Each holiday season I buy about six to eight gift cards, redeemable at a coffee shop or bookstore. I tape one gift card to a greeting card and mail it to a particular friend. The greeting cards are not holiday cards featuring smiling Santas or carolers trooping past snowdrifts and warmly lit suburban houses. They are seasonal, though, and typically feature autumn leaves, snowy peaks, or a mountain lake reflecting the sun. I also during holiday season give away free poetry books I’ve published to various customers at literary events. If during the holiday season I receive a gift or card, I respond by either sending a seasonal card, a warmly affectionate email message, or hugs and handshakes when next I see the gift-giver. Now, I don’t particularly want gifts, and I rarely feel offended if I don’t receive one. I don’t want anyone feeling pressured to buy or send me something for the holidays, and I don’t terribly like being pressured to do so, either. This is my way; it’s not for everyone, but I do not feel I am cold or cheap. I simply don’t like pressure and guilt and expectation regarding gifts. Your friendship is enough.