By Amy Story Larson

Marinated CPO (Cheese, Peppers, Olives)

INGREDIENTS

1/4 c. olive oil

3 c. cheddar cheese, cubed

1 large red bell pepper, cut into pieces

1 14 oz. can black olives

1 c. green olives with pimentos

1 Tbsp. white vinegar

1/2 tsp. dried basil

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. minced garlic

1/3 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper (optional)

PREPARATION

> Combine ingredients in large bowl.

> Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. Toss several times during the marinating time and then serve.

NOTE: Something different from the usual fare, this dish could be eaten as part of a meal or noshed on straight out of the fridge for sustenance while on the go.

Greek Yogurt Cookies

INGREDIENTS

One box vanilla (or other flavor) cake mix

2 c. plain Greek yogurt

PREPARATION

> Mix together in a bowl.

> Place teaspoonfuls on baking sheet.

> Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

> Decorate after cooling with icing of your choice, sprinkles, colored sugar granules, etc.

NOTE: Post-holidays, simple does it. Sometimes when my kids were young and in school we had what we called the “Bad Mother Breakfast,” which consisted of the handiest sweet nearby and a glass of whole milk. Some days, it was all I could do to get them out the door fed. And they loved it.