Put Some Stoke In Your Stocking with Harley-Davidson

The holidays can be a stressful time. From family events or planning your own gathering to finding the perfect gift for your loved ones, it seems like there is never enough time.

This year, instead of going from store to store scouring for inspiration and slowly checking off your gift list, consider these ideas from Harley-Davidson that go the extra mile.

Give the gift of a first ride

Surprise the child in your life with a modern twist on a classic holiday gift: an ultimate bike experience to give him or her time and exercise outdoors. For example, the IRONe12 and IRONe16 electric balance bikes can be a perfect learning tool for hand-eye coordination to help a child develop skills while having fun. He or she can learn to push, balance and coast in the non-powered mode before graduating to a powered mode to learn an understanding of the brake and throttle. This gift can provide a one-of-a-kind learning experience and spark a lifetime love for riding on two wheels.

For the “makers” in your life 

The holidays are an opportunity to build memories with family and friends, but this year you can give them the opportunity to build something else with an option like the LEGO Harley-Davidson Fat Boy Kit. This set provides an immersive building experience while showcasing a real-life motorcycle to give the joy of a kid opening a new favorite toy. This gift can be a perfect selection for someone of any age who loves the experience of building and completing a project.

Fashion-forward finds 

Give a gift that keeps your loved ones looking good and feeling confident by gifting stylish apparel. For example, flannels and plaid shirts can keep them warm and toasty this holiday season while also adding flair for men and women. With a variety of color and style options, you can find the right fit for everyone on your list. For those looking to give a more luxurious present, the Wild Distressed Leather Biker Jacket for women and the Digger Leather Jacket for men are options.

For those on the go

Whether commuting to work or hitting the road, your loved one may feel like going on an adventure every time he or she leaves the house with and option like the useful Waxed Canvas Backpack. The backpack is water-resistant with an interior padded laptop sleeve and wide comfortable straps. The waxed canvas and heavy gauge leather provide a unique look and durability.

Give the gift of a new adventure

There’s always that one friend or family member who already has everything under the sun. Instead of stressing to find the perfect tangible item this year, give an adventurous experience he or she is likely to remember for years to come. For example, the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course is a unique option to give the thrill seeker in your life confidence riding on two wheels in just one weekend.

For more holiday gift-giving inspiration, find the full guide at H-D.com/Holiday.

Holiday Entertaining with 5 Sommelier-Approved Wine Pairings

The holiday season is all about entertaining. This year, take your holiday soiree to the next level with a palate-pleasing wine pairing experience. Invite friends and family to the kitchen for easily pairable tastes of these three favorites: wine, cheese and chocolate.

Before diving into the nearly endless pairing options, focus on delicious, affordable and high-quality ingredients like those at ALDI, where you’ll find all you need for your entertaining spread. As a go-to source for wine, cheese, chocolate and more, you can ensure you have everything you need during the holiday entertaining season.

Consider these five festive wines and tasty pairings shared by sommelier and lifestyle expert Sarah Tracey, which showcase a range of her favorite ALDI-exclusive choices for the holiday season. Find more seasonal entertaining ideas at aldi.us.

• Light and Sweet – With aromas and flavors of strawberries and cherries, the sweet finish of Arosa Sparkling Moscato Rosé pairs with soft cheeses like Emporium Selection Baking Brie with Cranberry Glaze and Specially Selected Belgian Cocoa Dusted Truffles.
• Crisp and Balanced – The Exquisite Collection Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and well-balanced. To complement the taste properly, try matching it with Emporium Selection Mini Goat Milk Brie or Moser Roth Orange & Almond Chocolate Bars.
• Rich and Full – For a bolder, more robust sip, consider Grande Alberone Rosso with flavors of cherry, blackberry and raisin. These notes make it ideal for aligning with stronger tastes like Emporium Selection Truffle Cheddar or Choceur Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries.
• Tropical and Toasty – Full-bodied, bright pear and tropical fruit flavors balance out buttery hints of toasty oak and subtle caramel highlights in William Wright Chardonnay. Pair it with sophisticated cheeses like Emporium Selection Champagne Cheddar for a complementary experience, and finish the taste with Choceur Dark Chocolate Coconut Covered Almonds.
• Lush and Silky – A medium-bodied wine like William Wright Reserve Pinot Noir, featuring cherry, blackberry and plum aromas with vanilla nuances, pairs well with flavorful cheeses. Try Emporium Selection artisan flavored cheese, like the variety “Got Tea Have It.” Choceur Dark Chocolate Covered Cranberries complement the chocolate pairing nicely.

5 Ways to Support Your Community this Holiday Season

Each year, the true spirit of the holidays can seem to get buried further beneath mountains of wrapping paper and drowned out by commercialism.

However, when it comes to the holidays, gifts don’t have to come in glossy paper with crisp edges and hidden tape (though those are nice, too). For example, author Carol Lavin Bernick recommends focusing on gifts that make an impact, such as giving back within your community.

The former chairman of beauty conglomerate Alberto Culver, Bernick published “Gather As You Go,”a book sharing insights she’s learned through her many roles: corporate leader, working mother, philanthropist and founder of the nonprofit organization Enchanted Backpack.

Consider these tips from Bernick for making a difference without breaking the bank. 

1. It’s About More Than Just Dollars - Instead of measuring your support by how much money you give, focus on the many ways you can support organizations near and dear to you by spreading the word online and in-person while recruiting new supporters. Alternatively, you can find an organization that puts your knowledge and skills to work. For example, if you’re an artist or IT specialist, find a charity that needs your skill set. 
2. Think Long-Term - When you’re working with an organization, consider how you can help it find a long-term solution to problems. For example, if you’re interested in helping young girls excel in science and math, work with your local elementary or junior high school to establish or support an after-school STEM program. 
3. Start at Home - Teach your children the importance of giving back by donating gifts to those in need through charitable programs, volunteering at a food pantry or fundraising through a bake sale. 
4. Shop with Purpose - This year, you can make an impact with your holiday shopping by buying gifts that give back. For instance, all proceeds from “Gather As You Go”directly benefit Enchanted Backpack. 
5. Focus on Your Passions - Define your focus and make a difference by dedicating yourself to one or two causes that excite you the most. Find your passion and pursue it. 

Find more inspiration to give back at gatherasyougo.com.