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Poem – for Sitara’s 3rd Birthday

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

 

Sitara Mistry’s 3rd Birthday
 5th August 2010

  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
 

 

 

Being Grandparents -17

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

 

 Tuesday   2 March 2010

This day both Sitara & Sachin came  to Deep River with their mom – to spend time with their Grandparents . On Tuesdays Sitara does not go to her BabySitter these days.   Sitara had a ball of a time outdoors – in the front of her Grandparents home –   she  made a snowman (helped by her mom & of course her nana) , She was so engrossed and enjoying making the snowman. She made body and then head. For a  nose she used a baby carrot and for eyes  she found 2 small stones in the garden area ( helped by her nana) . She was ecstatic and would not want to go in. At the edge of the snow pile, a seat was carved out for her to sit  and further her nana made a small tunnel –  for her to know what a tunnel is. She eased herself in it but found it a bit scary but also snow falling over her hair – which she did not like   as it was a bit cold on her skin.

Sachin was indoors with his nani – and as usual he likes to respond to all the attention he gets. He always gives smile and some baby noises.

After their nap in the afternoon, all had dinner joined by their dad. Nana had to leave to go for his card (Bridge Duplicate) game.

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Wednesday 3 March 2010

Sachin came to Deep River with his mom – to see his Doctor – for normal check for the baby. He has put on weight and is growing normally. This is the day he also got vaccination shots .   Sitara had gone to her BabySitter in Deep River – taken there by her dad in the morning (prior to him going to his office in Deep River) .   After the doctor’s visit – Sachen joined his mom & nani to go to Pembroke for various errands and shopping.   They all came back from Pembroke – in time to pick Sitara from the BabySitter.   After that they came home and had dinner with nana /nani . Sachen was a bit uncomfortable due to having vaccination shots in the morning. Sitara -as usual –  had time to watch one episode of Mickey Mouse.

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Tuesday 9 March 2010

This being Tuesday, both  Sitara & Sachin came  to Deep River with their mom – to spend time with their grandparents .

While baby(Sachin) was sleeping in his car seat, both Sitara & her mom spent time outdoors – this time in the backyard – over the pile of snow (a bit hardened up due to some melting as weather is unusually warm these days).   They prepared a tower from snow and just played around – with sun shining – a beautiful day -which is a bit unusual in early March . It is springlike these days.

As usual, they had a nap in the afternoon . Sitara is now recognising that there is a special room for her at her Grandparents.   Her own big bed – all well covered with Princess & Dora linen.

At the dinner time she tells her nana ” please go to my bedroom and get me my books – I like you to read these to me when eating my dinner “. This as so pleasing. For a 2 1/2 year old – to recognise this and to be charming about  it – is very soothing to her nana  . She likes books – always wanting someone to read a book to her.

Sachin had his milk bottle and then his solid food. This day he had his first  baby Apple food  –  at his Grandparents home.

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Friday 12 March 2010

SachinMan (as his mom calls him) resumed his swimming at the pool (at CFB DunDonald Hall ) in Petawawa today – after a break of few weeks. He was accompanied by his mom. The  swimming starts at 10 am (Tot/Mom program).  His Grandparents went there independently earlier as they go on a regular basis to the Gym (for exercise) at the CFB Dundonald Hall in Petawawa . His Grandparents started going for regular exercise at the Gym since about a week before Christmas, 2009.

Sachin was in the kids’ waddle pool with his mom and also his  nani , who joined them after her exercise.   Sachin just enjoyed being in the pool. He was paddling with his feet like a pro – of course held by his mom. He playing in the water was very comfortable for him and he just had great time.

After the swim , Sachin joined his mom & nani to go to Pembroke for some errands (also to review &  approve family portraits done by a professional photographer) & shopping.

Sitara was at her BabySitter for the day. She goes for swimming on Sundays (in the evening) – at the pool at Mackenzie School in Deep River.   She went there last Sunday ( 7 March 2010) – of course her nana & nani went to watch her splash in water (joined by her mom) .Her dad was also there with Sachin – all enjoying the fun and enjoyment that Sitara was having in the pool.

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 Sunday 14   March 2010

This day was Sitara’s final day for her swimmimg class – Duct Program at the pool in Deep River (located at Mackenzie High School) for younger kids.   She was in the pool with her daddy. Her mom was also present looking after Sachin – who was keenly & quietly enjoying the view and give a smile often . Sitara’s grandparents  also came to enjoy Sitara’s fun in learning to swim. They had earlier gone to Petawawa for gym excercise and than to Pembroke for shopping but returned back to Deep River by 6.00 pm so they could    come to the pool.   Sitara got her certificate of passing the course and now she will go to next level.

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Thursday 18  March 2010

This morning we got a call from Sitara’s mom that as her dad has to work on a sudden & important overtime – and thus can she be brought to her nana/nani home for the dinner and if needed for the sleep over – while her dad can go to office for the overtime work. This was not definite as her dad may not have to work overtime in the office  but could  bring work home.

However, her nana/nani were delighted – if she comes to their home. She is always a delight. Her softness, politeness and charm since her birth have won over her grandparents’ hearts.

It so happened that her grandparents went to Petawawa at the gym (in Dundonald Hall) in the afternoon but managed to be back by 4.45p.m and at that time Nina phoned to let know that Sunjay will drop Sitara for the evening. If she needs to stay overnight her night dress etc were also sent.

So Sitara came at about 5.00 p.m . Oh! she did not want to stay and wanted to go to Mackay to be with Sachin (her toddler brother) and her mom. She cried a bit – never seen her resisting before to spend time with her grandparents.   However, she calmed down when her nana showed her movie clips of her swimming classes, her gym classes and Sachin’s swimming etc.

After that she wanted to see her usual Mickey Mouse episode.   That she got to see.   She had her dinner – she wanted to sit with her nana – in fact she sat on his lap while eating. She managed to complete her warm chocolate milk   and grilled cheese sandwiches. It took a bit of coaxing by her nani . After thats he did her tooth brushing and potty business. She then played first with her nana and then with both nana & nani.

Her dad came to pick her up at about 8.00 p.m – just past it . Sitara wanted to take home her rubber bath ducky ( a larger one that she had at her nana/nani place) – this makes a complet set of whole family ducky set at her home in Mackey. She has a Sachin ducky, a Sitara ducky , a mommy ducky   and now with the larger ducky – now she also has daddy ducky.

At the time of Sunjay coming in the house – being a bit dark – a moth floated in thru the open door to the light inside. Nani  noticed that and she captured it into an empty “cottage cheese” carton and covered . Sitara   saw  that and asked what was that.   nani explained that there is bug inside and she wants to release it outside.   Sitara wanted to release it  instead. She said to her nani   “She will do it”.   She wanted the carton in her hand but this was given to her when she went outside with her daddy to go home.   Her nani went outside and gave her the carton and opened the carton so the moth can fly away.   But the moth was at the bottom  of the carton and would not make   a move to fly away. Oh! Sitara what a compassionate heart.   She tried to coax the moth -” please go to your mom  “, we love you , please  fly to your favourite  tree and go please go . But The bug would not budge. Sitara intoned in her most polite loving voice to get the moth moving. It so happened that when she said, in her softest voice to the moth  to fly away to the nearest tree – pointing to the evergreen tree in the garden next to the exterior wall – the moth suddenly took off and flew away towards the tree and then went away. Sitara was so pleased – ofcourse all of us – her daddy, nana/nani – were happy too . But we were also happy to know for the compassionate soul that Sitara has.  

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Saturday 20 March 2010

Today is Sachin’s birthday for being 8 months old. He is growing well and always a happy kid – responds well to all the attention. Lots of smiles from him .

His mom had planned to spend the day at the pool in the Petawawa Gym (DunDonald Hall) -as a family outing. Grandparents were invited too.Both Sachin & Sitara like being into the swimming pool. They all went to the  waddle pool – where there is a huge slide also. There is a  mini slide also where Sitara spent good time – making friends with other kids . Sachin, as usual, enjoy being in the pool and splashing his delicate feet and splashing water. I guess he likes the swishing sound when hitting the water with his feet.  Today Sitara swam in the water by herself – of course with her swim floatation balloons on her arm – but the point being that she did not need holding by her mom or dad and shwoing her ease and confidence in the water. At one time, she wanted to go on  the big slide – this one is a big one – with all kinds of turns when sliding down. Her dad took her – both seem to enjoy the slide and splash at the end of it. Her nana being watching and being happy at this innocent fun.  

Sachin’s nana played with him and took him into his arm and let him splash his feet – oh! he had a blue dcky in his hand which he was chewing off and on.

This day  is important to his nana also as he managed to do breadth width of swimming on his chest. His nana – though 70 years old- never mastered swimming except on his back – his nana can swim a little but on his back he found always very difficult and thought he  can drown if going in deep water .   But since going for excercise at teh Petawawa gym since last 3 months   (along with the kids nani) – and being in the pool few times in a week – he slowly thought thru – how to swim  on the chest – normal  way to swim.   So he started trying out and wow today he did it with swimming at least  three breadth  ( not together but separately) . In days to come, he will have to practice for more progress.

Happy Birthday my son, Sachin – 8 months went so fast – all is well. thanks to our Guardian Angel (Shree Jalaram) .

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Monday 22 March 2010

Today our “thapli” (our angel) came to spend the day with us – her nana/nani. She was dropped off by her parents on their way to Pembroke. Sachin went with the parents.     Sitara, initially , wanted go with her parents and expressed her willingness NOT to stay with her nana/nani . She was entreated by her dad to stay but she wanted to go with her parents – and thus burst into crying. At age 2 1/2 , She is now becoming aware of her wanting to stay with her parents – finding more attachments   to them and also security.

Her mom explained to her that they have to go to doctor’s office for medical check-up – which she understood but again still wanted to go with the parents. She kept crying – a way to say that she is not happy to be left behind.

However, after her parents left, her nana cajoled her and carried her in his arms and then took her to show some vedio clips (of her and her brother Sachin – swimming at the Petawawa pool and also her gym classes at Mackenzie High School in Deep River) on the computer. These video clips are taken by her nana’s Sony digital camera which can take   photos as well as vedio clips.   These clips are memory banks for the growth of Sitara and Sachin – what a wonderful invention of practical use -which  satisfies and cater to our emotions.   Sitara clamed down and was happy. After that she played with her nana & nani – of course separately – making puzzles and building towers of lego blocks.

It was a nice beautiful day – sunny and bright. So it was a good time to go outdoors and to the park for swings etc.   Sitara was all excited   .   Her friend Jordan joined also . Jordan is so sweet and has also a good vocabulary for conversation – she is a tad bit older than Sitara – I guess a 3 to 4 months.   So both Sitara and Jordan going to the park with their grandmas and also Sitara’s nana. Jordan’s grandma (Kathy) is next door neighbor  to Sitara’s nani (grandma). Both Jordan & Sitara play with each other also at their BabySitter.

Today, Sitara was not at her BabySitter and also Jordan was spending time with her grandma. So all ended up at the park on Huron Street – a walking distance. Jordan walked but Sitara was in her Stroller. They were excited and enjoyed their swings – wanted to go high and high – both grandmas working hard to push the swings  . It was all fun and girls chattering away expressing their excitement and happiness.   After the   swings – they all went on the see-saw. The girls on each side – and grandmas giving support and keeping a watch.

After the park outing, Sitara had a good appetite and ate her lunch and then went to sleep on her bed – in the bedroom well decorated by her nani – with “princess”   motiffed bedspread, pillows and also a covering for the bed headboard.   The room is pink and a touch of yellow.   This room used to be Sunir’s (her mama -uncle) but nowadays it is getting new identity as Sitara’s room. She calls it “my bedroom”.   Nana get my ‘my book” from “my bedrom” – I want you to read that to me. It sounds   so sweet – music to the ear.

In the evening, she was picked up by her parents and they all went home to Mackey – Sitara all happy and cool.

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Tuesday 23 March 2010

As indicated before – this being Tuesday, both  Sitara & Sachin come  to Deep River with their mom – to spend time with their grandparents.

Both kids were in good spirit. It was a bit dreary day and thus going out was not possible. Sitara played with puzzles and also stacking blocks and construction rings that she has.   She likes to make towers and other moscellaneous concoctions. Sitara also went around – between living room and kitchen – in her truck (the truck which all the bells and whistles – such a police car siren, fire truck siren and a fake cell phone (with authentic ringing sound).  

Her nani also played the “hide & seek” game with her -which she really enjoyed it . She likes to use the flashlight ( her nana/nani lets her play with the house flashlight) and would throw the light from the flashlight to find her ”  hiding  nani.   They had a ball of a time.

Of course , Sitara also saw her Mickey Mouse movie – her mom had brougt a DVD this time- which was useful as the VHS – VCR needed to have the heads cleaned up.

Sachin was happy as ever and played with his nani and nana – by cooing and responding to any call by his nana or nani.

He rolled on the carpet and also sat up for longer time. His nani then decided  to put him on the truck (Sitara’s) – he just took to it. He sat on it very ably and wanted to move around in it.   That was  a very satisfying new foray for him.

All in all they enjoyed their visit to nana/nani home in Deep River and their nana/nani had a great time with them.

Their dad also came from work and all had dinner  . Their nana left early to his Bridge Duplicate game (This is a steady winter season program for their nana).  They went home after spending some more time with their nani .

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Thursday 25 March 2010

Today, Sachin was home (Mackey) but Sitara went to her BabySitter . Normally she remains home on Thursday and goes to her BabySiter on Friday – but this week the schedule was changed so she can join her mom, Sachin & grandparents on Friday to go to Petawawa ( to  enjoy the Family Day Program at DunDonald Hall – organised by the CFB (army) for the families before the next contingent goes to Afghanistan)  

Sachin’s nana/nani went to Mackey to spend some quality time with Sachin. Well, by the time nana/nani arrived – he   had gone to sleep.   However, when he woke up -about an hour and half – bith nana & nani played withhim   – in between his   milk feed and changing diapers.

His parents had bought a new swing (those type with all the safety for babies) and had it installed on the outdoor swing set.

His nana took him out  –  the day being bright – though a bit windy and cold .   Sachin was on the baby swing -with nana pushing the swing. They were joined by Sachin’s mom and then by his nani.     Ah well, he was well protected by layers of clothing – so he was warm but then he became drowsy and falling asleep.   I guess all babies fall asleep in a swinging contraption. So Sachin is no exception.  

After some photo shoots – all trundled back indoor and then proceeded to have lunch. Sachin  was in his high chair to eat his   solid (baby food – all strained – powdery)  food.

After lunch, he spent some time with his nana & nani – then went to sleep. With that his nana/nano returned back to Deep River – having spent a pleasant few hours with Sachin & his mom.

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Friday 26 March 2010

 

Today was one of the best day enjoyed with grandkids.   It all started in the morning when all went to Petawawa Gym ( DunDonald Hall) for swimming and then all went to McDonald’s for lunch . After lunch all went back to DunDonald Hall at 2.00 pm to partake in the Family Day organised by the army  for the families before the next contingent goes to Afghanistan)    . It was fun all around. Both Sitara and Sachin were quietly enjoying the program. Sachin, being a baby do not quite understand the fun but he did remained happy and smiling and looking around.

Sitara enjoyed the bouncing in the bouncing tents and then watching the reptiles – demostrated by an expert.   Kids had a chance to touch and pat the reptiles – Sitara did – she patted a python and caressed him for sometime.   Sitara also enjoyed watching the acrobatics displayed by athletes on the  spring tarpauline.   She had her first taste of Candy Floss – so soft -but however she did not seem to like it and just had a taste but  refrained to have any more.

After that all returned to Deep River . There was so much more time to spend with the Grandkids.  Sitara played with his nana – blocks stacking making a bridge and a  tower . Today- she did not want to play with puzzles and she did not demand to see Mickey Mouse movie. She played miscellneous game including ” hide & seek ” with his nana.

Today it seem she was very happy and burst into songs -that she composed .

One  was like below (composed before dinner) & she sang this  melodiously – (for 2 1/2 year old girl)

Din Din Din

Din Din Din , Din Din Din

Din Din Din

Din Din Din , Din Din Din

Din Din Din

Din Din Din , Din Din Din

The second song she composed after dinner – when her dad was present .

She rolled and did “turn overs ” when singing – with smiling face.

It went like below:

Little Flashlight

Little Flashlight

 repeated the same refrain many times – in her musical tone

Little Flashlight

Little Flashlight

She was very happy . Sachin was happy   , nana & nani were happy and both parents were happy.

It was   a really fun day.

Pravin Shah

Being Grandparents -16

Happy New year (2010)

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

 

Note: First words Sitara spoke were : Dudhu, dudhu (this is the word for her milk in Gujarati) and mmmm, mmmm, and then daddy, daddy .

Monday 4 January 2010

This is an important day. Sachin got introduced to his first solid food – that is what was communicated by his mom  to his nani (on phone). He apparently did not quite take  the solid food  easily and fretted about it. However, it is an important event for his parents and also for his grandparents.     Oh! Sitara (his sister) was at her babysitter at that time.

Sachin had baby oatmeal cereal for his first solid food.

Wednesday 6 January 2010

We had a surprise visitor today in Deep River. Sitara , on her way from babysitter to her  home (Mackey) stopped for few minutes at her nana/nani home. She was,  as usual, palyful and loving. Sunjay  patiently waiting while Sitara completed her visit.

By the way, her nana/nani bought a new car (Toyota Corolla 2010) and brought it home from Petawawa Toyota on Tuesday 5 January 2010.

Thursday 7 January 2010

Both kids came to Deep River with their mom – both Sitara & her mom were grtting haircut to-day. This is Sitara’s first haircut ( a trimming only ) – she has most wonderful growth of hair – all black and silky and beautiful. She goes all coquetty and swings her head to nicely make   a play of her hair. This makes all her community uncles and aunties just go “ga ga”and they love this.

Both Kids were at home in Deep River – spent the day here. Sitara had her TinkerBell movie & also Mickey Mouse movie.

Sachin  was fed  a solid food here (at his Grandparents home in Deep River) today – a baby rice cereal.

Saturday 16 January 2010

Sitara started on her Gym class (this year 2010) to-day at the Mckenzie High School, Deep River. The classes start early in the day and thus her parents have to get up early to get ready and drive to Deep River – along with her brother, Sachin – who is only an infant of 5 months +. Her grandparents went to observe her and give her encouragement – but this time it did distract her as she was excited to see her “nana & nani”.   Sachin was as usual resting in his car seat and gave a huge smile to his nana – when his nana went to say Hi to him.

Wednesday 20 January 2010

Today is a special day – It is Sachin’s 6 month birthday . Happy Birthday dear grandson. We all love you. Sitara just is fascinated by you.

Friday 22 January 2010

The whole family (Sachin, Sitara, Nina & Sunjay) went to Toronto by car -as they were flying to Dominican Republic from Toronto for a holiday. This is   1st time   for Sachin to fly on an airplane. Sitara has already been to Dominican Republic before and  also to London (& Rugby) U.K before.   They are joined by Nayan (he is about Sitara’s age ) & by Neha (she is a couple of months bigger than Sachin) – both joined by their parents, Anjali (mom) & Avek (dad).

They all flew by a chartered plane   (by a tour company) on Saturday 23 January, 2010 to go from Toronto to a resort in Dominican Republic .

 Thursday 28 January 2010

Thursdays are normally the days when the kids (with their mom & then joined by their dad in the evening) usually come and spend time with their grandparents in Deep River. This Thursday, they were not here -as it was not possible as they have gone to a resort in Dominican Republic for a holiday.   Both nana & nani missed the kids – their sound and smiles and playfulness.   So in the night nani spent time listening to kids on the video clips on the computer – along with other members of the family.   It is really a technology – with the SONY digital camera – where we can take movie clips also.   It is great that we have such memories – that we can access to rememeber & enjoy the kids.

Saturday 30 January 2010

The kids are back in Ontario from the Dominican Republic.   We got a call from their mom – as they were driving to Kitchner to spend time with their mom’s friend (Morreen & Mike ) and family.   They had a great time at the resort – as reported by their mom – though Sitara & Nina – both had a virus for a day – throwing up.   Both are okay now.

Friday 12 February, 2010

The story is since they came back from the resort in Dominican Republic, the kids and their parents spent time in Toronto & vicinity prior to returning home in Mackey.  They were home on Monday 1st February, 2010.   During their stay at Toronto, some of them got ill from cold. So it became prudent not to spread the disease to Grandparents, it was decided to keep  them at home and  nurse them back  to good health.

Then the first oportunity came to  go see Sitara at her first Gym Class (Duck Category) at the Mackenzie School on Saturday 6 February 2010. Then  today (on Friday 12 Feb), Sachin came to Deep River with his mom to spend some time with his grandparents.   He and his mom still have some cold but slowly they are getting better. Sunjay had a coupek days which were not comfortable but he has now recovered, Sitara is fine too.

We will be seeing them on Tuesday 16 February 2010 – to celebrate Valentine’s Day and have supper together in Deep River.

Tuesday 16 February 2010

The day was fabulous. The kids came in the morning with their mom . Sitara spent time in the kitchen helping in preparing dough for cookies and the also palyed with her nana. She liked the ” hammock swing ” – which is normally used in an Indian home for   sleeping babies. We got the frame from Pankaj/Priyanka – who are from India and have imported this “hammock” (of metal construction – silver color) for their small kids – first for Teerth and recently for Devki.

Sitara just enjoyed swinging on the hammock and made her nana and also nani sing some  lullabye songs. After that when we put Sachin in the hammock , Sitara just took over and like a mature grown up – help to swing the hammock and sang him lullabye songs ( mostly I know my ABCD song).  

We just had great dinner together – lasanya – nano had prepared   a very tasty and nourishing meal.

Monday  – 22 February 2010

Last night Nina phoned and said that she has cracked one of her molers on a popcorn. So in the morning she got an appointment with the dentist in the town (Deep River) . The kids normally be then entertained at their nana/nani home   but this time because their nani was sick with cold and flu like symptons – it was dangerous to bring the kids home – as they may catch the virus.   So it was decided that nana will go to the dentist offic end look after the kids there.

It was fun. Nana arrived at the appointed time and while Nina was in the dentist’s chair – nana played with Sitara ( in fact she played by herself   and nana joining in   – she played with many puzzles – she loves puzzles. The dentist office had many puzzles in the foyer ( a well   appointed foyer with coffee machine, freeze full of water bottles and toys, puzzles, kids books etc for the kids – and a fire place ).     Sachin was also playing with nana . However, it took about 2 hours at the dentist office and Sachin was getting a bit restless   – it was getting too warm (hot) in the foyer due to the fire place.

After the dentist office, we all went to the Laurentian Dairy on the highway for lunch. It was great. Sitara ate well and also got ice cream (pink color with cinnamon) in bowl . Sachin was cool and calm in the beginning but then became restless – needed a feed and cuddling.   All in all , nana managed to spend more than 4 hours with kids .

 

Friday 26 February 2010

Sachin came home to Deep River  with his mom – to spend the day with his nani & nana and wait to receive his SunirUncle & ShannonAunitie who were coming from Toronto to visit.   Sitara was at her babysitter during the day and was brought from there at 5.00 p.m. by her mom. Shannon & Sunir arrived  about 7  pm – got delayed en route – visiting Shannon’s Grandparents in Huntsville.   Sunjay came   a bit late – currently he remains busy at work . Both kids were excited to be coddled by their uncle & aunt (mama & mami).   During dinner,   Sitara made good bbay conversation with her mama & also with her mami. Sachin -when he was taken on lap by his nana – just burst into giggles and showed excitement and happiness.

The kidss went home after about 9.00 pm – had a good   play with their mama/mami and grandparents.

Sunjay was to go to Ottawa for a meeting on the coming Monday – so he will travel on Sunday evening with his colleagues  from the office to go to Ottawa.

The news came late at night from Nina that Sitara had caught a virus and she was up most of the night throwing up.

Saturday 27 Febuary 2010

This day started out quietly.   We had news from Nina that Sitara did settled down and was doing fine though was not taking much food.   Both Shannon & Sunir went for skiing after having brunch. After skiing they went to visit Sunir’s friend (Martin) .

This day we were all invited to a party organised at the new Church on Hwy 17. The invitation was from Leela – sometime ago and she knew about Sunir/Shannon coming – so they were also included in the invitation. So we were told.   Sunir had mentioned when they were last during Christmas that he & Shannon would come again in February – to be precise on the weekend of 27th.     We were just baffled as why so quick a visit to the parents

Nina kept on saying that they would want to join Sunjay in Ottawa and spend a weekend there .   All was kind subterfuse   to let the grandparenst keep in the dark – about   a SURPRISE PARTY that the kids had organised to celebrate  nana & nani’s 70th birthday . Nani’s  70th birthday was on 15 Nov 2009 & nana’s   70th birthday is coming on 08 April 2010. So they kept the party in February – a middle date.

 

So this day turned out to be a day of celebration – a surprise for both nana & nan- – Sitara was all excited and when we arrived at the Church at 7.00 pm – we were welcomed by all our family and many friends with ashout ‘ Surprise” and Sitara ran to come to her nana & nani & welcome them with a hug.   Sachen then also quitely come along – of course carried by his dad and came over to nana’s hug . It was a fabulous night – a good party  -with family and friends . We were overcome by such love by all – we had friends – from all sectors of our life in Deep River. There were beautiful speeches – emotional one from Nina.  Sunir acted as a M/C and his speech and introduction were level.   Then we responded to all this warmth and gave  impromptu speeches to thank all . Nani talked about surprises when Nina was born & after that Sunir . Also pleasant surprises when they completed their studies and then found their life partners. Nina found Sunjay and Sunir found Shannon .

Nana   gave a speech –  which in short runs like below:

We are just overwhelmed by you guys. What an awesome party – a surprise that will need many years to unwind.

Both of us are overcome with emotions   and many thanks to  each one of you for so much care.
Our most heartiest thanks.
and  let me say:
Children are precious
Family is precious
Friends are precious
The community is precious
Wife is precious
Life is precious
Our Guardian Angel is precious
but the most precious are the Grandchildren.
At our age, they ( the grandchildren ) come and shower so much innocent love – their laughter and playfulness make us energised.
that by just holding them make us to want to live more.

Pravin Shah

Being Grandparents -13

This post is a continuation of  the earlier posts (Being Grandparents ,Being Grandparents – 2, Being Grandparents – 3, Being Grandparents – 4, Being Grandparents – 5, Being Grandparents -6,Being Grandparents -7, Being Grandparents -8 , Being Grandparents  -9  ,  Being Grandparents -10, Being Grandparents -11 & Being Grandparents -12 )   as the previous  posts were becoming a tad bit busy.

 Wednesday 14 October 2009

Today both Sitara & Sachin came to their Grandparents home in Deep River along with their mom -to see the Renovation work of kitchen & downstairs bathroom – started today by the Contractor (Rob) & then electrical work by David.   There was demolistion work going on and Sitara was just watching but not saying much. It is better she saw the construction work -as she will be losing her old kitchen habitat and would have wondered what happened – if she was not shown this renovation.     She actually took this in her stride and spent time with her nana in the Recreation room watching Mickey Mouse skits – earlier recorded by her nana. The   Mickey mouse TV sketches are very popular with her – she is only 2 year & 2 months old and she understands the story line.

Sachin spent some time with his nana & smiled and then went to cry a bit. Her nani & nana gave him “rolling” in a make-do  swing (of his blanket) for a few minutes and he was quiet as a nice boy. After that he spent an hour or so in his nani’s hands . Of course he was fed and looked after by his mom also.  And Siatra was also fed by her mom – the chili (Vegetarian) that her nani had prepared.

Both the kids make life bright and lightens up any burden that may be bothering  their seniors.

By the way, Sitara is out of her regular diapers (since about last couple of days) and she is now getting used to go to potty when such need arises.   It will take some time before she is completely out of any so-called “accidents”.   She is now wearing “the pull-ups” . She  gets  a penny for each accomplishment for her piggy bank. She loves her piggy bank and is proud of it.

 

Saturday 17 October, 2009

This was the Diwali day (celebrated in India and alll over the world) and it was first Diwali Program that Sachin attended. The program was organised by the “Deep River-Pembroke” East Indian Community at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Pembroke   . It was third for Sitara (she being 2 years 2 months) . Both kids enjoyed the party specially Sitara as she could run around and play with other kids. Though it ws a bit difficult as most kids were doing their own things -all being excited seeing so many people and kids. Sachin, of course , spent most of his time in the seater but he was contented and seemed happy.

During the day Sitara was busy (in the morning) to go to her Gymnastic class at Mckenzie High School and the to a birthday party where she got opportunity to touch live snake & lizard etc (as the host family had brought a kid entertainer from Ottawa with the pet animals.)

 

Pravin Shah  

 

Book Reading -Miscellaneous Books Read -3

General Comment:As mentioned earlier on my April 19 2007 post, I have embarked on writing a few words on all the books that I may read in my retirement. I will reread few books which I read over last few years – this to allow me to capture some good essence from the readings.

Since I read the book titled   “Economics of Lord Mahavira by Acharya Mahaprajna”,  I have completed some more. The last being titled “Payback” by Margaret Atwood. This book I completed last night. My daughter(Nina) is reading the book – she has just brought it from the Deep River library. She kind of encouraged me to read the book and left with me for a couple of days. (They had stayed at our place on Thursday April 30, 2009 night).

Margaret Atwood is a well known Canadian author with many awards . She is very popular and prominent. However, this is my first read of her many books.   She is an excellent writer and weaves her theme in a complex but understandable steps. This book is about human life on earth – (with many facets of debts & sins     – which each one of us is loaded with during our existence on this good earth –  and how payback for such debts/sins is extracted .

In the end , the book ends

” I don’t really own anything, Scrooge thinks.Not even my body. Everything I have is only borrowed. I am not really rich at all, I am heavily in debt. How I do even begin to pay back what I owe? Where should  i start?”

 ——————————————————————————————————————————

Thursday 3 Sept 2009   —here is the listing of books I completed since my last one   titled “Payback” by Margaret Atwood -see above

1) ” Idiots   at Work”  by Leland Gregory   – Chronicles of Workplave Stupity

2) ” Watchers ” by Dean R. Koontz   -Rivetting terror book – fiction

3) ” The Only Road North ” by Erik Mirandette – adventure & theology – a journey thru Africa on bikes

4) “The Indian Fan” by Victoria Holt – a historical basis – mystary

5) “Economics of Lord Mahavira” by Acharya Mahaprajna – Religious background

6) ” The Spring of the Tiger “  by Victoria Holt – a historical basis – mystary

7) “Icebound” by Dean R. Koontz   -Rivetting terror book – fiction

8) “Dreams of Glory ” by Thomas Fleming – American –  historical basis

9)”Before and After” by Rosellen Brown – a novel

10) ” Curry Is Thicker Than Water – by Jasmine Anita Yvette D’Costa – Indian Background – social context

11) “Night Shift” by Stephen King – suspense

12) “Breach of Trust” by Bonnie MacDougal – a legal thriller

13) ” The Face” by Dean R. Koontz   – A wild adventure

14) “Debt of Honour” by Tom Clancy – American drive – a thriller  

15) Miscellaneous Bridge   games (Card Playing Books) – at least 3 books.

Pravin Shah

Baby Shower – Nina

Well, finally the 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.

Baby Shower is a western phenomenon which is now adopted by East Indians all over but more so in Canada.

There were close to 40 ladies (of all ages from a teenager to a couple of grandmas)  partricipating in the shower. I was allowed to be present as a “Grandpa to be” and who can provide a hand in organization when “grandma to be” remains busy with the celebratory games and providng refreshment.

The living and dining rooms were rearranged and decorated for the occasion . Nina , as usual was resplendent in a Saree and silver bangels, Sunjay was looking fresh in his matching shirt and trouser ensemble.

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 Grandpa took this opportunity to create my own lullaby in Kiswahili  (a Kenya language).

The words go as below:

jambo Jambo Habari gana

Hakuna Matata   totto ndogo

Maze hapa na lala.

The baby shower ended about 11:00 with a loot bag for each participant.

Pravin Shah

Slipping on Icy Surface

Last week on Monday, 2007 March 19, I slipped on icy surface approching the front door of my residence. My left hand wrist bone had cracked. There is plaster cast on the hand but should be okay in few weeks.

The medical technology astounds me. The good doctor in emergency was able to set a chipped  bone piece & the stabilise the crack in good time

Black Bean Chili Recipe

Recipe from Internet.

BLACK BEAN CHILI

4 C Dried black beans, sorted and rinsed
2 T Cumin seed
2 T dried oregano, preferably Mexican
1/2 C Olive oil
2 large onions, chopped
1 1/2 C finely diced green bell peppers
3 T minced garlic
4 1/2 tsp Hungarian paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
3 C crushed tomatoes in puree
4 fresh Jalapeno peppers, seeded and deveined, finely chopped
1 large Red bell pepper
6 oz Goat cheese, crumbled
Sour cream
warm flour tortillas

Place beans in large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil.
Remove from heat and let stand 2 hours.

Drain beans and return to pot. Add enough cold water to cover by two
inches. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until
beans are tender but not mushy, about 2 hours. Add water as
necessary.

Drain beans, reserving 3 cups liquid. Return beans to pot along with
1 cup of the cooking liquid.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Place cumin and oregano
in small baking pan. Roast until fragrant, shaking occasionally,
about 10 minutes.

Heat oil in heavy skillet. Add onions, green pepper and garlic.
Stir over medium high heat for 3 minutes. Add cumin and oregano
mixture, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Cook until onions are soft,
about 10 minutes. Mix in tomatoes and jalapenos. Bring to a boil.
Gently stir into the beans. If necessary, thin with reserved liquid.

Char and peel the red bell pepper. Dice into 1/4 pieces. Place 1 oz
goat cheese in each bowl. Top with chili. Garnish with sour cream
and diced red bell pepper. Pass warm tortillas separately.

Serves 6 or more.

KEYWORDS: meatless, vegetarian, spicy, hearty, make ahead

Ode To Chatterjees on their move to Toronto

 

Sunday,   March 21, 2004

The Ode   delivered at the farewell party for Chatterjee’s held 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

 
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.

 

Pravin/Jackie Shah

Canadian Military Engineers – Centennial Celebration

                                                                                                                                                                                                      Dec. 01, 2003
Canadian Military Engineers – Centennial Celebration

 
 
This year Canadian Military Engineers are celebrating their centennial year.

Canadian Military Engineers Corp came into formal existence in 1903.  

 
Reference Website http://www.cme-2003-gmc.org/hist_e.htm.  

 
According to the above website, the first Military Engineers in Canada were French who in the early 1600s built a number of resource exploitation and strategic defence fortifications in Quebec and Acadia. In 1685 the “ingenieurs du roi” became the first professional engineer force to be permanently established.

 
With the arrival of British governance in 1763, Royal Engineers assumed the tradition of constructing for defence and national development. The Canadian landmarks such as Fort Henry, Frontenac and William were built. Another example is the historically significant Rideau Canal strategic waterway, which was built circa 1832.

 
The mission of the Canadian Military Engineers is to contribute to the survival, mobility, and combat effectiveness of the Canadian Forces. They have played an important and critical role in keeping the Canadian forces mobile and ready to fight in time of war.

 
Currently, the Canadian Military Engineers are engaged in providing critical support to the Canadian peacekeeping efforts in Afghanistan and other countries in the world.

 
We as Canadians should be proud of their contribution to the nation at home and for peacekeeping abroad.

 
As a Professional Engineer and a Canadian, I offer my congratulations to the Military Engineers for their Centennial celebration.

 
Pravin Shah     P. Eng.