Some people (sounds like maybe your extended family) attach a large amount of importance to specific dates, like Dec 25th for example. I think this emphasis is poorly placed - the important thing is celebrating with your family. Who cares about the date? I was an airline brat and my Dad was gone on Dec 25th fairly regularly, so we just did the Santa thing on a day when he was home. During the rest of the year, overall my Dad was home more and able to do lots more with us kids than a 9-5 type person, especially when school was out during the summer. Just because a 9-5er sleeps in a bed that's in the same house as his kids doesn't mean he spends more quality time with the family than someone like you. As others have said on this thread, if you and your wife (and kids) are happy with your job and the lifestyle it yields, nothing else matters.