Each of the kids got one gift and stocking from Santa, one gift from Richard and me, and then a gift from each of their two sets of grandparents. It was really nice to keep it simple. We only had to wrap a few presents on Christmas Eve and we didn't spend too much time unwrapping presents on Christmas morning. This year it was mostly motivated by a desire to use our money on travel and outings, and to minimize the amount of STUFF that we accumulate while we live here because it will either have to be shipped or given away. But it went so smoothly, and felt right, so maybe we will keep this system indefinitely, motivated by more noble things like a desire to be less consumer-ish. Or something like that.
But Christmas Crackers are not crackers (or what the Brits call biscuits) at all. They sort of resemble a firecracker, they make a big popping sound when you pull them apart, and they have fun toys or jokes or treats inside. (Or all of the above!) I can't believe this tradition hasn't made it to the U.S. They were so fun.