Split Pea Soup

4 cups water

1 small onion, diced

1½ cups dry split peas, rinsed

1 cup chopped ham (optional)

3 bay leaves

1 tsp. salt

½ tsp. dried rosemary, crushed

¼ tsp. thyme

¼ tsp. pepper

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender. Stir well until peas are smooth. Discard bay leaves. Yield: 4 servings.