Trees and Strawberry Jam

I did quite a bit of walking today, more than I have done since my surgery last August. I better get used to it, my car quit this week and it's quite a chunk to get it fixed. Since it is going to cost more to fix it than it is worth, not to eager to have it fixed. Not sure what I am going to do, had to cancel all of my appointments for the month and David's. Not sure how I will get to the pharmacy to get our meds, but I must believe the universe is working out the details. Fortunately, the grocery store is within walking distance, just a bit of a hassle if I need several items or heavy items, but can manage. 

The trees were so pretty today, even if they are still bare. Something about trees that comfort me. I couldn't help myself, had to snap a picture. And then there were these two friendly geese that paid no attention to me at all. 

 Strawberries are arriving and they are really juicy and sweet this year. I made one batch of freezer jam. I love that stuff. It is good on just about anything and taste just like fresh strawberries. I have made only freezer jam for several years now, got hooked after making it the first time. And, it is easier and quicker to make.

Made one of my favorite summer desserts, meringue topped with whipped cream and berries, drizzled with some homemade dark chocolate syrup. I could eat this every day. I sometimes use other berries and kiwi, didn't have either, so just strawberries today. 

Well, it's time to treat David's feet and take my meds. Hoping for a good nights sleep tonight. 

Shine like

the whole

universe

is yours.

Rumi

Strawberry Freezer Jam

Strawberries were on sale today, which made me happy. I've been wanting to make freezer jam but had not been able to find the instant pectin. When I finally found it at Target, the strawberries were not on sale any longer. I took the chance and waited to see if they would go back on sale, they did. 

I made five pints tonight, still have enough berries to make another 10 pints tomorrow - after I make a trip to the store and get more sugar. This is so easy to make, it is no big deal to make up the rest tomorrow. 

Freezer jam is so much better than cooked, in my opinion. I like the way it taste like fresh strawberries. Freezer jam is also much easier to make than the cooked. 

I used the recipe that came with the Ball Instant Pectin:

1 2/3 cup prepared fruit (washed, hulled and mashed. )
2/3 cup sugar
2 tbls. instant pectin
1 tbls. bottled lemon juice if using peaches (I don't know why you could not use juice from a lemon, but it does specify "bottled".

Mix sugar and pectin together, stir in prepared fruit and stir for three minutes. Pour into sterilized jars. Let set 30 minutes before putting in freezer.

Note: leave 1/2" space at top of jar to allow for expansion.

This stuff is good on just about anything. So yummy on angel food cake and ice cream.