3 c. water
1/2 c. onion, chopped
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 tsp. salt
4 med. potatoes, cubed
1 c. diced carrots
1 c. diced celery

Bring water to a boil; add vegetables and cook them until they are done. Meanwhile, melt 1/2 cup butter and add 1/2 cup flour. Blend and add 4 cups of milk. Cook over low heat until mixture comes to a boil. Boil one minute. Add 2 cups cubed ham and 1 pound sharp Cheddar cheese. Stir until melted. Stir in vegetable mixture. Heat thoroughly. This is better if made one day ahead of time and reheated.