I cleaned out a shelf in my pantry the other day and nearly gave myself a heart attack. I found a big can of pumpkin nearing its expiration date.

That wouldn’t do. Not even a little.

Thankfully, it’s nearly baking season here in Phoenix. I know what some of you are thinking—why would there be a baking season?

The reason is simple—it’s wicked hot outside. I mean when the morning lows are in the high 80s and low 90s, the last thing most folks want to do it work up a sweat opening the oven door. Heck, we can do that just by opening up the front door and stepping outside.

Which means the season for baking is when the highs may be in the low 100s but the lows are high 70s. Translation sometime October or, if we’re lucky, late September.

So unless, I start cooking with a solar cooker, I’m going to be pushing that expiration date and praying that pumpkin can doesn’t swell.

Until next time, stay healthy.