With the start of a new season, I think on our traditions - our birthday celebrations, our summer solstice dinner at the beach, other family traditions that are slowly, one by one, working their way into our lives and memories - and I wonder about fall. How can we commemorate this season each year?
Fall. A slowing down, an exhalation after the excitement of summer. A season of preparation for the winter ahead. A pull towards the comfort of home.
Slow...preparation...comfort...home. I know.
We spend a day peeling, cooking, mixing, scooping, pouring, boiling, sealing. Mother-in-law patiently instructs as we fill the jars just so. Lids seal with a satisfying pop, summer's riches stored for the less bountiful months ahead. Jars sparkle like jewels on the counter. I breathe a sigh of satisfaction every time I walk by. Perfect.
And so a new tradition is born.
Pasta sauce, salsa, and cinnamon peach preserves
ooh, lovely! Canning is a new tradition of mine too, and I do love it. I've done it three years in a row now and each year I try something new. Bread and butter pickles are this year's star. :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea, trying something new each year! Every year I tell myself I'll can something, but then I chicken out. Last year I got as far as making a bunch of applesauce and freezing it in glass jars - which, hey, was better than nothing! I just needed a little canning instruction to boost my confidence; thank goodness for awesome mother-in-laws. :)
ReplyDeleteLast year was my first canning year. This year I really stepped it up... Honey packed peaches, salsa, dilly beans, tomatoes, apple sauce, and other weirder things...so looking forward to eating all these things this winter. :)
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to can. Maybe after we move I'll be brave enough to give it a go.
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