Most holiday gift orders must be made this by next week, are you set?

Posted by Jacqueline Church Dec 5, 2008

I have decided this year - more than ever - it's not about stuff. Never should be the purpose of holidays, but let's really take this to heart today.

Here are some ideas for how:

1. Focus on what's important

2. Make any gifts useful, practical gifts

3. Consumables are always appreciated

4. Books for cooks - you can't go wrong...

Now, to get you started:

Here's a whole shelf full of books I've reviewed here, books I've reviewed elsewhere, books I've been given, lent or picked up along the way...at least the ones that I recommend, among them:

• Fish Without a Doubt - Chef Rick Moonen's fantastic fish bible. Gourmet Magazine's #1 pick.
• 660 Curries - like a gateway to India, or maybe a gateway drug! I've gotten hooked. Even toasting and grinding my own garam masala now!
• Gumbo Tales - Sara Roahen's moving tale of a city that charmed her, and me.

In honor of the repeal of Prohibition, I'd say it's high time for a cocktail. C'mon it's 5 o'clock somewhere...

Why not make a Sazerac? Sit down with my tips and make youreself a nice old list for Santa.

Meanwhile, I'm hard at work on more practical and fun gift ideas...

Spice it up with a little "porn for women" perhaps? Must see it to believe it....relax, it's not X rated, I promise...actually could be a fun gift...more on the way!