For the 10th Day of Cathy’s Countdown Before Christmas, here’s a way to save money and time on your holiday decorations. Right now, right at this very minute, Hobby Lobby arts and crafts stores are selling a big chunk of their Christmas home decor at 50 percent off. That is a thing of joy, for sure. Ornaments, trees, table ware, linens, kitchen items, figurines, gift wrapping, craft items,  lights — half price. Fifty percent off through Saturday, Dec. 20. I don’t know if this is standard practice or something different for this year, but I’m not questioning. Aren’t you glad you waited until the last minute to do your decorating and plan your party, no matter what your mother said? Our local store was packed this morning as word spread and shoppers couldn’t wait to scoop up the bargains.  Listen, with all due respect, this beats the 50-percent-off-all-old-and-wilted poinsettias-sale I’ve seen in other chain stores. The Web site http://www.hobbylobby.com says there are Hobby Lobby stores in 33 states — basically the middle of the nation. If you don’t know what to expect, Hobby Lobby is a sort of Pier One plus Michael’s plus Hancock Fabrics with scrapbooking and art-supply stores mixed in. Plus, you will find your former co-worker you haven’t seen for three years searching the stationery aisle for invitations to her son’s birthday party and you didn’t even know she had kids. You’re welcome.

Check back for Day No. 11 in Cathy’s 12 Days of Christmas Countdown — an easy  recipe that’s perfect for gifts.

But while you're bargain-hunting, remember to obey the Hobby Lobby rules as you wander around other less-populated areas of the store.