Rinse the split peas and ensure no rocks have made it into the bag. Peel and chop the carrot. Chop the celery and onion. Add everything to the crockpot and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours, or until the peas are tender. Stir and discard bay leaf before serving. Consider adding up to 1/2 cup Italian dressing (bottled) during cooking after trying a squirt on top.