James Mattina (Constructor)

Hi all, James here! Thank you to everyone who tackled my puzzle today, shared it with loved ones, and left thoughtful comments. I was actually able to surprise my family with this debut in person (they also struggled a bit with that NW corner!). The response from this community has been so exciting. What an experience. I've been reading every comment... Genuinely touched by the stories of your personal connections to the theme and the fill. A few extra comments: - @Bill : The ETUDE clue was not mine (I prefer the new clue, it's a great tidbit - thanks to Will Shortz and the editing team) - @Alex : PERU was my clue (love a little trivia) and thanks! I think the lack of Americana in the puzzle may 'stem' from my Canadian 'roots!' - @The X-Phile : Beautiful story - @Everyone : I did not conspire with Ian about MIA HAMM in the midi (coincidence!). Glad you like the 'theme-adjacent' TOMATO/SAGE/RYE/MULCH... I also tried sneaking in the Carolina REAPER as my clue but the harvester works, too! Have a great week, everybody! -James