Peach Day 2008

A few people have expressed interesting in having Peach Day this year, where we can get together and bottle peaches for the winter. Last year Hannah and I bottled peaches and it was a lot of fun, a lot of work and very rewarding. It was so nice to have fresh and yummy peaches all winter instead of the tin can variety (you'll never go back). I have rationed out the last of our peaches and have exactly ONE bottle left. When I say "ration" I'm not really kidding. Bart and Lisa would happily slurp down a quart of peaches in one sitting... every day.

If you plan on participating in Peach Day 2008, here are some things you should know:

- Jessica recommends the Lemon Elberta peaches from Allred Orchards.

- Last year I got 3 half-bushel boxes and it was enough for bottled peaches and peach butter. Since the kids like the peaches so much, I might get 4 boxes this year.

- I've found mason jars at DI for 25 cents each. Also you can raid your grandma's old canning stuff and find a lot of bottles.

- I called Allred's today and the Elbertas will be ready after the 20th of this month (the late frost slowed down the peaches I guess). They recommended buying your peaches about 3 days before bottling and let them sit in a box to get a bit riper. They were very helpful.

- If you are interested in participating in Peach Day 2008, please e-mail me and we'll pick a Saturday that works for everyone (the 27th or 4th of October?). You will need your peaches, mason jars, lids and rings and sugar. Also bring a knife, cutting board and a few extra-large bowls/pots, just in case. If anyone has a camp chef stove, I think that would help a lot.