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    Education for Kids

    Vintage Homeschool Moms

    Encouragement for the Christian homeschool mom who wants to raise faithful kids — without losing herself along the way. Veteran homeschool mom and Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network founder Felice Gerwitz brings practical help and heart to the everyday work of homeschooling: teaching methods, routines, faith, family life, and staying encouraged when the days feel long — taking the best of the past to bless the next generation. If you’re a Christian homeschooling mom looking for real encouragement and doable ideas, follow the show.

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    Copyright: © @2018 Media Angels, Inc.

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    Latest Episodes:
    New Year – Relax and Refresh Dec 30, 2019
    Show notes

    Relax and Refresh | The new year is a good time for a faith journey. It is time to take a deep breath and relax and refresh your life. With the new year around the corner now is the time to destress. In this episode, we will discuss how our plans sometimes derail us and how to make the most of the new year. | #podcast #refresh #newyearNew Year Relax and Refresh – Episode 388

    The new year is a good time for a faith journey. It is time to take a deep breath and relax and refresh your life. With the new year around the corner now is the time to destress. In this episode, we will discuss how our plans sometimes derail us and how to make the most of the new year.

    I’m so excited about this episode because I am going to share some ways that won’t break the bank to truly relax and be refreshed as you charge into the new year. In fact, this has helped me so much that I am truly excited about the new year – thank-you Jesus!

    Yes, I am a woman of faith and I am so blessed that I am not doing this alone. I recorded an episode over on our sister network – Ultimate Christian Podcast Network, on a New Year’s Faith Journey, and friends it was life-changing for me because I feel that I have a purpose and so do you!

    Your purpose is your current walk in life. Are you a wife/mom, a husband/dad? Are you a student/kid? This is your current “job” and everything else will fit into place.

    I have many things on my calendar for the new year and I will hit the calendar running! I have a 31-Day Challenge that I am hosting for work at home moms in January. I have several women ministry breakfasts to oversee, in January and February. I am hosting an in-person conference in Tampa, Florida in February. I have my yearly mastermind group in March and April we will visit our college kids and I am presenting at a ministry breakfast in April in Texas! Then, May is my daughter’s graduation. When I look at my calendar I want to skip right over the first six months and look toward a relaxing June, July, and August!

    We can’t do that can we parents? We can’t just say, “Yeah, today I don’t feel like cooking or cleaning or dealing with kids!”

    So, what do we do? We pray – and we put things into perspective. And I for one as I shared earlier am excited because I am not doing this alone! First, I have you guys to encourage and motivate me – thanks so much for your star ratings on iTunes and other podcast apps – thanks for your kind words via email or social media and thanks for being you and a listener!

    New Year Relax and Refresh Begins with Questions:

    So, let’s do this. Are you ready? First, look at your events upcoming – just like I did.

    1. What are those unmoving dates? School days, lessons, appointments, etc.
    2. What are those non-negotiables? The things that we can’t take off our to-do list and put on another’s?

    Once you have those out of the way you can look at the optional things! Can someone else do the grocery shopping or can you invest in ordering online and picking it up – or having things delivered? What a blessing delivery services can be! Yes, there is a cost involved but for me, it saves me money because I am not impulse shopping and only getting what I need!

    One thing that will change in the new year and involves Vintage Homeschool Moms is the new shows. Instead of a new show each week, on some weeks I will be re-launching some of my past podcasts. So, for those of you long-time listeners of Vintage Homeschool Moms – and there are some that have been with me since the beginning, that means you will hear some replays of some favorite shows. I have been recording non-stop for six years and I still feel the Lord has some great things he wants me to share, but some of the previous shows are too good to be buried in the archives.

    New Years Relax and Refresh Takes Simplification:

    You can do this too!

    1. What are some things you can do to give you more time?
    2. What are the things you don’t want to let go of, but know that you must cut back for the sake of time or your own sanity?
    3. Look at this list and make a decision. One year during I decided that writing that Christmas letter, taking a family photo and sending out Christmas cards to my list of over one-hundred people, had to get cut way back. I announced on social media that I loved all of my friends but they would not be getting a card! I sent cards to our relatives and placed a focus on relationships and the poor.

    We can live lives that are joyous by not overtaxing are already taxed systems! What are those things you enjoy but don’t have time for? For me, it was taking a walk and reading. I had not read in years, and currently, I enjoy reading something fun every once in a while. I had to give myself permission! So, friends, this is what I am doing. I am giving you permission to take some time for the things that will help you relax and refresh.

    Here are some relax and refresh suggestions:

    1. An extra long shower or soak in a bath infused with essential oils and salts. Essential oils such as Bergmont (So love it-check it out here) are one of my favorite relaxing oils.
    2. A facial – there are some inexpensive scrubs you can make yourself or use something store-bought.
    3. A foot soak. This is so relaxing and you can do this while reading to the kids or even doing school! Be sure to have a towel nearby in case you need to jump out for the unexpected times!
    4. A foot rub or neck rub. Maybe invest in one of those gadgets or enlist a family member!
    5. Time to read, to bake or to do the thing that you consider relaxing!

    Take the time to be in this present moment. I realized after reading an eye-opening book that was centered on faith that I was living in the past and the future. This can weigh us down! We can think of what could of should have happened, or regrets – or we think about the future and worry about things that may or may not happen. Today, people. Today … focus on the now. The kids in front of you that before you blink your eyes will be grown up and in college or adults like mine. My youngest is now nineteen but even that isn’t for long.

    So, let’s recap.

    1. Look at those things you can’t change. Those unmovable tasks for dates.
    2. Look at ways to increase your time or delegate or take off your list or arrange it.
    3. Look at ways to relax – once a week? No each day.

    This is going to – I promise to change your life. It is today, not tomorrow that we must deal with and today look brighter and brighter to me as I charge into it with the hope that it is going to be the best year. And, I pray this for you as well.

    Next month I have two shows especially geared for kids. The first is Refresh and Relax for Kids – I learned recently that kids are so stressed out and many are on medication just for nerves! We will discuss how to encourage our children to recharge and focus and find those ways to destress. And a show on School and the importance of understanding the time and how it will translate into their futures. I will share something that changed my kid’s lives when they were pre-teens and I hope it will help your children as well! Look for these upcoming episodes in 2020.

    Take care friends, and I pray you are blessed abundantly in 2020~ please check out my other two podcasts, One More Child Podcast and A Few Minutes With God Podcast. Truly, those are my faith-focused podcasts and they keep me grounded and I hope they help you as well!

    The post New Year – Relax and Refresh appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Merry Christmas Keeping Kids Close Dec 23, 2019
    Show notes

    Keeping Kids Close | The to-do list just keeps growing, but keeping kids close should be on the top of the list. In this episode, we will discuss easy ways to include the children and enjoy the holidays. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #ChristmasMerry Christmas Keeping Kids Close – 387

    The to-do list just keeps growing, but keeping kids close should be on the top of the list. In this episode, we will discuss easy ways to include the children and enjoy the holidays.

    Thanks to our sponsor –

    Sometimes I feel like I’m preaching to the choir. You guys are amazing you are dedicated moms who love your kids! But in our busyness, we sometimes lose our focus. Our worst traits come to the forefront and we are overwhelmed by it all – and then life happens. Someone is sick or there is a life-situation to deal with … and never mind the budget! December is a time when sales crop up and everything looks too good to pass up.

    Friends I want to encourage you in this episode of VHM to keep the focus of the holidays on the true meaning of the season and on your kids. It’s easy to say – I shouldn’t get so overwhelmed that but the reality is that all of us do at one point or another. Believe me, it happens to the best of us – even those of you who are super organized! It doesn’t have to be that way and something that happened to me recently showed me that all of the efforts are SO worth it. Especially those of us who are with our kids quite a bit as homeschool parents.

    Keeping Kids Close

    I received the best gift ever from a pastor of our church. When he comes for dinner the kids never left the table. He is entertaining with his Irish accent, and he is so full of stories. He can talk about engines with one of my sons, and then make us laugh with stories of his seminary days. But he is a man that loves the Lord and has the pulse of what is going on in our daily lives. So, back to the gift – the gift he gave me was a compliment about my kids. He talked about the evidence of faith in them, how they loved and honored the Lord. He also asked me why I thought about the reason why. My answer? Besides as an example, and believe me, my husband and I are fallen like the rest of the flock – the reason is the time we spent with our kids.

    Our kids were with us through the thick of things, we worked around our home together, we homeschooled from K-12 – with some college credits for the youngest two. Our favorite vacation was our pop-up camper. We kept things simple and made the best of our time together. Sure, it was work but we enjoyed it! These are some of the best memories we have as a family.

    Ask your children what their favorite activities are and you will be surprised. Often it is the things you think would be the least important, like reading books together as a family. One of my friends does this as a Christmas tradition at their home that they read a book together, even though her children are older.

    We can keep our kids close with activities and also events. Whether you are decorating the tree or going out in the woods – something I’ve never done but would love to do, and chopping one down! Building a snowman, or going on long walks together. Watching a movie and talking about it afterward.

    Fun things to do with the kids while taking turns telling each other favorite family memories:

    1. Popcorn strings. Use a large needle and strong thread to make a popcorn string. You can decorate your inside tree or if you live in the south like I do, decorate an outdoor tree – the outdoor creatures will love you for it!
    2. Make place cards for Christmas – if you downloaded the Christmas planner from the website (UltimateHomeschoolPodcastNetwork.com) you received a template for this. Or make your own.
    3. Make handmade Christmas cards for family members. Be sure to write a Scripture verse.
    4. Create a family “time capsule” – put in current pictures, memorabilia – a picture of a favorite toy or stuffed animal, etc. Each person can put in their own “favorites” card. For example favorite movies, favorite music or favorite books. Put it up in the closet and label it with the year. Take it out in a few years and look at what it contains.
    5. Sit outside around a campfire or star gaze. Enjoy the outdoors (perhaps bundled together) with your family!

    We can experience the joy of the holiday with our families and create those memories that will last the test of time. There is so much more joy and excitement about the coming of Christmas when we spend time with our children, and I know you do!

    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Merry Christmas Keeping Kids Close appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Traditions & Celebrations Dec 16, 2019
    Show notes

    Traditions and Celebrations | Are you looking for something to make Christmas meaningful? How about traditions and celebrations to start off the holiday right? Join Felice Gerwitz with Denise Mira as they share special traditions that won't break the bank. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #christmas #traditionsTraditions & Celebrations Episode 386 with Denise Mira

    Are you looking for something to make Christmas meaningful? How about traditions and celebrations to start off the holiday right? Join Felice Gerwitz with Denise Mira as they share special traditions that won’t break the bank.

    Thanks to our sponsor Overcomer DVD now out in stores!

    Denise Mira, author of No Ordinary Child: Unlocking the Leader Within Your Child, has been married to Gregory for 39 years. They are the parents of five extraordinary home-educated sons. Denise has traveled extensively, inspiring revolutionary change in households as she shares her impactful message for families. She is passionate about helping moms and dads raise No Ordinary Children! Find more inspiration and free tools for success at DeniseMira.com

    Traditions – Celebrations

    1. Traditions & Celebrations – What is the true meaning of Christmas and how can your family traditions bring this to light
    2. Everything good – every perfect GIFT comes from God. James 1:17 so we organically marinate in this concept – Bible and prayer isn’t a religious exercise. It is our LIFE, our first thought, the foundation of our lives so that spills over into our holidays.
    3. Advent calendars come in so many forms these days! incorporate family prayer and scripture reading and memorization in its daily joyful use
    4. Highlight the nativity scene-elevate it -kids love playing with these Fisher-Price, Playmobil or surely there’s a complete set at the Goodwill or Dollar Tree to be had-this can be a time of reading from the Bible the story of Christmas while setting up the pieces, chatting about what it must have been like, really making it real.
    5. Bake Jesus a birthday cake and PRAYFULLY give him gifts (each child gave thought to and contributed something they could give to Jesus by gifting it to a single mom/kids and laid it at the Nativity during a celebration of family worship and prayer)
    6. Santa has never been a focal point or dominant in our decor or chatter – it’s not the religious unpardonable sin, but you get my drift. He’s more of a jovial fictional character who needs Jesus.
    7. Make homemade faith-based ornaments, Christmas cards and/or wall hangings
    8. Buy a kids puzzle 100 or 1000 piece depending on ages on Amazon for the table that is faith-based.
    9. Muppet Christmas Carole movie is an all-time fav and illustrates so much we can apply to life as His disciples in the earth – it could be a whole unit study for the holidays!
    10. Baking for elderly people in our lives-they just can’t cook anymore! seriously our neighbors relied on our holiday goodies for anything homemade
    11. Toys for tots type drives-involve the kids in contributing for NEW items so they feel the pinch as they give (God so loved that He gave)
    12. Attend a candlelight service even at a different church than your own if yours doesn’t do it
    13. Christmas Veggie tales
    14. My friend has lots of grandkids and they all act out the Christmas story as she reads it with a few costume props at their Christmas gathering
    15. My brothers fam makes homemade cards and a traditional butter toffee chocolate candy each year -all the kids sign their name to the card the oldest stamps or whatever-very low cost but it’s their way to give something affordable to lots of people to share Christ’s love and an authentic Christmas catch up letter is often included.
    16. Christmas Eve has always been our ‘ya’ll come celebration’ where we include lots of unsaved friends, lonely people, military singles, everyone brings an appetizer to share. It’s always a rich, warm and loving time of outreach.
    17. Hang a string of lights or flameless candles in each kid’s room-if a tree is available that’s fun too but that might not be doable. the string of lights or cheap LED light votives at Dollar Tree can serve as a teaching on Jesus Light of the World coming to a dark place to shine and we take on His mission to our world and the lights serve as night lights and cozy up to their rooms.
    18. Review the modern-day miracles Jesus has done in your family or loved one’s lives. Choose one each evening-have the kids ponder and come up with some it’s amazing what they are in touch with that God has done! Write them down, reflect, thank Him, set them at His manger.
    19. Ask your kids who is on their heart to help this Christmas. You may be surprised what they come up with – do all you can to accommodate what’s on their hearts to bless those people! They will ‘own it’ and it becomes so real to them.

    The post Traditions & Celebrations appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Stress Free Holiday Tips with Kendra and Fletch Dec 10, 2019
    Show notes

    stress free holiday tips with Kendra and FletchSpecial Guests! Stress-Free Holiday Tips with Kendra & Fletch

    You are in for a treat! Special guests who are joining Felice are Kendra and Fletch – show hosts of the HomeschoolingIRL

    Thanks to our sponsor Overcomer DVD now out in stores!

    On this episode we get real about the holidays, about that “crazy” Uncle Larry, getting the relatives out and into their cars without falling and how to create a family focus that is more than on pumpkin pies and more on what the Lord’s coming means to us. See the show notes below but listen in for all the details, if you want to learn about some of the secrets, those hidden ones on how Kendra and Fletch boycott Black Friday and have a stress-free holiday!

    If you’ve enjoyed this episode please subscribe!

    You can visit our shows on iTunes – mine Vintage Homeschool Mom and Kendra and Fletch – HomeschoolingIRL and follow and rate them! We thank you so much for listening.

    Find out more about Kendra and Fletch here!

    Homeschooling IRL – Website

    Kendra Fletcher – preschoolersandpeace.com/

    Andy Fletcher – www.themangotimes.com/

    Show Notes: Stress Free Holiday Tips with Kendra and Fletch:

    1. The meaning of chillaxing
    2. Pressure on holiday prep
    3. Traditional vs. untraditional celebrations
    4. Movie and Advent instead of Black Friday
    5. Everyone brings a side
    6. Ideas if you travel somewhere else for Thanksgiving or Christmas
    7. Do a big meal another time
    8. Alternatives to traditional gift giving
    9. Free advice from Fletch to husbands that will win you many points!

    Thank you to our Sponsor -Overcomer Movie

    NOW AVAILABLE: OVERCOMER dares to leave you filled with hope, inspired to dream, and asks the question: what do you allow to define you?

    Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team’s state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant in town suddenly shuts down and hundreds of families begin moving away, John must come to grips with the challenges facing his family and his team. Urged by the school’s principal to fill-in and coach a sport he doesn’t know or like, John is frustrated and questioning his worth… until he crosses paths with a student struggling with her own journey.

    Filled with a powerful mix of faith, a twist of humor, and a ton of heart, the Kendrick Brothers return to theaters with OVERCOMER, their newest feature following FACING THE GIANTS, FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, and the #1 box-office hit, WAR ROOM. The inspiring family film stars Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, Shari Rigby, Cameron Arnett, and introduces Aryn Wright-Thompson.

    Click here to buy the DVD!

    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Stress Free Holiday Tips with Kendra and Fletch appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Christmas Season Ministry Dec 09, 2019
    Show notes

    Christmas Season Ministry | Christmas Season Ministry is something we forget because we are so busy. In this episode, we discuss some ways that children can understand the lesson it is better to give. Felice Gerwitz and Denise Mira share their successes with ministry with you! | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast Christmas Season Ministry – Episode 385 with Denise Mira

    Christmas Season Ministry is something we forget because we are so busy. In this episode, we discuss some ways that children can understand the lesson it is better to give. Felice Gerwitz and Denise Mira share their successes with ministry with you!

    Thanks to our sponsor – the movie, Overcomer!

    Denise Mira, author of No Ordinary Child: Unlocking the Leader Within Your Child, has been married to Gregory for 39 years. They are the parents of five extraordinary home-educated sons. Denise has traveled extensively, inspiring revolutionary change in households as she shares her impactful message for families. She is passionate about helping moms and dads raise No Ordinary Children! Find more inspiration and free tools for success at DeniseMira.com

    During the holidays it is always nice to give back. Us this as a checklist starter and listen to this podcast for more information and great ideas. Remember that God has given us seasons — some seasons may focus only on family and others on those in need.

    Ministry During Christmas

    1. Adopt a family
    2. Take care of single mothers/kids (kids keep it a secret or maybe they shouldn’t know who it is if they can’t yet keep a secret)
    3. Angel tree by the late Chuck Colson is a favorite of ours – children of prisoners get new gifts from their Daddy who is incarcerated
    4. Create a shoebox for Operation Christmas Child
    5. Relationships – people are God’s priority
    6. Provide and share with elderly widows and widowers neighbors and invite them to our parties
    7. Pray about your specific Family Ministry: One family we know takes on a hefty schedule to ring the bells for the Salvation Army each year taking shifts to collect the change in the red buckets with their spouses, kids, and the grands!
    8. Write letters of appreciation at the holidays to deployed troops via SolideirAngelsorg
    9. Collect coats, gloves, and hats for the homeless
    10. Baggies of deodorant toothpaste toothbrush snack bars socks kept in the vehicle etc for the homeless beggars
    11. The reason for the season. The overarching theme is to be Jesus — shining His light so bright to the world around us. Be intentional about making this your aim over the holidays.
    12. Add to this list here with your ideas!

    Thank you to our Sponsor -Overcomer Movie

    NOW AVAILABLE: OVERCOMER dares to leave you filled with hope, inspired to dream, and asks the question: what do you allow to define you?

    Life changes overnight for coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team’s state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant in town suddenly shuts down and hundreds of families begin moving away, John must come to grips with the challenges facing his family and his team. Urged by the school’s principal to fill-in and coach a sport he doesn’t know or like, John is frustrated and questioning his worth… until he crosses paths with a student struggling with her own journey.

    Filled with a powerful mix of faith, a twist of humor, and a ton of heart, the Kendrick Brothers return to theaters with OVERCOMER, their newest feature following FACING THE GIANTS, FIREPROOF, COURAGEOUS, and the #1 box-office hit, WAR ROOM. The inspiring family film stars Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, Shari Rigby, Cameron Arnett, and introduces Aryn Wright-Thompson.

    Click here to buy the DVD!

    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Christmas Season Ministry appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Last Minute Christmas Prep Dec 03, 2019
    Show notes

    last minute Christmas prep | Let’s get organized with last minute ideas and 4-point planner. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #homeschoolLast Minute Christmas Prep or any Holiday -Episode 315

    Let’s get organized with last minute holiday prep! Felice shares her 4-square planner and hints on how to get it all done! Take a breath…you’ve got this!

    Whatever holiday you are gearing up for you know there is not enough time in the day to get just the routine chores completed. Holidays sneak up upon us!

    Take a deep breath and start with prayer. This time of the year we often feel like we are on overload.

    I just watched an episode featuring Dr. Oz who talked about holiday stress as over 88% or something similar. And it is for the reasons of adding holiday prep to our already overloaded schedule. He said some interesting things and I think it is important to list these because stress has a part in our ability to cope. And, when we are trying to finish some last minute shopping whether it is food prep or gift shopping the ideal is to try to minimize stress.

    He listed the following things.

    1. Sleep is important.
      1. No drinking 2-3 hours before bed. Drinking alcohol can inhibit good sleep
      2. If you drink, drink water after every alcoholic beverage
    2. Take a deep breath.
      1. Basically, like a timeout.
      2. (Author aside: Oxygen to the brain helps blood flow and helps us think!)
    3. Try not to stress holiday eating.
      1. Eat healthy whenever possible
      2. Eat before you go to a party – use the party for social interaction
      3. Make foods that are healthy
    4. Holiday playlist
      1. Songs that are uplifting
      2. Songs that get you into the Christmas mood

    All of these things are a good thing, but in addition, it does help to plan. As always I use my 4-Square planner. This planner helps to put things in perspective. So, the way I divide my planner is faith – kids – school – household. And, closer to the event, in this case, Christmas my planner will look a bit different: Party Theme / What is On Hand — Do Ahead – To Buy – Day of the Event

    This overall list helps me so much!

    If you want to print out copies go to VHM.com and look for episode 315 – Last Minute Christmas Prep!

    First is the Theme – in this case, it is Christmas. What do you have on hand? In my case I have tablecloths, napkins – I use this year-after-year. I have clear plastic plates left over from Thanksgiving that I will use for appetizers and serve dessert. I have all the utensils and serving trays, etc.

    4-Square Planner #vintagehomeschoolmoms #homeschool 4-Square Planner #vintagehomeschoolmoms #homeschool

    Do Ahead:

    Cleaning the house.

    Make casseroles – green bean casserole, lasagna, mashed potatoes, gravy mix, rolls.

    To Buy: Turkey, ham, potatoes, green beans.

    Day of the Event:

    Pray and celebrate Christmas!
    Breakfast. Make breakfast (other members of the family are in charge of clean up!)

    The time we are eating our main meal:

    Time to put the turkey in the oven:

    Time to take out casseroles before baking.

    Time to bake the casseroles.

    Once casseroles go in I serve appetizers. (Or one hour before casseroles)

    This planning allows me to relax if that is possible just knowing I have a plan makes everything go so much easier. Knowing what you need to do and when helps tremendously and seven days ahead of the event I have a list of each day and what needs to be completed.

    Make this year the best ever! I pray you have a Blessed Christmas and that you enjoy the holiday with family and friends. I’ll be posting our Christmas Eve Tradition podcast next week!

    Thank you to our Sponsor -The Star Movie

    The Star Is Coming Back To Theaters for a Limited Time!

    Experience The Star again December 7 and 8 in select theaters!
    Back by popular demand, you and your family can celebrate the true meaning behind the season. Be sure to check out all of the great resources for your family to use this holiday season! There are discussion guides, along with tons of FREE downloadable activities! Don’t wait, get your tickets today!

    Click here to find a theatre near you!

    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Last Minute Christmas Prep appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Best Ever DIY Christmas Gifts Dec 03, 2019
    Show notes

    Do it yourself or DIY is all the craze, but only when it is simple and the gifts are truly worth giving.The Best Ever DIY Christmas Gifts Episode 311

    I know, we’ve heard it before the best ever DIY Christmas gifts often are more expensive than buying something on sale at the store. But, when you have a large family or many additional family and friends to consider these gifts are a life saver.

    Thanks to our sponsors – The Truth Seekers Mystery Series – brought to you by Media Angels, Inc.

    Do it yourself or DIY is all the craze, but only when it is simple and the gifts are truly worth giving. One year I received bath salts that smelled great and were different colors. When I looked at them closer I noticed the coloring was actually food coloring and could turn my skin the bright yellow, green and purple of the bath salts! Needless to say, this item was not used for baths at all.

    Here are my go-to rules for DIY Christmas Gifts:

    1. Must be tried and true. This is not the time to experiment.
    2. Nice presentation. No one wants to open a box to see a hot-glued mess.
    3. Something someone would actually want. Think cheesecake vs. fruitcake.
    4. Take into account dietary needs. These days there are gluten, dairy and nut allergies. Stay away from these offenders if at all possible.
    5. Gift certificates do not need to be impersonal. Stay tuned to learn more!

    The best every DIY Christmas Gifts can be every bit as charming as a high priced item that more than likely will break, wear out or possibly be something that is returned or regifted. Think about the person you want to gift an item. What are their likes? Dislikes? Take these into account.

    Here are a few of the favorite gifts I have given and received:

    1. Recipe book: Tried and true family recipes. Think about making these into a book online that can be duplicated.
    2. Coupons: The kids have gifted me with coupons for the following and all were much appreciated! Car wash, make beds, wash dishes, babysit, neck rub, vacuuming, organizing.
    3. DIY personal: Bath Salts, Homemade Sanitizer, Rag rug,
    4. Food: Applesauce + recipe for muffins; Tomatoes + recipe for sauce; Pumpkin + recipe for pie; Fat Bombs + recipe; Baked goods + recipe; Mixes + recipe and decorative containers
    5. Gift Certificate to a: nature center, zoo, museums, amusement parks, Amazon, bookstore, coffee store, etc. Make it personal by going with the person whenever possible to enjoy their gift.
    6. Slide presentation with pictures
    7. Prayer audio
    8. Painting or other art projects
    9. Decopauge – a favorite saying or special memento on a wood plaque.
    10. Experience: Rooftop star gazing, impromptu road trip, see hot air balloons, country visit or city visit, camping

    Thank you to our Sponsor -The Star Movie

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    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Best Ever DIY Christmas Gifts appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Best Gift Giving Tips Dec 02, 2019
    Show notes

    Best Gift Giving Tips | Here are some great ideas for gifts that will last throughout the year. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcast #giftgivingBest Gift Giving Tips with Meredith Curtis and Felice Gerwitz Episode 384

    Best Gift Giving Tips are easier than you think. Here are some great ideas for gifts that will last throughout the year.

    Thanks to our sponsor – The Star Movie – limited run December 7 and 8th 2019 – the DVD is still available for purchase.

    Faith brings us together. Happy Anniversary to The Star, which debuted on this day in 2017! Celebrate the film by seeing its re-release in theaters this holiday season, December 7 and 8! Tickets here: http://www.thestarmovie-tickets.com Another great show is here – Gifts You Can’t Unwrap

    I’m so excited to talk Meredith Curtis who is the queen of Christmas! Meredith is the “Christmas girl” and likes to turn her home into a Christmas Wonderland — on a budget!

    Both Meredith and I have big families, and sometimes it is difficult to juggle both school and home. We’re going to talk more about that but, also how to save money while living within the big family budget!

    Here are some quick tips to get you started.

    1. Plan to make schoolwork lighter in December and set some deadlines for Christmas vacation.
    2. Try to do Christmas related unit studies. Read Anne of Green Gables, or a very British Christmas, or study Christmas during Colonial America. We learned not only how people celebrated Christmas, but we would learn as we read through the book aloud. And we also watched Christmas movies and made crafts, created recipes and had tea. When we studied a British Christmas, we tried to cook a goose and we read a Christmas Carol aloud. All of our projects had a purpose. For example handwriting in December focused around Christmas letters and addressing Christmas cards. One of our crafts with wrapping Christmas presents.
    3. One of our projects was making a Christmas budget and Christmas shopping. One of our school projects was creating Christmas gifts.
    4. We baked Christmas cookies. So we would bake cookies and freeze them or we made gifts in a jar. And so by the end of the unit study, we had read all these delightful picture books, but we had also finished all of our presents for neighbors and people at church and all we had to do the final day was just delivered them, you know, right before Christmas.

    A focus on Christmas really put things into perspective and to make the time for the things that we really want to do rather than feeling like we have to do the things on a checkoff list and what better time than Christmas!

    Best Gift Giving Ideas:

    1. Christmas Carols – if you can sing, give the gift of music.
    2. Prayers – record some prayers and create a CD as a gift.
    3. Keepsakes – whether they are handprints or pictures, be sure to put the date on the gift.
    4. Budget gifts – set a price point or limit.
    5. Books – add to a series of books, or begin a new series as a gift with a few books to begin. Shop used book stores.
    6. Movies – something that is a keepsake like The Star Movie for example. Or the Nativity.
    7. Home-baked goods such as breads, quick breads like pumpkin loaf, cinnamon rolls, or cookies.
    8. Mixes – you can give as gifts. Use decorative tins. Be sure to add the recipe taped to the outside.
    9. Create a recipe book, duplicate and give as gifts. You can print out recipe cards for ease if you want to make your own homemade version.
    10. Create gift photo books. These are wonderful and can be stored easily.

    The post Best Gift Giving Tips appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Last Minute Holiday Prep Nov 25, 2019
    Show notes

    Last Minute Holiday Prep | Countdown time is here! Now for some last minute holiday prep ideas. While I agree, everything homemade tastes better, but it isn't always possible with our hectic busy school and holiday schedules. | #podcast #homeschoolpodcastLast-Minute Holiday Prep – Episode 383

    Countdown time is here! Now for some last minute holiday prep ideas. While I agree, everything homemade tastes better, but it isn’t always possible with our hectic busy school and holiday schedules. What is a parent to do? In this podcast, Felice shares her tips with you.

    Thanks to our sponsor Media Angels, check out the Advent Calendar sure to become a keepsake.

    The countdown is on and it is time to get those last-minute things on your list or begin your mega-shopping for the items you need. Through the years I began to build slowly and ramp up my holiday celebration but in the beginning, I tried as much as possible to keep it simple. If you downloaded the holiday planner you have all types of recipes and tips to help, but here they are in a nutshell.

    Look at how much time you have. Is it days or a week before the meal? If you haven’t baked everything from scratch it is okay – you have my permission to buy ready-made. I can’t make all the homemade bread I use to bake, on top of keeping up with all the day-to-day. When I did bake bread everyone was home and we would take one day to dedicate to our baking and freeze many bags to take out at a moment’s notice! If you still want to bake, go for it! Just be sure it is not causing stress.

    Last Minute Holiday Prep For those traveling:

    First, if you are traveling be sure to pack way ahead. Once you do this, your subconscious mind will think about things you forgot. If you are bringing a covered dish or dessert, remember you are traveling. My brother offered to make a smoked turkey and bring it, we’d have to heat it up. Instead, we decided he could bring the sweet potato casserole and banana bread which will travel well.

    Remember, the kids can help! After all most of what we do means we have little ones underfoot. If you can have another friend over to help watch the kids and bake extra for your friend to take home! It is a win-win. If you have older children enlist their help.

    For those hosting the meal.

    The basics of any meal are the main course and the sides. You do not have to get carried away with sides keep it to two or three items max. In this day of gluten-free and allergies, it is good to know what your guests can eat. I keep some things in my freezer to make it easy. For example frozen zucchini noodles. I can heat these up quickly. Or, frozen chocolate cupcakes that are gluten and dairy-free. These can be taken out and defrosted.

    Here are my freeze ahead options: Mashed potatoes and pureed sweet potatoes. I label with a sharpie the ingredients needed. Frozen sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon. I defrost the bag, add the other ingredients and bake it in a pie crust. Green beans are steamed and frozen, ready for the casserole. I have frozen broccoli, mixed vegetables and of course the frozen zucchini spirals I mentioned earlier. If you do not have a freezer full of frozen pre-made food it is okay to buy pre-made at the store or leave enough time for baking the day of. I always had my desserts ready ahead of time. They keep well. I will not use all of this food for the meal – but I have options depending on if I need to pull out more food.

    Each holiday I server lasagna that has been made – dare I say it? For months! It is a family favorite and it feeds a bunch of people! Baked ham is also reasonably priced and feeds a large group of people and typically little children like the ham. Whatever you do keep in mind that accidents happen! No, I haven’t burned a turkey but one year it seemed to take forever to cook.

    A quick day of the feast is to keep breakfast simple. Lunch can also be simple with snacks. We tend to eat mid-day because the prep takes longer than a noon meal and family travels from different places and goes back home on this day. I have appetizers (again think simple – fruit, veggies and dip, cheese, crackers, trail mix) ready and prepared ahead of time. The things I bake – wrapped gouda in crescent roll dough is even prepped ahead of time and in the refrigerator ready to bake.

    The last tip is to love your family, hug your kids and have some games, puzzles, and activities for the kids to do. Play the thankful game with family and friends, and I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday, and may the love of God be with you and your family always!

    The post Last Minute Holiday Prep appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


    Stress Free Holidays Nov 23, 2019
    Show notes

    Stress Free Holiday | Are you ready for a stress-free holiday? With Thanksgiving, Christmas and even birthdays and all of the fun events that happen in full family life! The stress begins to mount. Join Felice Gerwitz and her friend, Denise Mira, you will learn so many insider's tips! | #homeschoolpodcast @podcast #denisemiraStress-Free Holidays Episode 382 ~ with Denise Mira

    Are you ready for stress-free holidays? With Thanksgiving, Christmas and even birthdays and all of the fun events that happen in full family life! The stress begins to mount. Join Felice Gerwitz and her friend, Denise Mira, you will learn so many insider’s tips!

    Thanks to our sponsor A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

    HOMESCHOOL bio: Denise Mira, author of No Ordinary Child: Unlocking the Leader Within Your Child, has been married to Gregory for 39 years. They are the parents of five extraordinary home-educated sons. Denise has traveled extensively, inspiring revolutionary change in households as she shares her impactful message for families. She is passionate about helping moms and dads raise No Ordinary Children! Find more inspiration and free tools for success at DeniseMira.com

    Stress-Free Holidays

    How do we focus on the real reason for the season! No matter what season it is. The fellowship, family, ministry instead of the details that seem to suck us under!

    1. Set a budget-This doesn’t sound ‘spiritual’ at first, but it is massive as it immediately lessens the materialistic aspect. Families are spending 1/3 more than they take in every month in the US. Christmas spending is insanity. The stress and strain and clutter and marriage trouble over this one thing will destroy families. I begin with a list of people and a per-person amount for gifts especially as it adds up so quickly.
    2. Ask adult children to just come celebrate – no gifts!
    3. Cheap decor is abundant! Last year I seriously bought 95% of my decor at the Goodwill and Dollar Tree. No joke. All our stuff was in storage and I didn’t want to mess with digging after moving. It was the most beautiful decor we’ve ever had LOL tablecloths, arrangements, etc. etc. So peaceful. So easy.
    4. Cookie baking days and Craft times – get supplies cheap, Good Will, etc. Ideas include Mason jar snow scenes with votive candles. Girls can bring their cookie dough and bake and talk and talk and talk and talk…
    5. Christmas Puzzles, hot drinks, Christmas music – always have a table with a puzzle going, stuff for eggnog lattes and hot cocoa so when adults walk by it begs them to stop and pause and BE.
    6. We never have a ‘family only’ We have always had strays who crawl into our hearts like lost puppies for seasons, sometimes years and we truly embrace them warts and all – there’s always room for one more, and I always have a gift for them – as simple as a coffee gift card, a candle, a cool mug, a beanie whatever but it’s a gesture of ‘you belong’ and we value YOU.
    7. With young children we always took a night to load up the fifteen-passenger van, play Christmas music and find the best lights in town. We included our Pakistani neighbors too! I’ve begun to do this with my grands now.

    Thank you to our Sponsor – A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Movie!

    Tom Hanks portrays Mister Rogers in A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism, based on the true story of a real-life friendship between Fred Rogers and journalist Tom Junod. After a jaded magazine writer (Emmy winner Matthew Rhys) is assigned a profile of Fred Rogers, he overcomes his skepticism, learning about kindness, love and forgiveness from America’s most beloved neighbor. Click here to watch the trailer and find a theatre near you!

    🎓 Resources from Media Angels: For more on this, explore Christmas Planning Printables from Media Angels.

    The post Stress Free Holidays appeared first on Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.


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