For Lenie: Split Pea Soup

This is "souper" easy and super cheap! Really is yummo too!

1 pkg (about 2 1/2 c. or 1 lb.), dried split peas

9 c. chicken broth

4 carrots, coarsely chopped

3 medium potatoes, diced small

3 celery stalks, chopped

1 onion, finely chopped

diced ham (about 2 c. or so)

1 tsp. minced garlic

1 tsp. Kosher Salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1 bay leaf

Combine all ingredients in Crock Pot and cook on low for about 7-8 hours (or on high for about 4-5 hours). Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve with sliced french bread.