2000 my family stopped giving gifts. All my parents' grand kids were old enough and none of the adults needed more stuff. We didn't tell our parents but all of us were offended by W's suggestion to go shopping after 9/11.
My husband's family draws names so we only have to buy one present and only get one present. Now that there are grandkids in that family, the kids do get presents. My rule for kids' presents - no toys. I give books - I try to pick books ahead of the children's chronological ages. Last year the 18 month old twins got books aimed for 2-3 year olds.
I wish his family WOULD send out wish lists. I seldom see them and have no clue what they would like. It would help a lot. And I wouldn't get really stupid presents that I hate and have nothing to do with my lifestyle. Who needs a cookie jar shaped like a shark that plays the "Jaws" theme every time it's opened? A goose statuette with different outfits for different holidays and seasons? 
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