Pink Slip Sugar Cookie Bars

So I got a layoff notice today. You'd think after 8 years of teaching I'd have enough seniority to not be bothered by these kinds of shenanigans. No such luck. Realistically, I think I'm probably going to be fine. This is just a preliminary notice, but, don't get me wrong, it's STILL lame.
This notice, commonly referred to as a 'pink slip,' inspired these cute treats. No, I'm not celebrating my pending unemployment, but I thought the other 'pink-slipped' teachers at my school could use a little something to sweeten up their day, because getting that letter is such a downer. And, unlike me, a few of their positions really are on the chopping block.
This recipe is so much like sugar cookies (not quite cookie, but not quite cake either!), but without the rolling, cutting and detailed frosting part. I do love making a sugar cookie, but there's not always time for that.
So, here's a great alternative: all of the sugar cookie goodness in bar form. In fact, they were a bit reminiscent of those awfully tempting Lofthouse cookies you see at the grocery store. Except, they're HOMEMADE so they're way better!
I used a 10x15 pan which yielded a rather thick bar. My in-house food critic (that would be Nate) said he thought the thickness was perfect, but I might use a larger pan that 'thins' them out just a little.

Sugar Cookie Bars

1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
5 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp soda

Frosting:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 tsp vanilla
pinch of salt
4 cups powdered sugar
5 tablespoons milk
food coloring (if desired)

Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each egg. Add vanilla & mix well. In a separate bowl combine flour, salt & soda & stir with a whisk to combine. Add to wet mixture and mix just until combined. Spread on a greased baking sheet (I used a 10x 15, but maybe 13 x 18 would be better).

Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 min, until light golden brown or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Frosting: Combine butter and shortening until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla and salt. Add powdered sugar in 1-2 cup increments until combined. Then add milk and food coloring mix until smooth and spreading consistency. I like to beat frosting for at least 5 minutes so it's light and fluffy.