Friendship Soup

Soup Mix:
2 bay leaves
2 tsp Italian Seasoning
1/2 c long grain rice
1/4 c pearl barley
1/2 c split peas
1/4 c dried onion flakes
1/2 c dry lentils
1/3 c beef bouillon granules
1/2 c alphabet pasta (in bag)

1 lb ground beef
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes- undrained
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
3 quarts water
black pepper to taste
garlic powder to taste

Set pasta aside. Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium hear with pepper and garlic powder, drain. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and soup mix. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover, and simmer for 45 minutes. Stir in pasta, cover and simmer 15-20 minutes, or until pasta, peas, lentils, and barley are tender.