Happy Holidays, Have a Cookie!

We are coming up on the holiday season and unless your AIG you've tried to be relatively frugal as of late. But, if you are anything like me you get overtaken by the holiday spirit and want to get a little something for everyone you know. The whole 'tis the season and all of that.

Unfortunately in these economic times a little something can be a little difficult when the belt has been tightened. So I've come up with an idea to help you still hand out some small somethings this time of year, but still keep it financially on the rails. Bake cookies. I'm not kidding with a little packaging razzle dazzle it can be the perfect little holiday gift.

Not long ago I used to make extra cash around the holidays baking for people. I kid you not, working women and single guys were my biggest clients. People who want the homey comfort of a holiday cookie, but either didn't have the time, patience or ability to bake it on their own. So now, why not make cookies the gift. Instead of getting co-workers a 5 dollar gift card give them a box of cookies. People stopping by the house during the holidays give them a their own plate of cookies to take home. You can even splurge and get creative with the addition of a mug and some packaged hot cocoa to really set the mood.

Who doesn't love a cookie and if you feel like sharing the recipe (some cookies are well guarded family secret) write it on a card and include it with the gift. Start looking for inexpensive boxes, containers or platters to package the cookies in. Take a look at your schedule and set aside a day as the holidays near to just bake so you can have your gifts all ready to go.

Just a little economic holiday idea from one confirmed cookie lover to the world.

It's Wednesday...

Which means all those grocery store circulars will be hitting your door.


A couple of shopping recommendations as we head into the holiday season.

1. Take advantage of baking staples on sale. Right now a lot of grocery stores will begin having sales on basics like flour, sugar, extracts and decorations. Stock up. Flour can be sealed and put in the freezer if you aren't going to use it right away. And something like green decoration sugar if not finished over these holidays can be used to decorate cakes and cookies in the spring.


2. Buy wine in bulk and save. We are coming into the season for heavy entertaining and with a little foresight you can save yourself a few bucks on the booze. At Hy-Vee stores you can save 5% on 6 bottles of wine and 10% on 12 bottles. But if you head over to Baker's you can save 10% on the purchase of 6 bottles of wine, even if the wine is already on sale.

So watch those circulars and remember that on Sunday stores will put out more mid week deals. Sales coupled with coupons can start you saving even more at the checkout.

65% Off at Williams-Sonoma

Just a quick note...

I just received an email that there is a Summer Sale going on at Williams-Sonoma.

They are offering up to 65% off selected items in their stores. The email says it includes linens, housewares, electrics, cookware and more, whatever more is.

W-S can be a little on the expensive side so it's worth checking out any deals.

Additionally, if you live in Chicago, The Chopping Block is having their Summer Sale now as well. They are offering 20% off of EVERYTHING except the Big Green Egg Grill or accessories. I called their Lincoln Square location and sadly the 20% off promotion does not include their classes either.