A million birthdays before I sleep...

What does it take to turn 5?  Apparently two birthday cakes, three parties and some PB&J cupcakes (in a pear tree).
I made both of these with my two little arthritis filled hands and enjoyed every moment of it.  They were a labor of love still fueled by the guilt of a store bought cake on his 2nd birthday.  They tasted as good as they looked and my little man loved them.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cupcakes

Oh yes I did.

I used a basic cake mix for this but added a few unique touches.  After allowing the cupcakes to completely cool I filled a long tip squeeze bottle with grape jelly, poked it into the top of each and squeezed a little jelly goodness into the center of each one.  Then I made the icing using peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar and a touch of milk. 

I know a certain pre-k class that devoured them along with a couple teachers.

Jammin'

There are things in the world that are impossible; levitation, keeping on top of laundry and winning the lottery without buying a ticket.  Making jam in an hour... possible!  Don't call me crazy like it's an insult, making home made jam in an hour is truly achievable.

Freezer Jam
1 quart strawberries
4 cups sugar
1 pkg Sure Jell pectin
3/4 cups water

Wash, hull and chop strawberries.  Using a potato masher, mash the strawberries to release juice but leave some little chunks of fruit too!  Let sit for about 10 minutes.
While the berries are resting, bring to a boil the water and pectin.  Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add the sugar and water to the berries.  Stir for 3 minutes until the sugar is dissolved.   Then pour into prepared jars.  I use the little tiny jam jars since we don't go through a whole lot at once.

I got almost 7 jars out of this recipe, most of which were given away.  One of the jars I gave away was to my friend Beqi- she ate it with a spoon and promptly returned the jar when she heard that might mean getting more sooner.  Yes folks, it's that good.