Becky, I can't think of a better way to honor and remember the beloved, talented cooks who've passed through our lives than to try our hands at making their best recipes.

I found a recipe for "Date Loaf Candy" that I think is the one you're referring to. There are a huge number of variations to it, though. The most basic one uses only dates, nuts, milk, and sugar. Others include small amounts of clear corn syrup, vanilla, or butter. Some use fresh milk or even half-and-half; others use canned evaporated milk. Some include cherries, coconut, or other special ingredients. I'm sending the most basic recipe I've found which has the clearest instructions to go with it. If you think of any other ingredients or details that your mother's recipe had, please let me know; I'll continue searching for you.

I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope the recipe helps a little.

DATE LOAF CANDY

3 cups sugar
1/4 cup clear corn syrup
1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup milk
8 oz. chopped pitted dates

Combine sugar, milk, corn syrup and dates. Cook to soft ball stage (235 to 240 degrees F). Stir frequently to prevent scorching. Remove from heat. Cool to 104 degrees, which is just above lukewarm. Beat until it begins to harden. Add nuts and turn out onto a cold, wet cloth. Shape into a roll 2 inches in diameter. Let stand until firm and cut into slices. Store in tight container.