Amish Bean Soup

Ingredients

 * 1 pound Navy Beans
 * 3 quarts water
 * 1 teaspoon Salt
 * 1 pinch Baking Soda
 * 1/2 cup shredded Carrot
 * 1 cup chopped Celery
 * 2 medium onions, Chopped
 * 2 Bay Leaves
 * 1 1/2 pound Ham Meat
 * 1 cup mashed boiled Potato
 * 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
 * 1/2 teaspoon dried Thyme, optional
 * 2 tablespoons Sauce
 * 1/4 cup chopped fresh Parsley

Directions

 * Combine the beans, water, salt and Baking Soda.
 * Bring to a boil, cover, and Simmer for 5 minutes.
 * Remove from the heat, Skim Off Foam, re-cover, and let stand for 2 hour.
 * Add the remaining ingredients except the Parsley and simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
 * Remove the Ham Bone.
 * Add the Parsley just before serving.