Calico Bean Soup

"This one is in Dad's handwriting."--Ronnie

2 cups calico bean mix*
2 quarts water, plus water for soaking
1 pound ham, diced
1 large onion, chopped
1 cloved garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (16-ounce) can tomatoes, undrained and chopped
1 (10-ounce) can totatoes and green chilies, undrained

Sort and wast beans. Place in Dutch oven. Cover with water to 2 inches above beans; soak overnight. Drain beans. Add 2 quarts water, ham, onion, garlic, and salt. Cover and bring to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer 1-1/2 hours or until beans are tender. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serves 8.

* Beans in mix: pearl barley, black turtles, small reds, pintos, navies, great Northerns, green split peas, yellow split peas, and black eyes.