Preserving Summer

It has been hot as hell here in my neck of the woods this month. July is always hot, but we're having extra special heat waves this year. The noontime temps are climbing to 100F or more, and the heat index (a measure of how it feels outside) is between 110F and 115F. Add high humidity to that, and it's no wonder we're getting heat advisories every day!

Despite my discomfort (and soaring electricity bills) I know that summer will be a lovely dream in a few short months. I am trying to take advantage of every single great moment that the season has to offer. One of the things I love most about this season is the wonderful produce in my local farmer's market.

In the spirit of thankfulness for all of summer's lovely food bounty, I have tried my hand for the second time (ever) at preserving. I used blueberries picked from our own backyard and cherries bought cheap ($1.99/lb/!!) at the grocery store. This was what was up at my house last Sunday:

Beautiful berries!

Bubble, bubble, toil and trouble........

Waiting on the goodness.

Success!

Pictured above: Summer Solstice Jam and Old Fashion Blueberry Preserves.
Taken from the Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving.

The Summer Solstice Jam is a combination of Blueberries, Cherries, sugar, lemon juice, pectin powder, and a couple of generous tbsps of cherry brandy.
These beauties are sitting in a dark cabinet right now, preparing to be enjoyed this fall and winter. Here is one more beauty shot: