I have the cutest flock of sheep, herding themselves in front of my computer. Here is a sneak peak. As soon as I can corral them, I will introduce you to Loopy Stitchkeepers (which include Loopy, sister Louise, and brother Black Bart.) They are as fun as can be and ought to be going up on the website tomorrow. What do you think of their red socks? I’m going to have to keep one on top of my computer, as they just make me smile!

Today’s recipe is another family favorite. There are two ways to make this delicious soup - with fresh vegetables, carefully hand-cut and added to the pot, or with frozen alternatives, dumped in quick and easy. I won’t tell you which method I use. I will say that I started with one method (for years) and have evolved into the other method.

Cheddar Chowder

8 cups of water
1 large bunch of broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces (or a bag of frozen broccoli)
4-5 carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces (or a bag of frozen carrots)
4 potatoes, cubed (or a bag of frozen, cubed hash browns)
2 onions, chopped
2-3 cups of cubed ham
Salt and Pepper to taste

Boil water and add all of the above. Cook until tender, but not mushy. (Note that the carrots and potatoes take longer to cook. I usually wait until the end to add the broccoli.)

In a separate pan, combine:

3 cups milk
1 stick of butter or margarine
4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar

Stir until the cheese is melted. Whisk in 1/3 cup flour to help thicken the sauce.

Add cheese sauce to vegetable pot (don’t drain water out of vegetables) and stir well, being careful not to let the soup come to a boil

Enjoy with salad and rolls!

I’m still enjoying reading about all of your favorite knitting spots! The drawing is Monday, so if you have not left your comment, scroll back to Monday’s post and get in on the action. I will say that reading them has made me wish for these things, while I am knitting:

1. That I had a mountainous view out my windows (not under my control)
2. That I didn’t have a dog that snores like a freight train at my feet (not under my control)
3. That I had a cup of Starbucks Peppermint Mocha on the table next to me (completely under my control)

Sheri havingabusyweekendbutlookingforwardtoyarntherapyinthemiddleofitall