This lists kicks off my monthly "Fabulous Frolic, Finds and Fundraisers" in the Houston area. I am so enthralled with the many amazing cultural, culinary and philanthropic opportunities available that I had to start my own version of Oprah's Favorite Things.

Let's call it Deborah’s Favorite Things.

Casa Dragones Tequila

For the most discerning tequila drinker, the limited-edition bottle is signed and numbered by hand and contains a perfect sipping tequila. As a gift, it can be etched with recipient’s name or signed with a message on the stylish blue box. It is 100 percent blue agave Joven tequila defined by a delicate blend of platinum and extra Anejo tequila. Incidentally, this was also on Oprah's 2012 list of Favorite Things.

DJ Elle Morgan

This 12-year-old is a phenom in the disc jockey world. I am in complete awe of her mad mixing music skills. Elle plays regularly at hot spots such as Hughes Hangar, Rich’s and Café Europe as well as at private parties and events around the country. She has even worked with will.i.am of Black Eyed Peas fame.

Poparazzi’s Gourmet Popcorn

I am always looking for unique ideas for my events and recently found Poparazzi’s Gourmet Popcorn, which has more than 100 different varieties of popcorn flavors. Jackie, the owner, does a great job pairing flavors with the theme. Great for weddings and especially social events. So fun and so yummy!

Belly Dancing

I have a personal obsession with this great way to burn calories. Teachers like Moya Varner at Sirrom Studios are extremely passionate about this old-world traditional dance. There are many classes each week and if you are like me and want more focused training, they have experienced teachers to provide private lessons. You will be shaking your hips and clasping your zills in no time at all.

Damian's Cucina Italiana

How exciting for this Houston restaurant that they are celebrating 30 years in business. In honor of that they will be offering year-long specials including, starting in January, a three-course dinner menu for $30.

The restaurant, located on Smith Street in Midtown, has a great private venue space that can seat up to 140 people. They are very smart to offer a theater shuttle bus that can deliver you right to the door of Wortham Center, Jones Hall and the Alley Theatre. Pair dinner with theater tickets and an overnight stay at the Hotel Icon and you have a great night out.

Platinum Motor Cars

With a rental inventory ranging from all types of cars including Maybachs, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, limousines and Bentleys, Platinum Motor Cars is a fun way to place yourself in the lap of luxury (if only for a little while). The cars are located outside the Hotel Zaza but can be delivered for a fee anywhere in Texas. Prices range from the $300s to the $1700s.

Grant Manier

This young entrepreneur is an author, artist and autism advocate. What astounds me about him is his unbelievable ability to turn his disability into amazing works of art. He doesn’t paint in the traditional sense. He paints by paper. Each work of art contains 1,000 to more than 6,000 cut or torn pieces of recycled paper.

Recently, he collaborated with Houston Texans linebacker Connor Barwin on a piece that will be auctioned off at the Museum of Cultural Arts Houston Gala in January. Pictures don’t do his work justice; you have to see it to understand how very cool it is.

So there you have it, my selection of some of the city's best. Of course, I know I haven’t even touched the surface of things to do and see in this city but I hope this list will keep you busy for the month of December. Wishing you Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year.