Southern Style Black Eyed Peas

Name: Southern Style Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients: 1 lb dried black-eyed peas (rinsed); 1.5-2 lbs smoked neckbone (or substitute with smoked ham hocks or turkey necks); 1 tbsp neutral oil or butter; 1 onion (chopped); 1 bell pepper (chopped); 2 stalks celery (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 bay leaves; 6-8 cups half water/chicken stock (or all chicken stock for a more flavor); 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp granulated garlic; 1 tsp Herbes de Provence (optional); Salt and pepper (to taste)