1 lb. great northern beans, washed
2 1/2 qts. cold water, divided
2 slices uncooked bacon, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1/2 med. green pepper, chopped
1/2 lb. sliced smoked sausage (optional)
1 med. onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (16 oz.) can stewed tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1/2 can cream of chicken soup
Salt and pepper to taste

Soak beans overnight in 2 quarts water. Add remaining water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1 hour. Add all remaining ingredients and simmer about 2 hours at lowest heat. Remove bay leaf and taste for seasoning.