Mmmmm....smells like cold weather?!

Most people say that pumpkin pie smells like fall. Not me. I think nothing smells more like cold weather than homemade granola. This just might be an unknown fact about me. I love whole grains. I adore oatmeal. I will choose a hearty wheat bread over white bread every time (except one...grilled cheese sandwiches). I love wheat germ, I eat it on my ice cream. When I was growing up my Mom made this granola, but only in the fall and winter because of the oven time.
My whole house smells YUMMY today!
Go make some.... right now, it's good for you and your soul!

Mom's Granola

8 c. oats

6 c. wheaties

2 c. wheat germ

2 c. coconut

1 tsp. salt

2 c. brown sugar

4 oz. sunflower seeds

1 c. oil

1 c. water

3 tsp vanilla

Mix all dry ingredients in a very large bowl. ( I usually make half this recipe so I can smell the goodness twice!) Mix remaining wet ingredients and pour over dry mix in bowl.

Mix well. Pour onto a large cookie sheet. Bake @ 250 degrees for 3 hours, stirring every 20-30 minutes so it doesn't burn :) After it cools store in an empty oatmeal canister. I usually add dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips before I eat it! I even eat this as a trail mix type snack!ENJOY!