Yay for tomatoes!!

I have several tomatoes growing on my large tomato plant. Here's my first picked tomato.

I probably would have left it; however, the vine attached to it was breaking so I thought I might as well pick it. I'm new to this whole "garden" experience. So, I'm not real sure when I should pick them off the vine. Do I wait until they are somewhat ripe? Do I pick them while they're still firm and green? Any green thumbs out there, please give me your opinion. Also, my jalapenos have yet to grow produce. Should they by now? They honestly look healthier than my tomato plants. Perhaps that's a good sign.

Anyway, storms are on their way. My child is napping. My dogs are whining at the backdoor. These next few days will be e x t r a   l o n g. My dogs are awful during bad weather. :(