It is interesting how much I appreciate homemade soup now that I am in my early 60's. Usually, I would rather have a bowl of this than a burger and fries. I guess it is natural that your appetite wanes when you no longer have to work like a dog to survive.
Nothing better than home made soup, especially with croutons!! The weather here in Oregon will soon be too warm for soups and stews, but that suits me fine.