Will the Real Nicholas, Valentine, & Patrick Please Stand Up

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #179, Will The Real Nicholas, Valentine, & Patrick Please Stand Up, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Will the Real Nicholas, Valentine, & Patrick Please Stand Up

In “Will the Real Nicholas, Valentine, & Patrick Please Stand Up,” Episode, #179, Meredith Curtis uncovers the real St. Nick, St. Valentine, and St. Patrick, debunking popular stereotypes of these men and the holidays celebrated in their honor. Meet 3 Christian superheroes who stood tall in their generation loving God, standing for truth, making disciples, and pastoring churches. You will be inspired by these men and I hope you will introduce them to your children.

 

 


Happy New Year from Powerline Productions, Inc.

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 


Show Notes

Is St. Nick a roly-poly sleigh rider? Does Valentine love pink hearts and chocolate candies? Is St. Patrick really a lepruchan? It’s time to meet the real men behind these holidays celebrated in their honor.

Bishop Nicholas of Myrna

  • Wealthy, generous, stockings
  • Destroy temple
  • Save from famine, lower taxes
  • Council of Nicaea

Pastor Valentine

  • Pastor
  • Gifts of healing
  • Disobeyed Rome to obey God
  • Letters from Jail urging his flock to stay true to Jesus

St. Patrick, Apostle to the Irish

  • Rejected parent’s faith, captured by raiders, sold as a slave
  • Gave his heart to Christ, escaped
  • Called to ministry, called to Ireland
  • Ministry in Ireland

Life Skills Leadership Summit

Are you overwhelmed as a homeschool mom? Trying to give your kids real life skills and the ability to make wise decisions, but it’s not that easy? Here’s help from over 30 expert homeschoolers who want to answer your questions.

Join Me for Life Skills Leadership Summit during February 20-24, 2023. Give your kids real life skills and the ability to make wise decisions. You’ll be encouraged, with tools to confidently finish your school year strong. Learn more here:

Join Meredith Curtis at the Life Skills Leadership Summit at https://www.powerlineprod.com/join-me-at-life-skills-leadership-summit/

Apples of Gold in Settings of Silver

  • Council of Nicaea, lowing taxes, getting grain
  • Letters of encouragement, sharing the Gospel in Jail
  • Speaking to druid priests, sharing Gospel, his testimony

Celebrate Our Christian Superheroes

  • These 3 men plus many more
  • Heroes for Jesus Party
  • Perfect for Reformation Day, but also Valentines Day or St. Patrick’s Day

  Celebrate Our Christian Super Heroes by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette at Powerline Productions, Inc.

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Real Men Resources

Raise men who stand tall in their generation! Our curriculum works great at home; or in homeschool co-ops and online classes, too! 😊

 

The Making of Real Men by Mike Curtis with Powerline Productions, Inc. Real Men 101: Godly Manhood Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & Family Real Men 103: Leadership

 


Thank You to our Network Sponsor – CTC Math!

Special Replay | Ultimate Holiday Checklist Advice

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Ultimate holiday checklist for homeschooling during the holidays.Ultimate Holiday Checklist Advice & Homeschooling Episode 379 with Janice Campbell

Are you ready for the holidays? Here is holiday checklist advice from two homeschool veterans, Felice Gerwitz and Janice Campbell. Both have homeschooled during the holidays for many years and have much to share with you!

Visit my special guest’s website! Get to know Janice Campbell:

Bookstore: Everyday-Education.com
Literature resources Excellence-In-Literature.com
Blog: DoingWhatMatters.com

Janice Campbell and her husband, Donald, homeschooled their four sons from preschool into early college using a lifestyle of learning approach influenced by Charlotte Mason and classical education. A lifelong reader and learner, Janice has been sharing her joy in homeschooling at conferences since the 1990s. She is the author of the Excellence in Literature curriculum for grades 8-12, Transcripts Made Easy, and other resources. She writes for various homeschooling magazines and online at EverydayEducation.com, Excellence-in-Literature.com, and DoingWhatMatters.com.

Holiday Checklist Advice & Homeschooling

Here is a blog post on Holiday Checklist Countdown

  • My business tagline has been “Making time for things that matter” from the very beginning.
  • Homeschooling and caregiving made me aware of the value of time.
  • My grandmother’s influence: weekly routines, lists, twice-yearly home plan, etc.
  • Tried all the planners  . . . at least once.
  • Tried to be my grandmother . . . but not for long.
  • Lifelong planning plus four boys turned me into a planning realist.
  • Created my own forms, which have become my Peaceful Planning System.
  • The newest item is the oldest and longest used — the weekly planner, a printable, customizable, quarterly planner.
  • Flexibility, the big picture, knowing what matters, and just do the next thing.
  • It all comes back to making time for things that matter and Charlotte Mason’s point that “Education is an atmosphere, a discipline, and a life.”


Celebrate Jesus on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #150, Celebrate Jesus on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Celebrate Jesus on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

In “Celebrate Jesus on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day,” Episode, #150, Meredith Curtis challenges you to make Jesus preeminent on what can be the busiest day of the year. With honesty and embarrassment, she shares lessons she has learned about exhausting herself creating the perfect day instead of celebrating a birthday. Glean some simple lessons about focus and intentional living to make your Christmas all about Jesus.

 


Rejoice! for unto to us a child is born! - with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

The pressure

The abundance of gifts, parties, fun things you don’t want to miss

To-do List

I tried to plan ahead, but…

Christmas is Here

There are things you can’t change

It’s not about a perfect day

It’s about a perfect Gift to Mankind

Ingredients of Christ-Centered Days

Surrender

Trust

Scripture

Music

Worship/Prayer

Christmas is a Birthday

Sing Happy Birthday

Blow up balloons and hang them from the ceiling

Focus on giving more than receiving

Work together

Give Thanks

Our Christmas Morning Devotions & Singing

Family Time

Peaceful, joyful topics of conversation

Play Games

Make something together (food, craft)

Watch an Inspirational Movie

Our Christmas Eve Traveling Dinner

Pray for each other and the lost world He came to save

Attend a church service

Personal Time

Walks

Read the Bible Devotionally

Alone with the Christmas Lights

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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

Be proactive this holiday season! 😊

Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis Christmas Thoughts and Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis

Christmas Unit Studies

Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

FW Radio - Podcast #55 - Start Strong and Finish Well With Christmas Traditions FinishWell Radio, Podcast #077, Learning from the Pilgrims & Puritans Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #103, Happy Birthday Creator-King, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #124, Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network


 

A Special Thank You to Our Network Sponsor:  Courageous Movie

 

From the Kendrick Brothers, creators of the No. 1 box-office movie WAR ROOM and OVERCOMER, comes the remastered re-release of COURAGEOUS Legacy, in theaters September 24. Celebrating 10 years of impact on families and fathers, this updated version of the film includes new scenes and an enhanced look and sound.

Filled with action-packed drama, COURAGEOUS Legacy will once again have viewers laughing, crying, and cheering as they are challenged and inspired by everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children. Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That’s courageous.

Check out the trailer here!


When All Hope is Gone: The Story of Elizabeth & Zechariah

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #149, When All Hope is Gone: The Story of Elizabeth & Zechariah, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

When All Hope is Gone: The Story of Elizabeth & Zechariah

In “When All Hope is Gone: The Story of Elizabeth & Zechariah,” Episode, #149, Meredith Curtis takes you on a journey back in time to a godly priest and his wife who have faced a lifetime of disappointment. She explains how their story fits in with the Christmas story and why Luke includes it in his Gospel. Their strategic role in the Kingdom of God changed history—all because they served the Lord faithfully even with broken dreams. Be inspired this Christmas season and see John the Baptist’s parents in a whole new light.

 

 

 


Rejoice! for unto to us a child is born! - with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 

 

 


Show Notes

Do you have dreams that have crashed and burned? Or maybe just put on the shelf?

Elizabeth and Zechariah did.

The Faithful Priest & Godly Wife

Zechariah’s role in the nation of Israel

Elizabeth’s disappointment

Their relationship to Mary

The Encounter

God Remembers

God speaks to Zechariah

He is afraid to believe

The sign

The hiding—is this really true?

Mary Comes to Visit

Why does she come?

Who recognizes Jesus first?

How this miraculous birth helped Mary

How Elizabeth poured into Mary

John is Born

Name him John

Testimony of obedience

The reality of old parents

No mention of Mrs. John-the-Bapist & other not-ordinary things

When All Hope is Gone

God never forgets you

God’s plan is bigger

God’s plan is better

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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

Be proactive this holiday season! 😊

Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis Christmas Thoughts and Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis

Christmas Unit Studies

Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

FW Radio - Podcast #55 - Start Strong and Finish Well With Christmas Traditions FinishWell Radio, Podcast #077, Learning from the Pilgrims & Puritans Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #103, Happy Birthday Creator-King, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #124, Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network


 

A Special Thank You to Our Network Sponsor:  Courageous Movie

 

From the Kendrick Brothers, creators of the No. 1 box-office movie WAR ROOM and OVERCOMER, comes the remastered re-release of COURAGEOUS Legacy, in theaters September 24. Celebrating 10 years of impact on families and fathers, this updated version of the film includes new scenes and an enhanced look and sound.

Filled with action-packed drama, COURAGEOUS Legacy will once again have viewers laughing, crying, and cheering as they are challenged and inspired by everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children. Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That’s courageous.

Check out the trailer here!


Proactive Parenting During the Holidays

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #148, Proactive Parenting During the Holidays, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Proactive Parenting During the Holidays

In “Proactive Parenting During the Holidays,” Episode, #148, Meredith Curtis addresses parenting challenges over the holidays and how to overcome them with confidence. She also explains the opportunities holiday celebrations provide to parent proactively: instilling values and creating a sense of family identity. Take ground this holiday season to impart wisdom and joy into your precious sons and daughters. You won’t regret it.

 

 

 


 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!


Show Notes

But Cousin Fred says that word?

I don’t like when Aunt Freda squeezes my cheeks?

Why do I have to give up my bed to grandma and grandpa?

Can I have a third piece of pie?

Holiday Challenges for Parents

Time with family members who have different values

Sugar Rush

Busy Schedule

Financial Concerns

A lot of chaos and activity—can disengage

How are you training your children—the holidays will reveal it!

Extended Family

Older folks

The American culture in the 21st Century

Replacing disrespect with honor and communicating value

Greeting, Rising, Giving up Seat, Giving folks with walkers plenty of room, being quieter

Family stories

Create a memory for your children of folks that won’t be there in their adult years—photos, special tablecloth, traditional foods

Using the Holidays to Instill Values & Virtue

Value elderly—virtue

Value extended family—virtue loyalty

Value giving—virtue generosity

Value serving—virtue servant-heart

Value what others have to say—value humility

Using the Holidays to Instill a Sense of Family Identity

Traditions

  • Thanksgiving: Kernels of Corn, Traditional Dishes, Games/Sports
  • Advent devotions, Christmas Unit Study, Decorating Tree Night, Christmas caroling, serving, church plays, making Christmas presents, birthday party for Jesus
  • Traveling Dinner, Christmas devotions, sing “Happy Birthday”, family dinner

Strategic Scheduling

  • Rest alternate with busy
  • Choose from many options
  • Bake/cook ahead and freeze
  • Get shopping/wrapping done early
  • Christmas school

 

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

Be proactive this holiday season! 😊

Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis Christmas Thoughts and Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis

Christmas Unit Studies

Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

FW Radio - Podcast #55 - Start Strong and Finish Well With Christmas Traditions FinishWell Radio, Podcast #077, Learning from the Pilgrims & Puritans Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #103, Happy Birthday Creator-King, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #124, Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network


 

A Special Thank You to Our Network Sponsor:  Courageous Movie

 

From the Kendrick Brothers, creators of the No. 1 box-office movie WAR ROOM and OVERCOMER, comes the remastered re-release of COURAGEOUS Legacy, in theaters September 24. Celebrating 10 years of impact on families and fathers, this updated version of the film includes new scenes and an enhanced look and sound.

Filled with action-packed drama, COURAGEOUS Legacy will once again have viewers laughing, crying, and cheering as they are challenged and inspired by everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children. Protecting the streets is second nature to these men. Raising their children in a God-honoring way? That’s courageous.

Check out the trailer here!


Investigate the Mystery of Christmas

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #126 Investigate the Mystery of Christmas, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Investigate the Mystery of Christmas

In “Investigate the Mystery of Christmas,” Episode, #126, Meredith Curtis calls you to put on your detective hat and solve a mystery with her! Meredith takes you on a tour of the Old Testament looking for clues that point to a spectacular event in Bethlehem! Are you ready to investigate the Mystery of Mysteries?

 

 


Rejoice! for unto to us a child is born! - with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Have you ever read a cozy mystery?

You match wits with a detective to figure out who did the dastardly deed?

There is a mystery in the Old Testament. It includes a dastardly deed in a Garden and a hero who makes a plan to save the day! He leaves clues throughout the centuries to raise the expectation level of those who need to be rescued.

The Snake Clue (Seed of a Woman)

Clue: Genesis 3:15

Mystery Revealed: Galatians 4:4

The Genealogy Clue (Descendant of Abraham)

Clue: Genesis 12:3

Mystery Revealed: Galatians 3:16

The Second Genealogy Clue (Tribe of Judah)

Clue: Genesis 49:10

Mystery Revealed: Matthew 1:1

The Descendant Clues (Descendant of David)

Clue: Psalm 132:11 & Jeremiah 23:5-6

Mystery Revealed: Romans 1:1-3

The Deity Clue (Son of God)

Clue: Proverbs 30:4

Mystery Revealed: Matthew 3:17

The Name Clues (Called Jehovah God)

Clue: Jeremiah 23:5-6 & Isaiah 9:6

Mystery Revealed: John 8:24 & John 8:58

The Miracle Birth Clue (Born of a Virgin)

Clue: Isaiah 7:14

Mystery Revealed: Luke 1:34-35

The Hometown Clue (Born in Bethlehem)

Clue: Micah 5:2

Mystery Revealed: Luke 2:4-6

The Ministry location Clue (Minister in Galilee)

Clue: Isaiah 9:1-2

Mystery Revealed: Matthew 4:13

The Miracles Clue (Jesus’ Miracles)

Clue: Isaiah 35:5-6

Mystery Revealed: John 11:47

The Resurrection Clue (Resurrection from the Dead)

Clue: Psalm 16:10

Mystery Revealed: Acts 13:35-37

The Gold Medal Victory Clue (Victory Over Death)

Clue: Isaiah 25:8

Mystery Revealed: Hebrew 2:14 & John 19:30

The Priest Clue (A Priest like Melchizedek)

Clue: Psalm 110:4

Mystery Revealed: Hebrews 5:5-6

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 Christmas with Anne of Green Gables Unit Study by Meredith Curtis and Powerline Productions Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Christmas Thoughts & Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Christmas Counting Worksheets by Meredith Curtis Maggie King Mysteries: Legend of the Candy Cane Murder by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #103, Happy Birthday Creator-King, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Radio Badge, Podcast #060, 7 Benefits of Reading Classics Inexpensive Presents Your Peeps Will Love Finish Well Radio, Podcast #079, Why We Love Hallmark Christmas Movies, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

11 Reasons Books Make Great Gifts

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #125 11 Reasons Books Make Great Gifts, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

11 Reasons Books Make Great Gifts

In “11 Reasons Books Make Great Gifts,” Episode #125, Meredith Curtis gives you remarkable evidence that giving books for Christmas and birthday presents is a super idea and a lifetime investment in those you love. Meredith inspires you to give books and then gives a host of book gift suggestions! Get ready to rock Christmas this year with all kinds of literature, living books, and picture books.

 

 


Rejoice! for unto to us a child is born! - with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Think about your favorite Christmas present.

Do you still have it? Probably not.

Yet, I have read Little Women, Pride and Prejudice, and Anne of Green Gables numerous times and they’re still on my bookshelf.

Let me inspire you with 11 reasons books make great gifts a give as Christmas and birthdays presents.

 

Books Are Not Expensive

Books are much cheaper than a bicycle, PlayStation, or designer sneakers.

 

Books Are Easy to Buy Online

Online bookstores are everywhere! Many have free shipping if you spend a small amount of money. My favorite online bookstores:

You can even find used bookstores online that let you know what condition the book is in. This allows you to give a “like new” used book as a Christmas present.

My favorite used bookstores:

You can buy E-books for people, too. Besides Kindle on Amazon, you can shop here at our store, Powerline Productions.

 

Books Are Easy to Wrap

I love how easy books are to wrap!

 

Books Can Be Read Over & Over Again

Books are reusable. You can read them again and again and again.

 

Books Are Always The Right Size

Forget about returning something because it doesn’t fit. Books are always the right size.

Keep in mind larger print for children and older folks, speaking of size.

 

There Are An Endless Variety Of Options

There are so many possibilities when it comes to books. Purchase a book about a hobby, a biography of someone admired, an inspirational book to offer hope, a how-to book for the do-it-yourselfer, historical fiction for the history buff, travel books for the traveler, classic novel for the literature-love, and I could go on and on and on. There are endless possibilities when it comes to books.

And don’t forget picture books. Everyone loves a well-written beautifully illustrated picture book. Oh, and picture books for adults are called “coffee table books.”

 

Books Last A Lifetime

If you take good care of a book and store it properly on a sturdy bookshelf, books last a lifetime.

 

Books Take You On Adventures

Stories take you on an adventure. Crack open a novel and you could end up chasing pirates, spying in a foreign country, catching bank robbers, guarding a queen, backpacking across Europe, meeting the love of your life, or meeting your long-lost grandfather. Literature can be thrilling!

 

Books Can Take You To Other Places & Time Periods

Novels and living books take you to other times and places around the world. Travel back in time through a history book or historical fiction. Use a travel guide, living book, or geographical novel to take you to another place.

 

Books Impact A Person’s Mind & Character

Books, like movies and TV shows, shape our character and impart values. If you give wholesome, Christ-honoring books to people, you are impacting them at the deepest level.

 

Giving Books Places High Value On Books & Reading

When you give books, you give a shout-out for education. You declare that books are valuable and reading is not only for education, but for pleasure, too.

 

Book Ideas for Young Children

 

Here’s our family’s favorite Christmas picture books.

Powerlineprod.com Blog, Inspirational Pictures Books Your Children will Love by Meredith Curtis

 

 

Here’s are family’s favorite picture books.

Powerlineprod.com Blog, Our Family's Favorite Picture Books, by Meredith Curtis

 

Here’s some amazing Christian hero picture books.

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Inspire Your Children with Christian Super Hero Picture Books, by Meredith Curtis

 

These picture books teach kids about geography and counting at the same time!

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Geography/Counting Picture Books Your Children will Love, by Meredith Curtis

 

Book Ideas for Children

Inspire children with Christian hero biographies!

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Inspire Your Children with Christian Super-Hero Biographies, by Meredith Curtis

Great list of children’s mystery series in this post!

Old Schoolhouse Magazine Blog, Classic Mystery Series for Young Mystery Lovers, by Meredith Curtis

 

Book Ideas for Teens & Adults

These books are amazing! Great ideas here!

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Classics Every Christian Should Have in Their Library, by Meredith Curtis

 

Consider give your favorite cozy mystery buff a vintage “Golden-Age” novel.

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Vintage Books for the Cozy Mystery Lover, by Meredith Curtis

Books for Mom!

PowerlineProd.com Blog, My Favorite Books on Motherhood, by Meredith Curtis

Book Ideas for Homeschooling Families—All Ages

More than books in this list, but great book ideas here for your ancient history buff.

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Ancient History Resources Your Family Will Love, By Meredith Curtis

 

Here are some books and other resources for the archeology buff!

PowerlineProd.com Blog, Archaeology Resources Your Family Will Love, by Meredith Curtis

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 Christmas with Anne of Green Gables Unit Study by Meredith Curtis and Powerline Productions Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Christmas Thoughts & Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Christmas Counting Worksheets by Meredith Curtis Maggie King Mysteries: Legend of the Candy Cane Murder by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Homeschooling Podcast, Podcast #103, Happy Birthday Creator-King, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network Finish Well Radio Badge, Podcast #060, 7 Benefits of Reading Classics Inexpensive Presents Your Peeps Will Love Finish Well Radio, Podcast #079, Why We Love Hallmark Christmas Movies, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Homeschool Podcast, Podcast #124, Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study

In “Create Treasured Memories with a Christmas Unit Study,” Episode, #124, Meredith Curtis gives you step-by-step instructions to create your own unit study after she shares how unit studies refresh your family for the month of December. Breakaway from the routine with a unit study so you can celebrate Christmas all month long, create memories, make gifts, decorate, and prepare for the holidays while you learn! If you want a Christmas educational and wonder-filled adventure for your family, you will love this podcast!

.


Rejoice! for unto to us a child is born! - with Powerline Productions, Inc.

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

 

 

 


Show Notes

Christmas is a busy time for the homeschool Mom. May I suggest a lighter schedule or even a complete change of pace?

There are two different tracks you can take.

  1. Count Christmas activities and preparations as school.
  2. Do a Christmas Unit Study

 

Count Christmas Activities as school

  • Handwriting (address or sign Christmas cards)
  • Home Ec (bake Christmas cookies)
  • Art (make Christmas presents)
  • Music (go Christmas caroling)
  • Geography (celebrate traditions from other countries)
  • History (listen to older family members tell stories)
  • Writing (write the family Christmas letter)

 

Do a Christmas Unit Study

  • Subject of unit study focuses on Christmas
  • The Christmas hustle/bustle is part of school

 

Our Favorite Christmas Unit Studies

  • Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America
  • Celebrate Christmas with Anne of Green Gables
  • Celebrate Christmas around the World
  • Celebrate Christmas in Victorian England (except we couldn’t find a goose)
  • Celebrate the First Christmas
  • Celebrate Christmas in Florida
  • Celebrate Christmas in Mexico

 

So many treasured memories of crafting, cooking, decorating, shopping, wrapping presents, and throwing parties.

Choose a Topic

  • What sounds fun?
  • Age and interest level of children?
  • Ability to read, write, and research
  • What sounds Christmasy?
  • What are some things that we’ve always wanted to do at Christmas?
  • What are some things we just have to do at Christmas?
  • What are some things we’d like to learn about Christmas (or another topic)?
  • What makes everyone say, “WOW! That sounds fun!”

 

Center Unit Studies on Good Books that you Read Aloud

Nothing is more Christmasy than snuggling up together and listening to a good book.  There are many good Christmas read alouds, but it doesn’t have to be a Christmas book.

NO ONE is TOO old for a beautifully illustrated well-written picture book.

 

Example of Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study

Picture Book each day

Singing Christmas carols each day

Devotion, cookie baking, and activities match up!

  Celebrate Christmas with Unit Studies at Powerline Productions

 

End Unit Study with a Party & Giving Gifts to Family & Friends

  • Caroling Party for C C w C
  • Tea for C C in C A
  • Wreathes and Booklets were our family Christmas gifts that year of the CCinCA unit

 

What makes a Christmas Unit Study Different?

  • Don’t straight-jacket yourself, be creative
  • Think about what you need to accomplish for the holidays
  • Think about what you and the children…..and your husband….would really enjoy
  • Think about any baking, cooking, gift wrapping, shopping, or crafting that needs to be done.

 

Don’t Forget Field Trips

Almost every store, museum, bank, business, and church decorates for Christmas.  Just going on your weekly errands, you can discuss Christmas decorations.  You can observe whether these places are saying, “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays.”  You could even collect data and make a bar graph!

“Tour of Homes” where you get to visit lovely homes decorated for Christmas.  Often they serve hot drinks.  Going at night is usually the best because of all the candlelight and twinkle lights.  There is so much history to learn on these tours, as well as information on architecture and remodeling.

Holiday concerts, plays, and productions are annual events in your city that you and your children may have not yet enjoyed.  Our local community college, Seminole Community College, offers free holiday concerts that are wonderful!

Free Messiah sing-a-long that we have enjoyed participating in.

Free church performances in our area.  The talent in the Body of Christ never ceases to amaze me.  We have enjoyed concerts and plays that were excellent for free or a nominal fee.

“Walk Through Bethlehem”

 

Don’t Limit Yourself!

Even Christmas shopping can be educational if you start with a budget.  Your children can make a list and check it twice, comparing sales, and sticking to the money allotted.  They can do the same with holiday grocery shopping!

 

How to Plan a Unit Study

  • List books you want to read aloud
  • List all the activities you would like to do
  • Lay out paper or computer file with topics for each day (you won’t use up all the topics each day, but you can use this to evaluate balance of for time and mess!)
  • Divide them by categories and days

 

Topics to Fill for Record Keeping & Variety’s sake!

  • Bible
  • Information
  • Read Aloud
  • Handwriting
  • Homemaking
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Music
  • Science
  • History/Geography
  • Math
  • Service/Hospitality
  • Field Trips
  • More Fun

 

Resources

We have 4 amazing Christmas unit studies that you will love! Visit PowerlineProd.com to explore our easy-to-use unit studies and start making memories with your family right away!

 

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Resources

Celebrate Christmas with Anne of Green Gables Unit Study by Meredith Curtis and Powerline Productions Celebrate Christmas in Germany Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with Cookies Unit Study by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas in Colonial America by Meredith Curtis
Let's Have Our Own Victorian Tea by Meredith Curtis Welcome Inn: The Art of Hospitality in Jesus' Name by Meredith Curtis Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis
Christmas Thoughts & Prayers Journal by Meredith Curtis Celebrate Christmas with a traveling dinner by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette Christmas Counting Worksheets by Meredith Curtis Maggie King Mysteries: Legend of the Candy Cane Murder by Meredith Curtis

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Radio Podcast #016, Jerusalem News with the Finish Well Team, on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network Christmas Traditions Teens Love, Finish Well Radio Show Podcast #028 on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network FW Radio - Podcast #54 - The Birthday That Cut History In Two FW Radio - Podcast #55 - Start Strong and Finish Well With Christmas Traditions

Meaningful & Fun Ways to Celebrate Easter at Home

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #110, Celebrate Easter Week at Home, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Meaningful & Fun Ways to Celebrate Easter at Home

In “Meaningful & Fun Ways to Celebrate Easter at Home” episode #110, Meredith Curtis answers the questions you have about how to celebrate this significant Christian celebration without gathering with other believers in person to rejoice. She will give you Scripture, worship, prayer, hands-on activities, read alouds, and movie ideas to make this Easter Week the most meaningful ever!

 

 

 


Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

 

Powerline Productions April 2020 Ad


Show Notes

Coronavirus lockdown gives us a challenge that we have never faced before.

Easter is the high holy day of Christendom!

Easter Week

Mary anoints Jesus for Burial

Palm Sunday

Jesus Clears the Temple

Passover/Communion/Jesus washes feet

Prayer in the Garden

Arrest/Trail

Crucifixion

Burial

Resurrection

The Church Celebrates!

How God’s People Celebrate: Extra services, dramas, processions, parades, sunrise services

How to celebrate with the larger Body of Christ:

Streaming your local church

Streaming another local church

If you don’t have a home church of your church isn’t streaming, please feel free to join us for our live stream each Sunday during the lockdown at 10 a.m. You can watch us here: Powerline Church. https://www.facebook.com/PowerlineChurchFL/

Devotions

Scriptures to Read each Day can be found in our Easter Devotions:

4 Gospels tell the story!

Jesus Clears the Temple

Jesus was disgusted to see the corrupt money changers in His temple. He overturned their tables in righteous anger. Afterward, He healed the blind and lame before returning to Bethany for the night.

House of Prayer/Court of the Gentiles vs. Shopping Mall

Cleaning Hearts

Cleaning Rooms

Watch Gospel of John

Passover/Communion

Story of Passover from Exodus

Would you like to celebrate the Passover & Learn more about it? https://jewsforjesus.org/for-congregations/christ-in-the-passover

The Last Supper

Bread of Life/Wine is His Blood

Do this in remembrance of me!

Crafts & Activities: Elijah Cup, Bake Bread, Family Communion

Watch 10 Commandments

Prayer in the Garden

Jesus prays in the Garden for the church (John 17) and for the cup to be taken away; yet not His will, but His Father’s

All kinds of flower, plant crafts, Easter wreath

Try to pray together for one hour.

Arrest & Trial

Jesus is betrayed by Judas and is taken away to be tried by the Sanhedrin and then Roman courts.

Peter denies Jesus as the sun is coming up. Jesus is beaten and led off to be crucified.

Easter Egg Learning Activity

Crucifixion

Events of His death—forgiving criminal, It is finished, earthquake, temple curtain torn in 2.

Act out the Easter Week story with robes and towels

Watch Passion (for older children only)

Burial

He is buried in a rich man’s tomb, fulfilling prophecy

Pretend to “bury” the body of Jesus in a “tomb” Parents make sure to empty it before Easter morning!

Resurrection

Stream a Resurrection Sunday service

Feast!

Easter Egg Hunt int eh back yard.

Watch Risen

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks. You can sign up here.

https://mailchi.mp/9221394dfca7/plpnewsletter

Celebrate Easter & Thrive During the Coronavirus Lockdown!

Celebrate Easter Devotions Holy Week Egg Activity How to Celebrate Palm Sunday at Home What Does It Mean to Trust God?
Locked Down? Suddenly Homeschooling? Thrive at Home During the Coronavirus Lockdown God's Girls Brand New Life Bible Study Jesus Fill My Heart and Home by Meredith Curtis
A Wise Woman Builds by Meredith Curtis Joyful and Successful Homeschooling by Meredith Curtis Quick & EZ Unit Study Fun by Meredith Curtis Unlocking the Mystery of Homeschooling High School by Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette

More Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Get Along With Your Parents Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #025, Tips for Newbies with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #033, Mothers and Sons with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #043, Electives We Love with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network

Super-Hero Patrick! Life Lessons from Ancient History

A Production of the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.

Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #109, Super Hero Patrick, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Super-Hero Patrick! Life Lessons from Ancient History

In “Super-Hero Patrick! Life Lessons from Ancient History” episode #109, Meredith Curtis introduces you to a Super-Hero of old: St. Patrick of Briton who served the Lord as a missionary in Ireland, converting most of the island to the Christian faith. Pirates, kidnapping, escape, and years of training prepared him for his Irish ministry where he faced down evil powers with confidence in the Lord! You will love his story of faith, courage, and victory!

 

 

 


Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

 

Powerline Productions Spring Ad 2020


Show Notes

Today we say super-hero. In the olden times we called them saint.

St. Patrick is truly a super-hero!

Christian Home

Father Calpomius—civil magistrate, tax collector, church deacon

Wealth

Patrick not walking with God like his parents

Pirates & Kidnapping

Vacation villa by the sea

Age 16

Life as a Slave

Sold in Ireland to a Druid tribal chieftan

Shepherded flocks

Gave heart to Christ—“holy boy”

Escape

Dream

22 years—traveled 200 miles to coast

Ran out of food but Patrick prayed

Freedom & Surrender & Training

Home to Britain

Studied to be Priest then Bishop

Called to A Dark Place

Dream of Irish asking him to come

A Showdown Like Elijah

433 AD vernal equinox same day as Easter—started an illegal bonfire

Dragged before Druid council—power encounter!

The Fruit of His Ministry

Ireland strongly Christian nation

A story of the faithfulness and compassion of God

Life Lesson

God allows trials to remove the dross and prepare us for the call on our life

The Lord loves sinners and puts that love in our heart

God is more powerful than the devil! His Word is true!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter and get your copy of 100 Homeschool Hacks. You can sign up here.

https://mailchi.mp/9221394dfca7/plpnewsletter

Example: Christ-Centered High School Curriculum

Learn about St. Patrick and other Christian super-heroes who changed the world in Celebrate Our Christian Heroes by Meredith Curtis. Or dig into God’s Word with Bible studies and one-credit high school courses.

 

Celebrate Our Christian Heroes by Meredith Curtis God's Girls Brand New Life Bible Study God's Girls Beauty Secrets Create a High School Class like Old Testament Survey Class by Meredith Curtis
Making of Real Men by Mike Curtis Worldview Understanding the Times by Meredith Curtis God's Girls 101: Grow in Christ Real Men 101: Godly Manhood
God's Girls 104: Motherhood by Meredith Curtis Real Men 102: Freedom, Courtship, Marriage, & Family God's Girls 105: Homemaking by Meredith Curtis Real Men 103: Leadership

More Life Lessons from Ancient History Podcasts You Might Find Helpful

Finish Well Podcast #038 Don't Be a Nimrod Finish Well Radio Show, Podcast #089, Caedmon, 7th Century Songwriter, with Meredith Curtis on the Ultimate Homeschool Radio Network