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.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Keep it fun and work together. Tips!

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

Cook and bake food ahead of time and freeze.

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.

Ask guests to bring a dish to share.

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

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