Austin is a challenging place for Cedar Fever sufferers. Sunday night pollen erupts from our Cedar trees.

The Split pea soup I make requires just a few items and is a wonderful gift to drop off in a Ball jar for friends under the weather.

Begin by cubing a 1/2 onion, 3 carrots. Saute in evoo and toss in one cup of rice till it sizzles.  Set aside.  This is your thickening secret!

Wash the bag of split peas thoroughly and boil for 5 minutes and turn down the heat to a simmer for 45 minutes to an hour.

I had a Smithfield ham bone (thank you Pop!) with meat still on it from Christmas. Toss this in and add the above mixture simmering till all the meat falls off.

I have also used brisket for my split pea soup and it is equally robust for the job.

Dress up this split pea with a sweet aroma.

Add cardamom for a rich satisfying flavor.

Crush the pods by using a dedicated coffee grinder. I use my grinder to make almond flour and just wipe clean with a cloth.

Use 10 pods for the medicinal benefit.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit in 2013!

P.S. Cardamom is a natural expectorant.