I like nice things.  I like fancy.  I’ve recently discovered that accessorizing a Stanley is a thing.

Princess Diana once wore a sweater than read, “I’m a luxury few can afford,” and from the moment I saw it, I identified with that sentiment. And while I live a solidly middle class life, I do have posh sprinkles.  

My husband likes to cook fancy foods, which is a blessing because I cook to make sure the kids don’t starve—he cooks because he loves it.  He’s always adding spices and herbs to things and our children devour his smashed potatoes or his lemon rice.

While visiting family in Virginia this summer (please tell me I’m not alone in that I try and squeeze as many trips into the summer as I possibly can?  That’s a teacher thing, right?), my nephew made us his pre-game meal (he plays hockey—we’re hockey family).  It was a simple bowl of buttered spaghetti with shredded gouda cheese.  It wasn’t fancy. It was simple and uncomplicated, and I absolutely loved it.  

As we travelled back home, I realized that I could use that same idea this year.  Simple and uncomplicated.  There’s freedom in keeping things simple.  The flexibility to have fun with your students.  The freedom to explore a science concept or look at the people behind the events shaping the world.  I don’t have to create a space that looks like it’s come straight from Pinterest or a trending video. 

So, here’s to a school year of getting rid of all the extra noise and complications and pressures that rob my teacher’s heart of its joy, and finding the freedom to keep my classroom simple and uncomplicated in whatever ways I can.