Christmas Gifts (for others and for yourself)

Back in the good old days, when I was writing a weekly column for The News and Record, I always posted a recommended gifts column about this time every year. Since I don't have that venue anymore, I'll provide a general recommendation here: my favorite place for food and cooking related purchases is The Extra Ingredient in Friendly Shopping Center. If they don't have it, you don't need it! Also, take a look at Chad Smith's website, GuilfordHillSpice.com. He blends salt-free spices, which are sold at The Extra Ingredient as well as online, and he is an excellent waiter at Salvino, one of my favorite area restaurants. Consider a gift certficate from a local restaurant as a gift!