Green Tomato Relish

There’s a morning chill and change in the air. The last summer days are falling quickly away. Is it me or does each season have its own smell? I can smell autumn coming. Apparently, so can the tomatoes. The plants have definitely seen better days, curled dried leaves and no more blossoms, but holding on to the green fruit that is desperately trying to ripen before the first frost. What to do, what to do? How about green tomato relish, also sometimes called Chow Chow? 
In my research, I discovered that Chow Chow comes in many forms. Sort of like garam masala, mole, Sunday gravy, or chili, specific to each family and that family’s traditions, often dependent on the last bounties of the garden. Flavors and smells that spike memories of other times. I’ve read that the olfactory nerve connects directly to the brain and aromas often evoke strong emotions.
I added cardamom, cinnamon, and lemon peel to mine along with the usual suspects…green tomatoes, red and green peppers, jalapeño, onion, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, celery seed and yellow mustard seed.
Drifting away on strong emotions.

Domesticity

I think domesticity becomes me. Regular sourdough loaves and a lemon macadamia nut braid, baked in a loaf pan. Meatloaf and baked potatoes in the oven. A walk around the neighborhood and garden. Wonderful Sunday afternoon.

Is Spring finally here?

Is spring springing? Daffodils blooming, chicken coop delivered. I'll know for sure when the chickens arrive!