Marg and Michele's Bean Soup

1 lb. Great Northern or Navy Beans

12 c./3 quarters of water

Soak overnight, or bring to a rolling boil, cover and soak for at least 1 hour. Rinse. Change the water and add:

Meaty Ham Bone (if meaty, dice meat and include in soup_

1 large onion

Bay Leaf

2+ cloves garlic, minced

Simmer. Note: Gram Marg did not rinse the beans - just used the original bean water. Marilyn adds sweet potatoes.

Add:

1 c. celery, sliced

1 c. carrots, diced

1 c. mashed potatoes

salt and pepper

Cook one hour. Serve.