This is a nice picture I found on the web, entitled ‘Taking Stock’ and I’m just doing that for the year 2011. I thought I might share a few facts and factoids. First, the production numbers — I made a little more than 3500 jars of jam in 2011, and in more than 90 different varieties. I sold in four different markets and in a number of private sales.
I don’t have good records but the most popular jams were the pie cherry, strawberry rhubarb, strawberry with basil and balsamic vinegar and the red pepper jelly. I particularly liked the nectarine with basil and lemon, the apple, lemon and honey, the meyer lemon and Murcott Tangerine marmalades — oh hell, I liked them all. I enjoyed working with fruits new to me — quince and crabapple were both great. My best invention was the fig with date, lemon and espresso.
I enjoyed working with my Farmer’s Market pals — Craig from Tandoozi, Susan the Ebelskiver gal, Heather from Skagit Sun, Dave from Island Apiaries, the guys from Hand Farm, Jennifer, Icel and Geza from Crown S. Ranch. Don’t forget those hard working and lovely market managers — Edie and Lori.
I’m looking forward to a new year. If you really like me, you’ll look for a source of reasonably priced wild huckleberries, tayberries, local figs and local quince. See you in 2012.
