Boil ingredients until tender. Then I like to puree all the ingredients in a blender. Alternatively, you can puree some of the mixture and leave the rest chunky. Me, I like the smooth version best. Ladle into individual soup bowls. (Why did I include this on my index cards? Did I think I might eat the soup out of the large pot? Sheesh.) Add salt and pepper, to taste. Add extra-sharp cheddar cheese (I love cheese, so I use a lot, but it's your choice).