Category Archives: Uncategorized

Kieran’s 4th Birthday – 12 March 2018 – An extended Haiku

For celebrating Kieran’s 4th birthday -his Bapuji wrote the following Haiku and sent it first by e-mail   on his birthday (celebrated in Toronto) and sent a copy with a Birthday Card . Note” Kiearn has just been to Jamiaca with family for week and returned back only last Thursday.

Here it is:

An extended Haiku for Kieran on his 4th Birthday

Kieran’s 4th Birthday – 12 March 2018

 

My   charming grandson

All tanned from Jamaica Beach

Lets party for   your birthday.

 

Love you for your jabbering

Love you for your broad smiles

Llove you for your politeness.

 

You will sparkle the world

You will be a popular dude

More so – You will be a great brother

 

Happy Birthday – our future

Many more to come

Totally embraced by all.

 

Bapuji

Christmas 2017 – Christ’s message

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

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

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

Article:

 

Christmas   2017 – Christ’s message.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Recent Visit – Oshwal Center in London, U.K. and the Jain Temple

The following article i wrote re: my impressions of the Oshwal Center and JainTemple in LOndon, U.K. – which we recently visited – during the month of September 2017.     The article was sent to the Editor of Oshwal News (published in Londion U.K.) – for a possibility of publishing this article in the newsmagazine.       So far I have not heard from the Editor – of the status of the article.

8  October 2017

Our Recent Visit – Oshwal Center in London, U.K. and the Jain Temple

We recently visited the Oshwal Center in London, U.K. and the Jain Temple situated at Potters Bar, Hertfordshire   when my wife and I had an occasion to travel to the U.K. from Canada.

It’s a fabulous place and worth a visit. We in   fact had visited (during our stay in London) the Oshwal Center (& the JainTemple) two (2) times for different programmes. The first one was on   SamvatsarÄ« Lunch day on Sunday 03 September 2017 and the second time was during a Snatra Puja at the Jain Temple on Friday 15 September 2017.

We found the Jain Temple to be very pretty and appealing. During the SamvatsarÄ« Lunch day, we were a tad bit early – so it afforded us time to go over to the Temple – offer our prayers and then went on the grounds to enjoy the garden and many different well carved   ” stambhs – pillars.

The Jain Temple

The Jain Temple is a “Shikhar Bandhi” Jain Temple and is popular with artistic carving.   The inner sacred sanctum houses idols of 3 Tirthankaras   (spiritual teachers of the dharma – righteous path) .   Mul nayak is Mahavir Swami; on his left is Parshvanath and on his right is Adishvara.

There is a ” Hand with Ahimsa Chkara ” on the ground along one side of the Temple. It is called the Ahimsa Hand (Jain Hand) and symbolizes non-violence. It is a right hand shown facing upwards (fingers up), with the thumb slightly pointed out.

Some believe it to be the Saṃsāra, a “wheel of life” on which there are depictions of birth, life, death, and reincarnation/death, along with the actions and consequence”™s of one”™s past, present, and future (Jain Hand).

Over upper level ground – a magnificent grove of trees is planted – some   52 trees – representing 52 villages of Halar.  Note: Halar is a county/borough in Saurashtra , Gujarat, India – from where originally members of our Visa Oshwal community   migrated – about a century ago – to go overseas mostly to Bombay and then to Kenya & other parts of East Africa .

Each tree is planted on its own separated from each other by a fair few feet and each tree is surrounded by a concrete round platform   ( ” Otlo “- a Gujarati term )   depicting the name of a village and donors who have contributed funds towards planting that particular tree & platform.

This Temple is gaining reputation for an excellent place for pilgrimage (by Jain visitors to London) and also by tourists   interested in knowing/understanding other culture/religion/tradition of the world.

The carved artistic temple along with well laid out and spacious garden provides the peaceful and solemn ambience for those seeking spiritual experience.

Samvatsari   Lunch

The Samvatsari lunch was held at the main building – utilizing all the halls   (and a marquee)- as to accommodate many participants who had come to share this joyous but somber day in the Jain calendar.

The   organization was superb, the enthusiasm and caring attitude of the volunteers were exemplary and worth to be proud of. The crowd was well behaved and remained in queue where so needed. We   stood in the queue and there we met some of our London family members and acquaintances. Further we met others in the queue  resulting in   camaraderie.

As the queue wound down to the lower basement hall, we were greeted with smile and   ” namaskar ” by specially posted volunteers welcoming the participants with humility and wishing all of us a nice lunch. This was very profound in lifting our joyous spirit and at the basement hall – we picked up our lunch (chosen by each of us from a variety of menu items) served by volunteers posted at various tables. After pick up of the lunch   – we proceeded to the marquee which was erected next to the Main Building . There we all sat down and had our lunch – with quiet and relaxed manner.

After lunch, we came out to the grounds – from exit side – and there we had some time to mill around meeting more of our family members and some old acquaintances.

After finishing our lunch- we spent some time at the Main Building halls – where the ” health challenged”  guests were served lunch. The love and care shown by the volunteer servers to each and every guest was exceptionally heart-warming.   We ended our visit to the Oshwal Center by 3.30 pm and returned back very contented after enjoying the modern facilities and very warm welcome for the Samvatsari   Lunch.

My admiration and many thanks ( and  ” Koti koti vandan ” ) to all the volunteers who made the day very comfortable.

Snatra Puja

Friday 15 September 2017 ) was a special day at Oshwal Center for Snatra Puja   – which my sister Ranjan and brother-in-law Mahendra would like to participate. So we joined them.   What an experience!

I had not done Snatra Puja for a long   time – so this was an opportunity to remind me about  our Tirthankar Bhagwan achieving liberation from life and death cycle (attains Moksha) and provides an inspiration as to what can be achieved.

Also did ShantiKalash Jal puja,   Chaitya Vandan (praying to the Tirthankars at the temple ), & performing Aarti .

As I understand –     Snatra Puja is a common Puja widely performed by most of the Deravasi Jain worshipers. It is also a starting Puja before any other main Puja.

Snatra Puja is a celebration of life of Tirthankar Bhagwan . This Puja recital explains the effect of Bhagawan”™s birth on the whole universe, narrates how glorious the occasion was and how much joys were shared by all the living souls including all heavenly souls.

Also did ShantiKalash Jal puja,   Chaitya Vandan (praying to the Tirthankars at the temple ), & performing Aarti .

Note:   ShantiKalash Jal puja   –   Water symbolizes life”™s ocean of birth, death and misery. This Jain puja reminds that one should live one’s life with honesty, truthfulness, love and compassion towards all living beings. This way one will be able to cross life”™s ocean and attain liberation (Moksha).

LINK: http://www.jaincentreleicester.com/resources/puja/

Lunch was provided in the hall. The volunteers and the care was outstanding. The lunch was very delicious – prepared with love.

We also had the privilege to listen to the Oshwal Center President Mr. Tushar Shah – who provided background about various   activities that the Community is currently engaged on.   Very vibrant and modern thinking .

All in all, our visits to the Oshwal Center provided a religious/spiritual and social contexts for our short visit to London, U.K.     It   provided the view as to how we as   a community are leapfrogging into the modern time and  yet keeping “volunteerism ” as a central mechanism for our advancement. Our Jain Religion which proclaimed “Non-Violence “as its central precept some 2500 year ago is becoming an engine for a viable peaceful existence in this world.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Friday 06 October 2017

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 07 October 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday 20 October 2017

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday   28 October 2017

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 01 November 2017

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

Thursday 02 November 2017

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

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

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

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

Tuesday 07 November 2017

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

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

Wednesday 08 November 2017

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

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

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

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

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

Friday – 10 November 2017 .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday 14 November 2017

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

Wednesday 15 November 2017

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

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

Sunday 19 November 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for all your help!!!

Nina and Sunjay

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

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

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

Sunday 10 December 2017

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

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

Note:

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

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

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

 

 

One Way to beat Winter blues ? Bridge Card Playing – sent to NRT for publication on 31 March 2017

The following article was sent to North Renfrew Times for publication on 31 March 2017 – under the column of ” Letter To Editor “. Unfortunately it did not get published by the NRT – though I had separately circulated it all my bridge colleagues in Deep River, Pembroke, Petawawa and in Toronto too. Got good response from many.

———————

22 March 2017

One Way to beat Winter blues ?   Bridge Card Playing

Do you experience the “blues” or low mood during the winter months?

In our land of many seasons , during our harsh winter months  many outdoor team/group activities are suddenly terminated at the onset of winter.   Though some people do take up winter sports and enjoy these activities.

However, there are many people who either  ” hibernate ” indoors with minimal social activities                              ( resulting in social isolation ) or move out to sunny places south – specially to Florida.   The winter sports are usually not quite suitable for elderly/senior people.

Again as the winter is slowly moving out, many people are gearing up for outdoor activities and winter sports do come to a halt.

However  there is one activity which remains constant during all of our seasons – including during winter.

This activity is Bridge Card playing . It’s a   sport which requires a lot of social interaction and this relation with community members remain steady all year round. There is no automatic disruption in playing due to seasonal changes. The local bridge club (s) in the area remain active all year round .

This allows those playing bridge to come out of social isolation during winter and interact with many community members in a relaxed but otherwise challenging activity. It does help to beat Winter blues.

By the way, playing Bridge is termed as participating in a sport activity . In June 1995, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) admitted the World Bridge Federation (WBF) as ‘part of the Olympic Movement’, awarding it the status of a ‘Recognized Sport Organization’.

This recognition was accorded under  Rule 4  of the Olympic Charter.

However so far, Bridge has reached the same level as Golf, Rugby, Squash, Karate etc. which, though recognized as sports, are not yet admitted into the Olympic Games.

Bridge is one of the most popular card games in the world, so there must be some FUN to it!

Those who play bridge will tell you that :

  • ·                 Bridge requires strategic game play – which keeps memory active, the brain alert, and the body healthier.
  • Bridge enhances social life and nurtures partnerships ”“ keys to healthy aging.
  • Bridge   beats   Boredom.
  • One can with a few friends at home, or via a club or tournament or play it online.
  • Bridge requires logic – mathematics and counting – which exercise the brain.
  • Bridge requires concentration and while you are playing your brain is kept active and stimulated.
  • Bridge has such a positive effect on the longevity and quality of life of Seniors.

 

The bridge makes it possible for the players to relate as well as to communicate with local community members on a regular basis. Friendships are born and developed for life time.

 

When playing on-line on computer the players are associated with diverse groups of people from all continents – from rich and poor countries and that makes one realize how all human beings have common instincts, intellect and gracefulness.

Bridge is more complicated than other card games, and beginners are sometimes discouraged by this.    Relax!

Bridge is by far the greatest card game of all, and it can provide immense challenge and enjoyment for the rest of your life.

Bridge is a partnership game requiring four players. Each player sits opposite his partner at a card table (in this age of computers the concept could be a simulated).

Bridge is played with a standard deck of 52 playing cards. One of the players deals all of the cards, 13 to each player, in clockwise rotation, beginning with the player to the left of the dealer.

Here is the gem :

 

Has anyone ever heard of or read about how playing cards match up with our calendar?

 

The numbers and values in a deck of cards are very similar to the weeks and months of a modern calendar. Is this just a coincidence, or was this relationship intended? A complete deck of playing cards contains four suits, two primary colors, and thirteen values ranging from the Ace to the King. Usually, it contains two Jokers.

 

There are 52 weeks in the year and 52 playing cards…

There are 13 weeks in each season and there are also 13 cards in each suit.

There are 4 seasons and 4 suits.

There are 12 months of the year and 12 Court cards (those which have faces).

The Red cards represent the Day, the Black cards the Night.

If you let the Jacks = 11, the Queens = 12, and the Kings = 13, then add up all the sums of 1 + 2 + 3 + ”¦to 13 = 91 Multiply this by 4, for the 4 suits; 91 x 4 = 364 then add 1 that is the Joker and you will arrive at the number of days in the year?

 

Is that mere coincidence? or a greater intelligence…

 

Note: Of interest is the sum of the letters in all the names of the cards; eg : add up the letters in “one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, Jack, Queen, King” = 52 !

The Spades indicate ploughing/ working, Hearts indicate Love thy crops, Clubs indicate flourishing/ growth, and Diamonds indicate reaping/ wealth….

Also, in some card games 2 Jokers are used… Indicating Leap year….

 

It seems that there is a deeper philosophy than just a game…

 

If you have been discouraged or frightened or nervous to play Bridge so far   and now you know rudiments about the Bridge Card playing and its social/ mental/ health benefits as well as coincidental connection to our calendar,  I hope that you will take initiative to come out and play bridge . There are people in the community who will help you to learn and master the conventions and techniques and there are groups who play bridge on a regular basis – no matter what the weather or season.

 

Please note that the local bridge activities are advertised in the local newspaper, at the local library and sometimes by flyers around town.

So join the fun and bring twinkle in your eyes during dark days of winter or hot sunny days of summer.

Pravin Shah

65 Rutherford Av.

Deep River, ON

K0J 1P0                   Phone: 613-584-4469

Deep River waiting for growth – sent to NRT for publication on 16 April 2017

The following article was sent to North Renfrew Time (NRT) on 16 April 2017 – and it was published on Wednesday 19 April 2017 edition   – under the column – Point of View.

16 April 2017

Deep River waiting for growth.

As   a long time resident of Deep River, I am aware that many residents are concerned about the survival, growth and sustainability of the community. The decline in the town is very visible and the largest employer in the area is going through similar fate over the years. The growth of nuclear industry in Canada is stalled since decades and many scientists and technicians have moved to other places – many to the USA.

Survival and growth of Deep River and surrounding communities depend on the growth of the nuclear laboratories in the area – at least in the immediate and mid-term future. The long term growth of the town (and communities) cannot be predicted at this time.   The search for and possibility of any new industry has met with complete blank – even after investing thousands and many years in the area Economic Development studies.

Now that the new administrative structure  (the GoCo model) is established by the Canadian Government to operate the nuclear site in the area – the revitalization of the site is the part of their Vision 2026 statement and the Canadian   Government seems to support the vision by investing/providing substantial sums of money per year dedicated to successfully achieve this vision .                            Refer to on-line

LINK:   http://www.cnl.ca/en/home/news-and-publications/stories/2016/160414.aspx

There seems to be so much legacy wastes lying around and scattered at various locations at the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) site – which do present a danger (both radiological and non-radiological) to habitat.   Further, many existing buildings /structures / site services at CNL site are old and somewhat non-code compliant and tending towards being decrepit and building structures seem to be mostly of wooden construction and could be ” tinder ” and thus posing a definite fire hazard.

As I understand, to fulfill and achieve the CNL Vision 2026 for the revitalization of CNL site, it is necessary to   dismantle and remove these old buildings, infrastructures and site services (such as steam line, water lines, electrical systems etc.) and these to be replaced with code compliant and safe services and structures.

This would then allow ” managed ” and progressive revival of the CNL site – hopefully with modern nuclear and related research facilities at the site.

Without the removal of the old decrepit structures and services, the site cannot be transformed into a modern and thriving nuclear research laboratory. Now to facilitate removal all tens of buildings and services, it is necessary to have in place a disposal facility where the removed junk can be disposed off.

I believe it would not be possible or permitted to dispose of such dismantled buildings and site services materials          (containing varying degree of radioactivity) at the municipal garbage disposal (Landfill Site) facility on                        Baggs Road. Even if it is permitted, Baggs Road Landfill site has no capacity to accept such volume of waste.

Further, the dismantled wastes also cannot be carted away to any other site in Canada as such a site is non-existent. Even if such a site is available, the carting of millions of cubic meters of radioactive wastes over the highways would be logistically difficult and very expensive.

So logically, if there is no credible/engineered disposal facility which can accept such wastes – the existing decrepit and site services really cannot be dismantled and thus these old structures will remain in place and deteriorate over the years and then the fallen structures will contaminate the grounds and soil resulting in the contamination migrating towards Ottawa River and contaminating the river without any meaningful monitoring or control.

That would be a shame! The Chalk River site will be abandoned at some time in its life as there will not be much renewal which can be brought in on the site.   The local community loses.

The CNL site is a licensed nuclear site in Canada and in operation for more than half a century.

The site has adequate space which can accommodate a new engineered waste disposal facility (of proper type and size) for low level radioactive contaminated   wastes.

I am confident that the proposed disposal facility will be a professionally engineered and monitored site and would also have gone through stringent regulatory evaluation and have been verified by internationally renowned qualified experts in their fields of expertise.

There comes a time when bold visionary decisions are necessary or critical in one’s life or in the community’s life.   Of course the decisions should be made with proper understanding and required study and scrutiny.

The concept of the development of the proposed disposal facility by CNL is one of these.

While the development of a disposal facility can be accepted as necessary, however it cannot be accepted blindly and thus require scrutiny. It must be remembered that the ” devil is in the details ” and necessary timely constructive criticism or comments can enhance the safety and acceptance of such a facility.

It is my plea that we look at the proposed disposal facility not with emotional eyes and not with the psyche of   ” not in my backyard ” syndrome but with a bold vision to support the revival of the nuclear research, science and technology in our area and in Canada. It is important that such nuclear knowledge is not lost but retained and expanded for our next generation – who will be in high competition with many countries for such knowledge – critical to our safety, security and independence.

This is a momentous time in the history of Deep River and surrounding communities – with challenges and opportunities. It’s time for the area residents to be part of a bold visionary decision for the development of a well engineered and regulated waste disposal facility – which would allow/facilitate the revitalization/revival and growth of CNL site – which will, over the years, enhance Canada’s nuclear science and technology knowledge – with a possibility, in future, of development of a nuclear research reactor at CNL site.

All this, in turn, will influence the growth, survival and sustainability of Deep River and surrounding communities.

This is my opinion.

Pravin Shah

65 Rutherford Av.

P. O. Box 2033

Deep River , ON

K0J 1P0

Phone: 613-584-4469

 

 

Housing Bubble in Ontario -2017 May 02

The following was sent to Hon. Premier Kathleen Wynne on 2nd may 2017 by e-mail using his office Portal (on line) .

————

2017 May 02

Hon. Kathleen Wynne

The   Premier of Ontario

 

Housing Bubble in Ontario

 

Dear Madam

 

Please find below my thoughts as to the way the existing housing bubble in Ontario can be cooled   to a rational level.

 

———————-

Introduction  

There is a huge Housing bubble in Ontario

Prices are increasing in high percentage figures year over year.

Issue

The normal buyers – Ontario citizens   especially in GTA   and surrounding area – are left with so much obstacles to even make the first move to buy a residential property.   The young citizens who want to buy their first home are left with whopping debt – that even after intense haggling to make an acceptable offer to purchase a home.

Problem

There are multiple types of Speculators (middleman / interlocutors) – who push up the frenzy.

  • There is evidence of   “ paper flipping ” and other  speculations
  • There is “ property scalping ” in Ontario, which is described as “ those who go into new developments, buy up a slew of properties, and then flip them, while avoiding paying their fair share of taxes.”
  • There is “shadow flipping,” which involved purchase contracts being used for real-estate speculation existing homes
  • Non-resident Foreigners (with lot of cash in hand ) – buying residential properties for their own perceived security – in case they were to leave their home country for whatever reason
  • High demand driven by a strong economy and an influx of new residents from other parts of Canada.

All that results in unscrupulous Real Estate Agents   who encourage /allow bidding wars which leave buyers frustrated.

Government Solution

Premier Kathleen Wynne Government has come up with 16 point plan .

  • Refer to Globe and Mail Article in 22 April 2017 issue   – LINK:   http://www.theglobeandmail.com/real-estate/toronto/ontario-housing-16-big-changes-explained-in-charts/article34757648/
  • Apart from introducing the 15  per cent  “non-resident speculation tax”   which the Ontario government announced recently – there is nothing to curtail other speculators.

The 16 point plan is a feeble attempt to help the prospective renters – which will not cool the market.

My recommendations

In order to deal with this overheated market in the most rational way, and also to protect the value in people”™s homes,   it is necessary that all middlemen/ interlocutors are eliminated   – while also working to increase the supply of new residential units.

  • I think the Government should take measures to   stop the practice of   “ property scalping ”.   And also to stop the practice of ” paper flipping ”

All Real Estate developers must be made responsible to have each property registered individually (and thus pay necessary transfer and land tax) when it is proposed to be bought   by a so-called ” property scalper ” – rather than have the property transferred to a secondary buyer.   If a so called   ” property scalper ”   do not want to register the property in his own name – then the property shall not be sold/transferred to him/her or others (recommended by him/her) at that point.

Whoever (the prospective buyer) has signed the formal   ” offer forms ”   and which is accepted by the seller – shall be the one to whom the property be transferred.   The Real Estate Agent be made responsible to see that no secondary person is considered the buyer.

  • Same   procedure for   the   “shadow flipping” of a property .   No   ” shadow flipping ” of a property be allowed.

 

 

 

  • A drastic measure is also needed – when a property sees a “bidding war”   – the seller may   get the new enhanced price compared to what was listed as the price by the Real Estate Brokerage.

However, the Real Estate Brokerage needs to be penalized by the value of the sum by which the bidding went up compared to the listed price.   This then will stabilized the process of buying a residential property.

I believe that the unnecessary high demand of the residential properties can be curtailed by instituting the above measures.

There is another method by which the whole real estate market can be brought to some   rational functioning – that is to increase the borrowing cost by the buyer. Currently the business/ economic interest rates are really low and thus the value of a real estate property is influenced to be high – as the   yearly payment seems affordable by an ordinary buyer.

It may be necessary   for the Ontario Government to   impose a ” purchase tax ” of say 1% (can be more or less) of the purchase price (at the conclusion of the purchase process) – which would then also give revenue to the Government and stop possibly people to go crazy bidding prices up in trying to buy a residential property.   It will help to   cool the market down –   people would need to rationalize the need to buy a residential property on a   frenzy.

Note: No ” purchase tax ‘ be applicable to the first time buyer of a residential property.

I am sure the Ontario Government will review the above recommendations and have these rationalized   by its economic experts   and bureaucrats.   Hopefully these recommendations make sense.

PS –   Of course   –   the 15  per cent  “non-resident speculation tax”   shall be instituted .

regards

Pravin Shah

65 Rutherford Av.

Deep River

K0J 1P0 ,     Ontario

——————-

The following quick response was received   (Premier’s website) :

Thanks for your email. I value your input and appreciate your taking the time to get in touch with me.

Every email and letter I receive is carefully read and reviewed. Given the volume of emails and letters I receive, and because I may need to share your message with one of my Cabinet ministers or the appropriate government officials for more information, a response may take several business days.

Thanks again for contacting me.

Kathleen Wynne
Premier

Please note that we are not able to receive replies at this email address, so please do not respond directly to this email.

 

 

 

 

 

Grandparents – 2017 – 2nd Quarter

Sunday 02 April 2017

On Saturday 01 April 2017 – both Sitara and Sachin slept over at nana/nani home as their parents went to Ottawa to attend a party at Dhanuka’s place . It so happened that the parents did b not spend night in Ottawa but returned to Deep River late at night – just after mid-might – and also stayed at nana/nani home.

So next day on Sunday – the Mistry family was at nana/nani home and they and nani had earlier planned to celebrate nana’s birthday to-day ( instead of next week – nana’s birthday falls on 8th April) -as the family and nana/nani will be in Ottawa next visit to watch an ice hockey match.

Saturday 08 April 2017

Trip to Ottawa – all packed in nana’s maroon 2001 Dodge Caravan – 6 of us – Sitara, Sachin, Nina , Sunjay , nani and nana – driven by Sunjay . To watch Last regular season Ottawa Senators Ice Hockey game against New York Rangers . Senators winning 3 to 1.

Nina Posted on her Facebook Wall on 08 April 2017

Nina Shah tagged you in a post.

Nina wrote: “Happiest of birthdays to my amazingly caring and wonderful father! We stole your car and kidnapped you to take you to the last regular season Ottawa Senators game ….woo hoo!!! Thank goodness moms favourite Alfredson is no longer playing….she may actually talk to you during the game. lol”

This is what nana posted on his Facebook Wall on 09 April 2017 – thanking for good wishes.

” I would like to thanks all my family members and dear friends who are warm in hearts and really precious – for wishing me good wishes for my 77th birthday . I had wonderful time – spent in the company of my great grandkids and Nina & Sunjay at the CanadianTire Center, Ottawa watching Ice Hockey match berween Senators and New York Rangers( Senators won 3 to 1) . After that had good Thai dinner at The Silver Spoon Restuarant and then watched 3D movie -The Smurffs – Finding new Village and returned home at mid-night. A good day for a Senior !! Love to you all.”

Monday 10 April 2017

This day kids and their parents came over to nana/nani home   (after school) – to rest and have their dinner (brought from outside – Valumart – Potato wedges and chicken plus some salad)   . Mondays nana/nani go to Petawawa to play cards (Bridge) and thus nani’s dinner usually is not available except few things.

However, this Monday was a milestone in other ways.     Both nana/nani were shown a book written by Sitara   – title ” The return of Jebb ” – all typed on computer by Sitara (of course helped by her mom) and included were also some pictures ( paintings by Sitara) to describe an event or to show a map. The story is about two seals (cubs) -whose parents were abducted by Jebb and the seals (cubs) went on a mission to find their parents .

Tuesday 11 April 2017

This day was a ” sort of ” milestone – for Sitara who walked from school (after the end of school) to come to nana/nani home . The girl is growing up . No need for a pick up from the school – if kids were to come to nana/nani home in Deep River.

Friday 14 April 2017

It is Easter Friday day but for nana/nani – it was different highlight which greeted the morning. This was a charcoal drawing (of a jelly fish) done by Sitara   – so exquisite and pleasing to the eye. Her mom had posted that on her Facebook Wall (of this day) – and it got praise from so many of Mistry friends.

Also on this day the Mister family went to Sudbury (to spend the Easter weekend) – for North Science museum   and watch a movie or so.

Wednesday 19 April 2017

Sachin was picked up from school by his nani   (at 3.40 pm) – and then he came over to the DR Library Program room with his nani –   where nana/nani were playing bridge. Sachin likes to watch nana playing bridge – he is sharp and understands the rudiments of counting points and also the cards.

Sitara had gone to her art class after school by walking – she likes to go by herself nowadays – by walking . She then got picked up by her dad at 5.00 pm and all came nana/nani home for dinner .   This day kids’ mom was working in Pembroke and she also joined in the dinner after her work ( about 5.30 pm).

Kids were watching TV together on   the sofa in the Living room (nana/nani home) – the bonhomie between the sister and brother was very heartwarming.

Thursday 20 April 2017

This day there was a music (singing) program at the Mackenzie Community School. Sachin’s class (Gr.2) was also presenting a song . So nana/nani along with Sachin’s parents and his sister Sitara   went to school   after   dinner a tnana/nani home . The program started just after 6:15 pm . The Childs Auditorium was filled up – children and their parents/Grandparents .   Sachin’s class song was more lovelier than others with   some gestures/performance. Sachin was with a smile, doing all his gestures and singing well. Nana had a great time watching and hearing him sing.

After the sing song program – all were at the school – going round to look at and admire art pieces (paintings and models) prepared by students -all displayed on the wall and the on tables. Sitara (amongst other students) had a few art pieces and a couple of models   and Sachin also   had a couple of paintings.

Friday 21 April 2017

This day the kids came home to nana/nani home after school.     This is because their parents had gone to Pembroke in the afternoon for seeing their accountant for tax preparation.

It was different this time – the kids did not want to be picked up from school by nana/nani in the car but they wanted to come by themselves walking from Mackenzie School to nana/nani home.   And they did.

They are growing up   – sister and brother team .   Independent and with confidence.       So from now on they will walk after school   to their destinations in Deep River – if they are not going home in the School bus   or are not picked up by their mom from the school .   Nana/nani would get a bit of relaxed time.

Saturday 22 April 2017

This day Priya became 4 months old.

Her mom sent by e-mail (dated to-day) Priya’s 4 month photo with the white bear (stuffed)   and the following note:

”   Priya is enjoying the Winkle toy (Maya’s favourite at this age). She weighed 14 lb 2 oz   at her (early) 4-month visit a few days ago. She squeals, smiles, and rolls from front to back ”

————-
” Moose baby after dinner on Saturday night. We waited a few minutes to go out and play     ” Thats what Nina posted on her Fcebook Wall – with a photo of a Moose baby.

On Sunday both Sitara and Sachin were outdoors (with their parents also being there) at the shore of the Ottawa River – along their property.

And then Sitara was in the kitchen making tandoori chicken.

This is what her mom posted on her Facebook Wall in the evening of Sunday.

” The Onion goggles are out! S making tandoori chicken ”

Sunday 23 April 2017

This day we had a nice chat (in the morning) with Priya’s mom ( Shannon) on phone.   After that the kids ( Priya, Kieran and Maya) went to the playground across their house – with their mom.

From there she sent (by e-mail) a few photos of the kids playing in the playground .

Shannon also commented   as below:

” Nice talking to you today! Here is Priya going in the swing at the park for the first time. We also have Kieran in his new green pyjamas and hat, and Maya showing off her lost tooth! ”

Note: Further following tid-bits were exchanged on the phone re: kids’ progress or what is happening in their lives.

Maya

Lost her front bottom tooth

She can tie her own shoe lashes now

She rides   two-wheeler bike – without training wheels

Kieran

Can go confidently on a kiddie scooter

He is now fully toilet trained and   wears underwears.

growing up now

Thursday 27 April 2017

Maya wrote a very heart moving poem yesterday on her own – her mom sent it

(by e-mail on 27 April 2017) to the family members.

She wrote -along with photo of the poem :

” Here is a poem Maya wrote yesterday. Sending you all lots of love! xox ”

The poem is transcribed here – as she wrote on a piece of paper ( a photo of which was enclosed with her mom’s e-mail)

Love is the world

Love Love is the world

In just want love

Love Love Love !!!

I just want Love !!!

I a just happy with Love.

—————–

To which her Ba / Bapuji responded (by e-mail) on 28 April

So nice & heartwarming.

Love is everything. This is from Maya’s heart.

Love you Maya

Ba & Bapuji

————–

To which her Erica Aunti ( in Switzerland) responded on 28 April

That is just so sweet. What a great way to start my day!!

Thank you Maya and Shannon.

————

To which her Nina Auntie wrote from Mackey on 28 April

What was Maya doing just before writing the poem? Such happiness! I LOVE it!

Nina

———-

To which her grandma (Kathy – Toronto)) wrote from Switzerland (while visiting there ) on 28 April

What a beautiful spiritual message – for all of us!

Friday 28 April 2017

Both Sitara and Sachin came to nana/nani home after school – of course walking   (with all the school stuff on their back – in the ruck sack).

Note :   A ruck sack   is a bag with shoulder straps that allow it to be carried on someone’s back.

Their parents have had already left for Ottawa – to go to a spa place and thus the kids were to spend two nights at nana/nani.   Nani likes to look after the kids though these days it is   bit difficult as nana has cold and thus have to be careful to remain a bit aloof – not to spread any germs to the kids.

So kids spent Friday and Saturday night at nana/nani home .   Their parents returned from Ottawa on late Saturday night   (and also stayed at nana/nani home in Deep River) – after the kids had gone to bed and thus the kids were able to see their parents only on Sunday Morning.

Both kids were very polite and very loving with both nana and nani . However, Sitara showed (in a way) she was missing her parents – thus drew a few drawings – sort of trying to welcome them back from Ottawa and stuck-posted   these paintings on the outside front door- for her parents to see when they
arrive back from Ottawa.

——————–
Maya, Kieran and Priya went to a birthday party in Oakville with their parents .   ???

——————–

Saturday 29 April 2017

This day nana/nani took the kids to a birthday party ( to which they were invited) in Petawawa . This was a birthday for Hrithik   ( 5 year old kid) and the party was at the Lions Hall in Petawawa .   nana drove teh kids   (and of course their nani ) in his new 2016 Nissan Rogue . The party was at 1.00 pm and ended at 3.00 pm.

Sunday 30 April 2017

Kids went home to Mackey with their parents just after lunch .

Monday   01 May 2017

It was nice to talk to Sunir on phone – all seems well and Both Sunir and Shannon are busy getting the basement on their house (in Toronto) finished and renovated – which they expect will be completed by end June (2017).

The following further tid-bits re: kids progress in their growth was shared .

Priya

Our 4 month old granddaughter is now able to roll on her own from back on to her tummy   and after a roll over – looks around with a satisfied happy face – savouring her accomplishment.

Priya enjoys playing ” patty cake ” with her parents and responds by raising her hands to play.

Priya’s hair looking blond.

Kieran

Kieran has now started painting art on his own – his favourite colour is green for his   art work.

Kieran enjoys flying toy helicopter in house and he enjoys playing with the toy helicopter together with his big sister Maya.

Maya

Maya has now started swimming underwater as well as in the deep end of the swimming pool.

She takes swimming lessons regularly. So does Kieran .

Both Maya and Kieran are becoming good playmates – they enjoy each other’s company .

Saturday 06 May 2017

This day both Sitara and Sachin participated in a Swim-a- thon event at the Mackenzie Pool (in Deep River) – starting at 8.00 am to 9.00 am. Sitara did 2.1 km of swim run and Sachin did a 1.5 km run.

Both kids are participating in the Swim-a- thon to raise funds to support the Candu Club.

Nana/nani were present to cheer both kids. Their mom helped in the organization of the event   and dad was there to help out wherever needed.

This is what Nina posted on her Facebook Wall ( 06 May 2017) along with photos of the kids swimming.

“Swim-a-Thon Success! So many kids out to support the Candu Club! Sitara swam 2.1 km and Sachin Swam 1.5km in about 1 hour and 5 min ”

Monday 08 May 2017

This day Sitara was singing as part of her school group at Mackenzie Community School   – (Childs Auditorium ). Both nana/nani joined the family to cheer/watch/enjoy the singing. The whole event was for one hour – from 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm.
Thursday 11 May 2017

This day nana had problem of vomiting lot – and thus had to go to the Deep River Hospital Emergency – two times (at the same night   – or early Friday) by Ambulance. Then on Friday, nana was transferred to Pembroke Hospital – to see a specialist ( for intestinal blockage) – and nana stayed there till Monday 15 May 2017 . The Pembroke Hospital and the visiting surgeon administered treatment   – which finally showed “gas passing ” and some relaxation . Thus nana was allowed home on Monday – driven home by nani in the 2001 maroon Dodge minivan.

Well kids (Sitara and Sachin) came over to the Hospital on Sunday   to visit nana and cheer him up. They came with their parents.

Also the kids from Toronto ( Maya, Kieran and Priya ) were all on the phone with their dad -calling Bapuji.

By the way – Sitara spent last few days working on her 2016-2017 Year book and completed it – helped by her mom.

Maya, Kieran and Priya were all excited as the basement at their house in Toronto was now renovated with new carpet and walls.   So there is now definite progress for the comfort at home for the three kids to play a bit more freely.

Thursday 18 May 2017

After few days at the Pembroke Hospital – nana came back home on Monday (15 May 2017) – driven home home by nani in the 2001 maroon Dodge minivan.

Well, having recovered somewhat and in bit better spirit – nana was able to go to Mackenzie Community   School ( Childs Auditorium ) – along with nani – to cheer and watch Sitara participating in A Talent Show at the school – show starting at 2.30 pm .

This is what Nina ( Sitara’s mom) posted on her Facebook Wall – with a photo of Sitara at the piano :

” Sitara playing “7 years” at the talent show today at school “.

plus :

” lots of variety – 2 dance performances, a band (drums/flute/guitar/vocal), 2 piano pieces with some comedy, 2 songs (3 including Mr. Saari), gymnastics. It was great ”

———-

After school, the kids came nana/nani home with their mom – had dinner (Burger King take-out brought   by their mom) and then when their dad arrived Sachin got ready to go to play soccer with his dad and Sitara and her mom to go to Deep River Yacht   Club to felicitate the new owners of the local newspaper -North Renfrew Times .   However, plan changed as there was a massive thunder and rain – thus all Mistry family headed to the Deep River Yacht   Club .   Both nana/nani also went separately there. The kids had a great time looking over/through the   binders containing old issues of the newspaper   . They found photos of their SunirMama and their mom   (Nina) – when growing up in Deep River. Sachin was excited to find and read about his Birth Announcement (20 July 2009) in the newspaper in one of the July 2009 issues.

This is what his mom (nina) posted on her Facebook Wall:

” Sachin found his birth announcement! – NRT opening Open House ”
Note:     The follwing was posted by Sachin’s mom on her Facebook Wall on Wednesday May 17 2017.

” Sachin’s 2016-17 yearbook is done! It was MUCH easier the 2nd time around   🙂 It looks fantastic. So excited to get it. Got the hard cover options for each kid ”

Saturday 27 May 2017

This Saturday 27 May 2017 is the 50th Wedding Anniversary of kids’ grandpa (Pravin) and grandma (Jashoda) – who got 50 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya.

Both     families – Nina/Sunjay, Sitara and Sachin and also Sunir/Shannon, Maya, Kieran and Priya will travel   to Ottawa to participate in   a marathon walk and then all will go for dinner together.

Pravin/Jackie will travel with Nina’s family – possibly in the 2001 maroon Dodge minivan.   Sunir and family will travel from Ottawa in their car.   While Sunir and family will stay night in Ottawa – with their friends – the Mistry family and grandparents will return back to their home in Deep River & Mackey.

The Saturday marathon walk is called   ” Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend ”
Mistry family will participate in 5k walk -starting at 4.00 pm. (HTG Sports Ottawa 5K )
Note : The HTG Sports Ottawa 5K takes participants past Ottawa”™s historic Parliament buildings, by the storied Chateau Laurier and along the Rideau Canal for a 5K tour of some of Ottawa”™s biggest landmarks.
Sunir’s family will participate in 2k walk – starting at 3.00 pm     ( Ottawa 2K )
Note:   From youthful speedsters to families running and walking together, inclusivity and enthusiasm take centre stage at the Ottawa 2K. This is a race to be enjoyed together. And, yes, strollers are allowed!
Starting at Ottawa City Hall, the Ottawa 2K sends participants down a cheering Elgin Street before looping back down the Rideau Canal for a finish line experience that”™s hard to beat.
———–
So the Mistry family and nana/nani left Deep River at 9.30 am in the 2001 maroon Dodge minivan to go to Ottawa. The van can accommodate easily six people including the driver. Sunjay drove the minivan   and we all six arrived safely at noon – when we collected our kit from the Shaw Center at 55 Colonel By road.
After that we came over to the Elgin Rd/Laurier Rd from where the Tamarack walk was to start.   There we met Sunir/Shannon and family (Maya, Kieran and Priya) – who were all ready to participate in 2k walk – Priya in the stroller and also Kieran too was in the stroller for some of the time – or on his dad’s shoulders.   All three kids were awesome and then their cousins Sitara and Sachin – all were so joyous to be together. The grounds were festive with thousands of people milling around . After a while, Risha             ( Sunjay’s cousin from Toronto) was also there – as she was spending summer in Ottawa .     Maya, Kieran and Priya were out on the walk (2 km) with their parents -starting at 3.00 pm and Sitara, Sachin and their parents -along with nana/nani went on the walk (5 km) at 4.00 pm .     Nana/nani did only 3 km as nana got tired (and a bit hot with the sun on the head) and they took a ride with the “medical attendees” back to the start line . All got a participation award .
After the walk, the family met at a Japanese Restaurant – with all the ambiance of cooking at the table where the dining was. Kids enjoyed it .   There was a special chocolate cake ( with no dairy or nuts) – for celebrating grandparents 50th Wedding Anniversary . All cheered the grandparents – Sitara and Sachin had made excellent “best wishes ” cards   – which they presented to their nana/nani.
Sunir and family left a bit early -around 6.30 pm- as it was past Priya’s sleeping time . Sunir/Shannon were spending time in Ottawa with their friends .
Mistrys and nana/nani arrived back in Deep Rivera t midnight.

Thursday 25 May 2017
Hurray !   Hurrah !
One of Sitara’s paintings called ” My Garden ” was picked by
Celebrating Art
223 S Main St., Logan
Utah         84321
Tel: 435-755-8126

A postcard announcing the acceptance was received with the following message:
Congratulations Sitara! Your art ” My Garden ”   has been accepted to be published in the book Celebrating Art.
Monday 29   May 2017
Our Priya achieved two milestones today.       See below for her mom’s e-mail (title subject: Two firsts     today ) with photos.
” Jolly jumper and rice cereal… big day 😀 ”

Friday 02 June 2017

Priya last saw her doctor on April 18, 2017. She weighed 14 lbs 2oz and was 63 cm long.

Friday 23 June 2017
Priya is now 6 months old – a bright and bubbly baby.
Talking to her dad /mom last week – she has sprouted one tooth now ( lower) and she is babbling a lot – trying to   pick up words.

Friday 23 June 2017
Final Junior Music Club Performance of the season.
Sitara and Sachin participated in the performance at Childs Auditorium (Mackenzie School) in Deep River.
The performance was in the evening at 6.15 p.m – so all had dinner at nana/nani home in Deep River before going over to the Auditorium. Nana/nani also went.
Sachin (age 7) plays Hickory Dickory Dock and Sitara (age 9) plays Rhinos in the Mud.
Thursday 27 June 2017

This being the last school day, both Sitara and Sachin were entertained at Tim Horton by their parents. This is their annual ritual/tradition.   Both nana/nani also joined in the fun.

Nana was a bit buoyant as his article   (titled -Why I love Canada)   along with a photo of nana/nani at the Tamarack Race in Ottawa was published in the North Renfrew Times   (NRT) of Wednesday 26 June 2017. Further his poem   (titled –   O! Canada   Happy 150th)   was recited at the opening of the Renfrew Bridge Club game to celebrate Canada’s 150 celebration.

In Toronto, as the school ended – all three kids (Maya, Kieran and Priya) went to the cottage with   their parents – this is becoming an almost a ritual/tradition for them. The cottage belongs to Shannon’s parents -where Shannon & family along with her sister Heather’s family join in with   their parents in summer .

Note:     A bridge club in Toronto circulated (by e-mail)   Pravin’s Canada Day Poem to its membership

 

Poem for our Granddaughter Sitara’s 9th Birthday

 

Hey SITARA !

My joyful angel

Being an artist is her trait

Sitara paints and plays music

My budding pre-teen

Being focused is her characteristic

Sitara makes waves in water

My   best loving sweetie girl

Reading books is her fun time

Sitara reads of fairies and detectives

My caring buddy

Her smiles melt her nana’s heart

Sitara, you are an apple of my eye

My angel in the heart

9 – year old in 2016

Sitara all gracious and caring

Nana loves you, my angel

So much!   So much!   So much !

Sitara! Have a great birthday

Happy Birthday to you, Sitara

My loving angel.

your nana /nani     – 05 August 2016

NRT – Letter to Editor- What gift we should offer to Jesus Christ on his Birthday (2015 Christmas)

Published by NRT before Christmas edition   – titled by NR – Christmas Wishees

16 December 2015

 

What gift shall we give to Lord Jesus on his Birthday?

This is the question ( or similar to that) I saw last week on a Church sign post along Highway 17 near Deep River . It is a very pertinent question.   What can one offer to the son of God?

We ask or tend to know what our children (or family members and friends) want and buy gifts for them accordingly . How many of us know what Lord Jesus wants?

Many of us are not even followers of the religion that came about after arrival of Lord Jesus on this earth – some 2015 years ago.

However most of us know that Jesus preached and practiced – forgiveness , compassion and ” turn the other cheek ” if one gets belted (harmed);  amongst other things.

So what gift that goes with this persona which can be offered .

We can be compassionate – like gifting to a Food Bank or   children needing support or working to uplift poor societies in the world or warming up to a refugee family (coming from strife torn parts of the world) and for other similar opportunities.   The gift which enthuses compassion shows a semblance of spirituality commensurate with what Jesus exemplified.

Gifting is easier if we can afford it and such fortunate people giving gifts need to be commended but   any gift given by those who do go beyond their means are really going an extra mile for observing what Jesus would want.

Being neighborly, fair , respectful   and helpful to all around you – no matter what part of the world the neighbor has come from – is also a good form of a gift to Jesus and humanity – without actually parting with any tangible resources.

A smile is   a great gift – uplifting the human spirit at all times.

A care for all animals (wild and domestic) , plants and environment shows compassionate attitude and a good solid understanding of Lord Jesus’ teachings.

Forgiveness requires a  lot of spiritual strength and maturity.

At his crucifixion,     Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”              What a noble and forgiving outpouring – even when he was tortured and teased. This is the epitome of forgiveness.

Each one of   us will make Jesus very happy if we can bring ourselves to forgive first ourselves and then our own family members, friends and even strangers (for perceived real or imaginary pain and distress).

Glory be ! There will be peace within oneself and peace around   .   What a noble gift that one can offer and which can bring forth manifold returns in one’s life.

Can one muster up resolve for such a gift of forgiveness !   One needs to meditate and determine what one wants from life on this earth.

The most difficult  to follow   is the teaching of ” turn the other cheek ” if one takes the literal meaning – of being passive and submissive.

Depending on the context and situation there is an important implication in this profound saying attributed to Lord Jesus.

There are cantankerous family members and friends ( and also strangers)   with short tempers . Road rage is an example .   In this situation , it is better not to respond aggressively or violently but keep calm and the situation restores to some kind of normal state . Of course this will need to be followed by forgiveness ( showing mercy) and forgetting the incident.

In a situation where a violent attack happens, that situation may need to be corrected by neutralizing the attacker(s) but the urge to implicate/denounce   the whole section of a cultural group for such an attack needs to be avoided – as human beings are individuals and each one can have a different spiritual and emotional bearing.

Where feasible, a non-violent means of resolving a conflict   is the best way to respond to any affront.

Violence begets violence and societies (of victors and of defeated) get all chewed up and lot of suffering entails to all .

A good conduct and forbearance may yield desired fruit of repentance and change in opponents.

Wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays ! with a counsel to think about what one can do/act which is a much valued gift to the son of God on the eve of the 2015 Christmas celebration.

 

regards

Pravin Shah

65 Rutherford Av.

Box 2033

Deep River, ON

K0J 1P0

Phone: 613-584-4469