Basic Lentil Soup

This is from my college friend, Kathy. Simple, basic, filling, tasty, and inexpensive.

• 2 c. dried lentils (almost 1 pound)
• 8 c. water
• 3 slices bacon, diced
• 1/2 c. chopped onion
• 1/2 c. chopped celery
• 1/4 c. chopped carrots
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 t. salt
• 1/4 t. pepper
• 1/2 t. dried oregano, crushed
• 2 c. tomatoes, or 1 can (14-16 ounces)
• 2 T. wine vinegar

Rinse lentils and drain. Place in pot and add all ingredients except tomatoes and vinegar. Cover and simmer 1 1/2 hours. Then add vinegar and tomatoes. Cover and simmer 30 minutes more and season to taste.