Pic Today 9/8/12

SAVING THE BEST

FOR LAST

As the summer gives way

to shorter days and cooler nights,

and market produce brings a new bounty

of apples, squash and pumpkin . . .

some of the best flavors are saved for last,

especially homegrown heirloom tomatoes.

(Always a sign that summer's soon over.)

These heirlooms -- Cherokee Purple tomatoes --

are prettiest (I think),

although they're called "ugly" and "gnarly."

Their goodness is on the inside,

despite their unusual shapes and bottoms.

Chefs and gardeners know their late season goodness.

Slice some on a warm tomato sandwich,

or roast them on a baking sheet for extra sweetness.

Soon, homegrown tomatoes will be gone.

(Farewell, tasty friends.)