Help me come up with a plan

[fortmyersbride]

DH is on call Christmas Eve and day. He'll have to go in and see his patients each morning and then can come home as long as there are no emergencies that come up. Regardless, making plans is historically a bad idea b/c it always seems to result in him having to go back in, and he needs to stay within a few miles of the hospital.

My parents and MIL live in town, but neither are close to the hospital so DH can't go to their houses either day. MIL has invited herself over for Xmas day which I have not yet agreed to. Would it be horribly tacky of me to suggest to both sides of the family a sort of "open house" at my house on Xmas, with the understanding that it will just be a variety of holiday snacks, very casual? Or does anyone else have other ideas? People are pestering us for plans, and I honestly would love to have a low key Christmas with just the 4 of us if it weren't for the drama that would ensue.

[pugz]

I think that's a good idea, maybe let the kids open presents in the morning and then after lunch/naps and before dinner have family come by for snacks?

[cjeanette]

I don't see anything wrong with that. If they want something more formal they could host it on a different day.

[elocrates]

This is a great idea. No pressure is best if plans with DH need to be up in the air. Holiday call is nearly guaranteed to require extra time at work. I would consider setting a time frame when people are welcome to visit, just to take more stress off you as well.

[fortmyersbride]

Thanks, ladies. Early afternoon for a set amount of time sounds great. I think maybe post lunch till nap time, so no one expects a full meal and the kids will be at their best