MERRY CHRISTMAS

Samantha & Santa's Lip Smackers

20 large marshmallows
3 tbsp butter
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
3 cups crispy rice cereal

Combine the marshmallows, butter, and chocolate chips in a microwav-proof mixing bowl.  Microwave on high for 1 minute.  Marshmallows will puff up.  Stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.  Return to the microwave and microwave for another 30 seconds until marshmallows and chocolate chips are melted.

Remove mixture from the microwave and stir in the cereal, one cup at a time.
Grease a cookie sheet with butter.  Then butter your hands.  Shape mixture into whatever shapes you prefer and decorate if you desire.

To store, if you have any left, keep in an airtight container or bag in cellephane bags to give as gifts.

ICE CREAM SANTAS

All the ingredient quantities will depend on the number of people being served.  For each person being served you will need:
1 large scoop vanilla ice cream (or chocolate, depending on your Santa's skintone!)
sugar ice cream cone*
canned whipped cream
M&Ms
small heavy duty paper plate or a dessert plate

Note:  Children love making their own and the directions are very simple:

Place scoop of ice cream on plate. 
Place a cone upside down atop the ice cream to make Santa's hat.
Use the whipped cream to make Santa a beard and to trim the bottom of the cap as well as a blob on top.  Use the M&Ms to make Santa's eyes, nose, and mouth.

*The sugar cones with the chocolate coating inside add a bit of extra flavor and make the cone a little more sturdy.