we've already pretty much got Christmas planned for this year. it will be at my brother's place as they have kids already, and it's better for them to be able to play with their toys at home - plus they have more freedom to be in and out of the house there (we dont have proper fences, so someone has to be outside with them for safety). we have the "shared meal" thing down to a fine art as we do this pretty much every week, so it will just be a case of feeding an extra few people (my old's, an intellectually disabled aunt, maybe SIL's parents)

bro is keen to do a roast turkey breast for him and DH, so that will be done in the oven, roast lamb in the dutch oven on the shed fire - makes the shed warm, but OMG - DIVINE FOOD!! takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the size of the piece of meat, so bro will get up in the morning and put it on. pork and beef cooked day before on the bbq rotisserie. my aunt will buy a chook just so she can contribute, and the old's will supply some ham. i'll make vegie bake in advance and freeze it ready to go. other baked veg will be prepared the night before and just put in the oven to cook. green veg is easy. once the lamb is done, i'll make the gravy, DH carves the meat, SIL sorts out the simple veg, and bro grabs the other stuff from the oven (which is in their laundry) - that's about the only time it's busy in the kitchen - the rest of the time we just flit about and do our part, entertain the kids etc

what i would suggest for anyone having extra people over - learn to reliquish control of your kitchen!! dance the tango with anyone that is trying to help (unless they're taking over your signature dish!), and above all - don't let Christmas be stressful!!!

we effectively had this same meal (a lot less meat!) at the end of last month for hubby's birthday - but had it here - and only decided on it at about 2pm - it turned out fantastically, and even though it was elaborate for a week night meal, it wasn't stressful as everyone just did their part - even the four year old - she put the sprinkles on uncle boof's birthday cake!!