They last for years! While they are at their peak vitamin-wise for a couple of years, if the lid hasn't rusted through and the seal hasn't leaked, it is still good! Just remember to always sniff, heat it to boiling for several minutes and that eliminates any possible remote chance that botulism if there were any, is killed. That is good advice on all canned vegetables even store bought. I was a manager in a canning company for several years - believe me things happen.
The bacon was a trial - got a good buy on bulk bits and pieces and had seen where Jackie said you could can it, so I tried - Mmmmmm nothing like some good smoked bacon for seasoning those green beans or succotash. Talk about comfort food. :-)
Some people get pretty innovative with storage - cases stacked with a piece of plywood on top then covered with a tablecloth makes what everyone thinks is an endtable, but holds a treasure trove of good food. You will find that your store bought stash will diminish and your home canned will take over the space.
I cheat on watching the race... I have a TV Tuner card in my PC so I have it playing in the lower corner of the monitor and a quick double-click brings it full screen when something interesting is happening.
When you are taking a break from some of Jackie's articles, you might just want to read some of the other articles - I finally felt so guilty reading all their magazine for free that I finally broke down and subscribed - quite a resource - I think Dave Duffy pretty much is a clone of my thoughts on many many things.
I can’t wait to get to Jackie’s site, one could be there for weeks I imagine. :)
I think if I cleaned out some of the cupboards I have in other rooms with non-essential stuff I would have room for jars.
That’s a good way to watch the longer races, lol as they tend to be somewhat boring at times. At least the 1 1/2 milers are with the new car. The Shootout tonight will be a different story. Short and wild.