What is it about a cookbook, with clean pages and unstained covers? Last year, I purchased a new cookbook. I donated most of my 20+-year-old Junior League cookbooks; with equal parts torn and stained pages. Too many of the recipes did not match my cooking skills. And, until I found this cookbook, I thought I was done with cookbooks. The author’s easy to find and flexible ingredients gave me the skills and confidence to make a yummy, family-friendly meal in under 30 minutes. #ad My new obsession with cookbooks is how I found my new favorite hostess gift idea.

Just in time for the holidays.

Now, I know some of you may use Pinterest or online cooking sites, but I still love a cookbook. For whatever reason, it is easier for me to follow on a page than on a screen. Does anyone want to weigh in on the screen versus page debate?

When I shared my favorite five finds at HomeGoods; coffee table, design and cookbooks made that list.

I bought the Joanna Gaines Magnolia Table cookbook for 1/2 off the retail price at HomeGoods.

I am a little unconventional in where I display my cookbooks. Just like my accessories, they tend to migrate from room to room.

For me, I love to flip through the pages and wander over the photos and ingredients. When my cookbooks are in the kitchen, they are the eye-candy on the counter.

I loved Patricia Heaton’s cooking show on the Food Network. So when she announced on social media she had a cookbook in the works, I jumped on it. I ordered a signed copy from a California bookstore that hosted one of my favorite actresses. America’s favorite tv mom has kitchen skills.

She signed it!

While driving in the city this summer, I heard this author and entertaining guru on Hoda’s radio show.  Her southen accent drew me in and her  her down to earth, casual entertaining ideas were encouraging. 

I bought this cookbook for me and then ordered a couple for hostess gifts. I now own two of her books. She is also a Today Show contributor. 

What is your favorite hostess gift idea? 

Oh, and in case you were wondering? All of the cookbooks featured today were sitting pretty on my new kitchen counters! The cookbook stand prop was a Valentine’s Day gift to me.

You can find the cookbook here. And, as an added bonus it is 25% off right now. #ad