I spent the entire weekend decorating for Christmas. I told myself that I wasn’t going “all out” this year. I planned to do just enough, so I wouldn’t feel like the Grinch. Well, my “just enough” turned into me going “all out” again. Sigh. I can’t help it. I feel like I owe it to my kids.

Growing up, I can remember my mom decorating for the holidays – how she made each holiday feel special. I specifically remember one Christmas, I was probably about eight years old, I was sitting in front of the T.V. watching a Charlie Brown Christmas with my Kool Aid and popcorn. I actually remember looking up and thinking how pretty everything looked. Our family room sparkled with garland and colorful Christmas lights draped from one end of the room to the other. I can remember how I felt. It was the best feeling in the world to be engulfed in our own Christmas wonderland. Everything was so festive and beautiful. She did that every Christmas and every holiday. Growing up in my home, with my parents, has left me with wonderful memories that have lasted a lifetime. My childhood seemed perfect – no cares in the world and looking forward to the next holiday or celebration that my mother would prepare for.

I have taken on that same tradition in my own home. I want my own children to experience the same childhood I was so lucky to have. Decorating is just an extension of my love for them. Creating memories and traditions is a big part of who I am. I have learned that from my own mother.

In a sense, classroom decorating is very similar. You are creating an environment where the children enjoy coming. How do they feel in your classroom? Is it a place where children are celebrated? I guarantee you, if you take the time to create a special classroom for your students, they will remember. As I mentioned, decorating is an extension of my love for my children. It is also an extension of how much I care about my profession and the children I teach. When you see a room where the teacher has taken the time to create a special environment, you get the impression that they care. What does your classroom say about you?

Here are a few pics of my house! Enjoy!