Certain periods and seasons of life evoke childhood memories.  Christmas is one such season.  I remember how much I enjoyed shopping with my mom.  Every year we’d get up before dark (hehe) and go Christmas shopping on Black Friday.  The crowds, the early morning coffee (once I got old enough), the excitement of seeing holiday decor all over the mall…I’ll cherish those memories forever.

And every year we’d have a list…one for “family,” one for “friends,” one for “co-workers” and one for us.  One of the stores we’d go to every year was Hickory Farms.  During this season, they set up a variety of holiday locations in malls across the country to allow you the opportunity to go in and experience all they have to offer for gourmet entertaining.   I always remember the aroma of smoked meat and cheeses when I walked into the store.  We’ve been purchasing their gift baskets for friends, family, and co-workers for years.  I don’t know a single person who doesn’t appreciate a gift that includes food.

If you’ve never been to their store or site, you may think that their selection includes nothing more than meats and cheeses.  You might be surprised to find fruit, nut, and chocolate-themed baskets and boxes, in gorgeous (and funcitonal) displays like photo boxes, reusable tins and baskets, snack coolers, and more.

We received a Hickory Handyman Toolbag, courtesy of Mom Central and Hickory Farms.  I had to hold my husband back before diving into it (I need a picture don’t I?).  Finally, a gift for the men in our lives!  We’ll actually be saving this for Thanksgiving and Christmas since our celebrations are going to be in our home (I can’t fathom traveling anywhere at 8 months pregnant).

Not only are the meats, cheeses, and crackers yummy (I’ve had them so many times over the years), the bag is something my husband can actually USE when the holidays are over. My favorite is the Gouda!

For a limited time, Hickory Farms will donate $5 to Share Our Strength for each Party Planner Gift Box sold.  The organization works to end hunger in America.  Another wonderful thing the company is doing is providing free miliatry shipping for 40 of their gift items.  It’s a great way to bring a little bit of holiday tradition to our troops serving us.

Online, you’ll find gift items in a variety of price ranges. Be sure to check out their online specials for savings on certain gifts. I highly recommend going into their store to get a look, feel, and taste of everything they have to offer.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Hickory Farms and received a Hickory Farms gift basket to facilitate my review

For more fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas, visit The Mommy-Files