Wow, wow, wow! It’s Christmas week! Can you believe it?

How did we get here? It seems like it was just summer and now it’s holiday time. The older I get, the faster time seems to fly. But I’m so happy to have arrived at this wonderful time of year.

It kind of sneaks up on us sometimes, though. And then we head into full-on panic mode. The gifts! The preparation! The food menu! The guest accommodations!

It can get overwhelming. But let’s solve one issue at a time – gifts.

Still need items for loved ones or co-workers? You’re not alone. So many of us can’t make time for shopping until this week. And that’s okay!

Don’t sweat it. You still have a multitude of options.

If you’re looking to spend a bit more on special people or work colleagues (you know, to make a good impression) I’ve got some great ideas.

Gourmet gifts are my go-to. And there are some beautiful choices under $200. Check it out!

1. Filet Mignon. Steaks are always a treat, and these delicious and tender filets are the real deal.
2. Prime Rib. Give them something that is visually pleasing as well as absolutely tasty. Prime rib just says, “CLASS.”
3. Steak and Lobster Tails. This combo is truly elegant and makes such a great statement. I mean, it’s lobster!

And don’t forget, you can always gift them a gift card of any amount and let them choose their own gourmet gifts. That’s ALWAYS a winner.

If you wait until the VERY last minute, there’s even an e-gift certificate that you can purchase and send via e-mail immediately. See? There’s always a solution.

Check that off your list.

And now that you’ve solved that issue, I hope your holidays are spent enjoying the people you love while enjoying some delicious food.

It’s officially holiday time! Have you finished YOUR shopping? I know, I know. Everyone is asking that question. It’s a legitimate question, though.

So have you?

If you’re like me, you think you’ve finished but there’s always someone nice you forgot. We’re crazy busy these days.

Or maybe you haven’t even started. Hey, that’s cool. No one wins a prize if they finish first. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

So if I may, might I make a suggestion to help you finish up that list?

Gourmet food!

Everybody enjoys food. Seriously. So why not gift them something they’ll appreciate? Steaks fall into this category quite nicely.

Here are some gourmet gift ideas under $100:

1. Ever tried Crown Filet Mignon™? It’s cut thicker so it’s tall and juicy and very impressive. They’ll love it!
2. How about Bone-in Tenderloin Filet? The bone adds fantastic flavor and creates a gorgeous presentation. This makes YOU look good.
3. Kansas City Strip Steaks. They’re a great gift for those who want something hearty and tender.

There are all types of steak that would fit into the under $100 category, but there are lots of other gourmet gifts that are fantastic, too. Steak is not the only option – just my favorite!

How about a beautiful cutting board for the at-home chef?

Or a Prime Rib Roast or Whole Turkey?

Rack of Lamb is a definite gourmet gift that they will remember for years to come.

How about some very nice steak knives? You know, to go along with all those steaks.

There are many, many choices in this category. Need more inspiration? Check out this Gift Guide for gourmet gifts under $100. There’s sure to be something for everyone on your list.

You really can’t go wrong with the gift of good taste!

We’ve arrived here at holiday time and there seems to be some confusion about proper holiday gift etiquette.

So what are the DOs and DON’Ts of gift giving?

Most of the time, common sense will prevail in these situations. But some forethought – however small – might just be your best friend at this time of year.

Trust me.

Number one:  You never want to leave anyone out. Going over to Cousin Verne’s house to exchange Christmas gifts? Make sure to ask exactly WHO will be in attendance.

You don’t want Uncle Larry to sneak up on you when you assumed he would be in Detroit this year. Ask. Then, ask again. Just to be sure.

But to be extra, EXTRA sure, bring along some additional Christmas steaks to give as host/hostess gifts and to those whose appearance is a mystery to you.

Oh, hey Larry. Didn’t see you over there. What a nice surprise! Enjoy these steaks…

Number two:  Is a knitted toilet paper holder really the best choice for holiday gifting?

Miss Manners would say not.

Again, the gift of gourmet edibles is always a smart choice. Everyone has to eat, so why not make it enjoyable? People really appreciate good food. It’s universal.

And it’s something everyone in the family can agree on. Those topics may be few and far between. So bask in them and keep directing the conversation back to neutral topics.

Number three:  When RECEIVING a gift, always be grateful. Even if you are wishing it was something delicious in return – and it’s not. At least they were thinking of you when picking out that potholder. Be gracious.

But I don’t have to tell you that, right?

Most of all, let’s just treat each other with kindness this holiday season. That’s the best etiquette tip of all.

Happy holidays, everybody!