Here are some suggestions that will help you simplify and save money on your breakfasts.

Make a double batch of muffins and bake in a 9x13 inch pan.

Then cut into pieces the size of a piece of cake and serve. This will save you from greasing and washing individual muffin tins.

Serve oatmeal in a fancy glass.

Use a sundae dish with fruit, granola, coconut, or brown sugar on top. This is a treat that makes breakfast more exciting for the kids.

To make "instant" maple and brown oatmeal

Before bed add oatmeal and milk or water to a bowl with 1 drop of maple flavoring and brown sugar to taste. Let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning microwave for 90 seconds and enjoy!

Children's morning routine

Don't let kids eat or watch TV in the morning until they first are dressed and ready for school and have their beds made and their rooms picked up. Then let them eat breakfast.

Save bacon grease

Use it for frying eggs, flavoring corn bread, muffins or for greasing pans.

In coffee cake

Substitute equal amounts of apple juice for the milk, then add 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon.

In syrup

Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of orange marmalade into a cup of warm maple syrup. It perks up ordinary pancake syrup.