Stress-Free Holidays Are Possible: Here’s How (Holiday Replay)

Discover tips for stress free holidays with careful planning and creative entertaining ideas that wow your guests every time.

Short Cuts – Hints & Holiday Tips by Felice Gerwitz

Discover tips for stress free holidays with careful planning and creative entertaining ideas that wow your guests every time.

How does Felice Gerwitz tirelessly entertain 20+ guests of all ages, use real dishes, cloth tablecloths & napkins with home-made napkin rings, and still remain sane after the last guests have left? With some careful planning, cooking ahead and getting some amazing deals and after holiday sales, Felice pulls off the Martha Steward look year after year.

Learn how to create a wish list and look for deals, bake ahead and freeze, enlist help from your family members and guests, make fresh flower centerpieces that look like you’ve slaved for hours and other tips that Felice has learned during the years. She enjoys baking and entertaining but most of all rejoicing in God and celebrating the special ties between family and friends.

Here is a handout along with a free printable to hang on your wall! Vintage Handouts Stress Free Holidays

Recommended Resources from Media Angels

Introducing the Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels – your ultimate toolkit for a joy-filled and organized holiday season! This 3-pack bundle includes three essential printables: the Christmas Planner, the Christmas Kids Activity Planner, and the Christmas Week Planner, each thoughtfully designed to elevate your festive preparations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Computer Skills for Children

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #232, Computer Skills for Children, with Laura Nolette on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Computer Skills for Children

In “Computer Skills for Children,” Episode #232, Laura Nolette comes out of the background at the Finish Well Podcast to talk to you about an important life skill for your children. Computer skills are life skills. Computers are everywhere and our children are fascinated by all the flashing lights and fun sounds. They usually don’t realize how useful computer are. Let’s talk about working with children as young as 5-years-old to teach them actual computer skills.

 

 

 

 


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Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

Ask most children, “what is a computer for,” and they’ll probably talk about games or watching movies.

Play “Find the Computer”

Computer Parts & Peripherals

Keyboard

Mouse

Monitor

Printers

Cameras

Storage, Files, and Folders

Memory vs. Storage

Everything is made up of files

A marble in a bag in a bag in a bag …

Email & Other Office Applications

Writing

Saving

Printing

Internet & Computer Safety

Stay Aware

Stay Safe

 

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Resources for Mom – Shop at PowerlineProd.com!

Lovely to Behold by Meredith Curtis A Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis Welcome Inn: The Art of Hospitality in Jesus' Name
Friends to the End by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis 7R's of Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. PowerlineProd.com Joyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

God’s Promises for Homeschool Moms

📚 Part of our guide: Homeschool Burnout

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #231, God’s Promises for Homeschool Moms, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

God’s Promises for Homeschool Moms

In “God’s Promises for Homeschool Moms,” Episode, #231, Meredith Curtis invites you to grab hold of the Promises of God for your situations so you can get out of survival mode to rule and reign in Christ. Whether you are needing wisdom, feeling overwhelmed, struggling with guilt, or simply exhausted, there is assurance for you that the Lord is with you and will provide for you in each and every situation.

 

 

 

 


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Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

Do you want to get out of survival mode? Stop feeling overwhelmed? A bubble bath won’t cut it. You need the promises of God!

Exhausted?

Away all night with sick children or nursing baby. Juggling so many different hats that you can’t keep them straight? Weary from your children squabbling all day?

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary. And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. (Isaiah 40: 27-31 NASB)

Confused?

Wondering what curriculum to use? Or how to help your children get along? Want ideas on how to keep the flame from dying out in your marriage? What vaccines to give your children?

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 NASB)

Is Life Hard?

We all go through trials and hard times, but sometimes life hits us curve balls that leave us devastated, unable to go on.

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NASB)

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Or is blameless (Psalm 84:11 NASB)

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.  (Romans 8:28 NASB)

Worried about the Future?

Wondering how you’ll pay the bills this month? Or worried how your son will thrive with Autism? Hoping your teens won’t do the bad things their friends do? Or just worried about the education you are giving your children?

For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NASB)

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NASB)

Feeling Guilty?

Have you yelled at your kids and feel awful about it? Do you struggle stay focused and fell guilty later when things are undone? Maybe you still feel ashamed of the abortion you had as a teenager. Guilt and shame come in all sizes but God’s promises cover all sin.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9 NASB)

As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103: 12 NASB)

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. (Romans 8:1-2 NASB)

Believing & Declaring God’s Promises

Merey’s testimony of standing on the promises of God.

Dueteronomy 28 and Isaiah 54.

Are you a believer in Jesus? If not here’s some Good News!

Image of Jesus Hugging a man

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Resources for Mom – Shop at PowerlineProd.com!

Lovely to Behold by Meredith Curtis A Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis Welcome Inn: The Art of Hospitality in Jesus' Name
Friends to the End by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis 7R's of Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc. PowerlineProd.com Joyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis

Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Between Easter & His Ascension

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #230, Between Easter & His Ascension, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Between Easter & His Ascension

In “Between Easter & His Ascension,” episode #230, Meredith Curtis walks everyone through what happened during the 40 days after Jesus rose from the dead until He gave the Great Commission & ascended into Heaven. Meredith shares passages to cover and ways to bring it alive for children, teens, and parents.

 

 

 

 

 


Colossians 1:28 by Laura Nolette and Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

Easter is often hectic for Christian families. Church services and special events enrich our faith and family get-togethers fill our joy tank, but they leave little time to dig into God’s Word with our kiddos.

If you weren’t able to go through the Holy Week story in the Gospels last week, do it this week. It’s not too late. If you’ve already done that, this is a great week to teach your children what happened next … after Easter!

Doubting Thomas

Jesus answered Doubting Thomas’ faith Questions – apologetics.

Road to Emmaus

Jesus appears to 2 of his disciples on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) – Emmaus Walk.

Jesus Reinstates Peter

Jesus reinstates Peter (go over the story of Peter’s denial Luke 22:31-34). Jesus makes him breakfast & brings him back John 21:15-21) – Fish Fry.

Great Commission

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20 & Mark 16:14-20) & The Plan & Priority of Extending His Kingdom (Acts 1:8) – Suitcase Craft.

Wait for the Holy Spirit

Jesus tells them to wait for the Holy Spirit. Prayer & Fasting.

Ascension

Jesus’ Ascension (Mark 16:19-20 & Luke 24:51-53 & Acts 1:9-11)

Power of the Resurrection

Talk about the Power of the Resurrection

  • 1 Corinthians 15:12-28
  • 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
  • Ephesians 1:15-22
  • Philippians 3

Celebrate Easter Family Devotions by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc.Devotions for the whole family

Celebrate Easter Devotions starts the Saturday before Psalm Sunday and follows the last week of Jesus’ life step by step. However, these devotions don’t end on Easter Sunday. The following week looks at his post-Resurrection days and final ascension. Be reminded this season of the Resurrection Power of Jesus available to His people today.

 

 

 

Blog Post: Holy Week Eggs Learning Activity

Holy Week Egg Activity Blog Post at PowerlineProd.com

 

 

 

 

 

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Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Easter Traditions around the World

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #229, Easter Traditions Around the World, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Easter Traditions around the World

In “Easter Traditions around the World,” episode #229, Meredith Curtis travels the globe to uncover unique and inspirational celebrations in other countries. It’s so fun to learn about people in other places, to see how they rejoice in their faith! You just might want to try some of these traditions with your own family or homeschool co-op.

 

 

 

 

 


Colossians 1:28 by Laura Nolette and Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

Are you ready to travel the world to discover unique and inspirational celebrations in other countries?

All Over the World

  • Lent
  • Palm Sunday – Palms, Procession
  • Foot Washing
  • Easter Parades
  • Hiding Eggs
  • Dying Eggs
  • Decorating Eggs Using Wax
  • New Easter Clothes
  • Easter Monday
  • Easter lilies symbolize rebirth and new beginnings.
  • Baptisms

Oceania & Australia & New Zealand

Easter is during the fall instead of spring.

  • New Zealand
  • Australia
  • Papua New Guinea

Africa

In Africa, Easter is celebrated from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday. Churches decorated with bright cheerful cloth, butterflies, flowers and more. The music is joyous with drums and dancing.

  • Ethiopia
  • Kenya
  • South Africa

Asia

  • China
  • Philippines
  • Jerusalem, Israel

Celebrate Easter Family Devotions by Meredith Curtis at Powerline Productions, Inc.Devotions for the whole family

Celebrate Easter Devotions starts the Saturday before Psalm Sunday and follows the last week of Jesus’ life step by step. However, these devotions don’t end on Easter Sunday. The following week looks at his post-Resurrection days and final ascension. Be reminded this season of the Resurrection Power of Jesus available to His people today.

 

 

 

 

South & Central America

  • Argentina
  • Chilie
  • Honduras (El Salvador & Guatamala)
  • Bermuda
  • Mexico

North America

  • USA
  • Canada

Europe

  • France
  • Russia
  • Ukraine
  • Poland
  • Norway
  • Sweden
  • UK
  • Austria
  • Germany
  • Spain

Italy

            Stations of the Cross

  1. Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane
  2. Jesus is betrayed by Judas & arrested
  3. Jesus is condemned by the Sanhedrin
  4. Jesus is denied by Peter 3 times
  5. Jesus is judged by Pilate
  6. Jesus is scourged and crowned with thorns
  7. Jesus takes up His Cross
  8. Jesus is helped by Simon of Cyrene to carry His Cross
  9. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem
  10. Jesus is Crucified
  11. Jesus promises His Kingdom to the repentant thief
  12. Jesus entrusts Mary and John to each other
  13. Jesus dies on the Cross
  14. Jesus is laid in the tomb
  • Greece
  • Ireland

Blog Post: Holy Week Eggs Learning Activity

Holy Week Egg Activity Blog Post at PowerlineProd.com

 

 

 

 

 

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Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #222, Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters

In “Top Ten Christmas Stress Busters,” episode #222, Meredith Curtis shares the top ten Christmas stress busters for homeschool Moms over the holidays. From personal experience, Meredith understands how the hustle and bustle of Christmas can be overwhelming at times for a homeschool mom. Join her as she shares ten ways to reduce stress and enjoy Christmas this year.

 

 

 


Celebrate Christmas with Unit Studies at Powerline Productions

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

I understand how the hustle and bustle of Christmas can be overwhelming at times for a homeschool mom.

I also encourage you to listen to Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas Finish Well Podcast episode #200 to reduce stress all around. https://ultimateradioshow.com/simple-shortcuts-to-a-stress-free-christmas/

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #200, Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas , with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focus on Jesus

Start each day with prayer and one or two Christmas carols. Read a Scripture passage.

Fresh Air

Get fresh air each day with a brisk walk around the block or a leisurely jog. If the weather is nice, play outside. If it’s snowing, build a snowman.

Smells

Sniff a lemon, boil cinnamon sticks in water on the stove, or burn your favorite scented candle (vanilla, citrus, peppermint, lavender, jasmine).

Exercise

Get some exercise! Ride a bike, go sledding, hike, play touch football, or work out at the gym.

Quiet & Dark

After the kids go to bed, sit with your husband, or your parents, or your kids, or alone, with all the lights off in the house except for the Christmas lights. Enjoy the quiet.

Relaxing our Bodies. Relaxing Our Minds

Spontaneous Fun

Cancel school and have a Christmas movie day. Drive around and look at lights. Get out some board games and have fun!

Listen

Play Christmas carols in the house and in the car when you drive. Play classical music, especially Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah. Listen to water flowing in a stream or waterfall.

Relax & Read

Drink coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate and read a cozy mystery while the kids watch a Christmas movie. I have two suggestions for you.

Old-Fashioned Christmas Murder by Meredith Curtis Legend of the Candy Cane Murder by Meredith Curtis

Massage for Mom

Get a babysitter and go get a massage.

Refresh Your Soul

Spend some time each day reading the entire Christmas story from Zechariah & Elizabeth to the Flight into Egypt. This will refresh your soul!

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Resources

Celebrate Christmas with Anne of Green Gables by Meredith Currtis from Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Christmas with a Traveling Dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette from Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis from Powerline Productions, Inc.

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #221, Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida

In “Celebrate Christmas in Central Florida,” episode #221, Meredith Curtis takes your homeschool family to sunny Central Florida for the holidays in 2024. She shares famous and not-so-famous festive adventures for those who are visiting for the holidays as well as those who call Central Florida home. Inspirational, educational, and just plain fun Christmas experiences await!

 

 

 


Celebrate Christmas with Unit Studies at Powerline Productions

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

So many people visit Central Florida at Christmastime to enjoy the theme parks. For those who want something different and those who live in Central Florida, here are some fun ways to celebrate Christmas. I live in Central Florida so I am sharing some of my favorite places to go and things to do.

Saint Augustine

Historic St. Augustine, the continuously inhabited city in the USA, offer her beautiful annual Nights of Lights from Saturday, November 23, 2024, to January 26, 2025. Three million lights await you for a spectacular end to a family field trip. The trains and trolleys offer special seasonal tours, too.

https://www.visitstaugustine.com/event/nights-lights

Christmas in the Country

This is an annual Christmas event for our family and friends. Put on every year by River of Life Church, this event takes place at 130 Garfield Rd, Enterprise, FL, United States, Florida 32725.

Enjoy a FREE, family-friendly, one of a kind, holiday event!

Check out our 4-H display. Navigate a merry melt-proof maze. Create your very own ornament,
enjoy free cocoa, and roast marshmallows over a bonfire on the lakefront. Hot dogs or bottled water are available for a $1 Donation. Don’t miss our Hayride through a Christmas Wonderland!

Starts the day after Thanksgiving and open the following days: 11/29, 11/30, 12/2, 12/6, 12/7, 12/13, 12/14, 12/20.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1236932000687164/?active_tab=discussion

Fort Christmas Historical Park’s Cracker Christmas

Mark your calendar for December 7-8, 2024. From 10 am to 4 pm, step back in time with a Florida Cracker Christmas celebration. Enjoy pioneer demonstrations and sample some gator meat.

The park includes a replica of a fort built in 1837 during the Second Seminole Indian War; a traditional Florida “Cracker” house and eight pioneer homes; a schoolhouse and lunchroom; a sugar cane mill and other historical farming equipment.

https://www.facebook.com/events/466759382773764

Parades

Yes, there are parades at all the theme parks, but Central Florida cities have their own parades, too.

Sanford’s annual Christmas parade is on December 14, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1231111001281827/

Mount Dora’s annual Christmas parade is early in the morning on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/881104570200250

Minneola’s Moonlight Christmas parade is on December 14, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/387873457731304/

The City of Oviedo’s Holiday Parade is in the evening on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/881104570200250/

Boat Parades

Mount Dora has a boat parade on Lake Beauclair on December 7, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/3825059924415876/

Daytona Christmas Boat Parade is held in Daytona Beach, featuring decorated boats and a festive atmosphere.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2217032025364914/

There is also a boat parade in Cocoa Beach on December 14, 2024.

Home Tour

Stetson Mansion Tour takes you inside Florida’s Most Historic Home, c1886, of iconic hat maker JB Stetson, Florida’s First Snowbird. This home is beautifully decorated for Christmas.

https://www.facebook.com/stetsonmansiontours

The Holiday Candlelight Tour lets visitors explore DeBary Hall during holiday evenings when candlelight will fill the 19th century mansion with a warm glow, accentuating its historic treasures and Christmas decorations. Guests will be escorted to the mansion for an open style tour. The mansion, once owned by the prominent DeBary family, will be decorated with many Christmas trees, wreaths, and other festive adornments.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2692456947592494/

Lake Helen Christmas Home & Garden Tour visits beautifully decorated Historic Homes, Churches, Buildings and Local Gardens. Enjoy the Christmas Marketplace for all of your gift giving needs and delicious refreshments, as well as live entertainment!

December 7th & 8th, 12:30 PM-5:30 PM. Tour Begins at Hopkins Hall: 150 Connecticut Ave, Lake Helen, FL 32744.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1357305044410133/1357305051076799/

Living Nativity/Walk Thru Bethlehem

During this immersive experience, you will take a stroll through Bethlehem. You will see the guards at the front gate, talk to the people going about their daily lives, and hear the gossip about a strange couple who are staying in a stable.

 This year, we have a brand-new layout for the city of Bethlehem that will bring you up close and personal with the characters and story of Christmas. Even if you have been before, this will be a new experience!

 Whether it is your first Walk Through Bethlehem, or it is part of your Christmas tradition, we can’t wait to see you in Bethlehem!

Visit our family’s favorite Walk thru Bethlehem on December 7-8 or 13-15, 2024 at Crossroads Church, Daytona Beach.

https://crbible.com/events/

Experience the story of the birth of our savior Jesus Christ at the Living Nativity! The Biblical story will be narrated and portrayed by church members on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Children will have an opportunity to pet live animals. Cookies, hot cocoa and coffee will be served outside of the Fellowship Hall throughout the evening. We will also have coloring/craft tables set up for the little ones. Everyone is welcome!

Visit Beachside Baptist Church on December 18, 2024, in New Smyrna Beach.

https://www.beachsidebaptist.com/living-nativity/

Bring your family and friends to see Bethlehem at the time of Jesus’ birth in this unique living nativity experience on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Begin your guided tour in the sanctuary. Follow the star to the manger, rejoice with the angels, hear the music, see the animals, pay your taxes to the Roman soldiers, and enjoy the festive marketplace. Your journey concludes with the joy of the nativity.

https://www.facebook.com/events/831861212189288

Concerts, Outdoor Movies, & More

St. Luke’s AMC Annual Christmas Concerts are “Sounds of the Seasons” from Thursday 12/12 24 to 12/15/24.

https://www.facebook.com/events/458290197338715/458290214005380/

Christmas movies at parks, churches, and downtowns.

Lights everywhere! Two favorites near me – 3 homes / owners of nursery and Lake Mary City Hall.

Ballets, concerts, Handel’s Messiah singalong, Christian concerts.

High Tea Aboard the Barbara Lee

Enjoy the beautiful decorations of the season while enjoying a wide array of endless tea along with savory finger sandwiches, scones with jelly and bite size sweets.

This 3-hour cruise on the St Johns River will take you back to a time when things were peaceful and pretty. Celebrate your sister or the women in your life.

You can dress casually or wear your favorite dress and hat. Gentlemen can break out their favorite top hat and long coat.

Live entertainment by Harpist and Composer Rene Devia. Friday December 20, 2024.

https://www.facebook.com/events/3805730683041097/

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Resources

Celebrate Christmas with Anne of Green Gables by Meredith Currtis from Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Christmas with a Traveling Dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette from Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis from Powerline Productions, Inc.

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Science Labs on a Budget: Hands-On Learning at Home

📚 Part of our guide: Homeschool Science

Tried and True Science Labs |Tried and true science labs depend on good equipment but also a good curriculum. |j #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #teachingsciencelabs

Science Labs on a Shoestring Budget

Want to do science at home? Tried and true science labs are finally easy to do at home. With labs on a shoe-string budget, you will find the information you need to stock your science lab at home.

What is contained in a tried and true science lab?

All purpose science kit.

Biology Kit

Chemistry Kit

Physics Kit

Tips on keeping all of your materials organized.

Where to purchase “real” science equipment.

Science labs depend on good equipment but also a good curriculum. This book has hundreds of recommended books and many are available in libraries.

Tried and true lab sheets!

An added bonus to this book contains blank science experiment sheets – we’ve used these over the years with our children and hundreds of children have used them in science labs I’ve hosted. These lab sheets will keep the kid’s notes organized and are great for science lab notebooks.

Author and publisher, Felice Gerwitz of Media Angels, Inc. will discuss tried and true science labs to incorporate science labs within the home – this presentation is taken from her book, Teaching Science and Having Fun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #200, Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas , with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas

In “Simple Shortcuts to a Stress-Free Christmas,” episode #200, Meredith Curtis reminds you that there are easier ways to do the festive Christmas traditions that make lifetime memories. From trimming the tree, decorating the gingerbread house, crafting, hospitality, cooking, and baking – there’s always an easier, quicker, less stressful way! Enjoy Christmas more this year. Hey! You might even have time to relax and focus on the reason for the season.

Happy 200th Episode FinishWell Podcast from Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

 


 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

Moms want to create a picture-perfect Christmas to give their families the best and make lifetime memories. Yet, the stress of it all mars the experience. Join me in learning the easier way to do those wonderful Christmasy things.

Gingerbread house

Buy an already put together gingerbread house or create a Christmas tree forest with sugar cones, frosting, and candy.

Trimming the Tree

Each family member gets a handful of ornaments and a section of the tree.

Christmas Cut-Out Cookies

Instead of making your own dough and cutting out shapes, purchase gingerbread or sugar cookies and let kids decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Dinner Devotions

When it seems impossible to get the family together for Christmas devotions, try this. Read a short passage before dinner and sing 1 carol. Then have someone say the blessing.

Keep Crafting Simple

Look for crafts for young children – they are always easy and older kids add their own pizzazz.  Or sign kids up for a workshop at 4H or a nearby fabric or hobby store.

  • Tube of material, bead, marble, bead, marble
  • Aluminum star
  • Clear plastic ornaments to fill
  • Potpourri Hoops
  • Wreaths

Save Money By Drawing Names

Christmas gifts for extended family can get costly. Cut costs by drawing names and giving a price cap for the gifts.

Finding Family Time

Choose an evening (like Mon or Tues) and have a list of ideas (drive to see lights, watch a Christmas movie, visit a Live Nativity Scene) and take turns choosing.

Make Cleaning & Cooking a Family Project

Keep it fun and work together. Tips!

Combine Christmas & Homeschooling

Christmas unit studies let you prepare for Christmas while you learn.

Freeze Holiday Dishes & Desserts

Cook and bake food ahead of time and freeze.

One Dough – Many Cookies

Make up your favorite chocolate chip recipe x 10 (I use Toll House) but leave out the chocolate chips. Freeze the dough in batches. Take out a batch and add your favorite things: white chocolate chips and peppermint, butterscotch chips and sprinkle the top with cinnamon, chocolate chips, raisins and nuts, etc.

Let Guests Cook Too

Ask guests to bring a dish to share.

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100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

Celebrate holidays with these festive, fun books and unit studies:

Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Easter Devotions Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Christmas Thoughts and Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Holiday Hospitality Homeschool Unit Study

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #199, Holiday Hospitality Homeschool Unit Study, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Holiday Hospitality Homeschool Unit Study

In “Holiday Hospitality Homeschool Unit Study,” episode #199, Meredith Curtis helps you combine holiday hospitality and homeschooling in a fun way! Here is a FREE easy unit study right in the podcast with Scriptures, read aloud ideas, and practical activities each day to get ready for company and learn life skills at the same time! Turn welcoming people into your home into a family project and festive way to pass on values, character, and life skills.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

It’s that time of year where relatives gather. Are they heading to your house this year? Don’t panic – use school time to get ready while you build memories with your kids.

Working Together as a Family:

Tips for peaceful and efficient working together.

Day 1 – Prepare the House

Scripture: I Peter 4:8-9. Discuss show love and hospitality are related.

Talk about Cleaning Basics & Clean the House

  • Straighten/Tidy
  • Dust & Vacuum
  • Clean Bathrooms
  • Mop Floors
  • Change Sheets
  • Prepare Guest Room

Lunch & Read Aloud.

Decorate the House for Holiday.

Day 2 – Shop/Make Gifts & Stocking Stuffers

Scripture: Romans 12:12-20. Discuss how to live these principles out with your guests.

Talk about Gifts & Budgets, Make a List and Shop for Gifts in store or online.

Lunch and Read Aloud.

Wrap Gifts.

Day 3 – Plan Menu/Shop

Scripture: Matthew 25:34-46. How is showing hospitality to your guests serving Jesus?

Make menus for days guests’ visit including snacks to have on hand. Then create a shopping list together.

Lunch and read aloud.

Shop. Tips to Shop as a team.

Day 4 – Prepare/Freeze the Food

Scripture: Genesis 18:1-15. How do Abraham and Sarah show hospitality to their visitors? How can you imitate their example?

Many things can be made and frozen. Spend the day cooking with a break for lunch and read aloud.

Day 5 – Plan the Fun

Scripture: Luke 14:12-17. How can you include the lonely and needy in this holiday’s activities?

Brainstorm ideas for holiday fun in your hometown and fun things to do at home. Make a tentative/flexible plan (important for certain family members to know that it’s flexible).

Lunch and read aloud.

Finishing touches.

Sign up for our Newsletter

100 Homeschool Hacks by Meredith CurtisSign up for our updates and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks FREE. Sign up here.

 

 

 

 

 

Resources

Celebrate holidays with these festive, fun books and unit studies:

Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Easter Devotions Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Christmas Thoughts and Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!