I stand outside. Beneath me, a blanket of snow covers the ground. Snowflakes swiftly fall from the sky landing on each individual eyelash; with each inhale my lungs fill with a frigid bite. A sense of home overcomes my body. With every breath, a misty fog escapes my mouth, warming my chapped lips. My cheeks have taken the color of a rose, and my nose that of Rudolph’s. A winter wonderland has unfolded right before my eyes, but I know I must be on my way.

Once home, I start a fire. I watch as the orange flames dance and come to life. The crackling of the fire orchestrates a symphony for the flames. I sit close, letting the heat warm my body. My mom appears before me with a bowl in her hands. From it arises an aroma so warming, the cold no longer contains me. She has made her homemade corn chowder soup, a family recipe passed down for generations. As I take my first bite, contentedness and comfort fill my senses. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

Carbohydrates are back in season, baby. Winter is upon us, and with this comes frigid frost, chilled cheeks and frostbitten finger tips. But the cold enhances the season, giving the opportunity for all to cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy a meal which not only warms the heart, but the tongue as well.

There is one meal that will bring warmth and cheer throughout the entire year, and the meal is soup.

Here is a recipe from Mama Baxter herself, which will keep you warm all winter long.

Ingredients
¼ cup butter
¼ cup celery
¼ cup onion
¼ cup flour
3 cups milk
1 chicken bullion cube
3 cups frozen corn
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups cooked and diced potatoes

1 ½ cups of diced ham
1½ cups heavy cream
¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter and add celery and onion. Sauté until tender.
2. Add flour and cook for 30 seconds, stirring.
3. Add milk and chicken bullion cube and bring to a soft boil over medium heat.
4. Add corn, sugar and salt. Return to a boil.
5. Add ham, bacon, and heavy cream, and pepper.
6. Serve warm/hot.