Split Pea Soup

2 cups split peas
2 quarts water
1 large onion, diced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
2 carrots, diced or grated
3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
1 cup diced lean ham
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp dried marjoram
1/4 tsp dried thyme leaves

Place all ingredients in a large pan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer 1-2 hours.

*For creamier texture, blender all cooked ingredients prior to adding the ham.