My family did not have these interesting traditions, however, I was lucky enough to meet the Z sisters and they brought me into their fold. My first experience with the Z sisters' cookies was a few years back and it was my first cookie exchange. I think I was not inventive enough and brought regular chocolate chip cookies. Not that it was not appreciated, but after seeing the work and type of cookies everyone was bringing I was determined to outdo myself the next year. So, every year after each cookie exchange I try to out-bake and out-taste everyone else. Some years I think I succeeded, some years, I can't believe what others have done. But each year, I walk away in a sugar coma and saying not again. But an hour later, I am looking out for the next idea. This year I was flying in and was stuck in an airport for a day, and came in the night before the cookie exchange. I had a great idea and very little baking. So, if anyone needs an idea for next year, here's what I did. I baked mini-cupcakes (using mini-muffin pan and any flavor you like) and then made different icings and frostings. I made chocolate frosting, chocolate mocha, coffee icing, peppermint icing, egg nog icing, white chocolate cream cheese frosting, butterscotch cream cheese frosting, and peanut butter frosting. You could use plain cookies or anything else plain as to not overwhelm the frosting. Sorry, Beth, I think we ate all the cookies! But I am sure your sister still has some at her place.