To some a pineapple is just a pineapple. Yet for me, it’s a sign of transformation. One of growth, consistency, and hope. So today, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from pineapples, canned and fresh. I hope this sweetens and simplifies whatever season you’re currently walking through.
Does the thought of peeling, cutting, coring pineapples overwhelm you?
If so, you’re in good company.
Ever since early on, I never felt like I knew how to approach them. Or really any large, whole fruit in general. I’d wonder:
- How do I choose a ripe one?
- How do I core it without peeling it?
- How do I core it with a knife?
or, how much mess will this make?
And since you know that I never want to over commit myself in the kitchen, I’d just pass it by.
Enter motherhood with two small kids and I didn’t even entertain the idea.
I found the easier solution and…
Bought the canned pineapple.
And not only was less stress, but it was also:
- quicker
- cheaper
- shelf-stable
…All my favorite things!
And I had fun incorporating it into some great recipes (like my Canned Pineapple Salsa)
A Sweet Transformation
Flash-forward to this summer– 2023 — and I find myself not only buying the whole pineapple but I’m also in the kitchen filled with glee as the kids and I cut, core and chunk this beautiful, fresh pineapple.
What changed?
Well, for one, I have a really cool tool.
My mom gifted me to this ultra simple and intriguing pineapple corer. She used it while visiting my aunt and knew that I needed it (thanks, mom!).
Now, one could argue this tool could have helped me years ago.
Yes, perhaps that’s true.
However, I also was in a season with littles that I just didn’t want a bunch of small gadgets. And I didn’t always have two free hands.
It still felt overwhelming, and I was at my limit. Especially in the kitchen.
The other reason for this transformation is from within.
I’ve realized this summer that something is changing.
Maybe I’m just a mom coming up for air. No longer just trying to survive daily tasks. Maybe I’m starting to thrive. (Now thriving wouldn’t mean cooking from scratch and turning into a gourmet chef here. I’m still who I am– simplicity is my middle name)
Or perhaps tides are shifting and I’m making more space.
More space in the moments.
Physically.
Mentally.
Emotionally. And…
spiritually.
Things that once were overwhelming, like this silly pineapple, are now invitations.
Inviting me to a transformation.
I’m not just returning to who I was before kids. I’m transforming into something new.
That sounds a bit deep considering we’re talking about a pineapple, right?
But it’s true. I never had desire to buy a whole, fresh pineapple before kids, and certainly not in the midst of it.
Yet, here I am. Mirroring my children’s excitement as they examined, tasted and sampled the juice. Unaware of anything else in that moment.
Truth and Hope in Your Season
So here’s my take-home message from you, courtesy of a $1.99 pineapple (and the snazziest amazon find):
Keep opening the cans.
The cans, or whatever it is for you in this season.
Whatever you can do right now. Whatever works the best and brings the joy. Keeping doing that.
Not only is that the healthiest space; it’s holding a place.
A place where overwhelm becomes opportunity.
A place of chaos turns into curiosity.
A place where habits present heart change. Now seeking out what felt impossible.
So, keep opening the can, friend.
And one day something else may surprise you.
When asking, “who wants pineapple?” and they ask, “canned or fresh?” you know that you’ve instilled another important lesson.
All foods fit.
Both are gifts and can be used in different ways, perhaps at different times, to honor and nourish our bodies.
So, you know what I’m thankful for this summer?
Fresh Pineapples.
Fresh, whole pineapples to remind me of God’s continual work within me on this sweet, and oh so satisfying journey.
More Encouragement
For more encouragement, you might enjoy:
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