Comfort and Joy

When I was teaching, I was a big believer in the classroom environment being comfortable, welcoming, and just the right amount of stimulating.  If you walked in my room during independent reading or writing time you would find kids scattered throughout the room.  Some liked to stay at their seats, but others preferred to spread out on the floor with a carpet square, or on the rug.  The lucky ones got a spot on the special couch for the day. 

I have always required a lot of space when writing. I can still see the large table at the Dimond Library which I sat at many nights writing history paper after history paper.  Lately I have taken to my kitchen table or this spot on my kitchen counter.  As much as I’d like to draft manuscripts while sitting on the living room couch it simply doesn’t work for me. The only inspiration I seem to get while there is to turn on another episode of Property Brothers. Plus, there isn’t a safe place to keep my cup of coffee nearby.

So, if you, your students, or your kids are having trouble finding some inspiration, make the move.  Find a place that you feel comfortable and focused. The words will surely begin to flow and the manuscripts drafted will bring much joy to both the writer and reader. 

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