this was a request made by my sweet neighbor Terrie whose husband loves potato soup.  i got this one years ago when i lived in Texas.  i used to be in a bunco group and this was a favorite that one of my friends served.  be forewarned, like a lot of my recipes, though it may be all natural and taste amazing, it is far from being low fat.  enjoy!

BAKED POTATO SOUP

4 medium baked potatoes with skins (i usually bake them in the morning while making breakfast so i don't forget)
6 slices lean bacon
3 green onions finely diced
1/2 cup celery finely chopped
1 can chicken broth
1 can water
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried parsley
instant mashed potatoes (yes, i have found all natural instant potatoes)
1 pint half & half

dice baked & cooled potatoes.  cut bacon into 1/2" bits and saute in a large pot.  remove bacon leaving drippings.  in same pot, saute the celery & onions.  add broth, water, salt, pepper and parsley.  bring to a simmer.  stir in potatoes.  simmer for 5 - 10 minutes.  add potato flakes a little at a time until fairly thick.  when it is the consistency you like, add cream slowly and stir.  allow to heat, but NOT boil.  serve with the bacon bits, shredded cheddar and sour cream.

i am so excited about offering these beautiful new ornaments by Kotori.   add them on to your next holiday session.

where in the world did this saying come from?  i have no idea, but these are the best ribs i have ever made.  i caught the end of Down Home with the Neelys a few weeks back where they were making these Kansas City style pork ribs.  they are the best combination of sweet and spicy with both a rub and a sauce.  (I'm from Texas and you have to have sauce with your bar-b-que.)  I'm just posting the link because it is a lot to write:  http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/neelys/kansas-city-style-pork-ribs-recipe/index.html

another night, we grilled some keibasa sausage, sliced it up, tossed it with some of the left over bar-b-que sauce and put it on buns - fabulous!