Blogger Spotlight: This Mama Loves
This week, we're proud to feature Brett Martin of This Mama Loves in the Blogger Spotlight. For those new to the column, we highlight a member of The Daily Meal's Culinary Content Network, a limited group of bloggers who write about food and drink, every Friday.
We look to this group of talented food writers for inspiration and participation with The Daily Meal, whether for restaurant recommendations or new recipes to try out for dinner. Our editorial team covers All Things Food and Drink, and we tap the CCN to remain up to speed with what is happening around the country and the world — from fine dining to home cooking.
In addition to blogging at and creating This Mama Loves, Brett Martin has a background in early education and is a work-from-home mother of three children and numerous pets, including a dog, cat, fish, and six chickens.
In the kitchen, Brett tends to gravitate toward easy, delicious meals that don't take too much effort or time away from family.
The Daily Meal: What is the mission of your blog?
Brett Martin: To boldly go where no blog has gone before. Or, to just share recipes and crafts and other content that helps make today's busy family life easier or simpler!
How did you get started with your blog?
Quite by accident, actually!
What are some foods you can't live without?
Chocolate, applesauce, chai spice, and vanilla extract.
What is your proudest blog post?
This is hard to choose. Do you pick a recipe? A craft? A travel? A meaningful? I think my favorite was actually the hardest to write, and by far the saddest. But it resulted in dozens of emails of others responding that they were also afraid to not be OK (post: Not doing OK today), and it made them feel more OK with NOT feeling OK.
What is your biggest blog blunder?
I would think that my biggest blunder was not having a plan when I started (see above to "accidental beginning comment") and so my name was wrong, etc.
What is your most memorable comment from a reader?
"Your post made me cry" — not because it made her cry, but she felt that connection I wasn't sure others might feel with me...
What's on your cooking playlist?
Children singing the song of "mommy can I."
What are some food blogs you love?
Oh... She Wears Many Hats, Pinch of Yum... Better in Bulk
What are some food apps you like?
Yummly, Big Oven, How to Cook Everything (They aren't kidding, FYI).
What is the best thing about blogging?
Expressing and being creative, and being paid for working from home.
What is the worst thing about blogging?
It can be 24/7... and many folks still don't know what exactly it is a blogger does.
What recipe are you currently obsessed with?
Skillet Meatball Stew. And things with apples.
What would even your most loyal followers be surprised to learn about you?
I have two tattoos. I am kind of an open book.
Five of your all-time favorite posts?