Winter Day Bean Soup Recipe

2 cups mixed dried beans*
2 quarts water
2 tablespoons salt
2 cups diced ham OR sliced smoked sausage
1 large onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 can (28 oz.) tomatoes, chopped
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice

*(Use at least seven varieties of beans---great northern, navy, black, garbanzo, green split peas, pinto and red beans.) Rinse beans; place in large kettle. Cover with water, add salt and soak overnight. Drain; add 2 quarts water and ham/sausage. Simmer for 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, tomatoes and lemon juice. simmer 45 minutes more. Add salt and pepper, if desired. Yield: 2 quarts.