Wash peas 4 or 5 times until water gets clear.

1 lb. split peas
1 qt. of water

Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Let stand 1 hour.

2 c. chopped celery
1/2 c. onions
1 1/2 c. chopped carrots
2 bay leaves
1/4 tsp. thyme leaves
1 ham bone or season with bacon
Salt & pepper to taste

Bring to a boil then cook on low heat until peas are soft and mushy. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. (Put lean meat from ham hock in the soup.)