Welcome, tourists, shoppers, and friends alike, to the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais! Today, the beans start their morning by taking in a little shopping, where they stop to check out the wares in front of Palacio da Feijoada (translation: Feijoada Palace), a meat and black bean shop inside the Mercado Central, Belo Horizonte.

The beans were really tempted to make an offer on some of those mystery meats behind Scott, but then they remembered that they were vegetarian beans...

Next, the beans stop for a visit out front of the church of San Francisco (Igreja de Sao Francisco) in Ouro Preto ("Black Gold").

The church itself is the architectural masterwork of famed Brazilian artist Alejadinho. Scott writes: "Aleijadinho was born Antônio Francisco Lisboa on the 29th of August 1730. Because he later developed a severe disbility - although he continued as an architect, painter and sculptor - he became known as "Aleijadinho" (a reference to his disability).

The beans thought the church was beautiful, and admired Aleijadinho's artistic skills. It's unfortunate that he never designed tin cans, ain't it? Imagine what the beans would look like decked out in new metal duds...

Here, the beans get a chance to hang out with a statue of Biblical prophet Daniel, of "Daniel in the lion's den" fame (hence, the lion carved into the base) at Basilica do Nosso Senhor Bom Jesus. This is another sculpture by Aleijadinho.

Scott says, "The personal tie-in is that once, 30 years ago as a college student, I visited one of his churches. As I recall it was the one in Congonhas. Upon reaching the front stairs in my wheelchair I started to ask the women who were in front begging which was the best way for me to enter. Before I said a word they all grabbed up their money, put it in my lap and hurried away, steadfastly ignoring my protests that they come back for their money.

About two years ago when I made the decision to go back to Brazil this past July, I began to put aside my own spare change to return the favor. There were no beggars the day I returned for my private pilgrimage but I left the gift with the pastor, Fr. Rocha Benedito, who knew of my experience through a mutual friend. My trip to Brazil wasn't complete until that day when I paid that debt of generosity."

See? Now, the next time you think good deeds go unrewarded, remember this. And don't forget to think about those who could use your help. The beans will appreciate it.

Finally, the beans drop by in front of small Brazilian Baroque-era church (Nossa Senhora do O) in Sabara, which has an exquisite gold leaf interior.

The beans had a wonderful time in Brazil, and can't thank Scott and Jeff enough for taking them along for the ride. Now, you'll have to excuse the frijoles - they're on their way to the beach...