Tuesday, 28 April 2009
burns fire!!!!
The phone continued to ring. I went to attend the call. It was my brother. After five minutes, when I came to kitchen, the scene was frightening. The frying pan was on fire. I had forgotten to simmer the flame while going to attend the phone. Thick smoke filled the room. I some how swiched off the stove. Even after that, fire continued to dance over the pan. For a few seconds I didn't know what to do. Pouring water will be dangerous. I put a lid on to the frying pan. Slowly the fire got put off after this.
I thanked God profusely, for saving me from the imminent danger. I opened the windows and doors, came out of the house for fresh air. Slowly everything got settled. I felt the need for a small fire extinguisher in every home particularly in flats. Definitely I am going to procure one.
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Calicut - real queen, hats off
I called my another friend who is organizing the get together of my batch. To my joy, he had already arranged an innova from Hotel Renaissance, Palayam. I made up my mind to get out of this den. I set out towards Palayam. The road was full of petty vendors collecting there goods particularly fruits. The union leaders and others were shouting at the height of there voice. Small teashop was having heavy business. People were relishing there morning tea and 'Pathiri' a calicut specialty.
I wanted to eat some thing. Went directly to Hotel Ansar. Took some time for the waiter to recognize me. 'Noolputtu' (noodles) and egg curry was served. I wanted to have a tea but could not fulfill the desire as my watch showed I am running short of time.
I inquired to one taxi driver the whereabouts of Hotel Renaissance. Calicut people are very special in this regard. They will be ready to help you and see that you reach the correct spot. Same phenomena recurred. When I was standing near the entrance of the hotel I could recognize my older friends passing by even though could not exactly decipher the names.
We reached the place where the actual get together was arranged. Greeted by my friends whom I could, by Gods grace could recognize. Some have lost there hair and grown there paunch. Most of them have built there family in strength. Minimum was two kids. I could not find the basic instinct of some, who were considered as chronic irritants. Very polished, speaking only relevantly.
I returned back to calicut town with my soul full. I could spent time again, as a student among my friends. I went to KR Bakery in Palayam. From there went to Jaya auditorium, Tali to meet another friend and his family. I preferred to walk. No much changes.
He took me to his house where I took my food. I had luck to visit calicut beach. We both sat on the newly structured beach wall. Even though time was over 11pm people were still there on the beach, thanks to the humid climate. Except for a clash (minor) with a drunk beggar who wanted fiscal help, which we summarily rejected, everything went on well.
My return train came in the fourth platform, which I was unaware of the existence. There also calicutian helped. I rushed towards the new platform through the neo-overbridge. Luckily I got the train......
Monday, 19 January 2009
Watermelon tips
I was wondering how to buy a perfect watermelon. I ventured in to the internet jungle.
http://www.almanac.com/food/watermelontips.php
Came across the above webpage.......
When shopping for the perfect whole specimen, look for a symmetrical round, oval, or oblong watermelon with a buttery yellow underbelly. Pick it up -- it should feel heavy for its size, which tells you it is juicy and fresh. Avoid melons with soft spots or bruises. And although the rind should have a healthy sheen, color isn't a good guide to ripeness. Depending on the variety, a fine, ripe melon can vary from deep emerald green to very light green to various shades of green with pronounced stripes.
If you prefer to buy a smaller, cut melon, choose one with a bright color and firm-looking flesh. Don't buy it if it looks mealy or water-soaked.
Put the whole watermelon into the sink, gently wash with cool water, and dry with paper towels before cutting.
Store uncut watermelon at room temperature for longest life. It will stay fresh-tasting and sweet for up to two weeks after you purchase it if you keep it around 60°F. In hot weather, use it within a week.
If you have leftover cut melon, refrigerate it in an airtight container, or wrap loosely with plastic. Use within two days.
Never cook watermelon flesh; it loses texture and flavor when it is heated.
Be careful not to chop watermelon too fine or be too aggressive when chopping; it will disintegrate.
A watermelon won't grow in your stomach if you swallow a seed or two, but remove what you can to make it easier to eat. Or leave a few in. The world record for watermelon seed-spitting is held by Lee Wheelis, who propelled the winning seed 68 feet, 9-1/8 inches during the Luling Watermelon Thump festival in Texas in 1989.
The average melon yields about 1/2 cup of seeds. Put them into a skillet with 1/4 cup water and a sprinkling of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring, for about 10 minutes, until the water evaporates and the seeds are toasted and have lost all their moisture. Cool and use to garnish your next salad.
Watermelons are well named: They are 92 percent water. Fat free as well, a 2-cup serving contains 90 calories and is a good source of vitamins A and C.
Thanks for the tips. Great job ........



