If you're like me, you're rushing around, trying to get all of your holiday shopping done and searching for the perfect gifts for all the special people in your life.

Well if so, I've got a tip for making those perfect gifts even better. Make them Michigan products.

That's what I'm doing, and let me tell you – there are some great reasons to keep your holiday spending close to home.

First of all, it's good for our economy. Did you know that every dollar spent locally impacts three to seven different local businesses before that same dollar leaves the Michigan economy? That helps ensure a great holiday season not only for the loved ones in our lives, but also for our favorite local businesses and our neighbors who work there.

And with all the concerns about safety of toys and other imported products, when you choose Michigan, you can rest assured knowing that you're getting some of the safest, best quality merchandise and foods around.

Not only that, instead of giving the same items from the same stores that are all over the country, a gift from Michigan is unique. What a perfect way to give those who aren't fortunate enough to live here in Michigan a little taste of what we're all about.

The great news is that thanks to the Internet, it's now easier than ever to give Michigan gifts. For example, you can buy and ship cherry pies from up north, cheese from Pinconning, or Pewabic Pottery from Detroit. You can even order pasties direct from the U.P., and you can do it right from the comfort of your home and without having to deal with any of the crowds or traffic.

Here are a couple of Web sites where you can find links to great Michigan gift ideas: www.buymichiganproducts.com and www.buymichigannow.com.

And when your shopping is done, why not ring in the New Year – responsibly, of course – with a pint of Bell's Best Brown Ale from Kalamazoo or a glass of Mawby sparkling wine from the Leelanau Peninsula, or a glass of good cheer from any of the terrific wineries and craft breweries that we're blessed to have right here in Michigan! You can check out www.michiganwines.com for more information about that.

So no matter how you plan to celebrate the joy of this magical season, I hope this year you'll join me in making it a Michigan holiday.

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