Step #1 Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over med-heat/flame; add in onion & celery; cover, & cook about 5 mins, until softened.
Step #2 Add in garlic & thyme, stirring to bring out their flavors.
Step #3 Transfer mixture to a slow-cooker; add in black-eye peas, chiles, tomatoes, & stock; season to taste with salt & pepper; cover & cook on LOW for 4-6 hrs.
Step #4 About 15 mins before serving, heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over med-heat/flame; cook sausage until browned all over; add sausage to slow cooker (aka crockpot) along with rice; stir this to mix.