Broccoli Cheese Soup

1 large bunch of broccoli - separated into florets
3 stalks of celery, chopped
1 chopped onion
4 T butter
4 cloves garlic, minced or put through a garlic press
1/2 cup all purpose flour
3 1/2 cups chicken stock
3 cups half & half
2 cups shredded sharp cheese
salt & pepper

Steam the broccoli and set aside. Melt the butter in a dutch oven and saute the onion and chopped celery until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add in fhe flour and cook for 2 minutes. Add in a little more butter if too dry. Slowly add in the broth and half & half. Add in steamed broccoli. Cover and simmer stirring often for about 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Add salt & pepper to taste.