The Most Intimidating and Exciting Gift Ever! I Have A Pressure Canner!

Last week was my Birthday and hubby surprised me with a pressure canner! I have wanted one for years, but would never spend the money. In my eyes, there was always something we, as a family needed more. Yes, I know, in the long run a pressure canner will save us a bunch, but it was always that initial investment that held me back.  Our income is about half what it was 5 years ago and we do feel the pinch!

I tried a small batch of pears I got free, as hubby's friend has a pear tree. I figured if something went wrong, no big loss.  I will tell you, my heart raced throughout the entire process.  It was not the smashing success, as 2 jars did not set. But, that was my error. I did not leave enough head space and the liquid got on the jar rims. But, nothing blew up either!

I am already planning a huge batch of chili this weekend. I cannot wait.  This is going to be fun! And what  better, more hearty meal in the winter? Plus all we will need to do is grab a jar and heat it. Perfect for when it is my son's night to cook.

Anyone have any hints or fantastic tips for me?

I have read the instruction manual at least 3 times and am scouring Pinterest right now.

GMO Foods and Some Of My Basic Thoughts

It is a hot and heated topic these days. GMO safety, labelling, etc. Unless you have been living under the proverbial rock, I am sure you have at least heard something of the debate.

Here are my basic thoughts on the subject:



My issue is not that the foods are modified. Scientists and others have been modifying plants for so long. My issue is the Roundup and other pesticides they spray on them in mass quantities. Sure the PLANTS can grow with them, as they are altered to do so. However this does not change the fact that the pesticides HAVE been sprayed on them. 

I also have a huge issue with the fact that our pollinators, bees, are dying en mass due to this. Do people understand the ramifications of this? Sure I loathe bees as much as the next person, but they are a necessity in agriculture. What happens when they are gone? How long until we are no longer eating actual food?

Should we label them? Yes! We should label GMOs and much more. What are "Natural" flavors and "Natural" colors? Secretions from the anal sac of a Beaver? Oh sure it IS natural, they are not lying. But do I want to eat that? Same with the crushed beetles that are used. Ewwwww.....

Of course these are my personal feelings. Again, I am aware foods have been modified for years. It is not necessarily the modification per se I am concerned about here. It is the pesticides that are KNOWN carcinogens. I have lost too much to cancer.