Happy New Year, friends! In this week-in-my-life vlog, I’m taking you along for our first week back in 2026—and thankfully it was only a three-day week. It’s the perfect little reset after break: getting back into our routines, easing into the classroom rhythm again, and just soaking up those “happy days” moments that remind me why I love teaching 3rd grade. I’m sharing a realistic look at what those first days back feel like—getting organized, getting my teacher brain back online, and jumping back into the flow of the school week without the pressure of a full five days. If you’re a teacher heading back after a break (or you just love teacher vlogs), this one is all about starting the year strong, keeping things simple, and building momentum one day at a time. And if you want to see more of my teaching journey and classroom life, you can always follow along here and on Instagram @mrs_katie_in_elementary!