Headband and Tomato-Basil Parmesan Soup in the Crockpot!

So I'm sitting at my allergy appointment knitting up a headband for my friend when my nurse, Chris (who is a loyal enabler, uh I mean customer) asks to see what I'm making.  I show her a picture and sure enough she needs to order four for her two daughters.  The other nurse, Darlene overhears the order being placed, runs in and asks what's going on.  She sees the headbands and orders two for herself.  Then, the patient sitting two seats down from me apologizes but asks to get in on the action....three from her.  Whew!  I sure hope my fingers don't bleed!  Anyway - these are a favorite in that you don't have to wear them as a headband, you can also wear them as a collar.  It's very cute, keeps your neck warm and isn't bulky wearing under a coat.

So onto the next item of business....

 

Tomato Basil Parmesan Soup in the Crockpot

(I found this recipe on Pinterest.  This is a very easy soup to make and

would partner up great with a grilled cheese!)

Makes about 2 quarts (about 8 servings)

2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup finely diced celery
1 cup finely diced carrots
1 cup finely diced onions
1 tsp dried oregano or 1 T fresh oregano
1 T dried basil or 1/4 cup fresh basil
4 cups chicken broth
½ bay leaf
½ cup flour
1 cup Parmesan cheese
½ cup butter
2 cups half and half, warmed (or skim milk)
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

1. Add tomatoes, celery, carrots, chicken broth, onions, oregano, basil, and bay leaf to a large slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on LOW for 5-7 hours, until flavors are blended and vegetables are soft.
3. About 30 minutes before serving prepare a roux. Melt butter over low heat in a skillet and add flour. Stir constantly with a whisk for 5-7 minutes. Slowly stir in 1 cup hot soup. Add another 3 cups and stir until smooth. Add all back into the slow cooker. Stir and add the Parmesan cheese, warmed half and half, salt and pepper. Add additional basil and oregano if needed (I would recommend adding the oregano and basil towards the end of the cooking time as the crockpot tends to 'weaken' the flavors after a while.)
4. Cover and cook on LOW for another 30 minutes or so until ready to serve.