Whole grains- My favorite GRANOLA

I recently found this wonderful granola recipe from a cookbook my daughter gave me for Christmas and I have modified it a little to suit my taste! It makes a great healthy breakfast or snack as well. Lower in sugar and fat than others I have seen. Whole grains are healthy, and this recipe makes them very tasty.

GRANOLA

7 CUPS ROLLED OATS (not quick oats)
1 CUP COCONUT (unsweetened or sweetened)
1 CUP WHEAT GERM (cereal aisle in grocery store)
1 CUP SLICED OR CHOPPED ALMONDS
1 CUP CHOPPED WALNUTS
1/2 TEASPOON SALT
1 CUP MAPLE SYRUP
3/4 CUP CANOLA OR VEGETABLE OIL
1 TABLESPOON VANILLA EXTRACT
2 CUPS DRIED FRUITS -cranberries, dates, raisins
(whatever your favorites are or you can leave them out)

Preheat oven to 250. Combine all dry ingredients(except fruit) in a large bowl. Separately mix the oil, maple syrup and vanilla then add the syrup mixture to the dry mixture. Stir until all is well coated. Spread the granola on 2 large greased cookie sheets. Bake for 1 hour, remove pans and stir mixture. Then bake for an additional hour. Transfer granola to a large bowl then add the dried fruit. Store in airtight container or in large zip lock bags. Warning addicting!!

FAMILY CHRISTMAS PICTURES 2008

Uncle Brian got this toy for Audrey for Christmas. She loved being pushed around in it and even more she likes pushing it around herself.
Audrey on Christmas Day. She did not want that bow in on her head. It is cute she says, but its not for me!! Great-Grandma Alcera loved playing with Audrey, as you can see by this picture.
The Cohen Family taking a break from Rock Band!
Auntie Mandy playing with Audrey. She is so good with Audrey.
Marissa, Audrey and me relaxing. Notice Sadie in the background. She had to be put in her cage to get her calm down from all the exciting things that were happening at Christmas!