Anderson Pea Soup

8 C of water
2 C green split peas
1 stalk of celery chopped
1 large carrot chopped
1 small onion chopped
1/2 lb farmer sausage
1/4 tsp ground thyme
1 pinch of cayenne
1 bay leaf
salt and pepper to taste

Fill the pot with water, add bay leaf and bring to a boil.  Add split peas and boil hard for 20 minutes, then turn heat down until peas are tender.  It is suggested to strain through a fine sieve and reheat to boiling point. I skip this process.  Add celery, carrots and onion to pot and continue to simmer slowly for one hour.  Add about 1/2 pound farmer sausage.  Add spices.  Add extra boiling water if it becomes too thick.