tomato babies

In October I gave my dad a punnet of tomato seedlings. Hes been taking great care of them and they have become lush healthy bushes

 He'd been talking about growing some for a few years but never got around to it but now they're in he loves tending to them and is doing a great job.
We call them his tomato babies.
In the evening when he comes in from locking up their two little chooks he talks of fluffing their pillows and tucking them in. Its a bit of a joke we have but realy its about his fabulous attention and enthusiasm to detail he has. He takes great care of things, animals and now tomato plants

Each wilted leaf is noticed and shade gets put up for them on hot days. I love to hear his enthusiasm and the enjoyment he gets from taking care of them and seeing them grow. Its at a perfect time for me because my garden enthusiasm is a bit lacking while i'm pre ocupied with other thoughts but he reminds me what it is I love about gardening. The amazement of big plants coming from tiny seeds, growing almost before your eyes in the hot summer sun. The excitement of watching tomatoes get bigger and knowing they'll be on your plate before you know it.

Just plain enjoyment of being outdoors with a purpose instead of inside. 

 The first tomatoes are getting to a good size and hes dreaming of delicious sauce

There are even some capsicums too. Its going to be a delicious summer!