Let me introduce you to my friend Holly from Creative Capes. She makes amazing personalized handmade capes, masks, and shields for children, empowering them to unleash their inner heroes.

I lovingly call Holly my "business bestie" because we get along so well and enjoy chatting about all things imaginative play, female entrepreneurship, and the magic of childhood.

My son Shiloh absolutely adores his superhero cape from Creative Capes and all the cool accessories that came with it. I am particularly impressed with how silky the cape feels and the sturdy stitching. Every kid needs one of these.

Holly makes capes in all colors and sizes - even ones for adults. I'm not even kidding when I tell you that after seeing Shiloh swish around the house in his cape, my husband said he needs one too (Hello Father's Day gift!).

Please check out Creative Capes and remember it the next time you need a freshen up the playroom costume collection!

Let me to share a little story about ABC blocks and why they hold such a special place in my heart.

Nearly 18 years ago, my oldest daughter Evangeline was just a plump 9-month-old bundle of joy and cuteness. My husband was away for a few months, doing military training at a base in Alabama. With baby in tow, I headed down to spend a few weeks with him. The base housing we stayed in was minimally furnished, and I hadn't brought along many toys.

Especially in the mornings, I needed to find something to keep Evangeline occupied while I got ready. I remembered how much she enjoyed the toys at my parents' home, which we had just visited. These were all toys I had also played with as a child - a big red apple with a cheery bell (classic Fisher Price), pretend peas + carrots, and a classic set of ABC blocks whose sides were worn down to a silky smooth patina from hours of play.

I found a little toy shop in the local town near the base with a set of solid maple ABC blocks -  I still remember setting them on the floor for the first time and watching Evangeline's eyes light up.

In the subsequent weeks, she and I played and played and played with those blocks. We stacked and toppled down. We babbled about the letters and pictures printed on each block. I think at one point, Evangeline may have taken a favorite block to sleep with her. Once we were back home from that Alabama visit, those blocks continued to be a favorite.

Even now, 18 years later, the blocks still sit in a basket on the shelf. They evoke such sweet nostalgia and a tangible reminder of how magical playtime can be for both parent and child.

It's fascinating how something as simple as playing with blocks during childhood can have far-reaching benefits later in life. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has done research that underscores how block play in early childhood can shape cognitive development and mathematical skills in adolescence. It's a testament to the importance of play in childhood and its lasting impact on cognitive growth and development.

My family and I have been back in the states for six months now. The whirlwind of unpacking boxes, settling in a new city, helping my kids get acclimates at new schools has occupied much of my attention. But with the new year, we are all feeling much more settled and I've turned more of my energy back to Brimful.

First order of business - a fresh new post for the blog.

The first few months of the year always feel a little slow - perhaps it's the cold weather or maybe we're all just waiting for spring to come! I find myself looking for  the little things that will make these winter days feel a bit brighter. So, this post is dedicated to all things cozy and feeling fresh when it's grey and cold outside.

Extra High-Waisted Jogger Sweatpants - Emily Schuman has mentioned these sweatpants several times on Instagram and since the ones I have are 20 years old (not even kidding!), I decided to get a pair. Fast forward a few months and I now have three pairs! They really are so comfortable, priced well, and hit the waist at just the right spot. (I do recommend line drying to keep them from shrinking.)

Marrekesh 1000 Piece Puzzle - When boredom hits, I love doing puzzles! Eeboo makes such lovely ones that are illustrated inclusively and this Marrekesh puzzle is next on my list. I'm telling you, doing puzzles are like free therapy.

Keap Candles - This beautiful candle company was featured on Cup of Jo a few years ago and I was intrigued enough that I signed up for a candle subscription. I love how intentional the brand is about being eco-friendly and really - the candles smell absolutely amazing.

Maree Eye Gel Pads - I'm a perpetually exhausted mother of four children ages 9 to 17. Need I say more? (wink) These eye gels really freshen up my face after a poor night's sleep. The sparkly bright colors of each set are such a mood booster!

Wild Tonic Jun - Last summer, I discovered the delicious flavor of jun - the lesser known sibling of kombucha. Upon drinking it daily for a few weeks, I saw a huge improvement in my gut health. It also makes a refreshing drink for the afternoons, when energy starts to wane.

Set of 6 Melamine Cups - The spoons + forks from Rice DK have been a huge hit with my whole family for a good ten years now. And now we have cups to match! These are about the size of a shot glass - which are a delightful size for a quick sip of juice or to hold a handful of chocolate chips. I wasn't sure how well my kids would like them - but they are all fans.

Badger Vinyl Sticker - Use it as a book mark, add it to a water bottle, or stick it on the front of a journal binder! Stickers are the perfect little something that bring a smile. I love having a stash of them to give to the special people in my life.

Hand Creme - My sister gave this hand creme to me for Christmas and this particular scent smells heavenly. Winter and hand creme, they just kind of go together, right?

Anytime Centering Cards - I think no matter the age, we could all use a bit more centering and education around our emotions. These cards gently guide parents and kids how to regulate breathing and redirect focus when social situations feel difficult to navigate. Another resource I have found helpful with my older kids are these printable affirmation cards.

Nourishing Lip Balm - I am always looking for a lip balm for my chapped winter lips and this one really works well. It's luxuriously thick without being sticky. Give it a try!

Pencil Pouch - Is there such a thing as too many pouches? I think not! I use small fabric pouches for all sorts of things - and of course, for pencils too. The design of this one is gender neutral and holds enough pencils and crayons for when kids are out and wish to draw or color. And if needed, a few pieces of candy can fit in there too.