Why Mason Jars Are Still Popular Today For Preserving Food And More

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Before refrigerators became widely available, one of the most common methods for preserving food was canning. Oddly enough, when most people say they can foods at home, they actually mean that they're preserving food in jars. The type of jar most often used in canning is the mason jar.

People have been using canning jars since the 1850's. The term "mason jar" comes from the inventor of such jars, John L. Mason. Mason didn't invent the glass jar, of course. What he did was design and patent the metal screw-on lid for such jars, which made preserving food in them possible.

Mason jars used for canning have three parts. First is the glass jar itself. They typically come in one of two styles: regular and widemouth. The glass jar is usually clear, but they've been manufactured in other colors as well. Another common color is aqua. However they can also be found in pretty much any color. It may surprise you to learn that there are collectors who specialize in collecting antique mason jars. The colored ones are the most valuable as they are the rarest kind.

The second part to the canning jar is the metal screw-on ring. This ring is not as important as you might think. In fact, many experienced canners store their jars with the rings off. The main purpose of the ring has nothing to do with sealing the jar. It's just there to protect the center portion from being knocked off. Also, if the seal breaks, the metal ring will help keep the contents of the jar from going all over your cupboards or pantry.

The third piece to the mason jar is the metal center cap. This cap is ringed with a sort of rubber sealing compound which is what actually seals the jar and keeps the food inside from spoiling. Again, this piece is what seals the jar. The metal ring is there just to protect the center lid. People store their jars without that ring because it can hide a bad seal and they're prone to corroding. By storing your jars with the ring off, you can quickly ascertain the integrity of the seal.

If you ever have any doubt as to whether or not the seal's been broken, throw out the jar of food. It's best to not risk it. There is plenty of information available to assist you in determining if a seal is broken, but the advice you're going to hear and read again and again is, "When in doubt, throw it out."

Another popular lid for the mason jars is the bail closure. While not the most common form of lid, it's still fairly common. The bail closure uses a strong somewhat spring metal wire clip which when closed forces the lid down and holds it shut.

Mason jars aren't just for drinking out of! Many people use them for preserving food. That's what they're intended for, but they can also be used as decoration, especially the valuable colored ones.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as other kitchen things [http://www.kitchenthingsplus.com] at [http://www.kitchenthingsplus.com].

Canning Supplies Q & A - Which Canning Supplies Can I Use From Last Year?

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Q. Which Canning Supplies Can I Use from Last Year?

A. You can safely use canning jars and bands year after year. However, always use new lids when home canning to get a proper seal.

Canning jars can be used again and again. You will want to inspect them before each use for any cracks or chips, especially around the rim of the jar. If you have any old canning jars that are colored do not use them for canning. They probably have lead in them because that is how they used to make the colored glass.

Canning bands or rings, as they are sometimes called, can also be used from season to season. You will want to make sure they have not been bent. Test each one to make sure it screws on to a canning jar properly and it will be good to use again this year.

Canning lids should never be reused for canning. You will always want to use brand new lids when doing your home canning. You can, however, use old used lids when dry-packing in jars that you use for vacuum sealing.

Reusing your canning supplies is a great way to save money. Saving money is one of the main benefits of preserving your own food. If you give some of your canned goods to family and friends for gives throughout the year, don't be afraid to ask for the jars back when they are finished. They will certainly understand and they probably won't use them anyway unless they do home canning themselves.

Ancient Tomb Rings

And if you would like more information about canning and canning supplies please visit our website at http://www.jrkfamilyoutdoors.com/canning You can receive 18 free videos that answer many questions about home canning just by signing up for our newsletter.

By: Rhonda Percell - Wife, Mother of 3, and Owner of JRK Family Outdoors

Finding the Perfect Free Mason Ring to Show People

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

It is only natural to be proud of something if it makes a positive difference. There are many reasons why people are interested in Freemasonry. There are those who are curious about esoteric topics and those who want to become involved in charitable work. These are two very common reasons for individuals becoming interested in masonry and wanting to join Masonic lodges.

In order to be a contributing member, takes a lot of self discipline. This is exhibited in the study that is involved. This is a system that requires a great deal of contemplation and reading. As the Freemason becomes more knowledgeable about this ancient system they also take part in raising funds for worthy causes and actually carrying out charitable good deeds. Many people find this is a most rewarding way to spend their time.

It is a well known fact that Masonic lodges do raise a lot of money to benefit the less fortunate. This makes Freemasons very proud of their association to Freemasonry. Often this pride is exhibited in the form of a free mason ring.

A Freemason will understand it is very important to wear a ring that has an accurate symbol. For those who are uninitiated but want to buy a ring to present to a family member or loved one as a gift it is advisable to use an official source. An official source would be a gift shop that is under the management of a Masonic lodge. There are many such gift shops that also offer an online shopping service. It is great to have an easy means of getting such a ring. However, the fact you will be getting a ring with an accurate symbol from an official source is most important of all.

When you look through a catalogue of rings you will see the signet ring is very popular. A Masonic ring will be formed with a metal surface that is flat and unadorned. You can choose the symbol you want on the ring. The most popular is the Masonic square and compass. This symbol can be with or without the central G. Your symbol of choice will be pressed onto the flat surface and it will leave a raised design.

When you choose your free mason ring you can make it as ornate and eye catching or as plain as you want. The ring is a piece of jewellery and so it can be made of silver, gold or platinum. The modern signet ring is no longer used to seal documents with wax and so you can have your ring decorated with precious gems if you so choose.

It could be said masonry is a way of life and so wearing a specially designed ring is a means of expressing your devotion. Make sure your free mason ring shows the world an accurate and official symbol. A ring is usually worn every day and you want to be confident you are showing an officially recognised Masonic symbol.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Letchworths is a company that can offer you a chance to improve your dedication to your club with a Free Mason Ring. For more information and answers to questions you have please visit the website at http://www.letchworthshop.co.uk/

Cakes in a Jar Make Great Gifts

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

If you have been trying to think of gifts that you could give to some of your friends, relatives, neighbors, and coworkers that would not cost a lot of money, then you need to learn how to make cakes in a jar. These delightful treats are baked in a regular canning jar and they are sealed so that people can store them for several months. They are easy to make, they do not cost a lot, and people adore homemade treats. Do not be surprised if the recipients of your gift return your empty jar and make subtle hints that they would enjoy a refill.

You really do not need a lot of fancy things to make these treats. You will need to have a recipe for a cake that you like or you can buy a cake mix. The choice is yours. You will need some regular canning jars like people use to preserve fruits and vegetables in. Some people call these items Mason jars but Mason is a brand name. The jars are also made by Kerr, and Ball, and several other companies.

When you pick your jars you will want to get the pint-sized ones. You will also have better results if the jars you use are wide-mouthed jars rather than the regular ones. The wider opening on the wide mouth jars makes it easier for the recipient to get their treat out of their container. Prior to baking in the jars you will need to place boiling water inside them to sterilize them. Then allow the containers to air dry so you do not introduce germs from a towel or cloth.

Mix the batter for the cake you are placing in these containers just like you would normally mix it. Make sure you grease the inside of the jars before you put the batter in them. Place no more than one cup of batter into each jar, making sure that the rim of the container is left clean. Place the containers on a cookie sheet in an oven that has been preheated to 325 degrees. Bake these treats for 40 minutes.

Twenty minutes before the treats are done you will need to place the lids to your jars in boiling water and sterilize them. When you remove the cakes from the oven place a sterile lid and ring on the top and allow them to sit until they have cooled. The lids should make a popping sound when they seal.

Ancient Tomb Rings

5 Tips For Cleaning Delicate Objects

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Most households acquire precious objects over a length of time. You might inherit something from your grandparents or even something from your great-grandparents though your own parents. We all cherish these family heirlooms.

But, do you know how to take care of them? Older things are often very delicate, whether that comes from the fact that they were made that way or because time has made them fragile does not matter. However, in general, older items often suffer from a lack of moisture, although a lack of moisture is good for some objects. This makes it a tough call to simply guess.

I have put together five tips for taking care of delicate items below and I really hope that you find them useful and that they help you to learn how to preserve your family heirlooms so that your next generation can enjoy them too.

Silk Flowers: you can easily clean artificial silk flowers in the following way. Take a pillow case and pour into it one pound of dry salt. Take your artificial silk flowers and insert them head first into the pillow case without touching the bottom. The stems must protrude from the pillow case opening. Now, you have to decide whether our artificial flowers are so delicate that you have to do one at a time or a bunch. No matter. Grip the stem, poking out of the pillow case opening and hold it sealed. Shake it up and down for a few minutes. Inspect your flower, it should be as good as new, no matter how old it is. Blow off any adhering salt.

Vellum Bindings: and Masonic aprons. The bindings on old books (and old Masonic aprons) will get very dirty through prolonged use or even the lack of it. However, they don't usually look dirty until you see them clean. Take some cotton wool or soft lint cloth and dip it in milk. Rub in circles, small circles, one at a time and you will be really amazed how much grime is lifted. The oil in the milk does the skin good too. Dry it off in a polishing action with another cloth.

Spitting Image: similarly, on oil painting picks up grime and dust on its uneven surface. This is difficult to spot building up as it happens so gradually. Spit on your painting and rub it clean with a soft clean cloth in circular movements. You will soon see the benefits of your work. Again, your natural oils will benefit the painting and the oil in the colours will prevent the moisture damaging the canvas.

Olive Oil Bath: pearls are delicate and must be taken care of, if they are to maintain their value. Most people will tell you that the best maintenance is wearing them, so that your skin's oils will nourish them and that is true. However, that is like wshing your hands often during the day, but showering only twice. To 'shower' your pearls, give them a bath in olive oil. Polish them with a soft cloth.

Ring True: finger rings get amazingly dirty. They, don't show it, but you can believe that they do, can't you? The easiest way to clean a ring is to scrub it with an old toothbrush dipped in warm water with a drop of detergent. Dip in surgical spirit to remove smears.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Owen Jones, the author of this article writes on several subjects, but is currently involved with the Plantronics CS50 Headset. If you would like to know more about our special deals, please go to our website at Plantronics CS50 Headset.

10 Uses For Used Canning Lids

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Since it is unsafe to reuse a used canning lid to seal another canning jar, what to do with all of the used lids? It may not seem like a big problem for the occasional home canner who puts up a couple of batches of tomatoes, jelly and a jam each year.

If you get into the habit of canning a lot of stuff you will end up with a pile of used lids. Instead of throwing them into the trash and adding to our landfill problems, here are ten creative ideas for repurposing used canning lids.

1. Mobile
Spray paint the lids bright colors. Drill a hole through each lid about a 1/4 of an inch from the edge. Tie the string to the lid and then to the coat hanger.

2. Matching game
Create a matching game. Print out two of each letters, numbers, pictures of animals, shapes, colors, characters, etc. Cut out the items and glue them to one side of the lid.

3. Wind chime
Drill a small hole near the edge that is wide enough for the string to fit through. File off any rough edges that the drill bit created while boring through the lid. String them together at different levels but close enough so that they will touch each other. Optionally you can spray paint the lids different colors before assembling.

4. Children's toy
Drill a small hole near the edge that is wide enough for the string to fit through. File off any rough edges that the drill bit created while boring through the lid. Use string ribbon or string to tie the lids together. Don't use any rusted lids or paint them. The paint could flake off.

5. Scarecrow
Polish the lids with #0000 steel wool to give them a nice bright shine. Hang them with string around the garden to keep the birds away.

6. Refrigerator magnets
Print out family pictures. Cut them to fit the lid. Glue the picture to the lid and a small flat magnet on the back side of the lid. They make great Christmas, birthday and grandparent's day gifts.

7. Mixes in a jar
Put together the dry mix for a family favorite recipe (cookie, cake, baked beans, etc.). Discount retailers sell inexpensive canning jars. Fill the jars with the dry mix seal with the used canning lid and ring.

8. Dry Goods Storage
The used lids work well for sealing mason jars filled with dry pasta, sugar, flower, noodles, etc. You don't need a vacuum seal, just enough of a seal to keep the dust and weevils out.

9. Christmas Yard Art
Drill or punch two small holes on the ends. Spray paint or buff the lids. String them together into strands. Another idea is to create garland with drop downs of 3-5-7 from the main strand.

10. Christmas ornaments
Make a series of Christmas ornaments out of the lids by punching different patterns into the lid. Be creative by punching in patterns such as snowmen, snowflakes, Santa Claus, Christmas tree, cross, etc. Take lace and glue it to the outside circumference of the lid.

I hope these ideas will provide you with some creative uses for used canning lids. Don't have enough canning lids to make these crafts?

Ancient Tomb Rings

Follow these simple canning instructions [http://www.canningperserving.com/canning-instructions-40.html] an you will be on your way to canning and storing up vegetables, jams, jellies and fruit.

For more canning and preserving [http://www.canningperserving.com/] ideas sign up for my free canning and preserving mini course that is full of tips, advice and canning recipes.

November, The Month of Venison

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Every year at the end of October, I receive requests from hunters wanting to know how to process venison. They want different ways to take care of the deer besides the usual butcher shop or sausage maker ways. Bringing the venison to someone to have it processed is the typical thing to do. Everything is done for you and you pay by the pound and take it home to your freezer.

I come from a family of hunters and we have done venison the old way for years. When people taste my venison they always want to learn how it is made. I usually invite them over to assist in the process. Hands on experience is the only way to learn something new. Once they help they are able to do it themselves.

Years ago when everything was done on a wood cook stove the processing time was 3-1/2-hours in a boiling water bath canner and needless to say the house got a bit steamy. I did it that way one time and quickly purchased a pressure cooker which greatly reduced the time required for meat. The flavor of the venison remains the same as if a wood stove was used.

To can venison you need regular canning quart jars. I prefer the wide mouth as they are easier to get stuff out of. Never use mayonnaise jars in a pressure cooker as they tend to break. The jars must be clean and free of chips around the mouth of the jar. Lids must be new, never re-use mason jar lids as they are made for one time use only.

The venison should be field dressed properly and cooled as soon as possible. The meat is de-boned for canning. The hide must be taken off the deer within an hour of field dressing. Leaving the hide on for show and tell will only guarantee you a very wild tasting product. Remove as much of the tallow as possible, it serves no worthwhile purpose in canning the meat. Cut the venison in uniform size pieces, usually 2-inch chunks. To each quart jar add 1 bay leaf on the bottom followed by a slice or two of onion, then chunks of venison. Fill the jar with alternate onion and meat to within 1-inch of top of jar. Add 1-teaspoon of canning salt (no iodized salt). Do not pack the meat too firmly. Do not add any liquid, the meat will make enough. Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth. Put hot sterilized lids on the jars. Put canning ring on but be sure to tighten only finger tip tight or your jars will not seal. Place in pressure cooker, close according to directions. Bring the pressure up to 10-pounds and process 75-minutes. Turn off pressure cooker and wait for the pressure to go down. Remove the jars and let cool away from drafts. Check to make sure all of the jars are sealed.

Venison will keep in the cupboard for a year or longer as long as the seal is not broken. Refrigerate any unused part of an opened jar. Canned venison is handy when you want a quick meal. Heat it up and serve with potatoes and a salad. Some people prefer to use it right out of the jar with crackers or home made bread. This has been a tradition in my family for generations, try it and maybe it will become a favorite of yours.

You can find more cooking tips at http://www.pothaven.com

Ancient Tomb Rings

Don't Forget the Small Things - 3 Mistakes Home Canners Sometimes Make

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Ping, ping, ping, music to the home canner's ears. We all love to hear that familiar sound as we know that the valuable food we have prepared for our family is safely preserved for use at a future date. We all love to admire our work and the pinging of sealed jars is the cherry on top of a successful canners sundae!

Occasionally though the pings don't happen and you are left wondering what went wrong. In my home canning experience I have found that there are usually a few little culprits that steal your pings and leave you with unsealed jars.

Check for Nicks

First, it is crucial crucial, crucial that you check the tops of your canning jars for nicks. Sometimes if the nicks are small and on the outside of the rim you can get away with using the jar. If the nick however spans the entire rim or is more towards the inner circle of the rim the best thing to do is not use the jar. However, jars that are not suitable for home canning are not lost forever. Old mason jars can be useful for storing nails and screws in and you may find craft supplies can also be stored quite nicely in a nicked mason jar. Also, if you look on line you can find a lot of neat craft ideas to do with old mason jars.

Wipe that Rim

Second, Wipe that rim off. Yes I know you used the funnel to fill your mason jar, but it is still a good habit to get into to wipe the rim of your jar off before putting on your lids and rings. If there is any oil, or residue left on the rim of the jar from the contents you are putting in it can prevent your jars from sealing. I always like to use a heavy duty paper towel that is slightly moist to wipe them off versus a wash cloth. The reason I like the paper towel is because they are typically pure white so you can see if your paper towel starts to get soiled and swap it out for a clean one. You don't want to be wiping your rims with a dirty wash cloth because that would be counter productive.

Boil Those Lids

Finally, don't forget to boil your lids. Sometimes you can get away with this one, but sometimes you can't. When home canning you don't want to not seal an entire go because you forgot one simple step which is to soak your lids in boiling hot water before affixing them to the top of your jars. I actually did this the other day and luckily all the seals took, but it is definitely not something I would encourage or get into the habit of. Also, as you are placing your lids into the hot water it is always good to give them a quick once over to make sure they aren't bent in anyway and that the sealing is the entire way around.

Home canning is a great adventure and a wonderful way to provide for your family. Remember to not forget the small things while you are canning and you will have many great meals ahead of you!

Ancient Tomb Rings

For all your home canning needs, product reviews, helpful articles, recipes and so much more visit us online!

Kristen Forrester Hall
Canner's Corner
http://www.cannerscorner.com
kristen@cannerscorner.com

Home Canning Made Simple

New Zealand's 7 Favourite Native Animals

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

New Zealand is one of the most isolated countries on the planet, and with this status has come along a vast array of wildlife that now fondly call it home.

Unique birds, animals and plants have developed here and attract thousands of tourists year upon year. New Zealand is best known for its flightless birds, such as the Kiwi, but visitors shouldn't be tricked into thinking that these are all that is on offer here.

Time magazine has described New Zealand as an "ultimate storehouse for discontinued zoological models". This especially rings true of the direct descendents of prehistoric wildlife that frolic about the countryside, including the tuatara, weta and giant snail.

While visiting New Zealand, there are several species of wildlife keen nature lovers should definitely keep their eyes open for, and these include:

1. Kiwi

The Kiwi is New Zealand's icon and there are a total of 5 species to be seen here. The Kiwi is a nocturnal flightless bird and is characterised by its hair-like feathers, long whiskers and nostrils at the end of its bill.

The best place to see the Kiwi is on Stewart Island on the beautiful Mason Bay beach.

2. Kea

The Kea is a large species of parrot that is olive green in colour and has a large narrow curved grey-brown upper beak. The Kea is one of the only alpine parrots in the world and is known for its intelligence and curiosity.

The Kea can mostly be found in the forested and alpine regions of New Zealand's South Island.

3. Hector's Dolphin

This unique species of dolphin is only found in New Zealand and spans just 1.4 metres in length. Hectors are small, fast and chunky and are characterised by their black beak and rounded dorsal fin.

Hector's Dolphins like to play around the shallow waters of the coastal areas of New Zealand, but are mainly sighted off the coast of the South Island.

4. Sperm Whale

Although they are not unique to New Zealand, the Sperm Whale has a large population nestled in its waters. The sperm whale has the largest brain of any animal, is the largest living toothed animal and also the deepest diving mammal.

A popular location to watch for sperm whales is in Kaikoura, on New Zealand's South Island.

5. Fur Seals

The New Zealand fur seals are easy to recognise, with their pointy nose, long whiskers and visible external ears. Other popular seals spotted along the coast are the Hooker's sea lions, southern elephant seals and leopard seals.

Seal spotting is more popular off the Otago and Kaikoura coasts on the South Island.

6. Yellow-eyed Penguin

The Yellow-eyed penguin is a penguin native to New Zealand and has a pale yellow head and paler yellow iris with black feather shafts.

These cute little penguins are generally found on the South Island, as well as on Stewart, Auckland and Campbell Islands. Tourists especially love the colony on the Otago Peninsula, which allows visitors to get very close to these clever little creatures.

7. Tuatara

While some reptiles scare many people, the Tuatara is simply too cute not to make the list. The Tuatara is greenish brown, measure up to 80cm and boast a spiny crest along their backs.

They are rarely sighted but are sometimes seen on the islands off New Zealand's North Island.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Christine Barton is a Content Writer for Discovery Campervan Hire, Australia's travel focused online campervan hire company. She also writes frequently for Discovery's Motorhome Hire New Zealand and enjoys travel around the world.

Men's Rings Are Hot and Trendy

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Jewelry is not just for the ladies... in fact, it never has been. Men were actually the primary wearers of rings in ancient times. Kings and noblemen wore them and used them as seals to identify themselves.

Others wore pieces that identified their social class or the family they belonged to. Still others wore them to identify themselves as members of fraternal brotherhoods such as the Masons. Today, everyone wears jewelry and trends in men's styles have come a long way.

What guys are wearing

Guys are wearing gemstones, some more understated than others, but they like the sparkle too. Men's gemstone rings are usually bold with a thick band, maybe a squared off face and masculine stones like onyx or cat's eye. They also like the unusual star rubies and sapphires which are cut into a cabochon instead of faceted.

Men's gold rings may be a plain band or have intricate designs as well gemstones set in the band. Other trends include a laser finish, which gives it a matte look, and two tone designs. Men's white gold rings are often bordered with yellow gold for a unique and masculine look.

Different metals are also used besides gold in today's ring fashions. Men's silver rings are certainly not new, but they are a classically masculine metal that guys love. Newer metals that are being used are titanium and tungsten which are even more durable and can be worn by the roughest working man.

Styles designed for the ladies

As women have become bolder in their relationships, tradition has fallen by the wayside and jewelry designers have grasped on to this new trend. Women are no longer waiting for their men to take a knee; they are buying men's diamond rings and popping the question themselves.

It is a different world in jewelry and among the sexes! They are also giving promise rings to their boyfriends in the same vein that the guys give their class ring or tiny diamond.

Picking the right piece

Lifestyle is a huge factor in choosing an appropriate ring. If he works with his hands a lot, gemstones that sit above the setting are in danger of being knocked out or catching on something. Of course, his taste and personality should also be taken into account.

Is he simple and classic or bold and flashy? This can help choose between a simple band or a chunky pinky ring. The size of his hands is also a factor. Long slender fingers may not look right with a wide band style where as a thin band will get lost on thick fingers.

Like a peacock spreading his plumage and strutting his stuff, guys like to accessorize and look good. There are no rules about what he can and can't wear and because of growing popularity there are all kinds of ring styles for men to choose from.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Men's rings can be notoriously difficult to find. Are you having a tough time choosing the perfect one for the special man in your life? Find the ideal ring to make your man look good when you visit our showcase at http://www.gemaffair.com.

Home Canning Equipment

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

The public outcry over the food practices in our country is spurring a renewed interest in home canning...and for good reason! Canning your food at home insures nothing toxic goes into the food you and your family consumes. And it also tastes better! That's a win/win in my books.

Don't let the thought of canning intimidate you. It's not as hard as you may think. You also won't have to invest your life savings to start a home canning operation in your home. In fact, most of the equipment you need you probably already own. Here's a list of both the basic essentials as well as a few other things you might want to pick up as time goes by:

Essentials:

Mason Jars

You can often find these glass canning jars at garage sales for cheap. Run your finger around the rim of the jar (when buying used) to make sure you don't feel any chips or dents. Even the slightest chip will keep your jars from sealing. Most grocery stores sell jars in various sizes by the case during the summer and fall canning seasons. (NOTE: Don't use recycled mayonnaise and other condiment jars for canning--use only mason jars created for the purpose of canning.)

Seal able Jar Lids

While you can buy the jars used and re-use them over and over, jar lids need to be new. These little metal lids have a rubbery band around them that once hot, create the seal between the lid and the jar. If you're buying new jars by the case, these lids will be included. If you're re-using old jars, the lids can be purchased separately and are inexpensive.

Jar Bands or Rings

These metal rings screw down on the jar to create a snug fit between the jar and the lid. They can be re-used and don't have to be purchased new each time. If you find your running short on rings, you can take them off totally cool jars that have already been canned and sealed. You don't have to store them with the bands screwed on. Again, if you're buying new jars by the case, the rings will be included in the package, but you can purchase them separately as well.

Boiling Water Canner

This doesn't have to be as intimidating as it sounds...you can use a big stockpot or other large, deep sauce pot you already own. I canned my own jams and jellies for YEARS before I invested in a water canner (that I found at a yard sale for $5!) The pot you use needs to be large enough to have the jars you're canning completely submerged (with about 2 inches or more of water above the jar tops) and with enough room around the jars that water can move freely).

If you're using a saucepot from your kitchen, it needs to have a properly fitting lid to go with it. You will also need to either buy a wire rack (you can buy them separately in the same section as the jars in most stores) or create a homemade solution yourself so that your jars are not sitting on the bottom of the pot unprotected.

A great homemade solution I used was placing as many jar rings side by side on the bottom of the saucepan as would fit. The jars then sat on top of the rings, creating space between the pot and the jar bottoms.

Kitchen Utensils

Things like measuring cups, wooden spoons (long handled ones work best), ladles, funnels, spatulas, etc.

Non-essentials (but very helpful additions):

Jar Lifter

This tongs-like simple contraption is designed especially for safe jar lifting from boiling water baths when the jars are too hot to touch. Although it's not an essential, it's hard to can without it (I've used regular kitchen tongs before, which are tricky. The wet jars tend to want to slip from your grip and dropping a glass jar full of boiling hot food is something you definitely want to avoid!)

Lid Lifter

This is a little plastic stick with a magnet on the bottom for ease of lifting your jar lids out of the warm water you've got them sitting in while you're canning. This little lifter is totally NOT essential, but very inexpensive and quite slick. I didn't have one for years, but after I got it, I wondered why I didn't spring the 2 bucks a long time ago. I love it!

Bubble Remover and Headspace Tool

If you want to be sure about the headspace you're leaving, there's no better way than measuring it with a specially designed device to get the job done. Some people swear by them, but it's never been something I've used.

Pressure Canner

This is the most expensive investment of the whole canning process, but you can pick one up for less than $75.00 and it will last forever, at least! (I have one passed down from my grandma).

Although I didn't put it in the MUST HAVE section, it is a must have if you plan on canning low-acid things like most vegetables, meats, etc. However, there are many, many recipes you to can that don't need a pressure canner, so it's not essential for all canning. My suggestion is that if you're new to canning, try your hand with the water bath method of canning first before you dive into recipes that require pressure canning.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Kerrie Hubbard lives in Portland, Oregon with 9 chickens, 1 cat and several small raised bed gardens. Her website, City Girl Farming ( http://www.citygirlfarming.com ) is an urban guide to raising and growing your own food in small spaces.

Canning - How to Make Homemade Apple Chutney Plus a Recipe

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

During the fall season, we love to visit our local fruit orchard and pick our own apples so that we can make some homemade apple chutney.

We enjoy using this chutney as a sandwich spread or as an addition to our homemade chicken, turkey and tuna salads. If you are using it as a salad spread, cut your mayonnaise or salad dressing in half and replace the other half with the chutney.

This recipe requires the basic home canning equipment: half-pint or pint-sized mason jars, water bath canner, jar lifter, seals and rings, ladle and a funnel.

Apple Chutney Recipe

2 quarts apples

2 teaspoons lemon juice

2 lbs. seedless raisins

4 cups brown sugar, firmly packed

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 cup sweet red peppers, finely chopped

2 red peppers, finely chopped

1 clove of garlic, crushed

2 1/2 tablespoons mustard seed

2 tablespoons ginger

2 teaspoons ground allspice

1 teaspoon curry powder

2 teaspoons table salt

4 cups white vinegar

Apple Preparation: Wash, peel, core and chop your apples, sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice to prevent darkening; set aside.

In a large stock pot, combine all of the above ingredients, one at a time and stirring in between each addition. Over medium heat, simmer the mixture for 60 to 85 minutes or until the mixture has thickened. Use a nonstick silicone spatula to stir the mixture every 10 minutes.

Once mixture is done cooking, ladle it into hot and clean mason jars, leaving a 1/2" head space. Use a soft cotton towel and wipe the rims clean before placing the seal and ring onto your jar.

Process jars in your water bath canner for 10 to 15 minutes or according to manufacturers instructions. Once they are done, carefully remove them from the water and let them cool in a non-drafty area of your kitchen. After 2 hours have passed, recheck your jars to make sure they have all sealed properly.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Shelly Hill has been working from home since 1989 and is a Manager with Tupperware. Shelly enjoys cooking and baking for her family and friends and trying out new recipes. You can visit Shelly online at http://www.workathomebusinessoptions.com or at http://wahmshelly.blogspot.com for additional free recipes and cooking tips.

101 Products You Can Make With a Medal Press

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

1. BULLION MEDALS, ROUNDS A medallic item issued not for its commemorative, historical, souvenir or art design aspect, but for the bullion it contains. When these are circular they are called by the unimaginative name of "rounds."

2. CHALLENGE COINS Created for members of a military unit, a custom-designed medal of roughly silver-dollar size to be carried by members or supporters of that unit.

3. ART MEDALS A medallic item made from artists' models, generally multiple struck and given a patina finish to enhance its total appearance.

4. AWARD MEDALS A medallic item bestowed upon a recipient in a contest, race, game or other sporting event, or for the participation in a group effort in some notable activity.

5. MILITARY MEDALS The full spectrum of medals issued by or for the military, including campaign, service medals, wound medals, and decorations of honor. Such medals issued for American military are administrated by the Institute of Heraldry and it is necessary to remain on their bid list to be notified when these medals are required.

6. ANNIVERSARY MEDALS A medallic item issued on the occasion

of a significant anniversary; this includes product anniversaries as well as the anniversary of the issuer organization to memorialize its founding and long-term existence.

7. PLAQUETTES A square, rectangular, or nearly so, medallic item smaller than eight inches (or more precisely, 20 centimeters), it is an art object struck from a die bearing a bas-relief design. When such an item is greater than 8 inches and less than 24 inches it is cast and called a PLAQUE; larger than 24 inches it is a TABLET.

8. MEDALLIONS A large medal, round or nearly so, greater than 80 millimeters (3 3/16-inch). Naive people think the larger the medal the greater its importance. Not true. Importance comes from the status of the sculptor-medalist, the rendition of his bas-relief design and its execution.

9. DECORATIONS, DECORATIONS OF HONOR An elite class of medals, usually those of exceptional design, embellishment and composition - including suspension by ribbons - bestowed for exceptional service or tenure,

and sometimes granted the recipient special privileges.

10. MEDALLIC OBJECTS A work of art inspired by the medallic genre. There are few restrictions on medallic objects or their creation, other than perhaps, they must be permanent, capable of being reproduced, usually made of metal and, in most issues, have multiple sides. They are MODERN ART objects.

11. SO-CALLED DOLLARS Originally political medals struck in silver similar to a United States silver dollar including such items as Bryant dollars (1896, 1900) and Lesher or Referendum dollars (1900-1901). Later the term was corrupted to include any medal similar in size and relief - but not necessarily similar in composition - to the U.S. silver dollar (1 1/2-inch or 38mm). It could

be considered a SOUVENIR MEDAL.

12. ART BARS, COINED INGOTS Bullion items issued in shape and imitation of ingots; design is not that important since, ultimately, they will be melted for their metal content. The term "art" in the name misleads most people, however they are widely collected.

13. CONVENTION MEDALS, CONVENTION BADGES, LADY'S BADGES A medallic item, often of fraternal nature, bestowed upon delegates of a convention or meeting. Usually attached to ribbons and headers, convention badges were often designed with several components: bars, drops, pendants and such. All are intended to be worn, thus they have some method of fixing to a garment. Medallic Art Company invented a lady's badge of half size for the American Numismatic Association and made a COLLECTOR SET of four medals (without loops) struck in two metals (bronze, silver) of the two sizes.

14. RELIGIOUS MEDALS A most popular theme with a heritage extending back in history for hundreds of years. Like religious paintings, religious medals portray Saints with rules of depicting them with halos and rays. Catholic religion encourages wearing medallic items around the neck.

15. CROSSES A medallic item with several arms; often in the form of a crucifix. The use of a cross for a medallic item has wide appeal, mostly for its symbolism of Christianity and talismanic quality.

16. CAMEOS An oval medal in raised relief usually bearing a portrait, in similitude to a carved shell cameo; by extension raised relief, particularly a small relief handcut with BACKGROUND CUTAWAY.

17. JEWELRY ITEMS, BIJOUS A highly decorative medallic item intended to be worn, often worked into a piece of excellent craftsmanship with a FRAME of jewels surrounding the relief item.

18. BADGES A medallic item intended to be worn, often of heraldic shape and emblematic design, greater than one-inch diameter with some form of fastening to cap or clothing.

19. CHARMS A small medallic item, of less than one inch diameter, with a loop and intended to be worn.

20. MEDALETES, MINIATURE MEDALS A small medal less than one inch diameter, not intended to be worn, and obviously, without a loop.

21. TOKENS, GOOD-FORS A substitute for a coin, usually struck in metal with a denomination - or some indication of value - near the size and form of a coin. Often in place of a denomination it will state "good for" some form of merchandise or service.

22. PENDANTS A medallic or jewelry item intended to be worn suspended from a chain, ribbon or the like, as from around the neck.

23. KEY TAG MEDALS Utilization of a medal to put on a ring of keys; they are always looped or holed; better key tag medals are struck in nickel-silver for its hard-wearing qualities.

24. MARDI GRAS DOUBLOONS, ALUMINUM THROWS A light-weight, low-cost medal intended to be thrown to spectators from parade floats or such. Aluminum is ideal and not a too-heavy a projectile; most of these medals are anodized to give them color.

25. LAPEL PINS, EMBLEMS A small medallic item for wearing in the lapel buttonhole of a garment, their unusual shape and color help identify the issuer of the pin.

26. INSIGNIA A symbolic device of distinctive shape and three dimensions indicating rank, office or honor, most often intended to be worn.

27. CALENDAR MEDALS A medallic item in which a calendar of one or more months (usually 6 or 12) is incorporated into the design.

28. ZODIAC MEDALS A celestial constellation, twelve in number and forming a belt around the sky, appearing on numismatic and medallic items; they are symbolized by animals and are the basis of astrology.

29. PINS, PINBACKS A small medallic item, less than one inch diameter, usually uniface, with clasp or stem and catch, intended to be worn.

30. SPORTS MEDALS A prize medal or medal of sports theme; other than Olympic medals which fall in this category, sports medals are notorious for poor design, poor quality and cheaply made. Opportunity exists for upgrading this entire class.

31. FRATERNAL MEDALS Fraternal organizations, notably the Masons, but all others as well, have a long history of issuing medals for members and many functions.

32. COIN-MEDALS, TOKEN-MEDALS A medal made like a coin or token

- struck in a coining press on an upset blank with low-relief coining dies.

33. BROOCHES A large insignia, badge or medallic jewelry item with a clasp on the reverse to be attached to a garment or hat.

34. HISTORICAL MEDALS A medallic item which commemorates some historical event, as contrasted with those medals of purely artistic nature, or those of completely commercial nature (as a CARD). Most always bears a date.

35. TWO-PART, MULTI-PART MEDALS A medallic item of two or more separate unattached parts which form the complete item.

36. INAUGURAL, DEDICATION MEDALS A medallic item issued on the occasion of a new administration, era or term.

37. PORTRAIT MEDALS A medallic item bearing a portrait as the principal device.

38. SATIRICAL MEDALS A medallic item whose theme is basically humorous, often cutting or critical much like an editorial cartoon.

39. SOUVENIR MEDALS A medallic memento; a medal issued in honor of a public celebration or event.

40. EXPOSITION MEDALS A medallic item bestowed either as a prize for a display or activity at an exposition or fair, or one issued for attendance or purely to

commemorate the occurrence of the event.

41. POLITICAL MEDALS A medallic item primarily issued for a political campaign, often containing one or more portraits of candidates, campaign slogans and symbols.

42. MEMORIAL MEDALS A person honored by his portrait or name appearing on a medallic item after his death.

43. GRAND PRIX MEDALS A French term for a highest ranking PRIZE MEDAL

44. MEDALS IN SERIES An issue of a number of numismatic or medallic items with a common theme or design and a continuity in their issue.

45. KEYSTONE MEDALS A medal associated with a series but with a feature different from all others in the series.

46. CORNERSTONE MEDALS A medallic item placed with other objects in a cornerstone or other place in the foundation when erecting a new building.

47. MAP SHAPE MEDALS Silhouetted medallic items in the shape of some geographic entity, as country, state, province or region.

48. ADVERTISING REPLICAS An award medal in which the recipient individual or organization has medals struck in similitude to the original medal and distributes these as a form of self-promotion.

49. STOCK MEDALS A medallic item made up in advance and on hand for use by anyone; not a custom medal.

50. SEALS A metallic bas-relief object, much like a medal, the possession and use of which indicates authority or a medallic item whose principal device is a seal or trademark.

51. LUCKY CHARMS A medallic item intended to be carried by a person, the item purporting to bring good luck.

52. AMULETS A talismanic medal to ward off evil or illness, usually intended to be worn around the neck, intended for very superstitious people.

53. SERVICE MEDALS A medallic item of any size which is bestowed upon an employee or member of a group for length of service to that business or organization

54. SERVICE PINS A pin or emblem bestowed upon an employee or member of a group for length of service to that organization; usually such pins bear a number indicating the years of service.

55. RETIREMENT MEDALS A medallic item designed for bestowing to a person for long service, not a gold watch, give a medal.

56. PERSONAL MEDALS In a broad sense, a medallic item with a person's portrait or about a specific person.

57. PRIZE MEDALS Any form of medallic item used as an award in a

contest, race or game where there is competitive action and more than one

contestant.

58. MARRIAGE MEDALS, WEDDING ANNIVERSARY MEDALS A medallic item issued on the occasion of a marriage or on the anniversary of a marriage.

59. BIRTH AND BAPTISMAL MEDALS A medallic item issued on the occasion of a birth of a child or of its baptism; usually the design shows an infant, a baptismal font, or the Christ child.

60. AVIATION AND SPACE MEDALS From ballooning to the latest space launch this theme covers a wide range of air transportation; very popular. Look for medals to be made from the first metal alloy to be made is space (without gravity) which cannot be combined on earth (like aluminum and gold).

61. MEDICAL MEDALS Any medallic item with a medical or health theme; extremely popular theme and the subject of medal series, collections, catalogs and books written about the subject.

62. GARDEN CLUB AND HORTICULTURE MEDALS Local garden clubs are known for awarding medals for growing prize flowers and for garden arrangements; by extension horticultural medals are awarded for more serious or professional activity.

63. ARCHITECTURE MEDALS Virtually any medal which contains a building in its design, plus any medal issued by an architectural organization.

64. RELIC MEDALS A numismatic or medallic item formed from metal or other material which was previously an artifact of a different form.

65. UNUSUAL COMPOSITION MEDALS Struck on a blank made of a material not normally used for making medals, the usual compositions are: bronze, copper, silver, gold, copper-nickel, nickel silver.

66. PRODUCT MEDALS A medallic item made of a composition that is the business product of the issuing firm.

67. EMBOSSED SHELLS Any form of relief created by pressure from behind, as hammering with hand tools or striking with dies.

68. TALISMANS A medallic object of superstitious design intended to be carried to ward off evil; they are often more grotesque, more symbolic and more widely used than amulets or lucky charms.

69. COSTUME JEWELRY MEDALS An imitation decoration or medallic item made to wear on costumes and fake uniforms, most often for use in theatrical productions.

70. ANIMAL MEDALS Widely popular, the issuing of medals depicting

animals will never end; the critical point is the design, the animals must be shown

in a realistic pose and setting.

71. ENGINEERING MEDALS Construction of everything requires an

engineer; medals can be designed to honor this activity.

72. NAVAL MEDALS Show a ship on a medal, from a canoe to a battleship and it is the desire of every naval collector to own that medal.

73. MASONIC MEDALS Masonic was mentioned among Fraternal Medals above, but it bears its own slot of medallic products. Masonic "pennies" were issued to every member who carried his own medal as a pocket piece. So pervasive is the number of Masonic medals there are two museums in America (more in Europe) of nothing but Masonic medals.

74. SCOUTING: BOY SCOUTS, GIRL SCOUT MEDALS Medallic Art Company was an early medal supplier to the Boy Scout movement, by designing and striking some of the early badges (in the 1920s!). Millions of medals later, there is wide demand for any scouting item.

75. RAILROAD MEDALS The author could have said "transportation medals," but there is a strong nostalgia for railroads, thus the appeal of any medal showing a railroad engine or theme.

76. COIN CLUB AND NUMISMATIC MEDALS What should be the leading groups for fine art medals is just the opposite, as most coin club medals are not quality at all, but accepted by naive collectors. A genuine opportunity exists here to raise the bar!

77. GAMING CHIPS Joe Segal and his Franklin Mint made a million (dollars and medals) by producing casino chips for Vegas and other locations. Imitators are now making gaming chips, not of metal, but of a clay composition.

78. WEAPONS AND ARMOR MEDALS The appeal of this category is very strong among their devotees. Easy to reach through their national organization.

79. GALLANTRY MEDALS A medallic item bestowed for noble and chivalrous behavior; early such medals were bestowed to knights, in modern times more so to heroes of military action.

80. VETERAN'S MEDALS Servicemen returning from military service have been given medals it seems like forever. Napoleon made this a major activity, and in America following World War I hundreds of states, cities and local organizations had medals made for local veterans.

81. SURVIVOR'S MEDALS A medal bestowed to a living relative of a military or naval person killed in the service.

82. MILITARY UNIT BADGES A pin identifying a military organization, highly emblematic and usually enameled.

83. CAP BADGES An insignia, a medallic item with a device on the reverse to attached it to headgear.

84. CARDS, STORECARDS A numismatic item issued as an advertisement by the sponsor or issuer; its called a storecard when the issuer is a retailer.

85. SPINNER MEDALS A medal or token used in games of chance which has a pointer on one side and a center projection point on the other allowing it to rotate or spin on a flat surface.

86. OPTICAL ILLUSION SPINNER MEDALS A medal which when spun both obverse and reverse appear as one view, also called edge spinner.

87. KEYS, PHI BETA KAPPA KEYS A charm shaped like a small tubular key usually indicating membership in a scholarly, fraternal or scientific organization.

88. ADILLIONS A small Jewish bullion proof surface medal mounted in a bezel for wearing as jewelry, invented in Israel.

89. FOBS, WATCHFOBS A special pendant medal with a wide loop worn by men usually attached to a leather strap, or to a metal chain to a pocket watch, what was once called a FOB SEAL. The rise of use of wristwatches diminished the need for such fobs.

90. PAPERWEIGHTS A medallic item intended for use on desktop to hold down papers, also called deskweights.

91. NAMEPLATES A metallic item bearing a name, often with other data, usually in rectangular shape.

92. PLATE INSERTS A medallic item attached to a metal plate; made as a gift item for women or plate collectors.

93. BOX MEDALS, SCREW MEDALS A medal machined in such a way that it has a hollow center - or one made of two sides with a hollowed inside - made to open up to reveal the inside chamber much like a locket; it is called a "screw medal" when the two sides are machined with threads that screw together.

94. TILES Thin square medals which are mounted in quantity on a flat surface, much like ceramic tiles, often of interlocking design.

95. BRELOQUES Adapting a portion of a large medallic design for a small portion to form a new medallic item.

96. SIGNET MEDALS A medal used like a signet ring to press into molten wax to make a wax seal.

97. ANAGLYPHS A small bas-relief item, as an art object in similitude to a cameo, gem, or other three-dimensional relief that is cast, carved, or chased.

98. WAFERS A very thin small metallic piece usually with design on one side only; their thickness is about one millimeter, gold bullion wafers have been made.

99. TROPHY HOUSE MEDALS A medallic item, often a stock item, with a design of a particular sport or event, poorly designed and cheaply made. You can't make them cheap enough to suit these merchants.

100. ASSASSINATION MEDALS A memorial medal issued following the killing of a leader, ruler or president, for the next JFK, Bobby Kennedy, or Martin Luther King.

101. TSUBAS Japanese sword guard; the protective guard between the blade of a sword and the handle; these are essentially medallions with an aperture for the sword blade to pass through. Tsuba makers developed similar techniques as design, plating and finishing as art medals made in the western world.

Ancient Tomb Rings

D. Wayne Johnson is a writer for the Medallic Art Company, based in Dayton, NV. Many of these articles are informational for many people who are interested in the art of medal making. Please visit the medallicart company at http://medallicart.com.

Men's Rings - The Masculine Accessory

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Men wearing rings is not a new phenomenon. Since ancient times, they have worn wedding bands and other practical pieces-practical because they actually served a purpose. For instance, men's thumb rings were worn to protect the fingers while shooting arrows and as an identifier for physicians.

Royalty and noblemen wore signet rings to identify their family and to serve as their official seal for correspondence. They dipped the ring in hot wax and pressed it to the documents. But today, the styles for men are becoming more fashionable and less about utility.

Trends and Styles

The tradition of exchanging class rings among teens is improved upon with the promise ring for girls and guys. Yes, there are men's promise rings. The concept is the same-the girl is pledging her love to her beau and promising that they have a future together. This ring is typically inexpensive and simple, usually just a band of gold or silver with the names engraved on it.

But, women are doing more than promising themselves, they are proposing. Sometimes waiting for the guy to get down on one knee just takes too long and it is not an uncommon practice for the woman to give a men's engagement ring to her lover. There are even sets so that the engagement and the wedding band match!

For the guy who has thick fingers, the chunky square fashion rings look great. These pieces often have gemstones like onyx and diamond or maybe a star sapphire in the center. Masonic rings can also be quite ornate, with symbols and diamonds and color.

Interesting new materials.

Men's rings are being made out of some interesting materials these days. It may sound like a part from a car, but a tungsten carbide ring is actually a popular accessory for guys. Men's wedding rings and other fashion pieces are being made from this incredibly durable metal.

When it is polished, it makes a dark smoky gray band that just oozes masculinity. Tungsten is a great metal for guys who work hard with their hands because it doesn't scratch or dent. It is also known for keeping its finish.

Another metal that has emerged in the jewelry market is titanium. This metal produces jewelry that is similar to the grayish shade of platinum. While it makes a good-looking ring, it is not quite as durable as tungsten.

Two-tone rings are also a trend in men's jewelry. They can combine white gold with tungsten or gold and platinum-whatever makes a bold statement. Textured surfaces are also popular. Faceted and laser matte finishes offer something different to the traditional shiny buffed finish.

Even if all he wears is a man's wedding band, there is a much larger and more fashionable selection than the gold bands of yesterday. Jewelers are having fun designing creations for this often forgotten about market. Men wear jewelry and they like to have a choice. So, whether it is a men's white gold ring for his thumb or a fabulous tungsten carbide wedding band for his ring finger, he can accessorize in style.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Men are fickle about the jewelry they wear, and that makes it difficult for the woman trying to find ideal ring for the special man in her life. For a selection of men's rings that will bring you and your man years of satisfaction, visit http://www.gemaffair.com

Delicious, Easy to Can Tomatoes

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

When I was growing up, my mother did not do much canning. One thing she did can was tomatoes and these are by far the best canned tomatoes I've ever eaten. They are very easy to can.

Ingredients: tomatoes, chopped onions, garlic (whole or chopped), jalapeno peppers(whole or chopped), lemon juice or vinegar,salt.

1. Use ripe tomatoes. Get a big pot of water. Fill it about 1/2 way and get it to boil.After rinsing the tomatoes off, score them with a slight slit (cross) on bottom (optional). Do not go deep into tomato. Place the tomatoes into the water. Fill up the pot with tomatoes. The water should be over top of the tomatoes. You may have to add more water. You may have to skim some off if it is overflowing. It shouldn't take long and you will see the skins begin to crack. The tomatoes are ready when they peel off easily, 1-2 minutes.

Have a big bowl or pot of cold water ready. You will drop the hot tomatoes in to the cold water. Peel by lifting the skin of the tomatoes off. Set the peeled tomatoes into another big bowl. Cut off cores with small serrated knife. Some suggest coring them before they are placed in the hot water. Do whatever works best for you.

Do not let your blanched tomatoes sit for hours and hours before they are canned. They will begin to go bad.

Have a bowl of each ready:onions, garlic, and jalapeno peppers (whole or chopped).

You may use an electric processor or blender that chops. You do not want to make a puree. CAUTION: Be careful not to get too much jalapeno or garlic juice on your hands or under your fingernails as you chop. My skin isn't too sensitive, but I have known people that have been miserable with their skin burning from the jalapeno and garlic. You may use food grade gloves if you will be chopping a lot by hand. Also, you may buy the garlic already cut up in the jar. Honestly, pickled garlic doesn't taste nearly as good as fresh garlic. If you are going through all this trouble, your canned tomatoes might as well taste the best they can.

2. Stuff peeled and cored tomatoes in sterilized jars. I buy my mason jars at garage sales. If you have the choice large mouth mason jars are easier to use. The lids are more expensive though. The small mouth rings will fit glass mayonnaise jars. They may be used for canning. The Amish use mayonnaise jars all the time.

3. Stuff tomatoes about 1/3 of the way then add tablespoon garlic and a tablespoon onions. Jalapenoes optional. Add more tomatoes filling about 2/3 of jar. Add another tablespoon garlic and tablespoon onions. For looks, push the garlic, onions, and peppers to outside of jar. Make sure you stuff tomatoes as tight as you can, otherwise your tomatoes will rise and a lot of juice will be on the bottom. I usually have a gadget to push down tomatoes as I tilt my jar over a bowl to catch the juice. I will can the juice for drinking or adding to chili (of course with onions, garlic and salt).

I cut a slit into one whole jalapeno and place it halfway to outside of jar. They will be hot. If you are like me and like the flavor of the jalapeno, but not like them so hot, buy the sliced jalapenos in the jar and add a couple spoonfuls. They will not be nearly as hot and will be delicious. Finish filling with tomatoes.

4. Leave 1/ 2 to 3/4 inch head space in top of jar.

5. Add 3/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt on top. Some use canning salt. I use real salt or sea salt.

6. Wipe top of jars with a CLEAN paper towel to remove any debris or juice before placing on lid. After placing on the lid, screw the ring on tightly.Have lids and rings sterilized in a hot pan of water. I put these through the dishwasher too. Do not overheat your lids. NEVER USE USED LIDS. The rings can be used over and over again for years though. It is important to get a good seal.

7. Fill canner about 1/2 way to start. You will want about one inch of water over top of jars. If you have to buy a canner, they are very reasonable. I do see them quite often at garage sales. Do not wait for garage sales if your tomatoes are ready. You will have this canner for years and be able to use it a lot.

8. Place all seven jars into canner: I use quart size jars.

9. Boil for 40 minutes. Remove with jar clamps. I set the jars on a towel and leave them. You will begin to hear them pop as they seal. I love that sound. Make sure they all seal. It may take awhile, sometimes hours. If you have one that doesn't seal place it the refrigerator after it is cooled.

Tomatoes may be pressured cooked by following pressure cooker manual.

Ancient Tomb Rings

My husband and I have been married 28 years, I'm a stay-at-home mother of five, and we live on a beautiful three-acre lot with a pond - all on my husband's construction worker's salary - all with no debt.

Want to know more, check out my blog at www.homefrugalhome.com
Anna

Onyx Rings - A Buyer's Guide

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Black onyx signet rings have been favored by men for centuries. During ancient times a signet ring was often used as a visible sign of the wearer's social status, enabling others to identify him as an important member of a government, political faction, religious order or influential family or clan. The word "signet" is derived from the word "sign" and signet rings were often used to leave an imprint of a sign or symbol on letters, important documents and other correspondence. Usually, wax from a burning candle was allowed to drip onto the document and while it was still hot the signet ring was applied to it with pressure, leaving the symbol found on the ring clearly impressed on the wax. Kings, Queens and other royalty utilized this method of placing their official seal on documents.

Signet rings were usually made from silver or gold and eventually jewelers started blending precious metals and integrating gemstones into their ring designs. During the past century or so, black onyx has become a favorite of jewelers and there are countless military, religious, fraternal and organizationally related signet rings in existence and their popularity has only increased over the past decade or so.

Black onyx signet rings were typically worn on the wearer's pinky finger during past centuries, but over time they evolved into a larger style ring worn on the traditional ring finger. Men typically prefer larger, more massive rings, while women favor smaller, more elegant ones. Gold and silver signet rings are equally popular among men and women, though younger people often prefer a more plain style of ring, while older people tend to opt for more ornate designs that are often blended with intricate settings, diamonds and other gemstones. Jewelers have mastered the art of integrating onyx stones into their ring designs and there are literally thousands of styles and shapes to choose from.

Some points to consider when shopping for one of these rings include assessing which styles, shapes, etc., will best mesh with the wearer's current jewelry? The same goes for the wearer's clothing; some designs better compliment specific clothing styles and a smart shopper will pay attention to this issue and seek the advice of a competent jeweler. Another consideration is the environment the wearer lives in, works in, socializes in, etc. Some designs stand up to heavy use than others. Delicately made women's signet rings may not hold up under the repeated stress of housework, while some men's rings most likely would not fare well with a wearer who works as a stone mason or other occupation requiring extensive use of one's hands.

In recent years black onyx signet rings have become quite popular with younger men and women, many of whom opt for a family crest or coat of arms carved into the black onyx stone. Many dealers are offering these rings and though they are quite expensive, they remain highly sought after by many because of the status the rings convey to others. Black onyx is a perfect material for this purpose and is easily carved and shaped to create the desired image, symbol or design.

You can find black onyx signet rings at many local jewelers, but we feel that you'll find the widest selection and best prices buy researching and shopping online. The number of merchants found on the internet will enable you to review and choose from a selection of ring styles, shapes, etc., that practically no local jeweler could match with their in-store inventory. The good news is that because there are so many jewelers and dealers selling these rings, prices are always under pressure to remain as low as possible and this results in consumers having many options to find a great deal!

Ancient Tomb Rings

Majda Liban writes about various fashion and home related topics. See more of her work at http://www.blackonyxrings.org

Mason Jars - The Invention That Made Modern Life Possible

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

On November 30th, 1858 a 26 year old tinsmith from New York City walked into the US Patent Office with an invention of his and a patent application in his hand. The application read in part, "Be it known that I, John L. Mason, of the city, county, and State of New York, have invented new and useful Improvements in the Necks of Bottles, Jars, & especially such as are intended to be air and water tight, such as are used for sweetmeats..."

He walked out a bit later with his patent and the world would never be the same.

The Mason Jar

It seems so obvious now. But most great inventions and discoveries seem obvious after someone else comes up with them. Mold interlocking threads into the top of a glass jar and their mirror grooves into a tin top. Add a ring of rubber to help the jar to seal and you would have a water-tight, air-tight vessel for preserving food.

This simple development gave rural families across the country a safe and easy alternative to pickling, smoking and drying of foods. Canning allows food to be preserved in a much more natural state.

Today's Grocery Stores

You won't see a lot of mason jars in the grocery today - tomato and spaghetti sauces, jams and jellies and home-style soups are about the extent of them - but today's grocery owes much of its existence to them.

Canning, along with freezing, has become the preferred method of preserving fresh food due in large part to the fact that both methods allow food to retain its natural flavor and texture. Often the only thing in the jar is the food.

Ancient Tomb Rings

I hope you enjoyed this short food history. Here is a site your may enjoy also.

If you have a Charmglow Gas Grill and you want to keep it working in tip top condition, visit our new site all about Charmglow Gas Grill Parts for information on the best deals and sources for all the parts and accessories you need.

http://charmglowgrillparts.info

Pickling Your Vegetables For Long Term Preservation

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

One of the most popular ways to extend food life is to pickle it. Pickling is the process of preserving food through fermentation in a brine. Many vegetables get pickled or made into relish including cucumbers, okra, peppers, summer squash, unripe cantaloupe, watermelon rind, tomatoes, eggs, onions, garlic, etc, etc. Pickling lowers the PH to less than 4.6, which is sufficient to kill most bacteria and is somewhat easier to do than canning in that the vegetables do not have to be completely sterile to pickle.

You will need to buy some equipment up front but after your initial investment, you should not need anything but a few ingredients to pickle your food. You will need a large pot that is big enough to boil water and mostly submerge the jars in order to seal them. You can seal the jars one at a time or get something big enough to do several at once. Buy as many 1 QT canning/mason jars as you think you will need (I buy them by the case), just make sure they have rings to seal the lids. Though the process is not too difficult, it makes sense to make as many jars as possible at one time, given you have enough vegetables.

Now that you have your equipment, and hopefully picked some fresh veggies from your organic garden, you are ready to pickle. There are thousands of recipes for pickling, and different nuances according to the different vegetables. It would be impossible to cover everything, but there are numerous detailed books about pickling available to give you ideas and guidance. My favorites are a combination of multiple recipes that I have tried over the years. What follows is a very basic recipe that will work for just about vegetable, but it should be considered a pickle recipe:

Pickling Ingredients:

- 7 wide mouth quart jars, lids & rings

- fresh dill (keep the heads on the stems)

- cucumbers (washed/scrubbed). I use pickling cucumbers, about the size of the average pickle.

- garlic cloves (jalepenos, small peppers and onion can also be added)

Brine:

- 8 ½ cups of water

- 2 ¼ cups white vinegar

- ½ cup pickling salt

Pickling Directions:

Do all of this before filling your jars -

1. Wash the jars in hot, soapy water. Rinse and fill with hot water. Set aside

2. Fill canning kettle half full with hot tap water. Set on burner over high heat

3. In a medium sauce pan, fit lids and rings together, cover with water, bring to a simmer (you are make them sterile).

4. In a large pan, bring the brine (water, vinegar and salt) to a boil. After it boils, turn off the heat.

5. Fill jars - place a layer of dill at the bottom of every jar, along with a clove or two of garlic (if you are using it). Tightly load cukes from your fresh organic garden into the jar to the neck of the jar. You may need 2 layers to achieve this. Put a few more sprigs of dill & garlic to the top.

6. Pour in brine, leaving about a half inch from the top.

7. Screw on lid w/ ring gasket, making sure it is tightly sealed.

8. Place jars in a pan (or canner) with water just to the neck of the jars

9. Bring water almost to a boil (should be about 15 minutes, depending)

10. Remove jars, set on a dish towel and cover with dish towel & let cool.

11. Check for seal (indented lid). If they are not sealed, you can try re-sealing them in the near boiling water.

12. Label the jars/lids with content, date, recipe (so you will know which ones you like better).

13. Store in a cool, dark place

Your cucumbers will be ready to eat after 2 weeks and will keep for months. You will find that there is some variance in texture and taste as they age, so you may wind up preferring to age them longer. If you were not able to get any of the jars to seal, you will want to refrigerate them immediately and you can eat the contents after a couple days. Unsealed jars will not keep well for very long.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Mark is an avid organic gardener and writes for offthegridsurvival which promotes off the grid living, providing for yourself, and disaster preparedness.

Preserving Peppers - Hot Peppers and How to Preserve Them in a Variety of Tasty Ways

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

Whether you enjoy mild sweet peppers or the hotter varieties, they are easy to grow and preserve. There are many pepper varieties that can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in pepper vinegars, salsas, and hot sauces. Some of my favorite varieties include:

* Jalapeno peppers

* Sweet bell peppers

* Sweet and hot banana peppers

* Poblano peppers

* Habanero peppers

* Serrano chili peppers

* Cayenne peppers

* Tabasco peppers

* Gypsy hybrid peppers

* Cherry peppers

* Hungarian wax peppers

* Cubanelle peppers

The method you choose for preserving peppers depends largely on the variety. Typically, I preserve my harvest in one of these ways: by freezing, in sauces, in salsas, in vinegars, or by drying.

To freeze peppers, harvest fresh and crisp young peppers and wash them. Peppers will go limp quickly, so pick them shortly before you plan to freeze them. Cut the peppers in half and remove seeds. I dry the seeds, place them in small plastic storage bags, label, and save for next year's planting.

Slice peppers into rings or julienne slices. Boil water and blanch peppers for 2-3 minutes. Cool quickly in ice water and thoroughly drain. Place in zippered freezer bags and seal. Label outside of bag with a permanent marker, including the variety and the date. Use the frozen peppers in cooked foods such as soups, stews, gumbos, chili, pasta dishes, spaghetti sauce, stir fries, etc.

To make hot pepper vinegar, pack washed hot peppers into a glass jar or bottle. I use Tabasco peppers. I often mix green and red peppers together. Be sure it is glass designed to withstand heat so it will not crack from the hot vinegar. I prefer to use a bottle designed for pouring or sprinkling. Add salt if desired for flavoring. Pour hot vinegar over the peppers, leaving a bit of head space. Seal tightly and let steep for 4-5 weeks. Experiment with different types of vinegar such as white, cider, sherry, and other flavored vinegars. Hot pepper vinegar makes a nice gift. Give it a personal touch by adding homespun fabric and a handmade gift tag.

You can also make your own salsa. There are many recipes for homemade salsa. Your recipe choice depends largely on your taste. The choice of peppers depends on whether you want mild or hot salsa. Once your salsa is made, ladle into Mason canning jars and process according to your home canner directions. Be certain that each jar "pops" when cooling from the canning process. This indicates that the jar has properly sealed. Unsealed canned foods are not safe.

You can dry peppers in an oven, in a food dehydrator, or you can simply air dry them. I prefer the air drying method. I take a very strong needle and "sew" them together with very strong quilting thread. I leave room between peppers so air can circulate. I suspend them in front of a sunny window and allow them to completely dry, which usually takes several weeks. When fully dried, store in zippered bags or plastic containers. I use these primarily in stir fries, fried rice, and pasta dishes. Dried seeds, such as hot red pepper flakes, are great for seasoning foods like pizza and pasta. You can rehydrate dried peppers prior to use by soaking in water, if desired.

Be careful when handling hot peppers. The oils can burn you. I use thin latex gloves when handling hot peppers, and I avoid touching my skin, face, lips, and eyes. Be care of other items you handle also during this process. When my daughter was young, I was in the midst of handling hot peppers and she wanted a kiwi. I peeled and sliced the kiwi, and she complained that it was a very spicy kiwi. You can always remove your gloves and wash your hands if needed.

REPRINT RIGHTS statement: This article is free for republishing by visitors provided the Author Bio box is retained as usual so that all links are Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Laura Brown is an experienced ghostwriter and professional freelance author. She also enjoys gardening and cooking. You can find some delicious recipes and gardening tips on her website, The Rancher's Daughter, along with a lot of useful information on gardening, cooking, flowers, and living in the country. Learn more about Preserving Peppers at Laura's website.

The Three Musketeers - Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

There was once a teacher who was teaching first grade in a large elementary school. One morning all of the teachers were called to the staff room for an emergency meeting, and they hurried over, leaving their classes unsupervised. All of the teachers were worried, but none more so than this particular teacher, because her class was especially mischievous and unruly.

When they got to the staff room, the teacher decided to listen in and find out what was going on in her classroom. She turned on the intercom, and sure enough her room was in chaos. Children were yelling, jumping and throwing things. But one little voice stood out above the others. The teacher recognized the voice. She picked up the intercom and in her sternest voice said, "Elizabeth, sit down!"

Immediately, the room fell silent. After a few seconds, a small humble voice answered meekly, "Okay, God"

I'd like to jog your memories for a few moments. Most of you, especially the older members of this congregation, may remember the TV series "Perry Mason" or perhaps you've read some of the Perry Mason novels that were written by Erle Stanley Gardner. If you are closer to my age, you may remember the Perry Mason made-for-TV movies that came out in the 1980s. In any event, from September of 1957 to October of 1966, Perry Mason tried 270 murder cases on television, and more in the novels and made-for-TV movies, and only lost two of them AT FIRST GLANCE. In both of those two cases, he came through with new information and at the last moment reversed the verdict and cleared his client. The mere mention of his name struck the fear of God into the hearts of any prosecutor. Well folks, there IS one prosecutor that even Perry Mason cannot beat, and that is the Holy Spirit.

Today, as we celebrate Trinity Sunday, we can think of the Trinity as a courtroom. God is the judge, the Holy Spirit is the prosecutor, and Jesus is our defense lawyer. When the prosecutor, the Holy Spirit, presents his case, no one will have any defense on their own; however, everyone can have a defense because Jesus Christ has offered to take any case for free if he is allowed to, because he has already paid the ultimate price for our defense. If he is not allowed to take our case, and the verdict of "guilty' rings out for all eternity, every defendant will acknowledge it is true, and the entire world will know it. To me, this analogy is accurate but harsh. I prefer to think of the Trinity in terms of mediation in a dispute. God is the mediator/arbiter, Jesus represents our side of the dispute, and the Holy Spirit represents the other side.

The concept of the Trinity is a difficult concept for us to grasp, and part of this problem lies in how it is presented in John's Gospel. John wrote his Gospel for an audience that was primarily Greek. The Greeks were leaders in science, thought and philosophy. In other words, Greek society was very intelligent and highly sophisticated, especially in terms of understanding abstract concepts. This is one reason why John's Gospel is very theological in nature.

Trinitarian Theology is complicated for a reason. The very complications of the Trinity are designed to bring us closer to God. There is something we need to know. We don't know everything about God, but we know everything about Him that we need to know. The Scriptures assure us of that. We do not have to understand everything, spiritual or non-spiritual the minute we become adults and that includes the Trinity. We know enough to save us. God pours out grace upon us, in abundance and consistently, whether we realize it or not. The Holy Spirit helps us and the Church to understand all of what Jesus said, especially what he said about God.

The Trinity is one of the most fascinating aspects of Christian theology, but it is also one of the most controversial. It is a mystery to us because it is a reality that is above our human ability to understand things. We can begin to grasp it on our own, but we must really discover it through worship, symbol and faith. In essence, the trinity is the belief that God is one in essence, but distinct in person. In other words, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are somehow distinct from one another, yet at the same time they are completely united in essence, will and tasks.

The Trinity is a mystery, but this does not mean a riddle. Instead, the Trinity is a reality above our human comprehension that we may begin to grasp, but ultimately must know through worship, symbol and faith. In order to understand it, we must live in the light of its implications for our human lives. The relationship that exists among the three divine persons suggests to us that we can know God through our relationships---not only in God's relationship to us, but to the entire created world.

In spite of its abstract, theological nature, John's Gospel has an ordinary, down-to-earth purpose; namely, to lead people to Christ. John did not believe that "truth' consisted of what he had written or that it could be found only in the Scriptures. He was speaking of spiritual truth rather than the philosophical, historical or scientific truth which has enveloped the world since the Age of Enlightenment over three hundred years ago. He gave us a method of determining that is spiritually true and what is not. The fundamental criterion of truth for the church is that it must always witness to Christ and reveal God's purpose that love shall be of first importance in all relationships throughout the whole of creation.

In today's Gospel reading, Jesus is setting the stage for his upcoming death, resurrection and ascension. The disciples are understandably quite terrified. Their lives are about to take a dramatic turn. They are quite concerned about the future. How would they continue to do his work without his presence and guidance?

That was a valid question, and it is the same question many Christians have today. How are we going to do Christ's work in our society? How are we to care for the less fortunate and spread the Good News? Fortunately for both us and the disciples, Jesus had an answer. He promised to send another advocate or helper-the Holy Spirit. The Spirit would not be bound by Jesus' limitations of time and space. Whereas Jesus could only travel slowly and teach those within the sound of his voice, the Holy Spirit could be present anywhere and everywhere-throughout the world and throughout history.

Jesus knew that his disciples could not face the reality of his death and resurrection or the reality of their own persecutions for doing his work. They were too weak at that time to face that reality. It would be the job of the Holy Spirit to guide them and strengthen them for the challenges they would face. Many of us face the same concerns today. We often feel that we are too weak to do God's work on our own, and in fact we ARE weak. We cannot do it alone. We need the teachings and the strengthening power that the Holy Spirit provides.

The Spirit will guide us in our life's journey. It will be the still, small voice inside of us that says either "Don't do that!" or "Go for it! " He will guide us in the right direction like a built-in compass. How many coincidences in life are eventually understood to be considerably beyond the level of "chance in the long run? Perhaps there have been times in our lives when, for just a fleeting moment, we have been overtaken in some circumstance by the urge to acknowledge "something"-something which had caused an impossible situation to take a turn for a better...just when our finely laid calculations and finely made plans were at the point of collapse. Something happened. A new direction, a difference perspective, another alternative emerged from the confusion. Some call it intuition or inspired genius or coincidence. Others call it the promise Jesus made to us; namely, the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus tells us that the Spirit will lead us into the truth. The Spirit will speak with the authority of God, telling us what God is thinking. The Spirit will give Jesus glory because he will translate what Jesus has to say to us. He will tell us what to do and what to say when we are doing God's work. The Spirit can do this because it is not an "it". He is a person with knowledge, a will, a mind and affections. You can lie to him, insult him and grieve him. He is not am impersonal force. He is not Popeye's spinach or a surfer's wave. He is God within you to help you. In fact, John calls him the Helper. He never leaves us. He comforts the saved, convicts the lost and conveys the truth.

The Holy Spirit is the force that gives us energy, but it comes to a group and not to individuals. All we have to do is remember the story of Pentecost that we heard last week, where the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples with tongues and fire and gave them the ability to speak in different languages to see that this is the case. The only way we can get the same energy other than by studying God's Word in the Bible is by associating with fellow believers. The energy that we get from fellow believers is actually the Holy Spirit coming to us. In his Pentecost letter to the Anglican Communion, the Archbishop of Canterbury encourages Anglicans to pray for renewal in the Spirit and focus on the priority of mission, so that "we may indeed do what God asks of us and let all people know that new and forgiven life in Christ is possible"

The great evangelist D.L. Moody once planned to have a campaign in England. An elderly pastor protested, "Why do we need this 'Mr. Moody'? He's uneducated, inexperienced, etc. Who does he think he is anyway? Does he think he has a monopoly on the Holy Spirit?" A younger, wiser pastor rose and responded, "No, but the Holy Spirit has a monopoly on Mr. Moody".

Speaking to a large audience, D.L. Moody held up a glass and asked, "How can I get the air out of this glass?" One man shouted, "Suck it out with a pump!" moody replied, "That would create a vacuum and shatter the glass." After numerous other suggestions Moody smiled, picked up a pitcher of water, and filled the glass. "There," he said, "all the air is now removed." He then went on to explain that victory in the Christian life is not accomplished by "sucking out a sin here and there," but by being filled with the Holy Spirit.

In every area of our inadequacy, the Holy Spirit encourages us to meet our needs in a way that honours God. He leads us to salvation, regenerates us, convicts us of our sinfulness, teaches us to live for Christ, and seals us for redemption. The Holy Spirit does not deal with the symptoms of a problem. He deals with the cause, just like a doctor treats the cause of human illnesses and not just the symptoms. Sins are just the symptoms. Sin is the problem. Sins are the fruit of our problem; sin is the root of the problem. The Spirit equips us and empowers us to accomplish everything that God calls us to do. The Holy Spirit's role is to glorify Christ not in his own person, in the view of estimation of men. He serves as an intermediary between Jesus and the church. He is also the continuing presence of Jesus, who brings the power and word of Jesus to bear on our lives.

The Spirit breathes upon our lives in many ways. It is the Spirit who calls us to various Christian ministries, whether it be ordained ministry, lay ministry, reading Scripture during worship services, or even just the way we lead our lives. The Spirit even leads us to teach others in our lives about Christ.

Our world can be confusing. That's why John 16:13 attracts believers. "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth..." If there is one thing we need today, it is to be led by the Spirit of truth. The Spirit will guide us to remember the truth, reproduce the truth and receive the truth. It will help us to find the truth, act upon the truth, and speak the truth. In order to do so, we have to find him. We find him by:

1. Acknowledging his leadership.

2. Asking for his leadership.

3. Accepting his leadership.

The Spirit works with us to guide us closer to God in faith and helps us to do his work in the world. In this way, the Holy Spirit acts as our helper. He lives inside us and knows us even better than we know ourselves. He works 24 hours a day 7 days a week to enable us to be the person God wants us to be AND to help us grow in the likeness of Christ. There is no problem that he can't handle. He will help us get through our troubles and will also use our burdens to teach us about God's love, power and wisdom.

The Spirit will also guide the church as it wrestles with issues such as homosexuals in the church, abortion, war, and capital punishment. Jesus did not speak directly on these issues, so we need the Spirit's guidance. He does this by giving us the answer to these two questions:

1. What would Jesus do in these circumstances?

2. What would Jesus want us to do?

If it points to the need for change, the Spirit will help us to facilitate change and flow with change. It uses our experiences and those of others to teach us, and it reveals to us the truth we need to live our lives.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Craig Condon, Lay Minister, Anglican Parish of South Queens, Liverpool, NS Canada. He can be reached by email at craig.condon2@ns.sympatico.ca.

Home Canning - How to Make Homemade Pear Marmalade

Learn the Secrets to the Masonic Seal Ring from Ancient Tomb Rings

When it comes to home canning, one of the easiest recipes you can make is some type of fruit marmalade and this pear marmalade recipe is no exception.

You will need your basic home canning supplies: water bath canner, half-pint or pint-sized mason jars, seals and rings, jar lifter, ladle, silicone nonstick spatula and a funnel.

If you enjoy giving homemade food gifts during the holiday season, this is a nice one to make and give as a gift. If you seal your mason jars correctly, this marmalade should last for up to 1 year.

Pear Marmalade Recipe

4 lbs. fresh pears

8 cups granulated sugar

2 cups tap water

4 fresh oranges

1 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated orange rind

Wash and remove stems and leaves from pears. Peel off the skins and chop the flesh up into small pieces. Peel the skin off the oranges and discard the seeds and membranes. Reserve one small piece of the orange rind and finely grate it until you have 1 1/2 teaspoons of finely grated orange rind. Chop the flesh of the oranges into small pieces.

In a large stock pot, combine all of the above ingredients and bring to a rapid boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for approximately 45 minutes or until the mixture thickens. You will need to stir the mixture every 8 to 10 minutes using a nonstick silicone spatula to keep it from sticking to the pot.

Wash and clean your half-pint or pint-sized mason jars. You will want to warm up your jars using your oven set at 200 degrees F. Remove jars from the oven, one at a time. Ladle the hot mixture into clean warm jars leaving a 1/2" head space. Wipe the jar rim clean with a soft cotton towel. Place ring and seal onto the jar.

Process jars in your water bath canner for 10 minutes or according to manufacturers instructions.

This recipe will make approximately 4 to 5 half-pint jars of marmalade.

Ancient Tomb Rings

Shelly Hill has been working from home since 1989 and is a Manager with Tupperware. Shelly enjoys cooking and baking for her family and friends and trying out new recipes. You can visit Shelly online at http://www.workathomebusinessoptions.com or at http://wahmshelly.blogspot.com for additional free recipes and cooking tips.