[107barney]

I don't think it has anything to do with the length of time that someone is a vendor and I agree with Jen and others who feel that further imposition of a rule will deter participation. But, I do think we need another rule.

I am concerned that some members do not feel comfortable participating because they perceive the GE boxes sent/received are very expensive and they feel uncomfortable, despite their being no requirement to spend far over the limit.

I propose that there be a maximum spending amount. I previously did not think it was necessary, but I hate to see members not participate because they think they just can't deliver an expensive box.

I know that there have been members who have received boxes of dollar store items, dirty items, used items, etc. Sometimes, it was clear this was deliberate -- for example, when a dollar store box was delivered by a vendor of this forum who was actively and aggressively peddling her seemingly higher quality wares at the same time. That situation pissed everyone off, and was dealt with accordingly. But there have been other times where there was a mixture of items - dollar store and other items where CLEARLY the person purchasing the items put a lot of love and thought into the gift as a whole.

The raising of the limit to participate addressed the dollar store type novelty items accordingly. Hopefully, that weeded out the people who were only looking to participate to spend the minimum and gain the maximum.

But, I think we still have a problem.

If we cap the limit, we can assure that the people playing are not in it for the "gifts" received, but because they are interested in the fun and the friendships cultivated through the exchange.

I propose a $100 cap on spending.