Homemade Granola Bars

Ive been trying really hard not to make alot of sweets and keep my snacks more healthy. That's why I decided to make some granola bars.
A while back I attempted this and it was a complete fail. We literally ate it out of a jar with a spoon.

I decided to try in again with a different recipe I found at fivelittlechefs.com. It took me two tries to get it right even though this recipe is really easy. I'm thinking its all about cooking the glaze just right so it will stiffen some and making sure the granola is pressed really tight to hold it together.


First I gathered up all my Ingredients. I change them up a little bit from the original recipe I used but not much, for hers was perfect.

In a large bowl, combine:
2 cups quick oats
1 cup Rice Crispy cereal
3 Tablespoons wheat germ
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup Craisins (3 small boxes)
1/4 cup chopped pecans

In a saucepan:
melt 1/4 cup butter
add: 1/2 cup honey
1/3 cup dark brown sugar

Bring to a boil, reduce heat
add, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and cook for 2 minutes*.

Pour over dry mixture and toss until coated.
Pour granola into a parchment lined 9x13 pan and press really firm*.
put in refrigerator for 30 minutes then cut into squares or bars.
Ready to eat.

*Make sure you cook it for 2 minutes after the boil! Also make sure you press it really firm.
These to instructions are crucial.
I missed doing these two parts and this is what it turned out like....


YIKES! Just fell apart and made a big mess. I put it in a bowl and will have to just scoop it out.
(deja vu).

My second batch did better.


I added some mini chocolate chips on top before placing them in the refrigerator.



I kept some for myself for morning snacks and sent the rest to my daughter in college.

You can add all kinds of different things to fit your taste. I liked the Craisins better than raisins
and added nuts.

oh....and chocolate. :)

Ive shared this at:

Perfect Day for a Photo

My daughter is fixing to graduate college [insert tear here]. I decided to have some senior pictures taken of her and since I know a wonderful photographer in town, so I knew exactly who to turn to. Her talent and prices are great! You can find the website HERE.

The photographer had made a date and perfect time for the shoot. It was my last chance since my daughter was home for spring break this weekend.


The photographer chose a spot for us to meet. Once we were at the location, my first reaction was , "Is this the field she was talking about?" My eyes could only see trees and some brush.
I did not loose trust in her decision and began walking into the area. It was then that I could now see it all coming together. It was the perfect spot. I found myself surrounded by the beauty of golden straw, a cat tail pond and the sound of nature that gave me piece of mind.  I was able to sneak a few photos with my phone camera.

 
The photo shoot began. My daughter had a fun, feeling like a model getting ready for her big debut. The weather was perfect, and the sun was hitting just right.


It was not to cold and the wind was perfect only to graze her with a hint of breeze to make this day perfect for a photograph.



Can you say proud mom? I had to brag a bit.