The medicine I was given yesterday really has helped me feel better.  Plus, the 11 hours of sleep I got last night have really helped me.  I’m still not at 100%, but I’m at least at 70%.  Much better than I was feeling 3 days ago.

My father-in-law had diabetes and blood pressure issues.  For a few years at Christmas time, I would buy him treats he could enjoy.  These treats contained low sugar and low sodium.  He also couldn’t swallow almonds all that well, and I would buy him lots of almonds.  He kindly told me not to anymore.  Plus, he hated coconut.  So what did I get him?   I would go to Trader Joe’s and get him various nuts, but not almonds, with no salt, pumpkin butter, and Larabars.

I thought Larabars looked interesting, but did not try them for the longest time because I didn’t know what the dates would taste like.  I know, I know, I’m such a chicken.  Then, when I did, I was hooked.  They are so good.

This Christmas, I had planned to make him some homemade ones.  In fact, I bought the dates on the Friday before his death.  It took a month or so after his death to make the homemade ones for myself.  I ended up making coconut cream ones, which I know he would have hated.

Let me tell you, they are delicious!!!!!  I would take one of those and a cheese stick and would be set for breakfast.  Yummo!

Coconut Cream Homemade Lara Bars

Stars of the recipe:

• 15 Medjool dates or 20 dates (pitted)
• 1/2 c. almonds
• 1/2 c. cashews
• 3/4 c. unsweetened coconut, shredded
• 2 Tbsp. coconut oil
• 2 Tbsp. water

Steps:

1. Mix the almonds, coconut and cashews in the food processor until fine. (Turn it off and on so you don’t blow the motor.)
2. Add dates, oil, and water. Pulse until a dough begins to form.
3. Line an 8-by-8 pan with either parchment paper or foil. Make sure there is extra on the sides, so you can lift the paper or foil and bars.
4. Press the dough down so it’s packed down.
5. Place in the fridge for an hour or so.
6. When it’s set up, lift it out of the pan. Slice into bars.
7. Enjoy! (It will last in the fridge for about 2 weeks.)

Stay kind!

Have a magical day,
Traci