Split Pea Soup

My dad's recipe for split pea soup; a perfect thing on a cold winter day.

Ingredients:
1 lb bag of split green peas, rinsed and checked for rocks
8 C chicken stock, preferably homemade
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2-3 stalks celery, chopped
4 parsley sprigs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1/2 t dried thyme
1/4 t pepper
1 smoked ham hock
1 ham steak, cubed (optional)
Salt to taste

Instructions:
In a large pot combine peas and chicken stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes.
Add the rest of the ingredients save the ham steak, and simmer, covered, until everything breaks up - about an hour and a half.  Cook down for thicker soup, or thin it out with water or stock if desired.  I prefer it quite thick.
Remove the ham hock, add the ham (if using), and cook for a few minutes more, seasoning to taste.
Serve with Tabasco on the side.