In a large slow cooker, combine the first 9 ingredients. Cover and cook on high for 7-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
Add milk and parsley; mix well. Cover and cook 30-60 minutes longer or until heated through.
Garnish with chives if desired.
YIELD: 8-10 servings (about 3 quarts)
This turned out really good. I did make a few adjustments though --
Instead of 1/2 cup chopped celery, I put in a can of cream of celery soup ... and instead of 4 tsp. chicken bouillon granules, I used a can of chicken broth (I don't suggest using the whole can! LOL) ... and instead of 3 TB. chopped fresh parsley, I used a pinch of dried parsley.