Amazing split pea soup

1 lb split peas
1/2 cup barley
8 cups chicken broth (I use bullion and water)
1/2 t dried sage
1/2 T dried thyme
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 T salt (I use 2)

Combine, bring to a boil, turn down heat so it is gently boiling. Cook for an hour. Then add:
(these ingredients can be more or less depending upon preference)

1 onion chopped
4 carrots diced
8 plum (roma) tomatoes diced (can substitute a couple cans of diced tomatoes)
4 stalks celery, chopped

Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until vegetables are cooked as desired.

Jeanne Call