Sparkle Schoolhouse
The Story is Only the Beginning! With the inspiration of each Sparkle Story as a beginning, the corresponding Sparkle Schoolhouse lesson continues the journey with wholesome enrichment, inspired tutorials and a welcoming community for our homeschooling Sparkle Parents, Adults, Teachers and Children.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings
In the Summer of 2005, I had a most remarkable experience: I witnessed a curious event that didn’t make sense within the confines of “reality”. What I saw seemed to be impossible until I engaged my imagination and came up with an explanation that “made sense”. And thus the “How to Be Super” series was born.
FIFTY Study Page: Missouri— "Rainbow Bridge"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the history of St. Louis as the Gateway to the American West and the history of the Gateway Arch Monument.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings
I’ve learned so many things in 2017, but one of them is the power of setting intentions. This is true not just for our business, but for our family as well.
FIFTY: Minnesota— " This House"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the relationship between geography (noting the presence of flint) and biography.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: Merry Christmas
As a family that often jumps into adventure and newness, we do best when we remember the value and nourishment that comes with tradition and sameness.
FIFTY Study Page: Kansas— "The Rivalry"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the history of the Kansas/Missouri conflict over Kansas becoming a state and its relationship to the Civil War.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: The Light in the Darkness: Sparkle Solstice
Candlelight in the dining room. A lighthouse shimmering from the open sea. The first star in the evening sky. These all carry the magical mood of Winter Solstice.
FIFTY Study Page: Maryland — "The Test Oath"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the impact of religion on U.S. history, particularly in Maryland.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: A Whole World Season of Lights
Two thousand years ago, Christmas was celebrated in one part of the world and only that part of the world. The same with Hanukkah and Yule—- on the world map, those festivals existed in a small geographic area.
FIFTY Study Page: Montana— "The Marriage Bar"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the History of Montana Territory and State, and the history of women’s rights in the American West.
Tips for a December Day of Rest
It’s no small thing to create space for rest in the busy month of December. But consider taking a page out of Martin and Sylvia’s book and imagine a few ways to restructure, reframe, or re-evaluate your activities so that you can take just one day for a few hours of restoration.
FIFTY Study Page: Rhode Island— "The Cohan Family Mirth Makers"
This story from the FIFTY collection focuses on the history of Rhode Island by exploring vaudeville, the backstory of American Theater, and the biography of George M Cohen.
Sparkle Weekly Wanderings: Happy Thanksgiving
As America launches into the season of gift giving and getting (and do consider the gift of stories this year - see below for big sale), we’d like to take a breath and talk about gratitude.
FIFTY Study Page: Massachusetts — "The Power of Thanksgiving"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the Native American history of the many tribes of New England and their interactions.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: Serving Up Gratitude
. Who did you celebrate Thanksgiving with in the past? What were your favorite dishes? These stories are pure gold and are guaranteed to create the kind of holidays your children will cherish and look forward to year after year.
FIFTY Study Page: Oklahoma— "Migrant Mother"
This story from the FIFTY collection is historical fiction that explores the History of the Dust bowl and the official "Indian Territory" of Oklahoma. The characters can be useful as reference points and inspirations. Read about our suggested topics for investigation!
Parent Cheat Sheet: Martin & Sylvia's Daily Advent Activities
As you are planning and preparing for your own Advent season, we thought you might enjoy a little "cheat sheet" for what’s ahead with Martin and Sylvia. You can let the ideas from the stories inspire your own daily activities.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: Veteran's Day - Military Families
For the last few weeks I’ve been talking to military spouses about life as an Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine family. I’ve learned a great deal in the process. I have had many friends who grew up in military families, but I now have even more appreciation and respect for this community.
FIFTY Study Page: Nevada— " The Telegram"
This story from the FIFTY collection uses historical fiction to explore the History of Nevada Territory, and of Morse Code, and the Telegraph technology.
Sparkle Weekly Wonderings: Lanterns and Lights
There might not be much light coming from your lantern, but it could make all the difference for someone experiencing the many darknesses around us.
