Since the first time we learned about Mixmates from the creative folks at Caravan Shoppe, we've been looking forward to carrying their new blocks at Brimful! After a shipping delay that pushed delivery into the new year, it was with excitement I received our shipment of blocks last week. 

Sadly, because the quality of the blocks doesn't meet the high standards we've set here at Brimful, Annie and I have decided to not carry Mixmates.

There's no denying the design is pleasing and unique -we love it! But there are some improvements that need to be made. We hope these changes will take place and look forward to carrying Mixmates at that time. We're sorry to disappoint those of you who were planning to purchase these blocks at Brimful. 

We do have another shipment of wooden toys coming to the shop soon, so stay tuned!

xoxo,
Kari 

Put a camera in your child's hand and curiosity will overflow!

Each time my little ones take my iPhone (or Nikon!) and snap, snap, snap around the house, mundane objects and boring rooms suddenly beg for the camera's attention. The bathroom, dishes, doorknobs, (blurred) fingers, a closet, or the pattern on a simple door mat - they all become irresistible subjects.

Taking pictures is fun and it's something our little ones see us do everyday, so it's natural for them to want to copy us and document their own surroundings. And that's why I'm so pleased that Brimful offers such a lovely, sturdy, "first" camera. And it's even more pleasing to see that you love our camera as much as we do! 

Based on it's popularity, Annie and I wanted to have a special print made of this toy. A tremendous THANK YOU to Ruth Simons of GraceLaced for the beautiful watercolor print she created for us. 

I imagine this print hanging in a child's room or play room, and when they are old enough pointing and saying "That's my camera!" before they dash off to find said toy and play photographer all over again. 

xoxo,
Kari

 (Image source)

I really did not think a new recipe for "lemon + chicken" could surprise my tastebuds.

But apparently I hadn't tasted Jamie Oliver's version! His herb marinated chicken (with lemon) recipe is quite possibly THE BEST CHICKEN DISH I've ever had. It's quick, incredibly flavorful, and totally perfect for a fresh, fast weeknight meal. 

The recipe calls for a spatchcocked chicken (what we call "butterflied" here in the US), which a butcher can easily do for you if you don't wish to do it at home. An even easier way to make the dish is with boneless skinless chicken breasts. 

Pair chicken with a salad and rice/potatoes/rolls and dinner is served! Go here for the printable version of the recipe. 

I'm a busy mama, just like you. So when I find an easy, healthy meal that my whole family enjoys, I just can't wait to share it! Hope you try it out and love it. 

xoxo, 

Annie