A few folks have asked for the bean recipe I made when in So. Cal. over Christmas, so here is the recipe:

2 cans pinto beans
1 cans Rotel original diced tomatoes and chilies - original
1/2 package bacon (I trim most of the fat before cooking)
1 small onion diced
1 bunch cilantro (remove stems, chop leaves)
1 teaspoon cumin
2 teaspoons garlic (I do less)

Dice bacon and render
When half cooked, add onions and garlic
Drain Grease
Add beans and tomatoes
Heat for 20 minutes
Add cilantro leaves
Heat for additional 15-20 min

it's a very forgiving recipe, you can add more of the things you really like, or make it spicier with hot Rotel, or less so with Mild.  And it's easy to double or more for a big group.

Everyone please pray for Aleene to have her MS in remission.  And that they will find a new medicine that she is not allergic to and will work well.