Ranch style dressing mix Stir together and chill. For use as salad dressing, substitute a second cup of buttermilk for the sour cream or yogurt. Hint: Use cucumber "coins" instead of crackers. OTHER QUICK DIPPIES that make up in small quantities: * Blend 1/3 to 1/2 of a mashed banana with 2 or 3 tsps of mayonnaise. * Whipe together 1 tsp of smooth peanut butter with 1 tsp of mayonnaise. If still too thick, add a few drops of milk. * Mix 1/2 tsp of lemon juice and 1/2 tsp of honey or sugar to 1 or 2 tsp of mayonnaise. CUTTING UP WITH KIDS Have your children help you cut up green onions, parsley, lettuce, cheese slices, fruit, etc., using a scissors instead of a knife. Using a scissors helps coordination (YES!) and keeps them busy for a _long_ time! CHERRY BALLS Stuff whole (or half) cherry tomatoes with cream cheese, a cheese spread, egg salad or tuna salad. Actually thinking of snacks as hors d'oeuvres rather than desserts will open up a whole new way of looking at this category.