Even though the weather has been so much more than expected for this time of year the climate is still one of sadness. Unfortunately a lot of young life has been lost in the last few weeks. Often we do not realize that the passing of a life has a rippling effect out into the community, effecting everyone who has in some minor way touched upon those that have left us. It effects the atmosphere, instilling it with a sadness but also with a contemplative moodiness. We begin to reflect on how we are living and the ephemeral quality of the body. There is a quote by Buddha that states that,

"The trouble is, you think you have time."

This sums up our everyday existence, often we take advantage of the sunshine in our lives. When we have troubles we mull and think but when we are happy we disregard the people that have helped us into that state.We hold grudges and make excuses, putting off what we want until tomorrow because we always feel that we will have a tomorrow. However, when someone passes, we briefly remember that death is a certainty and that we all will one day experience it. In fact today may be your last. Although I have no advice on how to live your life better or on how to cheat death, I will remind you that you do not have time, if you haven't spoken to a dear friend... do so. If you have a crush...tell them. If you are fighting with a loved one...make up. Take the risk, don't wait until tomorrow, because it may not arrive.

That being said, often when this atmosphere is surrounding us we rely on friends and family to bring back the sunshine and often we do this with food. Food comforts us and flavors can evoke memories, smiles, and joy. Just because I am alkaline does not mean that I don't enjoy the comfort of a sweet treat, especially one with the bright, refreshing lemony flavor of these balls of sunshine that I have concocted.

These little treats are filled with protein and flavor, but are also substantial in the texture department so that eating one is enough (I have to do this so I don't eat the whole batch in one sitting!) They are filled with almonds, flax, chia, steel cut oats, coconut oil, and lemon with honey for that extra bit of sweet. I hope that you enjoy them and that they bring a little sunshine into your day!

Steel Cut Oat, Almond, and Lemon Balls of Sunshine

1/2 cup Almonds

1/2 cup Steel Cut Oats

2 tbs Flax Seeds

1 tbs Chia Seeds

1 Lemon, zest and juice

1 tbs Honey

1 tbs Coconut Oil

Place the Almonds, Flax, Oats, and Chia in a food processor, blend until flour like. Add the zest and juice of a lemon, the honey, and coconut oil. Process until a ball begins to form. Chill for 30 minutes in order to make rolling easier. Roll the mixture into balls and freeze. Enjoy and healthy eating!