Finish Well

Holiday Hospitality Homeschool Unit Study

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

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.

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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!

7 Festive Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Cultivate Gratitude

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #198, 7 Festive Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Cultivate Gratitude, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

7 Festive Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Cultivate Gratitude

In “7 Festive Fun Thanksgiving Traditions to Cultivate Gratitude,” episode #198, Meredith Curtis inspires homeschooling families with meaningful ways to give thanks this year. God has been good to us this year and Thanksgiving is a great day to let Him and each other know how thankful we are! Traditions include Praise Breakfast, Gratitude Guessing Game, Thankful Tree, Blessing Place cards, Pass the Praise, Old-Fashioned Hymn Sing, and Thankful Poster. Try one this year and watch gratitude grow in every heart.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

God is good. His goodness is everywhere but we often focus on what we don’t have rather than our blessings. These traditions are easy and fun, yet they truly cultivate gratitude!

Praise Breakfast

Supplies needed: yummy breakfast food, instrument (guitar or keys), or online music, and words to songs.

Gratitude Guessing Game

Supplies needed: very small whiteboard, dry erase markers, and notebook paper for each family member.

Thankful Tree

Supplies needed: poster board, markers, and brown/orange/yellow/red construction paper.

Blessing Place Cards & Scripture Cards

Supplies needed: cardstock, markers, and Bible.

Pass the Praise

Supplies needed: basket of candy corn.

Old-Fashioned Hymn Sing

Supplies needed: hymnal and instrument (piano, guitar) or online music.

Thankful Poster

Supplies needed: poster board and colorful markers.

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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!

7 Ways Homeschool Families Can Stand with Israel

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #197, 7 Ways Homeschool Families Can Stand with Israel, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

7 Ways Homeschool Families Can Stand with Israel

In “7 Ways Homeschool Families Can Stand with Israel,” episode #197, Meredith Curtis gives practical things homeschooling families can do to stand with Israel during this frightening time: pray, meet practical needs, combat antisemitism – do something! With so misinformation swirling around, we can also teach our children about Israel’s ancient history, Israel’s modern history, and why Israel is such an important ally in the Middle East.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

After the horrific invasion, brutal torture, and heinous murder of Israeli citizens by Hamas on October 7, many homeschooling families want to stand with Israel. Here are 7 ways you can show support to the nation of Israel.

If you don’t know what happened on October 7, 2023, here is a description: https://www.idf.il/en/mini-sites/hamas-israel-war-articles-videos-and-more/general-articles/what-happened-in-the-october-7th-massacre/

Prayer

Prayer changes things! God hears our prayers and even commands His people in Psalm 122:7 to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Here are strategic prayers for the Israeli-Hamas Conflict – yes I know some of these will take a miracle but that’s what the Lord does!

  • Revival in the Middle East – millions turning to Jesus
  • Protection and release of all hostages taken on Oct. 7
  • Healing for all those mourning the death and kidnapping of loved ones
  • Strength for those having to see the carnage
  • Protection from daily rockets attacking Israeli cities
  • Protection for innocent Palestinians who did not leave Gaza when warned weeks ago
  • Wisdom for leadership in Israel
  • Swift Israeli victory against Hamas
  • Reconciliation between Israel and her Arab neighbors
  • Iran would have no money to support Hamas and Hezbollah
  • Hamas would not use Palestinians or hostages as human shields
  • Truth in the media
  • Israel’s Arab neighbors would no longer want Israel to stop existing, but welcome her to the Middle East – Healing

Find Out what is Happening Locally

Is there a synagogue in your area? They may be providing things for the Israeli soldiers or victims of the terrorist attack on October 7. That might be a great place to give items of clothing, blankets, or even financial gifts.

Combat Antisemitism

If you watch the news, you can hear angry chants against Jewish people in the Pro-Palestinian/Hamas demonstrations. So far, Jewish students have been verbally abused by other students (and a professor), manhandled, and threatened. We don’t want this to escalate.

My sister Julie’s text to me. We can be like Julie!

Teach Children about Ancient Israel History

If you have read the Old Testament, you know a little about the history of the Jewish people.

  • Calling of Abraham
  • Patriarchs
  • Egypt to Slavery in Egypt
  • Taking the Promised Land
  • Judges – Kings – Captivity
  • Rebuilding of Wall & Temple
  • Greeks – Kingdom of Judea – Roman Empire
  • Destruction of the Temple in 70 AD & Diaspora

Teach Children about Modern Middle East History

  • Turks – Ottoman Empire – World War I
  • Balfour Declaration
  • British Mandate
  • Creation of Jordan
  • Holocaust
  • Creation of Modern Israel – 1948

Explain to Children Why Israel is Such an Important US Ally.

  • Israel shares our values of freedom, government by the people. Israel stands at our side militarily, in trade, and technological innovation. She is one of our biggest trade partners.
  • Israel & US share intelligence & Israel helps US with security threats
  • Israel helps US learn to employ counterterrorism at home
  • Cold War to Today
  • Israel develops advanced military technology & shares with US (Iron Dome)
  • Israel is a source of wisdom and creativity when it comes to agriculture, renewable energy, water conservation, recycling, technology, and computers.
  • Israel is a free democracy in the Middle East. Their citizens enjoy their God-given freedoms – including freedom to worship (Jewish, Christian, Muslim).
  • While Arab nations deny that Israel has a right to exist and cry out “death to Israel,” all Israel wants is to live in peace. Israel only goes to war when attacked and before she attacks, she sends leaflets warning people what is coming and urging them to flee.

Take a Stand Like Corrie

  • Less than 100 years ago, a madman tried to exterminate the Jews. Hitler hated Jews. No one stopped him. What would you have done?
  • A middle-aged Dutch woman and her father and sister stood against the Nazis by taking in Jews and hiding them in a secret room. Eventually, they were arrested and sent to concentration camps. Two died and one lived. Corrie ten Boom spent the rest of her life traveling to speak on forgiveness and having a relationship with Jesus.
  • When the time came, Corrie loved truth and righteousness more than her own life. She protected the Jewish people God brought into her life.
  • All of us can do something. We can speak out. We can pray. We can call our US and state representatives and senators to stand with Israel. We can share news articles and videos on social media. We can love.

God bless you and God bless Israel.

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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

Learn more about Israel, the Middle East, and the rest of 20th Century history. The HIS Story of the 20thCentury series comes with a textbook and workbook with timelines, narration, and projects to make the 20thcentury come alive!

HIS Story of the 20th Century by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century: High School Workbook by Meredith Curtis HIS Story of the 20th Century High School Workbook Answer Key HIS Story of the 20th Century Middle School Workbook

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Stress-Free Weddings II: The Team

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #196, Stress-Free Weddings II: The Team, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Stress-Free Weddings II: The Team

In “Stress-Free Weddings II: The Team,” episode #196, Meredith Curtis talks to families with a wedding on the horizon who long for a peaceful, joy-filled celebration.  In part II, Meredith helps you gather and utilize a team of friends and family members to get rid of chaos and enjoy smooth sailing through the photo shoots, parties, rehearsal, and wedding day. From the practical to the relational, you will receive wisdom from an experienced Mother of the Bride.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

You just found out! Celebrate, invest emotionally, make a plan with the couple

Take a Deep Breath!

In Stress-Free Weddings I: The Task, I share all the things that are part of planning a wedding. I encouraged the wedding planner (usually mom) to relax, celebrate, and pray first. Often a quiet dinner with the couple where they are free to dream big (later you can pare down) is a great start to the wedding festivities.

Another review – Things to remember

  • You are throwing a party for your family & friends to celebrate
  • You can be simple (low cost) or extravagant
  • A Wedding Planner with a Timetable is essential – I made copies of certain pages for certain people
  • God is the God of Miracles!
  • Pastor/Premarital Counseling
  • Bride & Groom Choose Support Team (wedding party)
  • Mom, you choose your support team because usually the wedding coordinator is you!

Who Can Be Part of Your Team

  • Parents of the Bride & Groom
  • Wedding Party Members
  • Siblings, Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Other Family Members
  • Friends from Church
  • People Who Just Love a Wedding
  • Paid People – Photographer, Caterer, Florist, etc.

How Can You Utilize Your Team

To have a small or big part of the special day or preparations beforehand

  • Match skills to tasks
  • My friend Pattie had 1 task – to get the bride down the aisle on time
  • Communicate with others in charge of things (e.g. Rehearsal/Rehearsal dinner blunder)

Here are some things they might do

  • Pass out corsages & boutenierres
  • Carry an “Emergency Kit”
  • Keep Everyone Hydrated
  • Set up Tables for Reception
  • Decorate Tables for Reception
  • Build a Dance Floor
  • Cook and Bring Food for Reception
  • Make Wedding Veil
  • Make Silk Flower Arrangments
  • Make Decorations
  • Keep Punch Bowl Filled
  • Decorate Church (we had wedding party do this after rehearsal – everyone had a task and it went super quick!)
  • Set Up Photo Booth
  • Take Extra Photos during Ceremony & Reception (Wanda)
  • Designate a Photographer at each Pre-Wedding Event
  • Attend Guest Book
  • Play Piano or do a Solo

Ways to Communicate with Team

  • Keep a list – printed or in phone
  • Keep Everything CLEAR & CONCISE (people tune you out if you go into too much detail)
  • Repsonsbility Cards for Wedding Party
  • Talk with Anyone who is Offering to Pay for Part of the Wedding (have a backup plan)
  • Group Text (send reminders but don’t be annoying)
  • Lots of Smiles & Thank You’s
  • Thank You Cards

Be careful

Only use volunteers who are

  • Faithful
  • On time
  • Responsible
  • Kind

Things to NOT Delegate

  • Paying Vendors & Pastor
  • Helping Bride Get Ready
  • Welcoming/Greeting Guests

Wedding Planner Notebook

I created a wedding planner for my daughters and several close friends. Some opted to use the print version and other wanted the eBook to print only the pages that applied to them.

Everything you need is here!

Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner by Meredith Curtis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner eBook at PowerlineProd.com: https://www.powerlineprod.com/shop/ultimate-christian-wedding-planner/

Purchase Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner in print at Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Christian-Wedding-Planner-Meredith/dp/179515425X

You pick and choose what you want to include and not include. You choose where the money is spent. You choose how and when and where the big day will take place. A wedding planner keeps you organized.

With checklists and schedules,  you will be able to keep you head in all the planning. Family trees, memory pages, comparison pages, budget sheets, vendor payment tracking charts, table arrangement planners, sample invitations, sample schedules, and sample itineraries. But, there’s more!

The Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner has prayers, studies, and meditations to help prepare to be a godly wife. Discover where wedding traditions and symbols come from. Learn all about wedding protocol and who is responsible for what. And lots of Christian encouragment!

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

 

Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner by Meredith Curtis Before the Vows Are Made - Premarital Counseling Workbook for Engaged Couples Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & Family God's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School Class
Real Men Talk About Freedom, Girls, & Marriage Real Men 103: Leadership God's Girls Talk About Guys, Virtue, & Marriage by Meredith Curtis God Girls 105: Homemaking (1 Credit High School Life Skills/Character Class) by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Stress-Free Weddings I: The Task

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #195, Stress-Free Weddings I: The Task, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Stress-Free Weddings I: The Task

In “Stress-Free Weddings I: The Task,” episode #196, Meredith Curtis talks to families with a wedding on the horizon who long for a peaceful, joy-filled celebration.  In part I, Meredith helps you take a deep breath, list and prioritize expectations, and plod peacefully through the planning. She looks at the ceremony, guests, venues, photography, food, clothing, decorations, music, budget, and itinerary. From the practical to the relational, you will receive wisdom from an experienced Mother of the Bride.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

You just found out! Celebrate, invest emotionally, make a plan with the couple

Take a Deep Breath!

This is exciting! Celebrate the engagement!

Pray – What is God’s will?

Quiet Dinner – “What are you thinking?”

Dream Big – pare down

Things to remember

  • You are throwing a party for your family & friends to celebrate
  • You can be simple (low cost) or extravagant
  • A Wedding Planner with a Timetable is essential
  • God is the God of Miracles!
  • Pastor/Premarital Counseling
  • Bride & Groom Choose Support Team (wedding party)
  • Mom, you choose your support team because usually the wedding coordinator is you!

Ceremony

  • Intimate? Large? Honoring Christ? Honoring Parents & One Another?
  • Where?
  • Special Things (Unity Candle, Communion, Sing to One Another)
  • Remember you are getting ready for a Marriage – keep your eyes on the important thing!

Guests

Who do you want to celebrate with you?

  • Bride, Groom, Parents Lists
  • Save the Date, Invitations
  • Gifts – Thank You’s
  • Out of Towners

Venues

  • Choose, Reserve, Downpayment for Venues/Choose Date
  • Ceremony—Church, Garden, Other?
  • Reception—Fellowship Hall,

Photography

  • Photos last a lifetime
  • Photographer, Guests, Table Cameras
  • Place to upload photos

Food

Caterer or Do Food Self

  • Cake & Punch
  • Dessert Bar
  • Breakfast or Brunch Buffet
  • Sit Down Dinner
  • Casual Lunch Buffet

Clothing

  • Wedding Gown
  • Girl’s Dresses
  • Guys Tuxes

Decorations

  • What “feel” do you want?
  • Start a Shared Pinterest Board

Money

  • Make a Budget
  • Avoid Debt
  • Priorities (What matters most? What do you want to remember?)

To-Do Lists

A Wedding Planner with a Timetable is essential

  • Plan Ceremony/Itinerary
  • Plan Reception/Itinerary
  • Choose Emcee
  • Choose Music & Musicians (or Audio)
  • Pick Out, Address, & Mail Invitations
  • Choose & Hire Photographer
  • Bridal Registry
  • Parties: Shower, Bridesmaid Luncheon, Bachelor Party

Wedding Planner Notebook

I created a wedding planner for my daughters and several close friends. Some opted to use the print version and other wanted the eBook to print only the pages that applied to them.

Everything you need is here!

 

Before the Vows are Made - Premarital Counseling Workbook for Engage Couples by Pastor Mike and Meredith Curtis

 

You pick and choose what you want to include and not include. You choose where the money is spent. You choose how and when and where the big day will take place. A wedding planner keeps you organized.

With checklists and schedules,  you will be able to keep you head in all the planning. Family trees, memory pages, comparison pages, budget sheets, vendor payment tracking charts, table arrangement planners, sample invitations, sample schedules, and sample itineraries. But, there’s more!

The Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner has prayers, studies, and meditations to help prepare to be a godly wife. Discover where wedding traditions and symbols come from. Learn all about wedding protocol and who is responsible for what. And lots of Christian encouragement!

 

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

 

Ultimate Christian Wedding Planner by Meredith Curtis Before the Vows Are Made - Premarital Counseling Workbook for Engaged Couples Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & Family God's Girls 103: Courship, Marriage, and the Christian Family High School Class
Real Men Talk About Freedom, Girls, & Marriage Real Men 103: Leadership God's Girls Talk About Guys, Virtue, & Marriage by Meredith Curtis God Girls 105: Homemaking (1 Credit High School Life Skills/Character Class) by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Backyard Archaeology Dig

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #194, Backyard Archaeology Dig, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Backyard Archaeology Dig

In “Backyard Archaeology Dig,” Episode, #194, Meredith Curtis invites you to dig a big hole in the backyard for educational purposes. Hosting an archaeology dig for your family and a few friends is a great way to experience archaeology and its investigation into history. If you’re willing to make and break artifacts, dig a hole, string it into sections, and let kids dig with a small trowel and brush, you can go on an amazing educational adventure! Meredith explains how to prepare the artifacts, set up the dig, and “clean” the finds.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

What is archaeology and what do archaeologists do?

Archaeology always fascinated my kids but just for a moment. I could never pass on how fascinating the work could be. Worksheets didn’t help. Until….

Let’s Have Our Own Dig!

We decided to have our own dig! Wow! It sounded exciting to the boys to dig in the dirt.

Lessons from our first dig

Preparing Artifacts

Prepare artifacts in Ancient History Homeschool Co-op.

First Layer: Minoan Mosaics; Second: Egyptian Clay Pots; Top Layer: Greek Plates

Readying the Dig Site

Dig Large Rectangle

Break and Layer Artifacts carefully with a layer of dirt between

Stakes every 12 feet around the hole. Tie strings to make a checkerboard. Number sections.

Unearthing Treasures & Cleaning

Wear loose modest comfortable clothing. Hyrdate, hydrate, hydrate. Snack table with fruit and granola bars.

Open in prayer.

Dig with small plastic beach toy shovels (gentle – won’t destroy artifact) and brushes. Shout and cheer whenever someone finds an artifact or piece of artifact.

Take a photo, measure depth, record all information, brush off dirt, another photo, clean artifact at Research tent.

Researchers keep log.

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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.

 

 

 

 

 

Homeschool History Party Resources: Shop at PowerlineProd.com

Let's Have Our Own Archaeological Dig by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Let's Have Our Own Olympic Games

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Backyard Ancient Greek Olympics

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #193, Backyard Ancient Greek Olympics, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Backyard Ancient Greek Olympics

In “Backyard Ancient Greek Olympics,” Episode, #193, Meredith Curtis invites you to have your own Ancient Greek Olympics in the backyard. Don’t worry! We’ll wear clothes and dedicate the games to Jesus instead of the idol/gods of Greece. We will of course update all the games to make them fun and easy for all athletic abilities. Are you ready for a fun way to explore Ancient Greek history? Let Meredith give you a blueprint to have your own Olympics and make memories at the same time.

 

 

 

 


 

 

PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

What is unique about the Ancient Greek city-states and their Olympic competition each year? Olympic Truce

Why these games will help build a love for history in your children and teens.

Ancient Olympic Games: Stade Foot Race, Diaulos Foot Race, Hippicus Foot Race, Chariot Race, Discus Throw, Jumping Event, Hoplite Races, Boxing, Wrestling, Javelin Throw, Pentathlon (Wrestling, Stade Foot Race, Long Jump, Javelin Throw, Discus Throw).

Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Sacrificing to idol/god and idol/goddesses. Boys wrestling, boxing, running.
  • Day 2: Procession of horses, riders, chariots into hippodrome. Running, wrestling, discus, javelin, long jump. First athlete to win 3 events crowned the winner.
  • Day 3: Another procession ending at temple of Zeus to offer sacrifices. Long races, sprints.
  • Day 4: Wrestling & Boxing ending day with Hoplite race.
  • Day 5: Celebrate victors. Procession of coaches, athletes, and spectators to Temple of Zeus to offer more sacrifices. Young boy offers olive branch – afterward woven into wreaths. Evening feast.

Planning the Games

Venue: Backyard, field, or park

Just family or friends, too

Each city-state team wears a different color (Athens, Sparta, Rhodes, Marathon, Crete, Smyrna, etc.)

Gather supplies and prepare what will happen when and where.

Our Olympic Competitions

  • Archery
  • Relay Race
  • “Luge”
  • One-Stade Running Race
  • Two-Stade Running Race
  • Landscape Timber Balance Wrestling
  • Pool Noodle Javelin Toss
  • Frisbee Discus
  • Long Jump

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Homeschool History Party Resources: Shop at PowerlineProd.com

Let's Have Our Own Olympic Games Let's Have Our Own Archaeological Dig by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis
Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc. Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Organize Your Homeschool

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #192, Organize Your Homeschool, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Organize Your Homeschool

In “Organize Your Home School,” Episode, #192, Meredith Curtis tackles organization. Don’t panic! It is possible to organize the year ahead, schedule, and the stuff you use to teach with – books, papers, assignments. Meredith even walks through setting up the homeschool room for easy storage and clean up each day after school. And how do you eat an elephant-or get organized? One step at a time. So let’s do this!

 

 

 


PowerlineProd.com Homeschool and Bible Resources

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

No one ever warned me that homeschooling creates piles of papers, stacks of books, and a myriad of simple choices – like how many pages to read this week or where should I store my stuff or “Mom, what should I do today?”

So, let’s tackle organization step by step.

Organize the Homeschool Room

Start first or if not enough time, work on slowly thru year and move on to lesson planning & scheduling.

Storage, book shelves, school year book shelf, place for children to store all their stuff together

Stuff Use most, easiest to access and put away

Places for piles- shelf, children’s tote

How to Organize the Homeschool Room Blog at PowerlineProd.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

6 Smart Storage Solutions to Eliminate Homeschool Clutter

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lesson Planning

Subjects, classes, books, projects

Mapping the Year/ Leave Catch Up Weeks

Handy-Dandy Folder Method

Lesson Planning for the Entire Year in One Week Blog at PowerlineProd.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Scheduling

Family Calendar, Mom Schedule, Kid’s Schedules

Flexible Block Scheduling

Flexible Scheduling Can Work For You Blog at PowerlineProd.com

 

 

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Homeschool Resources, Shop at PowerlineProd.com

PLP Back to Homeschool Sale 2023


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Throw a Luau to Learn about Hawaii

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #191, Throw a Luau to Learn about Hawaii, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Throw a Luau to Learn about Hawaii

In “Throw a Luau to Learn about Hawaii,” Episode, #191, Meredith Curtis inspires you to plan and host a Luau to learn all about Hawaii the fun way. shares the educational benefits of hosting a luau with all the how-tos. Learn about venue, food, costumes, decorations, music, and party fun.  She shares funny and poignant memories of past luaus and how it impacted learning about our 50th state. Teach history and geography the fun way with a luau!

 

 

 


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Show Notes

Nothing is boring when you throw a party! How planning, hosting, and participating in history parties is educational as well as fun!

Benefits of a Luau

  • Planning & hosting vs. Attending
  • Research crops, food, clothing, history
  • Learn about Hawaiian culture, food, history
  • FUN!

Venue/Guests

Near Water (pool, ocean, lake) good!

Decorations make it! Tropical flowers, shells, fishnets, surfboards

Play Hawaiian/Beach music in the background

Greet guests with leis

Encourage everyone to dress Hawaiian

Set Up/Clean Up

  • Swim area/extra towels
  • Buffet Table/Drink Table
  • Activity Area
  • Greeter with leis near entrance

Food

  • Roasted Pig or Pork
  • Poke Bowls
  • Tropical Fruit Salad
  • Hawaiian Pizza
  • Hawaiian Bread
  • Chinese/Japanese Dishes
  • Main Dishes with Pineapple/Coconut (Sweet & Sour Chicken)
  • Coconut Cake
  • Pineapple Desserts
  • Alcohol-Free Pina Coladas
  • Kona Coffee

Activities

  • Limbo
  • Swimming/Pool Volleyball
  • Poi Eating Contest
  • Hula Lessons
  • Ukulele Playing

Costumes

Hawaiian Shirts, Mumus, Modest Bathing Suits with Grass Skirts

Leis, Flowered Wristlets & Anklets

Flowers in Hair

Resource

Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Resources

 

Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Medieval Banquet by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette with Powerline Productions, Inc. Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Archaeological Dig by Meredith Curtis

 

 


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Host Your Own Medieval Banquet for Middle Ages History Fun!

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #190, Host Your Own Medieval Banquet for Middle Ages History Fun!, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Host Your Own Medieval Banquet for Middle Ages History Fun!

In “Host Your Own Medieval Banquet for Middle Ages History Fun,” Episode, #190, Meredith Curtis inspires you to host a Medieval Banquet to culminate your Middle Ages History studies. She shares the educational benefits of hosting the feast, along with all the how-tos. Learn about venue, food, costumes, jousting with pool noodles, pageantry, and remembering the rank and file.  She shares funny and poignant memories of their Middle Ages Feast along with some of the bloopers like the roasted pig that looked like Alf. Teach history the fun way with a medieval banquet!

 

 

 


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Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Nothing is boring when you throw a party! How planning, hosting, and participating in history parties is educational as well as fun!

Benefits of a Medieval Banquet

  • Planning & hosting vs. Attending
  • Crops, food, manners, protocol
  • Pageantry: family crest, flags
  • Costumes: royalty, peasants, monks, priests, jester, hunchback, herald
  • Crowns: king, queen, prince, princess, duke, duchess, lord, lady

Venue

Choose a venue.

Who Attends

  • Everyone! Including dogs!
  • Lord & Lady (costume)
  • Bishop (costume)
  • Nobility (costume)
  • Herald, Squire, Page, Priests, Merchants (costume)
  • Entertainers such as Jugglers, Musicians, Bards, Jester, Acrobats, Dancers, Magicians (costume)
  • Monk or Abbot (costume)
  • Peasants (costume)

Setting Up Tables

  • Above the salt
  • Royal table
  • Descending Tables

Procession In

Herald announces. Priest in front. Process in by Rank.

Food

  • Roasted Pig or Deer (Alf meatloaf)
  • Wooden Bowls & Spoons but silver for royalty, knives, sometimes spoons, no forks, goblets or cups
  • Broth, salad, cheese, soup, vegetable & meats, desert (fruit, cake, pudding), cheese
  • Cider, grape juice
  • Venison, pork, wild boar, beef tongue, chicken, swan, heron, peacock, pheasant, quail, partridges, crane, eel, fish, rabbit
  • Peas, rice, broth, soups, dried fruits, eggs, white sauces, white puddings, tarts, jellies, fritters, pastries, and fruit dumplings, baskets of bread

Activities

  • Jousting with pool noodles
  • Melee (capture the flag)
  • Archery
  • Chess Tournament
  • Ladies folk dancing
  • Bard performs
  • Mystery or miracle play

Costumes

Robin Hood, fairy tale prince & princesses, monks, peasants, executioner, hunchback

Resource

Let’s Have Our Own Medieval Banquet by Meredith Curtis & Laura Nolette

Let's Have Our Own Medieval Banquet by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

Let's Have Our Own Medieval Banquet by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette with Powerline Productions, Inc. Let's Have Our Own Luau by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis Let's Have Our Own Archaeological Dig by Meredith Curtis

 

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!