It’s not even February, but heart-shaped boxes decorated with ruffles, ribbons and all manner finery already crowd store shelves, tempting us to drop one in our carts.
Where were the POM POMS?
I love Pom Poms. Remember those chocolate-covered caramel balls? They were my favorite candy at the Rialto Theater in Searcy way back when.
I remember clearly the last time I saw them. I was in Big Lots when the woman in front of me at the checkout counter grabbed the last box of POMS POMS.
The last box of POM POMS at all the checkouts.
The last box of POM POMS in the store.
That was a number of years ago, and I’m still disappointed. I suppose I miss POM POMS partly for sentimental reasons. They represent a carefree time of life.
My favorite candy is no longer available.
![]() |
Old Time Candy didn’t mince words. (I added the message about who to blame.) |
POM POMS were originally produced by the James O. Welch Company. In 1963, The National Biscuit Company bought them. Warner-Lambert acquired the Welch brands in 1988. Then in 1993, Tootsie Roll Industries bought them.

I’ll take the jumbo, please.
Actually, I did. A couple of months ago and I’m still enjoying them.
Normally when I run across Riesen, I buy the smallest bag. But all Tuesday Morning had that day was the Jumbo size. And the price was right.

They’re so rich, one is enough.
Okay, maybe two.
And I share.
I’m reminded that, like many other things in life, POM POMS candy has had its day.
There’s a New Kid on the block.
If I had whined around and refused to try Riesen, I would have missed out on something just as rich and satisfying as my old favorite even though it’s a little different.
When change comes, I hope we’ll
- Quiet ourselves
- Listen
- Watch for a path leading to a new adventure.