John's Green Tomato Pickles

4 lb. green tomatoes (sliced thin)
1 c. slaked lime
1 gallon water
2 qts. white vinegar
1 Tbsp. salt
4 1/2 lb. sugar
1 pkg pickling spice

Soak tomatoes in lime/water solution 24 hours.  Drain.  Rinse well.  Cover with clear water for three hours.

Boil vinegar, salt, sugar and spices until sugar dissolves.  Cool.  Drain tomatoes and add to syrup.  Let stand overnight.  Drain tomatoes.  Heat and boil syrup, adding tomatoes.  Cook 35 minutes.  Put in sterilized jars.