Finish Well

25 Movies Families Can Watch Together

In “25 Movies that Families Can Watch Together,” episode #084, Meredith Curtis shares some of her family’s favorite movies and how they have impacted their lives and hearts. From faith builders to tear-jerkers, these movies have made us laugh and cry. Each of these movies also lead to great family discussions right after or days later. Some of them (like Cars) bring an historical time to life. Others impart a life lesson or just make us laugh.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

Show Notes

Our Family Movie Nights

Movies often lead to discussions afterward or even weeks/months later.

Chariots of Fire

This is the story of Eric Liddell, a gold medal winner in the 1924 Olympics. His devotion to the Lord is exempliary and inspiring! The movie also follows another runner who must overcome anti-Semetic prejudice in his quest for winning.

This awarding winning movie (Academy Award for Best Picture) was released in 1981.

Return to the Hiding Place

One of my favorite movies, Return to the  Hiding Place is set in the Netherlands during Nazi occupation of World War II. Here is the rest of the story of Corrie ten Boom and her band of teenage resisters. This does have some scary scenes so will not be appropriate for  young children.

***** Teens and Adults/Might be too scary for youngers kids

The Ultimate Gift

Billionaire Grandpa Red dies and dispenses some of his money to his children, but leaves a series of “gifts” for his wild living grandson. I love this movie! In fact, I require watching it for my Economics, Finances, and Business course in high school.

Facing the Giants

In Facing the Giants, we meet Coach Grant Taylor whose life is full of problems and pain. When Grant makes a decision to fully surrender to Jesus, things happen! The Kendrick brothers and Sherwood pictures have produced an awesome sports movie! This is one of my all-time favorite movies.

Anne of Green Gables & Anne of Avonlea (PBS 1980s)

Set on Prince Edward Island, Anne is a little orphan girl with bright red hair adopted by an older brother (Matthew) and sister (Marilla) who run the family farm. She brings life to her new family and the entire village of Avonlea. You will love these movies!

The Princess Bride

This movie is just for fun because it is a totally silly fairy tale released in the 1980s. We repeat so many funny lines from this romantic comedy that you almost have to see this movie to understand our family. A farm boy falls in love with a beautiful maiden and goes off to seek his fortune, but he is kidnapped by the dreaded Pirate Roberts. Really fun movie!

Cars

Yes, this is a cartoon, but it’s about Route 66, completed in 1926, which was dotted with prosperous towns and it was America’s route west traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles. Construction began on I-40 in 1957 and was completed in 1975, causing the little towns along Route 66 to dry up. Can you tell I’m a history buff? Okay, the movie is adorable with a life lesson about friendship.

Snowball Express

I saw this Disney movie in the theatre when it was released in 1972. A big city accountant named Johnny Baxter moves his family to Colorado when they inherit a hotel from his uncle “Crazy Jake.” This is a fun adventure set in beautiful snowy Colorado following the family hilari...

Wacky Wild Wonderful Teenagers

 

In Wacky Wild Wonderful Teenagers,” episode #083, Meredith Curtis talks frankly about the teen years and how they affect teens, their parents, and the parent/teen relationship. Shake off the lies that these years have to be negative, they can be a blast! Meredith believes parents and teens can work together to overcome the challenges teens face.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

Show Notes

Drill Team Story

What’s so Great about a Teen?

* Interesting

* Engaging

* Energetic

* Enchanting

* Fun

* Funny

What’s So Challenging about the Teen Years?

* Hormones

* Guys—Anger

* Girls—Emotional

* Need More Sleep

* Insecurities

* Lapses in Judgment (“Have You Lost Your Mind?” song)

Problems for Teens & Their Parents

* Disposable Income—Targeted by Advertisers

* Message from Media

* Stalked on Internet

* Predators

* Normal Temptations

Questions Teens Ask

* Will Anyone Love Me?

* Do I Measure Up?

* Am I Valuable?

* Will I be a Success?

* Is God Real?

* Can I Trust the Bible?

Start with Relationships

* Lives Changed

* Teens Influenced

* Jesus’ Model

* Set Up for Success

* Family Time

* Friendship Time

* Sports Days

* Picnics/Parties/BBQs

Build Healthy Relationships

 

 

 

 

 

Give Them Answers

* Apologetics

* Read Bible & Discuss

* Create Classes

* Bible Studies

* Living Books

* Biographies (Augustine, Luther, Amy Carmichael, Georg Muller)

      

 

 

 

 

The Opposite Sex

* Natural Attraction

* Sexual Desires

* Movies & TV

* Internet

* Facebook/Social Media

* Pornography

* Sexting

* Vigilance

* Listen/Give Godly Counsel

* Purity

* Freedom from Lust

* Wholesome Friendships

* Courtship/Dating with a Purpose or American-Style Dating?

* Who Will They Marry?

Homeschooling from Genesis

In “Homeschooling from Genesis,” episode #082, Meredith Curtis and Steven Policastro talk about using Genesis to teach history, science, and geography in the homeschool setting. Starting from this foundation, your children can learn every subject from a Christ-centered and biblical worldview. Steven and Meredith also talk about International Association for Creation and National Homeschool Day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Show Notes

The Book of Genesis

True

Jesus referred to it as true and the people and events mentioned as real.

It is very specific about dates. (My talk “Teaching History with Genesis” for National Homeschool Day.

How Genesis is foundational for the Gospel and how we can see Jesus in Genesis, as well as a great resource for history & science.

Biblical Worldview of History

Linear

Beginning & End.

Jesus is the focal point of all history.

The earth is young.

Adam & Eve created in God’s image; full human.

Biblical Worldview of Science & Geography

The earth created in perfection. No death.

Fall.

Noah’s Flood/Geological, climate, & geographical changes.

International Association for Creation

Creation Mandate in Genesis 1:28

Advancing the biblical, Christ-honoring worldview

National Homeschool Day

We invite you to learn, grow, and explore.

 

Global, faith-based, parent-led education revolution

Vision & Heart to Equip Parents

Speakers include:

Israel Wayne, Family Renewal, LLC

Dr. Lainna Callentine, Sciexperience

Kyle Justice, Awesome Science Media

Sherri Seligson, Author, Speaker, Scientist

Barb & Rich Heki, Grandparents of Homeschoolers

Meredith Curtis, Powerline Productions

Resources

Teenage Depression

 

In Teenage Depression, episode #081, Meredith Curtis talks frankly about teenage depression and how it affects families. There is a way out! After sharing the causes of teenage depression, Meredith shares practical ways to get out of that pit and walk in freedom.

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

Show Notes

Brent’s Story

Difference between the “gloomies” and depression.

Feeling overwhelmed, sad, and hopeless for no reason, or not a reason that justifies the intensity of feelings.

Most teenagers struggle with some level of depression at some point in the teenage years.

Causes of Depression

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Hormones

Medications

Lack of Sleep

Conflict

Abuse (Physical, Sexual, Emotional)

Addictions

Relationships

Crushes

Breakups

Unknown causes

Grief is Not Depression

Grief is a natural reaction to death, bad news, illness, loss, divorce, losing a job.

Getting Out of Depression

Set Yourself Up for Success: eat healthy, exercise, get plenty of sleep, put up boundaries in relationships

Look to Jesus who is the healer of broken hearts. Read His Word in a devotional way. Pray the way you are able.

Talk to someone who will listen, pray, and give good counsel.

The Battle for the Mind

Thoughts Can Lead to Negative Emotions

Take thoughts captive.

Spiritual warfare

Speak truth, not lies.

When to Get Help for Depression

If any of the following are involved, it’s time to get help:

* Depression lasts for more than two weeks.

* Depression interferes with your ability to do schoolwork, work a job, minister in church, or interact socially.

* You are making a plan to commit suicide

Where to Get Help

Talk to your mom and dad, or pastor. If they are unable to help you, they can get you a counselor or doctor.

When Your Teen Comes to You to Talk about Their Depression

Let them know how much you love them and how sorry you are that they are hurting.

Let them know that many people struggle with sadness so they are not some kind of freak.

Also, let them know that their situation is unique. Don’t downplay their feelings.

Offer hope in Jesus.

Don’t take suicide thoughts or plans lightly—take them to a counselor.

Note about Baker-Acting.

Resources

12 Happy Habits

In 12 Happy Habits, episode #080, Meredith Curtis encourages you to examine and adopt some habits that will bring happiness and joy into your life, as well as make life, relationships, ministry, and careers more successful and fun. She also shares how to build these, or any habits, into your life by starting with goals that lead to habits that lead to patterns of living.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

 

Show Notes

Happy 2019!

My friend T.J.

Happy Habits

These habits will bring job, success, and blessing to your life and the lives of those around you.

* Start Each Day with God

* Start Morning with Five Things: Brush Teeth & Hair, Make Bed, Get Dressed, Tidy Room

* Greet People (Good morning, Hello, Good-bye)

* Listen and Ask Questions

* Look for Opportunities to Serve & Go the Extra Mile

* Plug Into a Local Church

* Tithe

* Live Debt-Free

* Do Everything with Excellence

* Eat Fresh Foods in a Variety of Colors

* Exercise Regularly & Cultivate a Life Sport

* If You Make a Mess, Clean It Up

From Goal to Habit to Pattern of Living

Some of my New Years’ resolutions have become patterns of living.

We have a million dreams in our heads of who we want to be.

But what is God’s heart for me? To know His will, I dive into His Word, learning that God teaches me my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, I am to honor my parents, he blesses hard work, and He desires unity in relationships.

Having a biblical foundation for my goals, gives me confidence that He will help me.

I start with Measurable Goals.

Once I make measurable goals, I begin. God is for me not against me. He will help me to be faithful if I draw from His strength.

I like to Start Small and build. For example, I start with reading the Bible 5 minutes a day and build up to 30 minutes over a years’ time. That way I don’t crash and burn.

If you are like me, and I hope you’re not, the early weeks will be full of more failure than success. However, I just refuse to give up.

Perseverance is key to building up habit, so no matter how many times you blow it, don’t give up!

Over a long period of time, habits become patterns in your life.

Resources

Why We Love Hallmark Christmas Movies

In “Why We Love Hallmark Christmas Movies,” episode #079, Meredith Curtis talks about her own experience with Hallmark movies and why they are so satisfying to watch. She goes on to explain how the things we love about Hallmark movies are related to deeper desires that are in our hearts. She encourages you to explore the miracle of Christmas, different from the intangible “spirit of Christmas” in Hallmark movies, so that you can experience full, abundant life this Christmas and every day that follows.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

Help yourself to a free Christmas Devotional and many other helpful free resources at Joyful and Successful Homeschooling!

 

Show Notes

Introduction: Even though they are cheesy and predictable, we love them.

Why Hallmark Christmas movies are satisfying:

Small towns

Close-knit Families

Good people with morals and kindness

Bad people can change, experience transformation

Hero is perfect and trustworthy

Guy heroine attached to is not really good, a pretender

The “spirit of Christmas”

Our Real Desires

Warm, loving relationships

Want to belong to a group of people that love & care for one another

Want to be surrounded by good people who bring out the best in us

Want to be good

Want to experience transformation

Want to belong to the “Perfect One” who loves us perfectly

Want to be set free from the impostor

Know that there is something significant about Christmas to experience—not the “spirit of Christmas, but the miracle of Christmas.

Experiencing the Miracle of Christmas

Jesus offers us life and life more abundantly. He offers us rest and a burden to carry that is easy and light. Jesus offers us joy, peace, hope, and love.

Example of Bank Account full of money

There is nothing wrong with putting your feet up and watching a Hallmark Christmas movie, but realize that that good feeling from the movie is temporary, but the miracle of Christmas is yours today, changing your life forever.

Merry Christmas from our families to yours.

 

Please share your favorite Hallmark Christmas Movie Below

 

Christmas Resources

 

 

 

 

In “Christmas Eve Traveling Dinner,” episode #078,

Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette share their special Christmas Eve tradition, The Traveling Dinner, how it got started, what they do, where they go, what they eat, and how it has made their Christmas celebration more meaningful. Grab a cup of coffee, hot tea, or spiced cider and let’s talk about this and other festive and Christ-centered traditions that make the season bright and filled with cheer.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

Help yourself to a free Christmas Devotional and many other helpful free resources at Joyful and Successful Homeschooling!

 

Show Notes

Introduction:

Laura: The First Christmas Traveling Dinner

How our tradition got started.

Merey: How the Curtis family joined the Nolettes on year just to try it out

Laura & Merey: Our first Traveling Dinner together.

What we bring, eat, wear.

Laura: Crane’s Roost Traveling Dinner

Merey: Post-Hurricane Traveling Dinner

Laura & Merey: Doing Devotions & Singing

Gemini  Springs, Soccer, Walks in the Woods

Laura: Expanding, Including Others

Merey: Would you like to have your own Traveling Dinner?

Laura & Merey: What makes Christmas traditions meaningful for all ages.

More ideas to try in your house.

 

Please share your Christmas Traditions with us!

 

Christmas Resources

 

 

 

 

In “Learning from the Pilgrims & Puritans,” episode #077, Meredith Curtis takes you on another Life Lesson in American History. At Thanksgiving, we celebrate God’s blessings with a big feast and usually make little pilgrim hats for the children to wear. Who are those pilgrims? Are they Puritans? Who are the Puritans anyway? Are you ready to meet some folks who helped lay a Christian foundation in the New World? As we give thanks this year, let’s remember the true story of the first Thanksgiving and those early settlers who gave our nation a godly heritage.

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

 

 

 

 

Show Notes

Pilgrim Salt Shakers. Pilgrim Hats. Mayflower Models.

Let’s talk about the little congregation from England that dressed like Dutchmen who sailed on the Mayflower.

The Separatists

Church of England

Puritans vs. Separatists

"You are the salt of the earth!  But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?  It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.  You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven,"  (Matthew 5:13-16 NIV).

One Local Church

Scrooby

Sherwood Forest

John Robinson

William Brewster

William Bradford

Move to Holland

Trip to New World

Suggested Reading to Learn More about the Pilgrims

Plimoth Plantation by William Bradford

A wonderful book for reading aloud with your children is Stories of the Pilgrims by Margaret Pumphrey (Liberty Press).

Celebrate Thanksgiving by Meredith Curtis

Puritans

City on a Hill

John Winthrop

Arabella

Massachusetts Bay Colony

Our Heritage from Pilgrims & Puritans

Not Freedom to Follow Their Own Ways, but Freedom to Serve God the Way His Word Commanded

Zealous for God’s Ways

Willing to Risk Lives, Money, Property, & Honor to OBEY the Lord

Saw Bible as the Authority to Govern Men

Puritan Work Ethic

City on a Hill

If you are interested learning more about celebrating Thanksgiving, I encourage you to purchase Celebrate Thanksgiving where you will not only learn the entire story of the Pilgrims, but you will read devotions, prayers, Scriptures, and poems that will inspire you. This book has everything you need to make your holiday Christ-centered and meaningful with recipes, crafts, and celebrations to try out in your own home.

What a glorious reason to celebrate Thanksgiving is! How wonderful to set aside time to give thanks to Almighty God who has blessed us with so many incredible gifts. Our print copy of Celebrate Thanksgiving is available at Amazon and the E-book at PayHip.

In “Planning a Wedding,” Episode #076, Meredith Curtis interviews two brides-to-be, Aisha Palm and Jenny Rose Curtis, who are planning their weddings to amazing men of God. The exciting thing is that they both live in the same house—the Curtis homestead! The ladies discuss the excitement, challenges, and tasks that are living through as they prepare for romantic days to come.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

Show Notes

Meet Aisha and Jenny Rose

How long each girl has to plan the wedding

A little about the engagements and the grooms.

Goal in Wedding Planning

Each lady shares her desires for her special day and what things they want to do in the ceremony and reception to honor the Lord.

What All is Involved in Wedding Planning

Basics of planning a wedding: venues, dress, caterer, flowers, photographer, cake, wedding party, colors, and theme.

Ladies share their biggest surprises about planning a wedding, as well as their biggest challenges so far.

Memories in Progress

There are memories in the making as they move forward toward their big days.

Couples Growing Closer to Jesus

Growing closer to Jesus is what matters to each young women and her fiancé and they share things that are doing to grow as couples closer to Jesus.

Advice

Jenny Rose and Aisha share advice to ladies who are planning their own weddings.

 

Resources

In “How Our Co-op Began,” Episode #075, Meredith Curtis and Laura Nolette reminisce together about history days in the early 2000s where they combined families to spend one day a week studying history with hands-on fun, reading aloud, and listening to audios. As they began to include other friends, a homeschool co-op was born. Learn how they used food to involve the entire family in their studies, especially the hungry dads. Glean ideas for your own co-oping adventure.

 

 

 

 

 

Powerline Productions, Inc.

Being World Changers, Raising World Changers!

We offer books and ebooks to help you homeschool to the Glory of God!

 

Show Notes

Meet Laura & Meredith and their kids

History Days

Reading aloud

Listening to Diana Waring audios

Crafts, Sewing, Art Appreciation, Drama, Creating Radio Shows, Models

Timelines, Maps

Cooking & Baking

What we studied over the years: American History, British History, Geography, World History

Adding Friends

The homeschool friend whose mom started working and wanted some time with other people

The homeschool friend whose mom couldn’t teach physics

The mom who was struggling

A Co-op Is Birthed

Adding more families

What didn’t work anymore: Listening to Audios, laid back schedule

What continued: reading aloud, hands-on fun, timelines, maps

Memories

Which was Better?

Not really sure; both were perfect for us in the season we were in.

Happy Homeschooling!

Resources

 

 

 

 

 

Special Thanks to Our Network Sponsor - Change is in the Air Movie

This story embraces the imperfections that make us human, offers a way to set ourselves free and asks us all to take a good, long look at the wild birds in the sky.

Watch the trailer here!