Raspberry Time!

We have a raspberry patch on our property, and it's bursting with berries this time of year. While it's not as adventurous as picking berries out in the woods or tundra, I appreciate having lots of berries nearby.

I love the zen of picking berries, how my mind clears of everything else as my eyes catch the sight of the ruby-red jewels on the branches. And there's nothing like a burst of sweet-tartness as I pop a few in my mouth. (I have to try some to be sure they're ripe, right?)

We start by picking raspberries to use in recipes--some of my favorites are raspberry and rhubarb pie, raspberry muffins, raspberries in mint syrup, and raspberry sauce (perfect on brownies or flourless chocolate cake!). I also freeze berries on a sheet pan, then stow in freezer bags to thaw and use all year long.

Whether you have raspberries or other goodies to pick or harvest, I hope you're enjoying the season as much as I am. Here are a few pics for you.