We (Ba/Bapuji —- to Maya/Kieran/Priya) and (nana/nani —- to Sitara/Sachin) spent their first New Year day in Toronto after Sitara was born in August 2007. Each Christmas Day since 2007 – Sunir and Shannon and the kids (after they were born) would come to Deep River for celebrating Christmas with family and would go back to Toronto to celebrate New Year.
This year as Priya was born on 22 December 2016 in Toronto – Sunir/Shanoon and family could not come to Deep River during Christmas – and grandparents from Deep River went to Toronto to coddle Priya and celebrate New Year day with her, Kieran and Maya and family there. Sitara and Sachin missed their cousins and Mama/Mami and so did Maya, Kieran and Priya missed their cousins Sitara and Sachin and Foi and Fuva.
Sunday 01 January 2017
This day all were invited for dinner at Maya/Kieran/Priya’s grandparents (Kathy/Doug) home. Again the kids had a great time with their HeatherAuntie/Ryan Uncle and cousin Cole as well as with EricaAuntie/MathieuUncle and cousin Julia). Their Toronto grandma and granddad coddled and played with them as and when possible.
Monday 02 January 2017
As usual , both Maya and Kieran were dropped at their respective school in the morning and picked up in the evening by the parents . Priya was home resting and doing her new born baby things – sleeping, nourishment by her mom and coddled by her parents, Ba and Bapuji.
Tuesday 03 January 2017
As usual , both Maya and Kieran were dropped at their respective school by their mom in the morning . Priya was home resting at home with her dad .
Ba/Bapuji (though weather was predicted to become icy rain and slippery road condition) – decided to take the trip to return back to Deep River . They left Toronto at about 10.30 am.
Ba/Bapuji returned back to Deep River after spending time ( a week) with Priya/Kieran and Maya and their parents. Priya was coddled and pampered and held close and kissed. Ba/Bapuji also played with both Maya and Kieran .
It so happened , the road conditions were good (all along the road) and icy conditions were generated after Ba/Bapuji arrived at Deep River at 4.00 pm
Wednesday 04 January 2017
Sachin came visiting at nana/nani home with in Deep River – his mom for a short while only . They had come to deep River from Mackey to drop Sitara for a sleep-over at her friend’s home in Deep River. Both kids are having a school vacation till the end of the week – Christmas/New Year shutdown of the school.
Sachin was lucky – as he get to take Christmas gifts from his Mama/Mami and cousins in Toronto – these brought to deep river by his nana/nani after their visit to Toronto.
Thursday 05 January 2017
Sachin again came over to nana/nani home with his mom at lunch time – to spend time and have lunch ( specially prepared by his mom for this time as they had come to nana/nani home at a last minute) – Nina was to pick up Sitara from her friend’s home and Sachin had to accompany his mom . Well, Sachin played Monopoly ( Starwar) and some card games with his nani and spent his time socially with nana/nani – while Nina took Sitara for her ice skating session in the evening at the Deep River Arena. Sachin then was picked up by his dad in the evening to go home to Mackey.
Friday 06 January 2017
The kids Sitara and Sachin came to nana/nani home (in Deep River) in the afternoon – to spend the day . However, Sachin had to go to a birthday party for the afternoon at the DR Arena (driven thereby his mom) – while Sitara spent time with nana/nani – spent time making a few electronic items from the Electronic Snap Circuit ( a Christmas gift from nana/nani) – which she had brought with her for the day. After a while, it became frustrating as one unit was not responding ( some defect -as ascertained by her dad later when he checked the circuits out) . A new part will be ordered.
After dinner, all gathered at the dining table to play the game of “sequence” – card game to make a sequence row of five pieces placed on a board. Kids enjoyed the game – though Sitara quit after she had enough – but Sachin remained focused and played a very good game .
After the game, the family went home.
It was a very cold day – temperatures falling below between -20 to -30 degrees C.
Saturday 06 January 2017
It was another cold day but Sitara came to Deep River Arena in the evening – for her ice skating session – driven by her mom . Sachin had stayed home in Mackey with his dad .
Nana/nani braved the icy/cold weather and drove to the DR Arena to watch/cheer Sitara in her ice skating. After the session was over, nana/nani returned back to her home and Sitara and her mom went back to Mackey.
This day Maya went for ice skating – with her dad .
Sunday 07 January 2017
It was cold day but somewhat better than the day before. So Sitara and Sachin went for downhill skiing with their parents at the Mt. Martin hill in Deep River.
Sunday 15 January 2017
Here is what Sitara’s mom posted on her Facebook Wall on this day:
” S is loving snowboarding so much she is trying it on the hills on our driveway ”
Saturday 21 January 2017
Nana/nani went to the Deep River Arena in the morning ( 11.00 am) – to watch Sachin playing ice hockey tournament match with a team from Cobden – the Deep River team won ( 6 to 1)
After the ice hockey, the kids and their parents went to the Mt. Martin Ski Hill – for Sitara to take her learning session for snowboarding (at 1.00 pm) and Sachin to have an advance lesson for downhill skiing.
Both kids are good at downhill skiing and they enjoy the sport. Nana/nani went to watch and take some photos and videos.
From there, Sitara had an ice skating session at Deep River Arena in the evening – and the family went home.
Sunday 22 January 2017
To-day is a special day . Priya turned 1 month old – her mom sent (by e-mail) her 1 week photo and also 1 month photo. Looking good .
This is what Sachin’s mom posted to-day on her Facebook Wall :
” Deep River Novice House team plays in Renfrew today at 10am! Deep River Knights win 2:1! ”
Sachin is part of Deep River Knights team.
Tuesday 24 January 2017
It was a busy day . Both Sitara and Sachin were dropped in the morning (at about 8.00am) at nana/nani home in Deep River by their dad – while on the way to his work. This is part of a safe procedure when their mom is working ( today she was working in Pembroke and thus had to leave home early – which would leave kids without supervision/care prior to boarding a school bus) . This way they are at nana/nani home – have their breakfast and then spend quality time with their nana/nani prior to going to school. Today, nana/nani dropped them at school – in their new 2016 Nissan Rogue car – which again is the normal way to transport kids ( driven to school by car) to school whenever they arrive at nana/nani home in the morning.
They were picked up after the school by nana/nani (at 3 .40 pm) and came home – stopping at the Deep River library en route – where Sitara wanted to return a book – which she had currently completed reading. Both Sitara and Sachin – each – borrowed further books for reading . A very satisfying to their grandparents that kids are on a fine character and habit.
After coming home , they had dinner along with nana and nani. Their dad arrived a bit later but dinner by kids had to be early as Sitara had to remain ready to go to Petawawa Civic Center – where she was participating in the ice Synchro event ( a part of Cabin Fever January 24th 2017 event organized by the Town of Petawawa) . The event was planned between 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm.
So after rushed dinner, kids went with their dad to Petawawa Civic Center ( driven in their new 2016 VW Passat black car) – where their mom joined them (after finishing her work in Pembroke) . It takes about 1/2 hour to drive to Petawawa Civic Center from Deep River – but to-day was a difficult day . It started snowing at about 4.00 pm ( after a break and high temperatures for last few days) . Though the temperature was about – 2 degrees C , the snow was falling rather dense thus visibility was slightly curtailed and that led to a slower driving . However , kids and their dad got there in sufficient time and nana/nani also made it in their new Nissan Rogue car . Nina was helping the Deep River Group in make-up.
Here is a forwarded note posted by Nina on her Facebook Wall – on the same date.:
Fwd: Synchro Team at Cabin Fever
Hi all,
Steph has asked our Beginner Synchro Team (Frozen) to perform on Tuesday, January 24th. The Petawawa Club typically does a 1 hour ‘Cabin Fever’ mini ice show (6-7pm) and this will give our skaters a chance to present their program.
Please arrive at the Civic Centre at 6pm. Tanya, Emma Whan’s mom, has graciously accepted the role of Team Manager. Our team will be assigned a dressing room and she will be there with the dresses. Please prepare your skater with dress and skates. They are to wear their beige tights and their hair is to be tied back in a low ponytail (comfortable under the helmet). Nina, Sitara’s mom, our Team Makeup Artist may give the girls a little sparkle. Then they are welcome to watch some of the show from the stands. Please sit together so we know where you are.
Have your skater visualize our program in the arena since this can be confusing for some. Use the windows and stands as reference points.
Our group will be the second last to perform. I am going to be driving from CanSkate in Deep River and hope to arrive by 6:30. If we have time, I hope to run through the program in the change room with the music.
Finally, if the weather is bad on Tuesday, we will send an email to let everyone know if we are going.
Happy Skating!
Angela
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Sitara and her team were one of four groups performing for Synchro. The four teams were :
Pre Beginner synchro – 2 minutes performance
Beginner 1 synchro – 2 minutes performance
Deep River Beginner synchro – 2 minutes performance
Pre Novice synchro – 2 minutes performance
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Sitara team had beautiful light blue outfit – each girl was well dressed and good make-up.
After the event (once they reached home – slowly in snow) – Nina posted a photo of the team on her Facebook wall with a note:
” The Deep River Synchronized Figure Skating Team performed at the Cabin Fever Ice Show tonight in Petawawa, Ontario. Fantastic performance girls!! “
Friday 27 January 2017
Both Sitara and Sachin came over to nana/nani home after school (about 4.00 pm) – brought by their mom. The day was mild and bright . So the kids wanted to play outside – in the snow. Deep River home provides a high bank of snow along the concrete pathway to the front door. Sitara dug a cave and Sachin was clearing the path using large shovel – also making a monument in the snow bank. After all the attention, Sitara got from nana and nani – Sachin also dug out a cave on the other end (near the front door) of the pathway. Both kids really enjoyed outdoors and such diligence and concentration in their pursuit of joy. Of Course necessary photos were taken by both their nana and mom. Their dad did not come for dinner – as he had gone to Mt. Martin Ski Hill .
After dinner, Sachin went home with his mom but Sitara stayed at nana/nani home for a sleepover. This is because the next day (on Saturday Sachin was playing Ice Hockey in the morning ( 9.00 am) at Eganville and thus his parents will have to leave home early to take him there. This would affect Sitara’s day – so it was found easier if she sleeps over in Deep River. Nana/nani were delighted and Sitara was happy too. She had a special request – she wanted to sleep downstairs ( on the sofa bed – the one normally used by her parents when they sleep over in Deep River) . Sitar has special room upstairs – all made out in the “Princess Theme’ -since she was born. Bit this day she wanted to decode the mystery of sleeping downstairs. Her nani was happy to make out the bed and let her sleep downstairs. Her nani also joined her – on the bed next to the sofa bed.
Friday 27 January 2017
Ba/Bapuji mailed to-day (from Deep River) by Canada Post a parcel with Valentine knick-knacks for Maya, Kieran and Priya ( In fact for Priya , it was a sleep dress – being only 1 month old). Also each one got a specific Valentine Card (including Priya) – Ba/Bapuji expressing love for the grandkids.
Saturday 28 January 2017
Next day , all had breakfast and at around 11.00 am , Sachin and his parents returned back from Eganville – both Sitara and Sachin were to go to the Mt. Martin Ski Hill – for their lesson – Sitara for Snow Boarding and Sachin for Downhill skiing ( a sort of advance course – Sachin knows how to ski.)
However before going to the Ski Hill – both kids again went outside in front of nana/nani home and resumed their cave making (more deeper ) and playing in the snow. They had a great time . So had adults watching them and being part of all the fun. So at about 12.30 pm they left for the Ski Hill with the parents.
Kids expressed their happiness to be with their nana/nani and playing in the snow specially with their nani both days. Sachin expressed this feeling by telling his nani – ” thank you for playing with us ” and other good words. They are reluctant to end the fun and go to their next assignment – like going over to the Ski Hill (though they enjoy that too ).
Sunday 29 January 2016
Being home today – Sitara got engrossed to a productive activity – baking an Ancient Roman Bread. Her mom posted her photo ( rolling the dough for the bread) on the Facebook wall.
Thursday 02 February 2017
The kids came to nana/nani home after school – brought by their mom. After their dad came over ( at the end of the day) all had dinner together. After dinner, Sitara and her mom along with nana/nani went to the Mackenzie Community School in Deep River for a walkathon ( this is done by nana/nani twice a week – Tuesdays and Thursdays) – a sort of winter physical activity – indoors walking in the corridors of the school building . Sachin also went (with his dad) to the Mackenzie Community School Gym for his Karate class. After the activities at the Mackenzie Community School – both kids came back to nana/nani home parents – and the kids then spent the night at nana/nani home. This is because their mom was working next day (whole day from 9:00 am in the morning till 9:00 pm in the evening) and the school had a PD day (Friday off for kids) – thus kids were sort of free . So nana/nani got the privilege to baby-sit the kids – for the Thursday night and then the whole Friday next day.
Friday 03 February 2017
Wow, Sachin got up early in the morning ( when all others were sleeping) – around 5:30 am and by himself put on necessary lights and then skittered down to the computer room and got busy with his program – math additions etc,
This is how his nana found him when his nana got up at around 6:00 am.
During the day the kids and nana/nani went out in the new Nissan Rogue car – driven by their nana and went to post office – where kids helped to pick up packages – which had come in for the orders their mom had done on-line.
After shopping at Giant Tiger – all went to the Deep River library – to return a book earlier borrowed by Sitara (and another which was borrowed by their nana). Then each kid ( Sitara and Sachin) borrowed a fresh book to read at home.
After coming home – the kids and their nani sat down to watch a movie (selected by the kids) on the TV – till dinner time. After dinner , Sitara did the nail polish ( the nail polish kit was bought at Giant Tiger during day) – for her toes and her nani’s toes and then coxed her nana to have his toes nail polished. However, her nana resisted but eventually caved in and had his right foot big toe nail polished ( yellow color) , They continued watching a movie on TV until their mom came to pick them up ( just after 9.00 pm) – and driven home to Mackey.
Saturday 04 February2016
This day Sachin’s Deep River Team play Ice Hockey Tournament in Arnprior at 6:30 pm. There was no practice on Saturday morning because of the game.
This is what Sachin’s mom posted on her Facebool Wall (same date). :
” Deep River House Novice play their second last game of the regular season TONIGHT in Arnprior at 6:30pm! GoKnightsGo!! “
So Sachin left Deep River (driven by his mom in their new black car- 2016 VW Passat) at 4.00 pm from his nana/nani home ( having arrived there at 3:30 pm and picking up his nani -who was going with his mom to cheer him ) . His dad was to be remaining in Deep River – with Sitara who has skating session at Deep River Arena in the evening.
Note: Sachin’s mom posted on her Facebook Wall ( from Arnprior at 9:23 pm) the following:
” Deep River Novice House wins 5:1 in Arnprior! Last regular season game is at 9am Sunday morning bright and early ” . Congratulations! Sachin’s team won.
Before Sitara’s skating – during afternoon , both her and her dad went for downhill skiing at Mt. Martin Ski Hill. Her dad posted a photo of himself ( in his Ski patrol uniform) on his Facebook Wall.
Sunday 05 February 2016
Deep River House Novice (Sachin’s Ice HockeyTeam) — last game of the regular season is on Sunday (February 5th) gainst Pembroke. The game starts at 9:10 am at the Pembroke Memorial Centre. This is the arena downtown (393 Pembroke St. W).
This is what Sachin’s mom posted on her Facebook wall on Sunday 06 February 2017 — :
” Deep River House Novice played their last game of the regular season this morning in Pembroke at 9am! GoKnightsGo!! They tied 2:2 “.
Well done
Sunday 12 February 2017
Today it was a “Peace March” day in Deep River – organized by Allison & supported by the Unity In Diversity Group. This was in the context of recent attack on a Muslim Mosque in the Quebec City – in which six people lost their lives and many injured – shot by one Canadian while people were praying ( Right wing). The march was organized to show support for the Muslims as equal citizens of this beautiful country and oneness of all the citizens ( Canadians). Nina was one of the helpers to organize the event.
Sachin joined in the march along with his mom .
Also his nana/nani joined in the march – with a placard – stating ” Canadian Core Value – Humanity ” .
The march was starting at the Deep River Town hall – people walking to the Mosque building and there gathered to listen to various speeches and prayers . After that all were invited to a refreshment get-together at the Deep River Arena hall ( situated next door to the Mosque)
Sitara could not join as she was pre-occupied at the Mt. Martin Hill for her Snow Boarding session. She had gone to the Hill with her dad ( who is there one of the patrols) .
At 4.30 pm , Sachin had an ice Hockey game at the Arena . Sitara had come over to the Arena at that time along with her dad . Her dad helped Sachin to get ready for his Ice Hockey game – and nana/nani returned to their home.
Monday 13 February 2017
Today was Sachin’s Ice Hockey match with the team from Eganville .
Novice House Knights Playoff action at the Deep River Arena . To come out and root for the home team. vs Eganville . Game started at 6.00 pm.
Nana/nani could not go as they were in Pembroke – though nani went after coming back to home but by that time the game was over. However Novice House Knights won the game.
Tuesday 14 February 2017
It is the Valentine’s Day .
Nana/nani did not do much to-day but there will be a get together tomorrow at nana/nani home to celebrate our Valentines – our loving family which is here in this part of Ontario – though we will miss our Toronto family -as in harsh winter -it is a bit too far to travel.
Wednesday 15 February 2017
We celebrated our Valentine Day to-day with Sitara and Sachin and their parents.
Both Sitara and Sachin were looked after by nana/nani for the day – after they were dropped at nana/nani home early morning at 7.50 am by their dad. This was because their mom was working this day at Pembroke and thus would not be available to supervise them – at the school bus stop near their home. Their dad goes to work and thus has to leave home early too.
After breakfast at nana/nani home, the kids spent time with their nani – talking and watching TV . Then, they were driven to their school (Mackenzie Community School in Deep River) in nana’s new 2016 Nissan Rogue – both nana/nani went with them. However, before going to school – as there was lots of time in hand – the kids and their nani wanted to go shopping for decoration candies for the Valentine Cake and thus all went over to Valumart Grocery Store . Unfortunately, they did not find the specific candies – the type they wanted. Well, they took it all in stride and then dropped off at school at 9.30 am.
After school they were picked up by nana/nani (again by the new Nissan Rogue car) at 3.45 pm – the kids were already outside – the time the car came on the driveway of the school. After the school pick-up, Sitara wanted to go to the library – to borrow a reading book and after that she was to go to her art class (at 4.00 pm) – where she was dropped off after the library. Now with Sachin in the car – nana/nani and Sachin went to the local Bulk Store – to look for the cake decorating candies – but the store did not have these either and thus all came home.
Sachin spent time on the tablet while nani got busy cooking remainder of the dishes. Sitara was picked up from her art class by her dad and both came home after 5.00 pm.
This was ” kind of ” unusual day
1) Sachin lost one of his lower tooth while at the school – which he had preserved well and brought it home
2) North Renfrew Times (the local Deep River newspaper – published once a week on Wednesdays) – had published a photo of the Sunday Peace March/Walk – with nana holding the placard he had made and was holding ( Placard read – Canadian Core Value: Humanity ) and Nina and Sachin in the photo too.
3) Stuart Mclean – the Canadian Broadcasting Corp’s (CBC’s) science commentator – passed away at the age of 68.
When Nina arrived home after work (in Pembroke) – she had heard on the car radio about Stiart passing away – she was sad .
Nina and both the kids were sad about that as they liked listening to Stuart’s program.
This is what Nina posted on her Facebook Wall :
There are no words to explain this truly Canadian loss. He was in our homes EVERY week. He touched everyone he met. His words connected everyone around him. He just had a way , his way…. No one else will be able to fill his void. is what Nina posted on her Facebook Wall that evening:
It is with deep sadness that the Vinyl Cafe family announces that Stuart McLean passed away today, February 15th, 2017, at age 68.
We are heartbroken.
But we are also finding comfort in memories of our dear friend.
Stuart always emphasized that the world is a good place, full of good people, trying to do their best. He believed in people”™s extraordinary capacity for love and generosity. And he had faith in our ability to work together for the common good.
He was, in other words, firmly committed to celebrating the positive, joyful and funny side of life. Stuart assured us that even in difficult times, we can find things to be grateful for and ways to laugh. Now that he is gone, we will try hard to do just that.
Stuart connected us ”“ to our country and to each other. He entertained us, he made us think, he made us smile. Occasionally he made us cry. And, through all of that, he reminded us that life is made up of small moments. We never know which ones will be forgotten and which ones will stay with us forever.
So today, and hopefully every day, we”™re going to celebrate Stuart”™s life by trying to make each moment count and by being grateful for all of them.
We are certainly grateful for each and every moment we shared with Stuart.
We will miss him.
This is what Nina posted next day on her Facebook Wall :
” Tributes to Stuart McLean today…. I am so sad. I would play his podcasts with the kids in the car and at breakfast. They loved Dave and Morley. Like someone said today – we didn’t lose only Stuart. We lost Dave, Morley, Stephanie, Sam, the neighbours. …an entire village. He had so many more stories to tell “
After dinner, the family got together and Sitara became a tattoo artist – her mom had brought ” body tattoo pens ” home (from Pembroke) – bought at Dollerama store in Pembroke. She got her arm tattoo painted over by her mom first – and then she/Sitara tattoo painted her mom, nana and nani, dad and Sachin arm. She was so good – looped for designs from internet (using nana’s tablet) and sat on the chair like a professional artist and did her work very coolly and perfect. She tattoo painted an OM (Indian symbol) on nana’s left arm. All had fun.
After the tattaoo session was over, all gathered around the dining table – nani had made heart shape Valentine cake – and there were gifts for the kids – kiddie knick knacks . They were excited and each one opened the gift wrap for his/her gift packege . All had cake and had fun.
They left for home just after 8.30 pm. All in all – unusual day but there was lot of family fun.
All ended with both nana/nani getting hugs and hugs . Superb ending.
Friday 17 February 2017
Junior Music Club held its first concert of 2017 at the Childs Auditorium (Mackenzie Community School in Deep River) . There were some 23 performances.
Both Sitara and Sachin also performed at the concert – which began at 6.15 pm and ended at 7.05 pm .
All performances were piano playing by young music players.
Sachin was 12th performer of the evening – he played piano ” Halloween ” arr. Fletcher
and Sitara followed immediately after that – the 13th performer . She played ” The Birch Canoe ” arr. Fletcher.
Prior to the performance, all had come to nana/nani home and had dinner . This day Sunjay came home earlier as the there was a power cut/loss at his office – he was followed by Nina who had picked up the kids from the School. The kids played outdoors for a while – in the snow – already very high this year. Both Sitara and Sachin worked on their tunnel/igloo ( which they had dug earlier and kept at these whenever they come to nana/nani home ). Sachin also played on the snow pile – now built-up like a small hill – so he can go up and down – making a slide here and there.
Sunday 17 February 2017
This day both Sitara and Sachin went to Ottawa with their parents.
This is the e-mail their mom sent to their nana yesterday.
we are going to Ottawa tomorrow (sunday) to go to winterlude and the ice slides and watch a movie with the kids for family day weekend.
we are going to the ski hill in deep river on Monday afternoon to ski (me and the kids – sunjay at work) then the kids have piano and their hockey practice as usual.
you can join us in any of it. sorry that this is last minute for the winterlude. we will leave by 9am
Anyway nana/nani did not go – they decided to stay put in Deep River.
This day both Maya and Kieran were taken to the park by their dad – next to their home in Toronto – while Priya was looked after by her mom at home. Theirdad phoned Ba/Bapuji from the park and both Maya and Kieran talkeda nf and said Hi!.
Monday 20 February 2017
Sitara’s mom – Nina – posted the following on her Facebook Wall on Monday 20 February 2017 :
Save the Date!! Saturday February 25, 2017 at 5:10pm – The Deep River Synchroskate team will be hosting a Synchroskate show at the Deep River arena. The Petawawa teams will be joining. This is an AWESOME event. We participated in the Petawawa Ice Show recently and I was blown away with the performances. It will be an hour long show. Hope to see everyone there to support our local team!
Wednesday 22 February 2017
To-day is Priya’s 2nd-month birthday ( born on Thursday 22 Dec 2016) . He Bapuji sent an e-mail message ( this morning) to her c/o her mom& dad as below:
Hi our dearest Priya
We wish you the best 2nd month birthday.
We love you – our superstar.
We see you occasionally in photos but we look forward to see/coddle you, Kieran and Maya soon .
:):):)
Bapuji
And during the day her mom sent to all the relatives her photo (she sitting on the sofa – in the living room) with a white teddy bear ) – with a title : 2 months old and the following text :
” Priya is 2 months old today and weighed in at 12 lbs. She got her first set of vaccinations this afternoon. Now she is prepared for the crowds and germs of Great Wolf Lodge next week “
Priya looks so cute and focused at the camera.
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Sitara/Sachin were talking with nani in the car – when we picked them up from the school on Tuesday 21 February 2017 – re: planning for Kieran’s birthday party when he comes visiting the cousins – along with Maya and Priya – during school march break.
Here how the conversation went ( according to their nani) :
Friday 24 February 2017
It was freezing rain day and this is why school buses were cancelled in the afternoon – for kids to go home. Sitara and Sachin were picked up by their mom and then they came over to nana/nani home – joined by their dad a bit later (after his work). Due to freezing rain – Sachin’s ice hockey game was also cancelled. All had dinner at nana/nani home – and kids played with each other and adults – whatever was feasible at the moment. Sitara was also at the nana’s computer and while there watching her videos of kiddie program – she multi-tasked and prepared a nice Welcome Card for Priya ( her newest cousin sister )- who will soon be visiting Deep River (during March school break) – along with her brother Kieran and big sister Maya and their parents.
One of the play things that Sitara was busy was making a tent for fun in the living room .
Her mom added a photo of that on her Facebook collection of photo album 2016/2017 – with a comment :-
” Creepy when two pairs of eyes are poking out of the tent Nani and S are in together…”
Sachin and his parents went home (Mackey) – at about 8.00 pm – while Sitara stayed behind at nana/nani home for a sleep over . This is because next day Sachin has an ice hockey tournament at Pembroke early in the morning on Saturday( 9.00am) – so if Sitara goes home – she would have to wake up early together with the family and get ready and go with them to Pembroke . Staying at nana/nani home – she can get up in the morning a bit leisurely and relaxed. Besides- she is participating in the SynchroSkating show (Exhibition) at 5.10 pm on Saturday and thus she needs to have a relaxed time prior to the event.
Sitara went to sleep just after 9.00 pm – her nani taking care of her comfort and nana reading to her some four stories from a book ( Disney 365 Bedtime stories – a story a day) – which is her favorite story book whenever she has a sleep-over at nana/nani place . This is her book since she was 3 year old.
Saturday 25 February 2017
While Sachin was driven (from their home in Mackey) to Pembroke early morning by his parents – to play in the Ice Hockey tournament – Sitara was at her nana/nani home in Deep River – just having a relaxed morning.
Sachin & his parents returned to Deep River in the afternoon ( after the tournament – by the way their team lost 2-1) and joined Sitara at nana/nani home .
After some rest and Sitara got ready for her performance at the Arena – as part of the SynchroSkating show (Exhibition) at 5.10 pm .
All went to the Arena – first Nina and Sitara (driven by Sitara’s dad) – they went early in the afternoon about 4.00 pm – so Sitara can join her group of ice skaters (known as Deep River Ice Queens) – and get dressed and ready for the performance. After that Sachin got picked up by his dad and went to arena to watch the show – followed by nana/nani in their 2001 Dodge maroon minivan. The Synchro show had 13 items – 2 performed by Deep River Ice Queens and the rest performed by teams from Petawawa (along with three solo performances) . All had wonderful time . Good work, Sitara and the team ( Deep River Ice Queens). All of you were looking superb in your light blue uniforms and white hats. Good synchronized ice skating . The last item (of the 13 items) was ” FleshMob dance ” – when all skaters joined in for fun skate dancing .
Note: By the way, Sitara’s mom (Nina) is the volunteer treasurer with the Board of Directors for Synchro Skating in Deep River .
After the Synchro Skate program – nana/nani returned home for dinner while the kids and parents had dinner elsewhere. After dinner, all met together again at Kapil’s (his wife Nisha) home for Shivratri chanting .
The most wonderful miracle happen at the chanting session. After Sachin’s nani led the chant ( On Shiva, Om Shiva) – Sachin volunteered ( with a bit of prodding) to offer a song of his own (in English) – though not pertaining to Shiva but a smooth one – which enchanted the people in the room . Good work Sachin – you made nana/nani very proud)
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NOTE:
Lord Shiva
Shiva is the last deity of the Hindu Trinity. Lord Shiva represents the vital goodness in the form of Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram i.e.; Truth, Goodness and Beauty .Lord Shiva performs a celestial role of dissolution and recreation of the universe, that’s why; he is mostly associated with the words, like destroyer and destruction Literally, Shiva is one in whom the universe “sleeps” after destruction and before the next cycle of creation. All that is born, must die. All that is produced, must disintegrate and be destroyed. This law cannot be violated. The principle that brings about this disintegration, the power behind this destruction, is Shiva.
Another explanation of his role as destroyer is that we invoke Shiva to give us the capacity to destroy all our attachments and unwanted thoughts.He destroys our imperfections in order to ensure our spiritual progress. He destroys our illusions, desires and ignorance. He destroys our evil and negative nature. He destroys our old memories, so that we can move on with the movement of time. He destroys our relationships, attachment, impurities, physical and mental wrong doings, the effects of bad karma, our passions and emotions and many things that stand between us and God as impediments to our progress and inner transformation. And in the end when we have made sufficient progress, when we are ready and prepared, and when we are willing without any inner conflict, he destroys death.
Lord Shiva is known as the ”giver god”, lord of mercy and kindness. He always protects his devotees from evil forces like lust, greed and anger. He is the most kind -hearted God who grants boons and bestows grace to his devotees. Let us try to understand Shiva from different
standpoints. From the highest standpoint, Shiva is the formless, Absolute reality . Shiva’s name itself means auspiciousness. This is our own true nature.
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Note: By the way , coming Monday there is an opening of an Art Exhibition at Deep River Library ( art by young artists) – where Sitara’s painting (amongst others) will also be there displayed to the public.
This is what her mom posted on her Facebook Wall (dated 24 February 2017):
” Sitara will be participating in her second Art Exhibition – the Opening night is on Monday (27 February 2017) at the Deep River Library at 7pm – come support our children! ” – Teaching Artist professional is – Olga Nazarkina
This is on Olga Nazarkina ‘s Facebook Wall :
From Olga Nazarkina
” Hello everyone. I would like to invite everyone to our exhibition. There will be 30 young artists from 5 till 15 year old. There will be more than 200 artworks like paintings with watercolor, acrylics, oil, silk scarves, sculptures, and much more.
At the reception we will announce 5 winners of international contests. The reception is 27th of February at 7 pm. The exhibition will last till March 25. Please come and share this post “
Sunday 26 February 2017
Today in Toronto, Kieran & his two sisters (Maya and Priya) and parents were at their grandparents ( maternal – Kathy and Doug) home in Toronto to celebrate Doug’s birthday . So they also took this opportunity to celebrate Kieran’s 3rd Birthday . This is kind of necessity as Kieran’s grandparents were planning to go to Chile for holidays in the coming days and then would miss Kieran’s birthday. So this as the time to celebrate Kieran’s birthday there in Toronto.
Note: Chile, officially the Republic of Chile a South American country occupying a long, narrow strip of land between the Andes to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Kieran will get another birthday party on 12 March 2017 – when he and the family will be visiting Deep River to their paternal grandparents ( Kieran/Maya and Priya’s Ba and Bapuji) home and also their cousins Sitara and Sachin in Mackey ( which is a short distance from Deep River)
Priya’s first visit outside Toronto is imminent – as she will going with her brother Kieran and the big sister Maya to Niagara Falls (NF) , Ontario with their parents . I guess it will also be Kieran’s first visit to NF – though Maya did visit NF in 2011 along with her parents and also with Ba and Bapuji at that time.
Priya will be arriving to Deep River on Saturday 11 March 2017 with her parents and siblings – to visit her Ba and Bapuji and also her cousins Sitara and Sachin and their parents ( her Faiba (aunt) and Fuva (uncle) ).
On Sunday 12 March , there will be a party organized at her Ba/Bapuji home – to welcome Priya and also to celebrate Kieran’s 3rd Birthday ( Kieran born on 12 March 2014 ).
All three kids (Priya, Kieran and Maya) to spend next two days ( Monday and Tuesday) at Mackey with their cousins Sitara and Sachin. Will be returning to Toronto on Wednesday 15 March 2017.
Monday 27 February 2017
Wow! what a colorful Art Exhibition . Sitara amongst other young artists had their paintings exhibited at the Deep River Library basement room. There were so many people who turned up for the opening of the Exhibition – by the students of Olga Nazarkina. Sitara had 6 of her paintings exhibited on the wall – in her group of paintings . Also had another painting ( the Ghost) on the windowsill ( opposite to the wall where her 6 paintings were exhibited ) . This painting was amongst other paintings on that windowsill .
There were talks and a dance demonstrated by a young artist (girl artist) – well done . Also certificates were distributed to each of Olga’s students, Sitara also got hers.
Sachin was also attending and had a swell of a time.
Wednesday 1 March 2017
This day Nina was working in Pembroke and thus kids (Sitara and Sachin) came Deep River nana/nani home in the morning – had their breakfast and had some time with nana/nani – after that they were driven to the school by nana & nani . However as it was nana/nani’s social bridge day at the DR Library in the afternoon , it was a bit difficult to pick up kids at the school at 3.40 pm – as the card game finishes at around 4.00 pm .
But Sachin had mentioned to his nana a week before that we need not have to worry as he can walk to the library after the school and meet his nana/nani there – and Sitara acan walk to her art class (from where she would be picked by her dad at 5.00 pm). The Mackenzie Community School is just behind the Deep River Library – and this it is simpler to walk to the library from the school – except Sachin likes to play a bit – especially in the snow – so has a tendency to wonder off or takes his own time.
So all have had agreed with this arrangement as the kids are now mature enough for this freedom of movement.
So on Wednesday 1 March 2017 – Sachin walked by himself to the library from the school ( though his nani was outside to look for him to arrive ) and Sitara went to her art class (at Olga’s home) .
All worked well. Sachin was then picked by his dad at around 4.45 pm before they go to pick up Sitara and then go home to Mackey. Their mom to join them there after her end of workday.
Wednesday 1 March 2017
Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls Ontario – This is where Maya, Kieran and Priya spent time – as a family time with their parents ( Shannon and Sunir) – a pleasant way to shed off winter blues .
This is what their mom said in the e-mail ( with some photos) sent on Thursday 2 March 2017 :
” We are having a “great wolf” time, as they say here! Priya went for her first swim today (up to her tummy!), Kieran went on two kids water slides by himself (a big accomplishment for him!), and Maya the adventurer has been enjoying lots of water slides, wave pool, etc. Magi-quest (an adventure game with wands) has also been a big hit. Later today we will try bowling “
Friday 03 March 2017
Sitara/Sachin mom posted on her Facebook Wall – the following reference to North Renfrew Times (of Wednesday 01 March 2017) – along with the photo of the Deep River Ice Queen members :
” SYNCHRO SHOW: Members of the “Deep River Ice Queens” get ready to perform at a special synchronized skating show at the Deep River Arena last Saturday. The Deep River Skating Club will hold its end of year show – “Ice Reflections 2017” – next Tuesday, March 7 at 5:30 pm. Everyone is welcome. ”
Also a message from her:
” The Ice Queens compete at the Eastern Ontario Synchro Skate competition in Ottawa tomorrow! Wish them luck! I will have a better photo of ALL of the members! ”
Saturday – 04 March 2017
So Sitara was part of the Deep River Ice Team – participating in the Eastern Ontraio Synchro competition held at Kanata ( Ottawa ) this morning . In their group there were 5 teams competing .
Here is what her mom posted on her Facebook Wall ( in the evening of Saturday 04 March 2017 ) :
” The Ice Queens – Synchronized Skating Team from Deep River win Bronze at the Eastern Ontario SynchroSkate Competition!!!!!!!! Pics to follow. ”
Sunday 05 March 2017
Today , Sachin had an ice hockey tournament at Eganville – so he was driven there early in the morning by his parents ( in their new 2016 VW Passat car ) . Sitara also went with him to cheer him at the tournament .
Sachin’s team Deep River Knights won the first two games – so they got to play in the finals at the tournament. Unfortunately they lost that game. However, Deep River team came second – which is great.
Tuesday 07 March 2017
Today, both Sitara and Sachin had busy schedule last couple of days – for Sitara first – it was choir at The Festival Hall in Pembroke in the morning of Monday 06 March 2017 and then in the evening of Tuesday 07 March 2017 Sitara is participating in the ” Ice Reflections 2017 ” program at the Deep River arena starting at 5.15 pm.
It so happened that the Choir was cancelled due to adverse weather (freezing rain) – which is now reorganized for Thursday (09 March 2017) morning.
Sitara participated in the “Ice Reflections 2017 ” organized by the Deep River Skating Club.
Both nana/nani went to watch then program at the Deep River Arena.
There were some 21 Items on the program. Sitara’s first item was 12th – its called Junior Improve – 3 budding skaters performing — Sitara Mistry, Molly Smith and Manar Shaban.
Then her second item was 19th – SynchroSkate – by Deep River Ice Queens . Sitara is part of the Deep River Ice Queens team and the team does participate in presenting SynchroSkate at a couple of venues in Renfrew County . They did splendid this night. The final was just ‘ Finale” – All Skaters are on the ice – just doing their jigs for fun .
Sachin had an Ice Hockey Tournament at Pembroke (at PMC – Pembroke Memorial Center) in the evening of Tuesday 07 March 2017 starting at 7.00 pm . Sachin’s Team ( Deep River Novice Knights ) won the tournament and now will be going for finals . However, prior to going to Pembroke ( driven by his dad) Sachin was at the Deep River Arena to watch some of the events in the “Ice Reflections 2017 “.
Sachin’s mom could not go to Pembroke as she remained behind to watch Sitara and then look after her and take her home after the program.
Here is what Sitara/Sachin’s mom posted on her Facebook Wall (of 07 march 2017)
“ Fantastic night all around. Sitara’s trio skated the most beautiful Junior Improve Ice routine and Sachin’s hockey team won the 2nd round of the Playoffs against Pembroke.
Deep River Novice Knights go on to the Finals! ”
Sitara’s mom also posted a fantastic video of the Junior Improve.
Here is what she wrote in the message:
” Sitara, Manar and Molly’s Junior Improv Routine at the End-of-life Ice Reflections Show March 7, 2017 – Sitara is in purple ”
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Sachin
On Wednesday 08 March 2017 – Deep River and Area Minor Hockey Association published on their Website the following :
Novice House Reaches ‘ A ‘ Final at Eganville Tournament
Novice House does well in Eganville
Novice House Reaches ‘ A ‘ Final at Eganville Tournament
The Novice House team played their third final of the season at the tournament in Eganville on Sunday, March 5th. The Knights started the day with a thrilling 3 ”“ 2 overtime victory against the Nepean Crushers. They then defeated the Petawawa Black Wolves 4 ”“ 2 to reach the ”˜A”™ final. In the final, the Knights lost a tight 3 ”“ 2 game against the hosts, Eganville Eagles. Congratulations to the Eagles on winning their home tournament.
The Knights are pictured on the ice after the final game. Back row (left to right): Jesse Weaver (Head Coach), Dan Graham (Coach), Martin Smith (Manager), Todd Lesperance (Coach). Players standing (left to right): Austin Barker, Sebastien Gale, Jackson Carrette, Ben Lesperance, Callum Smith, Haylie Graham, Lyndon Broome, Hunter Lushman, Griffin Nolette. Players kneeling (left to right): Ryland Poirier, Lucas Wilson, Max Alookie, Sachin Mistry, Macy Meilleur, Teryn Weaver, Wyatt Fitton. (Absent: Jacob Hogue.)
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Also another note by Deep River and Area Minor Hockey Association :
Novice House team are going to the 2016/17 ”˜B”™ Division playoff finals
The Novice House team are going to the 2016/17 ”˜B”™ Division playoff finals against Renfrew Novice 3. After finishing fifth in the ”˜B”™ Division, the Knights have had a tough run to the finals. In the first round, they defeated second-placed Eganville after two games, winning 6 ”“ 3 in Eganville and 3 ”“ 2 in Deep River. In the second round, the Knights won a three-game series against fourth-placed Pembroke Novice 3. After a tough 1 ”“ 2 loss in Pembroke, the Knights triumphed 3 ”“ 2 in Deep River, before returning to Pembroke and taking the series with a 4 ”“ 2 victory.
The series against Renfrew will begin after the March break. Come cheer on the team as they attempt to take the ”˜B”™ Division trophy.
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Sitara
Also on Wednesday 08 March 2017 – North Renfrew Times published a photo of the Deep River Ice Queens (2017) team members . They were all girl members & identified :
Clara Issaluk, Molly Smith, Maha Saleem, Isabelle Nolette, Emma Whan, Taylor Fitton , Emily Qin, Maria Popistas, Felicity Cull, Manar Shaban, Sitara Mistry and Zainab Rizvi.
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Wednesday 08 March 2017
This day Sachin was picked up from school by his nani – leaving her bridge game for a few minutes . So Sachin got to come to the bridge game and watch nana/nani play . Sachin is very observant and conversationalist – so he got along/answering any questions with smile and pleasant demeanor – with nana’s other colleagues .
After the bridge game. Sachin wanted to go to Valumart Grocery Store in Deep River to choose the motif for Kieran’s birthday cake. Both the kids (Sitara and Sachin have been talking about Kieran’s birthday party since many days . They have prepared a welcome card for Priya and a Birthday card for Kieran and are planning for games for the Kieran’s Birthday Party on 12 March 2017.
So three amigos ( Sachin and his nana/nani) trundled off to Valumart -where Sachin went through all the designs for the Birthday Cake – and finally agreed to keep the cake shape (round) and color on the side (green) as per nana’s Birthday Poem card – but at the top to place a motif chosen/picked by Sachin – from the Valumart bakery catalogue. Mission accomplished – nana will pick up the cake on Sunday afternoon – before the party begins at 4.00pm.
Sachin was brought back to the Library – from where his dad picked him up and then they went and picked Sitara from her art class and after that they all went to Mackey (home) . Their mom will join them after her work is finished at about 6.00 pm .
Thursday 09 March 2017
School Choir Competition- 69th Pembroke Music Festival – supposed to be on Tuesday 07 March 2017 but due to adverse weather ( icy Freezing rain) – it was postponed to Thursday 09 March 2017.
Sitara was part of Junior Elementary Group ( Gr.1 to 5) -from Mackenzie Community School, Deep River.
A total of 3 schools participated for this event.
St Francis of Assisi School
Our Lady of Sorrow School &
Mackenzie Community School
All sang well with great concentration and gusto. But, the judges proclaimed Mackenzie Choir group to be the first ( 1st) . Bravo Sitara and the Mackenzie Community School Junior Elementary Choir Group.
Nana/nani also went to Pembroke to watch the performance – of course the whole Mistry family (including Sachin) were there to cheer the Choir Group.
Saturday 11 March 2017
This is an important day – as Priya’s first visit ( after her birth on 22 December 2016 in Toronto) to Renfrew County ( where Mackey and Deep River are located) .
Priya with her parents and siblings ( Maya – big sister and Kieran – big brother) will be driving in their silver Subaru Outback from Toronto and will first stop over at Mackey at her Foi (nina) and Fuva ( Sunjay) house and there she, Kieran and Maya will be welcomed by their cousins (Sitara and Sachin) . The family will stay overnight at Mackey and then will come to Deep River ( to their Ba/bapuji home) on Sunday 12 March 2017.
En route to Mackey, Priya’s parents drove the family via Huntsville -where they had a lunch hour break with Priya’s great great grandma Opal ( Shannon’s maternal grandma) . Opal stays at Huntsville.
Note: Priya/Kieran/Maya’s Toronto grandparents ( maternal grandparents) have gone to Chile ( a South American -warm/sunshine country on holidays – while the kisds travelled to Deep River to be with their other grandparents, cousins and Foi/Fuva.
This is the day for Kieran’s 3rd birthday and his Ba/Bapuji have organized a Birthday party for him this day – so Kieran will get a surprise. Also along with Kieran’s Birthday celebration, Ba/Bapuji will also celebrate Priya’s first visit to Deep River – hence Priya Welcome Party. a combined do. Many East Indians Community friends have been invited along with Sunir’s Canadian family friend.
Today Sitara along with her mom attended a Baby Shower party for Leena. She got married recently -a month ago . Leena is daughter of one of our East Indian friend in Deep River – though Leena lives in Kanata and work (teaches) in Arnprior.
Sitara’s nani was also at the Baby Shower and she noted that Sitara (when free from partying) was busy preparing for party games (for Kieran’s 3rd Birthday party on Sunday at her nana/nani home) . The three party games the kids are planning are :
Ӣ pin the button on the robot game planned
Ӣ a popping balloon game planned.
Ӣ the toilet paper game .
Sunday 12 March 2017
To-day is Kieran’s 3rd Birthday .
Though Kieran and his siblings ( big sister Maya and little sister Priya) – along with their parents- spent the night (sleep-over) at their Foi/Fuva home in Mackey – they all are to come to Deep River on Sunday after lunch. The Birthday party is organized to be starting at 4.00 pm – and that time an official welcome to Priya to Deep River will also be celebrated.
Wow ! the party was a smash – well enjoyed by all family members and friends . There were a total of 6 families who were at the party .
These are as listed below
Leela/Ken – also Leena (their daughter who got married recently and now expecting a baby)
Liz/Mani
Laxmi
Lydia/Martin with her 5 kids – Sunir’s friend from school days
Teresa/Peter
Nina/Sunjay with her two kids ( our grandkids -Sitara and Sachin )
Shannon/Shannon – Kieran’s parents – with her three kids ( our grandkids – Maya, Kieran and Priya – the newest addition to the family)
Jackie/Pravin – the hostess of the party for welcoming Priya to Deep River and for Kierans’ 3rd birthday.
Sitara and Sachin had come earlier (just after lunch) – and they were immediately playing with Maya , Kieran and Priya. Sitara is just ga ga with Kieran and kind of big sisterly looks after entertaining him. Sitara also loves Priya -so does Sachin. Both try to cuddle her but mostly Sachin loves playing with Maya.
Sitara helped by her mom and dad prepared balloons for “balloon popping game” and then had one of her paintings ( of a robot ) stuck on the living room wall – for ” pin the button on the robot ” game.
In fact the kids played 4 games – sort of organized by Sitara ( but helped by her parents) . The additional game was ” the fart/noise machine – a sort of noise maker ” – which as that the machine was passed by each kid to the next kid – and when it does croak a noise – the kid holding it lost.
There were two cakes – from the Valumart (local grocery store) bakery – baked to the designs picked by the hostess and helped by Sachin . Kieran’s cake was of a special design matching the green cake on the “poem” card prepared by his Bapuji . The poem (by his Bapuji) for 3rd birthday for Kieran went well – everyone liked it – though difficult for Kieran to comprehend at this age and again he was so engrossed enjoying the various gifts which were given to him by family and friends .
Priya’s cake was cut with great fanfare as well as an impromptu “Welcome To Deep River” song. Kieran’s cake was lighted up with candles and Kieran did all the blowing off the candle and making the first cut/slice of the cake.
After all games , cake cutting and general merriment – the party ended at about 9.00 pm – at that point each kid was given a parting gift -a large Easter chocolate egg .
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Here is the Poem Kieran’s Bapuji wrote for the occasion – part of the Birthday Card :
Kieran’s 3rd Yr Birthday Poem – 12 March 2017
Our Kieran is now 3 years old
So bubbly and active
Our macho guy playing with
train sets and truck toys
Our progeny with two sisters
Big sister Maya and Little sister Priya
Our prince with Canadian values
Kieran will explore the whole world
Our smooth guy always loving
So polite with a charming smile
Our cuddly teddy celebrating
His 3rd birthday in Deep River
Your cousins Sitara and Sachin
With love babble a lot about you
You are amazing grandson
With lots of kisses and hugs
Happy birthday to You.
We love you ! Kieran.
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Monday 13 March 2017
Maya, Kieran and Priya – all woke up early as per their normal schedule . After breakfast and some playing with Ba/Bapuji – all went over to Deep River Arena at about 11.00 am- where they will be joined by Sitara and Sachin for ice skating. Kieran also helped Ba to do some vacuuming of carpet in the Living Room – he has style – singing while vacuuming. He was using a light vacuum cleaner ( which was non working – sort of)
After lunch , Sitara , Sachin and Maya along with Nina and Shannon went for a swim at the Mackenzie Pool (Deep River) – though Kieran went to the pool but did not swim but stayed with his Ba on the bench. Priya stayed home having her snooze – being watched by her dad (who stayed home to work on his business work). Bapuji was also stayed at home having his rest .
After coming from swimming , the kids played together various games and Sachin/Maya played on the computer for a bit. Priya was coddled by her Foi.
After dinner ( sort of haphazardly by Sachin, Sitara, Kieran & his mom as well as Maya – though Sachin’ss dad did not have dinner – which he will have after Sachin’s Ice Hockey practice) – Sachin was driven by his parents to DR Arena for his Ice Hockey practice .
Maya went with them to cheer/watch Sachin practice for his ice hockey.
The others ( SunirMama, ShannonMami, Nana & nani ) in the family then had dinner – and after that SunirMama, ShannonMami, Sitara , Kieran and also Priya went to the DR Arena in SunirMama’s car to watch Sachin playing as well as to cheer his team.
After the Ice Hockey practice – all spent family time together at Deep River home before Sitara/Sachin went to their home – with their parents.
Tuesday 14 March 2017
This was a busy day for the kids and the family members . Sachin arrived early to Deep River ( at his nana/nani home) with his dad – about 8.00 am and Sitara came later at about 11.00 am with her mom.
The kids played in the snow bank outside in front of the nana/nani home – they had sticks of coloured chalk (of various hues) – provided by grandma. Sachin made a good design on the snow – so did Sitara , Kieran and Maya. That was very healthy outdoor activity for the kids. After lunch – all went to the Deep River Library – to look at the art work (by Olga’s students) displayed there. Sitara had some 7 art paintings displayed at the show/exhibit- her SunirMama and ShannonMamai were very proud of her work. Maya and Kieran had a great fun looking at the various paintings . Well, Priya did what she does best at this stage in her life – she remained quiet and slept .This was her visit to an art show.
After coming back from the Library – all decided to enjoy “Holi” day- this is an Indian celebration by throwing colors/powder at each other and have fun. So all were outdoors – and the kids ( its quite interesting – as to how kids are resourceful – they collected snow powder ( earlier colored by chalk sticks) in various containers and lined them up along the outdoor patio in the front . All used this snow powder to throw at each other and have family fun.
Nina posted photos on her Facebook Wall – of Holi Playing/celebration outdoors at grandparents’Deep River home ( on 18 March 2017) with a comment:
” Making buckets of coloured snow – When in Canada you make an Indian Festival fit winter!”
After the “Holi” fun- all got ready and went to Bears Den ( a restaurant on Hwy 17) -at about 6.30 pm- to join in a Birthday Party for 1 year old Aaryan – whose parents have organized this party . The kids had great fun. Sitara, Sachin, and Kieran took part in various games for the kids – so did adults also in games for adults .
Priya was coddled by few of the people at the party but as usual she was a good girl for her age -and remained sleeping most of the time -so allowing her parents free time to enjoy the party.
After dinner – Maya, Kieran and Priya returned home early with their parents as it was getting to be their sleep time .
Sitara/Sachin were at the party longer and participated in more games till their parents called it a day and drove back to Mackey at around 10:00 pm. Grandparents returned to their home last around 11:00 pm.
Wednesday 15 March 2017
This day became an interesting one – Maya’s Foi had arranged to take all the kids to Pottery Class in Deep River – so Sitara, Sachin went with their mom – along with their nani and Maya, Keran and Priya were driven to the Pottery Class by their mom . Again Sunir stayed home – so did grandpa.
Kids had time to work on a couple of items along with adults. Maya/Kieran seem to enjoy this outing – of course Sitara and Sachin are regular . Priya did her usual nice gesture – of remaining calm and happy.
This is what Nina posted on her Facebook Wall (on 18 March 2017) – photos of the kids creation:
– Maya’s Cat – Kids pottery lesson during March Break
– Sachin’s Penguin on an Island – Kids pottery lesson during March Break
– Sachin’s Hathi (Elephant) – Kids pottery lesson during March Break
– Sitara’s Cat Fish – Kids pottery lesson during March Break
– Kieran’s Bear – Kids pottery lesson during March Break
After, the pottery class -all came home – had lunch and then Maya/Kieran and Priya along with their parents said adios to family members here in Deep River area and drove away in their silver Subaru Outback car to their home in Toronto – they have planned to stop over at Huntsville (en route) to meet with Shannon’s maternal grandma ( Opal ) – who lives in Huntsville.
During the visit we got to know that Maya has completed her “Ballet” class and Kieran can recite the arwhole ” a..b..c..d..e ” alphabet – a year old kid -so charming and lovable.
Thursday 16 March 2017
When we got up this morning, the house was quiet and empty.
Priya came , conquered and left – so did Kieran and Maya. Their cousins Sitara and Sachin were the best host and company to the kids . All played so wonderfully together . Kieran’s 3rd birthday party was celebrated well with gusto . Both Sitara and Sachin made cards and chose the motif of the birthday cake – thought out wonderful games for the party and prepared all the details and then played well . All kids (family and friends) enjoyed the games – had good times .
Now after they left for Toronto – the grandparents house feels like an “empty nest”.
Then we had an e-mail (just in time ) from Shannon ( with Maya’s modelling photo – with the outfit her Ba/Bapuji gave her)
” Here is Maya modelling her new outfit this morning. Thanks for a great visit and for all the generous gifts! ”
To that Bapuji responded as below:
Thanks Shannon.
” To-day its like ” an empty nest ” here – so this Maya’s modellng help cheer us up tremendously.
We all had a great time – so we may have to do that sometime again
regards ” :):):)
miss the magic smile from Kieran and our Priya is very pretty and cool.
Bapuji pravin ”
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday 18 March 2017
This day (in the morning) Sachin had a ice hockey tournament at Renfrew – so his parents drove him there – leaving – en route – at DR home all the gear for skiing in the afternoon . Sitara had a sleep-over (Friday night) at her friend Reese’s home in Deep River -and both these girls were dropped off at nana/nani home by Reese’s parents at about noon. Sachin and his parents arrived back from Renfrew by 1.00 pm.
The news was that Sachin’s team ( Deep River Novice Knights Team) won the tournament 3-1 against the Renfrew Novices. Good work but more important news – Sachin made a goal ( 2nd of the three goals by his team ) . This is first of the season. The guy is getting in the ice hockey form and Well done.
This is what his mom posted on her Facebook Wall (on 18 March2017):
” Deep River Novice Knights House team wins the first game of the Playoff Finals against Renfrew 3:1 AND Sachin gets his first GOAL! A fantastic way to start the day”
Nana is very proud of the moment . It seems the Canadian life is really seeping into the immigrant family. When our son Sunir played hockey – many years ago – though he enjoyed it but was not keen as at that time ice hockey was a bit rough game.
Then at 1.30 pm afternoon – the whole Mistry family along with Sitara’s friend Reese – all went to the St. Martin Hill ) in Deep River for their afternoon downhill skiing .
Sunday 19 March 2017
Maya/Kieran and Priya all went to their great Grandma Rae’s condo for dinner – this was to join their grandparents ( Kathy and Doug) and Heather/Ryan family with Ryan at the dinner . Their grandparents (Kathy and Doug) had just come back from Chile – on Saturday (yesterday ) having spent about a couple of weeks there.
It was beautiful day and weather was nice for skiing – so Sitara/Sachin and their parents went to Calabogie for skiing – they had an excellent time there.
Here is what Nina posted on her today’s Facebook Wall :
” What a great day skiing at Calabogie Peaks! The weather was perfect for exploring all of the hill ” .
Monday 20 March 2017
To-days ice hockey match between Deep River Novice Knights against Renfrew Novice team was thrilling and fun watching the tiny players on the ice, Both teams were good and really playing with gusto. However the score was 6-1 – Deep River Knights winning. Sachin was part of the Deep river team . Both nana/nani were at the audience – and enjoyed the evening play.
Here is what his mom had posted on her Facebook Wall :
” They WON! The Deep River Knights Novice hockey team are the B Division Champions!! What a fantastic team and bunch of coaches these kids have. They have grown so much this year. So happy for them. They win on home. “
Tuesday 21 March 2017
This morning both Sitara and Sachin came to nana/nani home early in the morning before foing o school. Their dad dropped them – their mom is going to work in Pembroke (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – so both Sitara and Sachin will come to nana/nani home – have their breakfast and spend time with nana/nani before they are driven to school by nana/nani.
Today they played Candy Land game with nana/nani and also spend time to read book ( Sitara) and Sachin playing with a truck. pr two. In the car both were humming song and were in good spirit. This is such a bliss to have them at our home and we enjoy their company but mostly their manners and happy spirit.
Both days , nani will pick them up from the school.
So Wednesday, nani left her Bridge Card game (at the Library) just few minutes before the school ends (at 3.40 pm) and then went/drove to the Mackenzie School (which is located just behind the Library) and picked up both Sitara and Sachin from the school. When returning back to the Library game room – she detoured and dropped Sitara at her art class ( at Olga’s residence) and Sachin came with his nani to the Library game room and sat next to his nana and watched the Bridge Play – till the game was over and after that all three went to nana/nani home. Sitara was picked up by her dad at 5:00 pm .
Friday 24 March 2017
This day Mistry family went first to Trout Creek and then to North Bay late in the evening ( after school and workday) – this is because Sachin was to participate in Ice Hockey tournament (as part of Deep River Knights novice team) – on Saturday – two games. They stayed night in North Bay.
Note: There are 26 miles or 42 km from Trout Creek to North Bay . It would take about 28 mins by car between Trout Creek and North Bay .
Here is what his mom posted on her Facebook Wall on 25 March 2017 :
” They won 7-0 against Cobden Friday night in Trout Creek
Today (Saturday) at 12:30pm they lost a tough game against West Nippising 3-2 in Trout Creek
They went in the outdoor pool just now for a winter swim and a dip into a hot tub.
Now we go for a team dinner at 3:30pm then they play again at 7:30pm tonight in North Bay
More info tonight
Nina ”
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Sitara’s paintings at the Art Exhibition
By the way, the art exhibition (by children who were coached by Olga) in the Deep River Library Program Room was ended on Friday 24 March 2017 – so nana/nani went on Saturday morning (25 March2017) to the Library and collected all of Sitara’s art work (paintings) and brought these to nana/nani home – when Sitara and family were in North Bay .
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Saturday 25 March 2017
The Ice Hockey Tournament continued in North Bay and after that the next game is on Sunday in South River.
Here is what Sachin’s mom posted on her Facebook Wall (to-day):
” They won tonight’s game 2-1. It was a very hard game!
They are 6th out of 14 teams at the moment.
They play at 8:30am in South River Sunday morning now.”
Nina
Well done Deep River novices. Congratulations to the team and also Sachin.
Results of Game In South River (on Sunday 25 March 2017)
Here is what Sachin’s mom sent by an e-mail to-day :
” They got to the quarter finals and it was tough. They fought hard and lost 2-1 against a team that won their league in the regular season so they were not sad but proud 🙂 That was their last game until September now ”