Pretty Pantry Gifts

I didn't plan the week to revolve around jars, but somehow it has worked out that way. I received this kit for Christmas, but haven't used it yet. It comes with a recipe book for making jams, jellies and preserves. Raspberry-fig jam with port, apple butter, pickled green beans, Moroccan preserved lemons, cranberry-ginger chutney...don't they sound delicious? If you're interested in the kit, you can go to Chronicle Books.

I have yet to be adventurous enough to make anything from the recipe book. I'm a little unsure of doing my own canning or preserving, but the book does give you the option of using the "quick method" which means the jars can only be kept in the fridge for 1 week to a month, depending on the recipe. But I'd still be paranoid about the risk of botulism from improper canning methods. So, I doubt I'll be making any preserves any time soon, but I am going to use all the other items included in the kit - pre-cut fabric, stickers, tags and cord to decorate jars. I'm creating a special jar to give to my daughter H. I'll tell you more about that tomorrow.