A Day Like This

There are some fall days that are just amazingly beautiful - clear blue sky, cool refreshing breeze, colorful leaves adorning the trees everywhere - days like this:

Unfortunately, today isn't one of those days. Today is a day like this:

Cold, damp, dreary, rainy...and our furnace is on the blink. SO -I made myself a big pot of my favorite soup* and tucked in to a hearty bowlful.

Now, I'm all set to curl up in my favorite chair, wrap up in a warm, cuddly blanket, and indulge myself in some of my favorite things to do on a day like this ~

Of course, it probably won't be long before I join these two ~

And, actually, that's a pretty good way to spend a day like this!

*Paradise Steak Soup (courtesy of the Paradise Grill in Branson, MO)

Brown 1 pound lean ground beef (or turkey) in a Dutch oven over medium high heat.

Add 2 cups diced onions, 1 cup each diced carrots and celery, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic; cook 10 to 12 minutes until vegetables are softened;

Add 3 cans (13-14 oz. each) chicken broth, 1 can (16 oz) crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon red pepper sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes;

Meanwhile, melt 1/4 cup of butter or margarine in a small saucepan; stir in 1/2 cup flour. Cook over medium high heat, stirring until deep brown. Whisk into soup. Cover and simmer 15 minutes more.

Makes 11 cups.

Serve with hot crusty bread and a crisp salad for a tasty meal that warms both tummy and heart!