It’s time to be festive, right?

So why spend time this holiday season squabbling with cousin Mabel over that $11 she still owes you from 1974?

While that luscious roast is in the oven, here are my top 10 holiday entertaining tips to pass the time with the fam INSTEAD of arguing:

1. Drink wine.
2. Talk about how big the kids are getting.
3. Brag about the 92 Billy got in Home Ec (I believe they call it “Skills For Living” now. :))
4. Drink more wine.
5. Discuss the menu so anticipation can build.
6. Avoid the topic of politics at all costs.
7. Lay out your plans to make 2014 “YOUR YEAR.”
8. Drink some more.
9. Brag about your kids again (no one will remember – see #1, 4 & 8).
10. Be sure to tell your loved ones how happy you are that you are together!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Oh, autumn, how I love thee!

This time of year makes me want to break out all the yummy fall recipes that make us feel warm and cozy inside.

And this autumn recipe is a wonderful way to spend a chilly fall evening — Baked Stuffed Squash with Beef, Black Beans and Chili Seasonings.

Anything baked at this time of year is absolutely perfect to me. And baked beef? Perfecto!!!

This one comes to us from SouthernFood.About.com’s “Top 15 Fall Recipes” collection. Click here to peruse it and find other yummy fall fare like pork loin, sweet and tart pot roast and beef stew with red wine.

Try them all and you’ll be covered this fall!

Photo courtesy of Diana Rattray via About.com.

Or is it . . . Merry Christmas, Roast!

Either way, you can be sure to find something your heart desires in Saveur.com‘s photo gallery of “34 impressive, satisfying roasts.”

My favorite is the Rosemary-Rubbed Beef Tenderloin above. Subtle, tender, juicy. Perfect.

But you can find your favorite among the delectable items like Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding and Prime Rib.

Mmmmmm!

It’s fun to just click through the gorgeous photos and drool.

Have a very merry, Christmas, everyone!

Photo courtesy of Todd Coleman via Saveur.com.