3 c. water
6 med. potatoes, pared and diced
1 c. carrots, pared and sliced
1 c. celery, sliced
1/2 c. onions, diced
2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. flour
1 qt. milk
1 lb. (4 c.) grated, sharp Cheddar cheese
2 c. ham, cooked and cubed (optional)

Bring the water to boiling. Add vegetables, salt and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender but not over done.

In another pan, melt butter. Add flour and blend until smooth. Stir in milk and Cheddar cheese. After cheese is melted and blended add vegetable mixture and ham, if desired. Heat to serving temperature.