Ham & Split Pea Soup

2 pkgs dried green split peas
1 ham bone and 2 cups ham chopped
16 cups water
1-2 small onions chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled and cut up
4 carrots, chopped in small pieces
1 stalk celery, chopped in small pieces
salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
3 tsp cumin

Combine all the ingredients in a large pot. Boil until peas are soft, stir often to avoid burning at the bottom of the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for a few hours, stirring occasionally. Remove ham bone and bay leaf before serving. Freezes really well.