Raw Nut Free Chocolate Crackle slice

On Monday we received some frightening news, our beloved 7 year old Labrador / Retriever Charlie had to undergo emergency day surgery as he had two tumours in his mouth. Hubby and I have been sick with worry all week about him and endlessly praying that the tumours were not malignant. 

Today we received the wonderful news from our Vet that Charlie's tumours were benign and we have no need to worry. We were so pleased to hear these words, yet overcome with guilt at the same time. Our dogs were our first baby's, if Charlie had these tumours growing in his mouth, why didn't we spot them sooner. What if they had been more serious? 

It dawned on hubby and I that we had not been giving our pups 100%. Sure they get walked everyday, fed and loved and they are by no means being neglected but life has gotten in the way. Our priorities have shifted, our little lady demands so much of our time and energy we are finding it hard to divide ourselves in so many directions. Between our work, our relationship, our family, our house, our social lives .. where do we find the time to give more. 

As I stared out into the backyard at this beautiful creature, with his wagging tail 2 hours after waking up from surgery and he starring right back at me all dough-eyed and gorgeous. I realised that he expects nothing more from us, he is the one thing in our lives that is totally and utterly content as he is. With no further expectation then a walk everyday, food in his bowl, shelter and some affection. We really could learn a thing or two from him. 

I came up with this simple recipe early yesterday morning, when I awoke early and needed to get my mind off thinking about the 'What ifs'. It has been a big hit with my little lady and so darn' simple!

Ingredients:

 1.5 x cups Puffed Buckwheat(you could also use popped Popcorn, if not grain free)

1/2 x cup Organic Dried Blueberries (you could also use Dried Cranberries, always ensure you check the ingredients for hidden sugars and preservatives. Dried Fruit are often sold as 'healthy' options, yet packed with added sugars.I use Honest to Goodness brand)

2 x tbs Sunflower Seeds

2/3 x cup Melted Coconut Oil

1/4 x cup Raw Cacao powder

1 x tsp Raw Mesquite powder

2 x tbs Pure Organic Maple Syrup

Method:

Add all ingredients into a large mixing bowl and stir well until all of the dry ingredients are coated in what looks like a chocolate sauce. 

Line a loaf tin with baking paper, and pour mixture into the tin. Using the back of a spoon press down and compact all of the ingredients. Let it set in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or until hard.

Slice and Enjoy!

Remember.. the coconut oil will start to melt if left out of the fridge or in warm temperatures. Its best to keep this one refrigerated. If you are sending this as a lunch box treat to school. It should be fine during the winter months in a cooler bag. 

Love & Gratitude

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