Something To Do: Make Strawberry Preserve

Moms, if you're looking for something to do while your children are napping try making strawberry preserve with all those strawberries you picked. In a small pot dissolve 2 cups of sugar with 1/2 cup water (or the juice of one lemon) over low heat. You can also add the seeds of a vanilla bean and the bean itself for more flavor. Stir constantly.

Meanwhile, in a large pot place your mason jar parts into boiling water and let boil for 10 minutes. This sterilizes the jars and parts.

Heat up a shallow pot or pan and add 3 cups of strawberry halves. Pour your sugar syrup into the pan and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Test your mixture by placing a teaspoon on a very cold plate. Let sit for a few seconds and tilt the plate. If it runs fast, it's not ready. If it runs very slowly it's ready for jarring. Remove vanilla bean before jarring.

Use tongs to remove mason jar parts from boiling water. Divide mixture among the jars leaving about 1/2" space at the top. Place lids on securely and replace into boiling water. Boil for additional 10 minutes. Let cool for 24 hours. The preserve is great on scones, ice cream and biscuits.