harvesting & canning

This summer has been lazy, busy, and nice. I so enjoy the busyness of everyone home and buzzing around. Now that school is back in session it is very quiet and lonely in the house. We did our usual canning. The kids are getting very capable and know the drill. The beans were abundant and we enjoyed quick picks. 

Andrea helped me for a bit with a knife. She is growing up yet so young. Being alone with her I realize again she does not speak well. But she is intent on doing what needs to be done and teasing Merle. She also really likes the dog.

Ahh the beautiful green of summer in the treasure valley. I'm so thankful for strong healthy kiddos who didn't fight me much on the picking this year. Bending over baby was not easy and I felt very queasy after. Popsicles were the perfect after bean treat. So refreshing and light on a woozy tummy. 

We also went one day and picked peaches and blackberries. 

We did corn a few times. We missed the men who use to help us shuck. Grandpa, Jack Torrey, even the older boys who have since left home. But these younger ones spurred on by Addie who actually enjoys corn preservation got the work done. 

Afton, Millie, Andrea, and Lia were my main peach canners. They did big pieces while I supervised and filled in where needed like filling jars and managing cooking times. 

We are really enjoying a lot of flowers this year. While the heads aren't as big as we remembered we do love the vibrant colors and have shared many bouquets with friends, teachers, and neighbors. 

A silly bean just for us. 

I grew up watching movies while we snapped. My kids aren't very quick at snapping when the are entertained that way. So we listen to audio books. Millie took this a step farther and read while she diligently snapped. Not that quick I will say but she got through her bag and her book. 

We made mixed vegetables to use in fried rice. That same day we had some visitors from Ohio come spend time with us. They helped arrange some flowers before they left. 

My up and coming workers full to the top with blackberries. They are learning the deliciousness of summer and working together. Yum yum. 

And one of the most tempting smells around. our tomatoes are coming on now we have an abundance. I love making sauce it is fulfilling to smell it, and see it in jars ready for suppers to come. We are signed up for several high school lunches and spaghetti will be on the menu. 

Since planting seeds in February we have been anticipating this season. We enjoy the abundance. Our garden is full of weeds/ cover crops but we are still reaping harvest. Might we get more with less weeds? Maybe? Am I able to do that right now no. So we are thankful for what we have and as always so thankful for the corn and beans my dad grows and the security of having full freezers and shelves for the next year. I'm thankful for time with my kiddos working, talking, and sharing in traditions.