Xmas in a Jar

So, I've been on a canning kick lately. My parents and my uncle have heavy producing fig trees. I have no idea what type of figs they are. They were cuttings from a tree that was brought over from Italy years ago. Anyway, I've found figs are perfect for both sweet and savory jams. I've made a horseradish roasted garlic, peppered balsamic and, what I like to call, Xmas in a jar. Xmas in a Jar is what we are here for. The flavors remind me of the Christmas tea mix Mama made when I was a kid. The smell of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves that fills the kitchen always brings me to a happy place. So with no further ado, I give you Xmas in a Jar.

Ingredients:
4lbs figs, washed
3 cups sugar
1/2 cup bottled lemon juice
1 cup apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1. Cut stems from figs and chopped roughly and put in a large non-reactive stockpot.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients, stir and bring to a boil over medium high heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for at least an hour or until jam stage is acheived, stirring occasionally.
4. Using an immersion blender, puree to desired consistency. (I like mine very smooth)
5. Pour into prepared 1/2 pint or 1/4 pint jars, leaving at least a 1/4 inch headroom and wiping rims.
6. Put on lids and rings and prrocess in  boiling water canner for 10 minutes.
7. Remove carefully, allow to sit at least 12 hours undisturbed. After 12 hours check seal.

Makes 7-8 half pint jars.

Right In The Nuts

Spencer goes to a school for the gifted and talented. I was asked to review his work with him. I wonder why. =/

Wretches and Jabberers

My local chapter of The Autism Society did a screening of Wretches and Jabbers last night. It was fantastic. It's both heart-wrenching and encouraging at the same time. I think Larry and Tracy send an important message about judging a book by it's cover. What's inside is always so much more interesting.


Another example supporting my theory that most people with autism have above average intelligence.


Watch it! I command you!

Surfers Healing Fundraiser 2011

Surfers Healing is non-profit organization that offers a free day of surfing to those with autism. It is funded solely by donations and is run by AMAZING volunteers. The families are treated with dignity and love. Our 8yr old son, Xander, has participated in the camp 4x and this will be his 5th. We have been so grateful to this day of non-judgement, where Xander can be himself and people actually celebrate his awesome quirks.

Please donate if you're able by clicking on the link below:
http://www.active.com/donate/surfsup2011/xander213

If you are unable to donate, consider volunteering for Surfers Healing or some other autism organization in your area. You'll love hanging out with these fabulous people.

For more info on Surfers Healing: www.surfershealing.org

For more info on
Surfers Healing Virginia Beach: http://www.surfershealingvb.org/

UPDATE: The fundraiser is over. I raised $1100 this year. Thank you so much to everyone who donated or gave their time.

Yes, I still exist

Hey, howzit? I know I haven't blogged in a while. I just don't have anything interesting to say lately. So there it is, my extremely brief entry for the summer. Enjoy.

Here's a picure from a recent trip to the zoo.

The Evil Tail

The Bob has an arch nemesis. His name is the Tail. The Tail is a foul, evil thing that never leaves the Bob alone. He taunts the Bob, wagging constantly in his face.

Meet Bob

Meet Bob. We got him as a rescue today. He's 9wks old. He's adorably ugly.