Ashlyn's First Day of Kindergarten

Isaac's First Day of 2nd Grade

Bee's Game 2010

New Blog Site and Name

I've moved to a new location! Come for a visit:  a pina colada: www.apinacolada.blogspot.com

Don't forget to save the new address!  Luvs, Alisa

Nana's Granola

I grew up eating this granola, so I'm calling it "Nana's Granola," since that is what my children call my mom. This is a yummy, healthy breakfast that my entire family enjoys. I've taken my mom's recipe, and have added a few things, which I'll explain after the base recipe.

Base recipe:

6 cups Oats (old fashioned)
1 cup coconut flakes
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup water

mix ingredients and put in a 9x13 pan. Bake at 300* for 10 minutes. Take out, stir, then bake for 10 more minutes.

My additions:
I play around with this recipe every time I make it.
Some ideas or additions that I have used:
sesame seeds, pecans, almonds, dried blueberries, cherries, apricots, cranberries, and flax seed.

Substitutes:
Lately, I use the organic extra-virgin coconut oil to replace the canola oil. This is super healthy! For an explanation on why coconut oil is healthy, visit my very knowledgeable sister-in-law, Robyn's website: Green Smoothie Girl.
**The coconut oil adds a yummy taste, however, it might be too sweet for some. So, I have also done 1/4 cup canola and 1/4 cup coconut.

Flaxseed: I add ground flaxseed after I bake the granola. Truth be told, I think my family prefers the flax in the granola. It has a very mild, light flavor and adds a hint of a nutty touch. Obviously this is hard to explain, but I think you'll like it. Especially given the important health factors! The seed is prized for its many vitamins and minerals, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, the essential polyunsaturated fats that may reduce the risk of heart disease. Flaxseed and ground flax are also rich in fiber and lignans, hormones thought to inhibit breast and prostate cancers.
You can buy the seeds whole and grind them yourself with a grinder, or buy them already ground (look for "flax meal" on the label). It is important to eat the seed grounded. I used to use the whole seed, but found out that the meal's nutrients are easier for the body to absorb.
I also use flax meal in many other recipes. I add it to my green smoothies, pancakes, french toast, muffins, turkey meatloaf, etc. You can pretty much sneak it into anything, and your family doesn't even know that they are getting such great nutrition! :)

JCREW, I love you!

Both of these outfits are so stylin' and I'm lovin' the ruffled blouse.

I'm lovin' the style and color of both of these coats and both bags! Darling!

Fall fashion is fabulous.
Boots, jackets, coats, and sweaters are all top-notch in my book!
Love them.

JCREW

In the Kitchen

Found this "squeal with delight" site that has so many great products! These aprons are so exciting and would make kitchen time so fun! There are so many designs and colors to choose from at Jillie Willie. They also have darling children aprons!

I thought these bags were fun. I think I should get one for my daughter's overnight bag.

These groovy gloves would make doing the dishes so doable!

And these? How cool are these?! You put them on as your slippers, and clean the floor as you're running around your house. Smart thinking!

This is NOT fair!

How can you possibley have such darling shoes for little girls and not have big kid sizes? Buying for little girls is too much fun! And my Ashy would sure love a couple pair of these shoes, or at least I would love some for her! :) I'm so lovin' these shoes for little girls! The boy shoes are cute too, but nothing compares to fashion for a little princess. I'm just sayin'....
So, for those of you that have little tiny princesses, you just might like to venture over to the Foxpaws site!