Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

bag green split peas, rinsed well and drained

carrots (peeled and chopped small)

ribs celery (chopped small)

finely chopped white or yellow onion

minced garlic

chopped fresh Italian (flat leaf parsley)

chopped fresh thyme

bay leaf

salt (plus additional as needed)

Fresh ground pepper (to taste)

meaty ham bone

low-sodium chicken broth (or more, as needed, divided)