A Good Will Cookie Party

Cookies are a delicious and fun part of the holidays. I have many memories of spending time in the kitchen with my Mom learning to make our family's favorites. Cookies seem to have a way of bringing us together and are a perfect theme for a holiday party. You've probably heard of a cookie exchange party (where everyone brings a different treat to share) but why not take that concept and help spread joy this holiday season. Invite friends to bring a few dozen cookies in addition to supplies for making cookie packages. Group a few different cookies and spend time together wrapping them up in creative bundles or boxes. Then, target a group of people, whether you know them or not, and hand them out. Imagine the fun you'll have with your friends, in addition to helping make the day of those you give an out-of-the-blue gift of yummy cookies.

Above are a few new favorites from Martha Stewart to add to your recipe box. Pictures and recipes can be found here. Below are some suggestions for lovely ways to present your cookie packages (also from Martha Stewart).

A Passion for Pink (and More)

I'm sure you're all aware that October is breast cancer awareness month. Today's post is a special feature dedicated to showing off some everyday products that donate proceeds to research efforts. How about using some of these items to throw your very own charity event. Whether you're supporting breast cancer research or any charity that's close to your heart, consider throwing an event to raise awareness and dollars to help. Some entertaining ideas to do this are:

- Throw a cost per plate dinner party with proceeds going to a cause
- Have a used item silent auction (everyone bring items from home they no longer use/want; everyone bids on those items and the proceeds go to charity)
- Plan a group outing or trip and have the admission/participation cost per person include a donation
- Host any kind of party and request that the attendees bring an item for a soup kitchen, toys for tots, etc

Do you have any additional ideas on how to entertain for a cause? Please leave a comment if so!

- Hershey's Pink Packaged Products
- Pink ribbon tote bag
- Breast cancer awareness 7 piece fondue set
- Breast cancer awareness mug
- The range of pink products offered by Kitchen Aid
- Cookie cutter in the shape of the support ribbon
- Breast cancer awareness Brita pitcher
- Pink ribbon post-its
- Pink ribbon cooler by Igloo