Category Archives: Deep River

Poem – Sitara’s 10th Birthday -2017

POEM – Sitara’s 10th Birthday (05 August 2017)

Sitara our granddaughter

our   Angelic Sitara

humble and adorable girl

always with a warm care

our 10 year old angel

almost a pre-teen girl

sweet and charming

her creative mind

her remarkable paintings

swims and figure skates

downhill skiing and snowboarding

10 years old plays piano

read books and comics a great deal

a darling sister to her brother

Sachin just adores her

our shine and spark

Sitara brings joyful outlook

what an angel !

we are so privileged

Sitara   we love you

you are our comfort

Happy Birthday

Many more to come

nana/nani

Poem – Maya’s 7th Birthday – 2018

 

POEM

Maya’s 7th Birthday 07 August 2018

Our granddaughter

A leader born

Full of Confidence

She is forever active

Maya is lively with a smile

Her pleasing amazing art work

She is bubbly winning hearts

Maya is funny and vibrant

Loving sister to Kieran and Priya

The joy of our lives

Our sunshine bright

We have been blessed

With a princess so pretty

Hey, Maya – We wish you

a Very Happy Birthday

and many more to come

Ba/Bapuji

Poem For Kieran’s Birthday -2019

POEM   – Kieran’s 5th Birthday – 12 March 2019

Our sparkling happy grandson

You sparkle with your great smile

Kieran you shine like a diamond

 

You are in Toronto and we are in Deep River

But know that we are with you in our own special way

We are privileged to have you as a grandchild

 

Your politeness wins hearts

Your words are sweet and powerful

Your conversation on phone flutter our hearts

 

Your 5th birthday we celebrate in Deep River

A   highlight for the family

We are delighted that you visiting us with family

 

Your sisters Maya and Priya

Your cousins Sitara and Sachin

All proud of you for your sparkling charm

 

We celebrate your birthday together with gusto

Happy 5th Birthday Kieran

Many more to come

 

Ba and Bapuji

Miracles of Christmas ( celebrating Christmas 2018 )

This article   was written to celebrate Christmas 2018. It has been circulated widely ( by e-mail) to many of friends and colleagues . Also it has been sent to local newspaper (North Renfrew Times) for publication.

Miracles of Christmas   ( celebrating Christmas 2018 )

With   winter setting in and snow in our backyard it seems that the Christmas is around the corner . With all the Christmas movies on Television, lights and decorations around the town , we are   looking forward to welcome the Santa Clause and enjoy the warmth of his jingle, laughter and joy.

Christmas is coming, with all its frippery and solemnity, its tinsel and hymns.   Our heart is in rhythm with the environment with warmth for our neighbors, colleagues , family and friends.

Christmas bestows magical touch   to our hearts. The celebration of Christmas has gone   global. It has jumped the Christian boundary and have penetrated in all cultures and societies the world over.   The image of Santa Clause delivering   gifts of toys to the kids around the world has mesmerized all.

We all enjoy the festivities and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on this earth.   He was a   personification of divine attributes that lie underlain in a human soul. This coming of Jesus was heralded and anointed by the three wise men from the East . The history of his struggles and ultimate crucifixion is well known and recited many times by his followers and others.

Lord Jesus’ message of   Love Thy Neighbors , Turn your other cheek,   Be warm and compassionate to all, Forgive   yourself and also your enemies   are time-tested messages which , if followed genuinely, can bring all nearer to Godly experience.

Christmas   brings out stories of   miracles experienced in daily lives of faithful . Miracles happen when true and genuine faith is observed   and then trusting Lord to do the helping as and where required.

One can read   “on line ” stories of miracles at Christmas time   –   which are told and described with care and true belief.  Reader’s Digest published in December 2017 issue   some   of these true stories about Christmas miracles from readers   that little details can turn an ordinary Christmas into a cherished   memory.

LINK: https://www.rd.com/true-stories/inspiring/christmas-miracles-true-stories/

I am sure that many of us have   personal story of miracles in our lives and most miracles happen around auspicious time like Christmas.

Remembering the miracles of Christmas is a great way to retain a sense of childlike wonder as we seek to keep the Lord at the center of it all.

On a larger world view   – we see miracles all around us. To my mind, the change of seasons, rising of the sun and moon,   gardens and living creatures all around us   under different conditions/circumstances is a   portrayal of miracles .

If we open our eyes , we can see miracles  affecting our community here in Deep River every day   –   a well run small town with excellent water supply, road systems, garbage collection , Police and Emergency Services etc. These  are well   organized and maintained. We have a fine   hospital, and many recreational activities . The most miraculous happening is excellent volunteering   by town’s citizens for myriad and varied activities.

I am always in wonderment when   I see dedication, commitment, education and training of many coaches of various activities in the Town  – who spend their time with smile to teach, coach and pass on their knowledge to our young and upcoming generation. Long days and week-ends are accepted with care and dedication.

These coaches/teachers are an embodiment of miracles especially when I see such joy and smile on our grandkids’   faces. Day in and day out.

In a broader sense , I have also noted an interesting miracle (sort of) at our Deep River Bridge Club.   Since I started playing in 2007, I have seen transformation in partnerships. There are now many couples who play as partners – a symbol of   love and respect. Of course , friendships are also   developed but when one sees a couple playing together as partners with cool and calmness – it is definitely bordering on a miracle.

The heart is thrilled and joyous that on the eve of 2018 Christmas, we have   some positive news items . The ” ground breaking ” ceremony   was held recently for a New Apartment Development right in the center of the Deep River town.   It seems contract agreement has been tentatively reached between the employer and professional employees at the Chalk River Laboratories. These news items infuse stability in our lives .     Christmas miracles !!

 

My wife (Jackie Shah) and I wish you all a life full of happy miracles.

Merry Christmas to you and your family . We also wish you all a very Happy Holiday and a successful New Year.

 

Diwali 2018 – Renfrew County

The following is the little note   i wrote and circulated to all members of the Renfrew County Indian Community via deepem@googlegroups.com .

Dear friends ,

Diwali 2018 – Renfrew County

The auspicious Diwali party time arrived with a bang on Saturday 03 November 2018.

The Lions Hall in Chalk River was abuzz with laughter, hugs and shakes of hands between friends and also with strangers (most of who have recently arrived and settled down in Renfrew County).

The old mix of professionals have now transformed into mix of professionals and business community members. What a change we have seen in recent years !  We have now seen rejuvenation of the community with young families and many kids amongst us.   This brings excitement and energetic participation in the entertainment programs .

I was also pleasantly surprised to see many non-Indian friends of our community members joining us in this festival of Lights – celebrating  victory of good over evil.  We enjoy freedom, openness and dignity which behooves us to care for our friends and neighbors  and respect for others’ culture and traditions.  It is the premise on which our community survives.  In this country (where we have settled ) there is much camaraderie and equality and it is important that we respect these virtues .   Let us  welcome participation of many of our friends from the larger Canadian Society.

I being a senior and inching towards the ultimate goal , I found the cheers and just playfulness of many of our youngsters – from babies to teenagers to young adults in our Indian garbs at the Diwali party – to be  very enervating . The dances (individual and group) were varied from young kids to adults.  The dances really brought to the fore our cultural diversity with harmonious interplay. This enjoyment of our heritage  brings delight to my old soul and it definitely identified the colorful garden that is the Canadian society of which we have become one type of flowers amongst many others.  May we spread a scent so pleasing to all and sundry in our society.

What is heart pleasing is the selfless effort by many of our volunteers who devoted time and effort to make this party to become a successful and memorable event. Without these volunteers, the function could not have occurred . So I would like to congratulate all the volunteers for their devotion.   I am rather leaving out names as there are many of you who volunteered cheerfully.

However I would be remiss not to mention and thank my dear friend Ken Philipose and his wife Leela – who have taken initiative not only this year but also previous years to provide impetus and leadership to keep this cultural activity alive amongst our community in Renfrew County. This adds a flavour to ” Unity In Diversity”   in the society.  I am sure , hopefully others are stepping in the responsibility.

Happy Diwali to all and my wife Jackie Shah and I wish you all a very successful New Year . We  pray for the immense growth and progress of our community as part of the larger Canadian Community.

Pravin Shah

Democarcy at work

I wrote this article on the eve of Municipal Election of 2018 in Deep River.

The article has been forwarded to local newspaper for publication (on 16 Sept 2018)

 

Democracy at work

Deep River is all excited about the upcoming Municipal election. We have many candidates for Mayor and Council . Also for the Reeve position. It is really very heartwarming that we have a diverse group of people offering their time and effort for the good of the town.

There is proliferation of meetings , signposts and pamphlets . The whole town is now decorated with these signposts – some small, some large and all of different colors and height. It adds an ambience to the town.

Our democracy is very transparent and without impact of wealth or power of an individual. What is needed is a genuine commitment for serving the public . Yes, the candidate needs to be polite , civil and have demonstrated genuine good work ethics.

Each candidate projects his or her vision for the future of the town and the method by which such vision will be attained. At least an effort will be made to achieve the stated vision in partnership with other elected members. As we have a democracy in action, any future will be molded with a majority of the Council members in sync. The elected Mayor really cannot dictate his/her views or vision .

Having listened to many candidates at various forums or in private conversation along with reading pamphlets from each candidate the following common objectives are surmised by me.

1) Most candidates seem to want

Ӣ the Town to have a great relation with CNL Рour largest employer

Ӣ to bring about growth of more diverse economic activities in the Town.

Ӣ definitive real housing development within our Town for different categories of people Рsenior, young and for those of lower income.

This has been an effort in the past for Economic Development but not much diversification has been seen . I think with new technology – it is believed some on-line businesses can be developed.

A focused tourism type business has a possibility . For example, an escorted holiday package can be developed – for city populations (Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal etc) when the Town can during summer offer boating, pontoon parties, swimming at our two beaches coupled with lessons for boating and fishing . In winter, the Town can offer actual cross country skiing, downhill skiing as well as coaching for such skiing . And in the evenings for entertainment at various times we have plays , orchestra , dances and other programs that can be developed. We also have Lawn Bowling, Card Games ( Bridge ), golf etc which can be weaved into the program. An genuine entrepreneur , I am sure can develop a good package -but will need cooperation and help from the Town . This can bring employment and income for many diverse group of people in the town .

 

Remember, there are so many newcomers in our country who require ” hand Holding – someone who can show/teach techniques ” for things like boating (and other river activities) , skiing, fishing, card playing etc.

2) Most candidates are genuinely concerned about high property taxes that we have in Deep River . This subject has been discussed and studied by previous councils but we have not seen any reduction in taxes.

Many feel that increase in population in the town will spread the tax burden and thus help in reduction. However, it seems many new employees by CNL or the Garrison wants to stay around Petawawa due to lower taxes there.

Note: Increase in population is feasible if new businesses are developed or attracted in the Town. So far instead , over last few years , we have seen closure of some of the existing businesses.

Many feel that we have Cadillac Police Service and Fire Department – these two services need fair amount of our taxes.

I am sure previous Council(s) have looked at these services and have come up against a wall for any major changes though some movement is noted.

May be an out-of- box type solution is necessary . What ? A restructuring of Municipal administration and/or restructuring current duties of Police and Fire personnel or how about offering Police Services to adjoining towns like Chalk River . Our Police Force is closer than OPP.

I believe the new Council will have their work cut out for this issue. For an out-of-box type solution , a focused leader with a penchant for success is necessary.

We are enchanted and excited by the process of our democracy, our genuine participation in our future and we are fortunate to have many good candidates to stand for election. This is a real democracy at work.

Only job remaining is for all of – each and every one of us – to understand the nuances and commitment of each candidate and go out on the voting day to vote for those we prefer.

 

 

 

 

Thank You Canada – POEM – for 1 July 2018

On the eve of celebrating Canada Day (01 July 2018)   – I have written a
POEM – which expresses my/our Thank You Canada – for bestowing respect, dignity and growth of   our family and friends.

Note: This Poem has been circulated to North Renfrew Times   for publication and also many contacts and friends. The   POEM was published in the North Renfrew Times in their Wednesday 27 Jun 2018 edition.

POEM

Thank You Canada  – O!   Canada     – 2018

Thank You   Thank You   Thank You

Canada   our land

So   beautiful

So empowering

So polite and respectful

With four seasons

With people from all over

For freedom, equality and dignity

We are passionate about you

 

Thank You  Thank You   Thank You

For our 44 years within your bosom

For our children & their spouses

For our great grandchildren

For our friends in Niagara Falls

Where we started

For our friends in Deep River

Where we are in retirement

For our friends in many cities

Where   we had worked for living

 

Thank You   Thank You   Thank You

For our Canadian extended families

For fulfilling our dreams

For being there when we needed

 

O! Canada

We celebrate Canada day

With enthusiasm, pride and joy

We stand on guard for thee

Christmas 2017 – Christ’s message

On the eve of Christmas coming and with the background of attacks on innocent people all over the world –   I   thought about what an individual can learn   from the ocassion which can strengthen the message of peace.       So after some thinking and studying the subject – I came with the following article (write-up) .

I usually send my articles to local newspaper (North Renfrew Times – NRT ) – for publication.   I have sent   the current article to NRT . However for Christmas articles they wait till last week of December to publish.

In the meantime , I do circulate the articles to my friends or colleagues or bridge partners.

Article:

 

Christmas   2017 – Christ’s message.

This year the birth of Lord Jesus will be celebrated   as   usual with joy and gusto by the faithful. Christmas parties and festivities will be cheerful and spreading joy all around.

This is the holiday when not only the faithful but also those who belong to other beliefs also join in the festivities due to the Santa Clause phenomenon which is included along with the celebration of the birth of Lord Jesus.   The old “cult” of Santa Claus incorporates many traditions: Christian as well as Pagan

Santa brings everyone together! No matter whether one is a Christian or not.   Kids (of all nationalities) all over the world know who Santa is… And although he may be a little commercial, who can help, but love the jolly old elf?     Toys and gifts become the centerpiece in the festivities.

It’s the idea of giving that reminds us: we are all on this planet together, for the long run.

There are some 2 billion Christians on this planet who believe in the birth of the Son of God . So what message one gets from this occurrence. Why the Son of God is to be born and then persecuted and finally to be nailed on the cross.   Why and what for ?   The faithful may say that He came to remove/wash our sins. The only way is through Jesus. Jesus came so He could die on the cross for ALL of our sins.

Not being of Christian faith myself , I believe there is a deeper message from this occurrence.   Here is the Son of God   born to a virgin mother, had to be a refugee , then persecuted (and do not forget the betrayal by a close confidante ),   finally believed to come alive and walk away from His grave. He is risen. This phenomena of resurrection is the most astounding one.

The conception of Jesus was miraculous. Son of God comes on this earth as a human being. That tells that  human beings are a special species and are important in the scheme of things. So it is critical that we human beings learn to look after each other rather than stockpiling weapons of mass destruction or go berserk and start bombing or shooting the neighbours. We have the obligation to nurture and look after other species like animals, flora and fauna. We need to respect people of all   races, color or nationalities without prejudice. Only then God will be joyful.

Jesus’s  life illustrates to us the greatest weapon in our hands for happiness and that is to be compassionate and forgiving . Even when he was on the cross – tortured and nailed – He asks ” Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”

Jesus’s  life also teaches us to be courageous and not run away like cowards against evil and malicious actions by others but stand up against any injustices   with calm and composed attitude believing in our convictions and prepared for sacrificing our comforts and life, if need be.   Human dignity and rights are paramount and shall be equal for everyone.  Jesus on the cross is a very visible symbol of ” sacrifice ” for a cause.

We know that the Son of God had to be protected from King Harod’s machinations for wanting to kill the new born   and thus the family (Joseph & Mary along with the baby) took refuge in Egypt for two years . The refugees that we welcome these days are not different than what was happening in the old world and who knows amongst the modern refugees one of them may be a messenger for good.   However so far we have not had signs from any heavenly angels or from any wise men. Then Jesus teaches us the value of   ” patience ” and belief in workings of the Almighty.

Jesus teaches us to “turn the other cheek ” and not be violent under any circumstances – any violence or revengeful nature only bring devastation to all and sundry including those who perpetrate violence. This is the quality of divinity – message of God Almighty .  Even when he was betrayed by Judas (Judas was one of the 12 disciples closest to Jesus), Jesus became sad but did not get angry at him but forgave him for his deeds.

Jesus’s resurrection is very ennobling and shows us not to despair for any failure or loss as these failures/losses would be redeemed in one form or another in its own time – if you have conviction and faith.

Christmas is without a doubt my favorite time of the year. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The family gets together from near and far. All grandchildren go helter-skelter having fun , playing with each other and bringing sound of joy in the household. The exchange of gifts and opening these bring so much excitement and laughter while the nature is showering snowflakes outdoors . One can almost hear the jingle bells in the ears. The Santa parade is a fixture for all to go and enjoy the bond with our neighbors .

Let us remember that the Christmas – celebration of the birth of Lord Jesus – enhances our empathetic attitude, encourage us to share our bounty and for us to remain connected and caring for the world around without any biases and prejudices.

The profound message of Christmas should not be forgotten amidst all the festivities and Santa Clause parade, Christmas Tree decorations, multiple gifts and feasts.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all from me and my family.

Grandparents – 2017 – 4th Quarter (upto end December)

 

 

 

Friday 06 October 2017

These days – during few days in the week -Nina works – mostly in Pembroke and thus on those days both Sitara and Sachin come over to nana/nani home -dropped by their dad . The kids then have breakfast at nana/nani home – relax and then nana/nani drop them at school by 9.15 am. In the evening , they have different programs (such as badminton or swimming or Sitara’s painting)   so nani sometimes go to school to pick them up or one of them – and their dad pick up the other. All flexible. They would have dinner at nana/nani home – by that time their mom would have been back from her work in Pembroke and the kids go to Mackey with their dad  or mom . All flexible.

However, this day was a part of Thanksgiving weekend (in Canada – in USA it is in November) andkids were home in Mackey.

Toronto kids – Maya, Kieran and Priya went for the Thanksgiving weekend to the cottage (their grandparents’ cottage in Muskoka) with their parents   -where they will be joined by Cole (their cousin) – and his parents .

Both nana/nani joined Sitara and Sachin at Mackey home for their early Thanksgiving dinner. Nana   played with Sachin – toy car dominoes   and other games . Nana also played with Sitara couple of board games . Nani joined with Sitara – making a painting -sitting outdoors on the patio.

All had dinner – some Thanksgiving gifts were given to the kids and after that nana/nani returned   back to Deep River – all refreshed and relaxed.

Saturday 07 October 2017

To   —   Mìwàte: Illumination of Chaudière Falls – October 7 —   Kids went there with the parents.

Both Sitara and Sachin   went to Ottawa with their parents to spend the Thanksgiving weekend there. On the way, Sachin had ice hockey   at   the Deep River Arena at 10.00 am and was drivefn there by his dad.. Nani went to the arena to watch/cheer Sachin and after that Sachin came over to nana/nani home and had shower – by the time Nina and Sitara arrived from Mackey and all then went to Ottawa . In Ottawa , theywere to go to Museum of Nature – amongst other activities and staying at a hotel.

On Sunday about 6.00 pm they were driving towards Cornwall – to a Upper Canada Village Pumpkin Show .   Pumpkinferno – Upper Canada Village – Morrisburg Oct 8, 2017

This is how it was described on their web page:     https://www.uppercanadavillage.com/events/pumpkinferno/

Award-winning Pumpkinferno returns featuring a selection of specially designed Canada 150  themed pumpkin-carved displays!  This mesmerizing installation of artist-inspired, glowing pumpkins is a not-to-be-missed event for ALL ages!   Take a tour through this spectacular outdoor art exhibit of 7,000 handcrafted pumpkins all lit at night along a kilometer long path in a picturesque 19th century backdrop. Open select evenings from late September through October, you won”™t want to miss this chance to discover the culture of Canada in a world of pumpkins.

The carved pumpkins you will see at Pumpkinferno are realistic, artificial pumpkins, whose forms have been shaped from molds of real pumpkins. The pumpkins have been designed and carved by a talented group of young artists from the Eastern Ontario region. These designers and carvers were selected based on their penchant for design, whether in his/her field of study or as a personal hobby. They embarked in May of 2012 on this monumental project, designing, carving, and constructing the amazing array of pumpkin-carved installations you will discover on your tour. Each spring through summer, a group of new and returning designer/carvers create all that you will see that is new and vibrant, added to our collection of amazing exhibits at Pumpkinferno!  

Friday 20 October 2017

This week is kind of celebrating Diwali   –   but we as a family are so stretched for one thing or another that we celebrated   Diwali in bits and pieces – both Sitara and Sachin took all that   in their strides and nana just going with the flow. Of course the family in Toronto is not here in Deep River area -so they are really not joining in this part of Diwali   -BUT we are all looking   for   real deep celebration

a) Deep River and Area Diwali function on   Saturday October 28 at Lions Club in Chalk River where both nana/nani and Mistry family will be joining in

b) Oshwal Diwali Celebration in Toronto area on   Saturday 11 November 2017     – where Sunir/Shannonamd kids   (Maya, Kieran & Priya ) will   be going -and also joined by their Ba/Bapuji who will be travelling to Toronto from Deep River – to stay few days with them.

 

Today – both Nina/Sunjay have gone to Ottawa for the weekend   – thus kids – Sitara and Sachin are with nana/nani. Today nana/nani dropped them at school at 9.15 am – after breakfast . Nani picked them from school at 3.40 pm . After dinner – Sachin was dropped at Deep River arena (by his nani) for his Ice hockey game .   Sitara would be dropped at Mackenzie Community School at 6.00 pm for her badminton game – so would be Sachin after his ice hockey game .

Tomorrow – kids will be ferried to Petawawa by nana/nani for Sitara’s  gymnastics at 10.30 am.

Done and came home during late afternoon. Kids spent the night at nana/nani home as their parents returned from Ottawa late at night and thus went   straight to their home at Mackey.

Note: last two days nana/nani were in Ottawa   – gone there on Wednesday (18 October) morning for nana’s appointment at Heart Institute   -for a heart monitoring check-up ( by Dr. Roy Masters) and on Thursday at the Ottawa General Hospital for nani’s medical check-up for intestinal problems.   Nana/nani returned back to Deep River on Thursday   late afternoon. On Wednesday night they stayed at ROTEL – near to the Ottawa General Hospital.   Also nana/nani went for dinner on Wednesday evening at Rangoli Restaurant ( an East Indian restaurant) in Orleans .

On Sunday 22 October 2017 – the family again celebrated Diwali with special lunch meal at nana/nani home . After lunch – Sachin had ice hockey match – and after that the Mistry family went to their home at Mackey.

Tuesday 24 October 2017 – Nina was working and thus the kids were dropped by their dad to nana/nani home — and after breakfast and after some   relaxed time — nana/nani dropped   them at school

Note: This day their dad is going to Toronto on business – so Nina and kids will stay over in Deep River at nana/nani home   for at least two nights. It is more convenient -at least when Nina is working.

Saturday   28 October 2017

Today the Deep River and Area East Indians celebrated Diwali festival at Lions Hall in Chalk River. Both Sitara and Sachin dressed for   occasion – so did   their mom and dad . Their mom and dad helped in the organization of the event – while nana/nani enjoyed the program.   Both Sitara and Sachin took some part in the program – though they could do more.   Bears Den ( now owned by an Indian –  emigrated from Gujarat, India )  catered the food for the ocacsion.

Now the kids are preparing for the upcoming Halloween day on Tuesday ( 31 October 2017) and have already carved the pumpkins.

Their mom posted on her Facebook wall on Sunday 29 October 2017:

An Owl and Snorlax (our family’s most favourite Pokémon )

Wednesday 01 November 2017

Tuesday night and Wednesday early morning , Deep River and area got season’s first snow – after the Halloween evening on Tuesday 31 October 2017. Note: For Halloween, the Mistrys were ” Halloween 2017 as the Star Wars family ” .

Thursday 02 November 2017

This is the e-mail (with a photo) from Priya’s mom (today):

” This little rascal is into everything… and she took her first steps on Sunday! She still prefers to crawl, but is taking a few steps at a time. Our baby is growing up! Looking forward to seeing you very soon ”

Another e-mail (with a photo) about Maya & Kieran having a ball of time on Halloween day :

” Thanks for the Halloween decorations! The kids loved putting them up. Here they are on Halloween night.”

Tuesday 07 November 2017

Visit to Toronto. We began our car journey ( 2016 Nissan Rogue) to visit the grandkids (Maya, Kieran & Priya) and their parents in Toronto . Left Deep River at about 9.30 am – stopped at Mackey en-route. Picked up lots of clothes for kids in Toronto. These are Sitara & Sachin cloths which they have outgrown – while Maya, Kieran & Priya are growing into.

Arrived safely in Toronto in good time about 4.30 pm. Shannon was not home but at work. Sincew e arrived early on time , Sunir could go pick up Maya (taking Priya) with him while Kieran stayed behind with Ba/Bapuji.

Wednesday 08 November 2017

Maya was dropped at school by Sunir – Shannon had already left for her work.

Kieran had not gone to his daycare. Kieran these days go only two days a week to his daycare – this is because Shannon is on “maternity leave ” and thus would like Kieran to be with parents and enjoy home life.

So today Sunir decided to take him to visit Mount Pleasant cemetery – for Kieran was curious about ghouls etc after enjoying recent Halloween . Ba/Bapuji also joined in for the visit. All went by subway – Priya in the stroller & Kieran walking all the way . We left at around 11.45 am & returned back by 2.00 pm – having had a snack on a bench in the cemetery.

It was a pleasant day. Kieran was looking at different tombstones and artifacts .

On Thursday 09 November 2017 – , both Kieran & Maya went to their respective school/daycare. I (Bapuji) went to the local library (on Yonge St.) after a brief walk around.

Friday – 10 November 2017 .

Both Ba and Bapuji went after dinner to kids’ maternal grandparents (Doug and Kathy) home

They were invited to visit and play social bridge. Shannon had gone for a conference at work -usually she does not work on Fridays. The conference was for two days -so Shannon was away on Saturday for most of the day . All three kids (Maya, Kieran and Priya) had opportunity to play with Ba and Bapuji – with theri dad being around too.

On Saturday 11 November 2017 – Sunir also took Maya and Kieran for their weekly swimming session while Priya remained with Ba/Bapuji.

Then on Saturday evening -all went to Oshwal Diwali function in Mississauga – Priya had a great time along with Maya and Kieran.

7) on Sunday, Doug/Kathy & Ryan (along with Cole) came for dinner at Sunir/Shannon home . Heather did not come as she was gone to another party. Ba’s (Jackie’s) birthday was celebrated with a take-out Thai dinner & a cake (ginger ) by Shannon. All sang ” Happy Birthday” to Ba.

Monday 13 November 2017 – a Kenya lady came to Sunir/Shannon home for cleaning job. Ba/Bapuji went out to the local library. Maya was at school and the other two kids (Kieran and Priya) went to a music class with their mom . this way people do not come in the way when cleaning of the house is being done.

Tuesday 14 November 2017

Ba/Bapuji returned back to Deep River – after spending a week with Maya. Kieran and Priya along with their parents

Wednesday 15 November 2017

This day Sachin had a demonstration in his class with other kids to participate in a play (children performing Little Red Robin) and playing a recorder. His nana/nani went to cheer him – between 4.00 till 5.15 pm. Also his dad (who had just returned from Toronto – from his business trip) was there. His mom could not come as she was working that day in Pembroke.

His teacher Miss McCarthy had sent a note to all parents to that . The whole weak till Friday the children did different play.

Sunday 19 November 2017

This evening Sitara, her mom and nana/nani went to Childs Auditorium , Mackenzie Community School (Deep River) to watch a “A Passage to Bollywood ” by a Dance Company from Mumbai, India . Sachin and Sunjay did not come and went home . It was classical Bollywood type dancing with a love theme.

Note : Sitara had hurt her knee this last couple of days – she is taking part in gymnastic presentation in the coming week -hopefully she recovers in time. Plus she now (as of Wednesday 22 November 2017) . has flu and recently she is going through some changes (re: her maturity as becoming a pre-teen) . So remains a bit downcast but I am sure she will spring back to her normal self soon.

From: Nina Shah <ninashah@hotmail.com>
Sent: November 21, 2017 12:58 PM
To: pravinshah@sympatico.ca; Nina Shah; Sunjay Mistry
Subject: This week’s schedule

Today – Tuesday – Nov 21   –   we will go home after Candu at 5pm – Sitara has hurt her knee so she will not be skating.   We are not coming to your house for dinner tonight!   Sunjay is at Ski Patrol tonight too.

Wednesday Nov 22 – 7:45am – kids at mom/dad’s house for breakfast – then to school.   Then sitara walks to Olga’s for art.   Mom to pick Sitara up at 5pm and pay Olga $20 for art lesson (we will give you $20 in the morning).   Feed Sitara and take to Candu at 6:15pm.   Don’t sit and watch her swim – go home.   Come back at 7:45pm to pick her up and take her home.   Get her to brush and change into pj’s and we will pick her up at 8:30pm.   She needs to sleep early at home.   Sachin will walk to library after school – Sunjay will pick Sachin up at the library at 4:15pm to drive him to beachburg for his hockey game at 6pm.   The game will finish at 7:45pm and then we will drive back home.

Thursday – 7:45am – kids at mom/dad’s house for breakfast – then to school.   Kids will walk to Candu.   Sitara skates at 4:30pm if her knee doesn’t hurt.   Take her to the arena at 4:10pm.   YOU DO NOT HAVE TO STAY.   Go to watch Sachin at the pool and bring him home at 5:15pm.   I will be back from work between 6:45 and 7pm.   You can go and pick Sitara up from the arena at 6:30pm if you want and she can eat.   Sunjay is leaving for Ottawa at 4pm and will be back Friday night at 8pm.

Friday – I do not work.   I will put the kids on the bus and then the kids have eye dr appointments in Pembroke at 1pm.   I will bring them back for powerskating at 5pm and badminton lessons at 6pm.   I will feed them in Pembroke.

Thank you for all your help!!!

Nina and Sunjay

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Friday   01 December 2017
This day the Sitara and Sachin along with the parents came over to Deep River and stayed the night with their nana/nani – this is because on Saturday Sachin was to participate in the ice Hockey match first with the Petawawa novice team (early in the morning at 8.00 am) and then with Pembroke team at 12.00 noon.   Also Sitara had her gymnastic session in Petawawa at 11.00 am. So staying in Deep River saves time and generates travel convenience – besides giving Grandparents a fabulous time with the family.
So on Saturday, all (including Sitara) went to the Deep River arena just before 8.00 am to cheer Sachin in his play against the Petawawa team – though they lost big time.   At 12.00 noon game , his mom and Sitara were not there as Sitara was driven to her Gymnastic session (in Petawawa) by her mom but Sachin’s dad and nana/nani were there. However in that match against Pembroke the Deep River team lost big time . Sachin enthusiasm for playing hockey was   evident and he was relaxed and happy to get an opportunity to play.
On Saturday, then all went to Deep River downtown around 5.15 pm to watch the Santa parade – in which Sachin and his dad were in one float   (by the Mt. Martin Ski patrol team) . The parade startted at 5,30 pm sharp beginning from the old A & P store location and went around the Deep River Town Hall before returning to the start point.

Sunday 03 December 2017
This day Sitara was participating in XPERIENCE GYMNASTIC AND UVGC program held at Fellows School in Pembroke – which presented gymnastics   with various category of gymnasts trainees as   part of   a play called   ” Once upon a fairy tale “.   Sitara was in the fifth part of the play ( called   – In the dwarfs’ cottage) and she amongst others (of her colleagues) posed as a cleaner and with that they   demonstrated their gymnastic skills .       Nana/nani attended the event along with the whole Mistry family.
Monday 04 December 2017
Sachin is participating in the area wise junior ice hockey tournaments – and with that program had been playing matches with Petawawa, Pembroke and Barrys Bay teams. This day they had gone to Barrys Bay – drivenby his dad (of course missing school ) . Their team won the match 3 to 0 . Earlier matches with Petawawa and Pembroke (played at Deep River Arena) during the weekend did not get any win .
Saturday 09 December 2017
Both Sitara and Sachin came over to nana/nani home for a sleep-over. In   fact the whole Mistry family to spend the night at nana/nani place in Deep River -as the parents were going to a party in Deep River. So the kids were to spend time with nana/nani. Nani took Sitara for her figure skating at the Deep River Arena – while nana played with Sachin (after watching a Pokomen movie ) -catch ball and soft ball soccer in the living room.
Also an e-mail from Toronto   – Priya’s dad sent a message   with a title   – We have a walker – :
” Priya just got the hang of walking over the past day or so. Be prepared when we come for Christmas. She is a rascal! ”

After that we   talked on the phone with her dad and a bit with Maya .     Kieran was away from home with his mom – to have gone for shopping getting ready for Christmas.

Sunday 10 December 2017

This day kids (Sitara and Sachin) helped in decorating the artificial Christmas Tree – that nana/nani had put up on Friday (08 December 2017) in the Deep River home living room.   The Tree is lighted with a nice star ( separately lighted) on the top. This   year the Tree is a smaller one – not used the bottom part that belongs to the whole Tree.

This Sunday was exciting one on another count. Nina worked hard and prepared and then   gave a training session to a group in the J.L. Gray building on the subject of – How to use “naloxone kits”.
This was is a   part of Deep River Ski patrol team initiative.

Note:

” This is a opiod overdose kit .   Naloxone blocks or reverses the effects of opioid medication, including extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, or loss of consciousness.An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic.”

Also this day Sunjay was participating in the training of   – the techniques of CPR ”“ cardiopulmonary resuscitation and this day he had his second test. The third and final will be next week (Tuesday). This is also   a   part of Deep River Ski patrol team initiative.

Tuesday 12 December 2017
Mall building sold to Tushar/Ragini effective   08 December 2017. Sunjay completed his final test for CPR training. Sailed through.
Thursday   14 December 2017
Celebrated   Nina’s birthday at nana/nani home   – simple family affair .   Friday 0n 15 December 2017   , Sunjay went to Calabogie (near Pembroke)     for downhill ski instructor training
Saturday   16 December 2017
Sachin is participating in the –   Christmas Junior Music Performance at Childs Auditorium (Deep River) – part of his school activity.
It was piano playing –   Christmas Junior Music Performance – Dec 16, 2017 – Frosty the Snowman
Sunday 17 December 2017
These past few days -from Friday evening to Sunday , kids’ dad have been occupied – Sunjay going to Calabogie (near Pembroke)   for downhill ski instructor training .     So kids are with Nina – going places and shopping in Pembroke   etc as well continue with their extra-curricular activities .
The following was posted by Nina on her Facebook Wall – with photos – to-day:
” She (that is Sitara ) would NOT go anywhere near Santa no matter how much he chatted her up so he came to her. And then we had to work hard to get a smile   out of her. It’s just like when she was 1! He (that is Sachin) chatted Santa up got almost 10 min as there was no one else in line     ”
Note: Since last few months Sitara has become more reserved and shy. Hopefully she will regain her mojo and smile often soon.
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nana/nani just sold their mall property in Petawawa effective 8th December 2017 – Tushar & his wife Ragini. This will bring a bit of respite and free time – though monthly income will diminish.
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Monday 18 December 2017
The following e-mail was received   today from Shannon – sharing some moments from Maya, Kieran and Priya’s activities.
” Here are a few recent photos. We have Priya looking at the miniature village at my Gran’s condo, Maya showing off her new toothless grin, and Kieran’s art. His pictures are usually very “abstract”, but I think we can recognize Santa’s animal helper in this one!”
Monday 18 December 2017
This day Sitara and Sachin participated in their school assembly sing song ahead of Christmas holidays.   The program was in the afternoon about 2,30 pm. Nana/nani could not attend as they were in Petawawa   – having a meeting with the new owner of the mall property and then playing bridge card game at Lions Club.
Monday 25 December 2017
nana/nani spent Christmas Day at Mackey – arriving there at about 10:30 am. Both Sitara and Sachin were up and ready for opening their Santa gifts . They got lots of gifts – different types . Educational to play items as well as cloths and books . Nana/Nani gave Sachin an Electric Circuit Board – making various electrical items . Sitara got a Chemistry set .
Nana/nani spent the night at Mackey – played games with kids and their parents while watching TV program on their new TV ( some 60 inch) installed in the Recreation Room .
Maya ,Kieran and Priya (along with their parents) spent their Christmas Day with their grandparents ( maternal side) in Toronto. They got a combined gift – a doll house(so all kids can play together) from their Ba/Bapuji .   This Doll House will be presented to them when celebrating Christmas in Deep River ( with their Ba / Bapuji/ cousins – Sitara and Sachin/ and their Nina Foi and Sunjay Fuva ) on coming Friday 29 December 2017.
Maya ,Kieran and Priya are coming to Deep River on Thursday   28 December 2017 – being driven there by their parents.
On Saturday 30 December – all celebrate Priya’s 1st birthday (born on 22 December 2016) here with her Ba, Bapuji, cousins Sitara and Sachin, her Nina Foi, Sunjay Fuva and of course with her sister Maya , brother Kieran and her parents.   The birthday party was at Mackey – her Nina Foi/Sunjay Fuva organized a superb party. Nadia and her family were also participating in the birthday celebration. The day was most joyful . Ba/Bapuji (nana/nani) returned to Deep River at about 10.30 pm – very cold outside . Temperatures are dipping for last few days.     Priya, her   siblings and parents stayed at Mackey for the night.
Sunday 31 December 2017
After spending time at home- kids playing few board games and after dinner (around 7.30 pm) all went to Petawawa Civic Center   for free skating and other entertainment for the last day of the year.   Stayed there till the end ( 9.00 pm)
Both Kieran and Maya were supported by their dad , Nina Foi and their cousins (Sitara and Sachin)   It was a cold night hovering around -20 degrees C.     Both had great fun while Priya got looked after by her mom . Ba/Bapuji were also there.

 

 

POEM : O! Canada Happy 150th

Here is the POEM I penned on the occasion of   Canada Day and its 150th Anniversary.

This POEM was recited at the Renfrew Bridge Club game held to celebrate Canada’s 150th – on Wednesday   June 28, 2017.

The POEM has also been sent to North Renfrew Times for publication. So far not happened.

Mayor of Deep River has sought permission to recite the poem on Saturday ( Canada Day celebration   ).

24 June 2017

O!  Canada

 

Happy 150th

We adore you

Our benefactor par excellence

 

Endowed with Four Seasons

A great landscape

from sea to sea

 

An embodiment of freedom

Equality , Diversity , and Humanity

Our Canada instills dignity in all

 

Men, women, children

From all over

We rejoice your embrace

 

A developed country

Humble and well poised

Technology   savvy , peaceful

 

Many Many thanks

For accepting us in your fold

Being there for our children

 

We celebrate Canada day

With gusto, pride and joy

Happy 150th Canada

 

O!   Canada

We stand on guard for thee

 

Pravin Shah