Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared for Severe Weather in the RV

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

severe weather in the rvSevere weather in the RV can be scary! Don’t be scared, be prepared! The Roadschool Moms discuss in depth, more than 20 precautions to take during severe weather seasons in Episode #181 of Roadschool Moms Radio.  The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the back porch and behind the wheel. Holly Giles, the creator of The Giles Frontierbroadcasts from central Florida.  This week, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher is behind the wheel from a SouthWest Florida location. 

This broadcast gives specific advice for those living the fulltime RV lifestyle; however, many topics discussed are beneficial to Roadschool Moms no matter where in the world you are!

 Before You Hit the Road

There are several ways to arm your family with the proper tools and precautionary measures to deal with inclement weather factors that may arise down the road. The key to this part of being prepared is to be proactive. A few things to do before you hit the road include

  • Download a good weather app with key features such as Accuweather or The Weather Channel
  • Gather adequate roadmaps for all areas of the journey ahead
  • Always travel with a weather radio with the seven NOAA channels
  • Keep a charged computer or tablet nearby with the appropriate cords
  • Maintain a current selection of various campground directories such as the Big Rigs Best Bets directory
  • Create an emergency survival kit as well as a bug out bag for each family member

Finally, before you take off on the next road trip adventure, talk with all passengers, especially the kiddos, to demonstrate at least two (2) ways out of the RV in case of an emergency. A final inspection of the RV, tow vehicle, or toad is also non-negotiable. The last checkmark on the list to playing it safe is to put back sufficient cash to cover basic expenses including fuel, food, and accommodations for several days in case the family is displaced due to an accident or weather-related situation.

Severe Weather in the RV

Severe weather is scary no matter where in the world you live. Fulltime RVing families face even more challenges in weather-related situations. Often, RV travel takes place in regions of the country that are unfamiliar. Someone who grew up in Colorado may have no clue what to look for during hurricane season in Florida. A few no-brainer tips to remember are

  • Keep a mobile device charged at all times
  • Check satellite radio often for weather updates
  • If near the coast, be aware of tropical storms brewing
  • Keep fuel, propane, and water tanks full when weather predictions are unstable

It is imperative to be weather aware when you are on the road. If you sense a change, pull over to a safe location and check the changing weather conditions. Remember, an RV is not a safe location during severe weather. Finding safe shelter is a must to avoid the risk of injury o even death. Retail stores, the library, a hospital, the post office, or any structure that you can reach with ample parking is good for an emergency. If it becomes necessary to pull over on the road, do not park next to a guard rail or any obstruction that will keep you from exiting the RV.

Take No Chances

The best advice is to take no chances during even the possibility of severe weather. Never set up camp next to creeks, rivers, or waterways. Awareness of how the surroundings can change in a flash flood is key such as near mountain slopes, canyons, or wash areas in the desert. Always retract your awing when you are parked if bad weather is in the forecast. This is also a good time to empty the black tank while making sure fresh water and fuel tanks are full. Analyze at least two (2) ways out of the RV site if downed power lines become an issue. Make mental notes of the best way and the backup plan for evacuation if necessary. Hit the replay to listen to more details on these and other tips for safety in severe weather.

Follow the encouragement to learn something new everyday from Learning Lifestyle Revival membership.

 More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 180 podcast replays.  Subscribe on iTunes, rate the show and leave a review. Not sure how to do that? Check out the video – It’s as easy as 1-2-3! Android users follow on Stitcher.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. These roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 13


Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor – Well Planned Gal

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Combine organizational tools with year long encouragement by bundling Well Planned Day planners with the popular Family Magazine. For a limited time, Save 30% with one of her  popular planner bundles. Each bundle contains 2 planner products with a one-year subscription to Family Magazine.  

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Be Still: Being Enough

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Being enough is the focus in Episode #171 of Roadschool Moms Radio. This is the last episode of the three-part series for the RSM focus on two words:  Be Still. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the back porch and behind the wheel. Holly Giles, the creator of The Giles Frontierbroadcasts from central Florida.  This week, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher is alongside her co-host at The Giles Frontier for a little time together to share their thoughts on being enough. The pair examines this sentiment closely, what it means to other mamas, and how to bust up the myth that surrounds it.

Being Enough

Holly shares the solar eclipse story she mentioned on the last episode. Her family was caught in a lightning storm on a boat after the epic solar event. The events that transpired afterward sound like chaos. In the end, she realizes it was a lesson in perspective. While everyone has a different perspective on how we fit into the world, it often leads to the question Am I enough?

(7:30) Mary Beth and Holly converse about the mom-struggle with being enough in today’s culture with social media pressure to always do more. Mary Beth tells us that “you are the example for your children” (good, bad or indifferent.) She reminds to always be mindful of our actions.  Holly shares the idea that moms are told to do it all, but at what price?

Mary Beth uses an example of being a ball field mom quickly morphs into a whole job for moms who really just want to watch their kids play ball. Holly shares a similar story of her experience with soccer.

 The self-sufficient worker may seem to be moving the world but it is the humble, praying worker that moves heaven. David Paulson

Moms Without a Cape

(11:30)Are we being pushed to be self-sufficient supermoms? Mary Beth confesses her issues with priorities. She is a solo mom, not by choice, and juggles work, school, and home life. Admitting she is motivated by finances right now, tears begin to fall as Holly shares her take on what the family dynamics look like from the other side. Mary Beth opens up about being vulnerable to the super mom syndrome and not choosing the right road for her family during times of chaos that lead to stress.

(16:45) The RSM duo talk about words of wisdom from Kristen, the RSM prayer team leader. Further, they share her advice that to ask God to go before you in daily struggles. It may not lead to perfect days but will smooth out the rough edges every time.

Somehow society has taken motherhood and twisted it to be a side note of greater things. Mary Beth tells mothers to take off their cape and let go of the supermom role. Much of this broadcast refers back to a previous show about comparison and how saying NO leads to peace in your home. Are you giving away your best to everyone else but your family?

(24:00) Final thoughts from these veteran homeschool moms including the idea to be present with your time. Do not regret yesterday. Do not compromise today on the plan for more time tomorrow. Holly puts this into perspective with the sudden passing of her cousin, Wesley. She describes the beautiful afternoon they shared a few months ago as they set everything aside for a cousin get-together lunch.

 

being enough

Making time to be present, not multitasking, allows these opportunities to be treasured memories.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.  Colossians 3:12

(28:00) Mary Beth chats with Rachel, a guest at Pioneer day, about her thoughts on seasons.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 170 podcast replays. Subscribe to us on iTunes, and leave us a review in just three easy steps.  Download the iTunes Podcast app to your device and Android users can find us on the Stitcher app.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. These roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!

 

We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor, The Miracle Season!

Based on the inspiring true story of West High School girl’s volleyball team. After the tragic death of the school’s star player Caroline “Line” Found, the remaining team players must band together under the guidance of their tough-love coach in hope of winning the state championship.

Visit here to learn more.


Be Still or Be Busy?

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

The Roadschool Moms examine how the pressure to be busy disrupts everyday life in Episode#169. This is the first episode of a three-part series for the RSM focus on two words:  Be Still. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the back porch and behind the wheel. Holly Giles, creator of The Giles Frontierbroadcasts from central Florida. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from west central Indiana. The OTR duo are on a mission to bust up the busyness factor to Roadschool Moms everywhere. Hit the replay to hear more about this revelation that will unsabatoge your homeschool and your life.

Be Still

This broadcast begins with encouragement to set priorities in your household including but not limited to homeschool and extracurricular activities. Mary Beth reminds listeners to set goals and define what is truly important to your family. A past episode of RSM radio about comparison also reminds that what is right for one family isn’t necessarily the answer for another. Holly expands on this thought with reflection of a past weekly schedule in their house. She remembers a time when the priority in her house was theraphy sessions, co-op responsibilities, and scheduled field trips. It sounds harmless enough doesn’t it? Tune in to find out how this time period from The Giles Frontier turns into disciplinary issues and exhausted kids.

Mary Beth challenges Roadschool Moms everywhere to unplug themselves from the daily chaos that life can sometimes bring! When you have a few minutes, don’t turn to a screen to occupy your mind. Be bored! Holly points out that being busy affects time spent with your family members. Being fully intentional with our family is impossible if we have a phone in one hand and a schedule of busy in the other.

The Busyness Myth

Busy means productive. NOT! The real truth over the busyness myth goes back to a simple idea. Quality vs. Quantity. Successful homeschool moms agree that one productive, intentional homeschool day out performs three unproductive, forced days on a hamster wheel.

Afraid your kids are missing something? So what. These roadschool mamas have an “all for one and one for all attitude.” MB and Holly agree that supporting each other as a family is a good priority to set for family values. Set priorities and BE accomplished.

How do you begin to unravel being busy? What will kids do with free time? Be still and let them discover interests and talents on their own. Tackle business and find white space in your week. MB says don’t over complicate life. Find what gives you peace to find the priority in your life. Does the extras in your schedule enhance the foundation that is important to your family?

Find a way to closely examine in the layers of your life. Holly challenges listeners to peel back these layers and find a way to free up an entire day of your household schedule this week. What can you take away to find space and time and be still with your family:  What you will discover is your family rhythm for finding perfect peace.

The final thought from this week’s Roadschool Moms team is the challenge to be bored. Want to follow how Mary Beth & Holly accept this friendly compeition? Visit them on Facebook and search #bebored.  

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!  Psalm 37:7

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 165 podcast replays. Subscribe, rate and review us on iTunes in three easy steps.  Android users can listen to us on the Stitcher.com app.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. These roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


 


The Comparison Trap

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

The Roadschool Moms uncover the comparison myth in Episode#167. This second episode of the team’s three-part Mythbusters series reveals how comparing your homeschool to others can be a significant detriment to all. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the back porch and behind the wheel. Holly Giles, the creator of The Giles Frontierbroadcasts from central Florida. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from west-central Indiana. The OTR duo is on a mission to bust up the comparison myth to Roadschool Moms everywhere. Hit the replay to hear more about this revelation that will unsabatoge your homeschool and your life.

Fact:  Apples to Apples

Comparing apples to apples in your everyday life may seem innocent. But the harsh reality is that comparison is a sin. Why? Because it leads to envy. These veteran homeschooling moms point out early in the broadcast that if you are jealous of the mama next door whose kiddos are playing the violin while reading a Shakespeare classic then you probably don’t have a lot of love in your heart.

A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.  Proverbs 14:30

Myth

The RSM challenge from this episode is to Dare NOT to Compare! MB encourages roadschool moms everywhere to lay aside the weight of comparison, especially prideful comparison. She reminds us it is a burden that you may not even realize you are carrying around. It can be a heavy one! Imagine a journey filled with confidence and satisfaction instead of a road that leads to feelings of deficiency and underachievement. The differences you find in your kiddos from others is the dynamics that will drive them to excellence!

 

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 165 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. These roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


 


A Day at Home with Roadschool Moms

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

What does a typical homeschool day look like with the Roadschool Moms team? Hit the replay from Episode #167 Roadschool Moms Radio to find out!

Mary Beth begins the broadcast with tales from her recent visit to The City Museum. She reveals this monstrosity of a museum is one of the most engaging, fabulous attractions visited by her family in their 7 years as a fulltime family on the road.  The biggest tip from this segment of Roadschool Moms Radio is the 6 Must Have Things to take on your own roadschool adventure to this everchanging playground for all ages. (Note: this attraction sells knee pads in their gift shop. What?)

This episode provides listeners with a look at a Day at Home with the Roadschool Moms co-hosts.  Listening to the roadschooling duo chit chat about their week gives a snapshot of how each pairs this learning style with the adventure that can be found in a normal homeschool routine. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from wherever in the world they are. Holly broadcasts from her back porch in Central Florida. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from behind the wheel from a lesser known Crossroads of America in west central Indiana. These two are on a mission to encourage and inspire Roadschool Moms everywhere to receive each day as a gift; and, to keep eyes peeled for the next turn where education meets adventure. Hit the replay to hear more about this idea that will unsabatoge your homeschool and your life.

Roadschool from the Back Porch

Holly shares her love for nature from every facet of The Giles Frontier. She talks about a roadschool adventure not so long ago with the manatee in her homestate. Pictured left is a shot of her homeschool pack on a visit to Crystal River Preserve.  This week’s show intro is followed with Holly’s personal experience of how she began homeschooling. She reveals the challenges her family faced when oldest son Grayson had a stroke early in his life. What unfolds next is what led to the family’s homeschool journey.  This homeschool veteran gives many examples of how easy it is to embark on a learning lifestyle revival. Looking for more direction from Holly? Check out the many Adventure Classes directed by this backyard naturalist this spring! Hit the replay to hear more of Holly’s inspiration and encouragement.

Roadschool from Behind the Wheel

Mary Beth reflects how the Road Trip Teacher was formed from her early homeschooling experiences on the road. She admits that mistakes were made by the dozen in her first years of school at home, an example she vehemently discourages against.  This homeschool mama reminds her homeschooling sisters to stay in their own lane. She encourages others to take a year or even two to find your groove. Stay out of your own way! That’s a sentiment that both Roadschool Moms wildly agree on. The team also touches on the labels of unchooling and eclectic learning styles. A brief talk about curriculum also is discussed.

Finally, each of these moms talk about a typical homeschool week from the back porch and behind the wheel. The Road Trip Teacher talks specifics about days of the week and how roadschool unfolds during different seasons of the family travel schedule. She gives examples of her kid’s resources including how Notgrass History is being used to gain four full credit for her high schooler. Holly elaborates on a week with her crew that includes the family lawn business, chores, and homeschool fundamentals.

Roadschool Moms Chit-Chat-o’Meter – Fast forward to listen:

  • 8:10  How we started homeschooling
  • 18:10 Labeling your homeschool
  • 29:35 Curriculum talk
  • 37:05 A view of our week

Prairie Life book club.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 165 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. These roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


 


Roadschool: No RV Needed!

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

The Roadschool Moms team hits the ground running in episode #166. Roadschooling with no RV needed? You bet! Mary Beth begins the broadcast with news that after 165 hours of Roadschool Mom fun & fellowship, KT is stepping away from the podcast. Kimberly and her family are being led on a new adventure in full-time ministry. Holly Giles, the creator of The Giles Frontier, has joined the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network and will fill the shoes with her own sweet and sassy style.

The subject of this podcast scheduled a few months ago couldn’t have been any better. It is the perfect time to explore roadschool adventure from the back porch and behind the wheel! The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from wherever in the world they are. Holly broadcasts from her back porch in Central Florida. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Trail Area near Vandalia, IL. The dynamic duo are on a mission to encourage and inspire Roadschool Moms everywhere to use each day as a gift in the next roadschool adventure. Hit the replay to hear more about this idea that will unsabatoge your homeschool and your life.

Roadschool from the Back Porch

Holly shares her love for nature and the desire to bring other homeschoolers to the outdoor learning lab found in so many places all around us. It’s obvious she thrives on the the works of Mother Nature and is quick to point out the many learning opportunities that anyone can pursue from wherever in the world you are. As a matter of fact, that revelation proves that anyone can be a roadschooler! This backyard naturalist gives many examples of how easy it is to embark on a learning lifestyle revival. Looking for more direction? Check out the many Adventure Classes held by The Giles Frontier this spring! Hit the replay to hear more of Holly’s inspiration and encouragement.

 

Roadschool from Behind the Wheel

Mary Beth reflects on the past few years and the projects that Holly has already been an instrumental part of. She reminds listeners of the Blaze New Trails episode as well as the Morning Time by Nature show, both featuring Holly and The Giles Frontier. Last summer, MB took her roadschool crew on a quest to visit many of the Laura Ingalls Wilder historic sites in the Midwest in cooperation with Holly’s Prairie Life book club. The new RSM team is in agreement, God had a plan all along. He is never late, He is never early. God is always right on time.

Later in the episode, Mary Beth talks about her middle schooler’s recent educational detour. While her focus for this year’s rolling homeschool is on Notgrass History resources, the Road Trip Teacher admits that her 8th grader is on a wild ride learning adventure like no other. After a seemingly ordinary family fun day at Six Flags, her roadschooler is on a quest to learn anything and everything about roller coasters. Sound crazy? Listen for the details to see how this plays out.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 165 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. But these roadschool defined adventures don’t stop there. Holly Giles, founder of The Giles Frontier, and Mary Beth Goff, creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling from the back porch of your home and behind the wheel across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


 


Uncover the Happiness Myth

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

The Roadschool Moms tackle the happiness myth in Episode#165. This first episode of the team’s three-part Mythbusters series reveals shocking truths about this superficial state of mind. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the road. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Familiesbroadcasts from their SouthEast Florida Coast. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from west central Indiana. The OTR duo are on a mission to bust up the happiness myth to Roadschool Moms everywhere. Hit the replay to hear more about this revelation that will unsabatoge your homeschool and your life.

Fact

When googled, happiness comes up 567,000,000 times. In addition to the definition of happiness, guides to finding it, secrets to keeping it, and an official happiness index can also be found. If visual happiness is what you’re looking for get your scrolling finger ready as you can find hundreds of thousands of images of smiley faces, sunsets, rainbows, and unicorns to represent. What does this mean? The world is obsessed with focusing on this temporary, external instead of reaching deep inside to find joy from within.

Myth

Happiness isn’t a real emotion. In fact, happiness isn’t even a feeling. Even Websters agrees it is just a state. Happiness comes and goes like the wind. Finding joy, now that is real. Make a joyful noise, no matter what the situation. The more joy you activate in your daily life, the stronger connection you will have to your faith, your family, and the life surrounding each.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 150 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Families, and Mary Beth Goff, the creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling while traveling full time across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 12


 


Instant Pot Thanksgiving in 5 Easy Steps

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Thanksgiving Dinner in an Instant is on the priority list for Roadschool Moms in Episode #155. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the road. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Familiesbroadcasts from on the road in Mobile, Alabama. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from west central Indiana. The OTR duo are together for the 1st of 6 shows in their annual holiday mini-series. Hit the replay to hear more about planning an easy yet delicious holiday dinner using the Instant Pot and a few other essential RV kitchen must haves.

5 Easy Steps to an Instant Pot Thanksgiving

Space is limited for creating a holiday dinner in the RV kitchen but the menu doesn’t have to be.The only way to serve holiday dinner for a crowd, or even your family, with no stress is to put together the plan as if it were a puzzle. With planning and the right tools, a delicious Thanksgiving menu will come together in 5 easy steps using the Instant Pot and a few other must have items.

  • Plan the menu and organize pre-dinner tasks
  • Prepare any side dishes or desserts in the days before the holiday
  • Ready any ingredients possible ahead of time
  • Set early morning cooking on auto pilot
  • Make the last preparations and serve

Holiday Dinner in an Instant

 The first assessment to a successful holiday dinner includes the number of people to serve and the dinner menu at hand. Write the final menu on anything from a Post-it note to an Excel spreadsheet. Think of this as the four corners to the holiday dinner puzzle.

Next, put together all the background pieces of the puzzle a/k/a the Thanksgiving Feast. Gather together any common ingredients that must be used for recipes. For example, if you need diced celery for the dressing and the apple salad, do that a few days prior to the holiday and place the proper amount for each recipe in separate zip lock bags. Look for any side dishes on the menu that can be prepared ahead of time such as the deviled eggs or sweet potato pudding. Insert Instant Pot Thanksgiving shortcut here:  Pressure cook eggs for 5 minutes, quick release and a cold water bath equals perfect hard-boiled eggs. Likewise, dishes such as green bean casserole can be prepared in advance, baked until almost done, and finished (the last 15 minutes) right before dinner is served. Prepare desserts such as pies and cakes in the days ahead of the meal.

The star of the Thanksgiving table is usually a roasted turkey. Think of this as the final centerpiece to the puzzle of the big picture.  Instant Pot turkey will come out moist and delicious. The best part? Pressure cook the turkey in the early morning hours of the holiday before the day is hectic. Holiday ham Instant Pot style is another win for the main event to the table.

Holiday Dinner in an Insant

Tried and true recipes are the best foundation to building a holiday dinner in an Instant. Further, new recipes must take a test run before the final dinner. Grandma always said “Thanksgiving is not the time to try out the neighbor’s favorite recipe.” In addition, the best menu items from our Instant Pot recipe box include

Turkey Breast

Savory Turkey Dressing

Creamy Pressure Cooked Mashed Potatoes

Sweet Potato Pudding

Other tools of the trade in the RV kitchen for a quick and easy family feast include a sheet pan and a convection oven/microwave. These extra items can cut meal preparation to a minimum when utilizing the Instant Pot for most of the holiday dinner. For more tips on an Instant Pot Thanksgiving, hit the replay on the Roadschool Moms interview with pressure cooking expert Laura Pazzaglia.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 150 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Families, and Mary Beth Goff, the creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling while traveling full time across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 11


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!


We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor Sony and their new movie, The Star, the Story of the First Christmas – Coming in Theaters November 17th!

Visit TheStarMovie.com to learn more.


Gutsy Girls with Amy Sullivan

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Raising gutsy girls is the hot topic of Episode #154 of Roadschool Moms. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the road. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Familiesbroadcasts from aboard the Cruise Chics voyage. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from northern Kentucky. The OTR duo are joined by Amy L. Sullivan, the author of the brilliant Gutsy Girls book series. Hit the replay to hear more about Amy and how she came to write this collection of reading material for young girls.

Who is Amy L. Sullivan?

Amy Sullivan is a Christian mama with the inclination to be brave and make a difference. She is also a writer, a dreamer, and a difference maker. First of all, she shares that for some of her life, Christians made her feel itchy like a bad sweater. Consequently, she also talks about the journey that led her to Christ. The engaging author sheds light on other details during this interview including:

  • Who the book series is for?
  • Why there is room for Jesus and science in today’s world?
  • How she came to write about Christian women who impacted the world?
  • What age group the book collection is designed for?
  • Where to find educational resources for the books?

Gutsy Girls and Who They Are

Currently, there are 4 books in this amazing collection that each feature a story of inspiration, courage, and guts. The first story is about real-life missionary, Gladys Aylward and her journey to serve God. The next book is a tale of the ten Boom sisters whose love for God carried them through one of the most horrifying times in history, WWII. The third Gutsy Girl is Fanny Crosby, best known as a gifted hymn writer who also spent so much of her life serving others. Book Four introduces readers to Dr. Jennifer Wiseman, a real-life astronomer with a story to tell. Who’s next in the Gutsy Girls lineup? Hit the replay to find out more!

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 150 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Families, and Mary Beth Goff, the creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling while traveling full time across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 11


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!


We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor Sony and their new movie, The Star, the Story of the First Christmas – Coming in Theaters November 17th!

Visit TheStarMovie.com to learn more.


Piano University for Homeschoolers

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

The Piano University online is under the spotlight in Episode #152 of Roadschool Moms. The replay is a live recording by the Roadschool Moms team from the road. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Familiesbroadcasts from Rozwell, New Mexico. Across the country, Mary Beth Goff, the Road Trip Teacher calls in from east central location Illinois near Peoria. The OTR duo are joined by Connie Cullum, creator of The Piano University online. This episode uncovers all the details of using the curriculum from this tried and true resource. Hit the replay to hear more about why music is an important piece of the homeschool puzzle.

Piano is a Great Place to Start

Connie Cullum, a former concert pianist, has 36 years of teaching experience. Her expertise in the musical field and her passion for piano is immediately transparent. First of all, she shares her thoughts on why music is important and how it benefits roadschool experiences for all ages. Consequently, piano keys are visual and easy to learn on. In addition, the Piano University expert discloses answers to other relevant questions.

  • Who can benefit from music lessons?
  • Why piano is a good place to start for any homeschooler’s music program?
  • How to transition to playing other instruments?
  • What is the recommendation if a full-size piano isn’t feasible at home?
  • Where to start at The Piano University?

Piano for the Homeschool Advantage

As a matter of fact, Connie reveals that music makes kids smarter in many other subjects, including math. As a result, this homeschool elective is proven to actually encourage engagement in students of all ages. For example, Connie talks about the historical time period of George Washington and the composer popular at that time, Ludwig Van Beethoven. Further, making these correlations connect history with music and the world events that surround it.

Color Me Musical is the curriculum written and published by Connie Cullum. Most noteworthy, her character creations aid in the learning adventure of music theory. A special offer exclusive to Roadschool Moms listeners is given in this episode that is good for the entire family. (Email the creator using Roadschool Moms as the subject line to learn more.) Not only do podcast fans receive a discounted price but also get access to all 20 ebooks published by Connie Cullum.

More about Roadschool Moms

Looking for a roadmap for your next learning adventure? Scroll through the RSM library on iTunes to find more than 150 podcast replays.

Homeschool enrollment is on the rise. As a result, more and more families are moving into a home on wheels. Further, the Roadschool Moms record this broadcast to present resources that meet the challenges of today’s roadschooler. Kimberly Travaglino, co-founder of Fulltime Families, and Mary Beth Goff, the creator of Road Trip Teacher, team up every week to offer listeners a fresh take on homeschooling while traveling full time across America’s backyard.

Roadschool Moms:  Season 11


Special Thanks to our Network Sponsor!


We’d like to thank our Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network sponsor Sony and their new movie, The Star, the Story of the First Christmas – Coming in Theaters November 17th!

Visit TheStarMovie.com to learn more.