Lentil Stew With Sausage

Name: Lentil Stew With Sausage
Ingredients: 1/3 pound of bacon (about 5 thick slices), cut into 1-inch by 1/4-inch strips; 1 medium-large yellow or white onion, chopped (about 1 1/4 cups); 2-3 large carrots, diced (2/3 cup); 2-3 large ribs celery, diced (2/3 cup); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons); 1 pound brown or green dry lentils, rinsed and picked over to remove anything that shouldn't be there (like a small rock for example); 3 cups water; 3 cups chicken stock* (can sub water for a total of 6 cups of liquid); 1/2 teaspoon dry thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy, your choice) or smoked sausage, in links (about 2-3 links); 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar (can sub cider vinegar); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, with a little extra for garnish