Sounds of Summer...
Ting, TING, Bing, Ting, Pop, Ting, Tang, Bing. What in the world!! Sounds like a modern day rap of the old Rice Krispies commercial - you know the one, SNAP, CRACKLE, POP! Well, anyone who has ever canned pickles knows these "tings" and "bings" are music to your ears, as each jar takes its turn to be heard. One at a time, the jars start to seal. Some are so loud they almost give you a fright, and the next one is the shyest jar of pickles ever - almost going unnoticed with a timid "bing" seal. I am not the greatest gardener or canner in the world, but homemade pickles and salsa are a must at our house. Making pickles is really a wonderful event when you stop and think about it. The family gathers for a full day of a hands-on work experience and together time. Also, it's great chat time. At least one pickle throwing fight erupts. Laughter and storytelling. An activity for the smallest hands and the too-busy teenagers, parents and grandparents alike. A skill based not on athletic ability, but experience and wisdom - children actually learn a life skill besides using an electronic device. And, everyone is proud of the day's accomplishment. For us, it was canning 161 Quarts - all in one day's work! It's never too late to start pickling, this is only my 5th season, but trust me, once you start you're hooked for life : ) Happy Pickling.....and Happy Summer - Hurry now and enjoy these days, it's already August 1st tomorrow! Thanks for reading..... Bonnie
