I Can, Can

The farmers are most generous and send me home with loads of fresh produce. To get the most out of these healthy treats I have had to beef up my canning skills. I haven't been canning in 20 years.  But with the help of friends I have a colorful pantry.

I had two big bins of tomatoes which I turned into jars of stewed, spaghetti sauce, and tomato jam.  The jam is more like a dipping sauce for crackers or tortilla chips.  It is definitely a specialty item to give as gifts. 

After peeling and seeding I had these two big containers of tomatoes. 

I also canned beans at Amy's house.  Beans require a pressure cooker which I do not have.  The pressure cooker makes things go fast.

While we waited for the beans to seal Amy played me a song on their pump organ.  So wonderful and nostalgic.

Here are the beautiful beans.

Then I went to Elizabeth's to make red pepper jelly.  Elizabeth has a science degree and it really shows when she cooks.  She isn't a bit timid about experimenting with flavors.  We made several batches of red pepper jelly using a variety of different vinegars.  We used white, white wine, apple cider, and balsamic.  The balsamic didn't jell but it makes a fine red pepper reduction.

I had Mikkie try the tomato jam and she was really impressed.  She said she could eat a jar by herself in one sitting. 

Not all the veggies are in jars.  My freezer is full, too. 

My Other Job

 So between working for my gardening clients and working at the Goetz Farm, I was asked to make a sign for market.  Both pictures were taken today.  I made a lot of progress today . . . in part because I had a dream that ultimately said , "Feed your inner child."  It means I need to start doing what I enjoy.  I can't say it was all fun making the sign.  This was my first time carving wood. I have a lot of hours invested in this project, so there is a good chance I won't get paid for my (amature skills) time.  Still, my vision for the sign came true, it is folksy, naive', and fun.  I hope the Goetz family loves it.  Also, it will be hung at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market.  I think the sign will fit in with the A2 vibe.

Rhino-eggplantitis

Did you know that some egg plants are born with a nose?  That's 3/4s of a face!  Where there is a face there is personality. 

Over the Moon

WoW!  Carrot Cake Moon Pie with cream cheese frosting!  I should have bought more than one.