I didn't set a level, but isn't it usually somewhere in the $10 to $20 US range? I have to admit that while I probably don't go over that, I tend to pool suitable objects, some old, some new, so I couldn't place a price on the things I've sent, with the usual exception of a purchased CD. Quite a few folks in the past have sent a small selection of goodies - sometimes food, sometimes local crafts, other times a mix of local publications, distinctly local objects, and some more general gift with them. I have to admit the thing that always gets me when I first open a foreign package is reading the newspaper things were wrapped in. Ad pages - looking at products and prices, social or news pages, just to see what is going on or how things are described - it's all interesting.

The main thing is, if you're really pinched in the pocketbook, mail as early as possible so you can take advantage of the slower less expensive shipping. It's not a problem if it arrives early, but it is disappointing if it arrives very late. Be sure to wrap your package well if you send it that way.

When I send out addresses I will remind people that part of what makes this a nice group experience is some participation in the threads that surround the exchange. Please participate so others know you're there. If/when you sign on as a guest, use the same name so the moderators don't go nuts wondering who is posting, and please come back to the threads when the gift to you arrives to let the sender know. Most international packages aren't traceable unless they go in the most expensive first-class mail, so we need confirmation in the threads.

And of course, say "Thank you!" :-)

SRS