We are having one of those days that I love. It rained over night, which meant no need to water. Throughout the day, clouds gather, a gentle rain falls, the sun comes out...rinse, repeat - over and over again. While the humidity is high, the temperatures are moderate, so lots can get done.

Today was pruning and tying day, and also offered a chance to take stock on progress. The news is largely very good, but as with all gardens and all seasons, there is a spark of sadness here and there. I wonder how many of you find gardening to be as emotional as I do?

As of early afternoon, all plants are appropriately tied to their supporting stakes. All damaged foliage has been removed. All plants have been assessed and graded, and the information now resides in my seasonal Excel spreadsheet that represents my garden log. The first ripe tomato awaits consumption on our kitchen counter; it is an early set fruit on one of our dwarf cherry tomato candidates in the Teensy line.

We are off later this week to Burlington, Vermont, for my speaking appearances at the Mother Earth News Fair, taking on a few days vacation on either end (it is so, so hard to leave the garden at this time of year, but it will be in the capable hands of neighbors for watering).

Mocha says "hello" - she spends most days with me while I work in my driveway garden...and will be celebrating her 13th birthday soon!