Amish jam can be a healthier option compared to mass-produced alternatives because it often uses simple ingredients like fruit and sugar without artificial preservatives. Some varieties, including no sugar added options, provide a more natural choice for those looking to enjoy traditional flavors with fewer processed ingredients. Health depends on ingredients. Amish-style jams are often: Made with real fruit Free from artificial additives Produced in smaller batches Health-conscious opti …

The History of Cinco de Mayo According to Britannica, "Cinco de Mayo, holiday celebrated on May 5 in parts of Mexico and the United States in honor of a military victory over the French forces of Napoleon III in 1862, known as the Battle of Puebla. Cinco de Mayo is not to be confused with Mexican Independence Day, which falls on September 16. The latter holiday was established in 1810, some 50 years before the Battle of Puebla occurred." "Th …

Apple butter is a thick, smooth spread made by slowly cooking apples with spices until the sugars caramelize. Unlike jam, it contains no actual butter. The result is a rich, concentrated apple flavor with a deep brown color, commonly used on toast, biscuits, and baked goods. Apple butter is: Made by slow-cooking apples for hours Naturally thickened through reduction Often spiced with cinnamon or cloves Key differences vs jam: No chunks Smoother texture Deeper flavor Taste Traditi …

Shouldn't we all just take this little piece of advice to heart?  I know sometimes it's a lot easier said than done. There could be a million different things that could make someone happy... all the way from the tiniest gesture up to the most extravagant gift!  We are all different, in so many ways, so something that could make me happy might be something completely different than what might make you happy!  According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition of happiness is …

What Are Pickled Foods? Benefits, Types, and Traditional Uses Pickled foods are foods that have been preserved in a vinegar-based brine or salt solution to extend shelf life and enhance flavor. This traditional method of food preservation has been used for centuries and remains popular today for its bold taste and versatility. The pickling process creates a tangy, slightly sour flavor while helping foods last longer without refrigeration in earlier times. Today, pickled foods are enjoyed not onl …

I was blessed with an awesome family.  So along with that blessing came an abundance of wonderful childhood memories.  At the forefront of those memories are my great grandma, as we lovingly referred to as "Mur".  She lived to be 3 days shy of her 100th birthday.  I was so excited for this milestone, as I never personally knew anyone who turned 100 years old!  My mom was actually flying out to California for a surprise visit to her, but instead went to attend her funeral …

The difference between jam and jelly comes down to texture and ingredients. Jam is made with crushed fruit, giving it a thicker, more textured consistency, while jelly is made from fruit juice, resulting in a smoother, clearer spread. Both are sweet, but jam typically has a more robust fruit flavor. The key difference is how the fruit is used: Jam → Made from crushed or chopped fruit Jelly → Made from strained fruit juice This affects: Texture Appearance Flavor intensity …

Can you just imagine if we woke up every morning to this picture in the sky?  Wouldn't it just put an instant smile on your face?  I know it sure would mine! I am sure there is a ton of scientific research out there to argue this question either way, but in my opinion, smiling is extremely contagious.  According to the bit of research I have done, this happens because of "mirror neurons, which are brain cells that fire when we perform an action and also when we observe the same ac …

The best brooms for hardwood floors and outdoor use are Amish-made brooms crafted in the USA, designed with natural broomcorn for superior sweeping, durability, and long-lasting performance. What Is the Best Type of Broom? The best broom depends on where and how you use it: Hardwood floors → Medium Amish broom (soft, controlled sweep) Outdoor surfaces → Barn broom (heavy-duty sweeping power) Everyday cleaning → Medium broom (versatile and balanced) Unlike plastic brooms, Amish-m …

I never thought I'd say this as an adult, with excitement that is...but I have come to LOVE camping!  I do think it's mostly because we SPLURGED a few years ago and bought a small Class C RV.  And we live in Western North Carolina, so it's kind of hard NOT to love it.  Just for a little added bonus, there is another reason to love living here.  BEARS!  We only lived here for one month in 2020 when we got to see our first one, right next door in our neighbor's garbage.&n …