When Life Gives You Cucumbers, Make Pickles

I planted one small cucumber vine thinking it would produce enough for slicing on salads this summer.  I never imagined that one vine would not only creep beyond the boundaries of the garden but would yield a superabundance of crunchy green cukes!  These past few days, I picked 20 cucumbers...far exceeding my salad needs.  What to do?  

I turn to my new best friend, Mrs. Wages for advice.  We met in the canning supply aisle at Ingles. Mrs. Wages has become my canning tutor.  The company also sells a number of canning mixes for anything from salsa to ketchup to all variations of pickles. I purchased the Kosher Dill Pickle quick process packet, a case of Ball-Kerr Mason Jars, some vinegar and a few other canning necessities, then set to work.  While they are not certified kosher (no rabbi with me in the kitchen), I now have seven quarts of dill pickles just waiting to adorn my next burger or spice up my tuna salad.

Often in life I find myself with way more than I expected or can manage.  What to do?  Complaining and whining only leave me feeling overwhelmed and full of despair.  The only answer is to make the most of what is before me with God's help.  

So, when life gives you cucumbers, make pickles!