Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Sausage

Last week I posted grown up grilled cheese sandwiches,  this is my version of grown up tomato soup, and it is WAY better than anything you can buy in a can!  You can make this with or without the sausage, both ways are good!

1/2 c. wondra flour (or regular flour, I just think the wondra flour mixes in better)
1/2 c. butter
4 c. chicken broth (1 large carton)
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 Tbsp basil
1 tsp. oregano
1 c. grated parmesan cheese
2 c. half and half
1 lb. italian sausage

Combine the butter and flour in a large sauce pan over medium heat.  Gradually add the chicken broth letting the mixture thicken as you add more.  In a blender add the two cans of tomatoes (don't drain) and the basil and oregano.  Pulse it just a few times (you don't want the tomatoes totally blended).  Add this tomato mixture to the sauce pan.  Now let it all simmer over medium heat for about 15 min.  Meanwhile shape the italian sausage into small meatballs and thoroughly cook them in a fry pan, then move the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels and pat off excess grease.  Turn the heat on the soup to low.  Whisk in the parmesan cheese and half and half, then add the sausage and let it cook on low for about 5 more min, stirring occasionally.