CARROT PEANUTS RAITHA:

காரட் வேர்க்கடலை ரெய்தா


This is a tasty raitha and a very good accompaniment for light type of pulao varieties. It also goes well with sandwiches. The roasted peanuts make the difference.


Ingredients:


Carrots-2
Small garlic flakes-2
Green chilli [de-seeded]-1
Peanuts- 50gms
Fresh curd-3 cups
Finely chopped coriander-2 tbsp
Crushed tomato- half cup
Salt to taste


Procedure:
Shred the carrots finely.
Dry roast the peanuts and remove the skins.
Powder the peanuts in to a slightly coarse texture.
Grind the garlic and the green chilli finely.
Mix the shredded carrots, ground paste, powder, coriander leaves, and the tomatoes with enough salt.
Beat the curd and mix in the vegetable mixture.
Delicious Carrot peanuts raitha is ready!

window boxes

In celebration of spring we built window boxes and put up a flag. The shutters are also new [to the blog].



The bottom is lined with copper flashing to add some interest (to otherwise perfectly fabulous window boxes). We're looking forward to a patina surface as this ages.



We built and installed these ourselves. There is nothing too ingenious here. After measuring and sketching out a few design ideas we picked up the materials for about $250. Note: the copper flashing was $40 alone. This could be left out of the process if you're okay with mediocrity.

After making all the necessary cuts, we set up a painting station on the pool table. Even though we used pressure treated lumber we figured some extra weather protection was appropriate. Every side of every piece was painted. Two coats with exterior latex paint - prior to construction. (The color is Lincoln's Cottage by Valspar. aka "black")



The pieces were then taped together with duct tape. This is a lie. Outdoor, galvanized screws were used on all accounts.

The copper flashing was surprisingly easy to work with. It cut effortlessly with some strong scissors and readily bent into shape. This was adhered to the bottom of the box using construction adhesive that is specifically designed for flashing materials.

I found that a wallpaper seam roller worked great to press the copper into the wood.



Add the trim and say, "Ta Dah".



Prior to installation, one more post-construction coat of paint was applied. I then used a nailset to punch holes through the copper for drainage (the wood was pre-drilled to keep the copper in good shape).

Can't wait to fill these with flowers!

And a few more shots of Project Rowhouse:







Reminder - a before picture:

Did they take the time, ask a ton of questions?

Most existing heating systems, especially hot water boilers, are over-sized.  What does this mean to you, the owner of that over-sized boiler?  Well, first of all there are the high utility costs monthly. Second, the average lifespan will be significantly reduced due to "short-cycling" or the added wear & tear from starting and stopping more than is needed.

Have you talked with or had another contractor out to look at your system?  Did they spend time measuring your house?  Did they ask you any questions as to how you like your house to feel (warmer/cooler) or exactly what you are trying accomplish with potential changes.

I do.  Plain and simple.  I will actually come to your home/building, take all the necessary measurements and ask a laundry list of questions about your needs.  This is the only way I know how to give you the proper service you deserve.  You may be looking to increase the fuel efficiency of your system by installing a modulating/condensing boiler.  You may be happy with your existing boiler but are hoping to increase the comfort levels in your home.  Maybe you are using a water heater and have a whole bunch of concerns.

I spend a significant amount of time; at no charge to you so you can get a comprehensive estimate and design that will best work for you.  Do they?  Most don't and that's not the only difference but a pretty big one.

Eric Aune, Owner
Aune Plumbing, LLC