Category Archives: Miscellaneous Musings!

Shree Jalaram’s story- Jay Jalaram Bapa Temple at Virpur

Reference:   https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.458831947463908.121266.410764152270688&type=3

Jay Jalaram Bapa Temple at Virpur

India is a land of saints since ages.

Many saints have served the poor and miserable people of India through out their life. Such saints are really rare on this earth.

One of such saint was Jalarambapa of Gujarat. Saint Jalaram was born in the year 1799 at Virpur, a small village near Rajkot, one of the important cities of Gujarat.

There is a famous temple of Jalarambapa at Virpur in Gujarat. Many Indians have a deep faith in Jalarambapa. They always visit this temple whenever they get an opportunity. Saint Jalaram was not a god but was a human being, just like you and me.

In spite of it, he is worshipped today amongst all Indians more than god. The worshippers of Saint Jalaram are available in all the parts of the world. devotee of Lord Ram.

His father was doing a business at Virpur near Rajkot in Gujarat. In spite of his many efforts, young Jalaram never took any interest in the worldly activities and was drawing towards Lord Ram day by day.

His guru gave him one advice to feed hungry people all the time. Jalaram took this advice and started giving food to the poor, sick and needy people. His parents made him to marry Virbai, a local village girl. However, his religious activities continued along with his wife.

Jalaram was moving from village to village to collect the donation to feed hungry people. People started to know and recognize about the work of Jalaram and they started giving donations to him for his noble cause of feeding hungry people.

The span of activities increased and Jalaram was soon worshipped as “Rotibaba”. He started giving food to all the people coming to his house since the year 1827. Both Jalaram and his wife continued serving like this for many years.

Then came the greatest famine of the century in the year 1856. Jalaram and Virbai worked very hard and fed hungry people all through this famine.

This service was really invaluable as it was performed without any physical expectations of any kind of returns.

Finally, Jalarambapa died on 23 rd February 1881 while doing prayers of Lord Ram at Virpur only where he was born. This is called samadhi in Hindu religion.

The temple of Saint Jalaram was established at Virpur, Rajkot after the samadhi of bapa to pay the tribute to the noble acts of Saint Jalaram in the year 1885. There is no statue of Jalarambapa in this temple but his only real photograph available is worshipped here.

Most of the Indians   visit this place and Virpur has become a place of pilgrimage since then. The old practice of serving food, tea, and snacks whoever come to this temple is continued even today after around 121 years.

This service was possible due to unlimited donations from Indians all over the world and has never stopped even for a single day during the long span of 121 years. Even today, all the persons visiting this temple take prasad in form of lunch, dinner or snacks.

The whole job of cooking, serving, cleaning etc. is done by the youngsters of Virpur village without taking any type of compensation.

Have you seen such a holy and noble place where food is served to all the people with love and affection without any charges for last 121 years?

I am sure your answer would be NO. The most important aspect is that the temple trust have stopped taking donations since the year 2001 as there are sufficient funds already available to continue this service in the future.

Special lunch and dinner are served on the birthday of Saint and some special occasions.

You can reach Virpur by road from any major city of Gujarat. Virpur is around 130 miles from Ahmedabad by national highway 8B. The roads are excellent and it hardly takes around 3 hours to drive.

There is a Dharmashala available, managed by the temple trust, to stay during the night at very nominal rates of Rs. 20 (50cents) per day for two people.

There is a small market where you can buy all types of souvenirs of Saint Jalaram.

The temple is still having the bag and the stick that was carried by Saint Jalaram while he was going for collecting donations.

There is also a beautiful statue of lord Ram and Devi Sita in the temple.

The temple remains open all through the day and closes at 9pm.

The morning and evening Artis are really worth attending.

Try to remain present during these Artis and you will have a divine pleasure.

Though food is provided free, there are some small hotels that can provide varieties of food on nominal payment.

Around 10000 pilgrims visit this holy temple everyday and pay their homage to the great Saint Jalaram.

If you also want to share this unique experience, make sure to visit this temple at least for a day in Gujarat.

This will increase your faith in powers of human beings and what can be achieved by the sincere efforts of an ordinary human being.

Grandparents – 2013 – 2nd Quarter

The second quarter started with a bang.   The spring has “sprung” though in this part of the country

(Deep River/Mackey ) the snow is   still on the ground – the edges thinning out and quite a bit of melting.

The whole week both Sitara and Sachin were excited about their nana’s uocoming birthday .   Everytime they come over to Deep River house or when they met nana they would recite “happy birthday” nana.   I guess the excitement was built up by their mom – who was also wanted to celebrate her dad’s upcoming birthday. However, at the particular day, nana wousd not be here in Deep River but gone to Toronto   – where Maya is also waiting to celebrate her Bapuji’s birthday.

So the kids celebrated their nana’s birthday on Tuesday 2 April 2013 – a good 6 days before the actual day. What a day. Sachin was at deeep River home since early afternoon (about 11.00 a.m) having come over with his mom.

He was just dancing with his smile and eyes and uttering nana, happy birthday – every so often and wanted to play with his nana – a kind of a gift to nana. Sitara came over after her KG and swimming – picked up her mom .

She just was coddling up to her nana and hugged him and also saying ” happy birthday”.

The   kitchen was full of activity – preparation of dinner   and decorating the birthday cake.   Sitara has helped nani to bake the cake the previous day (note: both the kids had spent the whole day Monday at nana/nani home – being an Easter Monday – their baby sitter was away).   Both Sitara and Sachin rolled up their sleeves along with their nani and theree of them decorated the birthday cake.   What enthusiasm and joy displayed and constuctive participation in the   ” merry making “by both the kids.

After dinner, when the dining table was being set for the birthday celebration , nana’s angel Sitara came over to her nana, held his hand and tugged him very politely asking him to go with her downstairs to the Recreation Room – saying she wants to play with nana. So both went downstairs – there she   played with different toys together with her nana. First she got hold of the ” cash register ‘ – the old one her nana/nani had bought for her mom & mama when theyw ere growing up. Sitara acted as   a sales girl and having nana to be a customer . She sold her nana few pillows, a ball – the green sqooshy type , a see-saw etc. For each item bought , she would demand & get the money (the toy money of course), till the cash register and occasionally give the change. After that she piacked out from the shelf and brought the toy gramophone ( again the old vintage one – bought earlier again for her mom or mama ) and played a record (London Bridge is falling down) , This then followed with the   ” Carpenter’s bench ” – atoy one – a bit shaky one that did not deter her – she got nana to help her hammering down all the “pins” – and repeated the action few times .

Oh! she was just an angel – spent quality time with nana to amuse him to celebrate his birthday . What a child- nan is just beyond him with a happiness and glow in the heart . This happiness ended when a call came from upstairs that the table is   ready.

Well, table was getting ready and Sachin came over to help his nana to set up the decoratiohn on the table   – nana brpught out the ” happy birthday ”   penannt out from the hutch in the dining room and also an electric birthday flasher light . Sachin had a great time with the electric birthday flasher – he switching it on and off a gew times . He was just so happy and husgged his nnan a few times and also uttering ” nana, Happy Birthday”.

Earlier the each of the kids had prepared – with the assistance of their nani –   a birthday card for their nana – which was presented to their nana after the candlelights on the cake were extinguished (both kids helping to do that with big air blow) and cake was devoured happily.

What a night and what a day!   nana is just ecstatic with spening quality time with Sitara and Sachin – each one separately and together too.

Sunday 7 April to Monday 15 April 2013

This week both nana/nani travelled to Toronto to be with Maya – for whom we are Bapuji (paternal   Grandpa ) and Ba ( paternal Grandma) .   Sunday her dad (Sunir) had gone to USA for business and thus both ba/Bapuji were thete in Toronto to give Maya and her mom (Shannon) company and support where needed.

So from Monday 8 April to Friday 12 April) Ba and Bapuji took Maya to her DayCare in the morning at about 8.30 a.m ( by Car- our 2010 Toyota Corolla) and brought her home in the evening at about 5.15 p.m – except on Thursday when we brought her home at 2.30 p.m as she was to be taken out for an outing to the Rain Forest Restaurant (in the Yorkdale Mall) . Her dad has returned from USA earlyB Thursday morning and wanted to spend time with Maya – at a special outing.

The whole week Maya played and was very loving to her Ba and Bapuji. She has a fondness for her Ba who looks after her at night when she wakes up ( sometimes) and at mornings. She also snuggled up to her Bapuji a few times   – showing affection – which touched her Bapuji’s heart. Her bapuji read books to her – one specially became a favourite between two of them.   This children book – Hippopotamus and its Belly Button – gave a a fun word to play with – “bee Bo” .

Maya also participated in her Bapuji’s birthday on Monday 8 April 2013   – helping to blow of a single candle on a Loblaw muffin – her Bapuji’s favourite miffin . Even Maya and her mom likes this Loblaw muffin. One of the best – very delicious with bluberries or other berries , apple and cinnamon etc.   Maya also celebrated her Bapujis Birthday communicating and singing Happy Birthday song on SKYPE with her cousins (Sitara and Sachin) in Mackey. Maya can clearly take Sachin ‘s name but has difficulty pronouncing Sitara’s name. She is trying.

On Tuesday 9 April – Maya , her mom and Ba and Bapuji were invited for dinner at her Grandma/Grandpa home. Maya   had a great time – all coddled her and played with her. She was very entertaining at dinner table.
Maya also went on Saturday (13 April) to a birthday party of a twins ( her parents’ freind’s babies) – about 1 year old.

After that she accompanied her parents to an IKEA store   – where she was fortunate to get two baby chairs – for her desk at home.

On Sunday 14 April – Maya was coddled by her grandpa and grandma (Maternal)   as well as by her Aunt Heather and uncle Ryan   – as all had gathered at her parents home to celebrate her Grandma’s birthday.

Her Ba and Bapuji said bye to Maya on Monday (15 April)   – she gone to her DayCare (in a stroller – her usual mode of transport -to and from DayCare) taken by her mom . Her Ba and Bapuji therafter drove back to Toronto.

What a week     – great time with Maya and the family there.

The week ending Sunday 21 April 2013

This week the kids at Mackey were thrilled to spend some tijme with their nana/nani – after missing them when they   were in Toronto. On Saturday . the kids, their parents and nana/nani went to “pasta dinner” at the Legion Hall in Deep River – organised by the Swim Club of Deep River & area.   All had great time . Both Sitara and Sachin enjoyed the outing.

In the meantime , Maya had accompanied her parents to Montreal   – a couple of days visit.

In an e-mail (along with   photos) dated 2013 April 20   . Maya’s mom (Shannon) wrote :

Salut!

We are having a lovely time in Montreal, enjoying the parks, cuisine, etc. Today it has been hailing but we are still enjoying ourselves… it also happens to be the “journee du croissant” so we are spending the time inside various cafes sampling the croissants! Yesterday Maya and I went to the Biodome (the first two photos) while Sunir did his work event. The last photo shows maya’s face (and hands – and sweatshirt) after her first taste of nutella this morning 🙂

We hope you are all well. Lots of love and bisous,

Shannon, Sunir and Maya

Again on an e-mail   (along with one photo) dated 2013 April 23 . Shannon wrote:

We are back from Montreal after a great trip. This photo was taken at the big market in Montreal. The very talented balloon maker made this balloon monkey, complete with banana!

Saturday 11 May 2013

After Montreal sojournh, Maya has settled back to routine in Toronto – going to the DayCare and genearlly enjoying the warm days with parents – going outdoors and going to park – located across the road from the house.  

The kids, Sitara and Sachin are   doing the same enjoying outdoors and going out to bush and beach.

On Monday Sachin came over to nana/nani home (after his swimming session at Mackenzie Community Pool in Deep River – where he went with his dad – while Sitara was dropped at nana/nani home after her KG class ).

After dinner (the kids and their dad   – Nina was at work till 9.00 pm) , Sitara went to Mackey with her dad and Sachin stayed behind for a sleep over – he was to spend the day with nana/nani as Nina (his mom) was to go to North Bay for the day for repair/maintenance of her car.   Tuesday morning usually Sachin has his KinderMusic get together in Petawawa   but this tuesady – it was it was not on – for some reason. So his nana/nani took him to playground across from Giant Tiger in Deep River . There he had slides and general workout. Also he had good swing session -his nana pushing the swing . During the swinging – they made uo a song to go with the general sway and movement of the swing. The song goes like below – with words interchanged as song proceed during the swinging

Sachin ….. Munchin

Manchin …..   Crackers

Crackers ….. Crunching

Crunching …… Crackers

Sachin …….. Crunching

Munchin ……   Sachin
and it goes on and on – with different tune & word play.

Nina came back from North Bay early enough to pick Sitara from school and to take her for her swimming session.

Her nani also went to the pool as it was Sitara’s last session for the season – nana stayed at home to look after sachin – who was having his afternoon nap.

In the evening Kannan and Laxmi joined in for dinner (though they were a bit late -came at about 7.30 pm) as they were driving back from Toronto – so they missed kids’ nana -who had a prior Bridge Card Playing engagement.

This day – both Sitara & Sachin along with nani and Nina celebrated a Mothers day   – a bit   early as Nina & family were to go to Jamaica for a holiday and would not be here at the Mothers Day time.

Thursday 9 May 2013

Both Sitara and Sachin went with their parents to Ottawa   – and from there they flew for their parents’ annual holiday to a resort in Jamaica on Friday 10 May at 8.00 in the morning . On Thursday the parents took the kids to the National Museum and other places in Ottawa.

The kids arrived back at Pearson Airport, Toronto   (Canada) in the evening of Monday (Victoria Day ) – May 20 and will travel/fly   to Ottawa and spend the night there. Then on Tuesday 21 May – will travel/drive to Montreal for few days.

While at the resort in Jamaica , Sitara made the following observation and quipped to her mom ( according to May 19   entry on her Mom’s Facebook)

Sitara: Mommy what are those 3 girls doing flipping over like that?
Me: cooking themselves in the sun
Sitara: Will the animals come to eat them when they are cooked?
hehe

Saturday 18 May 2013

Maya spent the long weekend   (Victoria Day -May 20) at a farm with her parents .

Sitara and Sachin arrived back to Mackey late on Friday night (24 May 2013) with their parents.

What a relief to   nana/nani who were missing them -as the kids had gone with their parents to Jamaica and the for a few days to Montreal.

On Saturday 25 May , the usual routine started   and the family took Sachin to Petawawa for his music session and after that they come over to Deep River to participate in the Summer carnival at The Church on   Deep River and also going over to Canadian Tire parking lot where there was an inflated (air) jumping castle -where kids had fun jumping.

After that they came over to nana/nani home – when nana took them out for cycle rides. They are still young and   thus Sitara rides her bicycle with training wheels on and Sachin rides “kiddie” 3-wheel bike. When their parents went away for grocery shopping – the kids spent time in the backyard – playimg with water hose and also helping nani collecting acorns etc from the lawn – to clean up the yard. Inside after having muffins etc – Sitara went downstairs (in the Recreation room) and got busy making a painting – a beautiful painting of a girl ( a sort of a portrait with matching different colours) with two pets on leash – with sun shining and few clouds in the sky. That she put in an envelop made by herself – collecting by herself confidently the materials for making a large envelop ( papers , cello-tape & scissior etc) . She really is an artist – for near 6 year old girl.

Wednesday 29 May 2013

An amazing story has developed on this day . When I booted my computer I suddenly noted on the dashboard photo of Sitara ( with swimming goggles etc – resting on the side of the swimming pool during her last session of swimming before going to Jamaica) that there were three (3) hands gripping the side of the pool instead of usual two (2) that we humans have. She seems   to have sprouted a third hand mysteriously . These is no one around her in the water.

Any hoo – I immediately – on this day-   sent the photo (by e-mail) to family members   with the following text

Hi all

I am attaching a photo of Sitara taken on my camera (by Nina) at her last swimming session before they went to Jamaica.

Please look and let me know what you spot unusual.
 

regards
I also called Sitara’s nani to come down and look at the photo on the computer.   She immediately observed the third hand – that is after prompting to look for an unusual   feature.
Interestingly , a return response – in no time – from Shannon drew everyone’s attention to the amazing appearance of third hand – so far not yet figured out how that happened. As whose hand that is?   – someone probably was near Sitara   but underwater and stopping at the wall for rest with one hand on the side.
Here is Shannons’ response – same day and prompt .
”   Ha ha, she seems to have acquired a third hand 😉   “
Thursday 30 May 2012
This day Nina has a day off from work and she spends time with Sachin at home in Mackey ( as he does not yet go to junior KG – will start during coming September)   . So they do various activities together – including calling nana/nani on phone.
Nina posted a photo of Sachin on her Facebook – showing Sachin having his lunch – picnicking outdoor on the table on the deck outside the kitchen. Nina labelled it   ”   Lunch with my baby   “ .
His nana responded on the Facebook   ”     His smile is always very infectious. “
To that Nina responded   ”   We are having a wonderful day. Did you get the phone message he left you? It ended with a kiss  
Which was immediately responded by his nana saying   ”   It was so profound – the telephone message.Cherished. “
Saturday   1 June 2013
This is Maya’s dad’s birthday. We got a photo of her from her mom labelled
”   The birthday boy (plus Maya and Elmo!) “
Further , we got a prompt from Maya’s Grandma’s (maternal) Facebook entry. Below is the whole text.
“Phone conversation with 21-month-old.
Me: Hi Maya! This is Grandma.
Maya: Ma-Ma.
Me: I’m giving you a big kiss. [smooching sound]
Maya: More.
Me: [smooching sound]
Maya: All done.”
Maya is amazing and displays a good vocablury for 21 month old girl but also understands the context and maintains a good flow of conversation.   Wow.
Wednesday 12 June 2013
This is the day when Maya’s mom had completed one of her post-graduate exams in Ottawa and this round of exams are now completed   and thus there will be more time to relax in summer and play with Maya.   Due to this exam – Maya’s mom had to travel to Ottawa for a couple of days – when Maya was in Toronto being looked after by her dad.
The previous week was a week   for exam preparation by her mom. Maya (at age of 2 years) seem to acknowledge -in her own way – that exam preparation is   a   stressful time compounded by having ababy at home. But Maya was very accommodating and kept herself busy at DayCare and looked after by her dad without a whimper . She seems to convey (in her own baby way) to her mom all is okay and she should not worry   except to prepare for her exam. What a perception!
Thursday 13 June 2013
Its really quite exciting – that both Sitara & sachin had gone with their parents to a resort in Jamaica on holidays   on Friday 10 May 2013 – from where they had sent a postcard ( of course written by their mom – it seems on May 20) just after they arrived there but received by us only on last Thursday 13 June 2013 – much after they had returned back home.
This is what the postcard said:
I/we hope our plants are safe and sound ( from Sachin) . We had lots of fun here. The food is great, the people are sooo friendly and the beaches are beautiful. We went on a sailboat, swam in the pools, went in the hot tub and water slides and made lots pf sandcastles. Made some friends too. Yeh mom! Love it here. Saw a circus act and magic show and lots of   fire breathers. We will definitely come back to Jamaica & the carribean again & again. All Healthy :):):)

We saw some crabs and lots of fish too.   Fed the fishes :):):)
Thursday 20 June 2013
This is the day kids (Sitara & Sachin) came over to Deep River to nana/nani place (with their mom) to celebrate the Fathers Day. A belated event . Initially they wanted to celebrate the Fathers Day on Tuesday 18 June ( real Fathers day was on Sunday 16 June)   – their normal day for visiting nana/nani is on Tuesdays but this Tuesday both kids fell sick – throwing up and thus they stayed at Mackey to recuperate.
They had brought a beautiful painting for nana & a   well decorated card for their dad   – to express their love.
Maya also had sent a fancy card from Toronto to her Bapuji (Grandfather) – expressing her love.
Friday 2013 June 21 to Sunday June 23
This weekend was special for Maya – she was to spend (sleep over) these days at her grandparents (maternal) in Toronto – which in a way is gift to her parents -who spent the weekend in Boston (USA) . A date holiday for them. A bit of relax time away from Toronto as a couple.
Note: Wednesday 2013 June   26
Today was a celebratory day at Maya’s home in Toronto. Her mom just recieved a message from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada that she   has passed her examination and now she is FRCPC (a Fellow of the Royal College ). Here is the text an e-mail recieved from her Mom on Wednesday 2013 June 26 –
Good news!!!! I passed the exams! See proof below! I am very happy and extremely relieved. Thank you for all your love and support during this challenging year.       Congratulations!
Maya (along with her dad) had remained steadfast in her behaviour in support of her mom during the time when her mom was preparing for this examination.
Next weekend ( 2013 June 28 to June 30) Maya is being entertained in the company of neighborhood kids – three   families & their kids will go along with Maya & her parents to Peterborough , Ontario – to have fun and frolic together. What a nice neighborhood camaraderie and building social bridges.
Tuesday 2013 June 25
Today is the last KinderMusic session for Sachin before he joins next step in his short life – joining the Junior KG in Septermber 2013.
This is what   his mom posted subsequently on her Facebook entry :
” Sachin’s last Kundermusik class. He’s going miss you Niconette! “
Sachin went to St. Mary’s School (in Deep River) on Tuesday (2013 Jun 25) with his mom to reconnoitter the junior KG class there. Sitara at present is enrolled in her Senior KG at Mackenzie Community School complex and in a few days that will be over. She is now graduated to go to next level – joining the regular school – Grade 1.
It was being considered that both kids would go to St. Mary’s School (instead of Mackenzie Community Complex – a public school system) . St Mary’s School is under Catholic denomination but the education and school curriculum seems to be better than the Public School System. Howeever , it was finally decided to keep them in the Public School system. Sitara seems to like and feel at ease where she is going now.
Thursday 2013 June 27
Today, parents of Sitara’s & some of her classmates (a total of 9 graduates ) organised a party to celebrate the graduation of these little tykes from their   Senior KG and going to formal schooling – starting with Grade 1 . The aprty was organised at a friend’s (tracy’s)   home on Faraday Avenue, Deep River. The whole cabboodle was made up professionally – issue of graduation certificates (signed by the school administration) to each kid – festooned with really well made   cap (hat) -white made with using ” disposable bowl ” and rim made from card box piece (well cut square) and lined wih bristol paper (or some other white paper) .   At the end after each one recieving his/her authorised /signed   KG graduation certificate- they all (all 9 of them) stood in line -facing the audience (their parents & grandparents) and threw (all together) the hats in the air – like the University graduates do.   What a fun and satisfying event.

Book Reading -Miscellaneous Books Read (2013)

I have followed to continue reading books in 2013 starting from the New year day .

As it is my wish to keep to lighter books and refrain from reading serious books on philosophy, history, political and social issues – though at times I will read these . Mostly I like mystery books.

The year started with re-reading the book by Ken Allen titled ” Deadly Endplay” – this is a mystery book about a murder but based on a member of a Duplicate Bridge Club in Pemberton ( a fictional town – in north Ontario)> The book has many valuable bridge plays with techniques – which can be useful to upgrade one’s bridge playing.

After that I completed reading of the following books .

1) A book titled ‘ Three Cups of tea ‘ by Greg Mortenson (an American) and co-authored by David Oliver Relin.   This is a book based on real life – mountaineering by Greg in high Himalayas – based in Pakistan and subsequently failing to complete to climb K2 range of Himalayas   – Greg devoted his time to help build schools specially for girls of the North West Frontier states of Baltistan and Waziristan. Sunsequently he also went over to Afghanisatn to do the same – all recently when large scale  terrorist (Taliban)  war is going on and Americans are really very unpopular there . Very interesting.

2) Agatha Christie book titled ” Passenger to Frankfurt + – a non H. Poirot book.

Thursday  7 February 2013

Finished reading a twin (combined) book

titled   ” Crying Swallow ” by Erle Stanley Gardener – A Parry Mason story and also

” Nemesis ” by Agatha Christie –   a Jane Marple story.

After that I have started reading books from Kindle   – a Kindle recently bought (second hand).

By mid – March 2013 completed reading following books (from Kindle books)

– A book titled ” Turn of Mind ” by Alice LaPlante- a story/novel about a person ( Dr.Jennifer White) suffering from Alzeimer desease .

– A book titled ” And She Was ” – a novel of suspense – by Alison Gaylin

– A book title   ” State of Wonder ” by Ann Patchett . This book was speed read (means not all words and paras were completely read) but gist and different angles in the book were followed   and understood.

– A book titled ” A Man in Full” by Tom Wolfe .   This book was also speed read (means not all words and paras were completely read) but gist and different angles in the book were followed   and understood.

Sunday 14 April 2013

Apart from re-reading a couple of Agatha Christie books   – When in Toronto (during the week from Sunday 7 April to Monday 15 April 2013) , I completed one new mystery book . The book is titled   ” B is for Burglar ” by Sue Grafton . This series of books by Sue Grafton are a mystery books   with a woman (Kinsey Milhorn) as a PR (private investigator).

Shannon is a keen reader of her books and I got two books from her to read. Currently , I am on second book titled ”   ” C   is for Corpse “.

Thursday 25 April   2013

2 books – I re-read a Agatha Christie   book titled ” The Mystery of the Blue Train ” and completed a new one titled       ” The labours of Hercules ”   – a compendium of 12 different cases – Poirot solved prior to his retirement from his active   sleuthing.

Recently I have bought some 13 books (all Agatha Christie books) from Deep River library at their Book Sale.

Saturday 27 April 2013

Completed reading Agatha Christie book titled – Easy To Kill (or Murder is Easy) – NOT a H. Poirot book   .

Saturday 11 May 2013

Completed reading Agatha Christie book titled – Poirot Investigates

Monday 13 May 2013

Completed reading two (2) Agatha Christie books

a) An Overdose of Death (formerly titled The Patriotic Murders)

b) Peril at End House

Saturday 18 May 2013

Completed reading Agatha Christie book titled – The Secrets of Chimneys

Saturday 25 May 2013

Completed reading Agatha Christie book titled – The Tuesday Club Members (featuring Jane Marple)

Monday 27 May 2013

Completed   reading Agatha Christie book titled – The Seven Dials Mystery

Sunday 16 June 2013

This being the Father’s Day – I completed to-day a large book titled   ” The Princess and the Captain ” authored by Anne-Laure Bondoux .   Note: This book was left by Nina ( my daughter)   last week for me. It is good for me to complete it by Father’s Day.
It is a very interesting book – An Epic Tale full of Drama, Magic and Excitement , where challenges have to be overcome, friendships cemented and Heart Broke.   God book for young persons but I enjoyed it thoroughly .

Thanks Nina.

Besides the above book, I also have completed reading the following Agatha Christie books between   Monday 27 May 2013 and now Sunday 16 June 2013.
– Murder in Retrospect

– Ordeal by innocence   ( no H. Poirot book)

– Sleeping Murder ( Jane Marple book)

– Spider’s Web (no H. Poirot book)

Since Sunday 16 June 2013 & 2 July 2013 I have completed reading the following five (5) Agatha Christie books.

–   Third Girl

–   Evil under Sun

–   The Moving Finger

– Partners in Crime

– The Hollow.

So Now I have completed reading some 50 Agatha Christie books   . I have some more to complete.

Wednesday 2013 July 31

Since Tuesday 2013 July 2   to Wednesday 2013 July 31 ,   I have completed reading the following six (6) Agatha Christie books.

– The Big Four

– Cat Among the Pigeons

– A Holiday for Murder

– At Bertram’s Hotel

– N or M

– The last book is ” Unfinished Portrait ” written by Agatha Christie under the name of Mary Westmacott.

Monday 2013 August 19

Recently I have acquired about 6 books by Sue Grafton – with her Private Investigator – Kinsey Millhone. Wonderful books for a mystery buff.

I have just completed reading “J” for Judgment – enjoyed thoroughly.

Monday 2013 August 26

While clearing the house garage of books and some personal “work-related” files – I came across many novels and mistery books .   One of these – titled   “The Mummy Case” by Elizabeth Peters seemed a good book to read. So I took it inside home and started reading. Well I could not put is down – humourous and very educational – re: Egypt archeological studies – realted to Pyramids and the intrigues that is woven around that – with murders and thefts of antiquaties . I completed reading that book as of now.
I am now back to   Sue Grafton’s books and have started   on the book titled “K” for Killer.

Sunday   2013 September 01

I just completed reading the Sue Grafton book – titled ( ” K ” for Killer ).

Monday   2013 September 30

Since my last book reading, I have completed reading the following books

1) Three Agatha Christie   books. These are

— Peril at End House

— Death In The Air

— Sad Cypruss

Also I completed reading one   Sue Grafton book – titled ( ” O ” for Outlaw ).

Monday 2 December 2013

Since my last posting on   Monday   2013 September 30 , I have completed reading the following Agatha Christie books .

– Remembered Death   (original British Title – Sparkiling Cyanide)

– The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd

– Dead Man’s Mirror

– Endless Night

– Murder On The Links

– A Murder is Announced

– Poirot’s Early Cases

– Murder In The Calais Coach ( Original British Title – Murder On The Orient Express)

_ The Regatta Mystery

– Mrs. McGinty’s Dead

Now I am finishing reading all the Agatha Books that I have collected   – only a couple remaining to complete. I will then be reading Sue Grafton books – the next in line is Titled (“N ” for Noose ).

Tuesday 31 December 2013

Well this is the end of the year   2013 and from Monday 2 December till now I have completed reading the following books.

– A book titled   ” Anatomy of A Crossword ” by the author Nero Blanc . It is a mystery with crosswords included.

–   A Sue Grafton book – titled “N ” for Noose .

Currently I am   reading two (2) books   simultaneously   – both are by Agatha Christie. These will be last ones from her writing unless i repeat read again some of her books.

simultaneously

Grandparents – 2013 – 1st Quarter

This year a new post is established to cover some happenings as these happen in our grandchildren’s lives – all three of them – Sitara, Sachin & Maya.

After spending a great family time together during Christmas 2012 – the kids -each one is busy in each individual activities – of course both Sitara & Sachin would have some activities or free time together .

This winter has been a bit tough especially for maya as she suffers from flu along with her parents. It seems flu is much prevalent in larger cities – though over here in Deep River area there is some effect. Sitara is also down for a few days with flu.

Grandparents do help out during such time and Maya’s Grandma (Kathy) in Toronto was there during Maya’s parents’ illness and looked after Maya well.

Here are few words from her (quoted from her e-mail of 1 February 2013)

”  The last three nights I picked up Maya from daycare as Shannon has been very sick (actually all three of them have been sick a lot this winter so far). I was very happy to be of use. However, I will say that getting a toddler in and out of snowsuit and mitts, and pushing a stroller through the snow, is quite an exhausting experience. I don’t know how I used to do it all the time with my own kids! ”

This week Sachin got admitted to his junior  KG class – starting in September 2013.

The boy is now  growing up and taking first step in school system.

Sunday 3 February 2013

This winter  both Sitara & Sachin continued their downhill sking at Mt. Martin ski Hill in Deep River. They take coaching lessons but also are steered by their dad – who is a superb skiier.

Saturday 9 February 2013

Since last couple of days there was a big snowfall – result of a storm hitting Eastern USA and  Canada  – this snowfall was greatly welcome by those who enjoy skiing.

Some news items on storm:

1) A massive winter storm hit Eastern Canada on Saturday, knocking out power to thousands of residents and prompting dozens of flight cancellations.

2) What was supposed to be a “snow day” for one Toronto-area mom-to-be became a harried journey to the hospital after she went into early labour during one of the worst storms to hit the area in years.        

Sitara and Sachin went for their downhill skiing today – with their dad ( their mom as at work) .   It was a beautiful day – sunny but due to storm – there was good snow covered Mt Martin ski hill. However , Sachin got tired half way around ( he had been sick for last few days – having got temperature   – though today  he   was back to normal but a bit understrenghth . His nana picked him up from the ski hill and he was nourished at nana/nani home till his dad & Sitara finished thir skiing and came over to pick him up – to go to a birthday party in Deep River.

While Sitara & Sachin were out on the ski hill today – Maya in Toronto went to her grandma (Kathy) home for a  sleepover . Maya has been spending time with her dad since last Thursday (as her mom have gone to  Hamilton – for her studies for a few days – pursuing her post graduate study for pediatrics). She is expected back by Monday  (11 February 2013).

On Friday  (8 February 2013) – Toronto was blitzed with heavy snow . This made it very difficult for a stroller to be used – as Maya goes to daycare. Her dad had to carry her by his hands – manoeuvring  in the big thick pile of snow.   Here is what his dad commented jovially on his Facebook entry

“Wisely I left the stroller at home and carried Maya in my arms to daycare this morning. two feet of snow later, I now pack a flask of brandy, a pair of snowshoes, a tauntaun, and a light saber and head off to get her back.”

The above created a bit of chit chat on his Facebook site.

Thursday 14 February,2013

This being the Valentine Day, it was planned to celebrate it at Deep River with earlier  Sachin coming over with his mom -during the day. Sitara joined in fater het KG was over and then her swimming session was over at Mackenzie Pool.   Sunjay joined in after his work .

Maya being in Toronto could not come as it is far away but she was present (along with her parents) in our hearts.  

Note: Talking with her mom on phone   – Maya had her first (not counting the one that happened when she was a baby  infant) Valentine Day in the company of her own age friends at the Day care. She enjoyed that immensely.

Nani had baked two cakes – heart shape – chocolate flavoured . One decorated with two hearts on the top – the second cake was for a back-up or for quantity if more is consumed.

The kids had great time with nana/nani – though Sitara was only after her schooling activities.

The following is the e-mail nana/bapuji sent to Shannon, Sunir, Nina & Sunjay on 16 Feb 2013.

The family around Deep River  celebrated Valentine day on Feb 14th – when Sitara & Sachin came over (with their parents) to spend the day with us.
Maya was in our thoughts.   Of course both you & Sunir were there too.      

I am attaching a photo of the cake that Jackie had prepared . She asked me to send that you.    

The cake is a symbol of our three (3) grandkids – who are enlivening our lives.      

The cake itself is of heart shape – with two hearts decorated on top.        

The  two decorated hearts are for the eldest and the youngest (Sitara & Maya) and the cake (the middle) is for the middle one (Sachin) .
or
The two decorated ones are for our two pretty delicate granddaughters (Sitara and Maya) and the cake (the base) is for our handsome grandson (Sachin) .  

Your pick but all three are in our bosoms always.

regards & love

Friday 15 February 2013

Both nana/nani  spent the day at the Jacques Cartier Park, Gatineau in the company of Sitara, Sachin and their parents -accompanied by their friends Troy, his wife and young kid (Laken). It was a wonderful outing – though warmer and a bit raining – spoiling the ice sculptures at the Park.

This is what Nina posted on her Facebook

” Despite the warm weather yesterday shutting down the ice slides at Snowflake Kingdom the tubing slides were open. The kids kept running up to us exclaiming “This is the best day Ever!” It’s all about the kids and making sure they have awesome, fun experiences….I think we accomplished that! Mommy and Daddy had a pretty awesome time with the kids, our friends and Nani and Nana too! ”

The whole day was   therapeutic for the winter blues.

Saturday   16 February 2013

This day the kids ( Sitara & Sachin )   went for skiing at Mt. Martin Hill in Deep River . Both nana/nani were invited to go and observer them skiing and also to have fun with them. The shiing start at 2.00 p.m -so bith nana/nani went there. The intention was to   spend an hour or less there ( as there was guy -Sean-   who was clearing snow from nana’s home roof )  but they ended up remaining at the ski hill till 4.00 p.m – when the skiing at the Hill  was over for the afternoon.

Sitara’s painting – she did at home this morning – was placed on the notice board (of Ski Lodge) for display and for others to enjoy. This painting is titled ” Shark Girl at Mt. Martin ” by Sitara.

This is what came on Nina’s facebook entry. Nina scrawled on her Facebook page the following

“It’s days like these when we realize what a blessing it is to live here. The grandparents can just “pop” by for a couple of hours to watch the kids (and us!) at the hill or join us at gymnastics or the pool at the drop of the hat. Sitara and Sachin don’t know it yet…but they are so lucky to be growing up with their Nana and Nani by their side. 😀 Love you Mom and Dad!!!”

We   just had  a   great time.

This is how nana responded tp Nina’s Facebook entry.

“We just had a great time – your mom  enjoyed it. Kids were good. Painting done by Sitara was on the Notice Board. The sky was bright and all people skiing were in the element. That is Deep River.”

Saturday   2 March 2013

It was a Pat Harvey Fun day at Mt. Martin Ski Club in Deep River. Both Sitara & Sachin along with their parents particiipated. Nana/nani went there also –   a bit later – so as not to distract Sachin from going on  the ski hill.

There was Maple Syrup toffee and other fun  things for the kids.

Sunday  3 March 2013

This day Sitara was invited to a birthday party in Deep River – so her mom drove her from Mackey (along with Sachin) .   Then Sachin & his mom decided to go to Tim  Horton for lunch   .   Their dad remained at Mackey to supervise the repair to the Septic tank pipe.   Sachin thought it was  nice  to invite his nana/nani for coffee at Tim Horton and thus he influenced his mom to do so. Both nana/nani were glad to go and join them at Tim Horton in Deep River.   Sachin welcomed his nani & nana with a handshake and a hug  – he positioned himself at the door for such formality. All had a good time and after that all came to nana/nani home . Nina picked up Sitara from her  party and their dad joined them afterwards.   All four then got ready and went to the Mt. Martin ski hill for skiing.

Tuesday 5 March 2013

This day Maya’s Ba and Bapuji travel to Toronto to be with her (Maya) and her parents for a few days.   Maya’s dad is going to USA for few days so her Ba/Bapuji will keep her company when he is away.

The drive to Toronto was pleasant and arrived at Sunir’s place about 530 p.m – he was out to day care to pick Maya and thus when she arrives at home – her Ba & Bapuji were waiting to welcome her.

She was a bit surprised – she did recognise Ba but took a while to be comfortable with her Bapuji.

Shannon arrived a bit later from her work and all had dinner together .   After dinner Maya played with her Ba and Bapuji with her toys and became familiar as before . Then she went to sleep ..

Wednesday  6 March 2013 to Thursday 14 March 2013

Maya’s dad went to USA on business on Thursday 7 March 2013 and returned on Tuesday (12 March 2013)  night ( infact Wednesday early morning -about 2.00 am -13 March 2013).

Maya was coddled and pampered by her Ba & bapuji – taking her to her day care center in the morning   during the weekdays and picking her in the evening – at about 5.15   p.m .   Due to heavy snow on the Toronto roads -which are not cleared similar to how the roads are cleared in Deep River – walking (or taking a stroller) on the side walk and part of road edges was difficult – so her dad had installed her car seat into the Toyota Corolla car – which became a mode for ferrying  Maya  to and from the day care.

This gave her mom a respite from her going and coming from work – also a relaxed time to study for her post-doctoral studies.

On Saturday 9 March 2013 – when her mom was at home – Maya was entertained by taking her to the Toronto Zoo – courtesy of her Heather Auntie who had three (3) tickets for Zoo  and offered these -which were given for Maya’s enjoyment. So all three Ba, Bapuji and Maya’s mom accompanied Maya to the zoo in the morning and had a great time and returned back home for lunch  and Maya’s nap.

It was planned earlier before Maya’s dad gone to USA on business – to take  Maya to Ontario Science Museum   – after he returns. So Maya went to the Science Museum in the afternoon (after her dad had rest and a bit of sleep as he retruned back late at night) .   So all ( Maya, her Ba & Bapuji and her dad) trudled along in the 2010 Toyota Corolla to museum at about 4.00 p.m . All had great time – confining  the visit to kids area only. In all -about 2 hours were spent at the Museum – a quality family time similar to earlier visit to Totonto zoo.

After the zoo-all came home . Her mom was waiting at home after returning from work.   All had dinner together and then Maya went to sleep.   On Sunday all were invited for dinner at Maya’s maternal grandparents home.   So all went in the car – Unfortunately Maya somehow got nuseautic in the car and threw up -all over her car seat and dress.   The car seat was cleaned (thanks to her Ba) and Maya got a change of clothes at her Garndparents home.

For a one &   a half (1 1/2 yr) girl, Maya has developed a good vocabulary and can form sentences which did astound her Ba and Bapuji . Besides she was jovial and always inquisitive. Her communication skills brought many moments of pleasure.

Here is what her Bapuji wrote on an e-mail to her parents after he (and her Ba) returned to Deep River on Thursday 14 March 2013.

e-mail sent – March-15-13 9:10 AM

Title:   Visit to Toronto

Here is the text:

Hi
Our visit to Toronto was fruitful in many ways and for all of us in different context.
Most of all – Maya was replenished with the warmth and love of her Ba and of course Bapuji.
The quality time spent with her – first a visit to Zoo (accompanied by her mom) and then at the end to Ontario Science Museum (accompanied by her dad) – was the highlight for all the in-between shennigans.
Here are a couple of photos for raising the delight and memory. You guys have all the photos – Sunir downloaded these before we left Toronto.
The drive to Deep River was smooth – we arrived home at about 3.40 pm – got my desk top computer from Phil (the Computer technician) – had our dinnner and then we headed to Mackey to play with Sachin & Sitara . Came home again at about 9.30 p.m .
I finished my mail and activities regarding the PEO Annual General Meeting – going to sleep at about 1.00 am early Friday.
Love & Hugs to our lovely girl Maya
:):):) dad pravin
Thursday 14 March 2013

After returning to Deep River   at about 3.35 p.m and getting his computer back from the Technician – both nana/nani went to Mackey to play with Sachin and Sitara. Sachin had phoned to invite his nana/nani – having missed them when they were in Toronto.
All had great time playing and just being together.   On Friday (the day after) both nana/nani went to Petawawa Civic Center to watch both kids skating. They are just learning skating . They spent about 1 1/2 hours (starting at 1.30 p.m   till 3.00 p.m) at the   skating rink.
All went to Pembroke after that – nana/nani separately for shopping and the kids and their parents separetely for their own shopping. After that all met at nana/nani home for dinner. All had a sumtuous dinner and after play (Sitara had a toy movie projector – which she and Sachin played and had all watch the movie – kids characters -with lights turned off. All had great fun with that. After that they all went home to Mackey   .

Saturday 16 March 2013

Sitara’s mom Facebook showed the following.

Sitara Mistry – Raise-A-Thon – Deep…: “Support Sitara for her first Swim-a-Thon. Go to the link and donate! Thanks in advance for your support!!!http://www.ontarioswimathon.ca/drc/profile.php?id=xqwpfay”
Sitara Mistry – Raise-A-Thon – Deep River Candu Swim-A-Thon 2013
www.ontarioswimathon.caNana/nani contributed a fourty dollars sum on line . Her Nani was so pleased with Sitara’s first debut in charity /community service work that she wanted to contribute big. So we did . Hurray for Sitara.

Tuesday 19 March 2013

A financial history was made to-day – Sachin opened up all his  piggy banks at Mackey – counted all the coins & notes in his  piggy banks and had her nani open all his piggy banks in Deep River (at nana/nani) home and then went to Bank of Nova Scotia, Deep River branch

and help deposit all that in his bank account.   He established a good rapport with bank officers (they are now-a-days are not called bank tellers) especially with Sandy . For a 3 1/2 year old boy he was a thorough gentleman and very charming. And the smile on his face was winner.

Saturday 23 March 2013

Both nana/nani got up early to-day. There was a Swin-A-Thon at Mackenzie Pool . As mentioned earlier. Sitara was participating in the Swim-A-Thon.   The event started at 8.00 a.m .   Sitara was there with her parents and brother, Sachin. Both nana/nani arrived just befor 8.00 a.m.   Her swimming started at 8.20 a.m and ended one (1) hour after that. She did some 48 laps in one hour.   She showed a persevering power, not tired after one hour of swiming – doing some 48 laps ( full length of the swimmimg pool) and then still having good strength.   Her mom had to leave   early (at about 8.52 a.m) as she   was at work this Saturday.   After the Swin-a-thon   participation , all went upstairs for a pancake breakfast.   It was well organised – lots of food and a great variety apart from the pancakes.   Bravo Sitara!
After the pancake breakfast – Sitara and Sachin went to FEN birthday Party with their dad & nani   – again at the Mackenzie Community Center. Nana did not join then and went home .

All came to nana/nani home after the FEN party and had a great time playing with both nana /nani though subsequently Sachin went for his afternoon nap.     Their dad had gone to office for work on some urgent issues . After dinner ( when their mom had come and joined in) – again after some playing both   went to sleep at nana/nani home – and their parents   went for a party .

This is what their mom posted on her Facebook page:

” What a wonderful day…Sitara participated in the Swim-a-Thon this morning at 8 am and did great. So proud of her! Then the FEN birthday party…I Love Deep River 🙂 Now for a lovely evening out with friends … Perfect Day “

Sunday 24 March 2013

So the kids had sleep over at nana/nani home.   Wonderful kids!   In the morning first Sachin woke up and later Sitara. As they were completing their breakfast , their   parents came from Mackey. Nina   to work at her Phramacy store and Sunjay had some work at his office on some issues.   Both joined in the breakfast . After breakfast, both parents spent time with the kids. Sachin had an eye on a box (lying at nana/nani living room for some time)   – containing McDonalds’ inflatable “Drive-In” tent. The kids had won that during the 2012 Canada Day celebration at Mackey . This was never opened but somehow had ended up at nana/nani home.   So Sachin   became a bit insistent that he wantedf to have it opened. So his dad was pressed to open it . He did and used an electric air pump to inflate the “Drive-in ” tent.

The kids enjoyed that the whole day – both playing together   well.   Each one wopuld drive to the window ( they have   had an electric vehicle which they can each ride ) andd after awhile they covered the tent with bedsheets and living room blankets -enclosed it completely and they played games together. In the evening, this took an interesting turn. They wanted their nana to tell a story and act out. Such as a bad wolf or a   monster) who would huff and puff anf try to blow the tent away and take away the kids . So nana play acted as a bad wolf, a bad monster and as a pirate and tried to scare the kids with dramatic story and acting. The kids revelled the whole one hour having fun with laughter   nad joining in the noise making .

Subsequent to that   Sitara led her nana downstairs to the recreation room (where they have another tent) . And she draws up 4 sketches   (she is only 5 1/2 yr old) to tell her nana a ‘ ghost ‘ story. She got all the 4 sketches (sequential) hung from the inner wall (over where there is a window panel) and took a flashlight (torch) – going inside the tent – she told the ghost story (with all the dramatic gestures etc)   as she made the story as it unfolded out . Sachin folowed her and tried to make his own   ghost story. He being ionly 3 1/2 half – he was just following his big sister but boy! was he active – trying to make sketches and getting hold of another flashlight .   Though after awhile he gave up that enterprise and diverted himself to play with toys in the Recreation Room.

The best part is that she then pulled her nana to his study as she wanted her “Ghost story ” to be written down   .She askedher nana for help to write it down as she dictated.   Her nana could not understand the her words properly   (because of hearing loss or for other reasons) -so he took Sitara to her nani -who has a better understanding of kids words than nana . So Sitara dictated her story to her nani who wrote it down on a piece of paper. The wriiten form does not highlight all the dramatics that she did when telling the story and the use of the flashlights. So the reader of the story will have to imagine the dramatics on his/her own imaginations.

Here is the story by Sitara:

Once   upon a time

There was a little ghost named Mike

Mike one day went to school   (from his house/home)

Clack! Clack! Clack!  

At School he learnt about flowers and fish

The he went home

Clack! Clack! Clack!

And had dinner

and the he went upstairs to brush the teeth

Clack! Clack! Clack!  

Then he went into his room

Clack! Clack! Clack!

and put his pyjamas on.

Then he climbed   on to his bed.

Tuesday 26 March 2013

A day to celebrate the arrival of Spring. In India they celebrate the spring arrival by merry making with colours – it is called Holi celebration.   Nina was at nana/nani Deep River home with Sachin   (usual Tuesday tradition – as she does not work on Tuesdays and Thursdays) . She got this excitement to celebrate Holi here in Deep River and both nana/nani were game for such exuberance. So with this approval she send invitation to all her friends (using facebook posting) . Here is what she sent out :

” It’s Holi – Indian First Day of Spring and the Festival of Color. Deep River folks…anyone who wants to show up at 65 Rutherford at 6pm today armed with baby powder can feel free to play and throw the powder at everyone in our drive way! Let’s take a few minutes to be free! (no color though…) “

So quite a few of her friends with their kids came over at 6.00 p.m at nana/nani driveway . Sitara was back from her school and Sunjay came from his work (these days he works late due to some urgent task at office) . All families were equiped with tulcam powder -and Nina & nani had also put out quite   a few bowls of powder ready for all.   There was so much excitement and all threw poweder on each other and welcome the spring.

All had a great time and   the little children had fun together -whereby building their lifelong bonding with each other.

So what’s the idea behind holi? what’s the symbolism of the colours and the powder throwing?

This festival which marks the advent of spring, is a harbinger of joy, hope and fulfilment for all. People from India and Nepal celebrate Hindu festival that commemorates spring”™s arrival.

Holi marks the end of the winter gloom and rejoices in the bloom of the spring time.

Whatever be the choice of colour, nobody remains in their original texture at the end of the play. And everybody takes delight looking at the other. Really, the other name of the festival is FUN.

It can be said, “Life turns Colourful” when it is time for Holi.

——————–

Colorful Legend
The legend from which the tradition of playing colours started is full of colours in itself. The story goes that the very colourful Indian god, Lord Krishna was jealous of his soul mate Radha’s fair complexion, since he himself was very dark.

Naughty young Krishna complained to his mother Yashoda about this injustice of nature. To placate the child, doting mother asked Krishna to apply colour on Radha’s face and change her complexion according to his choice.

Playful and mischievous Krishna appreciated the idea and implemented it. The game of applying colours thus gained so much popularity that it became a tradition and later it turned out to be a full fledged festival.

Till date, lovers desired to colour and be coloured by their mates. The application of colours has in a way become an expression of love.

It is a real fun to watch the otherwise always sober people making a clown of themselves.

——————–

In all Sitara was completely spattered (splashed) all over with white powder   and Sachin too with all other kids.

The event lasted for about 1/2 hour .The day was bright and warmer for a winter (early spring) day .   The   day ended with good dinner by the family and the kids went home to Mackey with their   mom all tired out – their dad had to go back to office for a short while .

Thursday 28 March 2013

Both Sitara and Sachin   had a northern journey with their parents and went to Sudbury until Saturday 30 March 2013 -when they all retuned back to Mackey. As I understand this sojourn was planned with two other families ( the parents’ friends) including their chidren.

Here is what was posted on Nina’s Facebook dated Saturday 30 March 2013:

“Wonderful 3 days in Sudbury. The kids had a great 1.5 days playing at Science North and an action packed day at Dynamic Earth (The Big Nickel) which included an Easter Egg hunt around the Big Nickel. Unpacked and laundry on, we’re glad to be home and in our own bed though!”

Easter 2013

1 –   Here we have an e-mail (dated   Friday 29 March 2013) from Maya’s mom (Shannon) as to how she celebrated and enjoyed the Easter

1- Here is Maya modeling the bunny ears she made at daycare. She looks perfectly happy but in fact has a fever of 39.6 degrees and had to be picked up early from daycare yesterday. Let’s hope she gets better soon and that nobody else gets sick – with my big exams in five days, I can’t afford to get sick! Hope you are all enjoying the long weekend. xoxo”

She is a brave little girl – despite her fever she did modelled the bunny ears.

2 – on Sunday 31 March 2013 , Sitara an Sachin went to the Easter party at the Legion Hall in Chalk River (at   1.30 p.m) – their parents took/drove them in Vauxwagon Passt stationwagon and both nana/nani joined them driving in their Toyoto Corolla car. This was after their strenuous and pleasurable trip to Sudbury -returning back to Mackey only yesterday.

At the Easter party , both kids participated in all activities. Sitara did herr painting ( a fill paint type ) along with her nani . Sachin was busy with his dad making a decorated “Nest” – using a styrofoam cup and both did decorate easter eggs with full attention and fun. Then   each one played the “spin-the wheel” – costing 25cts for each spin . Sitara did not win any prize but Sachin did.   However, their nana had bought some raffle tickets for 4.00 dollars – and Sitara won a prize – she chose a nice cuddly blue bunny – a small one.   They also played other games – like shooting a “basket” ball into a net or knocking   5 pins witth   a ball .

At the end of the program at 3.00 p.m –   the organisers had organised a ” Candy rumble ” outside – on a clean patch they had sprayed candy all over – for kid to pick up as many as they can (until all are picked up). Sitara and Sachin had a ball with that like all other kids. The beautiful weather helped to make the “candy rumble” a   very successful. After that nana/nani went to theor home and the kids and parents returned to Mackey – they really need some rest time.

Here is the final comment – from kids mom (Nina)   – posted on the Facebook after some rest home:

“The equivalent of two kids eating candy all day today is me drinking a whole bottle of wine tonight...”

It is between you and God – words of wisdom

The following was found in my daughter’s (Nina’s) school things – much after she had left home, graduated, married and became a mom.

 

If you are kind, people may accuse you of being selfish, having ulterior motives;

                                                                                      Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;

                                                                                    Succeed anyway.

                            If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;

                                                                                    Be honest and frank anyway.

                          If you find serenity and happiness, people may be jealous;

                                                                                    Be happy anyway.

                          The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;

                                                                                    Do good anyway.

                          Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;

                                                                     Give your best to the world anyway.

                          You see, in the final analysis, it is betwen you and GOD;

                                                                 It never is between you and them anyway.              

Pondering !

The following ‘pondering’ was collected by Nina ( daughter ) when she was younger .     It is very thought provoking .

 I was sitting on the steps

 The other day, thinking of You

 and just gazing into this

Mud puddle when all of a

Sudden  I saw this face

Looking back at me and  I said

To myself, “I’m not going to

smile until they do!” so I

Waited, but they didn’t

smile and I got so nervous

And embarrassed that

I smiled first, and right

Away they smiled back

Real friendly like, so I

Was just wondering….

….Do you think it’s

Silly to make friends

With someone who

Lives in a mud puddle?

 

 

 

 

 

 

A touch of “Heaven On Earth” – Christmas 2012 – Family Togetherness

A touch of “Heaven On Earth” – Christmas 2012 – Family Togetherness
  

Background
  

Christmas is a time when family and friends gather together   to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and/or the onset of holidays and welcoming the new year.   Every year our family do get together in Deep River, Ontario – mostly at or just after the Christmas Day but before the New Year day.  

As Canadians – even though we are   not of Christian faith – we do celebrate the arrival of Santa and his   elves   during this time bearing lots of gifts for kids and adults. This celebration and putting up a Christmas tree was instituted the first year when we migrated to Canada -in the year 1974 – when our daughter   (Nina) was born during December 1974 in Niagara Falls . Subsequently our son (Sunir) was also born in Niagara Falls during June 1979.

The family moved to Deep River, Ontario in 1986.  

This tradition of getting together in Deep River was established in 1990s after both our kids ( Nina -our daughter   and then our son Sunir) went away for further studies . Nina went away to Hamilton first   and then to Toronto to complete her Pharmacy course.   Sunir completed his Computer Software graduation in Ottawa and then completed a Masters degree course in Toronto.


After graduation, both Nina & Sunir established themselves in Toronto for their career – though subsequently Nina & her partner/husband (Sunjay) moved to Deep River area in 2006 and moved along to have a family – first our Granddaughter (Sitara) is born during August 2007 and then our Grandson (Sachin) is born during July 2009.   Both Sitara and Sachin are born in Ottawa – Nina (along with family) travelling to Ottawa for delivery from her home in Mackey (near & west of Deep River).
  Sunir however kept himself in Toronto,  got married to Shannon.  Subsequently both became proud parents.  Maya – our Granddaughter – was born during August 2011. Maya is born in Toronto.
So there are now three(3) beautiful grandkids and they have livened up our Senior lives in retirement.


Getting together
  

It is a common belief that family time together will result in peace and progress. It also brings relief and sense of belonging – especially in the modern world when   nuclear families are proliferating and when jobs and earnings separate siblings and take them away to distant places.   So Maya came from Toronto to Deep River, Ontario on Friday 28 December 2012 to visit and celebrate Christmas and New Year Holidays with her paternal grandparents ( “Ba & Bapuji ” – her dad’s parents ),   her aunt, Nina  ( “foi ” in Gujarati language – her dad’s sister ),  and uncle, Sunjay  ( ” fuva”   in Gujarati language – her ” foi‘s ” husband ) as well as with her cousin sister, Sitara and cousin brother, Sachin.     Maya  is just a baby of only a year and five months old and her cousin Sitara is four (4) Years older than her and her cousin brother Sachin is only   two (2)   years older than her.   There is a two (2) years difference between the three (3) grandchildren.  

Maya had been having a tough time recently having an ear ache due to cold and a touch of flu . This was compounded by her mom’s health from a touch of flu (mostly sniffling) and her dad having a  cough.  

The visit was a bit shaky as the flu could have kept them in Toronto but the parents figured that it was manageable with intake of medicine and taking as much rest as possible – before the drive to Deep River, en route to Deep River and while at Deep River.  

The drive to Deep River was commenced on Thursday 27 December 2012 – with a planned break for a night en route in Huntsville and then come over to Deep River on Friday 28 December – about lunch time.

At Huntsville, Maya   & parents stayed with her great grandparents ( her mom’s maternal   grandparents) . Maya got coddled and loved by both her great grandparents and had a good night’s rest before driving (of course with her parents) to Deep River.  

The three grandchildren here in Deep River – one (Maya) a visitor from Toronto and two from the local area (both Sitara and Sachin live at Mackey with their parents -some 25 minutes drive west from Deep River)   but go to school (& day care) at Deep River . Their parents also work in Deep River.  

Sitara & Sachin arrived with their dad at their grandparents home on Friday 28 December 2012 just before lunch to meet their cousin Maya as well as   their uncle, Sunir ( ” Mama ” in Gujarati language ) and Auntie, Shannon ( ” Mami ” in Gujarati language) .

Thus the great getting together of the whole Shah family started on Friday 28 December 2012 and was to span over a few days – of holidays and fun – even while Nina was working during the holidays as Pharmacists are needed to be on duty. She however joined in after work – however late that can be.

Fun   & Frolicking


It was kind of exhilarating that the weather behaved during the time the family was together during the holidays. The weather turn out to be normal winter temperature with no snow falling during this time   – snow had already been on the ground (having fallen a couple of days before)   providing a serene white blanket outdoors all over.

During these few days when the family spent together there were few moments which are etched in memory forever. These moments can be dubbed ” heaven on earth” moments as measureable happiness and joy is felt by all – each in his/her own unique way.

Friday – 28 December 2012

On Friday (28 December 2012) arriving from Huntsville,   both Sunir & Shannon were a bit under the weather but Maya was in good spirit.   Maya was almost at home with her Ba and Bapuji whom she had seen about a month before in Toronto.

She remembered them and their identifying title and called her grandma   correctly “Ba” ” Ba” .   She was hugged and coddled and just made comfortable. Both Sunir & Shannon managed to get some rest in the afternoon.

Soon Maya was joined by her cousins Sitara & Sachin who came about 4.00 p.m. with their dad, Sunjay – after their skiing on Mt Martin Ski hill . Both Sitara and Sachin took well with Maya almost instantly and Sachin immediately hugged her . So did Sitara.

They started to play with Maya and try to pass a couple of  stuffed animal to her .  Maya also explored the decorated Christmas tree standing tall in the living room. All three kids just melted in  each other arms.

Both Sitara and Sachin also got coddled by their SunirMama and ShannonMami. This bond between the kids and their uncle and aunt is since the time they were born.  Maya remained a bit aloof from her ” fuva” as she was enveloped by her cousins in playing with her.  

The Deep River house was full with the three kids playing and making all kinds of frolicking roundabouts and sounds. They played with various available toys in the Living Room.

Both grandparents were thrilled to see the kids having fun together and mostly left them alone – just providing supervision where needed.  

As grandparents we want to make the most of the precious family time we get to spend with our grandchildren.

Of course then all had dinner. The dinner was ” Ragda Patish” – A delicious Gujarati dish prepared by Grandma for the adults and special rice & yogurt curry for the kids.

Maya went to sleep about 7.30 pm – her usual time and after that Sitara & Sachin had an about an hour to play and getting coddled by their SunirMama & ShannonMami.

Sunir played with Sitara and went about normal horsing around and also coddled Sachin – lifting him, bouncing him up and down and just playing with him. ShannonMami read a couple of children books to the kids but mostly Sitara who always likes her Mami to read to her ( books of her choice normally around in her collections at the Deep river home).

Both Sitara & Sachin went back home to Mackey with their dad at about 9.30 p.m.

Nina came over to visit after her work just after 10 p.m. – her workplace (PhramaPlus) stays open late till 10.00 p.m during Christmas Holidays .   Nina had a good ” shooting the breeze ” time with her brother (Sunir) & Shannon and went home to Mackey about 11.00 p.m.
 

Saturday   29 December 2012

On Saturday   29 Dec –   all spent the day at Deep River and mostly remained indoors within home.  

During the day Sitara played Board game with her Mama. All kids , Sunir , Shannon & Sunjay had gone outdoors (in the afternoon) in front of the house to make a snowman & play around in the snow. Maya was coddled by her “fuva” while playing and making snowman outdoors.

All had lunch & dinner together except Nina who was at work at lunch time but managed to join for dinner as her work finished at 6.00 p.m. this day -its being a  Saturday.

After dinner, Christmas and Holiday gifts were exchanged and opened by the excited kids and adults alike.   Many photos and video clips were taken – freezing the happy moments and 2012 family faces/features on multiple digital cameras.

Grandparents were just around –Grandma preparing meals and grandpa just helping around wherever possible either with kids or setting the table for meals.

Spending time with grandchildren is always fun – especially when the whole family is around.  Regardless of what you do together, time with grandchildren is always fun. Whether you are teaching them something new or learning something from them, there’s a special bond between the grandchildren and the grandparents.

Sitara & Sachin had to be coaxed and pleaded before they agreed to get ready to go home to Mackey with their parents at around 9.30 p.m.

Sunday 30 December 2012

Sunday was special day as both Nina and Sunjay had planned to celebrate the family togetherness by having a family party at their home in Mackey.  

It was special day as the celebratory meal was to be prepared by Sunjay  – as Nina was at work till 5.00 p.m. Sunjay is a master chef – he has good culinary sense and can whip up very enjoyable testy meals for any occasion.

Maya along with her parents and her Ba/Bapuji arrived at Mackey in the morning around 10.00 a.m.   Maya came in her parents rented car and her Ba/Bapuji came separately in their 2010 Toyoto Corolla car.

Sunjay prepared a sumptuous dinner meal which was supported by grandma’s addition – especially for a great lunch. A glass of wine led to “toasting” each other for best wishes . Both Sitara & Sachin also clicked their glasses with the adults – of course their glasses were filled with a mix of apple juice and water.

During the day Sitara spent time with her Mama – working to build the   3D Ginger Bread puzzle. She also played a board game with him.
Sachin & Maya spent playing with miscellaneous toys scattered around the living room and the kitchen area.

Maya was a free bird – running here & there . Getting into the blue big truck – being pushed around by her dad & also Bapuji.  Sachin also played with his Thomas train toys.

Playing with young kids   – is always exhilarating and joyful and to experience games, music, nature, reading, and other interests in conjunction with a curious young mind.

It was ” heaven on earth ” moment multiple times when enjoying a synergy between young and adults – all the worries and concern of adult life put away – however momentarily.

Again, many photos and video clips were taken on multiple digital cameras.

Maya was put to bed early around 8.00 p.m. while the other two kids stayed up for a little while longer.  Their SunirMama & ShannonMami   stayed the night at Mackey and the grandparents return back to Deep River around 9.30 p.m.

Grandchildren see the world ”” whether near or far ”” in special ways, and through them, grandparents rediscover the joy of visiting and spending valuable quality time with kids & grandkids.
 

Monday  31 December 2012 – New Year eve

Maya came over to Deep River with her parents after having breakfast with her cousins at Mackey.

She was cuddled, coddled and just loved by her Ba and Bapuji while she was getting ready for a visit to her dad’s friend’s family   ( Nadia – who has 5 kids of her own) in Deep River. Maya has a great time with the kids during her visit.

In the meantime, Sitara and Sachin came over with their dad to spend more time with Maya and their uncle and aunt.

After Maya returned back -she and kids played with each other.  Maya got a bath and Sachin just joined in the bath along with Maya given by his ShannonMami.

After that some creative craft time – all 3 kids were industrious making/decorating 2 Ginger Bread houses – led by ShannonMami & helped by Sunjay.

Nina joined in after work at about 5.00 p.m and all had dinner together.

After that Mistrys along with Kids went to Ron/Diane home to celebrate the arrival of 2013 – while seniors spent time with Sunir/Shannon at home as Maya went to sleep by 8.00 p.m.

By this time both Sunir & Shannon were well   rested and feeling much healthier than when they arrived for holidays at Deep River.  

A   contentment in the grandparents hearts was visible and very sweet.

Tuesday 1 January 2013

Happy New Year. All wished an enjoyable and successful new Year to the family members.

Maya returned to Toronto with her parents – stopping en route at Huntsville (at her great grandparents home) for lunch break.

The family time together is momentarily over – all there grandkids had a ball of a time with lots cuddles , hugs and kissed along with gifts to play with   and enjoy.

Prayers were offered by each grandparents   ( nana/nani for Sitara & Sachin and on the other side Ba and Bapuji for Maya)   for thanks to our Guardian Angel for a great and satisfying few days – sort of    ” heaven on earth ” moment for now.
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Some Pre & Post – Holidays events
  

1) Thursday 27 December 2012

Both the Grandparents (Deep River version) were invited for pre-Christmas lunch at their Burmese friends’ (Kay & Zin) home .   Hershi (one of the friends ) also joined in. Kay & Zin have two sons – one (Ken) is now grown up and is in the Canadian Navy.  He was home visiting for the Christmas holidays.  

Their other son   – Thit – a teen turning about 18 and doing his   high school at the Mackenzie Community School in Deep River.

Thit has obtained his airplane pilot license   – having got training over the last year or so in Arnprior. His dad also has started the pilot lessons . He also bought a 4 seater-single engine plane – being parked currently at Arnprior Airport.

This shows how much a father loves his son – and support him in his endeavour to better himself   – and which will remain for life time  . There is an embedded fatherly instinct to see his son be successful   and confident in himself.

Kay & Zin have also their parents – Kay’s mother and Zin’s dad living with them in Deep River. Zin’s dad (Joe) is a scholar and a linguist – especially for Sanskrit (   an ancient language of India). All had good time together – building bonds of friendship.

Ken- the elder son had brought gifts (he is residing in Halifax, Nova Scotia) – for each of our three(3) grandkids . That was a very nice gesture on his part and was appreciated immensely.
 

2)   Thursday 3 January 2013

The Burmese friends came over for dinner on this fine day . Harshi – the other friend also joined in.    

Ken came with his special dinner dish – bedeviled eggs – with special spices added. This dish is loved by all.

Every year Ken does make this dish . Hershi made a special Gujarati dish with Yogurt ( Danhi Vada ). Grandma (nani) made Gujarati dinner with dal , rice and Chappaati.

Both Ken & Thit love this Gujarati cuisine. Kay also brought a couple of enchanting salads and other dishes.

Unfortunately, Zin’s dad and Kay’s mom did not come – it was cold outside and they did not feel risking health.

However all had a great meal and camaraderie and enjoyed the company to   warm the hearts.
 

3)    Wednesday 2 January 2013

This day Sitara & Sachin travelled by car (starting in the evening) to Toronto with their parents   and to spend the night in Huntsville – a break in travel before proceeding to Toronto.   They will return after a week away from home. It is planned to be back on Wednesday 9 January 2013.

They had gone   to London ( Anjali & Avak family) ,   to Niagara Falls & to spend some time in Toronto)

Their going away after a great family get together (just a couple of days before) left a kind of void (a sort of mini Empty Nest feeling) in the grandparents’ (kids nana/nani) hearts-   as the absence of kids’ laughter and play for a week was kind of difficult to bear. It was for a week but felt like they were going away much too long.

 4)   Saturday 12 January 2013

Sitara wanted to spend the day with her nana/nani – so she requested her mom.   Sitara then came over with her mom ( who was working this day in Deep River) – spent the   day with her nana/nani. Sachin did not come as he was still sleeping when his mom left home for work.     Sachin remained home with his dad.

Sitara then in the afternoon joined her nana/nani to a prayer satsang at Ushaben’s home – where chanting to Gods was being done (aided by the Art of Living disciples from Pembroke) . Sitara enjoyed playing (as accompaniment to the satsang songs ) along with other kids – the Indian musical instruments.

She then went home -her mom came over after work at Ushaben’s home to pick her up – after having dinner.

5)   Wednesday 16 January 2013

Sitara’s KG   teacher (Mrs. Cox ) came over to nana/nani home on the evening of Wednesday to borrow the “Snoopy” ice & ice cream maker ( this is a toy ice machine – which makes real ice and ice-cream)   . This toy machine was bought many years ago when Sitara’s mom was a young girl – for her amusement and learning . Also used for Sunir’s fun too when he was growing up.

Mrs. Cox wants to use this machine at Sitara’s KG class on Friday – to demonstrate making of ice and ice-cream.     OH ! how items saved and kept well – can be useful after many years for the children of the original kids.

6)   Thursday   17 January 2013

Sitara went to Ottawa with her parents ( & Sachin) for her annual allergy check-up . It was a very cold day ( – 20 to – 25 degrees C)

They also used the day to enjoy the “Winterlude” happenings in the Capitol.

 

 

   

   

New Year Party Song – sang at 1 January 1987 Party

New   Year Party Song – (1987)  – at Dr. Chatterjee’s House in Pembroke, Ontario

A Fun Song –  composed By Pravin/Jashoda  Shah   –  newly arrived in the area at the time.

Song Chorused by Jashoda (Jackie) Shah  

—————

New Life    New Friends
Deep River   Trails and Forests
Rama and Mahavir’s Forests
Bring Joy and Happiness
Chorus
  Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Veda  New Puja
Deep River  Nuclear Families
Vinay’s Tea  Brew Radioactive
Bring Joy   and Happiness
Chorus
  

Happy New YearHappy New YearHappy New Year to allHappy New YearNew Veda  New PujaDeep River  Nuclear FamiliesVinay’s Tea  Brew RadioactiveBring Joy   and HappinessHappy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Ramnik   New Champa
Deep River   Welcome Wagon
Shah Tradition We Welcome
Bring Joy   And  Happiness
Chorus
  Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Sports   New School
Deep River New Children
Nina   and Sunir’s   Amalgam
Bring Joy  and  Happiness
Chorus
  

Happy New YearHappy New YearHappy New Year to allHappy New YearNew Sports   New SchoolDeep River New ChildrenNina   and Sunir’s   AmalgamBring Joy  and  HappinessHappy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Life   New Friends
Deep River   and   Pembroke
Fancy Parties at   Chatterjees
Bring Joy   and Happiness
Chorus
   Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
New Pravin     New Jashoda
Deep River in Winter Grip
Paddle Boats With Friends and All
Bring Joy   and Happiness
Chorus
  Happy New Year
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all
Happy New Year
Pravin/Jashoda Shah   1 Jan 1987

Happy New YearHappy New YearHappy New Year to allHappy New YearPravin/Jashoda Shah   1 Jan 1987

 

Jain Song (5) – Arhat Oh Arhat

Jain Song composed in 1984 -5

( Tune : Merrily We Roll Along )

Arhat   Oh Arhat   ARHAT   Oh ARHAT
Absolute Liberation
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT


This Greed This Jealousy
Freedom Is the Choice
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT  


This Want This Mirage
Liberty Is the Choice
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT

ARHAT   Oh ARHAT
Absolute Liberation
What a Beacon!
What a Beacon!
Oh ARHAT

 

Pravin Shah

 

 

Jain Song (7) – With Respect And Love For All Life

Jain Song composed in 1984 -7

( Tune : Happy Wanderer )

With Respect And Love For All Life

With Respect and Love For all Life
My tranquil and Happy Friend
Forgive and Forget     ( Repeat)
That’s What Jainism Is All About

For Peace and Bliss To all Life
My Friend Walk an Extra Mile
Forgive and Forget     ( Repeat)
That’s What Jainism Is All About

To Care For all Creatures Alike
My Sharing and Tender Friend
Forgive and Forget     ( Repeat)
That’s What Jainism Is All About


With Respect and Love For all Life
My Tranquil and Happy Friend
Forgive and Forget     ( Repeat)
That’s What Jainism Is All About

CHORAS
Forgive and Forget    
Forgive and Forget    
My Friend, Forgive and Forget    
Forgive and Forget    
 

Pravin Shah