Great thread, OP.

This if my first year of canning. I can't believe how easy it is!

To those concerned with spoilage, here's my advice (and I researched the heck out of this before I ever attempted it): the key to success is make sure everything is sanitary. Don't re-use lids, although it is okay to re-use bands. Sterilize everything in the hot water bath, including lids and bands. Never touch the part of the band that seals with the jar and always wipe the rim of jars after filling. So far, this has worked for me.

Now to get back to those dill pickles I've been working on this morning!