Strawberry Jam

Although we had a few flurries this morning I still can not forget about SPRING coming!! Between looking out the window for HAWKS coming after the chickens and flipping through seed catalogues all I can think about is what to plant. It is so nice to have home grown products stuffed away during winter.  One of my favorite things that I have tucked away is Homemade Strawberry Jam.  If you are lucky enough to get some of this jam then you are special.  I have to admit that I have not made it yet. I get it from my friend Amanda.  Amanda and her mom have a tradition of making several batches every spring once the strawberries are ripe and ready.  There is nothing like a nice homemade jar of jam.  I sometimes panic when I get low (Amanda is in N.C.) but this year she really stocked me up. There is a ration program that we have to follow so it lasts us all year long..kidding... but I do keep an eye on how much is left. Amanda and her mom even put these cute labels on last year.

People are always looking for something special to give as gifts, especially to those who seem to have everything.  Most people would be more than happy to receive something homemade/handmade. Whether it is food, a scarf, or a nice photo in a frame.  Nicky and I have given small baskets of our homemade goods and it always brings a smile.  Plus if you make it in advance it's always ready to go... just add a bow and GO!!

THANKS Amanda and Cindy!!

Strawberry Jam

• 5 Cups cleaned/crushed Strawberries
• 1 box of fruit pectin
• 2 Tablespoons Butter (may use less according to the internet)
• 7 Cups granulated Sugar

* Bring Strawberries, butter, and pectin to a boil. Add sugar and bring to a boil for 1 minute, no longer.

* Scrap off excess foam and ladle into HOT sterilized jars. Make sure top is clean and seal with lid.

* Turn jar upside down till cool. (The Ball Blue Book says to process in a water canner for 10 minutes)

I am sure if you ask around there are hundreds different varieties/opinions on how to make this but I know this one is Delish. And for those of you who aren't sure I just saw this handy Jam Maker online. 

PS- all this talk about jam has made me hungry...I'm off to get some toast!!