Ham and Potato Chowder

This is one of my favorite cold weather meals.

Ham chowder
4 large carrots,diced
4 stalks celery,diced
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small onion, diced
5 c. water
2 to 3 cups diced cooked ham
2 TB. butter
Salt and pepper
6 TB. flour
2 1/2 c. milk
Cook celery, carrots, potatoes and onions for 18 to 20 minutes in the 5 cups of water. Add the ham, butter and salt and pepper to taste. Combine the flour and milk, shake till no lumps remain. Stir this into the vegetable mixture, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.