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When I first started teaching, I never imagined that one day I’d be recognized as Somerset County Teacher of the Year. To be honest, most days I’m just trying to keep up with lesson plans, keep my classroom running smoothly, and make sure my students feel loved and supported. Teaching is a job that so […]

Teaching

September 21, 2025

Becoming a Maine County Teacher of the Year

last year, I found out I was moving up to second grade after six years in first—& with that change came a big opportunity. I had been hoping for years to move into one of the trailers out back & finally got the chance. not only did this move give me a fresh start, but […]

Teaching

May 19, 2025

From Vision to Reality: How I Built My Outdoor Classroom

I’ve struggled with gut issues for as long as I can remember.it didn’t seem to matter what I ate—I’d end up bloated, uncomfortable, & wondering what I did wrong.dinner out? guaranteed stomach pain.a “healthy” lunch? still felt off.no matter how clean I ate, my digestion never felt normal. I tried everything—probiotics, enzymes, greens powders, gut […]

Wellness

May 18, 2025

The Core Four: The Simple Wellness Swaps That Changed Everything

When my husband and I bought our house, we didn’t have much to work with—no heating system, no furniture, and definitely no extra money. I was a first-year teacher, and he was a social worker, so our budget was tight. We didn’t have the luxury of walking into a furniture store and picking out matching […]

Home

December 31, 2024

Thrifting Our Home: How We Furnished Our Dream House on a Budget

thriting

Easing into the Day: The Power of Morning Exploration Mornings in the classroom set the tone for the entire day. But let’s be honest—kids aren’t the only ones who need a moment to adjust after walking through the door. We all need time to ease into our routines, whether it’s sipping coffee, catching up with […]

Teaching

December 28, 2024

Reimagining Morning Work: Play-Based Exploration for Skill Building in the Classroom

morning work

Being a teacher is more than just showing up for a job—it’s a part of who we are. But with the constant hustle, it’s easy to feel stretched thin, caught between wanting to give our best to our students and needing time for ourselves.If you’re feeling that pull, wondering how to keep showing up without […]

Wellness

December 21, 2024

From Burnout to Balance: Practical Wellness Tips Every Teacher Needs

i’m here to remind teachers that while we pour our hearts into our students, we deserve to pour into ourselves too. from setting healthy boundaries to creating joyful, intentional spaces at home,

it’s all about finding balance. whether you’re looking for teaching tips, wellness inspiration, or ways to live more fully, this space is for you.

teacher. coffee drinker. dog lover. wellness junky. 

Karyn

HI, i'm

Sharing Real & Honest teacher life Since 2019

Empowering teachers to pour into themselves while they pour their hearts into their students. From setting healthy boundaries to creating joyful, intentional spaces at home, this space is here to help you find balance. Whether you’re seeking teaching tips, wellness inspiration, or ways to live more fully, you belong here.

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by karyn bigelow