Afraid of Pressure Canning

I have a huge pressure canner (like the one in the picture) but I'm scared of the darned thing!  So I dehydrate.  I freeze dry.  But every time I walk by that canner, it taunts me. It's an unrealized goal.  A fear that has not been conquered.  And ones in the know, don't have time to teach me.  I hope with more study of this forum and this book, I can succeed.  
Marita Farmer
Courage is fear that has first said it's prayers.

Marita Farmer wrote:I have a huge pressure canner (like the one in the picture) but I'm scared of the darned thing!  So I dehydrate.  I freeze dry.  But every time I walk by that canner, it taunts me. It's an unrealized goal.  A fear that has not been conquered.  And ones in the know, don't have time to teach me.  I hope with more study of this forum and this book, I can succeed.  
Marita Farmer
Courage is fear that has first said it's prayers.

I was terrified the first time I used our pressure canner...ok, the first several times...lol. I paced the kitchen floor, clenched and obsessively read and reread the instructions that came with it. Like you, I didn't have anyone who could teach me. Over time, the fear left. The only way to get over the fear is to just start. Start with canning water if that makes you feel better. This way you can practice the whole process without the extra pressure of possibly ruining good food. I can tell you that there is zero risk if you just follow the directions step by step. I'm rooting for you!!