Irene's Split Pea Soup

Ingredients: One package Green Split Peas, Three quarts water, One ham shank, One large onion, finely chopped, Two chicken bouillon cubes, One half teaspoon garlic powder, One half teaspoon oregano, One half teaspoon pepper, One bay leaf, One and one half cups thinly sliced carrots, One half cup chopped celery.

Preparation: In large deep pot combine peas, water, ham shank, onion, chicken bouillon and seasonings. Simmer for 1-1/2 hours. Remove ham shank, trim meat off bone and return meat to pot. Stir in carrots and celery. Simmer for an additional 2 to 2-1/2 hours or until soup reaches desired thickness.