Category Archives: Poems-Birthdays

O! Canada – 2016 NRT – 29 June 2016 edition

Published in the North Renfrew Times (Deep River) – 29 June 2016 edition.

Celebrating Canada Day – 01 July 2016

O! Canada

Canada our majestic land

With heart of Gold

Welcoming

Suffering masses from far lands

So much love respect for humanity

Canada a land of smiles and cheers

from sea to sea

Canada Our majestic land

Confident relaxed nation

A God given “heaven” on earth

Many Many thanks

For being our home

Our future

We celebrate Canada Day

With great pride and joy

O! Canada

we stand on guard for thee

Pravin Shah

26 July 2016

Grandparents – 2016- 2nd Quarter

Happy Birthday to Nana by Sitara/Sachin and Happy Birthday tio Bapuji by Maya and Kieran – to be celebrated on 8th April by the the whole family gathering in Toronto .

Also happy “Bal Movara Day” for Kieran – to be celebrated on Saturday 09 April 2016.

Thursday 07 April 2016

It was snowing and roads were needing clearing. It took a better part of the day to have inner roads at Mackey to be cleared – once the snow shoveling crew became free from Highway 17 cleared.

This day the kids (Sitara and Sachin) along with nana/nani left in nana’s 2001 maroon Dodge caravan to go to Toronto – driven by their mom (and partly by nana) . Left Mackey at about 5.00 pm.

Note: Their dad will come to Toronto next day in their VW Passat car . The Mistry family is getting ready to go to Jamaica for a vacation .

The kids were asleep when the gang arrived at SunirMama’s place at about 10:30 pm . Maya and Kieran were already gone to bed . So immediately after arrival in Toronto all went to sleep – after a short pow-wow with their SunirMama.

Next day Friday 08 April 2016 – it was house full of kids running up and down (from 7.00 am ) – all also wishing their granddad a Happy Birthday . Nana/Bapuji became 76 years to-day .

Sitara had got up early and was looking after already woken-up Kieran – reading him a book sitting on the chair in Kieran’s room . What a scene! Sitara now grown up (8 years and loving cousin -enjoying coddling 2 year old Kieran).

After breakfast, Kieran was gone to his DayCare and Maya to her Junior KG class – Sitara and Sachin and their mom joined Shannon to take them to their respective school on foot.

After lunch , Sitara/Sachin went to Sky Zone Trampoline Park on Esandar Drive for the trampoline jumping — with their mom and nana/nani. They had a great time. All returned to Mama’s house at about 4.30 pm – when both Maya and Kieran were picked up from their respective school by their mom and they were in the playground across their house – both Sitara and Sachin joined them at the playground – had fun on swing(s) and slides.

After dinner time . a birthday celebration for Granddad (Nana/Bapuji) was enjoyed with cake and birthday singsong by all. Kieran along with all other kids had lots of fun .

And then after much play , both Maya and Kieran went to sleep at their regular time and Sitara (who had been bunking in Maya’s room and Sachin who had been sleeping in his bed with nana/nani ) also were coaxed to go to sleep. Sunjay arrived at about 10.30 pm from Mackey and after a short rest with the family ( and partaking tea and birthday cake) – both Nina and Sunjay went to Kathy/Doug’s house to sleep. Shannon’s parents are gone to New Orleans to enjoy the Jazz festival there and have suggested for use of their house for sleeping – to minimize congestion at Sunir/Shannon’s house – now that the whole 3 families are under the same roof.

Saturday 09 April 2015

This is an auspicious day as the family celebrated Kieran’s “Bal Movara” (Mundan) – starting at 11.40 a.m . He is 2 years now and the Hindu tradition says that the “Bal Movara” is better done when the child is under 3 year old.

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NOTE:

Significance of “Mundan” ( “Bal Movar”) ceremony – baby’s first hair removal

Mundan ceremony – baby’s first hair removal, Jain/Hindu hair removal tradition

The Mundan ceremony ritual that involves the tonsuring of the baby”™s head. This ritual of doing away of the hair retained from birth is performed by Jains, Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims too. This tonsuring is done after the baby completes his first year and anytime between three years of age. Usually the Mundan is done on the 7th, 9th and or the 11th month. However, with modernised cultures ”“ these days are not always observed.

It is believed that carrying out the mundan ceremony takes care of the following aspects of the child

1. Your child gets a better future

2. The child gets a long life

3. The child is protected from the evil eye of others

4. The ceremony also cleans the body and the soul of the child

5. It is good as the head of the child can be cool in summers

6. A child who is teething requires mundan ceremony to feel more comfortable and relaxed.

7. It is also good for the better hair growth of the child

8. The mundan ceremony also improves the strength of the nerves in the brain of the child.

9. The child must let go of the past life and start a new life so the mundan ceremony is vital.

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Both Maya and Kieran got a pair of new clothing . Sitara and Sachin also got new clothing earlier separately ordered by her parents (on line) . Also all kids got some small cash as good luck.

Nina being Kieran’s Foi did a symbolic cutting of Kieran’s hair – though actual hair cut was done earlier by a barber and lofts of hair were gathered (in Zip bag) for eventual submission to a river stream ( most possibly the Ottawa River) . The Ottawa River runs through Deep River and alsl along Mackey.

In the afternoon after lunch, all drove to TIFF (two cars) to enjoy an outing at Digital

TIFF is a charitable cultural organization with a mission to transform the way people see the world, through film.

Kids(and adults) has lots of fun and participated in various activities such as:

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digiPlaySpace

Experience an interactive adventure featuring 24 new-media exhibits from around the world.

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All kids had their faces painted and Sitara, Sachin and Nina has their caricature painting done by artists there.

After TIFF adventure, all went home and got ready to go to Oshwal’s Spring Event at Banbury Community center . Kids participated in various games – played with each other and also with adults . Kieran was have lots of fun along with his sister and cousins – with other kids at the event.

Oshwal Community is Ba/Bapuji’s heritage – their ancestral and present social grouping .

Maya/Kieran left the party early (with their parents) as they needed their good sleep and the remainder two families stayed – the adults played “Chokdi ” – Whist card game) and kids entertained themselves playing with other kids.

After that all came home by 11.00 pm – Nina/Sunjay went to Kathy/Doug’s home to sleep .

Sunday 10 April 2016

The kids got up at their usual time – had fun together and played with adults too.

Kieran got a painting from Sitara for his 2 year birthday – a robot coming out of sky . Sachin also gave Kieran a sketch that he made for Kieran.

The Mistry family went away to a hotel near airport ( Best Western) to stay there the night – so the next day (Monday 11 April 2016) they can go to airport early (7.00 am) for catching a flight to Jamaica for their holiday.

The following Monday and Tuesday – the routine of Maya and Kieran going to their Daycare and school was maintained – Kieran driven by his mom in their Subaru Outback car and Maya went with her Ba walking .

Kieran has a very keen sense of observing what is happening around him. So, on Tuesday just before breakfast he saw his Ba with his dad’s blue shirt and immediately noted that his Ba was carrying some buttons – Kieran just piped up/ asking tone ” Ba doing buttons ! ” Ba said yes and then asked him whether he would want to help. Of course Kieran was just plain a happy to do that. So breakfast was kept pending -and both Kieran and Ba moved over to the living room sofa and did buttoning of the shirt together. Maya also joined them subsequently – at least observing the activity.

Ba/Bapuji spent afternoon going to play bridge card game on both days at a bridge club . Maya was then picked up from school by her Ba while Kieran was picked up by his mom after her work.

It was a great time spending with all the kids and Ba/ Bapuji returned back to Deep River on Wednesday 13 April 2016.

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Sitara and Sachin – flew from Toronto (West jet) on Monday 11 April 2016 to Jamaica with their parents – for vacation to Montego Bay at the amazing resort at Hilton Rosehall . Returning time to Toronto Pearson Airport – early Tuesday morning (00:26 am) 19 April 2016 .

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Amazing Resort – Hilton Rosehall – thats where the family went.

This is what Nina reported (posted ) on her Facebook (with the photo of the swimming pool at the Hilton>:

” This is high time, when the pool was the busiest! Seriously the most chill and lovely resort so far. Small, not crowded, always deck chairs and cabanas available, awesome entertainment AND a waterpark with a tubing, slides and a lazy river. Most fantastic wink emoticon ”

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The kids and parents returned to Mackey late in the evening of Tuesday 19 April 2016 – in their VW Passat car – which their parents had parked at the Best Western Hotel .

Friday 22 April 2016

Sachin’s words of wisdom:

This is what his mom posted on her Facebook repeated this day – what she had posted last year (memories) on 22 April 2015 (when Sachin was 5 years old) wall on this day:

” Me: Washing the shower glass in my bathroom
Sachin: “Oh! So this is how I will clean the shower when this is my room. My kids will be downstairs in my room.”
Me: “WHERE WILL WE BE!?!?”
Sachin: “You’ll be dead….but I will have Pictures of you” (he only added the photo thing after he saw the look on my face) ”

Saturday 23 April 2016

Finally coaxed the Mackey family (Nina, Sunjay , Sitara and Sachin) to a dinner party at Bears Den in Deep River – with an old refrain of celebrating Sunjay’s promotion (which happened eons ago and celebrated with dinner at Santa Fe in Deep River. had a lovely time at Bears Den – kids enjoyed it and nana/nani were just joyful. Of course both Nina and Sunjay were relaxed and enjoyed the evening.

Just before and then after Bears Den dinner, the family played a new card game – “Skip.Bo” together. Sachin was in the element and Sitara as usual played well.

Note: Skip.Bo is a commercial version of the card game Spite and Malice. In 1967, Minnie Hazel “Skip” Bowman of Texas began producing a boxed edition of the game under the name Skip-bo. In 1980 the game was purchased by International Games, which was subsequently bought by Mattel in 1992.

Friday 22 April 2016

Announcement – Maya and Kieren got a new cousin sister, Julia. Their mom sent the following e-mail (to-day) with the baby’s photos – see below:

  +" Erika and Mathieu's baby was born yesterday!   A Beautiful baby girl

 named Julia, weighing 6lb 14oz. Parents and baby are doing well. Maya

and Kieran are excited to have a new cousin. I can't wait to go to

Switzerland next month to visit my new niece "

Julia is born on Thursday 21 April 2016 in Switzerland . Proud parents are Erica and her husband Mathieu. Erica is Shannon’s sister and thus she is Maya/Kieran’s aunt.

Friday 29 April 2016

Both Sitara and Sachin had a sleep-over at nana/nani home as both parents went to Ottawa. Their dad on business and their mom went to have her car (VW) for a maintenance job at a VW dealer in Ottawa. After that the parents got together and stayed in Ottawa for a night – near Byward market. This is what their mom posted on her Facebook Wall about having a dinner at the Byward market Courtyard Restaurant :

“ Yummy brunch at the beautiful, peaceful Courtyard in The Market. We will have to try out the other suggestions the next time when we are not staying in the market. ”

However, in the afternoon both nana/nani went to Mackenzie Community School auditorium (in Deep River) to attend a school assembly where the subject for discussion was ” Responsibility ” and also award was announced to some students for recognition of their “Responsible ” attitude in their class . This time Sachin or Sitara did not make the mark but Sachin had specially asked for nana/nani to attend the event.

After school. both the kids were picked up by nana/nani and after going over to Valumart for grocery shopping all went home and had dinner . After dinner, kids were driven by nana/nani to Deep River Library for “Book Sale” event – where both of the kids bought several books . Nana also bought 5 books by J. A. Jance – a mystery writer.

After returning home and after having dissert , the kids and their nani watch a movie on the TV before the kids went to sleep.

Saturday 30 April 2016

On Saturday, after breakfast, kids were accompanied by nana/nani went to “Spring Carnival” at the Mackenzie School Gym organized by a student body for a fund raiser. Kids had a lovely time, face painting, temporary tattoos , can knocking, bouncing in the inflated play unit -and also hitching onto some of their friends to have fun.

After lunch, kids settled down with TV and computer games for short time but then Sachin was walked by his nani to one of his friends (Kyle) home for a birthday party . His friends lives very close to nana/nani home in Deep River. Sitara got involved with her nani in the kitchen to make apple dessert. See the following as to what was posted by her mom on her Facebook Wall re; the dessert.

Sitara designed and made dessert tonight followed by a rousing game of “Pass the Gas” where if you pass wind, you are Out!

Her nana commented on the post : The machine does it when pressed at a wrong time.

Saturday 30 April 2016

Kieran’s mom posted a photo of Kieran on her facebook Wall with title : ” Saturday morning fun “. Kieran with the rain boots and sunglasses with the Jammies. Bapuji commented Kieran as ” Macho man ”

Maya also had her mom posted a photo of her with the title: ” More Saturday fun “.

Maya with an excellent Pose with a subtle smile in her flower outfit, fingers/toes painted and colorful slippers.

Thursday 05 May 2016

This day the summer activities (new) started for Sitara and Sachin. The swimming immediately after the end of school – at the Mackenzie pool . This pool was closed down during winter for a major renovation/repair work and now it is complete and thus swimming has now begun. After swimming , Sachin had soccer practice at Grouse Park in Deep River – Tim Horton black Jersey No. 9 .

So after swimming all came over to nana/nani home for dinner – by the way nana had made a banana/bread dessert -which went very well with all but particularly kids – who kept saying “yummy” few times. Sachin also took a vote of all diners as to who liked the dessert – of course all raised hands .

Sunday 08 May 2016

Nana/nani went over to Mackey and joined the Kids (Sitara/Sachin) and family to go to Stonecliffe ( about 5 minutes drive west of Mackey for a “Relay for Life ” Mother’s Day breakfast Fundraiser at Stonecliffe Townhall.

The breakfast was fun and the program of raffles etc was exciting – for both Sitara and Sachin to enjoy.

Kids won 3 prizes ( small) on a raffle.

After the program – all came back home to Mackey . Sunjay (kids’s dad) then went to Toronto for a week on business need. Nana/nani stayed and played with the kids different games and after dinner all played Monopoly (for a short time ) and the kids were tucked into sleep (having adults reading story books to them) .

Monday 09 May 2016

Today there was an “Evening of Music” at the auditorium at Mackenzie Community School in Deep River starting at 7.00 pm – where Sitara also participated as a singer in her school group(s). Nana/nani joined her mom (Nina) and her brother (Sachin) as audience to enjoy the music and songs.

Wednesday 13 May 2016

Good News — It is official . Maya and Kieran will have another sibling by the end of the year or just after the New year of 2017.

Here is what Shannon sent by e-mail (of this date) to her family members :

Hi everyone,

Here is your first glimpse of your future

niece/nephew/grandchild! I went for my dating ultrasound this morning

and based on the baby's measurements, they pushed the due date back from

 December 30 to January 7. Less likely to be a Christmas baby, but it

still could be born in either 2016 or 2017... we will have to wait and

see! All looks good so far... and I am feeling less nauseous today :)

Love Shannon and Cocoa Puff #3
xox

Tuesday 17 May 2016

Ba made special food (" prasad ") as an offering to Gods and our ancestors - this was in preparation for submitting Kieran's hair ( brought from Toronto last month - when his "Bal Movara" - cutting of some of his " birth hair " was done) to the flowing river. Sachin participated (as he had just arrived at nana/nani home for usual Tuesday evening meal from the school with his dad) with his nana and nani in the prayers when symbolically offering of food - along with lighting a candle.

Wednesday 18 May 2016

This day Ba and Bapuji went over to the Ottawa River (at the marina in Deep River) to first spread the " prasad " to environment along the river - for bugs (like ants etc ) for their feed.   After that Kieran's hair (symbolic cluster of hair) were submitted into the river at the Lighthouse location - where there is deeper river water.

Friday 20 May 2016

This day was a new experience for Maya and Kieran – they were to spend a week or so with their dad alone as their mom (Shannon) was to air travel to Switzerland today along with her sister Heather – to be with their other sister Erica – who recently became a new mother with a lovely daughter, Julia. Their mom and Aunt Heather have gone to Switzerland to celebrate with their younger sister the arrival of Julia . It also means their cousin , Cole , is also being looked after by his dad, Ryan . So two dads in Toronto are being modern dads who can look after their kids well by themselves – when their (kids’) moms are either professionally or socially required to travel away from the family.

Shannon and Heather are expected to return to Toronto from Switzerland on Saturday 28 May 2016

Saturday 21 May 2016

This was an exciting day for the kids (Sitara and Sachin) and their parents. A snake was spotted in the swimming pool – which was recently activated after the winter shutdown. Sunjay managed to get it out of the pool and it was transported away and let go in the grass away from the property.

The swimming pool was once again emptied, new water and chemicals were added and the family went back to swim in it on Monday (Victoria Day) 23 May 2016.

By the way, Nina/Sunjay named the snake — ” Our new friend Fred Bob George ”

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Note:

The snake is called ” Northern Ringneck ”

Mostly harmless but if they get ticked off enough they will bite and they are Venomous. For the most part the Venom is mild, but some people can react to it, They say Venomous, but it’s really more like a bee sting/welt reaction. However some people will react violently if they are bitten.

It is believed that the only venomous snake in Canada was the Mississauga rattlesnake.

This slender snake is aptly named for the distinct yellow, cream or orange ring around the neck. The body is a uniform dark grey, brown or black. This species has smooth scales. Juveniles tend to be even blacker than the adults and have velvety skin. The belly of the northern ring-necked snake is generally bright yellow or orange with dark edges, although sometimes it is a dull yellow or whitish yellow. Ring-necked snakes can grow to just over 70 centimetres in length but are usually 30 to 40 centimeters long.

Ring-necked snakes are nocturnal and remain under rocks, logs and leaf piles during the day. These snakes are social and can often be found in groups. If threatened, the northern ring-necked snake may emit a musky odour or display its bright underside to scare off predators.

Wednesday 25 May 2016

Completed reading ” Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone ” by J. K. Rowling – a popular kids book. Sachin (my grandson – 6 yrs old) ) is reading these books and he would want his nana (me) to read these too. So the book was borrowed from him (nay – from his mom) .

Thursday 26 May 2016

This day Nina drove nana (and nani) to Ottawa for an appointment at the Heart Institute – for pre- surgery meeting for the upcoming nana’s Heart Bypass surgery – BUT also it was the day when Sitara began participating in the Province-wide tests for various subjects taught in Grade 3 class (amongst other Grades) at McKenzie Community School in Deep River. This tests will last for the better part of the week

Friday 27 May 2016

It was nana/nani’s 49th Wedding Anniversary . Sitara and Sachin phoned with Happy Anniversary song – prior to them going to their school (by bus) and later after that nana was driven by her mom (accompanied by their nani ) to Ottawa Heart Institute for a pre-ops appointment – to get ready for Bypass surgery on Wednesday June 01 , 2016.

Also in the evening , Maya and Kieran were with their dad -on the phone – wishing Ba/Bapuji a Happy Anniversary.

Saturday 28 May 2016

Shannon will be returning back to Toronto from visiting her sister Erica and the baby niece (Julia) in Switzerland. She went there along with her sister Heather from Toronto. Both Maya and Kieran would be joyous to see their mom after absence of a week or there about.

Saturday 28 May 2016

This week Sitara, Sachin, their mom and dad were to go to Ottawa to participate in a marathon – where the family will join in a walk for 5 km -within the marathon.

This is what their mom posted on her Facebook on Sunday 29 may 2016 – with photos

Ottawa 5km – May 28, 2016 – SO HOT – Felt like 36C – So proud of the kids!

Sunday 29 May 2016

Both Sitara and Sachin came over to Deep River (after completing their home work) -with their parents -driven by parents – to spend afternoon/ time with nana/nani .

Tuesday 31 May 2016

This day nana was driven in the afternoon to Ottawa by Nina. Both Sitara and Sachin to be with their dad . nani accompanied nana – all stayed at the Intern Residence – very close to the Ottawa Heart Institute

Nana had a Bypass Surgery at the Ottawa Heart Institute – he needed to be there early morning at 6.00 a.m on Wednesday 01 June 2016 – so Nina (and nani ) drove nana to the Heart Institute in the morning ( even though it was close to the Intern Residence – it was felt being early in the morning it is wise to drive to the Heart Institute)

Nana went into the Operating Theater – all on a wheeled stretcher with nani and Nina walking besides the stretcher . While on stretcher Nana spoke out poems for his loving grandkids – one at a time – sort of a ” couplet of poem ” for each grandchild and Nina was good enough to record the poems in her cell-phone for posterity. These grandkids – all four of them are so precious keeping nana lively.

After the surgery was over , nana was wheeled into the ICU for recovery from anesthesia (administered before the surgery) – where nani and Nina were also waiting to be sure all went well with the surgery. The surgery was an unique non -invasive procedure developed by Dr. Mark Ruel (and his colleagues) . For nana’s surgery Dr. Ruel was the surgeon , He is also the Chief Surgeon at the Ottawa Heart Institute.

Nina returned back to Mackey on Thursday to be with the family -as nana was well looked after by the Hospital staff but also by nani who stayed behind at the Intern Residence. Nina returned back to Ottawa to bring nana (and nani) back to Deep River on Monday 06 June 2016 – but nana could not be released because of complications in his Heart beats (heart rhythm) and thus the return to Deep River was postponed till next day Tuesday 07 June 2016.

Tuesday 07 June 2016

This day nana was driven from the Heart Institute in Ottawa by Nina in the afternoon arriving at Deep River home at 6.00 pm.

Wednesday 08 June 2016 to Tuesday 14 June 2016

This period was a bit of a turmoil for the family as nana was getting settled at home – keeping his health stabilized as much as possible. There was a bit of panic the day after arriving home as Heart rate and Blood pressure were found higher than normal . Dr Ruel’s office (in Ottawa at Heart Institute) was notified – who subsequently changed the Beta blocking medicine . Nana’s health has remained quite stable after that. Nana also kept carrying out normal expected exercises and walking (as instructed by the Heart Institute ) on a daily basis .

Both Sitara and Sachin have been visiting their nana practically every day and Maya and Kieran had been in communications with their Bapuji at least in the early days after arrival at home.

Both Sitara and Sachin had been very understanding kids – always wanted to be near nana , hug him, play with him or converse with him.

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Sachin also saw nana’s surgery Video on the CTV Ottawa News on Wednesday 08 June 2016 along with his dad, nana and nani. Both Sitara and her mom were at the swimming at that time and thus missed seeing the video. So nana’s surgery was videoed by the CTV Ottawa News for informing public of the latest non-invasive method for artery bypass – as perfected by Dr. Ruel (of the Ottawa Heart Institute)

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Sachin wants to play with nana – cards (Go Fish or Making 10s ) and he has left Pokomen story books for nana to read. Sitara wants to be nana or nana to be with her and thus both of them spend time on the computer (she watch her videos) or getting nana participating in her Barbie -” make believe ” games with palace and car for transport. All these toys are present at nana/nani home since they were born – added over the years.

What a lovely and polite way of connecting with nana and keeping his spirits high during this recovery time for nana. They are just the sunshine -what one needs in life.

Saturday 12 June 2016

Sachin was talking to his nani – that can he stay at DR for the night – he does not want to go to Mackey and he would rather stay in DR to keep company with his nana when nani is busy preparing comforts for nana. So perceptive and caring grandson – shows responsibility.

Thursday 16 June 2016

It was a beautiful day . Sunir called on his cell-phone to enquire about his dad (Maya/Kieran’s Bapuji) while they were at a year-end barbeque party at Maya’s school. Kieran was there with them too. However Shannon was busy elsewhere. So Maya/Kieran enjoyed the barbeque at the school and made most of the nice warm day. Tomorrow (Friday 17 June 2916) – all of them are going to the Cottage for the weekend (their maternal grandparents’ cottage ). Their auntie Heather , uncle Ryan and cousin Cole will also join them .

Thursday 16 June 2016

Both Sitara and Sachin came over to nana/nani home after school (and Sitara’s swimming at the Mackenzie pool) – with their dad. Their mom was conspicuous by absence as she was working ( her locum jobs) . All had dinner together – in between the kids’ soccer , art class etc – being transported by their dad.

Sitara did asked her nani – about missing her mom at the table . Sitara particularly asked her nani – whether she (nani) feels bad that her mom could not be at the dinner table. At the end of the dinner Sitara asked for piece of “Quiche” to take home (Mackey) for her mom (Nina) This made nani very very happy.

Friday 17 June 2016

This is the day when Sitara has a “piano recital” program at the Childs Auditorium (Mackenzie Community School) at 6.15 pm. She played well – though nana did not go as he is recovering from his Bypass surgery. Nani went with the Mistry family and took a video of the event. Nana enjoyed watching the video in the evening . Well done Sitara.

Note: Sitara was one of the performers (out of some 18 performers) -from The Junior Music Club. Sitara Mistry’s theme was – A Knights Comes Riding, Fletcher.

Leila Fletcher – A Knight Comes Riding / Through the Enchanted Forest.

Thursday 23 June 2016

This day was a busy day – as Sitara and Sachin were to be attended to at the Mackenzie pool by their nani as Nina (kid’s mom) was busy in Pembroke and then going over to Mackey to let the pool heater technician access to the heater -for repair. Nani went over to the pool at 4.00 p.m – in the meantime nana did his 20 minute walking within the house – knowing that there will be no time in the evening to go outside for a walk. Nani brought Sitara and Sachin back from the pool at about 5.00 p.m – then joined in by their dad and mom for a few minutes at nana/nani home . The parents were going to Petawawa to a dad’s office party and thus they will be away until about 10 pm.

Nani took Sitara to the art class and Sachin to soccer after dinner and all were home just after 7.00 pm.

After that kids played with nana – Sitara playing cards – some new games she had learnt at school (like ” crazy 8 ” and also making a series of 7 cards ) . It was fun. Sachin had a shower ( according to him the best – a kind of compliment to nani) and after that spent most time at nana’s computer – playing “pokomen games”. They got picked up by their parents at about 10 pm – nana has already gone to sleep for his rest.

Friday 24 June 2016

Both Sitara and Sachin came DR home at about 6.30 pm with their parents after having dinner at a restaurant. After some rest and chit-chat (and playing cards with Sitara) – all went outdoors for a walk – as nana needs to walk two (2) times a day for about 20minutes each time – as part of recovery program – from his Heart Bypass Surgery. The whole family Kids and parents along with nani joined nana for a walk along Wolfe Road and returning on Rutherford Av back to the house.

After the walk , all rested in the living room -and then Sitara played cards with nana and and her mom. Then she played with her nani with her Barbie and palace . Sachin managed to sneak into nana’s computer room – to play his “pokomen games”.

All had good time until the family went to Mackey at about 10.00 pm.

Friday 24 June 2016

This is what Shannon e-mailed to family members (dated Friday 24 June 2016

" I had my 12-week ultrasound this morning. All looks well and the baby looks a lot more human than at the last ultrasound. Here is a profile of his or her face... pretty cute! "

The baby is looking good !

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This is what nani e-mailed to Sitara/Sachin’s mom on Friday 17 June 2016

Beautiful Kids”

On June 11 Saturday Nina and kids are at our place in the evening. When it was time to go home mom said “let’s go home,
Sachin whispers in my(nani’s) ears “I don’t want to go home, I want to stay here to help you Nani . When you are busy cooking I can help you when Nana needs anything. I thought it was so awesome for a little kid to think about the help needed at that time.

On June 16 when Nina was working at Rexall, Sunjay, Sitara and Sachin came to have dinner at our place after swimming and before
Sachin’s soccer and Sitara’s art class. At the dinner table Sitara asks me(nani) if I feel bad that her mom was not at the table for dinner. I explained that she is working. Before she left for her art class she asks if I would send a piece of Quiche for her mom home. Now that was cute.

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Sunday 26 June 2016

This is what Nina posted on her Facebook wall:

Sitara: “Mommy, me and Sachin are Perrcusion! ”
Sachin: “Yeah! We are percussion instruments… ”
Sitara: “…because we hit each other!”
Me: “Yeah…”

Thursday 30 June 2016

This day Maya and Kieran along with their parents drove over from Toronto to Deep River – to spend time with their Ba/Bapuji (after Bapuji’s recent Bypass Surgery ) – to cheer Bapuji . En Route they had stopped over at Huntsville to pay a visit to Shannon’s grandma (maternal) .

Both Sitara and Sachin were also in Deep River – for their swimming and then Sachin’s soccer at the Grouse Park (in Deep River) . This was the last day for Sahin’s soccer when they will have play with multiple teams and then each one getting a medal for playing soccer.

So all (Maya/Kieran & parents as well as Sitara/Sachin & parents) had dinner at grandparents home in Deep River. After dinner all went over to Grouse park to cheer Sachin in his soccer games.

After soccer, Sachin along with his sister Sitara went over to their home in Mackey with their parents and Maya along with Kieran (& parents) spent the night at Ba/Bapuji home.

Friday 01 July 2016

This being the Canada Day, all were meeting at Mackey (at the park at the end of the Jennings Road) to celebrate the Canada day. Maya and Kieran were driven by their parents ( after visiting their Nadia’s family in Deep River) and the grandparents drove separately . Many people were gathered to celebrate the Canada day and there were games and fun things for kids and adults . Unfortunately, the rain spoilt the fun just after lunch.

After that all gathered at Nina/Sunjay home in Mackey , played games (card and others)- Kieran was coddled by all but more so by Sitara like a big sister . All had dinner at Mackey, Maya/Kieran and parents stayed the night at Mackey and grandparents returned to Deep River at about 9.30 pm.

Here is poem nana (Bapuji) wrote to celebrate the 2016 Canada day – the poem was published in the North Renfrew Times ( newspaper in Deep river) – Wednesday 29 June 2016 edition.

O! Canada

Canada our majestic land

With heart of Gold

Welcoming

Suffering masses from far lands

So much love respect for humanity

Canada a land of smiles and cheers

from sea to sea

Canada Our majestic land

Confident relaxed nation

A God given “heaven” on earth

Many Many thanks

For being our home

Our future

We celebrate Canada Day

With great pride and joy

O! Canada

we stand on guard for thee

Pravin Shah

26 July 2016

——————-

Saturday 02 July 2016

All kids (Sitara,Sachin, Maya and Kieran) were just so with each other the whole day- they went into the Hot Tub, swam in the pool and played in the house with various toys and cards . Nana/nani (Ba/Bapuji) had come over from Deep River to be with the family. And during the day Bapuji went for his walk ( needed for recovery after the surgery) joined by Sunir ,Maya, Sachin, Nina and nani/Ba in the morning walk . During the walk, wild strawberries were picked along the path.

Sunjay/Nina had put a hammock on one side of the property – where Sitara joined her dad to enjoy the swing for the time when others were out walking with her nana .

Also after lunch, Sunjay/Nina installed a ” Tight Rope ” between two trees (on the other side of the house) – both Sitara and Sachin were excited to walk over it and had lots of fun. SunirMama also walked over -though the rope did sag due to heavy weight.

After dinner (and after Maya/ Kieran had gone to sleep) – all played card game (UNO) and once it was over Nana/nani returned to Deep River at about 10.00 pm , while kids’ Mama/Mami stayed at Mackey along with Maya/Kieran.

Sunday 03 July 2016

This day Maya/Kieran were returning to Toronto – to be driven by their parents in their silvery Subaru Outlook car .

The grandparents came over from Deep River early – as Nina/Shannon wanted photos of the grandparents with all the kids together. The photos were taken. The kids went to swim in the pool and after that all had lunch together before Maya/Kieran left for Toronto with their parents.

In the afternoon, Sitara was driven to Deep River by her mom – to visit one of her friends and spend some time there . Nana/nani returned to Deep River – leaving Sachin his dad home in Mackey – where they were busy reinstalling their Trampoline unit.

Poem for Our Grandson -Kieran – 2nd Birthday

Kieran’s 2nd Birthday was celebrated on Saturday 12 March 2016 at his parents’ home in Toronto .His Ba and Bapuji went specially to Toronto to take part in the celebration.

Here is the poem his Bapuji wrote for him :

Kieran’s 2 Yr Birthday Poem – 12 March 2016

Hey Kieran you so much sparkle

Like diamonds at night

Your siren call of joy startles all

Our child of 2 year just bubbles up

You make our joy more than double

Kieran a loving brother of Maya

Our cuddly teddy of the family

Your grandpa loves you immensely

You have wiped out each worry

You make your Grandpa feel content

The journey of life is fulfilled

You are amazing grandson

We wish you today

With lots of kisses and hugs

Happy birthday to You.

We love you ! Kieran.

Poem – Ken Philpose Birthday Party at Panchal’s home in Deep River

There was surprise party organised by Pryenka/Pankaj on Saturday 18 July 2015 at Panchal’s home to celebrate for Ken’s 69th birthday .

Here is the poem that I wrote for that occasion.

A friend is a friend

Lifelong friend

A friend indeed

A friend in need

Ken is a reliable friend

Just so without intruding

Ken remains a good friend

Fills our lives with joy

Happy Birthday, friend

Many More to come

Jackie and Pravin Shah

Pravin’s Poems – a collection of poems at one spot.

Pravin’s Poems

1) Family Poems – 20 poems

2) Social Poems – 9 poems

3) Religious Poems – 7 poems

4) Office Poems – 6 poems

Total Poems in the folder – 42 poems

Pravin’s Poems

Family Poems

1) The Magic Line – So it Seems ( at Pravin’s 65th Birthday – 8 April 2005)

2) Our dear Aunt Ruth/ Grandma ( at her 91st Birthday – 18 August 2005)

3) Sunjay’s Birthday – 12 November 2006

4) Jashoda’s (Jackie’s) Birthday – 15 November 2006

5) Haiku for Nina’s Birthday – 14 December 2006

6) Lullaby in Kiswahilli – at Baby Shower Party for Nina/Sunjay – for their first born

7) Mother’s Day – 11 May 2008

8) Father’s Day – 15 June 2008

9) “Our Precious Little Angel” – Sitara’s 1st Birthday – 5 August 2008

10) Sunir’s 30th Birthday (1 June 2009)- poem by his wife, Shannon Knights

11) ” Your Valued Hug! “ – Sitara’s 2nd Birthday – 5 August 2009

12) Sunir/Shannon – 1st Wedding Anniversary -11 October 2009 -Celebratory Poem

12) A Tribute to Baa, my mother (Kasturben)

13) “Sachinman” – Sachin’s 1st Birthday – 20 July 2010

14) ” So Sitara ” – Sitara’s 3rd Birthday – 5 August 2010

15) Sunjay’s Birth Day – 2010

16) Sachin’s 2nd Birthday -20 July 2011

17) Hi Sachin , Happy 3rd Birthday – 20 July 2012

18) Happy 5th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2012

19) Happy 1st Birthday for our angel, Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – 7 August 2012

20 ) Combined Birthday song- for Sitara (6 years) , Sachin (4 years) and Maya (2 years)

21) Happy 5th Birthday for Sachin Mistry -20 July 2014

22) Happy 7th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2014

23) Happy Birthday for Maya Shah – 7 August 2014

Family Poem – for my birthday when reached 65 years of age

April 8, 2005 —- Pravin Shah born on 8 April 1940

The Magic Line ”“ So it Seems!

The 65 years of life age is the magic imaginary line

Navigated the 65 years in life and survived intact

What a fulfillment! So it seems!

Oh! That imaginary line of dependence to independence
65 years of life rushed by with some ups and some downs

What a relief! So it seems!

This is the license to be grumpy, grouchy and irritable
An air of conquer and “I don”™t care” attitude

What a triumph! So it seems!

Sit at home and collect my CPP, OAS & free medicines?
Fewer taxes to governments for this and for that

What a freedom! So it seems!

The hidden traps unseen when crossing over the magic line
Retirement takes you away from colleagues and friends

What a radical change! So it seems!

The old abode suddenly becomes too large to manage
Your kid”™s memory is still intact though they left the coop

What, sell & move? So it seems!

The struggle to decide where to move drives you mad
Downsize, remove clutter, have a hobby goes the refrain!

What confusion! So it seems !

Organize family records, photos and memories for simplicity
Be smart and have financial plans to spend pension money

What preparedness! So it seems!

Go travel, go to Mexico, go to sun, run from the snow and cold
A constant clamor to go for vacation from friends and neighbors

What a ruckus! So it seems!

Loneliness of retirement and senior years loom large
Mental and physical ailments become the daily grind

What an existence? So it seems!

Well, going over 65 years is not that magic line or is it?
To establish priorities and clarity of purpose is the panacea

What an option! So it seems!

Remove past grudges and accept the world as it is
Keep your humour and daily exercise

What a tall order! So it seems!

Establish a spiritual bondage with the world and the Creator
Let go peacefully with satisfaction and achievement in your heart

What transformation! So it seems!

Poem by Pravin Shah, Deep River, Ontario
(approached 65 years of age on 8^th April, 2005)

Family Poem – Our Dear Aunt Ruth/Grandma – 18 August 2005

This is a poem written for our Grandma/Aunt Ruth to celebrate her 91st birthday in 2005. She is Ruth M. ; who came into our lives during 1974 when we migrated to Canada and made residence in Niagara Falls, Ontario. She became a family member and took upon herself to fill the loving Grandma position when Nina was born in 1974 and when Sunir arrived in 1979.

Our dear Aunt Ruth Our Grandma

Yonder and over, way back in 1974

Your love and charm won us over

The sound & fury of Niagara Falls

Bubbled over into frequent calls

Like fish taken to water

You took us into your bosom

Enchanted were Nina & Sunir

What hugs, kisses and care!

You are in our hearts and thoughts

The spirit emboldened and sparkled

Our hunger for family fulfilled

Our Grandma in Kenya well comforted

We wish you the best

for the years to come Looking forward to your

wisdom and warmth

Happy Birthday this August 2005

Many more to come to celebrate a century

Nina, Sunjay, Sunir,

Jackie & Pravin Shah

Forever enchanted & emboldened by love

Jackie Shah

Family Poem – Sunjay”™s Birthday (12 November 2006)

Note: Sunjay is our son-in-law , married to our daughter, Nina

Sunjay

It”™s the time for celebration

Another year on the march

Step one Step two, life goes on

Yesterday you were in Toronto

Full of rush and dash in a bustling city

No time to savour the flowers and nature

Today you are here in a rural stretch

All quiet and twinkling stars in the sky

All the time to enjoy the birds and bees

Dear Sunjay, it”™s the time for celebration

With Nina at your side, music in your ear

Let us all sing a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Many more to come!

Family Poem- Jashoda”™s (Jackie”™s) birthday – 15 November 2006

Poem for my wife”™s (Jashoda a.k.a Jackie) birthday on

Dear J.

A smile is reflected on your face

You survived the march of time

All the ups and downs washed away

Been there, done that, all to memory

Most demons slayed, life is maintained

Cobwebs of mind cleared, sunshine found

Troubles and travails of life digested

At this time in life, perched for tranquility

Kids provide music and warmth to life

Dear J, its time for celebrations

All hurdles are past with clear path ahead

Hubby around ready for retirement and tango

Put the feet up and relax

Lets us all sing a HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Many more to come!

Pravin

Family Poem – Poem (Haiku) for our daughter”™s (Nina’s) birthday on 14 December 2006

The Daughter

Nina magnificently smiles

And drips her warmth all around

Like laughter it resonates.

Standing firm, then moves

Meeting Sunjay and Sunir

Melding husband and sibling

March of Time leaves footprints

Banks of Memories abound

Happy Birthday, 2006 December 14

Haiku(s) by Dad (Pravin )

Family Poem – Baby Shower – Nina & Sunjay – for their first born ( Sitara )

A baby shower party was held on Thursday 31 May 2007 for Nina and Sunjay. The party was organized by parents and thus held at our residence. There were her friends, colleagues , and family friends of different cultural backgrounds. It was a real Canadian event.

There were baby shower games played by all. There were generous gifts for the winners. In the game for singing lullabys , many provided a good sample of their childhood lullabys. Laxmi sang a stirring lullaby right to the baby (close to Nina”™s tummy).

I as prospective Grandpa (maternal) took this opportunity to create my own lullaby in Kiswahili (a Kenyan language).

The words go as below:

jambo Jambo Habari gana

Hakuna Matata totto ndogo

Maze hapa na lala

Pravin Shah

Family Poem – Mother”™s day ( 11 May 2008 )

This year”™s mother”™s day is a special for our family. Nina (our daughter) will be with her new born baby daughter (Sitara) – and our first grandchild and celebrate her first mother”™s day with a party for her and Sunjay”™s friends at their residence in Mackay.

We , the grandparents, were away to Windsor for attending an Engineering event.

We were not quite removed from the Mother”™s Day celebration. When we travelled to Windsor on Wednesday 07 May, we stopped at Mackay to play with Sitara. Oh! she was wonderful – crawling on her fours and occasionally sitting on her feet (hunched like a “rabbit) and like in a prayer mode. She would give the most broadest of smiles and clap her tender hands in joyous burst.

Well, the Mother”™s Day was coming and what must be going in her mind. She is already a good 9 months old and recognising her mom & dad but also her grandparents well.

Here is our observation and sentiments – all crafted in the our Neon car while driving to Windsor.

Nina,

Bless your beloved heart forever Sitara

Sitara is a gift to cherish forever

A HAPPY 1st Mother”™s Day to you

dad & mom

The following is Sitara”™s sentiments as observed in my mind.

A thankful infant – an imagery !

On that Special Day

Sitara sat in her “rabbit” pose

Hunched on her feet, in a prayer mode

the heart oozing

“HAPPY MOTHER”™S DAY”

Clapping lovingly with her soft hands

With her warmest and joyous smile.

An Observant (her granddad)

Family Poem – Father”™s Day- 15 June 2008

This year”™s Father”™s Day is a special for our family (similar to the mother”™s day. Sunjay (our son-in-law) will be with his new born baby daughter (Sitara) – and our first grandchild and celebrate his first father”™s day. This is a unique father”™s day as Sitara & her mom have gone to England last week and Sunjay is joining them – arriving in England a day before the Father”™s Day and celebrating the day there amongst his family. We, Sitara’s maternal grandparents, were away to Orillia to attend a wedding and then to Toronto.

We were quite removed from the Father”™s Day celebration this year as Sunir/Shannon were in B.C while Nina, Sitara & Sunjay in U.K. Well, the Father”™s Day was coming and what must be going in Sitara”™s mind? Similar to what possibly went thru her mind when Mother”™s Day came by only a few weeks ago. She is already a good 10 months old and recognising her mom & dad but also her grandparents well. Here is our observation and sentiments (an imagery)- all crafted on Monday 9 June 2008 in Deep River by her granddad (& presented to Sunjay when he came for dinner on that Monday evening).

Sunjay,

A proud father to a charming girl

Sitara is a gift of the Gods

To be coddled for eternity

A HAPPY 1^st Father”™s Day to you.

Mom & dad – this side of the pond

A thankful infant – an imagery !

On that Special Day

Sitara waits longingly

Her visit to England with her mom

Looking out of the English window

Standing straight on her tiny legs

She croons her neck

Searching for her dad to appear

She smiles at the thought of her dad

She longs to smother dad with kisses

With her joyous smiles and sounds

She articulates in her own way

“HAPPY FATHER”™S DAY”

Clapping lovingly with her soft hands

Postscript:

Sitara celebrated her 1st Father”™s Day with her dad in Rugby, England. The place where her dad grew up. This was very fitting.

Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our little precious angel , Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.

Yes, she (that is our precious angel – Sitara) has arrived fully to the family – a one year lifespan. She can toddle and walk around. She knows her grandma & grandpa – of course she is completely attached to her parents . She knows all her toys – and she smilingly shares these with other kids who do come to visit.

“ Our Precious Little Angel ”

Your wonderful smile and sweet cooing
Always charming and constant wooing

Sitara, you are a precious bundle of joy
The heart ruptures with a delightful ahoy!

One year to you is a long time to mature
For us it is the best of time in nature

Crawling all around exploring intensely
The world opens up to you so profusely

A baby born to explore has started walking
The granny goes stalking her all around

Your toys scattered on the floor for play
Tiny books and bells sing hooray

A charming granddaughter whose claim
An excellent link in the family chain

Sunir and Shannon go ga ga over you
The whole world goes ra ra around you

You are the “love of our hearts”
Enchanting “notes of music”™ so smart

Sitara, we wish you a very Happy 1^st Birthday

“Our precious little angel” to cherish for a lifetime

Love

your nana & nani

Note: Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

Family Poem – Poem by his wife Shannon on Sunir”™s 30th Birthday

I recently came upon an e-mail from Shannon dated June 02, 2009 which says:

” Hi everyone,
I thought I would pass along the poem I wrote for Sunir”™s 30th birthday, which I recited at our BBQ party last weekend.”

Shannon

__________________________________

Speaking to you as a loving wife,
I”™d like to tell you about the man in my life.

In Niagara Falls in 1979,
Sunir Shah entered the family line.

In Hamilton he spent his early days,
Before moving to Deep River for life”™s next phase.

He learned computer programming at age four,
He”™s a smart guy; who could ask for more?

He went to Carleton for his first degree,
In math and computer science, we”™d all agree.

After university, he headed to Europe,
Far from the land of maple syrup.

Fortunately for me, he then decided to go,
To do his Master”™s in Toronto.

Introduced at the Madison by Sunjay Mistry,
We hit it off and the rest is history.

A wedding in the fall, sealed with a kiss,
Has been the start of marital bliss.

He”™s like pecan pie, my favourite treat:
He”™s warm and brown, nutty and sweet.

So join me in celebrating Sunir”™s first thirty years,
Please raise your glass and all say Cheers!

Shannon Knights

Family Poem – 2nd Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.

Our Sitara became 2 year old on Wednesday 5th August 2009 . Her nana (maternal Grandfather) has written a small poem for her to celebrate her 2nd birthday.

Your valued hug!

Twinkle Twinkle little Sitara
Our precious twinkling Star

Mummy”™s Teapot, daddy”™s Bhajiuu
Nana”™s Thapli and angel to nani

Sweet, Sweet Sitara, our Miss Muffet
quietly sat on her tuffett with a smile

A joy to your baby brother Sachin
His sister planting Hugs and kisses

Our girl is now grown to two year old
We all enjoy her boldness all around

Your dancing feet with laughter
a fable already afoot for fun

So Happy Birthday our two-year-old lovable
your hugs and kisses valued highly by us all.

We love you!

Note: 1) Her baby brother, Sachin was born on 20 July 2009

2) Their parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

Family Poem – Sunir/Shannon – 1st Wedding Anniversary

Today, 11 October 2009 is the first (1st) Wedding Anniversary of our son – Sunir”™s wedding to Shannon.

They are in Europe at this time as they went there to celebrate the occasion with Shannon”™s sister Erica .

””””””””””””””””””””””

I wrote a poem for this occasion which I sent them by electronic mail to them to-day.

Celebrating our son Sunir”™s 1st Wedding Anniversary

Our happiness multiplied many-folds when you were born
Anxiety evaporated when your sister Nina welcomed you with a smile
The joy effervesced when you took to robots and computers

We jumped with ecstasy at your first job at 16 and gone to the university
This combo remained steady all thru your university life which mesmerised us all
You are the twin twinkling star with your sister, both illuminating the family

The “empty nest” syndrome hit us the most when you were gone from home
You were our focus and delight for many years when your sister was away
Those days are now gone to our memory lane and forever reminisced with glee

Then we heard the thunder of a young man”™s love – going from Toronto to Kingston
A four-year rumble ended with a bang and Shannon brought a rainbow display
Your wedding day October 11 ,2008 is etched in our heart bringing ecstasy par excellent

The young son transformed to a young man all ready to take on the world
A supporting charming and graceful wife at your side, what a pair
We can weave many dreams and savour all the possibilities for future to unfold.

Both of you along with Nina, Sunjay, Sitara and Sachin are a constellation in our life
This is all we want in our life whatever years we have to enjoy the sparkle
We pray your and Shannon”™s happiness forever and ever.

dad

Family Poem – A tribute to Baa , my mother (Kasturben)

A memorial Prayer (Puja) for our mother (Kasturben)

– passed away in Nairobi, Kenya on Saturday 24 April 2010

Prayer Location: our home in Deep River, Ontario, Canada

When: Friday 14 May 2010 at 8.00 p.m

””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””””

A tribute to Baa , my mother

Namaste Pranam Baa – I bow to your graciousness

Your sacrifice and forever a smile on your face

””””-

We respect your spirit of service

also the spirit of responsibility that goes with it

””””-

We understand your circumstances and extended family bond

but never felt left out when growing up in your bosom

””””-

We soaked up your love and care all these years

Your magnanimity and self-control are etched in our hearts

””””””

We had a shelter to come to whenever we hit a storm

Your words of wisdom always carried us through difficult times.

”””””””“

We have you in our collective memory which is deep

May you rest in peace – Namaste Pranam Baa

””””””-

Further notes:

This Mother”™s Day (11 May 2012) was a special day – as it came just a few days after my mother (Kasturben) passed away in Kenya (on Saturday morning – 6.10 am Nairobi time – 24th April 2010) .

The kids – Sitara and Sachin along with their parents Nina/Sunjay as well as Sunir/Shannon had gathered in Toronto when we were there – so we all can have a Memorial Service (Puja) for her at the Hindu Temple in Toronto.

Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our precious little grandson, Sachin (born on 20 July 2009)

Our SachinMan – poem written for celebrating Sachin’s birthday on 20 July 2010

Our grandson, Sachin, became 1year old today He along with his sister , Sitara, and his parents are presently on a visit to England. He & Sitara are enjoying the company of their grandma (paternal) and their dad”™s sister , brother-in- law and Yashmin (their cousin sister).

I have written a small poem to celebrate his birthday . Here it is:

SachinMan

Your mischievous smile and twinkle in the eyes
Do win hearts every moment

Your satiated demeanour and contented yawn
Brings joy and happiness to our hearts

Your crawling and standing up to “cruise” along a sofa
Bring delight to our hearts

Every week of your growth in mental and motor skills
Fills our hearts with delight

You do recognise and play with your own toys
This cheers your sister Sitara to no end

Now that you are 1 yr old , a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY
From the bottom of our collective hearts

Our SachinMan our linkage to future along with Sitara
We wish you many years of joy and success.

nana , nani and the whole family

Note: 1) His parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

2) His sister, Sitara

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 276494_132914436791556_117185_n

Family Poem – 3rd Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter.

Sitara turned 3 (years old) on 5th August 2010. Here is the poem to celebrate the occasion.

So Sitara !

So Sitara, you are now 3 years old
all perky and being bold

So your charm has blossomed
which has floated us to heaven

So your chatter has bloomed
which brings us jollies and prattle

So you now share the dinner table
which bring smiles all around

So Sitara, you are now a big sister
which makes Sachin a baby mister

So you are like a fresh flower
which spreads scent of affection

So you are petite and beautiful
which is joyful to our eyes

So Sitara, you are now 3 year old
all confident and our precious

So, a happy birthday to our love
We wish you the best, our love

nana, nani & the whole family

Note: 1) Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

2) Her little brother, Sachin

Family Poem – Sunjay’s 2010 Birthday (12 November 2010)

The world spins

and makes us go around

with arms around the family

the joy spurts forth

Happy Birthday

Family Poem – 3rd Birthday – our precious little grandson, Sachin (born on 20 July 2009)

Our 3 year old Grandson (20 July 2012) – Sachin Mistry

Hi Sachin, Happy 3rd Birthday!

This year brings you to a full 3 year old

All playful and vibrant your normal cheerful self

That keeps your grandpa in spirit all time

How thankful we “nana-nani” are

That you were born to be in our lives

Everyday becomes a joyful day for us

When we see you and Sitara visiting us.

When you open your birthday gifts

We know what a gift you are.

Happy Birthday!

nana and nani and the whole family

Note: 1) His parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

2) His sister, Sitara

Family Poem – 5th Birthday – our precious little angel, Sitara (born on 5th August 2007) – our Granddaughter

Our Granddaughter Sitara Mistry”™s 5th Birthday ( 5 August 2012 )

A charming girl all 5 years old

Love oozes out of your every move

Your touch is healing and soothing

Your smile washes out all our trepidations

You are an angel with sweet demeanour

You captivate all with your playful activities

Your hugs and kisses are all we want

Your smooth elegant moves touch our souls

You lift our spirits when we see you

You give solace to our aging hearts

Your nana/nani are blessed to have you

Our lives are fulfilled to know you

A Very Special Happy Birthday to you

Dear Sitara we all love you so much.

nana/nani ( maternal grandparents)

Note: 1) Her parents – Nina Shah & Sunjay Mistry

2) Her little brother, Sachin

Family Poem – 1st Birthday – our newest precious little angel, Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – born on 7 August 2011 – our Granddaughter.

Maya Jashoda Knights Shah – her 1st Birthday ( 7 August 2012 )

Our dear Maya much playful

Always able to go places civilly

A ready traveller with aplomb

Calm but witty with sparkles of teeth

One year on this earth all playful

Inquisitive enquiring mind with pizzazz

Plundering pantry and cupboards

Crawling cuddling sweet baby

Maya , this is your first birthday

Your toddler days are very near

Pretty soon running all over the house

Our detective on the prowl

Your first birthday is special delight

Your Ba and Bapuji are full of pride

Our adorable Baby, cute from head to toe

We wish you an incredible birthday !

Ba /Bapuji – paternal grandparents

Note: 1) Her parents – Shannon Knights & Sunir Shah

Family Poem – Combined Birthday Song for All Three Grandchildren – 2013

Here is a combined birthday poem written to celebrate all three (3) grandchildren”™s birthday in 2013. This was recited by all those present at a combined Birth Day party on Thursday ( 2013 July 25) at grandparents home in Deep River.

1) Sitara – 5 August – 6 years old

2) Sachin – 20 July – 4 years old

3) Maya – 7 August – 2 years old

One , two, Tickle my Heart

One , two, Tickle my Heart

Three , Four, knock at the door

Five, Six , hug Sitara, Sachin, Maya

Seven, Eight, Sitara skiing

Nine. Ten , Sachin Swimming

Eleven, Twelve , Maya playing hide & seek

Thirteen, Fourteen, all three a-bonding

Fifteen, Sitara 6 years August 5th

Sixteen , Sachin 4 years July 20th

Seventeen , dear Maya 2 years August 7th

Eighteen, love them the most

Nineteen, Twenty, my plate”™s brimming with joy & pride

One, two, Tickle my Heart

Its 2013, Happy Birthday to all my dear grandchildren

Grandpa in Deep River, ON

Sitara”™s nana

Sachin”™s nana

Maya”™s Bapuji

Family Poem – Happy 5th Birthday for Sachin Mistry -20 July 2014

Our smiling and playful boy

Our smiling and playful boy

turning to be 5 years old

taking all in his fold

Our smiling and playful boy

scoring a soccer goal

a role bestowed by destiny

Our smiling and playful boy

building his toys from Lego pieces

hiding in a fort built from quilts

Our smiling and playful boy

rushing to hug his nana

blushing with love from his nani

Our smiling and playful boy

Year 2014 makes you adventurous

Exploring and inventing games

Our smiling and playful boy

Oh! The loving brother Sachin

Sitara takes you further

Sachin , Happy Birthday to you.

by nana

Family Poem – Happy 7th Birthday for Sitara Mistry – 5 August 2014

Our Sitara is 7 year old

She is growing

So bubbly and Cheerful

Always gracious and caring

Her helpful nature

Just wins hearts

A mind so scientific

Grasping details easily

An eye for painting

Draws figures so telling

Sitara has to be around

Our hearts beep joy

Wants books read to her

She makes nana thrilled

Her smiles so captivating

Silent love enthuse all

Sachin so feels loved by her

We are very proud Sitara

A very Happy Birthday to you

We rejoice immensely.

nana

Family Poem – Happy Birthday for Maya Shah – 7 August 2014

A sprite in her feet

Such a bright smile

Maya makes a splash

Our cottage going girl

She skips and jumps

Kieran on a swing

Brother feels the touch

Maya is in heaven

Three year old Maya

Our sunshine ! Ever

She joins Grandma fishing

Kieran roots for best wishes

Our hearts flutter in joy

A song vibrates in the sky

Happy Birthday Maya

Many more to come

Bapuji

Pravin’s Poems

Social Poems

1) New Year Party Song ( 1987 ) – At Dr. Chatterjee’s house in Pembroke

2) Spring ( 30 March 1987 ) – Toast to Spring at a Toastmasters Meeting

3) War in Iraq – 2003

4) Christmas 2003 – Toast offered at Philipose Residence in Deep River

5) Ode To Chatterjees on their move to Toronto – party at Knights Columbus Hall,

Pembroke 21 March 2004

6) Memorial To Mrs. Ulka Sutradar – 5 November 2005 – by Jackie Shah

7) Destiny – 7 January 2007 ( when getting ready for retirement)

8) Retirement – 10 April 2007 ( just after retirement)

9) Celebrating a baby’s birth – 15 April 2007 at Mehta Residence in Pembroke.

Social Poem – New Year Party Song – (1987) – at Dr. Chatterjee”™s House in Pembroke, Ontario sang on 1st January 1987 party.

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 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

P.T.O

New Sports New School
Deep River New Children
Nina and Sunir”™s Amalgam
Bring Joy and Happiness

Chorus

Happy 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

Social Poem – Spring

( written 30 March 1987 – for offering a Toast at a Toastmasters meeting )

Spring has arrived and with that
We hear birds chipping,
Snow melting and sound of
Children in the streets.
What an exhilarating sight!

Spring resurrects hope and
Restores humanity in our hearts
It”™s a time for renewal and a
Time to come out of winter hibernation
What an exhilarating feeling!

“So today my toast to SPRING”
To SPRING!

Social Poem – War in Iraq – 2003

What a spin?

Tick Tock! Tick Tock! The clock is ticking.

The war drums are drumming and Apaches in the air.

All the battleships are lined up. Army is on the move all

around the enemy country. But then the “Coalition of the Willing”

is spinning the wheels. The newly minted Super Power is huffing

and puffing but alas! Cannot make up its mind as looking for

some other ragtag army (like in Afghanistan) to carry the burden.

The United Nations, NATO and EU are the first victims while the dictator is having a chuckle!

What a predicament!

The terrorists are gathering all over or that”™s how it seems!

The borders around the Super Power are controlled like never before

and duct tapes and plastic sheeting are coming to the rescue.

Are Americans ready to carry the burden single-handedly to remove this maniacal dictator?

France, Germany and Belgium joined by likes of Russia and China are spinning for peace.

This is all and good but who is hearing the anguish and cry of Shias & Kurds

and other Iraqis who have seen no peace but torture and pain from this dictator.

Tick Tock! Tick Tock! The clock is ticking.

The war drums are drumming and Apaches in the air.

The world seems in derision and a torturous spin!

Social Poem – Toast (Poem) for Christmas 2003

The following toast was offered at Ken’s residence (Deep River, Ontario, Canada) when celebrating Christmas.

Toast for Christmas Day Thursday December 25, 2003

Its that time again when we meet at Philipose”™s house

There are no trumpets & bugles but rousing welcome

Christmas Day in Deep River with snow around

Tinsel and ornaments on Christmas Tree bright!

Jingle Bells! Jingle Bells! Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer!

Silent Night and all Christmas corals Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

It”™s the season to be jolly and cheerful all smiles around

Caring and sharing we rejoice the birth of Christ in a manger

Gifts and hugs laughter all jostling about with each other

With twinkle in the eyes warmth in spirit we sing praise

Jesus brought a paradigm shift in the way man relates to others

The call of “eye for an eye” is replaced by “Love thy Neighbors”

Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Mandela, Mother Teresa

All Understood great message of love, sacrifice and forgiveness

Let us raise a toast to this Christmas Day and seek forgiveness

We offer hand of friendship to each other for governess

Ken and their offspring Ray and Leena celebrate tonight

We raise a Toast to this family for sharing their joy with us

Social Poem – Ode To Chatterjees on their move to Toronto

Dr. Sadhan Chatterjee and Leena Chatterjee and their son Sudeep and daughter Sumita

The Ode delivered at the farewell party held on Sunday, March 21, 2004 for Chatterjee”™s at Knights of Columbus Hall in Pembroke by Deep River/Pembroke East Indian Community.

Chatterjees, known for their smiles

Smiles:

Smile for a while

As if it”™s in Chatterjees style

Spreading many a mile

And lasting a while

Will gather in style

All through one smile

Chatterjees, who exude warmth

A Friend:

It takes more than caring

To be a real friend;

The nature of friendship;

Requires a blend of warmest compassion

To reach and to comfort

The way that Chatterjees do

That”™s their kind of friendship

Is priceless to all

Chatterjees, one kind of a people

Special Family:

Writing about life

Friends helping thru strife

Dependable when needed

Chatterjees are one of a kind

Chatterjees, who are huggable

Inspired Hug:

Have you ever

Watched Chatterjees,

Eyeing each other as “Dost”

Indian hearts sharing hugs

They help inspire

Such a simple verse P.T.O

Chatterjees, our great support

Miss You:

Those of us who moved to

Deep River/Pembroke corridor

Over the years one by one

In a trickle from Toronto

Or a bunch from Whiteshell

Chatterjees, a “Welcome Wagon”

All music, parties and sunshine

A warm laughter and support

Smile and welcome, we will miss

Departure to Toronto leaves a void

AH! That”™s what life is about

Leena, Sadhan, Sudeep and Sumita

Jackie & Pravin wish you the best

Keep your smiles and warmth

Toronto will be yours in no time.

Social Poem – Memorial to Mrs. Ulka Sutradar – Sunday 05 November 2005

Memorial words by Jackie Shah on the anniversary of passing away of Mrs. Ulka Sutradar

Our lives go on without you!

Our Lives go on without you

But nothing is the same

When someone speaks your name

Sad are the hearts

as we love and miss you

Your heart was kind and true

The special years will not return

Our memories are forever

When we were all together

We had laughter and fun together

Today we, but weep alone

Ulka, caring, loving and joyful

One who lived for happiness

One who shared happiness

You spread your happiness to us

We send our happy sentiments

of fond memories to your departed soul

Ulka, We care, we weep and we remember

Jackie Shah

Social Poem – Destiny – ( written on 07 January 2007 )

Destiny

Meandering thru life

Picking up this and that

Bobbing high and low

Going sideways

Here I am wondering where I am

What for and why?

Kids have flown the coop

Empty quiet living room

Internet contact to the world

Just meandering thru life

Someday my ship will arrive

That I guess is the destiny.

Social Poem – Retirement

( written on 10 April 2007 – just after my – Pravin’s – retirement )

Retirement

”™Tis a moment to savour
Day of retirement is cheerful

The colleagues hissed yonder
You will be missed, what a yodel!

My heart shudders to let go
There is wobble in the legs

Transition with mist all around
“To do list” navigates the journey

Retirement is fun & frolic
If you know what I mean

Nature abound with bees and flowers
The pitter-patter of young ones

The meandering on life”™s highway
Travel my friend with your loved ones

The end journey needs to be clear
Retirement days will be chaotic

Keep your cool
Retirement”™s a drool

”˜Tis an idea which is an illusion
“Belief in you” brings the salvation

Social Poem – Celebrating a baby’s birth – Diya Jyoti (Avanish – dad & Nisha – mom)

We were invited to participate in a Puja (prayer) gathering at Subhash M. residence in Pembroke on Sunday 2007 April 15. Subhash and his charming wife Prabhaji were celebrating the arrival of their first grandchild (Diya Jyoti). Diya Jyoti was born one month ago to Avanish & Nisha (proud parents) . Avanish is the eldest son of Subhash/Prabhaji. Many Congratulations to the new parents.

I was asked to prepare something for the Puja (blessings for the young one and also some words for the Senior).

Well it so happened that Subhash/Prabhji”™s newly wedded younger son (Rahul) and his wife (Sangita) had also come from Boston for the occasion. Many Congratulations to the newly wed.

My conversion to Pujari status came inadvertently as I perfomed blessings Sutras (Hindu prayers to Gods) – all in English. The appropriate Sutras fell in my domain from search in the Internet to various Hindu websites and accidently picking up right Sutras for the occasion.

I also developed a Couplet/Poem for the baby. This is embedded in the text below which I delivered at the Puja.

A Couplet/Poem (by Pravin Shah)

A baby”™s love is freely given.
Diya Jyoti”™s heart bears no preconceived prejudices
She is pure and innocent in her chuckles and smiles.

A baby”™s love is freely given.
Diya Jyoti brings hope, love and joy to all
She is an epitome of calm and cheer in our lives

A baby”™s love is freely given.
Thank you Lord for our precious little one
Help us to relish the blessings you have given us
A baby”™s love is freely given.

Amen

Pravin’s Poems

Religious Poems

1) Search Search Little Person ( Tune: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star )

2) Violence Violence Go Away ( Tune: Rain Rain Go Away )

3) With Respect and Love for All life ( Tune: Happy Wanderer )

4) Arhat Oh Arhat ( Tune: Merrily We Roll Along )

5) Raa, Raa, ParsvaNath ( Tune: Baa Baa Black Sheep)

6) Simple Man Met Mahavir ( Tune: Simple Simon Met a Pieman )

7) Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down ( Tune: London Bridge is Falling Down)

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( Tune: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star )

Search Search Little Person

Search Search Little Person

How I wonder What You are

Over Jainism All Life is Sacred

Like a Glory All again

How I wonder What You are.

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( Tune: Rain Rain Go Away )

Violence Violence Go Away

Violence Violence Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to Live

Jealousy Jealousy Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to be Free

Greed Greed Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want to Share

Anger Anger Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want Total Peace

Karma Karma Go Away
Return Not Another Day
Little Brother
Little Sister
Little Children Want Salvation

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( 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

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( 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

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( Tune – Baa Baa Black Sheep )

Raa , Raa , ParsvaNath

Raa , Raa , ParsvaNath ,
Twenty Third Tirthankar

Teacher , Teacher , There are
Four Jain Vows

One for Non-violence
One for the Truth
One for Non-possession
and One for Honesty

These are vows that
bring great salvation.

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( Tune: Simple Simon Met a Pieman )

Simple Man Met Mahavir

Simple Man Met Mahavir
Going to The Forest
Says Simple Man to Mahavir
Let Me Test You Are Resolute

Says Mahavir to Simple Man
Show Me First Your Follies

Says Simple Man to Mahavir
Indeed I Have many Jollies

Simple Man Went A-bashing
For Mahavir to Whine

But All the Effort He Had Put
Brought in From Mahavir Shine

Simple Man Went To Look
If Mahavir had any Passion

He Hammered Nails In His Ears
Which Made Poor Man See Compassion.

Religious Poem – Jain Song composed in 1984-85

( Tune – London Bridge is Falling Down )

Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down

Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down
Tears Down, Tears Down

Chandan Bala Holding Tears Down
My Dear Lord – o –

Shaven Head and Tied in Chains
Tied in Chains , Tied in Chains

Shaven Head and Tied in Chains
My Dear Lord – o –

Holding Bland Food in Her Hands
In Her Hands , In Her Hands

Holding Bland Food in Her Hands
My Dear Lord – o –

Praying Mahavir Will Come Around
Come Around , Come Around

Praying Mahavir Will Come Around
My Dear Lord – o –

Compassion Flows From Mahavir”™s Eyes
Mahavir”™s Eyes , Mahavir”™s Eyes

Compassion Flows From Mahavir”™s Eyes
My Dear Lord – o –

Food Eaten Mahavir Says Soothing Words
Soothing Words , Soothing Words

Food Eaten Mahavir Says Soothing Words
My Dear Lord – o –

Chandan Bala is Liberated
Liberated , Liberated

Chandan Bala is Liberated
My Dear Lord – o –

Pravin’s Poems

Office Poems

1) Ode to a wonderful team of Site Operations – Friday 13 December, 2002

2) Christmas 2002 – Tribute to Facility Space Techies

3) Office Christmas Party – 2003 – It’s that time again! Challenges galore!

4) Christmas Time in 2004

5) CRL Infrastructure Blues – Haiku written on 20 January 2005

6) Change is Constant – AECL Mantra – December 2005

Office Poem – Ode to a wonderful team of Site Operations (for Christmas 2002) – a great team does not buckle under – written on Friday 13 December 2002

Rusted pipes let off steam

Ducts collapsed, air leaked, basement flooded

The team huddled together like a football team

Gave battle cry, all sinews and brawn

No matter what and how many breakdowns

Oh! The great team does not buckle under.

Then came green glycol slimy slope

The team slipped and slithered all moaning

But balance maintained on the floor

The cupboard is empty shouted the seniors

RFAs, SPG notes, PowerPoint graphs

Oh! The great team does not buckle under

Randy changed shirts everyday chasing mirages

Donna donned Graphs and colored beads

Rankin went merrily turning valves and controls

Sue built cottage, Pravin replaced roofs out of thin air

Jed, Jay and Dave tiptoed into snow and diesel fuel

Oh! The great team does not buckle under

One step forward and two steps back go the progress

The rusting site services have met the match

Together the team fights all demons and deprivations

Oh! Those tiresome days and tedious, thankless tasks

A smile creeps over in my heart, a great bunch of guys

Oh! The great team does not buckle under

Office Poem – Christmas 2002

TRIBUTE TO FACILITY SPACE TECHIES

The old Company convulsed like there is no tomorrow

Managers shifted shouting hurrah to play musical chairs

Re-organization galore! Inside out and upside down

The facility group tittered on the moves, furniture and all

Landlord cried, forking invisible money for painting and carpets

She goes this way and that way, all giggles and false smiles

All in the name of color coding and copious customer connivance

Space lady shrieked joyous shout and “secured” poor slob to a cubicle!

Space selection! Devious and dubious, brought joy to her planning

Permits issued, Oh! Never mind that cubicles transformed to cottages

The reorganized site soothed happiness with mismatch all over

INFORM website, SIMs, CAFM all bringing Geek goodies galore

Midnight ghosts of the past brought moves back to the fore, Yikes!

Space costs! Space costs! Shouted the Facility Planner with no response

She trundled on, lifting the burden stoically and strutting her poise

A tribute to the Facility Space Techies who keep customers twirling happy.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Office Poem – Office Christmas Party ”“ 2003 – It’s that time again ! Challenges galore!

Date: 16^th December, 2003 Location: Best Westin in Pembroke

It”™s that time again

Time for celebration! Time for reflection!

Challenges galore!

Pipe Breaks, flooding in B300 & Library building

B459 ha! ha! A by-product of Customer Survey

Embarrassing poor upkeep in B456 and broken B600 ventilation

B 138 & 466 shower water quality, all turbid & foul

From howling Customer frustrations & frowns

Believe me! A “success” in sight at the end of circular movement

Challenges galore!

Deferred! Deferred! Projects, UERs Corrective actions

Water! Water! Everywhere but nary to drink

Site Water on “tread mill” of justifications & Issue Notes

Discussions going nowhere but alas! somewhere

Management support for Road Map for Site Potable Water

Believe me! I see a “golden pot” at the end of diffused rainbow

Challenges galore!

Go there! Go where! Go! Go! Get resources and support, Go!

Tap into available opportunities to use Project funds for staffing

Site Operations staff all wonderful, hard working & committed

Who, at times, suffer my “foot in mouth” & loopy jokes

My apologies! Sincere and from bottom of my heart

Believe me! You are a warm and supportive team for confronting challenges

Challenges galore!

Bravo! For our committed focus and achievements during the year

Let us heave a collective sigh for success over the challenges

Parking areas done, roofs replaced, showers updated and lines repaired

The collective team still strong and vibrant with “team spirit” intact

Merry Christmas! Very many happy returns of the season!

Believe me! I wish you all the merriest and well-deserved holidays

Challenges galore!

It”™s that time again

Time for reflection! Time for celebration!

Challenges galore!

Office Poem – Christmas time in 2004 – written on 08 December 2004

This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!

By golly! Aging infrastructure and aging self

Spirit wants to fly and kiss the sky

I say “ Fly, fly ” but not so lucky with bloated tummy

Walking is wobbly with no fire in the belly

Plodding to the parking area with super effort mainly

New electrical power projects jab and energize the torso

You can make it! You can make it! Goes the chorus.

Sweet 65 and yet reporting for service

Change one master for another, wow! What a choice!

This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!

By golly! More vitamins pills and visits to doctors

Organizational change mutated Site Operations to ISS

Countless tentacles enveloping the managerial scorecard BS

Group wants to renovate and upgrade superstructure

All say yes but not so lucky with bloated bureaucracy

Corroded pipes and collapsed building roofs, all tossed

Find fire deficiencies! Regulator is coming! Goes the chorus

This is the time to be jolly! Ha!! Ha!!

By golly! More babble & cackle round the table

This is the time to be jolly!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Count your blessings silly!

It”™s time for cheer and sharing

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Office Poem – CRL Infrastructure Blues — Haiku written on 20 January 2005

1) Plant Road snaking to CRL

cracked wavy surface

Destroyed morale!

2) Researchers lab at CRL

The leaky roof

Tests ruined by rain!

3) Steam line hissing

Condensate pissing

Environment not happy!

4) Transformer T4 hissing

Alarm blaring oil leak

6000 gallons to hit the ground

5) Tap Water restricted

Bottled water to drink

How can it be a first class lab!

6) Primary Sewage Plant chug along

contaminates spouting in

Sludge hits the press

7) New bulding 701 is up

But foul air toppled lady employee

So much for work environment !

8) Honey, wake up!

Is the aging employee in the groove?

Or, the infrastructure falling apart?

9) The CNSC eyes

audit everywhere

This year!

10) Staff Churning is here!

Manager is in tether

His move to new office on atreadmill!

11) The new ISS team has landed

with All king”™s men assembled

Humpty Dumpty will get on the wall !

Office Poem – ” Change Is Constant “ written on December 2005

Not typed in the Blog.

Welcome – poem for our Kieran – ” Our baby blue “

Below is a poem for welcoming our prescious grandson born on Wednesday 12 March 2014 – parents are Shannon Knights (mom) and our son Sunir Shah (dad )

Written by his paternal granddad (Bapuji) on 2 April 2014.

” Our baby blue “

It came out of blue

a jolt in the morning

phone blaring the arrival

Our baby boy Kieran

He rolled with a smile

twinkled his blue eyes

mom went ecstatic

birthing pain vanished

a sweet boy in hand

Grannies pirouette

high up in the air

baby blue delight

dad dreaming future

a friend in the making

a beautiful gift of God

Little sister went ga ga

sharing joy with toys

Our baby blue ahoy

Halleluiah Halleluiah

Welcome ya Kieran

2014 an enchanting year

A small bubbly child

So precious and sweet,

Has come into your lives

Bapuji

COMBINED BIRTHDAY SONG FOR ALL THREE GARNDCHILDREN – 2013

Here is a poem written to celebrate all three (3) grandchildren’s birthday in 2013. This was recited by all those present at a combined Birth Day party on Thursday ( 2013 July 25) at grandparents home in Deep River.
1) Sitara Mistry – 5 August – 6 years old

2) Sachin Mistry – 20 July – 4 years old

3) Maya Shah – 7 August – 2 years old

COMBINED BIRTHDAY SONG FOR ALL THREE GARNDCHILDREN – 2013

One , two, Tickle my Heart

One , two, Tickle my Heart

Three , Four, knock at the door

Five, Six , hug Sitara, Sachin, Maya

Seven, Eight, Sitara skiing

Nine. Ten , Sachin Swimming

Eleven, Twelve , Maya playing hide & seek

Thirteen, Fourteen, all three a-bonding

Fifteen, Sitara 6 years August 5th

Sixteen , Sachin 4 years July 20th

Seventeen , dear Maya 2 years August 7th

Eighteen, love them the most

Nineteen, Twenty, my plate’s brimming with joy & pride

One, two, Tickle my Heart

Its 2013, Happy Birthday to all my dear grandchildren

Grandpa in Deep River, ON

Sitara’s nana

Sachin’s nana

Maya’s Bapuji

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

This entry was posted in Family/Self, Jainism, Miscellaneous Musings!, Poems-Birthdays on January 10, 2013 by pravinshah.

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

This entry was posted in Family/Self, Jainism, Miscellaneous Musings!, Poems-Birthdays on January 10, 2013 by pravinshah.

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Category Archives: Poems-Birthdays

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

Experience an interactive adventure featuring 24 new-media exhibits from around the world.

Beautiful Kids”

Love

your nana & nani

Destiny

Social Poem – Retirement

( written on 10 April 2007 – just after my – Pravin’s – retirement )

Retirement

Office Poem – Ode to a wonderful team of Site Operations (for Christmas 2002) – a great team does not buckle under – written on Friday 13 December 2002

cracked wavy surface

Environment not happy!

4) Transformer T4 hissing

Alarm blaring oil leak

6000 gallons to hit the ground

audit everywhere

Beautiful Kids”