The 5th Annual Bake and Destroy Gift Guide & Giveaway

Posted by BakeandDestroy on November 27th, 2011. Filed under: gift guides, giveaways.

Immortal black metal ChristmasGood Godzilla, it’s that time of the year again. You’ve digested your Thanksgiving dinner, throat-punched a bunch of old ladies at Best Buy to get the best deal on a hideously large plasma screen TV and now you’re settling down at your desktop trying to find the perfect gift for all the weirdos in your life. As always, I’m here to help. For five years now I’ve been bringing you the awesomest, stupidest, and most wonderful things the Internet has to offer. Just check out my gift guide legacy if you don’t believe me!

This year I wanted to give you something really different, so I’ve enlisted a bunch of my friends to come up with top 5 lists for their respective fields of expertise. And as always, I have some great stuff to give away – those are sprinkled throughout the guide and listed again at the bottom. Everything I’m giving away would make an amazing gift – or, of course you can keep it for yourself, you selfish bastard.

Let’s kick things off with my longtime friend Thaddeus Mountain. Not only does Thad have the coolest real name in the world, but he also sat behind me in almost every class in high school, which resulted in us getting sent out into the hallway quite a bit. We bonded in high school over our love of pro-wrestling, so I couldn’t think of anyone better to bring you the…

For the Rasslin’ Fan:

“Wrestling fans are a notoriously fickle lot, especially in the age of the Interwebz. These rad gifts will satisfy both the smarmiest of smart marks, and the rubiest rube that ever rubed, who wouldn’t know kayfabe if it locked them in a Figure-Four, knife-edge chopping them all the livelong day.” – Thad

  1. Bret Hart necklaceLuchador necklace by Finest Imaginary - Moustaches, necklaces, and Lucha Libre. The best triple team since the Fabulous Freebirds.
  2. The Many Faces of Muto DVD Set - A gift for the die-hard fan. You’ll be hitting your foes with green mist and power drive elbows in no time thanks to Muta.
  3. Luchador Stainless Steel Flask - El Santo says that you’re thirsty. Listen to him.
  4. CM Punk Lawn Gnome - This isn’t your ordinary gnome. This gnome is a multiple-time World Champion. He’s also straight edge, which means he’s BETTER THAN YOU.
  5. Andre the Giant Art Print - Perfect for any fan, this is probably the greatest piece of art you can hang in your house. (You could win this! See the end of this post for details.)
Natalie’s Two Cents: As a wrestling fan and a fashionable mother trucker, I have several pendants by Dotty the Demon on my wishlist this year. I’m already the proud owner of a Honkey Tonk Man necklace and hope to get the Roddy Piper or Bret Hart next! Like what you see? Well, Dotty the Demon is going to give one of you a Bret Hart necklace of your very own! Check out the end of this post to find out how to enter.

For the Chicagoan (or the Wanna-be Chicagoan):

I’m writing this list myself because I have an ear of corn tattooed on my knuckle and a Chicago hot dog tattooed on my back. I also coined the phrase “cornfed as fuck,” therefore, this top 5 is mine.

  1. Made in the USA Chicago EL water bottleGenuine Chicago Hot Dog Print by Betty Turbo – The first thing you need to know about real-deal Chicagoans is how we like our hot dogs. Mustard, relish, diced onions, celery salt, sport peppers, pickle spears and fresh tomato on a poppy seed bun. No ketchup or we will for real kill you. This print will help you remember, and possibly save your life. (Betty Turbo is giving a print away to one of my readers, so check out the end of this post for details!)
  2. Chicago Flag Ceramics by Circa Ceramics – Know something else we Chicagoans are mega proud of? Our flag. We fly it from our fire escapes, tattoo it all over ourselves and print it on everything we can get our hands on. I took it so far as to eat my dinner off Chicago flag plates from Circa Ceramics and so should you.
  3. Chicago-made Cosmetics by Ethically Engineered – A lot of people are shocked to find out that Chicago is one of the country’s greenest cities, but we have a  long, proud history of bike-friendliness and green engineering in this city. You can support Chicago’s ever-growing green movement by purchasing eco-friendly, vegan soaps, bottleless shampoos, lip blams and more from Ethically Engineered.
  4. Lou Malnati’s Deep Dish Pizza – You’ve probably noticed that we of the Big Shoulders are fierce about our local foods. I’ve seen fist fights break out over New York style vs Chicago deep dish pizza. Say what you want about either one, but nothing says “home” to me so much as a slice of Lou Malnati’s famous, buttery-crust deep dish. Check out all their options online, from DIY kits to frozen pies.
  5. Chicago L Waterbottle – This is actually a teaser suggestions from a little side project I’m working on with my friend Katya. You can follow us on Twitter to find out when this awesome, 100% made in the USA water bottle will be available!
Natalie’s Two Cents: Yep, two more cents on my own list. Want to rep another Chicago original this holiday? Hi, I’m a Chicago original. Check out the Bake and Destroy Shop for aprons, coffee mugs, t-shirts and more! Plus, I’m going to send one of you  set of four stackable Bake and Destroy mugs. So check out the end of this post for details! (Free shipping on orders over $40* on 11/28. Coupon Code SHOPNOV28. Or, starting 11/29 15% off orders over $45. Coupon Code ADEC1145. Click here for details.)

For the Book Nerd

This list comes to you from my friend Ben, a real-life librarian! Can you believe a librarian would be friends with me? Me neither! Anyway, here are his top five picks for the literary-minded special someone on your list!
  1. Vonnegut t-shirtA subscription to the McSweeney’s Book Release Club - McSweeney’s books publishes everything from forgotten classics to new work by writers like Nick Hornby, Dave Eggers, and William T. Vollman. A gift subscription to the BRC gets the lucky recipient the next eight books McSweeney’s puts out, roughly one per month. And who doesn’t like getting presents in the mail?
  2. 100 classic Penguin book covers, in postcard form - For any literature buff, the iconic Penguin cover design is unmistakeable. This box collects 100 Penguin covers, mostly from the 30′s and 40′s when the distinctive single-color horizontal stripes stood for quality fiction at a reasonable price. When Alan Lane founded the company in 1935, he famously declared “I have never been able to understand why cheap books should not also be well-designed, for good design is no more expensive than bad.” Nearly eighty years later, this set proves the wisdom of his radical idea.
  3. Sports Jerseys for Book Nerds - If the book nerd in your life can’t tell a touchdown from a hole-in-one, it doesn’t mean they lack team spirit–their heroes might just come from a different field. These team jerseys from Novel-T feature writers and characters from both classic and modern literature, so everyone’s loyalties are covered. Plus, $1 from each purchase goes towards 826nyc or Doctors Without Borders, meaning your gift will be appreciated twice over.
  4. The Word Made Flesh, Literary Tattoos from Bookworms Worldwide - Great writing inspires a different kind of ink in this collection of literary tattoos. Full color photography, plus personal stories from the featured models, make this celebration of the written word both beautiful and inspirational. It’s a perfect coffee table book for a well-read household.
  5. Upcycled vintage book journals - Moleskine is so over, right? Get your nerd one of these journals upcycled from vintage book covers, and they’ll be sure to get attention while scribbling notes for their next story. There are a ton of styles and subjects available–everything from science textbooks to Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys–but if none of them are quite right, the maker is happy to take custom orders.
Natalie’s Two Cents: I want on of those t-shirts. Poe. That is all.

For the Comic Book Gal

…and by “gal” we definitely mean ADULT gal. This list comes from one of my favorite wrestling-and-cake-obsessed artists, Agnes. You might know her as Betty Turbo (check out the end of this post to find out how you can win one of her prints!) Agnes admits that it was difficult not to make this list “a completely filthy list of smut,” and now you know why I love her.

  1. comic book headbandChester 5000 XYV by Jess Fink – For the dame who likes her saucy stories sepia toned and chock full of robot love machines.  You may already know creator Jess Fink from her Threadless t-shirt designs, now her erotic web comic is available in a handsome hardbound book from Top Shelf Productions.  Explicit and graphic but still playful, sweet, clever, and beautifully painted.
  2. Comic Sound FX headbands from Janine Basil – Great for accessorizing a comic con outfit, or just when you’re having a totally rad hair day and want your head to say KAPOW!  Brightly colored and attention getting to make you feel like a superhero!  Janine’s in the UK, so hurry up if you’re in the U.S. shopping for Christmas!
  3. This Journal Belongs To… by Ming Doyle – A GORGEOUS professionally printed art journal featuring the amazing work of illustrator and comic book artist Ming Doyle.  Peeking inside someone’s sketchbook has never been such a beautiful adventure.  Every other art book on your coffee table will be jealous.  Featuring tasty things book nerds love to adore, like a shiny pearlescent cover and a red ribbon bookmark.  Check out the cute promo video Ming made!
  4. Girls With Slingshots by Danielle Corsetto – How generous are you feeling?  The sixth printed volume of this looong running webcomic is now available for preorder, and it’s the first one in full color!  Order all six for that extra special lady on your list and she’ll have hours and hours to spend engrossed in relationship trials & tribulations, sarcasm, a few cute kitties, and a talking cactus!  This is a slice-of-life comic full of people you’d want to know… or at least talk shit about. Order the “artist editions” and get them personalized for you by Danielle herself.
  5. Reading Comics: 24 Postcards Depicting Americas 2nd Favorite Preoccupation by Denis Kitchen – What fan of printed matter doesn’t need a few more charming postcards to hoard, use as bookmarks, or send a handwritten note?  That comic-loving babe you know appreciates special messages written on REAL PAPER with actual pens or pencils.  Fun vintage photos featuring random folks and occasionally celebrities reading comics, with some smartass captions on the back.

Natalie’s Two Cents: Agnes and I may have bonded over our love of 80′s wrestling and Andrew W.K., but our love of wacky hair things has kept us together all these years. Some of my favorites come from Lucky Cupcake Hairclips – check out the comic book, wrestling and even Star Wars-inspired bows! You’ll find a coupon code for 10% off to our left over there, and head cupcake Joy has agreed to give away some limited-edition Bake and Destroy bows to one of you! Check out the end of this post for details. (And check out my post about why these bows are so awesome.)

For Mini Cool People

Kids are awesome. They have all the benefits of hanging out with your most mentally unstable, perpetually-drunken friends – with about 1/8th of the chance that they’ll end up getting you arrested. Embarrassingly honest, completely uninhibited and cute enough to get away with wearing some seriously questionable outfits, kids are some of my favorite people to shop for. Here are some ideas for the wee people in your life.

  1. Parry Gripp albums – This gift will be equally welcomed by kids and their parents. Cussing-free, mainly pop-punk songs about food, famous memes and other silly topics. Go listen to them free on Parry Gripp’s website and then download them on iTunes or Amazon.
  2. Threadless t-shirts for kids – While there are scads of adorable clothing options for little girls, I think most parents of boy-type children such as myself will tell you, there isn’t crap. Luckily, Threadless makes really cute shirts and onsies for kids with a sense of humor.
  3. Ants on a Log soap – For me, ants on a log solved a major issue I had as a parent: getting my kid to flipping eat something. The healthy combo of peanut butter, celery sticks and raisins works every time, though. This look-alike vegan soap solves another parental issue: getting your kids into the tub. For under $10 it’s a smart stocking stuffer for the dirty little kid in your family.
  4. Mad Monster Party DVD – Got a niece whose totally obsessed with Monster High? So do I! And while the monster lover in me thinks they’re way cooler than Barbie, the auntie in me is all, “why are they dressed so slutty?” Encourage your little lady’s creepy ways with something a little more innocent. Plus, Mad Monster Party features the vocal talents of Boris Karloff and Phyllis Diller so it has both horror and comedy street cred to spare.
  5. CakeSpy cookbook – A few weeks ago I posted a simple-but-fun recipe from CakeSpy’s new, kid-friendly cookbook. With lots of adorable illustrations and creative recipes like Candy Salad, this book would make a cute gift for any kid who loves to play in the kitchen. The cover is pink as all get-out, but my son will vouch for the recipes’ unisex appeal.
Natalie’s Two Cents: Some of Teno’s favorite toys were a totally cheap thrill – printable cut-and-make paper toys from Fantastic Toys. For just a few dollars each, you’ll receive PDF files allowing you to print and make an endless supply of doll houses, favor boxes and more. The favor boxes double as a sweet way to gift someone homemade cookies and candies. Check out the end of this post to find out how you can win three PDFs from Fantastic Toys!

For the Teacher 

This list comes from my mom, who has been teaching for 20+ years: “The subject of teacher gifts comes up in one forum or another every year, and I always hesitate to give my opinion because I really don’t want to sound ungrateful.  The thing parents need to remember is that we generally have between 22 and 30 students at one time. (Middle school teachers have more than elementary, but from what they tell me, they don’t get as many gifts at that level.)  So the ornament or coffee mug you’ve chosen is probably very cute and unique to you, but chances are good it is one of ten we receive that year. Multiply that by then number of years the teacher has been in the classroom and she could very likely open a Mugs R Us franchise or single-handedly decorate the tree in Daley Plaza.I requested the input of several teacher friends and almost every one mentioned that it would be easier to list things we do NOT want/need more of. That brings us back to the ungrateful comment above.”

  1. She already has one, thanks.

    The number one most popular request is gift certificates of all kinds: Starbucks, local restaurants, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, mani/pedi spa certificates as well as Target and department store cards are always the right size, color and flavor.  For those of us who love to shop, we not only get to shop, but we don’t have to worry about spending holiday shopping money on ourselves. Bonus!

  2. The half aprons from Foodphyte are quite popular with the K-2 teachers at my school.  You can catch several of us in the hall wearing our cute little teacher aprons with our pockets filled with those things we use all day long. (In my case, it’s stickers, pens, my glasses and lipgloss.)
  3. Chocolate was also mentioned as a popular and appreciated gift. A box of candy is nice to have on hand when holiday visitors drop in, and if dietary restrictions prohibit the teacher from enjoying it herself, chances are good her family will appreciate the treat  I cannot, of course, speak for all educators, but I know I’m not alone when I say I will not eat anything that someone baked at home unless I personally know the baker and have seen her kitchen. I can’t help it. I’ve always been squeamish that way. But I will always remember the day a parent showed up at my classroom door with a pie from Baker’s Square. My whole family reaped the benefits that evening!
  4. Most teachers are paper/office supply junkies. It seems to go with the territory. Cute note cards, notepads, cool pens (if you’ve ever seen me nerd out in Target over the Pilot V2 pens, you’d buy me a package). As many friends have mentioned, we do buy a great deal of our classroom supplies out of our own pockets, so cute/unique office supply items will probably be put to good use.
  5. I’ve been teaching for over twenty years and I still remember every sweet, heartfelt note I’ve received from a parent.  I don’t care if the Dunkin Donuts gift certificate in the card is for the minimum amount, if the parent took the time to acknowledge that I knock myself out day after day trying to do the best I can, applauds me for being caring and patient and tells me how much their child loves me and loves school because of me, well, that is one hell of a meaningful gift.
Natalie’s Two Cents:  My mom speaks the truth about eating baked goods made in a stranger’s kitchen. It can be scary! Still, what hard-working teacher wouldn’t appreciate something warm from the oven?  This year, try the next best thing to homemade – give your child’s teacher a couple of mixes from Dassant – scones, beer bread, truffle brownies and more. You’ll save $5 off your order of $20 or more when you enter the code DESTROY online. Plus, two of you will win four mixes of your choice delivered straight to your home! Check out the end of this post for details.

The Giveaway

I hope that covers the bases for at least most of the people on your list this year. If I missed someone (like your vegan friend, or your sister who rivals Martha Stewart’s craftiness check out some of my older gift guides!
And now I have some gifts for you guys! Starting on Tuesday, November 29th I will be choosing someone different every night to receive a prize as outlined below. To enter, leave me a comment about what you’re hoping for this holiday. The contest is only open to those with a US shipping address, and you may only enter once. I’ll be choosing the winning comments at random – so you can enter at any point during the seven days!
  1. Nov. 29th – Four Dassant baking mixes of your choice. Congrats, Jenny! 
  2. Nov. 30th – One Betty Turbo print of your choice. Congrats, Teri! 
  3. Dec. 1st – Bret Hart necklace by Dotty the Demon + an Andre the Giant print from Boxing Bear. Congrats Crystal! 
  4. Dec. 2nd – Three Gingerbread Village printable toy PDFs from Fantastic Toys. Congrats Mike!
  5. Dec. 3rd. - Four Dassant baking mixes of your choice. Congrats Sarah! 
  6. Dec. 4th – Bake and Destroy hairclips prize package from Lucky Cupcake Hairclips Congrats Susan!
  7. Dec. 5th – Bake and Destroy stackable mugs from me Congrats Ashley! 

Good luck, and crappy crolidays! 

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148 Responses to The 5th Annual Bake and Destroy Gift Guide & Giveaway

  1. amy marantino
    November 27th, 2011 at 5:49 pm

    i am hoping for a spice grinder

  2. shannon
    November 27th, 2011 at 5:54 pm

    All I want this year is a KitchenAid pistachio artisan stand mixer!!

  3. Stephanie Grant
    November 27th, 2011 at 6:03 pm

    This holiday I am just hoping to enjoy my family and friends one more time and a waffle maker :)

  4. Heidi Clarke
    November 27th, 2011 at 6:19 pm

    All I want for Christmas is ….hmmm….this is really hard. Honestly I want my son and husband to do the dishes for a week straight, and for each of them to experience the invention known as : the steam mop – give it a whirl around the old hardwood. AND I want smiles. If they aren’t smiling as they complete these tasks, I reject their efforts. I’m totally low maintenance.

  5. Nancy
    November 27th, 2011 at 6:43 pm

    Just hoping to spend as much time with my husband and my son as I can. Of course the hope for most of my Amazon wish list, too. And gift cards – I love doing my own shopping after the holidays.

  6. Dana
    November 27th, 2011 at 6:55 pm

    I’m hoping that someone gives me a gift card to Kiva. I made my first loan a few days ago and I am just itching to lend out more!

  7. Andrea
    November 27th, 2011 at 7:05 pm

    Hoping to improve my health, shun the retail madness, and just enjoy the season with my family and relax with some of my hobbies. That probably makes me pretty uncool. Who the heck cares! I will drink my juice, knit some scarves, play with the kids then on to the shooting range! Happy Holidays!

  8. Kimberly
    November 27th, 2011 at 7:19 pm

    I am hoping for some skates, pads and helmet so I can practice my skating and try out for roller derby

  9. Bianca
    November 27th, 2011 at 7:22 pm

    Are a personal trainer and chef too much to hope for? haha.

  10. Annette
    November 27th, 2011 at 7:58 pm

    I am hoping my family will appreciate the handmade gifts I’m making them this year (and not just think I’m being cheap!) :) As for me, I usually appreciate anything that is returnable!

  11. Ashley
    November 27th, 2011 at 8:16 pm

    During this holiday season, I’m hoping to hug lots of my loved ones and eat endless amounts of pastries!

  12. Sara
    November 27th, 2011 at 8:18 pm

    First off, very lovely gift ideas XD Definitely interesting to see what all is out there to offer!

    Secondly, what I’m hoping for this holiday? Just time to spend with my family, and that my husband doesn’t get too stressed out over work!

  13. Connor
    November 27th, 2011 at 9:24 pm

    I’ve heard rumors floating around the internet that there is a pie of the month club. If so, that’s what I will be asking Santa for this year. Oh, and some Doctor Who swag, but that’s every year :)

  14. yafit
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:16 am

    As much as i don’t celebrate christmas because i’m jewish and i’m celebrating hannuka yes i would like just for once to celebrate christmas and for a special gift as a wrestling true fan i would like to have a 2 wrestlmania tickets, it will be a dream come true :) merry christmas and happy hannuka to everyone

  15. Susan W.
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:35 am

    I am hoping for a winning lottery ticket (aren’t we all?). Barring that I would like a Barnes&Noble gift card to feed my book habit and the energy to make a lot of cookies for my family and friends.

  16. Adriana
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:36 am

    Aw man, my fingers are crossed so hard for a Phenomenauts hoodie or the Girly book set.

    This list is fantastic; been eyeing Dotty the Demon’s Tag Team necklaces myself for potential gifting.

  17. Julie J
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:40 am

    This year my list is very simple, I desire a wonderful day with my son, and family. If I could have anything I would ask for a bunch of new bowls, spatulas, bakeware, and a spring form pan, since I still dont own this staple of baking.

    SideNote:
    Natalie, Thank you for taking time out every year to do this. I find the most amazing, personalized, quirky gifts ever through your insight.

  18. Ashley Pitmon-Putman
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:59 am

    I hope Santa brings me the ability to finally be able to draw the State of Texas, frogs and cars….and have them look like the State of Texas, frogs and cars.

  19. Amanda
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:25 am

    I’m hoping to work less.

  20. Emily
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:33 am

    I am hoping for a tea kettle and a zebra.

  21. Kim
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:39 am

    I’m hoping for my Brian Wilson “fear the beard” Mike the Tiger T-shirt. It’s like awesomeness in a bottle or can or cup. Whichever you prefer.

  22. mike
    November 28th, 2011 at 7:22 am

    I don’t really need anything (though that Andre print is a thing of beauty), but I’d like to be able to get my gentle Mrs. something nice for the holidays. Perhaps she’d like that massive hand bag she’s had her eye on for the last 2 months, or maybe a castle.

  23. Misty
    November 28th, 2011 at 7:33 am

    Love the author jerseys and the comic headbands!

  24. lisa
    November 28th, 2011 at 7:48 am

    Well, i am hoping for a persian cat! =) but im not holding my breath. i already have 3 cats, don’t think my husband will go for a fourth!

  25. Sara
    November 28th, 2011 at 7:52 am

    I’m hoping for a wire whisk, new mixing bowls (colorful ones would be great!), and a record holder of some kind. Seriously, my records are everywhere and I’m terrified that they’ll meet a horrible end. Not terrified enough to do anything about it myself, mind you.

  26. MaryB_HD
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:13 am

    The hot dog print by Betty Turbo is awesome! But I think all her prints are awesome.

  27. MaryB_HD
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:25 am

    And my flour-covered hands need to hold the Bake and Destroy cookbook! Now!

  28. katie killer
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:29 am

    Blake Schwarzenbach. I want Blake Schwarzenbach for Christmas.

  29. AmandaS
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:48 am

    I’m hoping for a chubby, bearded, tattooed manfriend this Christmas. If he comes on his own accord, great, but I’ll accept him hog-tied under my tree.

  30. Lina
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:59 am

    A clue on what to give teenagers besides *cash* or *gift certificates* I’m easy to buy for cause I love anything strange, nerdy, or cooking oriented and if it is all 3 I’m in heaven…

  31. michelle a
    November 28th, 2011 at 9:01 am

    this holiday i hope that cm punk gets to keep his belt so that by the time RAW gets to chicago he is still champ.

  32. Jacqui
    November 28th, 2011 at 9:04 am

    This holiday I am praying to get a new job!!! That would be the ultimate Christmas gift.

  33. Vickie
    November 28th, 2011 at 9:42 am

    Just to spend Christmas with my kids & grandkids,seeing the joy & happiness on their faces. Feeling all the love we have for each other. I wouldnt mind a new coffee maker either.

  34. Jen Forese
    November 28th, 2011 at 9:43 am

    I am hoping for a gift certificate to my fav local comic shop :) If not that then I will accept a gift certificate to my 2nd fav local comic shop :P

  35. Constance Mitchell
    November 28th, 2011 at 9:45 am

    Great Guide as always Natalie!

    For the holidays I want to win one of your giveaways finally, joking serious joking!
    Hmmm I like practical so I have my eye on a new parka!

  36. Hanna
    November 28th, 2011 at 11:07 am

    I am really hoping for my very own kitchen aid mixer! It would be a dream come true :)

  37. Emma
    November 28th, 2011 at 11:33 am

    Bummed I can’t enter the competition as I live in Ireland, so I went and treated myself to the Andre the Giant print.
    Thanks for the ideas, love love.

  38. Stacey
    November 28th, 2011 at 12:14 pm

    I heart your gift guides! A tip for anyone buying the Penguin Postcards, they frame really well! Put multiple in a large frame and voila! book geek pop art.

    I’m hoping my boyfriend will buy me the Pop Chart Lab “Titanic Taxonomy of Wrestler Names” for our living room. You know, to go next to our prints of the Macho King & Sherri. That’s how we roll ;)

  39. Jenna
    November 28th, 2011 at 12:21 pm

    The Bake and Destroy holiday gift guide always rules! Only problem is that I mostly want to buy everything on it for myself haha.
    This holiday I’m pretty much only hoping for disney movies on dvd and to have Christmas eve off work to spend time with family.

  40. Danielle
    November 28th, 2011 at 1:36 pm

    Love the ideas on this gift guide! Much appreciated! As a teacher myself the list your mom gave was spot on except I disagree with the chocolate gift simply because of my allergy to strawberries and I always wind up with chocolate covered strawberries! The gift certificates are a definite must and office supplies RULE. Anyway what do I really want this Christmas is a new computer, cuddles from David, new music, and a tokidoki handbag.

    XOXO,
    Danielle

  41. emily f.
    November 28th, 2011 at 1:48 pm

    Woohoo! I love your yearly gift guide!!! This year I’m crossing my fingers and toes for a new pair of roller skates!!! I’m pretty much naughty all year long, but I’m hoping my hubby will overlook it! ;)

  42. Justin F
    November 28th, 2011 at 2:17 pm

    I’m hoping for a stress-free holiday full of friends.

  43. brad g.
    November 28th, 2011 at 2:22 pm

    This year what I want most is a new car, as mine caught fire and exploded on the streets of Chicago last night. I deliver food for a living, and I really don’t know what I’m going to do right now.

    Sorry about the sob story, but I promise it’s true. Swing by Lawndale & Fullerton and check out the visual proof if necessary.

  44. wtfcupcakes
    November 28th, 2011 at 2:27 pm

    I’m hoping for a marriage proposal (I’ve dropped NEW hints involving black diamonds), but a CM Punk or Undertaker gnome would be rad, I added both to my Wishpot list!

  45. melissa
    November 28th, 2011 at 2:29 pm

    Wow, what a awesome holiday gift guide… thanks for sharing! This year I don’t really want anything, Unless Honky Tonk Man wants to give me his personal fanny pack…

  46. Casey Gillespie
    November 28th, 2011 at 3:03 pm

    For Christmas this year…I’d really like a subscription to the Nightwing comic book series. :)

  47. Austin
    November 28th, 2011 at 4:01 pm

    I am hoping for some cash & relaxation.

  48. Lindsey Spencer
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:08 pm

    I’m drooling over the Lucky Cupcake Hairclips. Like, I had to wipe off my keyboard.

  49. Brittney Luman
    November 28th, 2011 at 5:23 pm

    All I really want for Christmas is a food processor. Since my move I have had to make crusts and spreads in a blender. Its not too bad, but it sure isn’t a Vitamix. Those are too pricey for me or to allow anyone to spend that on me!

  50. Crystal Anderson
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:33 pm

    I’m hoping for a Betty Turbo print… or all of them… looking forward to redecorating the kitchen with her prints all over!!!

  51. Ceres
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:46 pm

    I love all of the teacher gift ideas! I’m thinking of printing it out and sharing it in our staff room : )

  52. Sarah S.
    November 28th, 2011 at 6:59 pm

    I hope that I’ll get something heirloom-y for either christmas or my birthday!

  53. Crystal Conway
    November 28th, 2011 at 8:45 pm

    I wish I could be with my family this Christmas, but I am 3000 miles away and have to work, though I am very grateful to have a job! I could really use a food processor too!

  54. Colleen Harvey
    November 28th, 2011 at 10:33 pm

    Awesome list! I just spent an hour going to all the sites. =D
    I am not going to lie.. I really want a new vacum so I don’t hit myself in the jaw every time I try to get the hose out. It’s totally busted. Pahahaha. Yeah, I am officially old as dirt if I am excited by a new vacum. I guess I need some spice in my life this season as well!! ;)

  55. shawna
    November 28th, 2011 at 10:52 pm

    i want my son to still have the sparkle in his eyes about christmas when christmas is over this year. i really want to hold on to that feeling as long as possible for him. i think its really important to let kids be kids, especially in the way the world is today.

  56. Ashley
    November 28th, 2011 at 11:19 pm

    I’m hoping for a vacation, but I’d settle for a beer.

  57. Angelina mclean
    November 28th, 2011 at 11:27 pm

    At the risk of sounding stupid alls I want for Christmas is the ability to stop making fun of those who are in my eyes mentally challenged! By that statement I don’t mean handi capped, just stupid idiot people. That’s all.

  58. Mia
    November 29th, 2011 at 12:25 am

    i am desperately hoping for something that does not suck this Christmas. Or really, anything at all. Last year I got new brakes. Sigh.

  59. sharon Vitullo
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:06 am

    I am hoping for anything as we just got a major plumbing bill and the hubby just cancelled Christmas :0(

  60. Maxine
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:13 am

    All I really want is a pair of earmuffs. And maybe some stuff to put on my walls.

  61. Kim
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:15 am

    All I want to Christmas is the nerve to get on a plane to go to my cousins surprise birthday party.

  62. Teri
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:29 am

    All I want for Christmas is a week off to spend with my family.

  63. Layla
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:33 am

    I’m hoping for snow! Hey, I’m in the south.

  64. Ashley
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:39 am

    For Christmas this year I am hoping for the funds for my next tattoo adventure. I would also like to get my hands on the Walking Dead and Hobbit glasses I have seen at my comic book shop.

  65. Chrystal
    November 29th, 2011 at 7:00 am

    This year I’m truly hoping for less crap and more from the heart. And a portable sewing machine!

  66. jonquil
    November 29th, 2011 at 7:00 am

    I am hoping for 5 yards of bottom-weight fabric in a deep pine green or fog-grey material so that I can whip up a walking skirt.

  67. Quyen
    November 29th, 2011 at 7:01 am

    My mom actually bought me what I wanted this past weekend, a Kitchenaid pro mixer! Now I need some new cookbooks and baking supplies to go with it. Happy holidays!

  68. Rachael
    November 29th, 2011 at 7:37 am

    Due to living way far away from my family in Texas, I’ve actually already had my Christmas gifts while I was in town for Thanksgiving. I’m saving up for a new tattoo for myself though – stylized bluebonnets to represent my Texas heritage – so I suppose you could say that I’m hoping for a tattoo for my joint Christmas/birthday present. :D

  69. dixie o'falldrunks
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:00 am

    well, karma paid someone who needed it a long awaited visit, so i’m pretty smug for christmas already… i’m always telling king o’falldrunks though, that if he really loved me he’d buy me more andre the giant stuff…

  70. Alissa
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:11 am

    Love the guide. One of my friends is a Wanna-be Chicagoan so I’ve got her covered now! She’s going to absolutely freak over the froze pizza DIY kit!!

    I am hoping to magically have enough money for KitchenAid Professional 600 Series 6-Quart Stand Mixer. Because it’s freaking beautiful. I also want all the fancy pants attachments like the side swipe. Oh and the Mixer Bible.

    Also some new paints and canvases would be lovely. I’m teeming with ideas but am ever so low on materials.

  71. Eddie
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:18 am

    I’m hoping I dropped enough hints that I want one of those awesome masked luchador flasks. If I don’t get one, somebody will get an atomic drop.

  72. Tater
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:59 am

    I am honestly just hoping for some down time with my dog and my main squeeze!

    (But some Kitchenaid mixer attachments wouldn’t hurt…)

  73. Jen H.
    November 29th, 2011 at 9:39 am

    I am hoping one of santa’s elves will help me out and press a magical delete key that will wipe out all of my medical bills!!!

  74. Nicole
    November 29th, 2011 at 9:55 am

    Loving the list! I am hoping to get a butterfly garden so I can start planting in the spring in honor of my son who passed away! I love butterflies!

  75. Kit
    November 29th, 2011 at 10:15 am

    I’m hoping to reconnect with an uncle I haven’t seen since the age of five or six; bumped into him quite randomly on Facebook just before Thanksgiving, & messaged — so weird, & it’s been so long. Also, about half of this damn gift guide! ^^;;

  76. eryn marie
    November 29th, 2011 at 11:39 am

    i am hoping for new sheet pans, a peterbald kitten, and someone to magically pay all my bills. I am anticipating sheet pans.

  77. Jenny
    November 29th, 2011 at 3:03 pm

    I am hoping for my mom and I to spend Christmas together. My dad passed away last month and spending Thanksgiving without my dad or my mom was very, very hard. We live in different states so I’m hoping we can work it out.

  78. Denise
    November 29th, 2011 at 3:58 pm

    I am really hoping for an iPad. I’ve dropped enough subtle and not so subtle hints, but somehow I think he’ll still buy me the same sort of useless crap he’s bought me year after year :)

  79. Jenn J
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:05 pm

    All I want for Christmas is a new Governor! P.S. I live in Wisconsin

  80. Mayra
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:12 pm

    Hoping for a KitchenAid mixer not all the crap mixers that keep piling up in my kitchen from last holidays or my birthday.

  81. Amy V
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:15 pm

    All I want is for my twin nephews to be born healthy so I can start buying them dinosaur things!!

  82. Tyler
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:18 pm

    I just got an Xbox 360 so I’m hoping for some games and accessories.

  83. rebajohnst
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:23 pm

    I am looking forward to spending time with family, baking and using my new portable dishwasher!

  84. Lynn Banks
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:24 pm

    I’m hoping for a hot, tall, employed man! ;-) . Oh and world peace :-)

  85. Shelby
    November 29th, 2011 at 4:33 pm

    All I want this year is to stop hurting. Emo, yes. But honest.

    I’d settle for some new clothes.

  86. Beka M
    November 29th, 2011 at 5:09 pm

    I’m hoping for a vegan cookbook and maybe some cake decorating supplies.

  87. rebecca
    November 29th, 2011 at 5:35 pm

    What a great gift guide! This year, I’m just hoping I can stick to my diet over the holidays. Seriously.

  88. Meg
    November 29th, 2011 at 5:37 pm

    I’m hoping Ian’s finally decides to deliver to Michigan for some Christmas eve pizza!

    If that doesn’t happen, I’m hoping for a surprise visit from my mom for Christmas. I can never get back to Illinois for the holidays and it stinks. Her coming up here would be perfect.

  89. Nicole
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:06 pm

    Hummm. .I want a kindle fire or anything to bake with. Oh and of course anything I can win here:-)

  90. Jennifer
    November 29th, 2011 at 6:26 pm

    I love your gift guides! My mom absolutely adored her Deviled Egg soap I got her from your Mother’s Day gift guide. =D I have recently taken up Roller Derby, & while I’ve always loved the sport, I never thought for a single second my ‘can’t walk on her own flat feet without tripping’ could get on a pair of roller skates. Until my good friend Kate pretty much MADE me try it. I’m one of those people who gives everything a try, but usually fails epically at it, but I didn’t fail, I’m getting better, shockingly quick. So for Christmas this year I’ve asked for a pair of Rebel Sure Grip Skates, because rental skates have got to go! & some new 187 pads wouldn’t hurt either.

  91. Jen
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:15 pm

    I LOVE the sports jerseys for book nerds! I’ll be getting one for my sister and one for me :) As for what I want for Christmas… really, I’d just be happy to have a nice, relaxing three-day weekend with friends and family around.

  92. taraophotos
    November 29th, 2011 at 8:18 pm

    I am hoping for a brand new Canon 5D Mark II. But since that costs about as much as my first born son, I will love whatever my fella decides to chose for me, because he always picks really good gifts since he knows me so well <3

    xoxo,
    Tara O.

  93. Theo
    November 30th, 2011 at 12:23 am

    I’m hoping for the time to spend a few hours getting flour all over every surface in my apartment. (And possibly Blake Schwarzenbach, but, uh, don’t tell my boyfriend.)

  94. Rachel
    November 30th, 2011 at 12:55 am

    I am hoping that my father’s health stabilizes, so that I can see him when I go home after Christmas.

  95. Pris
    November 30th, 2011 at 12:58 am

    Perfect lists!! I’m hoping for all the prizes but I can settle for just a Betty Turbo print or five…!!!!

  96. Brandon
    November 30th, 2011 at 1:39 am

    I have everything i want haha i have family, friends, and I am engaged to the most beautiful girl in the world (which happened in Chicago btw ) But I could REALLY REALLY use a Bret Hart necklace or an Andre print!! ;)

  97. Jill Hannah
    November 30th, 2011 at 7:49 am

    I’m hoping for good health for everyone in my life and (to be a bit greedier) at least one awesome necklace. Is that so wrong?

  98. sarah k.
    November 30th, 2011 at 8:54 am

    I want to go home for Christmas (Portland, OR.) I miss my friends and family and Elvis and afro duck and the rain and, well….everything! I love your prints!

  99. Jamie Stocker
    November 30th, 2011 at 8:55 am

    Wow fantastic stuff

  100. Reba
    November 30th, 2011 at 9:37 am

    All I want for Christmas is for my etsy shop to take off and be as successful as the amazing Betty Turbo shop!
    and like a million Betty Turbo prints :)

  101. Jennifer
    November 30th, 2011 at 9:38 am

    plenty of things i need but something i actually want…a laptop. i wont be getting one but thats okay. the smiles on my kids faces when they see their presents under the tree will be so much better!

  102. Lindsay Dudzick
    November 30th, 2011 at 11:37 am

    I’m hoping my husband will take the hint and get me my fave Betty Turbo print (Rocky offering food to Adrian). But if I win the giveaway, I won’t have to worry! :)

  103. Melissa Calvin
    November 30th, 2011 at 11:50 am

    I’m really hoping to win the baking mixes – I’ve never seen em’ before. Thanks!

  104. Keila Valdes
    November 30th, 2011 at 2:43 pm

    I’m hoping for a miracle to help make this year’s Christmas special for my son. Times are hard and my husband and I try all we can to make ends meet. I am however thankful hubby’s home for the holidays and not deployed or training. =)

  105. Paul Arrand Rodgers
    November 30th, 2011 at 3:23 pm

    The Mutoh DVD sounds awesome.

  106. Miranda
    November 30th, 2011 at 11:18 pm

    Honestly, I’m hoping for that Bret Hart necklace. :)

  107. Herschel Roxbury
    December 1st, 2011 at 4:43 am

    i really like action movies and my idol is none other than Gerard Butler. this guy actually rocks“

  108. Claire
    December 1st, 2011 at 5:04 pm

    This year i’m hoping that me and my mam can enjoy ourselves like my dad would want us to.

  109. Keys Millionie
    December 1st, 2011 at 5:07 pm

    I’m hoping my friend that I haven’t see in over a year is able to visit. That would be amazing.

  110. KarenZ
    December 1st, 2011 at 7:01 pm

    I hope that my family and friends are healthy, but I think I’m the sickest one out of them all. I mean I just get colds every month or something.

  111. GoGoGadgetTiff
    December 2nd, 2011 at 5:50 am

    I want a new job and a trip to Stockholm, Oslo or St Petersberg.

  112. Natalie
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:06 am

    I’m hoping for some new spices. I just realized I’ve had mine since my son was a baby…and he’s in third grade now. GROSS! LOL Thanks for the great giveaway!

  113. Annie
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:07 am

    This Xmas, hubby and I are both just asking for baby things. :) Our little guy (first-time parents! We couldn’t be more proud. And excited. And in love. ;) ) is 7 weeks old. He doesn’t really need anything else, but I’m hoping for some cute winter gear, a few toys, and maybe some books to plump up his collection (mostly books from when my brothers and I were wee ones!). I think I’m gonna have to check out threadless’ kids section, tho. I had no idea they made stuff for the little ‘uns!

    Thanks for the sweet giveaways, and as always, for your fun gift ideas!

  114. Taylor
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:33 am

    I am hoping I get a wireless printer!! It is such a pain to hook my laptop to the printer! Love ur giveaways! So awesome!

  115. Cecily
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:38 am

    I’m hoping for cookbooks. you can never have to many.

  116. Angechilads
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:46 am

    I’m hoping santa puts a big wad of cash in my stocking. I’d also love some Betty Turbo artwork and a new bike. Thank you for the giveaway!

  117. cneill
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:46 am

    vodka.

  118. Mandi Lynne
    December 2nd, 2011 at 8:50 am

    I am hoping someone will ask to see my list already… so who knows what I’m going to get!

    More so, I’m hoping my 2 year old will finally care about presents and not just the paper and bows like she was into last year!

  119. Lorene
    December 2nd, 2011 at 9:24 am

    i’m hoping that i win the lottery. otherwise, i think i’ll have to get a job. NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! I love being a stay-at-home mom!

  120. Danielle
    December 2nd, 2011 at 9:25 am

    This holiday, I’m hoping that I can finally find a safe, economical toy that will hold my 14 mo old’s attention for more than 3 seconds and will withstand his tantrums!

    After an 11 year struggle, I am getting my undergraduate degree this month. Its been my wish/goal to graduate college since I was a very young academic. I’m so thankful for those who have supported me and pushed me through, and I am very proud of myself!

  121. Joanna
    December 2nd, 2011 at 12:41 pm

    I’m hoping for a plane ticket to see my friends on the East Coast!

    Joanna

  122. Sourkraut
    December 2nd, 2011 at 12:51 pm

    Yay! I’m not too late to enter. I’m hoping for a trip to NYC to see Alan Rickman on Broadway. I will be sure to pack my drool bucket in case I go. Love that guy.

  123. Michelle
    December 2nd, 2011 at 3:01 pm

    I’m hoping for a sweet handmade journal.

  124. Audrey
    December 2nd, 2011 at 5:41 pm

    This christmas, I’m just really hoping my best friend likes what i’m getting him. I don’t care about what I get; I just want to see a beaming smile on his face.

  125. girldust
    December 2nd, 2011 at 6:24 pm

    I’m looking forward to actually getting to spend the holiday with everyone I care about. This year my boyfriend will be HOME and we’re splitting Christmas with our families. I can’t even wait.

  126. jen
    December 2nd, 2011 at 7:43 pm

    I am hoping to be a winner. :o )

  127. Nicole
    December 3rd, 2011 at 2:11 am

    All I want for Christmas is a better 2012. This year was absolutely horrible.

  128. Ash
    December 3rd, 2011 at 3:53 am

    This year I hope our little family has a home of our own again (especially miss my own kitchen).

  129. Chris
    December 3rd, 2011 at 10:40 am

    I’m hoping for a mandoline.

  130. Vickie
    December 3rd, 2011 at 3:59 pm

    Id love to win anything. I never win contest & whatever I won,if I did would be used for christmas presents & not for myself!

  131. whitney
    December 3rd, 2011 at 4:07 pm

    I’m hoping for my inlaws to get snowed in so i don’t have to see them for the holidays…… :) but seriously i’m hoping for my new mixer!

  132. Nicole
    December 3rd, 2011 at 6:16 pm

    I always want aprons, cookbooks and anything else I can use in the kitchen. WIN

  133. Lydia Alexis
    December 3rd, 2011 at 6:17 pm

    I’m hoping for Lucky Cupcake Bows (:

  134. Susan Lord
    December 3rd, 2011 at 6:54 pm

    Im hoping for Lucky Cupcake bows for me and my DD and a wall fireplace from my hubby :-)

  135. carrie
    December 3rd, 2011 at 10:08 pm

    I want healthy children for christmas

  136. Jennifer K.
    December 4th, 2011 at 6:38 am

    I am SO hoping for a KitchenAid Pro Mixer! :) (Fingers crossed)

  137. Joanna
    December 4th, 2011 at 8:11 am

    My son has asthma and we had to spend last Christmas in the Hospitals so my hope this year is that he will be healthy and be able to spend the holiday with his family :-)

  138. Sarah
    December 4th, 2011 at 3:48 pm

    All I want for Christmas is a new tattoo. And maybe those Bake and Destroy mugs. (:

  139. Cheryl Ann
    December 4th, 2011 at 4:22 pm

    I just want to be able to spend the holiday with my fiance

  140. Michael Honscar
    December 4th, 2011 at 4:27 pm

    Honestly,I’d wish for time with my family as I haven’t seen any of them in over 12 years. Sadly,that’s not likeyl to happen so instead I’ll just wish for my memories to remind me what the holidays are for.

  141. Mina Harms
    December 4th, 2011 at 4:31 pm

    I am hoping that the speech therapy my Autistic twins are going through finally hits a breakthrough and that I can hear “I love you Mommy” … that would make the best holiday season for me.

  142. Alice
    December 4th, 2011 at 4:46 pm

    I’m really hoping to stay in shape over the holidays. I’ve never succeeded, because being together with my family means a ton of food.

    Gift wise, the Planet Earth DVDs would be way rad.

  143. Lynette
    December 4th, 2011 at 5:54 pm

    I’m hoping for chocolate and sex. Yup. That sums it up.

  144. Wenona
    December 4th, 2011 at 5:56 pm

    I want a Kindle Fire or an Orange Kitchen Aid stand mixer would totally rock my Christmas but since Im the mommy I do the Santa-ing around here. So I would love anything at all,…..like a gift certificate for a pedicure!

  145. Ricardo Garcia
    December 4th, 2011 at 6:26 pm

    All I want for Christmas is the courage to be myself.

  146. Soledad Godina
    December 4th, 2011 at 6:53 pm

    Im hoping I can trust myself to make better decisions for my future.

  147. Sandy B
    December 5th, 2011 at 6:57 am

    I’m hoping for a Cakespy print… but most likely I will be buying it for myself ;)

  148. rhonda
    December 6th, 2011 at 9:26 am

    I am so hoping for Circa Ceramics pink eraser mug as a gift.