This post is a continuation of  the earlier posts — Being Grandparents (paternal) -1 & Being Grandparents (paternal)- 2 as the previous  posts were becoming a tad bit busy.  

Thursday   6 October 2011

This day Maya’s cousins from Mackey came to visit her. Both Sitara & Sachin travelled to Toronto with their parents in their Saab car.   They had great time together.     The cousins returned back to Mackey on Monday 10 October 2011 – with their mom as their dad stayed behind for his office work.   Unfortunately on the last day ( Sunday night or early Monday morning) Sachin had fallen sick with Croup.   He was treated at Sick Children hospital- taken there at 4.00 a.m in the morning .   He had to have an IV also as his heart rate were found a tad bit higher (than normal) for a  2 year old kid.  

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About Croup

Croup is a condition that causes an inflammation of the upper airways ”” the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea). It often leads to a barking cough or  hoarseness, especially when a child cries.

Most cases of croup are caused by viruses. Those involved are usually parainfluenza virus (which accounts for most cases). Croup is most common ”” and symptoms are most severe ”” in children 6 months to 3 years old, but can affect older kids, too.

Most cases of viral croup are mild and can be treated at home, though rarely it can be severe and even life-threatening. Some children are more prone to developing croup when they get a viral upper respiratory infection.

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Maya however was oblivious to this as she is just an infant but she she held herself well .  

Tuesday 11 October 2011

Maya   had her two-month checkup this day (morning time) -taken by her mom to the clinic.   She  had done well and had  two shots (vaccination) . She cried only for a few minutes at the time and then was quite happy for the next 2 hours while she & her mom  visited her great gran and great grandpa.  

Afterwards  she was a bit   cranky and possibly sore and could not take the  infant Tylenol -which when given – she  coughed and choked and threw it all up… poor girl.  

Maya  is growing like a champ! She is up to 11 lb 4 oz!!! (50% ile). Her head is 38cm (25% ile) and she is nice and long at 59cm (75% ile)!  

Her dad was away this day to California (on office business) missing  her .

Sunday 16 October 2011

It seems Maya was getting flavour of  Halloween early as her parents were dressing her with Haloween outfits    and savouring the beauty that was Maya.

Maya’s photo in orange pumpkin emboidered outfit was corculated for all to enjoy the beautiful baby .

Friday 21 October 2011

Maya went to Montreal – in French milieu with her parents. Her dad had a business appointment there  so the family decided to  make it a vacation  weekend.

Sitara and Sachin  were  travelling to Toronto with their parents this weekend to participate in a Diwali Party organised by (Nina & Sunir) Deep River  friend, Priyanka .  Sunir /Shannon & maya were also invited but they had to skip that due to visit to Montreal  .  Though Maya missed her cousins from Mackey, she was okay as she had a great visit in Montreal with her mom taking her places (when  her dad was busy with his business appointment) .  

This is what her mom said in her e-mail with a photo of a visit to  the biodome  .

 ”   Maya aime Montreal ‘.

She loved looking at all the different ecosystems, especially the rainforest (where this photo was taken). Her mom  had some delicious croissants for breakfast and  both enjoying Montreal . Of Course  Sunir was at his business meeting.  

Monday 31 October 2011

Maya’s first Halloween day was exciting to say the least. She was part of a competition at her dad’s office for Costume   Contest ’11.

Her dad  had posed himself as a Pumpkin farmer -holding Maya – dressed in splendid orange pumpkiny outfit in his arms .  Her bapuji commented on the Contest website that  

” Maya rocks with her dad Sunir, She is just pumpkinly ”“ remind me of Haloween”.

Her mom had also circulated (to friends and family members) a latest photo of Maya in a different Halloween costume dress (orange) -where Maya seems to be giving a scaring scream. Atta girl – you are in a halloween spirit here.

Maya had a run of Halloween “Trick or Treat” outing with her parents in the neighbourhood  on  the Halloween day  – at known homes.

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Friday 4 November to Monday 7 November 2011   – Visit to Deep River & Diwali celebration .

Maya

Friday   4 August 2011

She came,   she conquered and she left.   That is Maya , Ba & Bapuji’s VIP.

Maya arrived in Deep River on Friday late at night about   10.00 p.m  – her first visit to Deep River  . She came from Toronto with her parents driven in a rental silver Nissan (Altima 25S) saloon car .   She was carried into her Ba/bapuji’s home   nicely saddled in her car seat . She was waking up from her sleep — earlier induced by running car – being in the car from Huntsville after stopping over at her maternal Great Grandma/Grandpa home at Huntsville.

Maya is getting to be 3 months old (born on 7 August 2011) . Both ba/Bapuji welcomed her Indian style – giving her “Good Luck” money and kissed her. She was   a bit groggy as she was getting up from her sleep   but after a few squeals -s he was taken by her mom to her already prepared crib – to continue her sleep.

It was surmised that her squeals were a bit “Croupy” in sound – which signified a congestion in her chest. It being cold and furnace being on   with heat – it was decided to start   up a humidifier and a vapouriser . The   vapouriser   was placed in her room for the night while the humidifier was left in the living room (which was shut off after about an hour) .

Next day on Saturday ( 5 November 2011) , she woke up early . She came into the kitchen with her mom.     Bapuji was up also and was getting ready to have his breakfast .   Maya gave her most captivating smile to Bapuji   -which send him to all happiness. She also responded to Bapuji’s baby talk to her . She was most charming. Her mom   fed her changed her when her Ba also was ready to coddle her.     Ba held her in her arms and played with her.   Thuis allowed her mom went back to sleep -to get rest . Ba played with her on the carpet and then she was placed on a layer baby blankets with infant toys around her. She played with both Ba & bapuji     and picked a toy and try that out in her mouth.   After a bit of playing with her Ba/Bapuji   she went to sleep   and slept by herself for 3/4 of an hour.

Maya went for a stroll (in her stroller) outdoors with her parents in the morning before lunch. . She had a bird’s eye view of   Deep River from the stroller   -and went downtown and stopped over with her parents   at the Coffee Shop .  After they returned back from the stroll and had lunch- Maya had a nap before  getting ready to go out to Diwali party.  She got ready at about 3.00 p.m and after all adults were ready – everyone went by car ( her parents and Maya in one car and Ba/bapuji in another car)  to Lions Hall in Chalk River to celebrate Diwali with   the East Indian Community and others of a larger community who came as guests.  

Her cousins Sitara & Sachin came later at the party as they had other activities to attend to.

It was a bit of a surprise that our invited   guest , Anne, to the party was already at the Lions Hall parking   waiting for us .  Anne is one of   Bapuji’s   Petawawa bridge card playing colleagues – who came out earlier (with other two ladies – Bapuji’s bridge colleagues) to celebrate Maya’s first month’s birthday ( a lunch at Deep River PetroCanada restaurant) .

At the parking lot, Anne  got introduced to Maya , Shannon & Sunir . Anne was so excited and pleased to see Maya . She had a gift for Maya (and also for her Ba (Jackie) . Sunir/Shannon  wished    Anne  a happy 65th birthday -so did Bapuji.    Anne was a bit surprised for that . (Bapuji had earlier  informed Sunir/Shannon about Anne’s birthday).   Ba was already gone into the Lions Hall -so Anne did not meet her at that time.   However, immediately when all arrived in the Lions Hall , Ba was there at the entrance.   So both Anne & Ba exchanged pleasantries.  

The Diwali program was excellent. Maya took all happenings in   her small strides.     She got introduced   to many Community friends by her parents . Maya also took part in Puja and did Aarti too – all with her parents. Anne was there all along.

Both Sitara and Sachin   (Maya’s cousins) arrived a bit later but joined to enjoy the entertainment program & after that the Magic Show by magician Steve .   At one point when Sitara was sitting next to her ShannonMami – Bapuji brought Maya to her. Oh! Sitara -so lovingly caressed her then kissed her cheek.   That was very moving. During the entertainment program, bapuji   gave a short   talk on Diwali & also   recited a poem on Autumnal peace . At that time Bapuji   publicly welcomed Maya to her first visit to Deep River to celebrate her first Diwali & Indian (Hindu) New Year and to commemorate this visit her Bapuji announced a small contribution to the Deep River & District Hospital towards purchase of capital equipment.

After the Magic Show (by Steven Anthony) and dinner , there was time for free floor dancing – initially Gujarati Gurba  and then Punjabi Bhangra.   Sitara was all into it with her nice Indian purple outfit adorned with a soft purple “duppatta“.   She was very particular to have the “duppatta” .   Sachin also took part in dancing with great   enthusiasm.

Maya   was not to be left behind. She danced carried by her Faiba (Nina) on the floor a few minutes but more with her Bapuji.   All had good dinner and all in all good fun at the function.

 Maya left with her parents early for home so she can have her   sleep and rest.  

On Sunday (6 November) morning Maya got up early. She was all pleasant and charming with broad smiles and with beautiful twinkle in the eyes.   She was coddled by her Ba & Bapuji while her parents had opportunity to take time to rest.     She was placed on blankets on the living room carpet and both Ba & Bapuji played with her- sometimes with infant toys. Maya then went to sleep for 45 minutes . That was very refreshing.    

Both Sitara & Sachin came over with their parents to play with Maya and also to spend time with her parents . Moreover this day (being Maya & her parents being here in Deep River) , it was an opportune time to celebrate Sunjay’s   (Sitara & Sachin’s dad – Maya’s Fuva) upcoming   birthday – his birthday being on Saturday 12 November 2011- (when both Ba & Bapuji will be in Toronto -to attend an Engineering conference — of course also Maya & her parents would   also have returned back to Toronto after a short visit to Deep River to celebrate Diwali with the family and the East Indian Community.)

Before lunch . a ceremonial cake ( baked by Maya’s Ba – Sitara/Sachin’s nani), with candles (Sitara helped to place the candles on the Cake) was carried from kitchen by Sitara & her nani with birthday song  -to living room where Sunjay was sitting with the family -all having small talk about many things.   Everyone joined in the birthday celebration with song and chatter, It was also recognised that it was also Maya’s 3-month birthday   (on 7 November 2011) and  also of Maya’s Ba’s   birthday (on 15 November 2011) .

The cake was taken to the Dining Room table  – candles were blown off ( with a wish)   by Sunjay and cake was then cut by Sunjay helped by both Sitara and Sachin.      

The cake was eaten at that time by Sitara & Sachin – the adults felt to leave eating cake after the lunch.   This was done once the lunch was over. All had great time during lunch . Both Sitara & Sachin also enjoyed the lunch – even though   having eaten the cake before.       Maya was a well behaved baby during lunch   and kept all enthralled by her cooing and smiles.

After lunch, there were gifts for all from the grandparents (for Sunjay’s birthday , for Diwali to all , for celebrating motherhood to Shannon &   for being Faiba ( Maya’s  paternal auntie) to Nina .

Sachin left early to go to Mackey with his dad   as he needed   to have his afternoon nap.   Though he did not want to go but it was necessary for his rest.

Sitara had more time to spend with Maya – first she was alone without   Sachin being here and second that her   swimming Class at Mackenzie Pool   was cancelled for some reason.   Sitara usually goes for her swimming class on Sundays   at 6.00 p.m     Sitara spent this time to play with all but more with Maya. She laid besides   Maya on the living room carpet caressing   and coddling Maya her .  She also played with Maya with the infant toys .   At one time when Sitara was alone in the living room -laid along Maya- Sitara entertained Maya with nursery songs (the songs that she knew). That was very touching – love oozing out from a 4 year old girl for her infant cousin.

Sitara and he mom left about 7.00 p.m for home to Mackey . Sitara was heavy hearted – she did   not want to go but being   a 4 year mature girl she did go though reluctantly.

After that Maya went to sleep in the crib and adults (her parents & grandparents) took opportunity   to play bridge (card game) for about an hour.   This was a distraction for fun — to have after  the   day’s   entertainment with Maya.

Monday 7 November 2011

Maya was up as usual early and she was greeted with Happy 3 months Birthday by her Ba and a bit after by her Bapuji .  The parents had   some time to rest but then they had to get ready  early too as they had plans to depart for Toronto early .     Lo Behold ! both Sitara & Sachin also came from Mackey (before going to their Baby-sitter home & then   For Sitar to go to School) . This morning meeting resulted in all three   grandchildren gathered around their grandma on   the living room carpet -when a nice pose for a joint photo was established and photos taken.   All three children were united in hugs and on their grandma’s lap.   Both Sitara & Sachin said bye to Maya – kissed her and then gave hugs to their ShannonMami & SunirMama   .

Maya went out on a walk with her mom prior to getting ready   to go to Toronto.     Maya left with her parents for Toronto at about 10.00 a.m – the car drove away quietly leaving   behind many   good impressions and sprinkles of love and warmth .     The grandparents will miss Maya – but they have already started looking and enjoying   many photos and video clips left behind.  

On the way, they stopped in Huntsville at Maya’s maternal  great grandparents and arrived safely at Toronto around 7.45 pm. Maya had a successful long drive away from home. In the past she had gone away  a few times to the cottage country and once to Niagara Falls. Atta girl!

She came,   she conquered and she left.   That is Maya , Ba & Bapuji’s VIP.

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Saturday 26 November 2011

This day Maya goes to Cuba – her first plane ride (air-flight) to a foreign country. Of course with her parents, Grandparents (maternal) & others –   who have been invited to attend a wedding   of Shannon’s family friend. Unfortunately before the flight (two to three days before) both Maya & Shannon had been suffering from cold.

Sunday 4 December 2011

This day was of anticipation . First Sitara & Sachin (Maya’s cousins  living here close to Deep River)  were to come home in Deep River to help decorate the Christmas tree and then for all to go out in the evening to watch the Deep River Santa parade. But also all were waiting anxiously to hear from Toronto that Maya   & her parents have come back from Cuba safely and having had a good time there.  

Note: At the time when Maya & parents went to Cuba last Saturday- both Maya & her mom (Shannon) were sick & miserable with cold .

This had raised a bit of anxiety level in grandparents. Good news were received  from Toronto in the evening that all have arrived back in Toronto safely and with better health . This topped the day having had good time with Sitara &  Sachin during the day.    

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Here is Maya’s  view of the Cuban experience as articulated by her Grandma (maternal), Kathy,  who also was with her during the visit to Cuba.   This writing was received by electronic mail on  December 08, 2011 at 10.00 pm  Maya”™s Trip to Cuba: Nov 26 ”“ Dec 4, 2011    (as told to her grandma)    My parents and I went on an airplane and I showed my passport.  

   Cuba is nice but you have to wear a hat. I don”™t like that. But you can have bare feet. I like that except when someone splashes cold water on my toes.    

One day we went to a wedding and I wore pink shoes. But only for a few minutes.      

A lot of people like to sit still in Cuba and read a book. I don”™t like that. So some people took me for a walk. I didn”™t even know them all but they were quite nice.      

One day at the beach I got sand in my ears, eyes, nose, bellybutton, mouth and everywhere else. Then I had a shower and a bath with Mommy. After that we didn”™t go to the beach.    Usually I went everywhere with Mommy and Daddy but one night I didn”™t. I was already asleep so I didn”™t know it was just Grandma in the room.    

In the airport on the way home, Daddy had to wake me up and take me out of my stroller to get my photo taken, so they could compare it to my passport to see if I was really me. That was funny.      

Cuba has lots of things to look at but nothing as interesting as my Winkel toy.    M.J.K.S.    

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Wednesday 7 December 2011  To-day Maya is 4 months old. Her photo taken in Toronto to-day by her mom shows tahts he has now grown and graduaated to sit in a “bumbo” seat.  

It thrilled her Ba & bapuji  most that Maya graduated to the ‘bumbo” seat.  She has her signature conversational smile (in the photo) which wins hearts .  

Note: To-day is a special  day for  her Ba/Bapuji – as they  bought a new 40″ SHARP HD Led TV and had that delivered and put together  at home in Deep River.  Saturday    10 December 2011  

According to her mom’s e-mail posted today to family & friends ,  Maya seems to be getting in the spirit of celebrating her first Christmas   and today is the first Christmas party that she will be participating in.   This is what her mom wrote   ” Maya is all set for our Christmas party today… minus her party dress, of course! ”   Atta girl.   She likes to be coddled. She gives smiles which are so friendly
that there is no doubt that she will be star of the party.

     

   

Maya is very fortunate to have loving maternal grandparents – close by in Toronto

Maya’s maternal grandparents (Kathy & Doug) live  not too far from Maya’s parents’ home in Toronto and thus Maya gets an immense opportunity to be coddled, kissed and hugged  often by them.      

Recently ,   Kathy wrote an interesting  humourous  article in her Church’s ( Fairlawn Avenue United Church)  Fall 2011 issue newspaper. The  Title: ” My Goofy Remarkable Family” and the article is hilarious and really excellent.

It is reproduced here – See Below:

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Sunday   7 August 2011

Maya Jashoda Knights Shah was born at 2.29 p.m in Toronto (Mount Sinai Hospital)on Sunday 7th August 2011.   The   expectant mother Shannon (& Sunir) were driven to hospital by Heather (Shannon’s sister) & Ryan. The baby weighed  6 lbs 9 ozs. at birth. Her length = 20 inches.

She is our 3rd (third) grandchild and 1st (first) for our son (Sunir) & his wife Shannon.

Welcome dear Maya . You are the divine representative of the Goddess and came in this world with high hopes and agenda to make everyone   – all those with whom you will get acquinted in this world- happy.

There is so much joy in our hearts . There is excitement and our feet  off the floor making happy dancing moves.   Sitara, your cousin sister is so excited – she just wanted to express her happiness – which she did on the phone  to her nana/nani . She   says “She (Maya) is a girl and I am so happy”. She likes the name Maya and immediately made musical ” Maya -Aaya” lyrics. When Sitara was infant and when she started to talk -she used to call herself Aaya (instead of Sitara).

We are looking forward to hold you in our bosom and hug and kiss you and just coddle you. When we come there by car (driving) on Monday from Deep River – we will  ‘meet & greet’ and dance the joy of our heart.

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On Monday (8 Aug 2011), we (the grandparents) left Deep River to travel to Toronto to hold and hug our granddaughter – born a day before. We arrived at Toronto about 5.00 pm and while contacting Sunir we noted that they were still at Mount Sinai Hospital (Room 1035) – baby and mother not discharged as yet. So we went to the hospital directly and parked the car on Murray street (The hospital being at 600 University Av).

After parking the car, we went into the hospital from back door – only a minute and across the road from the parking spot . We were told by the receptionist at the  ground floor that Shannon Knights and baby were at 10th floor -Room 1035. When we arrived on 10th floor, looking for the  Room 1035, we  bumped into Heather (Shannon’s sister) who was also coming to visit (she works at the hospital in a building next door)-this helped us getting navigated faster to the room.  The baby was with Sunir when we arrived in the room. She is a doll. So calm and just enjoying daddy’s cuddle.

And we (grandpa & grandma) hugged and kissed and expressed our utter delight. Both parents were fine though a bit tired for lack of sleep thru the night. But they were just preppy and happy. After   sometime, Kathy  (Shannon’s mom) also arrived by subway. We just congratulated each other for such a nice bundle of joy amongst us.

(( Note: Maya’s stem cell repository (from umbilical cord) – with a private establishment -has been established by her parents at the time of the birth.))

Mom & baby were not discharged as yet as blood tests for jaundices etc. were not yet completed.

Everyone was hungry -so it was decided that  (as the discharge is delayed) -it may be not a bad idea to bring Take-out food from a restaurant in the area. So Kathy and I went out to grab some food. In the meantime, Doug (Shannon’s dad) had left home (with a baby car seat) to   provide transport to the baby , mom & Sunir to their home. .   We met Doug downstairs on the Murray Street – our timing seems to be matching.

Kathy and I managed to find an Indian Restaurant (Jodhpuri Indian Restaurant on Baldwin St.) -all others ( Japanese,, Vietnamese, Italian etc ) were found not suitable.  We got take-out food from the Indian Restaurant and brought this to the room- where we had a meal -all standing & scattered in the room -with baby being held by Doug (her grandpa) – who did not partake in the meal as he had eaten earlier at home before coming out to the Hospital. While we were out getting the food, the discharge instructions ( for the baby and mom) were received.   After dinner- all was packed up, Maya was placed in her Car seat and then they   (Shannon, Sunir & Maya ) were driven home (on Woburn Av.) by Doug and Kathy.

We (grandpa and grandma – now Ba & Bapuji )  came separately to the house. We were a tad bit earlier -so were able to welcome Maya to her home.

Maya was brought in the house and her Ba & Bapuji were in the house to welcome her.   She just took in the atmosphere of her home and was “just cool”.

Both sets of grandparents were present to welcome her along with her parents. Appropriate photos were taken for memory. After sometime, her Erica Auntie (Shannon’s sister) arrived (we call her “masi” – a Guajarati title for a mother’s sister).

Again more photos were taken . Erica had brought gifts for Maya and mom. These were opened and gifts from both the grandparents were also opened and enjoyed. Beautiful greeting cards welcoming the baby were also read out and then placed on the fireplace mantle in the living room.

After that  tea & desert (cake baked by Maya’s Ba ) were consumed with happy merriment by  all for  having such a lovely girl in the family.

Doug and Kathy left to return back to their cottage (some 1 1/2 hour drive). Erica left too and we remainder settled down. The baby was comfortable and have taken in the home -which will be hers for ages.

Next day (Tuesday 9 August)

John & Lydia-from Ottawa- came over to visit and Congratulate Sunir & Shannon for being new parents and welcome dear Maya – They brought a booster seat (Fisher & Price) as a gift and some breakfast pastry etc.

All had great time relishing the occasion and just coddling and loving the baby. After some time, all had  breakfast with coffee ( coffee made by Sunir) and camaraderie continued till after noon   -after that John & Lydia left to go to a cottage (at  Georgian Bay).

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This day she (Maya) had her first hic-cups after being born.

Her Great grandma (Rae) and her great Aunt Pat visited her in the evening.

She also gave everyone (especially the parents) relief and comfort by having all her body functions completed –  which kind of proved that she is feeding herself well.

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On Wednesday (10 Aug 2011), Maya’s parents took her to visit her paediatrician.  Her first after birth . She got to sit in her Bapuji’s car for this outing. They were gone at 11.30 am for noon appointment.

This day Maya was found sucking her thumb and fingers -a comfort action by babies.

She is a night owl for her first days in the world. She sleeps well   during day and also if she is held.

However she did sleep in the bassinet well.

On Wednesday at 3.00 p.m. – her parents and her Bapuji took her out  for “a stroll on the street”  – around the block which encompass the Yonge Street .  After that her parents took her to Doug/Kathy home ( her maternal grandparents) to meet with Erica (her Aunt) while Bapuji returned home. Unfortunately her aunt was not there as she had left to visit Maya.

Towards evening, her Bapuji got an opportunity to hold Maya in his arms and coddled her   for an hour and a half. After dinner she was cozy and slept well

On Thursday (5th day-11 August 2011)

Maya  accompanied her aunt Erica and mom to Starbucks for about 45 minutes. She found many admirers for her there.  

On Friday ( 12 August 2011) , it was Maya’s  “Chhathi”  day (sixth day after birth) . The “Chhatti” ceremony was conducted . The “Chhatti”  in Hinduism is one where it is said God writes the child’s fate.

Her aunt Erica came to join Maya’s parents and Ba/Bapuji to participate in the ceremony.   The Grandma (Ba)   conducted the ceremony. Ba recited prayers to God Almighty for Maya’s gift to us and seeking blessings for her well being and good upbringing.

After that she whispered blessings in Maya’s ears and rolling her over on the blanket laid on the dining table so Maya faces the lighted candle – and her fate is being written by the Goddess. Then her mom rolled her on the blanket and whispered in her ear the name given – Maya Jashoda Knights Shah. This was then followed by her dad. Her Aunt Erica gave her blessings . Then her Bapuji also whispered his blessings.  

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At the end of the ritual ceremony, Ba gave the following background:

” The Knights/Shah family is blessed with a little Angel on Sunday August 7, 2011 at 2.29 p.m at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, ON, Canada.

This little Angel is to-day blessed by Goddess Saraswati – the Goddess of learning and knowledge

The proud parents Shannon Knights and Sunir Shah the father have chosen the name ” Maya Jashoda Knights Shah” for their little girl. We the gathered relatives, Aunt Erica, Angel’s Granddad, Grandma, mom and Dad give our heartfelt blessings to our little Maya.

We wish you happiness, good health, prosperity, joy, and love forever. may you rock and roll in all that is good in life.

Love ”

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Maya was showered with lots of gifts from grandparents – all in pink hue. Also she got a pink piggy bank and a RESP cheque for her first RESP.  Grandpa (Bapuji) also gave a nice doll as a companion to Maya  while growing up.

There was a tad bit of incident -a sort of fireworks -with a gift wrapping paper-which got ignited when brushed against (accidently) the candle light. This was extinguished quickly – spreading few ashes on the floor.

This kind of enlivened the ceremony with excitement tripping over.

Maya is a cool girl -she took all the ceremonial things and gifts in her small strides with contentment and happiness in her heart.

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After the ceremony – after some time playing and coddling the baby – Ba  & Bapuji left for Deep River at 11.30 am (on Friday 12 August 2011) and arrived there at about 8.00 pm  -having spent an hour and a half at Mackey with Sitara and Sachin  (Maya’s cousin sister and cousin brother). Sitara -being 4 year old- was very excited to hear about Maya – she was so happy to have a cousin sister.

They telephoned Sunir/Shannon at about 8.00 pm to let them know of safe arrival in Deep River.  At about that time Sunir mentioned that they   had just given bath to Maya – her first at home.

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On Sunday ( 14 August 2011), Ba/Bapuji distributed sweets to friends in Deep River to celebrate Maya’s arrival amongst us.    Some remained to be delivered in the coming days .

Also on phone talking to Shannon, at about 9.30 pm Sunday- we found that they had just come from dinner at Doug/Kathy’s place in Toronto – this is first for Maya for an outing for dinner (at her grandparents home).

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Words of Wisdom:

The excitement of experiencing the miracle of birth can hardly be described. But once the initial euphoria settles down, the mind draws toward all sorts of worries that accompany the joy of parenthood. At the top of this list is the responsibility of raising the innocent child you bring into this world as a decent human being.

How do you raise a child to be ambitious, but not crafty or greedy? How do you teach her to view success and achievement as a means to render public service and do some good in life, and not as an end in itself that justifies the employment of all means fair and foul? How do you teach her that the quantum of power and influence that she seeks to acquire as a consequence of professional success is less important than what she plans to do with it?

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 Thursday 18 August to Sunday 21 August 2011

Maya got her first experience of the Canadian cottage life – when her parents  brought her  to Shannon’s parents’ cottage near Toronto (at Muskoka) -where she spent 3 nights – resplendent in summer clothes during the day and also trying out giant size sun glasses . She was darling of all there – her grandparents, great grandparents (Knights) and aunts .

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Thursday 25 August 2011

Bapuji was pleasntly surprised when he went to the Deep River post office to check his postal box for any mail. There was this lone letter for him.   It was a letter by our loving baby “Maya” – of course written by her mommy – expressing what Maya may be thinkig in her tiny mind.    

Here is the content of the letter (written on pink writing paper):

 ” Dear Ba & Bapuji

Thank you for welcoming me into the world. I loved cuddling with you and playing with you. Thanks   for all the nice presents … you are spoiling me already. I’m going to look so cute in all my pink outfits! Thank you so much for the piggybank & the RESP. You are going to help me grow big & smart!

Lots of love , Maya   xoxo   “

 Oh! Maya , what  a lovely letter with such sentiments . You are our family and newest member. Cuddling you was our height of happiness . We are so pleased to have you along with your cousin sister Sitara and cousin brother Sachin   – all of you   give us a continuity in this world . You give us a reason to live and enjoy life and your growth and successes.           Bapuji & also Ba.

On thye days (Friday  26 August 2011   to Sunday 28 August 2011) , Maya had visitors from Mackey . Her cousin  sister Sitara & cousin brother Sachin came to visit (along  with their parents).Maya was cuddled , held, hugged and kissed by Sitara – who was just ecstatic to  see her . Sachin also was mesmerised by looking at the baby.

So far –  as we understand (by telecon)  from  Maya’s parents –  that Maya has had a subway rides 4 times – since the day she was born on   7 August 2011.   The last time  she went by subway was to attend a dinner party ( Fan Expo program) on Saturday (27 August 2011) – and joined her cousin sister Sitara and cousin brother Sachin (who were with their parents)   Others in the group   were Dhanuka/Arun as well as Priyanka/Aman.

Sunday 4 September 2011This day ( in the evening about 8.00 p.m ) we had phone conversation with Maya’s parents. The following is a summary of that conversation :At about the last week of August , Maya started to focus (aiming her eyes) and seeing things of interest to her.   She also started grabbing and holding things such as her rattle . Her grip is getting firm and good.

This day (Sunday 4 September) she has started to take interest in drawing of  patterns – especially on a book .She touches and feels the book for about 20 seconds at a time.

These days Maya goes out for a walk with her proud dad ( of course Maya being in the stroller).   She is also beginning to play with the Activity Umbrella – attached to her crip (one side) but overhaging in the crib. She hits on the ‘monkey” figure on the Activity Umbrella.

She has become a trendy ‘urbane girl” in her short life –   went to restaurants at least 3 times so far – of course she chooses  her own special meals ( breast feeding)  . She has visited Star Bucks numerous times when going outdoors for a walk  with her mom.

Maya has also gone to a movie with her mom ( along with her mom’s friend and her baby) last Thursday 2011 Sept 1 at the Rainbow Cinema- near St. Lawrence Market – movie especially run for moms & children.

She is also a good hostess at home – when visitors come to meet and coddle her.

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Tuesday 6 September 2011

This day became   a special one for Maya . Her 1st month birhday is next day ( 7 September 2011)   as she was born on 7 August 2011. But her Ba & bapuji celebrated her 1st  month birthday  to-day as her Ba/ Bapuji were to travel to Ottawa next day for her Ba’s medical appointment.    

This lunch was the brainchild of one of her nana’s  bridge   (card game)  players/partners (Anne from Pembroke)  – when he goes to play in Petawawa ”” to celebrate one month birthday of Maya (Sitara”™s cousin – daughter of her ShannonMami & SunirMama). Maya was born on 7 August   2011 in Toronto.   There were also other bridge players ( Fran & Bernice from Deep River) who joined in the lunch to celebrate.

During lunch Sitara and Sachin joined their nana/nani,their mom to a lunch at the local Restaurant ( situated with the local PetroCanada Gas Station) . This ocassion also became celebration of Sitara”™s first day at school. This is a step up in her life . Our grandchild is growing up  and fast. Both Sitara and Sachin enjoyed the lunch and remembering Maya.

Maya’s Ba ( and that include her bapuji also) got  congratulations , gifts and cards (from her nana’s bridge partners) for her birthday celebration .   It was a joyous moment.

Both her Ba and Bapuji expressed heartfelt appreciation  for her nana’s bridge partners’ gesture and warmth .

Wednesday   7 September 2011     – Maya is   1 month old to-day (born on 7 August 2011)

 Maya’s mom sent the following information ( by e-mail dated 7 September 2011) :

 “Maya weighed in at a whopping 9 pounds at the doctor today for her one month check-up! I guess mommy’s milk is pretty yummy 😉

She is now 53 cm long (from 49 at birth) and her head measures 36 cm around (from 33 cm). Not bad for one month of growing!

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 Saturday 17 September 2011

This is the day Maya’s Ba & Bapuji came visiting from Deep River. They came in the evening ( having spent a night in Kingston – where her Bapuji was attending an engineering conference ) and to stay for a week – to enjoy Maya’s charm and infant cooing.

This is the day Maya took her first baby bottle   ( of course with her mommy’s milk) and thus now she can be fed away from her mother . She is slowly becoming independent from her birth emotions.  

Note: These days weather being mostly bright, sunny and clear – Maya is taken out for a walk by her mom everyday – Maya being in a stroller.

Sunday 18 September 2011  

This day Maya, her parents and her Ba/Bapuji were invited for a dinner at Maya’s maternal Grandparents (Kathy & Doug) home. They were joined by Maya’s auntie Heather and her boyfriend  , Ryan.    

This day is also a special one in Maya’s life. Maya took a soother ( in fact a soother which was attached to a toy   Giraffe) in her mouth for the first time .

Note: From this week – starting tomorrow (Monday) Maya goes out for one or another program (when these are offered in the neighborhood) – mom/toddler programs or moms meeting together while babies are watched/enjoyed by the moms who come for a  group   gathering.

Monday 19 September 2011 – Maya went with her mom for a toddler (infant) music program  .   She spent about 40 minutes at the music program – seems to enjoy it.   She apparently  seems to have enjoyed/preferred  “hot” songs and not too slow ones.

Tuesday 20 September 2011 – As per her daily routine (after Maya & her mom came home from a “toddler-mom” gathering in the neighborhood)  , Maya went for a walk in the afternoon with her mom – joined  by her Ba . Her Bapuji had gone to play cards ( Bridge Duplicate game)  at a neighborhood club – Regal- St. Clair Bridge Club located at Lawrence Plaza on Lawrence Av.

In the evening after her Bapuji returned from his card playing- he played with Maya and then let her play by herself on the living room sofa.   She enjoyed this separation and seem to have found her space and played by herself for about 20 minutes or so. She even did not look at her dad -who had just come from work and wanted to coddle Maya much. But she continued cooing and playing by herself.

This day she got to enjoy new experience .  She was allowed  into  the blue Swing-o-matic   – she enjoyed her swing ( sideways) and then went to sleep for a while. What a girl!
Wednesday   21 September 2011

This is the day Maya had great occurrences . First in the morning she was taken  to a clinic in Don Mils Roads area by her mom and her Bapuji (in Bapuji’s 2010 Toyota Corolla car) for ” Hearing test” . This test is requrement for all infants after birth   – mostly done at the hospital where babies are born but Maya missed   that at the hospital – so she had to go to the   clinic. The tests took only a couple of minutes and of course she was found okay in hearing.

After lunch  , all (the family – Maya, her parents and her Ba/Bapuji)  drove to Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake for a visit to   Maya’s Ba/Bapuji’s old friends – also these friends  had been like uncle/auntie to her dad when he was born and growing up.  Maya’s dad had been born In Niagara Falls in the   year 1979.  

First stop was in Niagara Falls to see Elly  – she is the  wife of our good friend Tony   (who passed away a couple of years ago)  .  Elly is in a   “Home”  and seems comfortable – though she would prefer a different “Home”  where she could communicate with others freely  . Most residents here are somewhat mentally challenged   -as the “Home”  is conceived to look after them – and subsidised by the Government too.    

After that we drove  to see the great and mighty Falls – – the drive to the NF was in rain and the drive to the Falls was cloudy and rainy but we saw both American & Canadian Falls clearly. Maya being enconsced in her car seat – she was not brought out as the weather was unfortunately inclement.   We also took a drive around the   Dufferin Island – where both Maya’s dad & her Auntie Nina used to go for fun and paddle boating when they were kids  growing up in Niagara Falls (of course taken there by Maya’s Ba/Bapuji)

After the tour of the mighty and famous Falls, the family then drove to  Niagara-On-The-Lake – this was to meet with Martha & Genero – our good friends from many decades. We had great dinner (Martha had prepared an  Indian menu – dal, rice & Cauliflower melange).
Maya just be – not quite awake but a bit tired . She let the family had a relaxed time with their freinds – with only minor distractions from her.

All drove back to Toronto arriving at about 11.00 pm –   it was cloudy – rains had stopped. Maya slept through  –   both when going and coming.

Note: On Wednesdays-  Maya’s dad is on paternity absence from office  . This will be until the end of 2011 – Christmas time .

Thursday 22 September 2011

This day Maya  to a program for babies with her mom.

Friday 23 September 2011  

This day  Maya’s Ba/Bapuji  returned to Deep River  after spending  time with her and her parents . It was really a    very enchanting and enjoyable time .

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Our Maya and Naya family    

Our Maya and  Aaya (Sitara)

Our Maya and eMaya friends!

 

Our Maya spreads her charm around.

Sachin dances to  the beautiful  rhyme!

 

We had a great time with you all last week   but we were charmed by our Maya most.

She is an all together baby. She give smiles  ,  playful eyes wondering to our sounds , does her rolling effort and plays by herself . She hold herself well  and enjoys our company -but we enjoy her company much. Our hearts do flutter – that is the story of the day.

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Also on this day (Friday 23 September 2011) – Maya joined “Mom & Toddler” Yoga class.      

Pravin Shah                  

           

                 

                         

                                     

                                                       

                                                                                 

                                                                                                                       

                                                       

                         

           

     

   

This is a NEW write-up welcoming our next ‘link’ (progeny, descendant) in the Shah as well as Knights family chain.

All previous write-ups (Being Grandparents –  1 to 26) are mostly  related to our maternal grandchildren (Sitara & Sachin). Sitara is our first grandchild (granddaughter) – followed by Sachin (grandson) with a gap of almost 2 years between them — with Nina (our daughter) and Sunjay being the parents. Sachin is 23 months old (on 2011 June 20) and Sitara is 3 years and 11 months (on 2011 July 5).

From the Indian Gujarati language and social /cultural norm, we grandparents are their   “nana/nani“. In reality, they do call us “nana/nani. They live close by to us and thus provide their “nana/nani” a great opportunity for interface and fun.

The baby referred to here is due in   the month of August,2011 and is lovingly known within the family circle as “cocoa puff”.  From the Indian Gujarati language and social /cultural norm, we grandparents are his/her “dadda/daddi” . We will await to see how s/he will address the paternal grandparents.

The parents (our son Sunir and his wife Shannon) of the new baby are currently living in Toronto – so they are a bit further away geographically in distance to visit and provide a continuous interface. But we will make this possible.

On Monday 27 December 2010 during the Christmas celebration in Deep River , we were informed of the new baby. The announcement was made a bit tangentially   – keeping all of us guessing & then with the offering of sweet cocoa puff cereal, it was supposed to be surmised. The details and state of our happy emotions are described below.

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Announcement   — ” Cocoa Puff ” –   Monday 27 December 2010
 

Most Welcoming News

It was an afternoon (on Monday 27 December 2010) full of fun and joy. Both Sitara and Sachin were surrounded by many gifts from their parents, mama/mami and nana/nani to celebrate the holidays and end of the year 2010 . The revellers were all excited and making merry of the companionship around. Both SunirMama & ShannonMami had arrived from Toronto previous day to celebrate the Christmas holidays with the family.

The bells were ringing in the heavens, the Christmas Tree standing proudly in a corner by the window – all ornamented and twinkling with multiple electrical lights – was bright and soothing .The laughter of the kids enlivened the atmosphere – which was more enhanced by singing by Sunir & Shannon.

Sachin felt sleepy and was thus trundled off to his crib by his dad.

Over all that cacophony , Sunir got up   in a slightly sheepish way and enticed Sitara to go with him to the Christmas tree and then lifted hands to pick up a hanging ornament from the Tree – high above  hidden at the back of a branch .   The  ornament turned out to be a bag full of ” Cocoa Puffs cereal ” and earlier smuggled here  onto the Christmas Tree by Sunir.

Sunir lovingly but sheepishly asked Sitara to take the bag around to each member of the family and distribute the sweet puffs for all to enjoy.   Sitara dutifully and happily went around and distributed one cocoa puff to each of the family members – to savour and enjoy.  

Of course , at that time Sachin was   not there as he had retired to his crib and was having his afternoon nap. Once the distribution of cocoa puffs to each member of the family was over, Sitara then took one for herself and popped it in her mouth with sublime happiness.

Sunir and Shannon both were looking around to see if anything had registered with the family. They enquired   very succinctly but all  were just savouring the tasty ‘cocoa puffs” but wondering the uniqueness of the occasion.
There was a subtle and exciting message (with some humour) cloaked in the distribution of cocoa puffs.  Sunjay was the only one who got the deep meaning and picked up the subtle tell-tale sign about the a new baby coming. All others were still pondering as to what the message was about – when it was announced that Sunjay had got it that Sunir/Shannon were to become parents in the coming months.   Voila! that was it .

Shannon then showed an   ‘ultra-sound’ image of the baby in the tummy – which brought joy and exhilaration all around. Sitara was all mushy and excited .

Sachin missed the moment as he had retired to his crib for the afternoon nap .

Both “grandparents-to-be” hugged each other and were ecstatic and Sitara was just going around trying to digest the news.  

The “cocoa puffs” cereal is an inside joke between Sunir and Shannon for their future progeny – as the coming generation will be a symbol of assimilation of Canadian people of different background.  Of Course the other members of   the family were a tad  removed from this inside joke and thus were a   bit slow to grasp instantly the wonderful message.

The news is now out and about – re: the new addition to the family. Both Shannon & Sunir only got to know about the new baby on 11 December 2010. The baby is only 7 weeks old since conception and  thus it is decided to keep the news within the immediate family members – and no announcement at this time to others – family and friends – until later.

A hint was kind of embedded in the Christmas message on the 2010 Christmas card  by Sunir to parents where he eluded to spending quality time with the “expanding” family and the joyous time.   This word “expanding family” did tweaked dad’s mind but then he let it pass.

The new   addition is expected to be arriving on 13 August 2011 and all are looking forward to the event with bated breath.

This type of excitement with cryptic puzzle style announcement (for the family to decipher the joyous message) is becoming a tradition in the family . First during 2006 Christmas family get together – arrival of Sitara (in August 2007) was   announced by gifting “Grandpa & Grandma” children books to grandparents-to-be   and child rearing book to the mama-to be (Sunir). Then during 2008 Christmas,   the Christmas cards from Sitara to her nana/nani & mama/mami were written so as to let the recipient know that the card was from Sitara + 1 (signed   Love, Sitara +1).

Amazing – ” shock and awe ” news – for the family but the electric current of pleasant excitement flowing measurably through the body.  

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It was thought prudent to announce to the close family and friends about the arrival of the new baby   after the baby has taken sufficient roots and had adequate gestation period. This was done by the parents-to-be and also by all close relatives. Of course , the social media was also used to make announcement .   Our friends within   the Oshwal Community of Toronto got to know of the impending arrival of the new baby  when we ( Sunir/Shannon & grandparents-to-be) attended/participated in the Community ” Chokdi ‘ (card game) competition organized in Toronto on Saturday  2011 April 30.  

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There were welcome activities performed (by the family & friends) prior to his/her (the new baby’s) arrival. These were one (1) “Blessingway” or the Gujarati Indian traditional “ma no khoddo bhurvanu” ceremony (on Sunday 19 June 2011)   and two Baby Showers – one on Sunday 19 June 2011 and the second one on Thursday 23 June 2011.

“Blessingway” & Baby Shower

“Blessingways” are steeped in more solid tradition than baby showers. Both Blessingsway & Baby Shower are interchangeably used in modern society.  

A “blessingway” (sometimes called a mother blessing) is a ceremony to honour a pregnant woman and to assist her in her preparation for childbirth and motherhood.   It gives participants the opportunity to express their love, appreciation and support. Our ancestors believed in the beauty of pregnancy and honoured the birthing woman and welcomed the new unborn baby in beautiful, heart warming ceremonies.   Surrounded by the most important women in her life, the “mother-to-be”  gains a sense of power, confidence, and support that will help her rise to motherhood.
A “blessingway” in the Indian (especially Gujarati) traditional norm is known as “ma no khoddo bhurvanu” – to fill the lap of ” mother-to-be “.   In other words   to cheer her (mother-to-be) heart by rituals and sharing family delight and gifts in this difficult and important time of child bearing.  “Blessingway” ceremonies create a sacred and safe environment where a mother-to-be can explore the challenges and joys that lie before her as she approaches birthing and mothering. Surrounded by the most important women in her life, she gains a sense of power, confidence, and support that will help her rise to motherhood. Birth is a key life passage for women
In North America, a “blessingway” is an ancient Navajo ceremony to celebrate a woman’s transition into motherhood. The Navajo have a saying, “whatever happens here on Earth must first be dreamed”, and that’s exactly what a “blessingway” does. It is a ceremony (or the “dream”) that is a prelude to a major life event (and, as we all know, motherhood is a pretty life-altering event).

A baby shower is the closest event to a “blessingway” that women participate in today. It is a wonderful and practical occasion- a chance to gather family and friends to share in a celebration for the coming of a new baby, and it is an opportunity to provide the expectant mother (or couple) with many of the items necessary to care for a newborn. A baby shower’s primary purpose is focused on the baby that is on the way.

The two (2) Baby Shower celebrations  were organised in Toronto by Shannon’s family and friends – these events were restricted to participation by females as the occasion surly demands.  The “blessingway” at Sunir/Shannon home was participated by the immediate family.

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Grandpa has subsequently composed a poem for the welcome of the new baby  – this was not recited earlier at any of the above functions

POEM By Grandpa (paternal)
 

baby, oh! little baby

your grandpa is mopping

His heart is throbbing

while you are in the womb

baby, oh! little baby

your grandpa is waiting

His heart is yearning

while he awaits your arrival

grandpa

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Saturday 18 June 2011

This day, the grandma travelled to Toronto with aunt Nina (“faiba“) & kids (Sitara & Sachin) from Deep River/Mackey while grandpa came by himself from Cornwall (where he was attending an Engineering Congress).  

Sunjay (the new baby’s “fuva” )  could not come as he had to go to Winnipeg on company business.  
 

After arriving in Toronto and having supper , the kids spent time at the Children’s Playground   across the road from Sunir/Shannon home. Both Shannon & Sunir were there at the Playground with the kids . Kids settled down admirably – taking an attachment to their mama/mami to new heights.   The joy and excitement in their behaviour and interfacing with both mama/mami was delightful. Just before their sleep time, Sitara snuggled up to her mami on a living room sofa – whence her mami read her story books.  A precious moment . At about that time -sort of simultaneously, Sachin was playing with his toys in the living room with his mama   and showing off   his dexterity with the wooden board ABC puzzle   – amazing his mama how he can find right spot for various ABC pieces. Sachin is a tad bit younger than 2 year old. His critical thinking and comprehension/understanding power were very evident.   Sitara’s happiness and compassion were noted when she – once in awhile – comes and hugs her mami and kisses her tummy.

Sunday 19 June 2011

Today was Father’s Day in North America and this combined with two other family events (saluting the “mother-to-be” and the new baby) made the day most enjoyable and joyful.

First in the morning, the Father’s Day was celebrated in the backyard at Sunir/Shannon home   (all decorated and ballooned by the grandma).   Shannon’s sister (Heather) and paternal grandmother (Rae) were also participated. Shannon’s mother (Kathy) and her maternal grandmother (Opal) from Huntsville joined in subsequently ( as Opal was traveling in bus from Huntsville and Kathy had gone to pick her up from the Bus station).   There was big fanfare celebrating the Father’s Day   as we had Sunir (being to be a new Father) and grandpa (his dad) present for the celebration. The kids revelled   and were all engrossed in the event- they had created separate greeting cards for their mama & nana and presented these to them with hugs and kisses. Sachin was in a very happy & playful mood as was Sitara.

Immediately after the Father’s Day celebration, the “blessingway” ceremony (a special Indian traditional  ceremony      ( “ma no khoddo bhurvanu“) – to fill the lap of mother-to-be (literal meaning) was carried out with great solemnity . This ceremony is held to cheer the heart of the mother-to-be in this important time of child bearing . Ceremony – with traditional rituals – is performed during pregnancy to ensure the health and safety of the mother and growing child.   It was fortuitous that this being the Father’s day – it added colour and festivities with both Sunir & Shannon being together .

During the ceremony , the grandma (Jackie) lit a candle and gave her blessings -which was followed by Nina offering a coconut from her Sari to Shannon’s lap -for good luck. After that Nina also tied a sacred “rakhi” ( a bracelet from a colored cotton string) on the Shannon’s right wrist and then on Sunir’s. The ceremony was ended by Jackie sprinkling water in circle ( signifying divine protection / safety ) around Shannon & Sunir – both were sitting closely on two patio chairs -combined/joined/covered  (metaphorically) by a yellow embroidered sari. After the sacred traditional rituals were complete, the mother-in-law (Jackie) adorned Shannon with family heirloom gift for her to enjoy and cherish.

For this day, the Baby Shower was organised by Shannon’s relatives Barb & Nancy -between 2.00 p.m & 4.00 p.m. at Nancy’s residence . It was generous of the hostess to have the kids (Sitara & Sachin) to participate at the Baby Shower.  The invitation was phrased to attend ” An Afternoon Tea in Honour of Shannon Knights”.   After the Baby Shower, report of the event was very warm and pleasing. Both kids had a lovely time too along with all the adults.
 

While the ladies were enjoying the afternoon celebrating the Baby Shower – both father-to-be (Sunir) and granddad were out shopping at Toys-R-Us   – at Yonge & Eglinton . A crib for the upcoming baby was purchased (to be delivered next day on Monday) along with a few small toys for Sitara & Sachin ( to give them variety while in Toronto) . After the purchase , granddad was feted to an afternoon tea (a “High” tea – British Tradition) at a restaurant on Yonge Street by Sunir – as it was a Father’s Day   . What   a day ! Just wonderful.    

Monday 20 June 2011

The crib arrived (bought from Toys-R-Us at Yonge and Eglinton) as per scheduled time just before 1.00 p.m.

(Note:   Subsequently during early July, the crib parts were removed from the big heavy box, taken upstairs to the  room (being prepared as the baby’s nursary) and then  was put together by Sunir by himself ).

Both kids at that time were in the Children’s Park (with their mom & nana) across the road from Sunir/Shannon house.     After lunch, a visit to the Riverdale farm was   planned – so all got ready and went by car to Riverdale farm -visit in the afternoon  . Kids enjoyed looking at and also sort of connecting with the animals. Different type of farm animals and wet lands with ducks and fishes. Sachin abandoned   his stroller and wanted to walk all over -which he did and enjoyed that immensely. He did not seem to get tired out while nana was feeling a bit of strain. After a bit of break & a picnic on the Farm bench – all returned back to home. In the evening, repeat of previous nights ,   Sitara snuggling   up to her mami & she reading Sitara story books.   and Sachin playing with his toys with his mama .    

Tuesday 21 June 2011  

Both the kids & mom went to their mom’s friend’s (Priyanka’s) home and spent time there (with Priyanka’s young child – Sonali). Priyanka is also expecting a second child . During the day, amongst other things

they all went to the High Park zoo and had wonderful time. They spent the night at Priyanka’s.    

On Tuesday afternoon, nana/nani went to Mississauga (to visit Indubhai) and then to Oakville for dinner at Ramnik/Champa home.

Wednesday 21 June 2011

After coming from Priyanka’s home – the kids and mom went to Yorkdale Mall (Dufferin Steet) -nana/nani joined them there.   Spent time at the restaurant called   RainForest Cafe- with artificial rain forest  tapestry -with stuffed animals and live  fish tanks  .     From there after rest at Sunir/Shannon home , in the evening, all (including Shannon/Sunir) went to Shannon’s parents (Kathy/Doug) home for a barbeque dinner.   They were celebrating their cousin Diana’s (from England en route to Australia) visit to Toronto as well as our visit too.   Both kids just fitted in well – Sachin always as usual with his smiles and playfulness and Sitara making conversations with those present.   Sitara also spent time watching a children DVD movie on the DVD machine (which her mom brought with her).

Thursday 22 June 2011

Due to rainy weather , the day was spent mostly at  home  except going to a toy store ( MasterMind ) on Yonge Street – to buy toys for the kids’ upcoming  birthdays (Sachin’s on July 20 & Sitara’s on August 5).  

In the  evening, the ladies went to the second Baby Shower in honour of Shannon organized by her sister at their parents (Kathy/Doug) home  . At this baby Shower – the  kids were  excluded and thus spent time with nana initially and then  joined by Sunir after he returned from his work.  The male baby sitters    had great time with the kids. Their nana fed them in the evening and after their mama came from work he immediately cuddled them . The kids had a swell time playing with both mama & nana.

 

Nana changed   Sachin’s diaper – there was no complain from him or his mother about the tightness and proper fitting   of the diaper. Sachin was also given a bath by his nana  and all the cream applied and got ready for bed (in his case the crib – playpen) .  Sitara was also got ready for her bed   though she did not get a bath but all the necessary creams were applied (she had a rash at a couple of places – on her arms & behind the knees – which needed special cream).

Sachin was put to his sleep by his nana & Sitara was looked after by her mama who read stories to her prior to going to sleep.  

The ladies returned home from the Baby Shower close to mid-night – apparently had a great time and fun. All were glowing with good humour and joy on the face.

Friday 23 June 2011

A return trip to Deep River/Mackey was made this day . It was very rainy day and cloudy. There was a small accident when Nina slipped on concrete while leaving Sunir/Shannon home and injured herself with a sprained left ankle. However, she managed to drive home and the healing of the injury is on its way .

                                   

           

     

       

       

         

         

           

   

 

 

This post is a continuation of  the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents – 2, Being Grandparents – 3, Being Grandparents – 4, Being Grandparents – 5, Being Grandparents -6,Being Grandparents -7, Being Grandparents -8 , Being Grandparents  -9  ,  Being Grandparents -10, Being Grandparents -11, Being Grandparents -12,  Being Grandparents -13, Grandparents -14, Grandparents -15,    Grandparents -16,  Grandparents -17, Grandparents -18,Grandparents -19, Grandparents -20, Grandparents -21, Grandparents -22, Grandparents -23, Grandparents -24   & Grandparents -25)  as the previous  posts were becoming a tad bit busy.  

 

Note: Somehow the write-up from 4th June   to 30 June 2011 is lost .

 

Thursday   30 June 2011  The kids went to Ottawa with their parents to  participate in Canada’s 144th Birthday on the Parliament Hill on Friday 1 July 2011.   However due to heavy crowd (some 300000   people) at the Parliament Hill (as Duke Williams & Duchess   Catherine -from England – were in Canada to participate in the celebration at the Hill  ) – it was decided from practical logistics to avoid going to the Hill and take kids to other places where they can play and enjoy.  

Monday   04 July 2011   –   at home in Deep River as the baby sitter was on vacation during this week   .     were taken outdoors behind the house (a wheel barrow ride). They also met a couple from America with their two dogs playing in the back park. dad came home in  the evening and after dinner all went home  Tuesday    05 July 2011 – went with mom to Petawawa for Sachin’s  last day of music class for the season. nani went with them  

Wednesday 06 July 2011 – spent the day at home in Deep River. Rainy day . dad came home in  the evening and after dinner all went home.      Thursday   07 July 2011 – came over to Deep River at lunch time with their mom – went to beach (Pine Point Beach ) in the evening with parents , nana joined in for about an hour .     The kids slept over at Deep River home (after parents  went home) – this   make it easier in the morning they were to spend Friday  at Deep River home.  

 Friday 08 July 2011 – spent the day mostly indoors as the day was dull with smattering of rain.   In the evening it was thought to spend time at  the beach (Pine Point)  and kids to have picnic there. However,  when arriving at the beach at 6.00 pm , the weather turned ugly with lightening and  dark clouds . So all came back home pronto to avoid getting caught in the rains.      Nani had remained at home.     After kids had dinner , they went home to Mackey with their dad.  

However  , on Saturday the day was bright and it was decided by their parents that they all will   go to the beach  after 6.00pm (when Nina gets off from her work) . So after Sitara    had attended her music class in Petawawa (driven by her dad there -by the way Sachin also went), they went to the beach – and also joined by their nana/nani.   All had good time.   From the beach they went direct to Mackey.  Saturday 16 July 2011  

This day Sachin’s parents had organised his birthday party at Mackey – a bit earlier than his birth date of 20 July 2011- as a weekend is suitable for the families with 2 year old kids to come and celebrate Sachin’s birthday.  The day was gorgeous , bright and warm . There were some 12 kids   (including Sitara and Sachin) . Both nana & nani also participated in the celebration. Each of the kids had opportunity to decorate a cup cake with Elmo motif and each one enjoyed that. Sachin also enjoyed decorating his cup cake.   There were few games for the kids and then all went into the pool . They had a great time splashing in the pool . Sitara was splendid – no fear and jumping   in the water from the side or diving board. Though she had floats on her arms as she has not yet mastered her swimming completely (being a 4 year old).  

A cake was cut and candle was extinguished by Sachin . The cake was baked by the Valumart (in Deep River) bakery on the motif of Elmo. After that gifts were opened . Sachin has had good presents from all those friends’ parents and also from Sitara and his parents. His nana/nani presented him with a red tri-cycle – for him now to move into new phase of life.   His nana had prepared  a special card for him with Elmo as background but with a special poem.    Poem for our 2 year old grandson, Sachin  
                                   (20 July 2011)
Hey Sachin
your mischievous smile always
your innocent twinkle in the eyes
your permeating sweetness so soft
all above soar forever in our hearts
Hey Sachin
your spoken words so meaningful  
your shape sorter activities so focussed
your musical burst here and there
all above forever titillate our hearts
Hey Sachin
your entertaining interplay with Sitara  
your display of love for “nana” and “nani”
your natural embrace of ‘mama” and “mami”
all above forever flutter in our hearts
Hey Sachin
your being 2 years all confident and sure
your mom and dad so proud always
Your sister, Sitara, adores you endless
all above forever is a plus for you
Hey Sachin
you be assured of our love for you
you be assured of our support always
you be assured of our delight   for you ever
Happy Birthday ! Many more to come !  
     nana, nani and the whole family
   

Tuesday 19 July 2011    Today Sachin went to Ottawa with his mom & sister (Sitara) . He has a appointment with a specialist dentist to check why his teeth are discoloured on the top.   They determined that he has enamel hypoplasia.  

Thursday   21 July 2011  This was a scorching day weather-wise. Outside temperature cloaked 37 degrees C. However, that did not stop us to celebrate Sachin’s birthday at nana/nani home in Deep River. We all had a great time – helped by cooling with  electric fans  blowing cool air  and the air-conditioner in the living room was on full blast.     Sitara was fabulous -dotting over her younger brother and with lots of fun innocent laughter and just jumping around with happiness . Though she was ecstatic , She exercised restraint – giving Sachin all the space and letting Sachin blow off birthday  candle ( an Elmo candle that nani bought from the specialty bulk store in Pembroke) -however  helping Sachin by  demonstrating  him how to blow out the birthday cake candle. She made a good imitation blowing off  through her lips and deep breath .   She also understood that this was Sachin’s birthday and so let him open his gifts but helping if such was required.   Sachin enjoyed opening the gifts from parents, Sitara and also from nana/nani . These are additional gifts – besides what he got on previous Saturday during the party at Mackey.   Sitara also got a   gift (a wooden hand carved puzzle) from her nana/nani.  

After opening the various gifts, the kids and adults had fun with  these for some time  and then the time to go home to Mackey arrived and with reluctance kids got ready and then went home a bit later than usual time –   around 10.00 p.m.  Earlier in the week there was a sudden storm which developed on Sunday ( 17 July) evening –   with dark clouds and a dance of lightening and a song of continuous thunders till past midnight. The electric power went off on Sunday evening and not turned on till next day (Monday) evening. This is because lot of transmission lines got tangled up with falling trees . Electric power company’s (Hydro One) crew worked overtime but power was not restored to others for a long time . The storm hit a vast area including Ottawa . Mackey was also out of power.  

Saturday 23 July 2011  This day there   was an annual picnic by the East Indian Group (Deep River/Pembroke area) at the usual Bonnechere Park (on Round lake)   Bonnechere Provincial Park sits at the mouth of the Little Bonnechere River, where it opens into Round Lake.   Nina was working this weekend but the kids came to the picnic with their   dad. Nana/nani also   went separately but joining the kids at the picnic. This year entry fee to the park was $11.00 for Seniors ( per car) and $14.00 for others (per car)   for   a   day use.  

The kids had a bit of a rough ride in the car coming to the picnic as the car air-conditioner has conked out and it was hot outside.   Sitara was all persdpiring when she arrived at the picnic site and Sachin   was a bit redish in the face (thougfh he slept through in the car). The kids however took all that in their small stride well.  It wsa a pleasant day – not too hot ( normally these days it can get preety hot (30 to 35 degrees C) ) – the temperature hovering   around 25 degrees C but cooled down a bit around 5.00 p.m with clouds in the sky.     Kids were potected as they were mostly playing in the shade but when they were wading in the lake water (at the shore), their dad brought out thy new mobile umbrella ( a blue one recently bought from Canadian Tire store in Deep River)  . This unbrella was planted right at the shore so the kids can get shade when needed.  

Kids also partook the food at lunch time and then again at Dinner (after playing in the water for more than couple of hours) . Sachin enjoyed roughing out in   the sand and bit in the water but Sitara was just into it . She gets absorbed in whatever activities she does and along the way she also make friends. This day she played with  Krisha ( a girl of her age -her  father’s name is Judd) and then Sarina (Agi’s  daughter) and a  camper’s baby.   They all went her nana in  boat (an inflatble one )  which was brought   by Sobhan ( an engineer who stays in Petawawa)    . His son Ibrahim  helped to pull the boat arounfd in the lake as nana was  not finding easy    to paddle (as never done before). Agi also walked around with the boat as her daughter Sarina was  in theboat along with Sitara and Krisha.  The picnic was over by 7.30p.m and the kids  went home with their dad and nana/nnai went separately back to Deep River.  

                     

From 26 May to 03 June 2011

This period – We all went for holidays to Mexico – as Sitara said “we are going on v_a_c_a_t_i_o_n” .

The vacation was booked earlier in April.

While the kids and their parents already were thinking of going on holidays during winter – that got delayed for one reason or another – then they decided to go during the week of 26 May to 03 June as this fitted well with Nina”s work schedule . Grandparents were asked previously whether they would want to join in  – so they can enjoy the kids as well as the kids would  also  have an opportunity to spend quality time with their nana/nani.   Besides nana/nani can also have an experience of a  different type (from their normal visiting urban centers and family members and friends) of holidays at a  beach resort .   Also the kids’ nani would get a chance  to refresh her university days  when she was learning world history and was interested at the time in Maya and Aztec culture and history.   So the holidays at Barcelo Maya Beach – near Cancun,  Mexico fitted the bill.

This  area has a  very well developed beach resorts and also places for some Maya ruins to visit.

So the trip started on  Thursday  26 May – when all travelled to Ottawa in the evening and stayed one night at Days Inn near Ottawa airport (on Hunts Road) before embarking the Air Canada flight (AC 441) early Friday morning (27 May 2011) to travel to Toronto.   We then tranferred to Air Canada flight AC1254   in Toronto for Cancun, Mexico.     Flight to Toronto from Ottawa was 1 hour long and from there to Cancun the flight time was about 4 hours.

The group arrived at Cancun at 12.25 – just after noon (local time). Cancun time is one  hour behind Toronto time. The Airline does not provide complimentary food anymore – one needs to buy it (payment by credit card only) . We did not buy any as we had enough snacks with us.

Cancun arrival lobby was small but friendly.  The  Immigration  and Customs were processed quite efficiently with no problem. . On the flight over, each one of us ( as every visitor to Mexico) was required to fill out a ‘tourist’ card that has to be kept safe  and was to be handed back  when  leaving the country.
Once we left the  airport (a bit chaotic  as we were at a destination which we were not quite familiar with and also  we had 2 kids, 2 strollers and 5 suitcasess to tug around – and we did not hire a porter – though there were many who offered this type of service) – however finally  we got  greeted by our Air Canada travel representative (who was standing outside with an Air Canada placard) –  who then led us to our waiting area and  after about few minutes to our  shuttle bus.   It was  well organized and very friendly but nevertheless it can be improved.

The trip to the resort from the Cancun airport is about 1 hour…no problems at all, good driver and nice double laned highway, we were amazed at seeing so much greenery and palm trees after coming from Canada  a few hours earlier! We  arrived at Barcelo resort and checked in at the Maya Beach complex, check in went absolutely fine…check in time is 3 pm and we arrived just about that  so our room was ready. We had reserved / booked our rooms (adjoining for both families) from Canada by phone to Barcelo Maya Beach front desk – a day earlier prior to departing for Barcelo.
Tthis is a huge complex..there are five actual seperate ‘resorts’ but all part of one big system..we stayed at the Maya Beach  (mirror image of each other, each with it’s own lobby, buffet, restaurant, bars, etc..and same price point) the buildings are all 3 stories high which is nice….you don’t get that tall hotel building feeling here. Then there is the Colonial/Tropical buildings, there are the next step up, also very nice and each with their  own character and finally the top end resort, the Palace…which is much fancier…and pricier.

They give you a towel card when you check in and you use this for your beach towels, you are required to hand it back in at the end of your stay.
 

We had Club Premium tickets .
The Premium Club is the new, exclusive concept of services and facilities being implemented in the Barceló Premium hotels, providing customers with a superior and exclusive level of quality. It includes the following services, among others(*):
·                 Preferential area at the reception desk
·                 Exclusive Check-in and Check-out
·                 Early Check-in and Late Check-out
·                 Private caretaker service
·                 Free Internet
·                 Pillow Menu
·                 Superior Amenities Kit
·                 Access to the Club Premium Lounge
·                 Menu of free international drinks (Club Premium Lounge)
·                 Unlimited reservations in all the à la carte restaurants

·                 24-hour, personalised service  

Our rooms (2204 for Nina/Sunjay & Kids and 2205 for nana/nani at Maya Beach Hotel)  had a pool view and a distant beach view.  We had a Club Premiun tickets ( a notch above the Standard package)

Our Room was nice and big, 2 double beds, very clean and we were on the 2nd floor, nice balcony overlooking the beautiful lush  grounds  ..palm trees right in front of us….WOW…

Nina/Sunjay & Kids had a silmilar room but with an added crib for Sachin.
Air conditioning was not super powerful at first, but it worked and there is a large ceiling fan that kept us cool as well…no problems

Restuarants that we patronised while at the Beach resort

Sunday 29 May 2011 –   Italian at 6.00 p.m.

Monday 30 may 2011 – Santa Fe (Mexican Restaurant) at 6.30 pm

Monday 30 may 2011 – Shahs at Spanish Restuarant (Don Quisote) at 7.30 p.m (after a visit to Cozumel island)

Tuesday 31 May 2011 –   Sunjay/Nina  alone – a private time for the couple – at   Kyoto (Japanese Restaurant) at 6.30 pm   – kids were entertained by nana/nani at Buffet Dinner

Wednesday 1 June 2011 – All   at Kyoto (Japanese Restaurant) at 6.30 pm (after viist to Kumul ruins by Shahs)

Thursday   2 June 2011 -All at the Mexican restuarant (El Agave) located at Maya Beach Resort at 6.30 p.m

All food areas were immaculate, foods properly handled from a sanitation perspective. Staff were clearly well trained in food safety and sanitation as well as presentation and service. Very impressive!
Beach

The beach in front of the Maya Beach/Caribe resorts is the nicest one of the complex, it has less rocks close to shore and you can walk out on nice sandy bottom up to your waist only for quite a while…until you hit some corral. We all wore beach shoes when getting inti the sea as the corral can hurt  feet!     Though the beach at Maya Beach/Caribe was better we spent all all time after the first day  at  The Colonial – as  it has Water slides and fountains for   the kids to frolic around.   Also the beach was tolerable. The swimming pools were excellent.

Palm trees dot the beach, so you can find a place to sit in sun or shade. Thousands of loungers available. Beaches are raked in the early morning and pathways swept. Ongoing discreet cleanup of beach, gardens and walkways.

Drinks – we drank different types of alchoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including bottled (Crystal Brand) water . Pina Colada with real rum, Margaritas, taquilla, sake , CORONA beer , etc.   Some Liquor too. We had access tpo private Lounge (as we had Club tickes) – where you can drink any kinds of foreign drinks-with food provided and computers to read about news etc.

The nightly entertainment at the two theaters in this resort. Different shows nightly, so one can choose between the two theaters. Singers and dancers and musicians were very, very good! Shows were very colourful and lively. Excellent . Camera was useful !   We saw Circus, Fanatsia and Michael Jackson as well as Mexican Fiesta.

Trips

On Monday 30 may 2011 – Nana/nani made a day trip to  Cozumel Island ( via  Playa del Carmen) and went in the submarine  diving to see the correls.  Lots of fun.

Also on Wednesday 1 June 2011 – again Nana/nani made a day trip to Kumul ruins ( by Kumul Express a ;luxury bus)

This post is a continuation of  the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents – 2, Being Grandparents – 3, Being Grandparents – 4, Being Grandparents – 5, Being Grandparents -6,Being Grandparents -7, Being Grandparents -8 , Being Grandparents  -9  ,  Being Grandparents -10, Being Grandparents -11, Being Grandparents -12,  Being Grandparents -13, Grandparents -14, Grandparents -15,    Grandparents -16,  Grandparents -17, Grandparents -18,Grandparents -19, Grandparents -20, Grandparents -21, Grandparents -22, Grandparents -23  &   Grandparents -24  )  as the previous  posts were becoming a tad bit busy.    

Thursday 7 April 2011

This day, both nana & nani went to Mackey to play with the kids. Usually they come to Deep River on Thursdays but we reverse it and it was fun to play with the kids on thier home front. Both  the kids were excited to see us there. Both welcomed the grandparents   very warmly. Sitara  in her usual style ran up to her nana and enbraced him and Sachin followed – wanted to be lifted and held by his nana.

They did the same ritual with their nani.

We played together till noon -then their nana went back to Deep River for some as he was expecting their neighbor (Warren) to come to help putting together the Hutch (Bush brand – bought from Staples in Pembroke)   and also the Dell Computer technician from Ottawa to fix the computer – the power unit had konked out.   Well, any thing happens in life, None of the two came – for some reason and their nana spent the afternoon  alone . However he went back to Mackey in the evening and had great fun with the kids.

 Unbeknownst   to her nana – Sitara worked with her nani to make a bead necklace for her nani and then went by herself to prepare abead bracelet for her nana -as her nana’s birthday was next day on Friday 8th April, 2011. He is being 71 now.

Friday 8 April 2011

Sitara was all bubbly about this day -as she came to Deep River with her brother (Sachin) and mom – she was all happy as she knew about celebrating her nana’s birthday. While her nana was busy with the Dell technician – who managed to come this day (instead of yesterday)  – for the repair of the computer .   Sitara was busy with her nani & mom to bake a cake and decorate it.   Sachon  went for hisn usual nap in the afternoon.   After the cake was decorated, they hid it in the basement.   However,as soon as theian left, Sitara took her nana – held his hand and led him to the basement and Voila! secret was revealed about the cake.   Earlier on Thursday, Sitara had worked with ehr mom to prepare a Greeting Card for teh birthday – a unique one – they  cut from paper the palm along with fingerrs   of both Nina & Sitara – joined (with a connecting   piece) them together – decorate these wit stars and sprinkles etc and write best weished for nana’s birthday.

All had great time . Sunjay had come after work and we were also joined by Marcel   (nana’s friend and bridge partner) . After dinner & birthday cake cutting etc – Sitara opened up to Marcel and have him read the story book (few stories). Even Sachin wa sll bubbly during dinner and afterward – smiling and calling out with laughter and fun .

Thursday 14 April 2011

This day the kids came to Deep River to nana/nani home but also Sachin had an apppointment with his medical doctor for vaccination .   He got shots in both the arms . After that he came home and allthad lunch together   – though Sitara remained in playful mood and ate very little. After lunch, Sachin went with his mom to FEN in Mackenzie High School location where he had been examined by a Speech therapist to monitor his speech development. Sachin needs to have at least a vocabulary of 50 words by the time he turns 2 . Currently he has about 30 words vocabulary but he can communicate well with his words and hand signals.   He starts to say two words but requre to separate these and use them as he wants. This will come about by the time he becomes 2 year old. The Speech Therapist said that they will help him to develop more words by various activities.

Tuesday   19 April 2011

Sachin went to Petawawa for his introductory course on music (at the Petawawa Library) – the KinderMusic class  . This is his first. He was taken there by his mom accompanied by his sister Sitara and his nani. His sister has already been taking this course and Sachin had observed that before. In fact, Sachin started singing by himself about 3 weeks ago (last week of March) while sitting in his high chair at home for a meal.  He sang ‘La la la la’ in a nice voice by himself  and enjoying himself. This is his debut in music world – which excited his mom and she hopes that he will learn to appreciate music more while attending ” KinderMusic ” in Petawawa.  

After the music session- all came home to Deep River and had lunch – pizza -all kept ready by their nana.   The kids and mom spent the day at the Deep River house . The kids played with their nana/nani along with their mom. They enjoyed the “see-saw” toy (in light blue colour) bought by their nana/nani from the new store “Hart” recently opened in Pembroke (in West Mall) . Both kids loved the toy -a see-saw game -the tow of them can play together. Sitara is very smart in that she figured out almost immediately that  the see -saw toy can be used to hide  in its body. She hid in the see-saw body and she and her nana had great fun playing “hide and seek”. This was when Sachin had already gone for his afternoon nap .

Sitara also helped her nani to make “Chappatis”. Then she discovered  a plastic cookie cutter from the basement and brought that to her  nani and said to her “I have an idea” . She says that in her nice sweet style so her nani listens. She wanted to use the cookie cutter to make shape and mark on the Chappatis being made in the kitchen.   So she and her nani used the cookie cutter and made the Chappatis together – aproject where she has bondiing with her nani and fun and learning to make the Chappatis.    

These Chappatis were eaten by all at dinner – Sitara distributed the Chappatis – she helped to make -to each one including Sachin who ate the Chappati along with   prepared (cooked) Okra . He loved Okra -so did Sitara. Sachin had been very talkative during dinner and also playful.   He made a game – first  calling his nana ” nana come help” – he wanted his nana to help  to feed  him – of course his nana would stand up from his seat and go to Sachin’s chair and help him eat his rice -but the Sachin will feed himself any way . After that he will request (always politely and smile) his nani -“nani come help” . He repeated alternatively between his nana and nani this game a few times.   Their dad joined in the dinner after he came from his work.  

Both kids ate well – which was   satisfying to their parents and grandparents.   They all went home to Mackey at about 9.00 p.m.

Friday 22 April 2011

This being the Good Fridy and Easter – it was planned that the grandparents will  join the kids and their parents at Mackey and participate in the “egg hunting” game . However, early telephone call from Mackey brought the news that Sitara was sick and up  most of the  night along with her mom. So going to Mackey and “egg hunting” was postponed till the evening .   Both nana/nani arrived at Mackey about 5.30 p.m – just prior to when Sachin got up from his afternoon nap. Sitara welcomed both the grandparents in her usual soft smile and happiness.

When Sachin got up, he was very happy to see the grandparents

All had dinner after an hours play with the kids. Nana had prepared “Spanish” rice and mashed potatoes based on reciipes he had got from Zee News on internet. Nina had prpeared “devilled”eggs for protein and nani had other miscellaneous items.

After dinner, kids had their usual hour of intense  play – running around and ride on their push trucks (Sitara in her red truck and Sachin in his blue truck) .   Nana call that thier “crazy hour”   -like “happy hour” in a bar. Kids get really excited and run around – both competing going round and round.   This evening they wetre in their push trucks –   pushed by nana/nani and their dad –   having to run around with speed and enjoyment. Sachin fell into such ecstasy that he started singing   ” go go go go ” – a very melodiious tune for a baby.     The kids then went to sleep and both nana/nani returned to Deep River.

Sunday 24 Aprol 2011

The kids (along with their parents) came to Deep River home at about lunch time. After lunch, there was an “egg hunt” for the kids – first outdoors – front yard and then at the backyard. The kids really enjoyed this . Sitara was having the time of her life and so was Sachin. They wondered   around all over the yard -with weaved easter basket in hand and plucked eggs (jumping with joy) from various locations (where eggs were spread out before). . It was a pleasant day -good weather and sunshine.  

After the outdoors, the egg hunt went indoors and the kids just revelled in searching for the easter eggs in various rooms .   The kids -with all these easter chocolate eggs- had great discipline- and did not fight or push to eat these. They were allowed each one to eat one   chocolate egg. They seem to understand that eating too much is not good for health.

Sitara had developed a cold on Saturday but was seem to be holding herself well.   Both kids were on medicine for the cold and slight temperature.

The kids were to have sleep over at their nana/nani home this night -as theyw ere spending the whole Monday with them – beiing easter Monday (week) – their babysitter had gone away .   As usual after dinner , kids played well – with toys but also running round and round through Living room and Kitchen.  

They went sleep at about 8.00 p.m – through  good effort  of their parents  – and they slept well thru the night . The parents went home to Mackey.

On Monday 25 April, 2011 – the kids woke up early -all fresh and happy. After breakfast, nana/nani took them outdoor for “bubble making”   . Oh! the kids had ball of a time  . Nana took Sachin to the park in the back of the house -while Sitara and nani went indoors -after the “bubble making”.     Sachin got all tired out after the walk and playing in the park. After coming indoors -and having his milk bottle – he went to sleep and missed his lunch.       After lunch , nana took Sitara to Grouse park -where a lady (Krista -one of Nina’s friends) had organised an “egg hunt” .   Sitara had few eggs found – and the she was joined by her dad (who had come from work   – the work place closed early due to Easter Monday) .

This day Sitara experimented with the lower bathroom door and turned the latch of lock (inside of the bathroom) to “Close” and then came out and shut the door. She then found that the door cannot now open. She felt bad about that and would not come for dinner. Her nani went to look for her and she was sulking in te square tent ((that we have for kids to play in the rec room) . She was crying silently – presumably feeling bad about turning the latch.  Her nani assured her that this is a small thing and door can be opened by using some tools . She opened the door using knife and turning it open. Sitara was fascinated .

Monday 2 May 2011  

This was the Federal election day in Canada . So both the  kids had opportunity to go to the polling station (in Stonecliff) after their dad (at about 5.00 pm after his work) picked them up from the baby-sitter’s place and then went for voting at Stonecliff (near Mackey).   I understand that Sitara in fact joined his dad behind the polling booth partition.

Tuesday 10 May 2011

The previous week the kids could not come and play with their grandparents. Both nana/nani had gone to Toronto on Friday 29 April and stayed there till Sunday 1st May . Then again both nana/nani went to Ottawa om Thursday 5 May until Saturday 7 may – to attend the Engineering Annual  General Meeting (AGM)  and An Award gala for volunteers.   The Mothers Day   was on Sunday 8th May – which was celebrated by Sitara and Sachin along with  their dad to honor their mom.   So the Mothers day at naan/nani place was planned for Tuesday 10 May     Both the kids came over with their mom inthe morning and their nana joined to go with them to Petawawa library ( at Petawawa Civic Centre)  for Sachin’s music class.   Nana looked after Sitara who played in the park at the Civic Centre. The day was bright and the weather was  fabulous. Sitara played on teh swing, on the slides   and with other play things but more important that she made friends with many kids – at this age they do not know each other but become friends for the play time.  It was worth observing thew ay Sitaar won over many kids – playing with them smoothly – on slides and in sand  . Sachin joined later after his music session was ended.   He enjoyed very much being in the parek. He also played on th swing but went to slid eon a larger slide – he conquered climbing and sliding and went back a  few times . He just want to keep playing but then we had to end the fun as their mom wanmtedto go to Pembroke for shopping and also MacDonald meal for the kids.     Both kids well at MacDonalds and had great time shopping. They got sandles and sun glasses -a sgift from nana/nani to celebrate the Mother’s day.

After shopping and meal- all came   back to Deep River- where nani had prepared the meal fo the evening celebration for Mother’s Day.   There was a Cheese cake prepared the preveouis night (nana’s recipe-found from Internet) -which was to be decorated and which was to be kept a surprise for the kids’ mom (Nina) . Sitara helped her nani to decorate the cake – having her mom to retire downstairs in the Recreation room for that time. Sitara also made a card ( a drawing) for her mom . Even Sachin joined in decorating tehcake -all having fun and enjoyment.

After Dinner, Sachin played with wooden Alphabet puzzle -with his nani, mom & then   his nana & dad joining in. All enjoying his playfulness but also his keenness and observations -recognising the letters with colors and matching these with the Board   indentaions – slowly but surely he could match many leters with impressions (indentations) on the board.     Everyone was excited about his brain activity at this age ( 1 year & 10 months)

After that all went to Mackey- very happy . All had a great and excellent day.

Tuesday 17 May 2011

This day kids    did not come to Deep River – as it is a day they normally come and spend time with  their nana/nani. Sitara had a touch of cold and also her mom. So they decided it is better they do not come as the cold can be infectitious and spread to their nani or nana. So Sitara and Sachin went to Petawawa with their mom – not joined by either nana or nani .   Sachin normally have his music session on Tuesdays in Petawawa. However, their mom was informed to stop over for a minute at nana/nani home befroe going back to Mackey (after Sachin’s music session in Petawawa).   Nana/nani had   a surprise gift waiting for kids to give to their dad   in appreciation of his fatherly love. There was also a beutiful  card – that they will sign with crosses and some dabble in picture drawing.   As they were not to spend time in deep River, nina took the gift ( a shirt nana/nani bought from Sears when they were in Ottawa last week ) and the card with her home – whetre she will have the kids tehn givet to theor dad as a surprise at an appropriate time in the evening.

 

From 26 May to 03 June 2011

This period – We all went for holidays to Mexico – as Sitara said “we are going on vacation” .

The vacation was booked earlier in April.  

While the kids and their parents already were thinking of going on holidays during winter – that got delayed for one reason or another – then they decided to go during the week of 26 May to 03 June as this fitted well with Nina’s work schedule . Grandparents were asked previously whether they would want to join in  – so they can enjoy the kids as well as the kids would  also  have an opportunity to spend quality time with their nana/nani.   Besides nana/nani can also have a different type of holidays  at a  beach resort .   Also the kids’ nani would get a chance  to refresh her university days  when she was learning world history and was interested at the time in Maya and Aztec culture and history.   So the holidays at Barcelo Maya Beach – near Cancun,  Mexico fitted the bill.

This  area has a  very well developed beach resorts and also places for some Maya ruins to visit.

So the trip started on Thursday 26 May – when all travelled to Ottawa in the evening and stayed one night at Days Inn near Ottawa airport (on Hunts Road) . This hotel provides shuttle service (starting at 4.30 am in the morning) to and from the Airport as well as facility for car parking for the duration when one is away from the country. The shuttle service is included in room charge for the night but one has to pay for parking (charge  per day when parking is used).   They also provided early breakfast (continental) – startng very early in the morning. The troup arrived at the Days Inn about 9.00 p.m (after stopping over in Renfrew Township  – for eating at MacDonald in  Walmart – this is kids favourite place for stopping over whenever their parents go to Ottawa.

So everyone   was up and ready early on Friday morning (around 5.00 am) – had something to eat and then Days Inn shuttle service drove the group to Ottawa Airport at 5.15 am. The Air Canada flight (Ottawa to Toronto) – AC 441 was to   depart at 7.00 am – the boarding passes for this flight and connecting flight to Cancun were obtained/printed at home (by use of internet facility provided by Air Canada)  – thus needing less time at the Airport.   We were surprised when we came to the Air Canada  checking counter to check in our luggage -by being asked by the Checking Officer whether we were Gujaratis -as she was herself a Gujarati.  

We boarded the Air Canada plane after clearing the Security . The kids just enjoyed going  through all these new experiences -even Sachin – who is not even 2 years old enjoyed –  all facets of this phase of early morning hustle and bustle.   We then tranferred to Air Canada flight AC1254   in Toronto for Cancun, Mexico.     Flight to Toronto from Ottawa was 1 hour long and from there to Cancun the flight time was about 4 hours.

See the separate Post on   titled ” Vacation in Mexico (2011) ”   for details of our stay in Mexico.

 

 

 

Pravin Shah    

 

This post is a continuation of  the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents – 2, Being Grandparents – 3, Being Grandparents – 4, Being Grandparents – 5, Being Grandparents -6,Being Grandparents -7, Being Grandparents -8 , Being Grandparents  -9  ,  Being Grandparents -10, Being Grandparents -11, Being Grandparents -12,  Being Grandparents -13, Grandparents -14, Grandparents -15,    Grandparents -16,  Grandparents -17, Grandparents -18,Grandparents -19, Grandparents -20, Grandparents -21, Grandparents -22   & Grandparents -23  )  as the previous  posts were becoming a tad bit busy.    

This post is a start of the New Year 2010.

Thursday 6  January 2011

Since the Holidays ( end of last year) – the kids are a bit “under-the -weather” – cold and cough . So they have not visited the Grandparents – so as not to spread the virus – but never-the-less both nana & nani both are going through the same – first nani and then nana – hence the kids are “kind of” not seen. It is a bit of a loss not to see them but for health reason -it is prudent to remain separated till the health get better.

Tuesday 18 January, 2011

This day – now that both kids have   somewhat recovered from ‘under-the weather” health and also their nani  is also back to good health – nani decided   to spend Tuesday at Mackay with both kids and their mom ( who has a day off – as part of ” shift” duty at work) . The kids had a ball of a time with their nani – apparently missing her (and of course their nana) for so many days.   Sitara and her nani spent time outdoors to make snowman and Sachin ( when not having afternoon nap) would cling to his nani and just play around.  

Thursday 20 January 2011  

This day (being an off-day for Nina) – both nana and nani decided to spend time in Mackey with kids. It was also “18 month”  birthday celebration for Sachin (having born on 20 July 2009).

Both kids played with their grandparents – Sitara with various games and with “playdough” with her nana and Sachin just being active and playful. We celebrated his birthday ( his mom & Sitara made chocolate muffins and decorated  these with icing etc for Birthday candles ) .    Their dad had gone to Ottawa for an office meeting but joined all for the dinner & Sachin’s “18 month” birthday celebration.

This day both kids got registered for swimming classes at Deep River Mackenzie Pool. The registration was done at Town Hall by their nana/nani .     Sitara for Salmandar Class (for 3 year olds) and Sachin for Duck Programme – for babies.

They got a new cousin today. Their mom’s cousin Sunay’s wife (Priyal) in London,UK gave birth to a baby girl this morning about 6.30 am  local time .   The baby has  not  a name as yet. She will   be the kid’s newest cousin (of course one removed) .

Sitara gave us   a very pleasant surprise.   Something that brought tears in our eyes. She is so cute and pleasing. She recited the famous and common prayer for Shree Jalaram – in Indian tongue. When she learnt this? is very much surprise to her nana/nani.   Our respect and love for her mom also went many folds more – it was always high but recitation just floored us.

Wow!

Note: Sachin had come to Deep River yesterday (with his mom & Sitara) for regular doctor’s consultation.

Thursday  27 January 2011

Kids and Nina came over to Deep River to spend the day with Grandparents .   Their nana had   was away in the afternoon for  lunch & bridge game at the Church  (the main one  on Deep River Road).  

All had good dinner (their dad also joining in)   – though nina had dinner much later as she had gone for physical activity (in the evening ) at the Legion hall and came back at about 8.00 p.m.

The kids were to spend a night ( a sleep over) at nana/nani home -as they were not going to their baby-sitter on Friday -as she (& her family ) were going away for the week-end.  

On Friday 28 Jaunuary 2011 , the kids played with both nana/nani in the morning . Sachin as usual went for his nap in the afternoon . Their nana again went to play his usual Friday afternoon bridge duplicate   game.

Sitara helped her nani  to bake muffins (cupcakes) in the afternoon  .

Sachin has progressed in building his vocabularfy and says “mine”   and “more pleae”.   He understands to say words when prompted – if we ask him   ” say   ball” – he will repeat ‘ball’ . So he understands to respond to “say” .

Sitara  obviously surprises us with things she knows. She can say (recite) our Shree Jalaram prayer ( in our language) and knows that it is a prayer to Shree Jalaram – she shows so much respect for Shree Jalaram – also rings the prayer bell – which we have at the ”  Shree Jalaram oil painting”  hung in the Recreation room .  

She makes my heart to flutter – when she recites the prayer with joy and pride – on her own. She learnt thisi from her mom in a couple of days try. Atta girl!

On Sunday 30 January 2011, the kids had their first swimming lesson of   the year . Sachin – his first since he is born (he is a baby)  -” duck  ” program at the Mackenzie pool in Deep River . Sitara had her “salmander” class.   Nana/nani also went to the pool to watch the kids  taking lessons . Sachin was accompanied by his dad in the pool . Sitara could go alone but thsi day ( she having a bit of a temperature and also a new male instructor) ) was a bit reluctant to go into the pool – then was joined by her dad -which made (enticed) her go into to the pool  .  

However, both kids had temperature on Monday 31 January 2011 and their dad   als0.   They stayed home . The temperature and “under-the-weather”   state for all three  is still continuing –  this being Wednesday 2 February 2011. Nina has also got the same on Tuesday (1 February) – though she came to work on Wednesday   – in a stormy day . This day the whole eastern USA and Canada was under severe winter   weather with about 30 cm of snow falling.   She  managed to organise a replacement pharmacist starting at 5.00 p.m -so managed to go homea  bit early.  

 

Sunday 6 February 2011  

The kids came to deep River. F irst Sitara with her dad – they had gone for skiing and then Nina with Sachin – who was taken for his swimming session.

They stayed in Deep River (sleep-over) at their nana/nani home – till Wednesday 9 February 2011.      

Sachin had fever – on going to ER , it was diagnosed that ear infection was causing the fever and vomitting. He ate very little on Tuesdasy but on Wednesday the anti-biotics seems to have worked and he was getting better – though his food intake was low.

Sitara as usual very playful and played with toys on her own – made pretend tea and dinner for her nana.   She wanted to have her nana tell her stories or read books .She is very diplomatic- she knows most of her children story books by heart and can recognise these. She had her nana say stories based on ‘imagination” – nana created a pretend twin sister for her named “Sahara” . Many stories were spun using this character . She can spell her name and can identify many alphabets and letters. She can count to double digit (though below 15) . Her dad has taught her to use fingers for counting .

Friday 11 February 2011

The kids nana baby-sat the kids this day at Mackey between 10.30 a.m & 1.00 pm while their mom & nani had gone to Deep River Community Church to attend a  funeral of alady who died from car accident (Patricia).   After that the afternoon was spent there – though Sachin had gone to take a nap.   There is also a renovation going on at Mackey house -addition of a sauna & insulating the garage.

Sitara played with ” slinky ” – hopping down over  the stairs . She really enjoyed the toy and the hopping down of the “slinky”

That night her nana got sick with ‘diarrhea’   – not sure where he got it from. But then Sitara too had similar attack on Saturday – which culminated in Sitara also throwing up on Sunday evening and this carried on the whole Monday 14 February 2011 (VaLENTINE’S DAY) .     Well in short the Valentine’s day dinner planned on Sunday at Deep River was almost became a non-event as all were busy with “Sitara’s illness and her nana’s too.

Also on Sunday , at the swimming class at Mackenzie Pool in Deep River – Sachin was in the pool but had to get out in about 10 minutes as someone threw up in the pool. The pool was then closed. The kids then came home in Deep River with their parents.

Both kids saw the recreation room and computer room at Deep River home -which  were getting emptied up by their nana/nani . The wall of these rooms will be replaced with 1/2 inch gyproc wall and all old insulation will be removed –  all areas cleaned off and fungus etc – and then new R12 insulation will be installed.   Jeff and Dennis are the contractors.     Oh yes, while , inspecting, Siatar found the old Fred Flinston doll that her mom Nina had given to her dad long time back – her nana was an avid watcher of Fred Flinston situation comedy at that time.       Her nani cleaned the Fred Fintstone doll along with that  of Barney – so when they came on Sunday, these were ready for Sitara – but unfortunately she could not quite enjoy these as she was not feeling well.

Wednesday 16 February 2011  

Jeff and Denise came at 9.00 am to start work on the walls of the rooms downstairs. They started with the Computer room and after that they will tackle the main rec. room .      Yesterday about 6.30 pm the kids phoned from Mackey – they were enjoying their new sauna unit – which was just installed by Jeff & Denise – as contractors.     The kids are seeing lot of changes in the  homes (at Mackey and also in Deep River) and  now are getting fresher updated quality of homes.

Sitara remained under the weather for another couple of days   – mostly throwing up and not eating much . Sachin was okay this time though  during last week he also was under the weather.

Sunday 20 February 2011

By this time , Sitara had recovered  and both kids were brought to Mackienzie Pool by their parents for swimming lessons prior to thyem all going to Ottawa for a week’s vacation. They eem to be enjoying their outing with parents -according to an electronic message reveived from their dad.

Wednesday 23 February 2011  

This is an milestone of a day for the kids. Sitara is some 37 inch tall and weighs 27 pounds.   Sachin is measured 32 inch tall and weighs 21 pounds -as per their dad’s electronic mail from Ottawa.

Both kids got a legacy gift  – life insurance policies- as of this day .   This, hopefully, will be useful when they are ready for their higher studies – post high school.

Thursday 24 February 2011

Sunir and Shannon arrived at Deep River – drove from Toronto to visit and spend time with the family . However, on their first day here, they could not interface with the kids as they were still in Ottawa -with their parents on vacation.   Sunir and Shannon had time to relax   – they needed that not only the tiredness  from the long drive but also the previous three days they had spent in Chicago, US for holidays and  had spent thise days  visiting museums and other places   including variety of eateries .   After their rest, we (Sunir and parents while Shannon was resting) played  Chopat- an Indian game  

Chopat (or Chaupat) is a Cross  and Circle game  played in Saurastra , part of Gujarat, India  . It is similar in some ways to Pachisi, Parcheesi and Ludo.

A chopat “board” is traditionally an embroidered cloth in the shape of a cross. Each arm of the cross is divided into three columns and each column is divided into eight squares.
The “dice” are seven cowry shells.   The “men” or pieces are usually made of wood. Each player has four men.

It was fun. We had bought the Chopat game when visiting India -when Sunir was 9 years old   – and somehow he had learnt (found out) about this  game and wanted it badly. Guess he ws curious. So we had traversed many stores/shops in Mumbai (Bombay) – and finally found one (after many hours of “hunting”) in a shop in the area called Bhuleswar.  

Finally we played the game.

Friday 25 February 2011

Both Sitara and Sachin arrived in Deep River with their parents   – a bit delayed at about 7.30 p.m and joined in the dinner . Both kids remembered  their Mama & Mami – not forgotten them though not seeing then for a  few months .   This time they also played much with their Mama & mami – their Mama reading story books to Sitara and playing with Sachin.   Their ShnnonMami played with each of the kids . Sitara liked to talk/converse with her Mami. Sitara was also aware that a new baby was developing in her Mami’s tommy.   She was very mindful of that.

The kids went home to Mackey with their parents  after that – a bit early as they were getting tired from their drive from Ottawa and also they needed rest as Sitara had a full day on Saturday .

On  Saturday 26 February, 2011 – kids went to Petawawa – for Sitara’s music class in the morning and then came to Deep River for lunch  with their Mama & Mami as well as with nana/nani.   During lunch, Sachin established a good communication relation with his Mama/Mami ( few words but smiles and grunts) . Sitara got fed by her mama – she would not leave his side at all.   Sachin then went for his usual afternoon   nap and Sitara played in the living room ( doing sketch painting ) -then all (Sitara and parents) went to ski (Martin Hill ) hill for participating in the memorial to Pat Harvey ski run. Sunir/Shannonmami joined them subsequently. nana/nani stayed home -as Sachin was still sleeping.   So both Mama/Mami saw Sitara learning skiing from her dad – and also go downhill with her dad and come up using the chair lift.  

When they all came home, all had dinner together and fun time. Kids really bonded well with their Mama/Mami nd this day they went home at mid-night  .

They saw their Mama/Mami on Sunday at  lunch time as their Mama/mami stopped over in Mackey – on their journey back to Toronto .   Kids were having lunch – so their Mama/Mami helped to feed them.

Finally their nana/nani saw ther kids in the evening when they came to Deep River for their swimming session at Mackenzie Pool  .After the swimming classes , they went to Mackey straight .

Thursday 3 March 2011

This day the kids came to Deep River in the morning (to spend the day with nana/nani) with their mom . Their nana had prepared the lunch and dinner for  the family – his recipes for ‘Chick pea & canned mandarin oranges” and also his recipe for “Boiler onion & potato curry”. All eaten with either samosas (prepared by nani) or with rice ( steamed by nana) or with “Middle Eastern” thin Pita bread (bought in Ottawa Z) a day before.

Nani had a craft session with Sitara (decorating of colored Egg shape sheet) with glue and bunnies and stars. After that she played with the Computer ( PBS kids program) with nana and teh went out with her mom for aviisit to friend’s house. All that while Sachin was   placed in his crib for an afternoon nap. Apparently, hew did not want to have a nap but play with nana/nani . However, he did not complain about taht but unbeknowest to all (nana/nani & his mom) he had thrown his blanket (in the crib) on the ground, pulled his socks off and then his pants off before falling asleep.   He can now mamnge to remove cloths.

Sitara had her nana say stories about the little girl  “Sahara” –   an imaginary twin sister that  her nana has conjured up for stories past couple of weeks.   She also had a couple of children books read. She remains always busy either books, craft or playing with toys.     Sachin also likes to play with the toys and always doing something which is constructive. Both kids are like that though Sachin is not in stories or books as yet.

During dinner, Sitara – a great conversationalist as she is – was telling her nana that she is these days doing

1) Music class

2) swimming class

3) skiing and then also gymastics.   She really enjoys going for skiing with her dad .

After dinner the kids parents went to see the comedy play “Leading ladies” being put on by the Deep River Drama Club at Childs Auditorium. They ere gone from 6.45 pm till 9.45pm – kids were with their nana/nani – and spent good time with them.   Eventually at about 9.30pm Sachin went sleep in his crib but  Sitara played with her nana and nani – did some more craft and had more stories told.

They all went home to Mackey at about mid-night – their parent spending some quality time with kids’ nana/nani – ” shooting the breeze” .

Sunday 6 March 2011

The kids spent the Saturday nite at their nana/nani home in Deep River as their parents went to ‘ Camper Restaurant in Pembroke on Saturday nite ‘ and were to be out past mid-nite .

Both kids were well behaved and played with all avaialbale toys and Sitara had books read and stories told.   When reading the book on Cinderella   – she had a logical question -as to why a glass shoe remained with Cinderella – when all other items – such as the chariot turned back to a pumpkin -turned to original while  the glass shoe did not. She is observant at this age of 3 1/2 years and with logical question. Her nana replied that ” the fairy Godmother left it with Cinderella so she could be found by the Grand Duke -for prince to marry her.

This Sunday, Sitara didniotw ant to go for skiing. Ad states befire , sge enjoys skiing – so this refusal came as a surprise . However, she spent time with   her nana outdoors in the snow – helped to make tunnel, made imprints of the snow shovel handle on the snow bank in a pattern – “she said this is how she would want to decorate her house” -removed icicles from her parents’ car and deposited all that in the tunnel.
After dinner, both Sachin and Sitara went for their swimming sessions at Mackenzie Pool.  

 Sunday 13 March 2011

The kids had their last swimmimg classes for the season. They went to the Mackenzie Pool with their parents in the evening. Sachin’s class starts at 6.05 p.m and Sitara’s at 7.05 p.m.   They are not visiting Grandparents home in Deep River (at this time) as their nani is sick with flu & sinuses . Its better to  keep the kids  away for their safety.     Their nana joined them at the pool as he is okay healthwise.

Sachin graduated in his “Duck course” and got his certificate .Also Sitara graduated in her ‘Salmander course” and got her certificate.     Now for the next level in spring- I guess.

Sunday 20 March 2011

The whole previous week  nana/nani kept away from the kids due to flu except to see them for a few minutes here and there. On Sunday, Sitara was going for skiing – this is the last day for the season. Her mom calleda nd informed her nana/nani – so we decided to go to the ski hill to watch her. Both kids were taken to the ski hill by their parents – skiing to be had between 2.00 p.m and & 4.00 p.m – that was time when skiing was permitted at the Mount Martin Ski Hill in deep River. This is a picturesque spot and well developed for small town . A boon to all the downhill enthusiasts in the area. Sitara’s dad is a great ski enthusiast and this helps to train Sitara. Sitara loves to go out with her dad and skiing.    In one season (at age 3 1/2 yrs) can ski the whole hill by herself (with no hole by her dad)  – of course guided lovingly by her dad – who ski backward   in front of Sitara – to give her a confidence boost.   Sitara went downhill at least 3 times in the afternoon and she was all relaxed and happy while climbing the hill along with her dad – using the lift chair .     They all had picnic at the ski site -an open woodfire was lit by the organisers   – marshmallows and garham crackers – hot dogs and Jersey chocolets etc were available.   Sachin enjos being outdoors to. He   is noy going skiing as yet (being 1  1/2 years old) but enjoys walking and running and climbing small hills  . He liked the picnic too and ate the crackers and marshmallows allong with the hot dog pieces.

Scahin observes everything – especially he is a great cheerleader for his sister – and gives smiles and chuckles to her and obviously is very happy when seeing her come up the hill in a lift chair with their dad.   All in all it was successful afternoon – all bright and sunny and both nana/nani enjoyed to be outdoors too.

At the end before winding up for the afternoon – Sitara ambled along with her nana for a while – and then she found some icy condition & water puddles on the ground. She loved it. She picked up a piece of ice – she likes to pick ice pieces from the ground and outdoors and also from cars (hanging on the cars) etc. This day she was ecstatic as she found water puddle – where she kept jumping in – like            ” Peppa Pig  family ” jumping in the mud  .   Sachin then joined his sister   in the puddle and both kids had lots of fun together.  

Monday 28 March 2011

Kids came to their nana/nani home (with their dad) after spending the day at the baby-sitter’s place. Nina was working and had planned to go to Ottawa (for an office conference) after work (late at night) . Thus the kids were to spend the night (sleep over) at with their nani/nani.   This is after a long time – as due to flu season the playing (spending time)  with the kids was curtailed – for the safety of all. Sachin had multiple ear infections during the season  and his nani had a prolonged flu.

Even though face masks are donned by both nana/nani  when the kids visit  – it is not quite safe.

Monday, after dinner the kids had good time with their nana  & nani – playing many different things and Sitara having her nana say stories (about the fictitious girl Sahara – her fictitious twin sister) or alos read stories from various books which are readily available at nana/nani home.   Sacxhin wa sa s usual happy kid – going around – climbing stairs ( each stair at their nana/nani home have only 7 steps and not too high). The kids also played with their dad – they like to to do sliding over the extended feet ( by their dad & also by their nana) .   Thier dad got them ready for bed before going to Mackey at about 9.00 pm.     Thire mother had phoned to enquire ( while she came at around to  Pembroke en route to Ottawa) .

The kids slept well – all were concerned that they might wake up at night   – Sachin because he is not eating well these days due possible to his ear infection (though it is getting better) andmay get up he becomes hungry .     But both kids slept well through the night though woke up early – Sachin about 6.30 am in the morning and Sitara soon after.

The day went well. Sitara went to Deep River library in the morning  with her nana ( Library has kids story time on Tuesday mornings) while Sachin stayed behind at home with his nani. well he had a nice bath and got ready. After the library, Sitara wanted spend time in the car – driving around . So her nana took her to the river drive and to the lighthouse (at marina) . Afternoon she spent most time watching TV cartoons and children program. Sachin had his usual nap in the afternoon.

Sitara’s nana went outduring the afternoon to Canadian Tire store and bought a nice set of binoculars – in army colors ( small & patite – good for 3 1/2 year old kid to learn to use it) . This is   an adult binoculars but easy to hold and not bulky.

The kids were a bit fussy when having meals – though they  had adequate breakfast and lunch (aftera  lot of prodding and cajoling) but dinner was rather  skimpy . Kids have their own mind and that is how  it is. Sitara was in a play mood  and she did not want to eat the special    rice (brown) but she wanted just plain rice with her “daal” (yogurt curry) . So then plain rice were cooked for her (with her help) and she had some of that but not much.

When going to home – Sitara made her wish known that she wanted to spend another night sleep over at her nana/nani home – and she pleaded and then also made fuss but as they were to go to the baby-sitter place next   day – it was decided that it was prudent that both kids are together at Mackey -when they can be got ready  together . Their mom was to come home too that day but late as she had another meeting to attend in Pembroke (while returning back from Ottawa) .

 Thursday 31 March 2011

The kids came and spent the day in Deep River . They came with thier mom ( she was having an off day from work) . First they went to usual kids program in the library and then Sachin had an appointment with the medical doctor .   So they came to Nana/nani home at about 12.30 pm (noon) and all had lunch together . After lunch, after playing  for a short period – the kids (mostly Sitara being 3 1/2 years old – knows what she wants)   wanted to draw an outline of their mom’s whole body on a   big drawing paper – which their nani had already brought out from the storage.   So Sitara and nani together had Nina spread herself down on the rolled out paper – in the living room.   Then they drew the  outline   of the  head , legs and torso – Nina also helping . After the outline was completed , Nina sat down and all three (  Sitara, nani & Nina)  started drawing various design patterns within the outlined figure. Sitara’s  hand  was printed at couple of places and so were  her feet. The hand outline and feet outline were filled with minute flowers   -all patterned using the fresh (new) washable markers. Sachin also joined in and had a great time trying to draw patterns.

Later Sachin was ready for his afterrnoon nap -and so he was freshened up and given his usual milk bottle and then then taken his crib for his nap.

In the evening their dad came from work – all had dinner together. After that their dad   had to go back to work (these days there is lot of pressure at work – due to Japanese nuclear fiasco from earthquake & tsunami) . Both kids were a bit disappointed and Sitara gave few hugs and kisses to her dad .

Sitara and Sachin played with their nana/nani – Sachin was at his best – enjoying every minute of time and happy. Sitara as usual had her share of stories and book reading before all went back to Mackey  with their mom  .

 

Note:   This comimg Saturday (2 April 2011) Sitara starts her GYM class in Petawawa.

 

Pravin Shah