Since family is all grown and live away and not interested in exchanging gifts, I have 'adopted' a QB group FWSQ and PC group that I did those projects with...and sent each of the 12 (15) families to send cookies or quilting things to for the winter holidays. Non-food items went to Canada, Netherlands, and Australia last year. Yes, the shipping costs a few $$, but it is worth it to me once a year to express my joy of our friendship. Can you really put a dollar value on friendship?? I love to cook and share the bounty of four or five different kinds of cookies in quart plastic bags. Buffalo chips, and Cowboy Chocolate cookies remain the favorites... both from the Texas Reporter Cook Book.
Of course, being retired we have a small budget to live on, but I save up for the holidays, to enjoy and spread the cheer to others...with respect for the way each celebrate the days. I use the six by six cardboard packaging and have gotten rave reviews in feedback.
We usually receive a fruit basket from email friends in Texas and brighten up our holidays. I also make homemade jellies and share it with them and others during the season. Never have met the couple in Texas who sent the fruit to us, but hold them dear in our hearts. Never have meet my QB group in person, except for one this summer, but I hold their friendship dear in my heart...but value and respect their views.