A Peachy Jam

Saturday To-Do List:

1) Visit neighborhood farmers market early before it gets too hot; purchase best selection of ripe peaches.

2) Admire and adore the color and texture of the peaches, even if we don't know exactly where they came from, and farmer is kind of vague about their origin. Contemplate how their lovely blush color seems so iridescent in the sunlight.  

3) Resolve to hang on to that peachy summer goodness as long as possible.

4) Peal and chop peaches fine and add lemon juice and a ton of sugar.

5) Simmer mixture on stove until it looks a bit like corn chowder.

6) Add liquid pectin and raise heat until mixture turns amber gold, and is the viscosity of warm honey. Inhale and appreciate how entire kitchen smells like warm peach pie.  

7) Affirm that personal canning skills remain in tip top shape. Fill rustic mason jars with hot peach syrup and process in a boiling water canning bath.  

8)  Listen for popping sound to assure that vacuum seal has been achieved.   

9)  Cut a thick slice of artisan bread and slather with gooey, golden  peach jam.  Marvel at fact that summer flavors and memories can be savored well into the winter months.   

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