Fresh Tomatoes

My wife's mother died unexpectedly 2 weeks ago. She had a couple tomato plants around her house in town. They are really producing well and since wife and I don't garden we have been picking them and bringing them home to use. Today wife made a batch of chili with some of the tomatoes and some of our fresh ground pork. I'm eating some as I wright this and I don't have to tell you what a difference the fresh tomatoes make verses store bought cans. I don't know why I'm writing this. Maybe because I am sad for my wife's loss and I want to brag her up a little. I just came in from harvesting corn and I haven't had any real food since breakfast so this really hits the spot and it makes me feel good that they are my mother-in-laws tomatoes. No need for anyone to reply, I just had to write this. I'm going to get another bowl of chili. Oh by the way I am the only neighbor around still harvesting corn. I was broke down for 11 days. Three different problems with the 750 Massey. Then with the funeral and spending extra time with my wife..just listening over coffee, I am way behind. But you know what? I'll get done. You just watch this old Belgian honker down. When I have to I can really lean in to it and make the old harness creek.

First, let me say that I'm really sorry to hear of your family's loss.
You are, of course, right on the tomatoes.
Your priorities are also straight as an arrow!
That corn will get done, your wife needs you now.
Best wishes!

Nice words and well put.

Sorry for ur loss, blend the tomatoes in a blender, freeze the purée, than cook them down for sauce this winter!

YES; Welcome to the World of Fresh Tomatoes!!! I canned 12 quarts of Juice, & 12 of whole tomatoes for vegetable soup this winter. Wanted to can more; but the weather... The rest justed rotted green! 20 plants should have given at least 3 times that easily.

So sorry for your loss, but you have hit upon an annual tradition of mine. When the tomatoes are at their peak, I pick a bunch, cut them up, cook them down for a couple of hours, and make chili. As you said, the difference from canned tomatoes is striking. Its fun to watch someone take the first bite- the look on their face is almost one of shock, because they're not expecting the fresh taste. Freeze the excess.

We have an electric range, and I used to have trouble with stuff getting burned on the bottom when simmered for a long time, even at the lowest heat. The solution is 4 pieces of baling wire, cut to length (2 longer in the center, 2 shorter on the edges) and placed on the burner. That tiny bit of space will prevent scorching.

sorry for your familys loss,so glad you typed that story,it was very well written. Next year plant a few plants in memory of your mil,

Flying Belgian,
Sorry to hear about your Mother-in-law. Yes, fresh garden tomatoes are the best! I drove past you the other day. I seen the big ol' McCormick out plowing. I was wondering how you are doing. I drive home out to the North on County Road 13. Less idiots on the raod there. 14 makes me furious some days. Hope all goes well for you for the rest of harvest. Take care.
Kow Farmer (Kurt)