One of the greatest joys of my role at GreenPrints is reading the hundreds of submissions we receive each year from gardeners across the country and around the world. Some stories arrive like a rough-cut gemstone, requiring a bit of polishing and reshaping to bring out their true brilliance. But every now and then, I come across a rare find—a story so beautifully crafted that it needs almost no editing at all.

Kelly Lane Riley’s My First Tomato is one of those treasures.

From the moment I read her submission, I knew this piece was something special. Kelly’s storytelling is lyrical, evocative, and deeply personal. It captures the magic of a New England summer, the wonder of nature’s rhythms, and the simple yet profound joy of growing one’s own food. As a singer and songwriter, Kelly has a natural gift for rhythm and prose, and it shines through in this story.

In My First Tomato, Kelly takes us on a journey of discovery, nostalgia, and newfound appreciation for gardening. She paints a picture of summer that many of us long for—windows open to the salty sea air, long bike rides, the rhythmic lull of the ocean, and the golden light of a setting sun. But more than that, she brings us into the deeply personal experience of tending to her very first tomato plant. We feel her anticipation as she watches it grow, her nervousness as she learns the delicate balance of care, and her ultimate delight when she finally holds that perfectly ripened fruit in her hands.

She recalls childhood summers spent sailing along the Connecticut River, slicing thick, juicy tomatoes for simple yet exquisite sandwiches. She reflects on her family’s gardening legacy, from her grandmother’s bountiful harvests to her sister’s lush greenery. And, in a touching moment, she shares how her tomato plant and other newfound greenery have become companions in her life, bringing comfort and connection after the loss of a beloved pet.

This is not just a story about growing a tomato—it is about growth in all forms. It is about finding joy in the small things, reclaiming a piece of childhood wonder, and understanding that tending to a plant is much like tending to oneself. It requires patience, attention, and a willingness to embrace the process.

I invite you to experience the full beauty of My First Tomato in the July 2024 issue of GreenPrints. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or someone who has never so much as planted a seed, I guarantee that Kelly’s words will resonate with you. Her story reminds us why we garden—not just for the harvest, but for the joy, the memories, and the deep connection to the world around us.

Don’t miss this stunning piece. Click over to the July 2024 issue and immerse yourself in a story that celebrates summer, gardening, and the simple pleasure of growing something with love.

I’d love to know what this story stirred up in you, leave a comment below.