July Babies

Global warming- my behind! You will have to excuse my irreverent behavior. I am at my wits ends with mother nature. Summer is most closely identified with hot days filled with dreams of quenching lemonade or something a little stronger. The Summer of 2009 has had none of that. Frankly I sit in an office for the majority of the day and rarely get to enjoy the nostalgic benefits of summer. However, what really screams summer is tomato season. Even with my not so green thumb, I know these babies require sunlight, water and heat. For reasons that escape me and all politics aside, my tomatoes are not growing at the typical pace, and that makes me an unhappy cook!!

My father in his infinite wisdom convinced my husband to plant a variety referred to as July Babies. These plants yield smaller tomatoes and ripen in July. It's early August and finally I get my first taste of fresh tomatoes. At this rate, I will share my favorite tomato recipes during tailgating season. Instead of Brats we'll serve tomato pie, briam and tomato salads . I hope you hang in there with me.