Winter is here!

Hello all! Happy New Year! I hope you all have had a wonderful holiday season! I know I did. Christmas was pretty laid back even with 12 adults and 3 children, 2 of which were toddlers, running around. We aren't the typical "holiday meal" type of family when it comes to Christmas dinner. Generally a meal theme is decided upon and the family members all bring something to compliment the main dish decision. The first year we hosted we decided on lasagna. We had 6 different kinds of lasagna. Each family brought at least one pan of a particular variety. I made artichoke chicken,found here my cousin made a veggie lasagna with the main ingredient being eggplant, my aunt made mexican, and my grandmother made two pans of regular with meat sauce. This year we opted for cold cuts and had the family bring chips, salsa and such. We simply put all the food out and then noshed when we felt like it after presents had been opened. It made for a fairly relaxed time since no one was stressing over making sure food was cooked, reheated, or mixed. 

We've had a record breaking warm winter so far. Today however it is what I would truly consider "cold". It's down near 35 and last night it was snowing. I try to conserve heat since I use heating oil and that can get expensive as I have to fill my tank with at least 150 gallons at a time. I am fairly warm blooded though and can keep my thermostat set fairly low. It is currently set for 68 but that was just changed today previously it had been at 65. Since it's winter I like to make warm meals. One of my favorites is what Mom called Cheese Soup. I think it should be called Ham and Cheese Soup but whatever you want to call it it's super yummy! I've decided to share this great filling soup so you all can enjoy it as well. It is relatively easy to make and is a meal in itself. Remove the ham and it's vegetarian friendly as well. 

This makes a single batch. We usually double it for a family of four but this makes enough for two people for at least two meals.

3c diced potatoes

1/2 c diced celery

1/2 c diced carrots

1/4 c diced onions

1/2 cup diced ham (I use a ham steak most times)

1 c milk

8 oz velveeta

Cover vegetables with water and cook until tender, Don't drain the water,

Add milk and stir in velveeta and ham 

And that's it.I usually add more cheese as well. When I double it I put a whole 32 oz of cheese in it. I also tend to add more ham to it as well. 

I hope you enjoy it! That's it for now! Until next time!