SPLIT PEA SOUP

4 slices bacon (chopped)
2 onions (chopped)
2 carrots (chopped)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
1 lb. green split peas, soaked overnight
3 cans chicken broth, double strength
3 cans water
1 bay leaf
4 frankfurters, sliced
salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS: In a sauce pan cook bacon until it starts to brown, add onions, carrots and celery, and sautŽ until vegetables are lightly brown. Add the split peas, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Bring to boil and simmer on low heat one hour. Add frankfurters, season with salt and pepper to taste and continue simmering for ten minutes.