Like Strawberry Wine...

Heecctiiccc!  That has how the last 2 months have been for me, hence the lack of posting.  I went on two trips this last part of the summer and have moved apartments after being in the same one for 4+ years.  First the trips – one was to see my parents in Cape Cod, my annual pilgrimage which I generally love.  This year the weather was crappy!!  A friend was supposed to join which would have made it fun despite the clouds, but then her flight got all screwed up so I was left to entertain myself with my parents.  It was still a nice visit, but a bit of a let-down. 

Next up was North Carolina with that same friend.  Her family has a house near Wilmington and they go every August.  Finally – beach weather!!  We took full advantage, laying out for at least 5 hours a day, soaking in the rays, drinking up some delicious cocktails (basically vodka and sprite zero – super tasty, refreshing and figure friendly!) and eating lots of great food.  Throw in a boat ride and vacation was complete.

When I got home, I started the long arduous process of purging my belongings.  I knew there was probably plenty that I no longer needed that I had stored away.  Boy was I right – ummm, why on earth would I need an entire bag of paid bills dating as far back as 2005….seriously?!?  Hello shredder bin.  I had a storage area in the basement that was packed to the brim – I think I kept the equivalent of one box full of stuff.  When did I become such pack-rat?  No mas, my friends.  I donated a ton of clothes & shoes and threw out at least 10 large bags of useless things.  I’m looking around at the minimal storage space in my new place and thankful that I took the time to do such a big cleanse.  Everywhere except in the kitchen of course….and now we get back to the food.

My mom said it best.  When I told her I had baked a co-worker a birthday cake her response was “Well its home – you’ve baked there, so now its home.”  Saying something as simple as that really settled me, it’s amazing how much power moms have!

Ok, onto the Baking GALS treat for this month.  I actually didn’t have to bake for it at all.  This recipe is sort of an easy way to make granola bars.  You basically melt some butter, sugar and peanut butter then pour it over the oats, mix it and let it set.  Simple simple.  Though I gotta say, while tasty, these are very sweet – I mean really sweet.  I also think there is too much butter, they tasted a little greasy.  Not to knock this recipe completely as I love the idea of these bars, but I feel like there could definitely be some improvements.

At any rate, I hope the guys enjoyed them – and had some milk to wash them down!  Next month, not something so sickly sweet, perhaps something seasonal – apples or pumpkin...hmm.  And sorry for the mediocre pictures, I’m trying to get better!

Recipe from Brown Eyed Baker  (http://tinyurl.com/9ktshzc)