Over the weekend I listened to the On Being podcast with Mary Catherine Bateson. Krista Tippett asked her what the word “homemaking” meant for her. She said, “creating an environment in which learning is possible.” I thought that was a beautiful description of the work that so many mothers and some fathers strive to do at home, but I know I for one fall short most of the time. When I stop to think what an environment looks like where learning is possible–the first thing that pops into my head is “less stuff and more space.” Maybe I am speaking for myself, but I never feel comfortable working in a room if there is clutter everywhere. It’s kind of like when I start dinner, I always have to clear my space a bit before I start cooking otherwise I feel overwhelmed. A year ago I read Kim John Payne’s book called Simplicity Parenting. From what I remember, he speaks to the fact that kids live in overstimulated environments these days. I guess in my ideal world, I want the interior of our home to be as soothing and calming as it is for the kids to be outdoors. How I achieve that, I’m not sure. I wonder how Zane and Zoey feel in our home. Maybe I should ask them.