“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”

—Thorin Oakenshield (J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, 1995)

Latest Posts


  • Apricot Jam (no pectin)

    Apricot jam has been a staple in my family as long as I can remember because most of my family loves apricot anything. My kid, like my parents and sister, loves having it on pancakes, biscuits, toast, and waffles. I… Continue reading

    Apricot Jam (no pectin)
  • Apricot Butter

    For this recipe, I started with the Silky Apricot Butter recipe from Ball. However, due to the way that I prepare my apricots, there are some slight differences. Because I puree my apricots after removing the skins rather than putting… Continue reading

    Apricot Butter
  • Prepping Apricots

    WARNING: Do NOT transport fresh home-grown fruit from a quarantine area into or through a pest-free area. Preparing apricots for canning can be quite the process, and individuals definitely have preferences. I prefer to rinse and pit the apricots before… Continue reading

    Prepping Apricots
  • Making Apricot Nectar

    Growing up, my mother would buy apricot nectar in a can at the grocery store and serve it to my siblings and I when we would have a sore throat. When we moved to a home with an apricot tree… Continue reading

    Making Apricot Nectar
  • Little Helpers (aka puppy tax)

    My three little helpers are all Bichon/Shih Tzu crosses. Soft, cuddly, and relatively hypoallergenic, they like to hang out on the furniture, investigate the kitchen, and clean up anything I accidentally drop on the floor. Percival (Percy) is my son’s… Continue reading

    Little Helpers (aka puppy tax)
  • Welcome to My World!

    Hi, I’m Krista, and this is my little adventure in bringing my hobbies and gaming fun to life. I’m glad you’re joining me for this journey. I’ve always felt a bit like I was born in the wrong era. My… Continue reading

    Welcome to My World!