Perseverance and Soup

I've made a lot of soup recently. Three different soups in seven days to be exact. The husband and I like soup, especially in cold winter, but I've started to wonder if there was more to it than that.

Last week I was sick - not the flue - just the "crud" as we like to call it. I've also noticed that I'm running a little high emotionally. That might be an understatement, now that I think about it, seeing as how I've cried everyday this week. The tears are brought on by a sweet email, an article I read, a difficult time in a friends life, and at this stage of my life I'm sure my hormones are playing a role as well. If I'm honest, then I also have to admit that it's November, and for numerous years now, the time leading up to the holidays can be very draining for me. So the question has to be asked, is there a connection with my need to be comforted and the food I'm making. I think the answer surprised even me, for I've used the term 'comfort food', but I did not realize how deep-seeded that desire truly is for one's soul. Without a doubt, I think of soup as the go-to-food for the "crud", and Sprite and saltines for the stomach bug. I was creating dishes that fed my soul - my heart.

I was then reminded, that we are all wading through trials within our separate lives. We live in a fallen world, and it sucks sometimes. Depending on the day, it seems like it's more than just sometimes. Some of you might would say that it sucks 90% of the time, and that's not just you being a pessimist. You get the picture.

Someone shared this with me, and I've shared it with a few, but I thought it should be posted. We all struggle with losing hope, but by God's grace we can persevere - and pray for each other along the way.

"Although it is true that faith brings peace, it does not always bring it instantaneously. There may be certain reasons that faith has to be tested rather than rewarded... do not give up seeking or trusting your master because you have not yet obtained the conscious joy that you long for. Cast yourself on Him, and perseveringly depend - even when you cannot rejoicingly hope." Charles Spurgeon

Leek and Potato Soup

2-3 Tbs of butter
3-4 leeks, white and light green parts only
2-3 potatoes, about 2 lbs., chopped (peeled or not, I've done both)
4-5 C vegetable broth or water
salt & pepper to taste

Slice the leeks and rinse. You can use a salad spinner, or just a bowl of water. The dirt should fall to the bottom of the bowl of water. Saute the leeks and potatoes in the butter, covered, over med-low heat. Stir occasionally - this takes about 15 minutes. Add the broth or water and simmer for about 15 more minutes. Till potatoes are tender. Puree it in a blender. If you want it a little creamier, you can always add a Tbs of cream.