Well, as forecasted, the temperature is low this morning...still in the 20's! And only going to a high in the 30's!  No rain nor snow in the forecast but it is really cloudy and not very bright.

Well, the end of the government shutdown is in sight but it depends on the House vote which I think will probably happen sometime tomorrow.  If the shut down has affected you I hope that things will work out fast.

When the household funds are low, one thing that goes by the wayside is sweets...cookies, cake, brownies, etc.  And although about half the nations households bake, many folks still are uncomfortable when it comes to baking.  Maybe a good idea would be to start with something simple...say, Rice Krispies Bars.  

First of all, you do not have to purchase name brand cereal.  A box of house brand crisp rice cereal costs around $2, although you can find it cheaper in some stores. And you only use part of a box.  The second item needed is marshmellows, miniatures work best, and a 10 ounce bag costs around $1.30.  The final item is 3 tablespoons of butter.  House brand butter costs between $2 and $2.50 but you will only use a tiny portion leaving the rest for other uses.

These are easy to make.  First in a large pot on low heat melt 3 tablespoons of butter.  Once melted, at the 10 ounce bag of marshmellows and stir until melted.  When melted add 6 cups of crisp rice cereal stirring until all coated.  Turn into a greased 9 by 13 (or close to that size) pan and press until even using a greased spatula.  Let cool before cutting into pieces.  You can add things like M & M candies, chocolate chips, nut, etc. to make the treats special.  Add them as soon as the crisp rice is coated.

If you have children, they can help by measuring out the cereal and any added items but it's safer to let adults actually make the treats.

Not only are these easy to make and good to eat, they are great food gifts.  One way to give them would be to check out the local thrift store for a 9 X 13 pan.   Then measure out six cups of cereal and place in a house brand gallon sealable bag, add a bag of marshmellows, and a small sealable bag of added treats (if desired).  Take time to write out the recipe on a card.  Add all the ingredients to the pan, add the recipe and a bow and it's done.

I'm sure most of you have made these cereal treats but some may not have made them nor realized how easy and inexpensive they are.  Also, when considering gifts, these do make inexpensive gifts either made or just the ingredients.

To all of you who have or are serving in our military, thank you for you service.  Keep safe and be proud on this Veterans Day.

Talk with you tomorrow...