The Newest Great Idea

I am reading this wonderful book..."Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver. I have read another book by her, "The Poisenwood Bible" so I already knew I liked her writing style, but this book is different. This book is a non-fiction work about Barbara and her family and their attempt to live for a year in Virginia off only local produce, what they grow and by what their neighbors grow. Now, I don't really consider myself to be "organic", but I do consider myself somewhat socially responsible. As I read this book, it really made me start to think. Now, living in a small apartment in Chicago, there isn't really a way I can have a cow for fresh milk and cheese, or chickens for fresh eggs (however I do have a couple friends who do have a few chickens...and they seem to be doing just fine- but they have a house and a...YARD...what a concept). Also, being "yard-less" it's not easy to grow lettuce, radishes, squash, etc. So...with all of these things against me, how can I do it? How can I eat local produce???

So, I am beginning to research. I already knew that Chicago has a PLETHORA of farmer's markets. There is pretty much one per day...the issue...during the week, they are during the day. I work during the day, so I have to wait until Saturday to get my fresh produce. Vegetables are really just starting to come into season (well, at least the vegetables that I know how to do something with...tomatoes, variety of melons, beans, etc.) so, I am going to turn over a new leaf..... are you ready for it???

I'm going to start canning...yes, that's right, like in a Mason Jar...My mom is looking for my grandmother's canning equipment right now...as we speak...er as you read this...

So, this blog will outline the attemps I make at canning in the next few months.

Here are the things I look forward to doing this fall:
Jams and Jellies
Tomato Sauce
Salsa
Dilly Beans

Im sure there will be more once I get into the swing of things. So check back in and see how this "city girl" is doing it...vintage style