The holidays conjure up all sorts of feelings in people. For families that have experienced happy harmonious celebrations the holidays are something to look forward to.

I made a few some years back and I found the process to be exhausting. The two Christmas food hampers that I made were not well thought out and I just didn't have the organizational skill to make the best use of my time and efforts. I thought that my days of making Christmas food hampers for the holidays were over before they really began.

I have been fortunate to have wonderful memories of Christmas' past. My family had many wonderful traditions involving gift giving, baking, visiting relatives and friends and of course attending religious services. Now that I am an adult I continue to see Christmas as a magical time.

First of all, you want to choose the containers for the Christmas food hampers. There are typically three kinds of containers available. One is a lovely box that looks like a wrapped present. There is a postal box that is quite plain and more utilitarian in looks. Then there is my personal favorite; the picnic basket.

After you choose your container it is time to fill it with items listed on the site. You can choose from pastas and sauces or sweets or even beer and wine. There are many options and you can mix and match items as you go. I made three Christmas food hampers in one afternoon.

I have to admit that this is not in keeping with my Scottish heritage, though. I really should go out and try to find the best deals on the items that I use to fill the Christmas food hampers but that will come in time. I think that I need a little online practice first.

Herbal seasonings and natural remedies are very popular now. Go to a bookstore or library and get a book of seasoning recipes. Visit an herb store to purchase your selected ingredients. The party store or craft shop can furnish attractive small bags or spice jars to contain your creations. Buy or make labels for each container, with a short description of compatible dishes. For example, "Excellent with potato salad, omelets or salad." Many common culinary herbs have medicinal value. Rosemary and garlic are good for your heart. Thyme is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic. Ask at the herb store to learn which of your selected herbs has medicinal value. Take notes. This Christmas gift food basket idea is a good choice for a cook or health-conscious recipient

The best way to find inspiration for your own Christmas food hampers is to go online and make some for your friends and family this year. By next holiday season you will be flying solo.