photos were taken by all.   Both Sitara and Sachin enjoyed circulating – with ease and socially very adept   . The kids are very resourceful – Sitara played with Roopa   (Deep River girl) – colouring sketches   in her (Sitara’s) book   – Roopa very much supportive and spending time with her.   Sachin wanted the deck of cards that nana had carried with him – so kids can have something to play with . Both Sitara and sachin knew that Kevin (Deep River boy – recent high school graduate   -with many awards)   will play with tehm – a magic show with cards .   So   Sitara took the cards and they all assembled on a spiral staircase (going to the second floor)   and had great time – till all were called to take their seats for dinner and reception activities.   There was great dinner and a Sikh Bangra type dance by a troupe , a few speeches and then floor dance. Kids just enjoyed all the activities – specially   the   Sikh Bangra type dance(s)   . The dances   were   very captivating for them -so they ambled along near the dance floor and sat down on floor there watching the dance (s) , Sitara letting Sachin to lie down on her lap . What a caring sister and loving brother.

The reception was continuisng with floor dance going on – but kids, parents a nd nana/nani left about mid-night to get back to the Hotel.

Tuesday 1 July 2014

All left for home – kids with their parents in the rental car – driving along Hwy 11 (towards North Bay ) and nana/nani took different route – driving in their Caravan Minivan – along Hwy 401   via Belleville.

In the evening , kids went to a party in Deep River- at their patrents’ friends home – celebrating Canada Day and then at about 930 pm – nana/nani joined them at the Deep Rivercampus to watch the fireworks at the Ottawa River.   Then all went home – kids to Mackey with parents and nana/nani to their home in Deep River.

Wednesday 12 March 2014

This is a golden day – when Kieran Douglas Knights Shah ( our grandson) was born early in the morning at 5.17 am of Wednesday 12 March 2014 in Toronto-   weighing 7 lb 10 oz. His father   (my son Sunir) and his mother   (Shannon – the daughter of Douglas Knights ) are so thrilled – now they have a ” millionaire ” family   – a daughter Maya ( 2 years +) and now   a son Kieran.

_______________

A write-up after his Ba/Bapuji   had gone to Toronto on Friday 14 March 2014 and returned back to Deep River on Friday 21 March 2014 – a tremendously fabulous week with Kieran, Maya and their parents.

——————–

Kieran Douglas Knights Shah

Born – on Wednesday 12 March 2014

Came home from hospital (in Toronto) on Thursday 13 March 2014

———————-

Ba/Bapiji got call from the Sunnybrook Hospital – by Shannon & Sunir at about 6.00 am on Wednesday 12 March 2014 – announcing the arrival of Kieran in the family. They also phoned other relations including Kieran’s Nina foi and SunjayFuva in Mackey . All were excited. Bapuji was up that morning and he did a pirouette and a dance jump   to express his happiness.

e-mail   from Shannon    dated March-14-14 11:16 AM   announcing   ” its   a boy “

”   Dear family,

Sunir and I are thrilled to welcome our son, Kieran Douglas Knights Shah, into our family. Kieran was born at 5:17am on March 12, weighing 7lb 10oz and measuring 20.5 inches long. He is a beautiful, healthy baby. We came home from the hospital yesterday and are enjoying life as a family of four. Maya is very proud in her new role as big sister, giving her baby brother lots of hugs and trying to show him all her toys. I have attached a few photos from the past couple of days. We look forward to introducing you to Kieran in person soon!

Lots of love,

Shannon, Sunir, Maya and Kieran       “

As mentioned in the above e-mail – Shannon/Sunir came home from the hospital on Thursday 13 March 2014 – a day after the delivery.   Maya was looked after by her Grandma (maternal grandma in Toronto) when Shannon and Sunir went to the Hospital at wee hour (~ 2.00 a.m) of Wednesday morning .   Maya remained a cool girl and visited her new little brother at the hospital during Wednesday late afternoon.

This is what her mom wrote in an e-mail sent at 7.16 pm 12 March 2014

“Maya met her new baby brother this afternoon. She gave him lots of hugs and squishes and then tried to give him a crayon and cover his sleepers in her new stickers! Kieran slept soundly throughout most of the encounter 🙂 “.

Kieran’s grandparents ( maternal) in Toronto and his Heather Auntie and Ryan Uncle visited Kieran at the hospital and pampered him and held him and rocked him in their hands.

This is what his grandma Kathy (maternal) in Toronto expressed posted on the Facebook   on 12 March 2014 :

His Ba/Bapuji (paternal grandparents) – who were ready to go over to Toronto since about a couple of weeks ( waiting for Kieran to come into this world ) decided to drive to Toronto on Friday 14 March 2014.

This gave the parents and Maya a day at home (on Thursday 13 March 2014) by themselves with the baby.

This is what Maya’s dad posted on his Facebook on Friday 14, 2014.

This is when Maya met Kieran for the first time. Maya immediately wanted to share her “Big Sister” present with Kieran by putting her new stickers on Kieran’s sleepers to welcome him to the world.

Needless to say, I was a very happy and proud Daddy to see the two siblings playing together from the first minute together.

P.S. Daddy also got a sticker. ”” withShannon Knights.

Ba/Bapuji arrived at Toronto at about 5.30 pm of Friday 14 March 2014 and immediately were greeted by Kieran and his mom, his dad and his sister Maya (who is 2 + years old). Ba/Bapuji held Kieran in their hands and  welcomed him by giving a kiss and a hug to the newest baby in the family .

A great jubilation was shown and Congratulations were passed between family members.

Saturday (15 March) – The family stayed home – Maya cooing the baby brother and   also a visit by Grandpa (maternal) for an hour or so.   Maya was all excited and wanted to touch her baby brother and pat him and offer him all her favourite stuffed toys.

Sunday (16 March) – There was a dinner party at Kieran’s grandparents home -so all went there in the evening .   Some of his   relatives from his mother’s side were there to welcome and coddle him .

Also a gift from his grandparents’ church was opened after dinner. That Sunday morning the Shawl   Ministry of the Fairlawn Avenue United Church ( to which his grandparents and mom also belong) held a good wishes prayer for welcoming Kieran . This Ministry hold   prayers (as and when necessary) as a way ” to convey our love and prayers for members. ”   A hand knitted shawl was gifted for Kieran – a shawl knitted by a member of the Church.   Signifies and thanks   All Mighty God   – ” You knitted me in my mother’s womb ”  Psalm 139.

Monday (17 March) – this is sixth day of Kieran on this good earth – a special day when Goddess Saraswati ( Goddess of intelligence and learning in Hindu Mythology) would come to write his fate and using this occasion –  the baby will be given his name – Kieran.  Saraswati is strongly associated with flowing water in her role as a goddess of knowledge.

Also on this auspicious day, in the evening (at 6.30 pm) his Ba ( paternal Grandmother) conducted a ” Namakaran” ceremony .

Note: Maya had gone to her DayCare at about 8.30 a.m and was picked up by her dad at 5.00 p.m – so the whole day she was away from her baby brother . The routine in life has to be maintained .

———————-

Namakaran is one of the most important of the 16 Hindu ‘samskaras’ or rituals. In the Vedic traditional, ‘Namakaran’ (Sanskrit ‘nam’ = name; ‘karan’ = create) is the formal naming ceremony performed to select a newborn’s name.

This is generally a happy ritual – with the tensions of childbirth now over, the family comes together to celebrate the birth of the child with this ceremony.

Note:   Generally there are differences/variation in naming ceremony rites between various Hindu/Jain   societies and families – but the essence is the same.   To have a ritual and to get together as a family and to rejoice the arrival of the newborn – who needs an identity.

The traditional ceremony of naming the baby in the Hindu way is known as the namakaran ceremony. This is a social norm and an important duty of the parents. The naming process creates a bond between the child and the rest of the family, and therefore is a highly auspicious occasion. This ceremony is usually performed on the 6th day (at least in Oshwal Community   –   to which his dad belongs) after birth though it varies from region to region and custom to custom.

The mother is specially honored because she brought the child into the world. All the relatives and the guests who are present bless the child. The blessings say that the child should grow into being a great person like his renowned forefathers. Though the infant, obviously, does not understand the meaning of the ceremony the parents do; and it helps them to understand the responsibility of bringing up and developing the child into a worthy human being. For others who are present it is a reassuring experience of understanding the dignity and value of human life!

——————-

The Ceremony was carried out at Kieran’s parents’ home in Toronto . His paternal grandparents and his maternal grandparents and his Heather Auntie and Ryan Uncle were present along with his parents and sister Maya.     The ceremony was started with first – his Ba – tying a rakhi   on Kieran’s wrist, Maya’s hand and his mom’s hand and then on the hand of all female present and after that lighting a diya ( a candle light) in a tray arranged with idols of some of our Hindu divine beings with a photo of Shree Jalaram (our Guardian Angel) in the background.

Note :   Rakhi is a   ” Thread of Love ” – this ritual of tying a ” rakhi” not only strengthens the bond of love between brothers and sisters, but also transcends the confines of the family.

After the diya was lit, Ba recited/chanted a few prayers in obeisance to various deities.   Once the prayers were over, Ba requested Sunir as baby’s  dad first to  whispers the chosen name (and some words of wisdom ) in the child’s right ear.   After that his mom whispered his name and some words of wisdom. After that Maya did at least pat him .   This was followed by all relatives present one by one . There was also whispering of his name by phone from Mackey by his Ninafoi, Sunjayfuva, and his cousins Sitara and Sachin.

After the ‘Namakaran ” ceremony , all played and cooed and coddled and held Kieran – this was then followed by a dinner feast -all savouring the moment of this addition to family.     A great joyous occasion!

Note:

Kiran \k(i)-ran\ as a boy’s name is pronounced keer-an. It is of Hindi and Sanskrit , and the meaning of Kiran is “beam of light “.   – meaning a “ray of hope”.

Kieran \ki(e)-ran\ as a boy’s name is pronounced KEER-en. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and the meaning of Kieran is “black”. Name of a saint (sixth century) who was admired for his generosity.

Tuesday (18 March) – This is the day Kieran got his first bath at home – his mom gave the bath but aided and helped by Maya. His first bath after birth was at the hospital .

Wednesday (19 March) – In the morning – after Maya had gone to her DayCare –   Kieran went out with his mom to visit his great grandma (Rae – some 94 year old) at her apartment . He made the great grandma very happy and was coddled, patted and blessed by her.

The same day – in the afternoon he accompanied his mom to visit one of her friends .

Wednesday (19 March) –  What a social being Kieran has turned out to be – he accompanied his mom to a Mother’s Group meeting in the morning and had an appointment in the afternoon with his pediatrician – where he was medically examined and found to be growing normally .   Oh! he is perfect baby – all loved by his parents, his sister and grandparents – from Toronto and Deep River.

At 5.00 pm he went out again and accompanied his mom to pick up Maya from her DayCare . Maya had a great time – show and tell about her brother to all her little friends of her age . They all gawked at Kieran – all admiring the little fellow.

Thursday (20 March) –  This day was unusual – he had another type of social experience – he accompanied his parents for a walk   around the neighborhood – he being in a stroller – his first   . He had the ambience of a coffee shop ( the Second Cup ) on the Yonge Street and general city life on the street.

Friday ( 21 March) – His Ba/Bapuji left for Deep River after spending a week with him and his sister Maya. Ba/Bapuji held him, cooed him and patted him and just admired his strength and smiles and his wandering eyes picking up all that needs to know. His long fingers and tiny well balanced nose and ears and fluid delightful eyes – just were refreshing and joyful to the seniors of the family.

Kieran’s Toronto granddad came over to visit him and the guests from Deep River on Friday morning before Ba/Bapuji left for Deep River. All said farewell. Kieran was held and hugged before departure at 10.40 am     Maya had said her goodbyes earlier prior to her going to the Daycare.

Well, Kieran remained busy after that playing and be with his parents . In the afternoon , he accompanied his mom to “Mom and baby yoga” at the Fairlawn Neighbourhood Centre on Friday afternoon.

Saturday (22 March) – According to phone talk with his parents – this day he along with his sister Maya went for a visit to the neighborhood library  – to a kiddie program .

Then after that in the afternoon – the footprints of his tiny feet were taken by his parents for posterity .

A great week for a new born in Toronto – hitting the world running – no time for just lying around doing nothing.

 ———————

Friday – 21 March 2014   – When Kieran’s Ba/Bapuji arrived in Deep River – the kids Sitara and Sachin came over to their nana/nani with their parents (after their outing for skiing) – to get ready to go to a party in Deep River   – at one of their parents’ friend’s home.  

They did the same thing on Saturday ( 22 March) but the kids were not going to a party but were to be baby-sat by Soli’s young son (Hiten) in Deep River while the parents did go to a party in Deep River . This day they (the kids) had dinner at nana/nani   home .   However, Sachin   was not feeling well and he did not eat much. Because he was not feeling well – they did not go for skiing – which was originally planned.

Sunday 23 March 2014 – This day was a bit   sad as Sachin did not take any food – no temperature but not feeling well. So the parents decieded that he should taken to ER at Deep River Hospital – by his mom and Sitara and Sunjay went to Mount Martin for skiing.   Well, it became clear that ER could not find anything -thus it was recommended to take Sachin to Ottawa Sick Kid (CHEO) Hospital – which the parents did. Sitara was dropped at nana/nani home for the evening and to have a sleep over at her nana/nani home -while parents were in Ottawa.     Sitara did her home work first with her nana and then with her nani.

They (Sachin and his parents) returned from CHEO late in the night (early Monday morning) – Sachin just had a constipation problem – otherwise all was okay . What a relief !     Sachin went home to Mackey with his dad and his mom dropped over at Deep River at his nana/nani home – where she slept with Sitara (in Sitara’s bed).

Friday 28 March 2014

Today was an award giving day at Mackenzie for Kindergarten classes   . Sitara was awarded a Certificate for showing initiative in her class.   Her parents and grandparents attended the event held in the Childs Audirorium at Mackenzie Community School building   .

Saturday   29 March 2014

Maya’s dad posted on his Facebook :         A great bonding between father and daughter.

“   I’ve reached a new developmental milestone! I successfully went to the bathroom. Maya was so proud of me, she gave me a sticker.

And because I don’t have a potty sticker chart, she was kind enough to offer to use hers instead.”

To that :

Maya’s Bapuji ( Sunir’s dad) posted a witty remark –  

” I was wondering when this milestone will be reached. Now I can relax. Maya has certified that which i cannot dispute. Just fun note.“

And also Maya’s Grandma   ( Shannon’s mom) Kathy wrote:   ” No potty chart? Poor thing. I will make you a nice one with robots.“

This became a hilarious   family fun thing -shared by all.

Saturday   29 March 2014

Maya’s   (& Kieran’s) Grandma (Kathy) posted on her Facebook   a photo with the following explanation :

Gran Rae has a visit from her youngest great-grandchildren, Maya (2 1/2) and Kieran (2 weeks). ”” with Shannon Knights.

Shannon’s friend Erica wrote – Love that invisible thread connecting the oldest to the youngest generation.   Thanks you for sharing this.

Bapuji mentioned that   ” It was so charming and uplifting”

Monday 31 March 2014

This is what Kieran’s Bapuji sent on e-mail (subject Title   – Olark’s Fast Move) on this day to Kieran’s family :

Hi

I was going through the album recently made of Kieran’s photos (of his 1st
week on this good earth) – album made by Kieran’s Ba and SitaraCousin.

Lo behold – what I found !

I guess I should have spotted that before when I held Kieran- when in
Toronto.

Here is a baby only a week old – and Olark struck fast – dressing Kieran
with a red Onsie (one piece suit) -with OLARK logo on it.

Its a competetive world out there – catch a prospective customer as soon as
possible – even when only 1 week old.

Well, Kieran seems to be comfortable in the Olark Onsie.

I guess Kudos to Olark and its Marketing Manager !!!!!!!

regards

Kieran’s Deep River Grandfather (Bapuji)

Note: as proof – I have enclosed two photos – Kieran
modelling -showcasing – Olark’s red Onsie .

To that his Grandma, Kathy   (in Toronto ) responded on 3 April 2014 as below:

Great photos of the Olark Family, three generations together! Very cute.
Thanks.

Wednesday 1 January 2014

Well Maya left for Toronto at about 11.00 am -with   her parents in their silver Subaru Outback car. After a stop at Huntsville at her great grandparents home – they arrived back at Toronto at about 6.00 pm.

Her cousins had a great time   playing with her – she being the baby of the lot.

Saturday 11 January 2014

The past few days when Maya settled down in her routine days – going to daycare and then spending time with the family   – specially in chilly freezing weather – with ice and stormy cold days – her cousins (Sitara and Sachin) also got into their routine – of going to school and also their evening activities such as swimming and skating. At one time Sitara went for skiing (at Mt. Martin Ski hill in Deep River) with her dad – Sachin kind of playing   ” hookie ‘ that day and came over to his nana/nani home with his mom.

On Thursday 9 January 2014 –   both nana/nani decided to go over first to the Deep River Mackenzie Pool to watch Sitara at her swimming session. Sitara goes by herself to the pool after her school is over – the pool being within the Mackenzie compound.

She displayed her keen interest in her swimming – doing her breaststroke run-   long lenght –   with great aplomb and with reasonably good speed. She had an opportunity with other kids – to do a bit of diving at deep end.   After her swimming session – all ambled along to Deep River arena   (Sitara with her mom in their VW Passat car and nana/nani in their Dodge minivan ) to   watch Sachin at his ice skating session.

Sachin was brought to arena by his dad separately – he being gone to his baby-sitter home (Jeannette) after school by bus .   Sachin has improved a lot in his ice skating since he started this his first go at skating – he being 4 yrs+. He can skate around (mind you almost kind of walking – and not sliding as yet) . But he is very stable on his   skates- does not fall down often and when he falls down he can get up on his own without any help or waiting for anyone around.   Sachin is a tough kid – he is lke the   proverbial “Eveready Battery ”   – goes round and round the arena – without any fear and does all the moves his “Coach” asks the kids to do . It is quite obvious that he is enjoying himself – though not quite skating ( that is – sliding and going faster) that other kids or skaters do. He is a determined kid and will learn proper skating by the time this season’s session is over.

Wednesday 15 January 2014

Sitara lost her 4th tooth yesterdayat the school playground – having lost the 3rd last week when playing with Sachin.She was bit dismayed as the tooth is now lost. She therefore wrote a letter to the Tooth Fairy as below:
2014 Janyer 14th
Dear Tooth fairy my front tooth came out in the playground in the snow. Please look for my tooth there.

Love Sitara

Love Tara.

Saturday   04 January 2014

Both Sitara and Sachin spent the day at St. Martin Ski Hill in Deep River   – with their parenst. This has now become a norm – every Saturday in winter they now spend skiing -downhill at St. Martin Ski Hill. Sitara is doing well and now taking more challenging trails and Sachin has flowered into a good skiier – goes by himself with confidence and poise. A boy of 41/2 years and he enjoys his skiing downhill.   Sachin graduated to skiing by himself starting on Sunday 05 January at 2.00 p.m.

Thursday 16 January 2014

This day Sachin got his first badge for doing okay in his Skating session at the arena ice rink in deep River.
Saturday 18 January and Sunday 19 January 2014

These two days were to be exceptional days for Maya – to be foreever remembered.

She was baby-sat by her grandpa ( maternal ) – Doug was alone himself that weekend as Kathy (grandma) had gone away to New York to see her friends. Maya’s mom was on call that weekend (thus busy with her hospital duties) and her dad was home but quite franticallly busy preparing for his up-coming conference in USA.   So the grandpa came to the rescue and happily took Maya to his home and baby-sat her for two days – giving Maya a great grandfatherly care and comfort when her parents needed some time to themselves – each one to work on the individual work demand.

What an experience for both; for Maya to savour grandfather’s care and for Doug to play and imbibe the granddaughter’s attention and love.

Sunday 26 January 2014

Maya interacted with her Ba/Bapuji in the Skype ( Maya in Toronto and her Ba/Bapuji in Deep River ) – all bubbly and excited to talk and show off her dresses and art work.   The converstion lasted   a good of time – she never getting tired and her Ba/Bapuji just lapping up the fun.

Monday 27 January 2014

Maya and her daddy went for a swimming class – for Maya.

This is what her mom wrote on an   e-mail to family members

”   Maya is enjoying swimming and getting more confident… this week she blew bubbles twice!

I got a look at our other little fish (ie. cocoa puff) today at the third trimester ultrasound. Everything looks good and the estimated weight is already at 4.5 pounds! ”

This elates the good feelings and joy in our hearts.
Tuesday   28 January 2014

This day Maya’s grandma (Kathy) in Toronto posed a question with a posting   on her facebook page.

It goes like below:

“Kids and grand kids: are they meant to help you stop brooding on the meaning of life…. Or are they the meaning of life?”

Well, such a beautiful querry.

Being grandpa to three grankids ( 2 in Deep River area -Sitara and Sachin – and one in Toronto – Maya ) , I can vouch that I have always felt since Sitar was born that   ” they are the meaning of life “.     Whatever successes or failures we have sustained in our lives – all lead to nurturing and nourishing our grandkids – who are giving us immense love and joy and meaning of life.   They fill our days and our hope too – seeing them and playing with them gives the anchor on our lives – at least that what I feel and believe.

Friday 31 January 2014

This day was a PA day at Mackenzie   school (in Deep River) and thus the school was not openfor the kids. Both Sitara and Sachin spent time at home in Mackey with their mom. This is what they did while in Mackey – as described by their mom in her posting on her Facebook.

“Our first snowshoe excursion….fun! Found lots of winter treefort spots with the kids. Sitara is definately our trail-cutter!”

A great fun and adventure. Their nana always wanted to do snowshoeing   (since migrating to Canada in 1974) but   have not found courage or gumption to do that.

Saturday 1 February 2014

Kids (Sitara and Sachin) were dropped off (about 4.30 pm) at their nana/nani place after their sking outing for the day at St. Martin Ski Hill in Deep River . The parents then went away to Pembroke for shopping and a dinner between two of them.

Kids like to be at their nana/nani place.   They   went about playing with nana and nani – also on the computer in tweh beginning. Sitara is good at playing on Computer but these days Sachin also has started to take keen interest   in playing on the Computer. They get easy access at their nana’s computer and they are becoming a bit conversant with the machine.

After dinner – oh! both are so polite and had a very lively and good dinner with their nana/nani. At the dinner time – they noted some Christmas chocolates on the side table – which each one wanted . So nana/nani agreed that they can have 2 chocolates each ( from ” princess ” box by Sitara and from   ” superman ” box by Sachin) So each one collected their share of the chocolates and kept these under their dinner plates . No fuss of   eating these there and then. They had the patience and trist of their nana/nani – they completed their dinner well and only after that they devoured the two chocolates each. They did not even ask for more – what a satiating nature both have – also discipline and respect for their nana/nani.
After that both were with their nani – doing painting with chalk and water painting . Sitara has knack for painting and the little fellow just get into it but remains still grappling a bit – but like an   ” everedy battery ” -does not give up and completes his work .

After the painting was over – Sachin played with his nana with the small toy sports cars (some 25 + in number –   a left over from his Mama’s collection when he was a kid) . Sachin   just enjoys this playing with cars interfacing with his nana- always smiling and showing obvious pleasure of fun.

Later, Sitara wanted nana to read a story book ( the story book nana/nani bought for Christmas present)   – which anna likes to do at every time kids visit Deep River to their nana/nanai home. Sitara is keen on story reading (by her nana)   since she was born and takes keen interest in the stories – most remembered by her.

This time she slithered up on the back of the long black sofa (in teh living room) on which nana was sitting . This is her hallmark – always she enjoys lying on top of the back of the sofa -like a purring satisfied cat – at least for a while and then she comes down and snuggles up   close to her nana. Sachin was there too in the living room but he was keen on playing with his sports toy cars.   His nana is sure that he was listening to the stories too .

Well then both came down to the Computer room and played on it -kids Computer games   . It was interesting that this time they did not want to watch TV.
On Thursday (06 February 2014 ) , both nana/nani went to Deep River arena to watch Sachin skating – to enjoy his progress so far. He has come a long way – now he – kind of – runs and had good balance – very few falls. Though he is still a bit away from smooth skating – but getting there . He is the little fellow who keeps going and going without fear or tiredness.

His mom and Sitara were at the viewing   window. Sitara as usual is a very keen girl – while watching Sachin – she also completed her school home work. She has discipline   . So far she has read more 106 books and her writing is getting to be smooth and well done

On Saturday 08 February , 2014 – both kids came to nana/nani home (about 4.00 pm) for a sleep over   —   dropped by her dad after their skiing at St. Martin Ski Hill.   immediately when they arrived at nana/nani home, both went   to the backyard to play in the snow. They used snow shovels   (readily available in the front of the house) and dug out tunnels in high pile of snow (against the house). Their nana joined them also – after their dad left for Mackey   ( at Mackey the parents were preparing to entertain   (dinner etc) some collegues from their dad’s workplace. So the kids had a sleep over at their nana/nani place.   This was great as kids wanted to have a sleep over for some time and this opportunity came along.

They were picked by their mom on Sunday after lunch – from there they went with their mom to Deep River arena – for participating in the Deep River Winter festival   – a North Ontario Science Museum do and after that to go for skating at the Arena.

Both kids had enjoyed their stay at nana/nani home –   playing in the snow , Sitara playing on the Computer and Sachin playing   with his trucks . Both did some coloring – ( they have coloring books ) and watched   kids TV – but more over they enjoyed watching with their nani   an Indian program – Boogie Woogie   – which is for dancing talent in India – This Saturday evening they 9Boogie Woogie) had a very special theme program – with each dancer dancing as an animal – such as a gorrilla, an ant, a fly and most intriguing as a snake (cobra).

A posting by Sitara’s mom on her Friday 07 February 2014 Facebook entry – said the following:

”   Sitara told me tonight that it was her boyfriend’s last day at school today. I asked her if she was sad and if she gave him a hug goodbye. She looked at me for a second blushed, smiled, and looked away as she said “Mommy, there are other boys you know”. I don’t know what to think of this. I suppose it is good that she is not sad as she is only 6 years old but not sure I like that she has moved on after 3 hours (sidenote….they had been friends for 2.5 years )   “

Friday 14 February 2014

To-day being Valentine day – Ba/Bapuji exchanged Best Wishes with Maya & her parents – first Ba/Bapuji sending greetings by e-mail and then Maya ( in fact her parents-mom ) phoning to Ba/Bapuji for verbal greetings. Maya was very effusive in her greetings and did rememeber her Bapuji. She was saying to her Ba – ” I want to say Happy Valentine Day to Bapuji.

Saturday 15 February 2014

This day the kids (Sitara and Sachin) went for skiing at the St. Martin Ski Hill in Deep River with their parents and after the skiing was over – all came to nana/nani place to rest a bit and then getting ready for a dinner at a newly opened local restaurant – Santa Fe – which opened recently at the Shamrock Hotel in Deep River.   This chain of restaurants is very popular for Mexican food.   So all six of the family ( the kids, parents and grandparents) went over to the restuarant – a booth was already reserved – for 5.30 p.m.   All had a great time and each one enjoyed the food . The kids had a   special menu of Grilled cheese sandwich and fries.

This is what their mom posted on her FacebooK entry

Sunday 16 February 2014

Kids again went for skiing with parents and then after that all came over to nana/nani place and   after dinner kids had fun playing with their nana, on the computer and watching TV a bit (children’s program) – and had a sleep over at nana/nani place – as Monday was holiday in Ontario ( in lieu of Family Day )     — therefore there was no school BUT their dad was working   – so it was easier for the kids and their mom to get ready next day for free skating at Deep River Arena and then in the afternoon to go for tobagganning.     Of Course their mom and dad went to Mackey for the night.

Monday 17 February 2014

This day Maya will be with her mom – for few days – as her dad had gone over to USA on business.   Maya is excited and look forward to welcome her baby sibling pretty soon.   While her dad is away, Maya will have more time to spend with her HeatherAuntie and RyanUncle as well as with her grandpa and grandma in Toronto.

Tuesday 18 February 2014

This day kids (Sitara and Sachin) had another sleep-over at nana/nani place – after Sitara’s swimming session and Sachin’s skating session (after school was over)   – each were dropped separately at nana/nani home. All had dinner and after dinner their mom went to ski hill for her ski lesson and later joined by their dad who went to the Ski Hill after Sachin and him finished their dinner .     Kids then played with each other – had story books read to them and then finnally went to bed.

Parents went to Mackey after their skiing at the St. Martin Hill in Deep River   – Their mom dropping her Passat VW car at nana/nani garage and substituting that withhnana/nani   dodge minivan – to go home to Mackey.

This arrangement was so that their mom get time at Mackey to pack for their mini- holiday (from Wednesday evening to Saturday) for skiing at Mount Pakenham – while in the morning of Wednesday they were dropped at school by their nana/nani.   So Wednesday evening they went to Ottawa and stayed there before spending a day at Mount Pakenham on Thursday.
This is what their mom posted on her Facebook entry of Thursday February 20, 2014 :

” Two amazing report cards for my two amazing children! The reward? A day together as a family skiing in Pakenham today! Had to move it forward by one day because it is going to rain tomorrow   “

Another post   by their mom at   7:36 PM of the same date ( 20 February 2014 ) :

“Awesome day at Fultons Sugar Shack and Mount Pakenham….still here night skiing. So much for the kids to do here and the kids could ski almost all the runs. Not sure if Sitara has gotten her one wish….to try the terrain park. She is still out there!”

Again at   7.46 PM
“Awesome day at Fultons Sugar Shack and the afternoon and evening skiing at Mount Pakenham. Sitara and Daddy are still out there. Proud that Sachin lasted more than 4 hours straight skiing   ”

Another entry on the Facebook by their mom on Thursday 20 February 2014
“Awesome day at Fultons Sugar Shack and the afternoon and evening skiing at Mount Pakenham. Sitara and Daddy are still out there. Proud that Sachin lasted more than 4 hours straight skiing ”
On Friday 21 February 2014 – the kids (Sitara & Sachin) and parents   spent time at the Museum of Science and Technology.
Here is posting of the same day on Facebook by their mom
“The kids are playing so nicely with a bunch of teenagers chasing eachother through the dark spaceage flashing light maze thing at the Museum of Science and Tech. Sunjay on the otherhand is busy running back and forth from the giftshop to me trying to convince me to buy a 3D spaceship cookie cutter set. I may breakdown and let him buy them”

Kids and parents returned ( from their outing & holiday at Ottawa) to Deep River on Saturday 22 February 2014 arriving at nana/nani place at about 4.00 PM .   The kids relaxed and then had dinner at nana/nani place while their parents got refreshed and ready to go to Pembroke to a Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Victoria Tea House.

The parents left for Pembroke at about 5.30 PM – the kids to have a sleep-over at nana/nani place   for one night.

Saturday    01 March 2014

Its a Red Letter day  in the family.

What a joyous day !   An accomplishment par excellent by both Sitara and Sachin.

In the downhill ski competition at the Mount Martin Ski Hill in Deep River – on  Pat Harvey  Day – both kids participated into the downhill  ski competition – also their parents participated.

Sitara earned a Gold Medal ( in the age group for kids upto 8 years  – Sitara is  ~ 6 3/4 years old  and sachin gained a Silver Medal in the minor group ( he being ~ 4 1/2 yrs old) .

Both nana/nani were witness to the event – they spent better part of the afternoon and evening at hill. One can see a beaming satisfaction in both the kids though  they were very subdued and not showing off or vocal about it , A good trait.

The first medal by Grandkids – a moment to savour for the life time.

——————————-

Today Maya   had her second haircut since she was born .She also got/graduated in her swimming session and earned a prestigious Guardian 2   certificate. Congartulations! Maya – she is fast growing up.

This is what her mom said in an e-mail (to family members)   of the same date :

It had been six months (!) since Maya’s first haircut, so we decided it was time for a trim today. She loves the “haircut store” because, as the photos show, the experience comes complete with a horsey ride and a lollipop 🙂

” In other news, Maya got her swimming report card this morning and passed “Guardian 2”. We are planning to sign up for Guardian 3 next term to get ready for lots of swimming at the cottage and in Deep River this summer!   ”

Sunday   02 March 2014

The following was posted on her Facebook by Sachin’s mom :

”   Me: Sachin! Why do you wake up so early?! (6am yesterday and 7:30am today)
Sachin: Because then I have lots of time to play and do stuff!
Me: Yeah….*yawn* I can’t argue with that... “

What one can say. He is so sweet and always   busy in his toys without bothering anyone and when at nana/nani place ((for a sleep over or otherwise) – he wants play with his nana – always happy and sometimes singing when playing.

Wednesday -12 March 2014 – a VERY IMPORTANT DAY

Welcome to our newest Grandson – Kieran   – Maya’s brother -born around 5.00 a.m in Toronto – proud parents Shannon and Sunir .

They (Sunir/Shannon) called at 6.00 am   and made the annoucement to Kieran’s Ba & Bapuji in Deep River – which made them the happiest Grandparents on this earth.

Here is an e-mail from Maya’s dad sent at 4.52 am (12 March 2014) :-

Shannon is labouring. We will call you when it is here!

Please don’t call. Still a ways to go. Don’t want to disturb Shannon 🙂

Cheers, Sunir
http://twitter.com/sunir

Carefully tapped on an iPhone

Here is what Ba/Bapuji sent Congratulatory e-mail at 6.17 am -titled –   Congratulations – A gift From God

The most happiest/exciting phone call came to us at 6.00 a.m (Wedneday 12
March 2014) – announcing the arrival of our grandson – Kieran – Maya’s
little brother . A gift from God .

We are just proud of you Shannon/Sunir – parents to a “millionaire” family.

We are just bursting with joy .

We are happy that Shannon is doing fine .

Many Many Congratulations to both of you and Maya.

We are looking forward to come over and join in welcoming the newest family
member.

regards

Ba and Bapuji
This is what his foi ( Nina Auntie)   posted on her Facebook at 9.32 am Wednesday 12 March 2014: –

“It’s a boy! I am a happy Foi (Auntie) today! Kieran Douglas Knights Shah arrived this morning at 5:17am, weighing 7lb 10oz. His cousins are sooooooooo excited to meet him!!!”

Both kids Sitara & Sachin were sleep over at nana/nani – and they were excited to know about their new cousin. I think Sachin mentioned that he also has another cousin – James ( imagenary) in Africa.   Sitara mentioned that she knew about the baby as she heard nani talking on the phone – so Sitara must be awake – though in her room but could hear conversations.

This Quarter   has begun living behind the last (3rd) Quarter with a few incidents. Three to be sure.
1) The Sign Structure at nana/nani owned commercial building ( a mini-mall) at Petawawa fell down (knocked over) when a sudden intense storm hit Petawawa at noon (or   thereafter but before 1.00 pm) on Friday 19 July 2013. Nana was there (went to Lions Club to play cards). Nana & his car (Dodge minivan) escaped any hurt/injury   at that time.

Note: Insurance Company covered the cost for rebuilding the Sign Structure
2) The house Gas furnace ( some 12 years old) konked out around 19 September 2013 or just a few days before that .

It was replaced by a new Payne High Efficiency Gas Furnace   – by a local Gas contractor immediately after that. This is not covered by insurance and thus the cost (quite considerable) was borne by nana.

3) The third incident happened when nana/nani car ( 2010 Toyota Corolla) was hit in Quebec -while returning on Monday 30 September 2013 from attending Ray/Alix wedding at MonteBello. Thanks to our Guardian Angle (Shree Jalaram) – no one got hurt badly. Nani got a small head bang on the dashborad – fortunately the car was slow.

This accident fortunately is covered by the Insurance   – who have assessed that the car cannot be repaired and is a write-off. An new car may be needed to replace the old 2010 Toyota Corola.
Okay – so much for such incidents – Lucky that we are okay and life continues.

———————-

Saturday   2013 October 05

This day our Sitara has passed another milestone.     She lost her front (lower) middle tooth – a normal process of growing up . She actually had the tooth wiggling for some time and she was always showing that to her nana when she comes over to visit ( mostly on Tuesdays) . Nana has one tooth ( same area – lower middle) had already pulled out many years ago in Kenya – nana loved to show thst to Sitara .

Her tooth came out when they were in Petawawa at   Home Hardware store this afternoon.   Sitara have taken this in her stride and now the Tooth Fairy turn to bring her some gift ( possibly dollars) .

Wednesday 2013 October 09

This day the kids (Sitara & Sachin) were left with only one parent – their mom   as their dad   has gone overseas for a few days on business.

Thursday 2013 October 10

This was the first day for Sachin for his ice skating lesson. His first that now he has become 4 years old. He wanted his nana also to go to the arena   – and he asked his mom whether nana would come. So his nana went and had   a great time watching him to start learning to ice skate. He took all in his stride -as usual with a smile on his face . At the end of the session (and after few falls   etc. ) he managed to shuffle on the ice and made progress in gliding without falling – though with a slow pace.   At the end,he seemed to be satisfied and enjoyed his “tryst” at/on the ice.
They spent Tuesday , the previous day at nana/nani home along with their mom and their dad joining in for dinner.

Friday October 11 and Saturday October 12 they did a sleep over at nana/nani home in Deep River- along with their mom .   All had a good time together both days – spending fun time outdoors and in backyard. The weather was   beautiful -all sunny and warm but not too hot.
On Sunday October 13 – it was a wet day – raining . It was a day when all went to a children’s movie at Perawawa Theater.   Troyes Cinema, the best theatre in the Ottawa Valley where going out to see first rate movies doesn’t have to cost a lot.

The Title of the Movie : Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2   .

Its an Animation’s hit comedy—

Description:

Chester’s right-hand-gal – and one of his greatest inventions – is Barb (a highly evolved orangutan with a human brain, who is also devious, manipulative and likes to wear lipstick). It’s always been Flint’s dream to be recognized as a great inventor, but everything changes when he discovers that his most infamous machine (which turns water into food) is still operating and is now creating food-animal hybrids – “foodimals!” With the fate of humanity in his hands, Chester sends Flint and his friends on a dangerously delicious mission, battling hungry tacodiles, shrimpanzees, apple pie-thons, double bacon cheespiders and other food creatures to save the world again!

ThanksGiving Day Monday 14 October 2013

Sitara/Sachin

After many activities during the ThanksGiving weekend (see above ) both Sitara & Sachin spent the ThanksGiving Monday at Mackey. Their nana/nani joined them for the day . It was a beautiful sunny day . All spent the day outdoors in the front yard – raked the leaves , trim all the flower plants, kids played on the swing & slide and also on the tarpauline . In the evening kids mom started the bonfire as Sachin wanted taoated marshmallows.   However, the bonefire did not quite took off and as it was gettinglate -all retired indoor for dinner . After dinner, nana read many story books – they are not satisfied with one or two books -so nana was happy to read all the books that the kids wanted him to read.

Everyone   wished each other a Happy ThanksGiving . Nana/nani then returned back to Deep River at about 8.00 p.m.

Maya

Maya spent the ThanksGiving weekend at her grandparents’ (maternal) cottage – where she had gone with her parents and joining in with her grandparents , aunt and other relations .

They had   a great time together and returned back to Toronto late at night on Monday     .

This is what her Grandma (Kathy ) said in an e-mail she sent to Maya’s mom on Friday 18 October 2013 -copied to family members.