to think that come round for some cake after school

[Choufleur]

does not mean phone at 7.45am (although that in itself is ok as to was to wish DS happy birthday) and say we'll be round about 1pm.

That's what MIL did this morning as it's DS's 6th b'day. I have things to do and haven't got time to entertain them for 2 hours before pick up at school. I might just go shopping this afternoon instead of this morning so that I'm not here.

OK-first, I dohear what you´re saying.

Is there a compromise?

The things that you need to do-do you mean in the house that you couldn´t do if she was there?

Does she really need entertaining?

If she could look after herself while you get on why not

Unless she makes a habit of this.

I agree with thereistheball, in some ways it's good that inlaws want to spend time with you without DC's even if it's stopping you getting on with chores.
When you get older you easiy forget the routine of the day hen you DCs are little.

Would your DS not be excited to see granparents at school gate (esp. knowing it will involve a birthday present)?

I agree that if they are doing it because they feel comfortable & not to be awkward then that´s nice.

My ILs never visited me & their (only) GC without my husband there-despite offers.