That’s what I’m talking about (see post 34).....”jewels”!
The photo of your awesome canning cabinets is the reason why those of us who can smile whenever we hear those “blizzards a comin’” weather reports. It’s beautiful!
If you have a stocked pantry and you can, all you need is a camp stove or a gas grill and food will not be a problem for you in case of emergency or no power. I don’t particularly like to cook but I love to can. I suppose you could call it a hobby. I think it is that feeling you get when you see rows of canned goods stocked on your shelves that makes it so satisfying. A little bit of independence.
I’ve had to learn to pace myself as I get older and since canned goods last pretty much forever as long as the seal is good I can enough for two years and alternate years. For example last year I did enough tomato products & jam to last for 24 months. This year I did pickles & relish the same way.
A pot of chili or homemade vegetable soup made with your canned stewed tomatoes. It can’t be beat and you’ll not want to go back to store bought again. Hint: add a pint jar of your homemade salsa to your big pot of chili. Yum! Top with cheddar cheese.