Cheddar Chowder

4 c. water
4 c. diced potatoes
1 c. diced carrots
1 c. diced celery
1/2 c. chopped onion
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. flour
4 c. milk (not skim)
4 c. grated cheddar cheese
2 c. cooked, diced ham
Combine water, vegetables, salt and pepper, and bring to boil. Cook until vegetables are tender. Do not drain water. In a separate medium saucepan, melt butter and add flour, forming a smooth paste. Slowly add milk. Then add cheese and stir until melted. Add milk and cheese mixture to vegetable mixture and stir until well combined. Add ham and stir until heated through, but do not bring to a boil.