August 31, 2016 (244/366)

de ri·gueur də riˈɡər,rēˈɡœr/ (adjective) required by etiquette or current fashion. synonyms: fashionable, in fashion, in vogue, modish, up to date, up-to-the-minute, all the rage, du jour, trendy, with it, customary, standard, conventional, normal, orthodox, usual, comme il faut; compulsory, necessary, essential;

As educators scramble to set up classrooms while students decorate lockers and unwrap new school supplies (Don't you just love new notebooks, pencils, markers, etc.?!), I am inspired by Charles Schulz's creative space in Santa Rosa, California. "Sparky" surrounded himself not only with the necessary tools to do his work but also with photos of his travels and family, with words of inspiration and notes of gratitude, and a not-so-subtle reminder that « Ici, le sourire est de rigueur! » -- "Here a smile is fashionable." What a great reminder as a new school year begins to greet people and challenges with a welcoming gesture and a positive attitude.