Split Pea with Ham Soup

6 cups of water, vegetable or chicken broth

2 cups dried yellow split peas

4 carrots, cut into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces

4 celery stalks, cut into 1/2 to 1 inch pieces

1 large onion, cut up

1/4 cup pot barley

seasoning to taste -- Mrs. Dash Garlic and Herb seasoning works very well -- about a half to one teaspoon --

salt

pepper

ham, diced - about 3 cups

Add peas to the liquid in a large pot.

Bring to a boil, and cook at a medium boil for about 45 minutes.

Then, turn down the heat, so that the peas cook on a gentle simmer, for another 30 minutes.

Add carrots, celery, onion, pot barley, and seasonings.

Add more liquid, or water, at this time, if it's needed.

Cook on a gentle boil for an hour.

Add the diced ham, and heat for about a half hour, until all is heated through.

Serve with fresh homemade bread or buns.