I know I am crazy busy with crafty holiday projects, but my pantry has been calling my name the past few weeks. It really needs some work... and if I am going to enjoy my holiday baking, it needs to be clean and organized soon.
On a recent trip to the store, I bought some new jars - the fun vintage, squarish looking ones with silver lids - for my baking supplies. But, I put them in the basket drawers of my rolling cart/island instead of in the pantry.
My pantry is pretty small. And honestly it has too much stuff in it. I am trying to limit my grocery purchases so I can use up what I have and take stock of what I really need. I also plan on being a bit pickier as I purchase new items - more healthy choices, less processed foods etc.
One shelf I really need to start with in the spice shelf. Have you seen the McCormick spices ad in the magazines that shows some old jars and tins? It tells you how crazy old some of your spices might be. I know mine aren't 10 or 15 years old like the ad illustrates, but I know mine could use a weeding out.
Over the weekend, I stopped into my neighborhood Penzey's Spices. I have to admit, I haven't actually visited before and it has been open for years. What fun. I know, it is a little odd to have a blast in the spice store, but I did. I picked up some small containers of spices I knew I needed and some I wanted to try. I am looking for as many unique ways to spice up chicken and fish... so now I have some new options.
More organizing to come soon (photos too I hope)... but hopefully, I can avoid last nights disaster - dropping an open jar of peppercorns. Seriously peppercorns move far and fast on a linoleum floor and are not so much fun to clean up!
Hello! I bookmarked your blog quite a while ago and I enjoy stopping by from time to time to see what you're up to (anyone who's thinking about what ornaments to make when she's supposed to be sleeping is definitely a kindred spirit). Then when I saw your Penzy's post I knew I had to de-lurk. Yes, I LOVED those McCormick ads about how to figure out that your spices are too old, and I am a huge, huge Penzy's fan. Their stuff is superb, and their magazine, One, is truly wonderful -- I'd heartily recommend picking up a copy next time you're near the store. A happy new year to you--
Posted by: Jennifer | December 30, 2007 at 04:29 PM
I was just at Tarjay today browsing their beautiful new spices. I would love to have something organized. My space is tiny and my collection is a bit of this and that. It is pathetic!
Posted by: africankelli | December 04, 2007 at 03:53 PM
I've been meaning to check that place out for month's now. Glad you found some fun stuff!
Posted by: Dawn | December 04, 2007 at 03:20 PM
Love Penzeys! I didn't realize you were in Wisconsin too?!
Posted by: Amanda | December 04, 2007 at 11:30 AM