Magnolia Moments: June 2012

For some reason, I had the urge to make homemade Strawberry Jam. Today was the big day! After much encouragement from my mom, I knew that I could do this. After reading and rereading the directions on the Sure Jell box, I tackled the 8 pints of beautiful Plant City, Florida strawberries with gusto. First, I sanitized the small Ball Mason jars. For those of you who know me, you know that I LOVE Mason jars! I boiled the lids in a small saucepan. After washing the strawberries, hulling and drying, it was time. I carefully measured the sugar and mashed berries to perfection. The smell of strawberries, sugar and pectin boiling brought back wonderful memories of helping my grandmother make jelly. I used to stand beside her in her little country kitchen in South Alabama, just waiting to be the taste tester. I was always amazed when the beautiful red liquid with the clumps of strawberries filled the jars. Even more amazed that it gelled. Her counter was always covered with tea towels, holding the fruits of her labor.

After carefully mashing the red fruit, mixing the pectin and sugar, the smell of something good filled my kitchen. I felt a sense of accomplishment as I filled those little glass jars with the jam. All the while thinking of those that I would share it with.

I was a little nervous with the "sealing of the jars". No, actually I was anxiety ridden. If the lids did not seal, the jam would have to go in the fridge. If the lids did seal they could be stored for up to a year. Success!! Sealed...every singe one of them! Now to let them sit for at least 24 hours for the final gelling to take affect. Guess what everyone is getting for Christmas this year?

Thanks to my sweet, grandmother, who left me with a legacy of appreciating the small things in life and who believed in me and encouraged me that I could do anything that I put my mind to. Thanks to my wonderful mother for carrying on that legacy. Maybe just maybe, I can pass the gift on to my daughter....and son.

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