I've always been somewhat of a loner, but over the past few years I don't think I've had many adventures on my own. 
Today I went on a nature hike alone as the Prince and Princess were both a little tired of the brambles and bugs we usually experience on these walks.

I went in search of a few more blackberries to add to my stash from yesterday.  Later this afternoon I made jam and canned 6 half-pints... and it actually turned out, unlike last year when I really screwed it up.

I was also in search of some butterfly weed I wanted to dig up to transplant; Mr. B had found the last time he was with us.

I was surprised at how much I usually miss during these walks..... I never noticed the mullein before, or the trumpet flowers...  even a couple of dew-y spider webs.....

Well when all was done I came home and got to work..... I made the jam... and did I already mention that it turned out really good!  I also canned a couple of pints of hot peppers, made bread,  muffins and some soup....

This is one of our most favorite soups, from my vegan days....  long before the time where I was hitting up strangers for deer meat or trying to figure out if I could get rabbits past the HOA (home owners association)...

It is basically a variation of Catalina Soup from The New Laurel's Kitchen.  I've been making it for almost 15 years and we still love it, even with the non-vegan ingredients....

I was able to use mostly ingredients from our garden right now, but I did have to fudge it a bit....

Kimi's Catalina Soup....

1 onion chopped

1 garlic clove, chopped (I used a clove of elephant garlic that a wonderful lady sent me)

Olive oil or butter

a bunch of chopped tomatoes

1 can of tomato sauce (regular sized can)

2-4 large potatoes, chopped into cubes

2-4 cups of water

oregano, salt and pepper

4 oz monterey jack cheese, chopped into cubes or shredded. 

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Saute the onion and garlic in the oil/butter until translucent.

Add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water.  Bring to a boil, and add the potatoes.

Cook until potatoes are as soft as you want.  Add seasonings and cheese.  Stir until cheese melts for about 5 minutes.

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You may use canned diced tomatoes instead of the tomato sauce and fresh ones.  I have used vegan cheese for the jack also.... SoyaKrass (?) melts well, but that was back in the days when soy was supposed to be good for you....