So what’s on your schedule for the weekend? It’s Ann Kelly, and here in Kelly’s Kitchen, we know that there’s going to be a lot of planning going on for next week’s tax free weekend for back to school shopping. Do you know exactly what falls under that tax free status? Check out http://singleparents.about.com/od/taxfreeholidays/qt/FL.htm, and get some excellent ideas for getting the most from your hard earned dollar. And remember to eat a good breakfast with the family before heading out. It’s way too easy to stop and grab something quick that may not be the best for you.  Another very helpful way to get more for your money is www.pocketyourdollars.com. Carrie Rocha’s site helps us make a lot of sense out of the extreme couponing craze, and why there’s more than one to get a better deal. You can hear from Carrie herself if you check back with us on Monday!

THESE BROWNIES DO WHAT?

I made a quick stop at the gas station to fill up, and went in for a bottle of water, and found what looked like brownies at checkout. Well…not exactly something that would come out of Kelly’s Kitchen. You seen them in the news over the last couple of days, and please don’t let the kids grab one of these for a snack. They’re marketed under a few different names, but the bottom line is that they contain melatonin. Many people use that as a sleep aid, but the FDA says it’s never been approved as a safe food additive. I found a warning, in extremely small print, that said it is not safe for children, and a few stores say they won’t sell to anyone under 18. So we’ll see where this goes.

WINE AND WISHES AT THE GRAPE

A little heads up for a delicious event coming up on August 17^th to support the work of Granted Wishes. I can tell you personally after speaking with founder Brian Lambert and hearing his story that Granted Wishes is making a great difference in the lives of the adult and elderly right here in Tampa Bay that deal with loneliness and depression. Wine & Wishes 2011 | Granted Wishes has all the information.

I’m always looking for your feedback at 949comments@coxtampa.com. Do you know about a great cooking class, a delicious fund raiser, or would you like to share a recipe? It’s all good in Kelly’s Kitchen!

Words of Wisdom from Kelly’s Kitchen:

There is little chance that meteorologists can solve the mysteries of weather until they gain an understanding of the mutual attraction of rain and weekends.  ~Arnot Sheppard