1.   Gadgets and appliances like stand mixers, blenders and food processors were nonexistent.

2.   In a stand mixer or by hand, cream the butter, sugar and salt until fluffy.

3.   In a stand mixer or by hand, thoroughly cream the butter.

4.   In bowl of a stand mixer, using wire whip attachment or in a mixing bowl using a hand-held mixer, whip cream until frothy.

5.   Target stores noted that George Foreman grills, Kitchenaid stand mixers and Rival slow cookers were all big sellers this season.

6.   Wal-Mart spokesman Rob Phillips confirmed that indoor grills, stand mixers and blenders were big sellers there.

7.   You can make muffins the old-fashioned way, using arm power and a wooden spoon, or you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.