Attack of the Heirloom Tomatoes

Tomato gardening goes something like this:

Nothing.
Is this thing growing?
Nothing (repeat for several months)
Tomato. Tomato.
Tomato tomato tomato!
TomatotomatotomatatomatoTOMATOMATOMATOMATOMATOMATO!!!!

Notice how the repetition eventually makes the word’s meaning slippery? You have to step back from the fray, breathe, and remind yourself what it means.

These critters can come in a flood that makes zucchini look lazy, and for the past month and a half “can more tomatoes” has been constantly floating around on my todo list. I just saw the photos below and remembered to be grateful for all the stews and sauces that will start with a jar of our own tomatoes this winter.

Here are some “Willamettes”:

…and here are the striking “Purple Calabash”: