Making Money When You're Not Employed!

Some people just radiate style and confidence! 

Isn't this the best picture of a boy who knows he has what it takes? Love this!

Now let me get to the title of this post. Because we decided that I would retire to prevent further injuring my back and that I would wait a couple more years before I collect Social Security in order to receive more each month., (I still don't totally get it but dad knows so I'm good) I am no longer receiving a paycheck. Who knew that when you stopped working, they stopped paying? LOL!

But I want you to know that even though I am home I am earning money in a variety of ways. 

1. I am able to make everything from scratch now because I have the time to do so. When I plan the weeks menu I see if there is anything that I can make from ingredients we have and do it.
2. Again, because I have the time now I can see what is in the pantry and freezer and food storage room and use those items instead of running to the store! 
3. I have more time to search out recipes that use up what we have stored and canned and have in the freezer!
4. I am more intentional about what I spend our money on. And the money that I saved once I knew I would retire is there for those things that we deem necessary.

There are many more reasons but I just wanted to share a few to show that just because I am no longer bringing in an income I am still contributing to our household. And every stay at home mom, or retired person or anyone unable to work out of the home but still wants to be a contributing member of the family, can. 

Finally, I want to share a recipe that I found at Brooklyn Farm Girl. These granola bars are so incredibly delicious and addicting and yet so easy to make. You have got to try them!

Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

2 cups quick cooking oats

1 cup crispy rice cereal

1/3 cup salted butter

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1/4 cup honey

1 tsp vanilla

3 T mini chocolate chips (I used regular size)

Put parchment paper in a 8x8 pan. Let paper over hang sides. You could also spray the pan with cooking spray. Mix oats and cereal together in a large bowl. In a small saucepan melt butter, brown sugar and honey on med-hi heat until melted. Once it begins to bubble put heat on lo and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from stove and put in vanilla. Pour mixture over oats and cereal and stir well, really well. Put mixture into prepared pan and push down with another layer of parchment paper. Take at least a minute to a  minute and a half to make sure it's pushed in firmly. You can sprinkle chocolate chips over it, cover with plastic wrap and put in fridge for at least 2 hours. Take out, cut into bars and enjoy!

A microwave option is to put butter, honey and brown sugar in microwave bowl and heat on high for 1 minute. Remove and stir until butter is melted and then return to microwave for another 1 1/2 minutes on high! Remove and stir in vanilla. Oh my goodness these are good. I think I'm going to go eat one!