Creating your White Bean Soup with Bacon is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result:

1. Soak the Beans: Rinse the dried white beans under cold water and soak them in water overnight. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them sit for 1 hour.

2. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the bacon grease in the pot.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.

4. Add Beans and Liquids: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in the broth and water, and stir to combine.

5. Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

7. Finish with Bacon: Remove the bay leaf. Stir the reserved bacon into the soup, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.