Easiest way to share files over internet?

I have a handful of files (MS word, excel, access, money) that I work with
both at home and work on a regular basis. I use a little usb drive to
transfer them, or occasionally use email. I thought it would be nice to be
able to log in remotely and retrieve files if need be. That set me off on a
long, unrewarding path of nonsense to get VPN working. When I finally did, I
could not actually copy a file from one location to the other. I can access
shares, see the files, etc. I can create a new text file on the remote
machine no problem. However, if I try to copy a file - forget it. Long hour
glass followed by errors, hanging. All I want to do is be able to retrieve
files in both directions. I considered FTP, but I was concerned about
security. Any suggestions?