I may start small and try and make some pickles, but that would be a bit unfair to Brian since he really hates the things.

but it would be VERY fair to me since I ADORE pickles *grins* If you wanted to try some I'd be more than happy to come by and taste test. There's nothing like homemade pickles, the store ones are nice but not totally the same.

Plus it might give you some ideas for giftings, a basket of hommade fridge staples is a pretty neat idea, especially with Xmas coming up.