Golden Autumn Soup Recipe

5 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped 5 medium carrots, sliced 2 medium onions, chopped 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and chopped 1 medium turnip, peeled and chopped 2 celery ribs, sliced 2 bay leaves 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chicken broth 2 cups half-and-half cream or evaporated skim milk 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1/4 teaspoon pepper