~♥Home Is Where The Heart Is♥~

~♥ Twitter ♥~

2012-01-14T11:25:00.000-05:00

Well friends, I've decided to join Twitter...want to see what I Tweet? Then click on the link to the right and follow me...my Tweets are protected so I'll have to approve you first...hope to see you there!

Happy Tweeting!

♥ Kim

~♥ It's A New Year ♥~

2012-01-07T15:10:00.000-05:00

Hello blogging friends...I'm sorry that I have been MIA...I decided to concentrate on family and friends and take a break from blogging for awhile. I had a wonderful Christmas and pray that you all did as well. I had the opportunity to spend some time with dear friends...one Saturday we went on a Christmas Home Tour and another Saturday I hosted a Christmas Cookie Exchange at my home. We also had the opportunity to visit with family as well.

Almond Wafers
Peanut Butter Mice
Cream Waters
Mocha Latte Cookies
Tumb Prints
Double Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Apricot Coconut Balls
Chocolate Mint Sugar Cookie Drops

I'm sorry that I never got around to posting any inside pictures before Christmas...

Thank you so much for stopping by...I hope to not be as scarce in 2012!

♥ Kim

~♥ The Outside ♥~

2011-12-06T08:39:00.000-05:00

The outside is decorated...the only thing missing is snow! I'm still working on the inside.

Thanks for stopping by,

♥ Kim

~♥ It's Time... ♥~

2011-12-03T08:23:00.000-05:00

to put away all of the fall decorations and start decorating for Christmas...

Stay tuned for Christmas pictures in the next coming week...thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~♥ Apple-Pecan Crisp ♥~

2011-11-09T08:25:00.001-05:00

I have always been fond of crisps especially during the fall months...there's nothing better than filling your home with the wonderful smell of something baking in the oven!

~♥ Apple-Pecan Crisp ♥~

from Betty Crocker Fall Baking Oct/Nov 2009

2/3 cup maple-flavored syrup (I used the real maple syrup)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

8 large baking apples, peeled and sliced

1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pieces

1 pouch (1 lb. 1.5 oz.) Betty Crocker oatmeal cookie mix

3/4 cup chopped pecans

Heat oven to 375 degrees.
In large bowl, stir together syrup, flour and cinnamon until blended. Add apples; toss until evenly coated. Spread in ungreased 13 x 9 inch (3 quart) baking dish.

In same bowl, with pastry blender, cut butter into cookie mix until mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in pecans. Crumble mixture over apples in baking dish.

Bake 30 minutes. Very loosly cover with foil; bake 10 minutes to 15 minutes longer or until apples are tender.

As they say, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." What a wonderful way to get your apples!

ENJOY!!!

♥ Kim

~♥ My How The Weather Changes ♥~

2011-11-06T10:47:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we had snow and now this weekend it's a beautiful but cold...

I love sharing this view with you!

Have a blessed Sunday!

♥ Kim

~♥ It's Snowing ♥~

2011-10-29T09:20:00.000-04:00

Woke up to snow this morning in Southwestern PA...

and it's still coming down!

♥ Kim

~♥ Words To Live By ♥~

2011-10-23T15:01:00.000-04:00

Isn't this the sweetest saying? I absolutely love what you can find on Pinterest!

Source: None via Clarice on Pinterest

~♥ Forgiveness ♥~

2011-10-09T15:39:00.000-04:00

♥ Kim

Graphic by: www.etsy.com/shop/InspireSomebodyLLC

~♥ When You Thought I Wasn't Looking ♥~

2011-10-08T09:20:00.000-04:00

by Mary Rita Schilke Korzan

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You hung my first painting on the refrigerator
And I wanted to paint another.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You fed a stray cat
And I thought it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You baked a birthday cake just for me
And I knew that little things were special things.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You said a prayer
And I believed there was a God that I could always talk to.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You kissed me good-night
And I felt loved.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
I saw tears come from your eyes
And I learned that sometimes things hurt—
But that it’s alright to cry.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You smiled
And it made me want to look that pretty too.

When you thought I wasn’t looking
You cared
And I wanted to be everything I could be.

When you thought I wasn’t looking—
I looked . . .
And wanted to say thanks
For all those things you did
When you thought I wasn’t looking.

♥ Kim

From the blog - http://paulocoelhoblog.com

~♥ Gooseberry Patch Freebies ♥~

2011-10-04T14:15:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends...how's the weather in your neck of the woods? It's been cold and rainy here in Southwestern Pennsylvania. I've been spending a lot of time indoors cleaning, organizing, and snuggling under a blanket catching up on my reading.

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Isn't that a darling Autumn graphic in my post? It came from Gooseberry Patch and speaking of Gooseberry Patch...I'd like to share a link with you that lists all of their freebies!

http://www.scribd.com/GooseberryPatch

Thanks for stopping by,

♥ Kim

Graphic by: www.gooseberrypatch.com

~♥ Words To Live By ♥~

2011-09-29T08:49:00.001-04:00

~♥ It's Been Awhile...♥~

2011-08-04T11:53:00.000-04:00

Hello friends...I wanted to let you know that I am still around...just haven't had much to blog about. I've been busy around my home, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying some down time by reading on my porch and deck.

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I thought I'd share a few pictures with you...

This is a vignette on the top of my Gram's sewing machine. I just found the miniature sewing machine at one of my favorite local stores: Collections by Marty

Measuring Cups from a Local Thrift Store

A Corner of my Kitchen

A sweet print by Susan Branch...If you haven't ever visited Susan Branch's website, I encourage you to do so...she has the sweetest blog and products. You can visit her by Clicking Here...you won't be disappointed! In an upcoming post I'll share with you about a book I won from Susan Branch and The Creative Connection.

My Baby Spoon

A Wooden Cross made for me by my little Friend, Gabby, who's 9.

My Little Furry Friend, Shadow...he turned 11 years old at the end of June.

My Cupboard in the Powder Room

I Love this Little Thrift Store Rabbit

A View of My Kitchen...someday I'll give you a peek into my pantry.

Thank you so much for stopping by...I love your visits!

♥ Kim

Graphic by the talented Susan Branch http://www.susanbranch.com

Used With Permission

~♥ Happy Saturday ♥~

2011-06-25T16:11:00.000-04:00

Spent a wonderful day with my friend, Daun...found this great barrel at a yard sale for $5.00.

Thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~♥ This and That ♥~

2011-06-23T14:10:00.000-04:00

Hi Friends...sorry I have been out of touch...there's been a lot going on these past few weeks...between graduation, my daughter turning 18 and starting college, plus a dear friends wedding, I haven't had the time to post anything and truthfully, I've been at a loss as to what to blog about...

(Thank you, Colleen N-S, for taking this pictures)

I still can't believe my daughter is 18!

I met Bridget through the wonderful world of blogging - that was several years ago - who knew that our friendship would blossom and that I would be a part of her special day...wishing you and Karl all of the best, dear kindred ♥

(Photo by Emily)

Thanks for stopping by...hopefully I'll have more to blog about...I'm going with my friend, Daun, to several yard sales and the local country market on Saturday!

♥ Kim

~♥ My Little Girl Is Growing Up ♥~

2011-06-02T10:04:00.000-04:00

Where has the time gone...it seems like yesterday I was sending you off to school for your first day of kindergarten and now you're graduating...

A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future. ~Author Unknown

2011-05-30T09:13:00.000-04:00

Visit www.gooseberrypatch.com

~♥ Green Is My Favorite Color ♥~

2011-05-22T12:34:00.000-04:00

With all of the rain we've been having, everything is so nice and green...let's take a look around!

I never get tired of this view.

Peonies getting ready to bloom.

Wildflowers

My favorite Maple tree.

The Barn

Whoa...don't forget to stop!

A peek at the tractor.

I love to sit on my porch.

Thanks for stopping by...I always enjoy your company.

♥ Kim

~♥ Hallelujah by Heather Williams ♥~

2011-05-11T18:49:00.000-04:00

Amazing song by Heather Williams...please turn off music player at the bottom of the blog before playing video...Enjoy and God Bless!!!

~♥ Chalkboard & Sheets ♥~

2011-05-05T14:28:00.000-04:00

I love chalkboards, but dealing with real chalkboards and chalk can be a pain. Here's an easy solution: I took an old picture frame and added a piece of black scrapbooking paper in place of a picture and viola...I have an almost new chalkboard. The Chalkink markers write wonderfully on glass, and clean-up is fairly easy. Once the Chalkink dries on the glass (I like the fact that it won't smear once it's dry), you can clean it off with just plain water.

If you've never tried Chalkink markers, I would urge you to do so. You can find them at Michael's or a similar craft store, but the best selection can be found on their website. http://www.chalkink.com/ I am recommending them from my own experience...I have not received any type of compensation from them.

I have always been a plain white sheets type of gal. When Tina from Cherry Hill Cottage posted about her polka doted sheets from Wal-mart, I must say I thought they were adorable...I looked at these sheets in the past, but never bought them...how could I go from all white to polka-dots??? $10.00 a set on clearance was enough of a deal for me to try them, along with a green set.

Thanks for stopping by...I always enjoy the company!

♥ Kim

~♥ Spring Decorating ♥~

2011-04-18T10:02:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends...just wanted to let you know that I am still around. I did a little decorating and wanted to share it with you...enjoy!

Have a fabulous week...and as always, thank you for taking the time to stop by for a visit.

I really appreciate it!

♥ Kim

~♥You Are More by Tenth Avenue North♥~

2011-04-04T12:53:00.000-04:00

Please turn off my music player below before you listen to this great song...

Enjoy and God Bless!

~The Wait Is Over~

2011-03-01T14:08:00.000-05:00

The winning entry for the

Gooseberry Patch

Best Ever Cookies

cookbook is listed below:

Lesa said...

I would love to have this cookbook. I love to bake cookies for my family & friends. These cookies look sooooo good ! ! ! Thanks so much for the opportunity to win this cookbook.

Love in Christ,

Lesa

And now for my bonus giveaway:

A Gooseberry Patch Meal Planner

with Recipe Cards

tbleau1 said...
Please enter me in this wonderful contest. Crossing my fingers and toes. LOL!!!

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A special thank you to everyone who entered my giveaway...I wish I had a cookbook/meal planner to give to each one of you!

♥ Kim

p.s. I'll be posting the recipes for the cookies that I baked on my Baking Blog within the next week or so!

~♥Gooseberry Patch Cookbook Review and Giveaway♥~

2011-02-21T15:51:00.000-05:00

Well blogging friends, I've left you in suspense long enough...Gooseberry Patch contacted me about being an Early Bird Reviewer.

As a lover of cookies, and who isn't, I couldn't pass up the offer to review, "Best Ever Cookies". It was very difficult to decide which cookies to try. As usual, Gooseberry Patch came through with a wonderful selection of recipes. There are eight categories to choose from...they are as follows:

Cookie Jar Classics

Holiday Cookies

All-American Cookies

Old-Fashioned Cookies

Best-Ever Brownies and Bars

Fast and Fun Cookies

Light and Healthy Cookies

Big-Batch Cookies

I finally decided to make Pecan Praline Cookies from the All-American Cookie Section. These cookies were very quick and easy to make. They were crispy on the outside and moist and chewy on the inside. It was all I could do to stop eating them (there goes my diet...lol)!

My second selection was Apricot Truffles from the Fast and Fun Cookie Section. The hardest part of making these was chopping the apricots...after that, it was smooth sailing. The truffles actually get better after a few days when all of the flavors blend together (the apricots got sweeter). My husband loved them and he's usually only a lover of chocolate.

If you love cookies and Gooseberry Patch, then you should definitely add this cookbook to your collection. It would also make a great gift for a Bride-to-Be. Along with the recipes, you will find helpful hints, ideas, and quotes at the bottom of the pages...this is one of my favorite features of the Gooseberry Patch Cookbooks.

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Would you like to have a copy of this cookbook? Gooseberry Patch has graciously given me an extra copy of "Best Ever Cookies" to give away to one lucky individual.

Only one comment per person, please.
I will need an email address as well, if you don't have a blog.

If you are not the winner, you can always preorder this cookbook by CLICKING HERE

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Want to order Gooseberry Patch products?

www.gooseberrypatch.com

Want to read the Gooseberry Patch blog?

http://www.gooseberrypatch.typepad.com/blog/

Want to follow Gooseberry Patch on Facebook?

www.facebook.com/gooseberrypatch

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Thanks so much for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~♥JJ Heller - What Love Really Means (Official Music Video)♥~

2011-02-14T14:03:00.000-05:00

Please be sure and turn the music off below before you play the video...Be blessed!

~♥ Hello Friends ♥~

2011-02-10T11:01:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that I'm still here...and that I have a surprise for you in the next couple of weeks...here's a hint of what's coming up:

Here's another hint:

That's all I'm going to say for now...so stay tuned!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Several of you inquired about my kitchen curtains. They were purchased several years ago at Kmart...unfortunately they are no longer available.

I haven't been able to find anything similar at Kmart, Wal-mart or Target. One source that may be of interest to you is:

www.countrycurtains.com

They have a great selection of curtains, but I've never purchased anything from them.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Have a wonderful day my dear blogging friends!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

2011-01-18T10:47:00.000-05:00

how are you dear blogging friends?

thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind comments and words of encouragement about my blogging...i appreciate it more than i could ever express!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

i know a lot of you have been dealing with snow...my Dear Daughter had several snow days so we spent some time together...we made some mints and baked some cookies...i love my mother/daughter time and treasure it...you see, my daughter is a senior in high school and this is the last year we will have snow days that we can share together...precious memories are what i hold dear to my heart...

this cake stand and cover were thrift store finds...the bottom i found years and years ago...the top was found back in december...they are a perfect match!

i also found the two clear glass juicers at the thrift store in december...the green one belonged to my Dear Gram...i am going to look for more when i'm out and about...looks like i have a new collection started...

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

before you go...here are a few pictures of what it looks like in my neck of the woods!

thank you so much for stopping by!

♥ Kim

2011-01-10T15:35:00.000-05:00

~♥ Let there be kindness in your face, in your eyes, in your smile, in the warmth of your greeting. Don't only give your care, but give your heart as well. ♥~

Mother Teresa

I have decided, dear friends, that I will blog when I have time...it may be once a month or once a week...only time will tell.

Thank you for sticking with me...I really appreciate it!

♥ Kim

It's A New Year...

2011-01-06T10:05:00.000-05:00

and that means time for a few changes...

(sorry for the poor lighting on this picture)

as much as I love blogging I need to cut down on the amount of time I blog and read blogs...there are so many things going on that need my attention and I feel that I'm taking away from what should be a priority, my family and my home.

There may be a few other changes taking place as well, but I'll let you know when they happen.

As always, I appreciate all of your visits to my blog...thank you for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~♥ Merry CHRISTmas ♥~

2010-12-23T22:43:00.000-05:00

12/24 - I added a few more pictures of my kitchen at the bottom of the post, so please take a look if you haven't seen them before.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Thank you all so much for your visits and sweet comments on my last post...I really appreciate it!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Last weekend I hosted a cookie exchange at my home with some of my dearest friends...I thought I'd share a few pictures with you.

Did you notice "The Farm Chicks Christmas" book? If you haven't gotten yours, you are missing out...what a darling book. I found mine at Michaels.

What a wonderful time with dear friends. We all received a nice selection of cookies...now, if I can just control how many I eat.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Here are a few pictures of my kitchen at CHRISTmas:

Thank you all so much for your visits during this past year...I'm taking a blogging break until the beginning of 2011.

Have a blessed CHRISTmas, blogging friends.

♥ Kim

~♥ Come On In ♥~

2010-12-13T11:06:00.000-05:00

It's time for a little Christmas tour around the old farmhouse...

This is atop my desk where I do my blogging.

The Living Room

The Kitchen

My Canisters from Walmart decorated with Chalkink Markers

Above my Pantry

The Laundry Room

The Powder Room

Thank you for stopping by for a visit...I hope you enjoyed this little tour. I still have more decorating to do and if I have the time, I'll post a few more pictures. I'm busy this week baking for my upcoming cookie exchange, plus there are presents to wrap, etc. Have a wonderful day and please come back again soon!

♥ Kim

p.s. I hope you all took advantage of the free gift tags from Gooseberry Patch that I posted about...if not, check out my previous post to find out how you can get yours!
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I'm linking with The Nester

http://www.thenester.com

~♥ Free Printable Gift Tags ♥~

2010-12-11T12:51:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon sweet blogging friends...I hope you all are well and are busy preparing for the holidays. Some decorating has taken place at my home, but I'm not quite finished. I also have some baking to do for my upcoming cookie exchange.

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Just look what I found from Gooseberry Patch...I had to share this with you...wouldn't these look wonderful on the gifts you're giving this year?

Click Here and you can go and print some of your own. I'm planning on using my scrapbooking scissors to add a decorative edge when I cut them out. Plus I'll use some of my Martha Stewart glitter to jazz them up a little :)

Have a wonderful day and thanks so much for stopping by!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ Gifts and Gobs ♥~

2010-12-07T14:39:00.000-05:00

Hello blogging friends...not sure what the weather is like in your neck of the woods, but it has been snowing like crazy here for a couple of days...not the kind of snow for making snowmen, but the kind that is fluffy.

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Several days ago I received a package in the mail and this is what I found when I opened it.

I just couldn't wait until Christmas to open them!

My dear blogging friend, Kelli from
"Lovely Vintage Country Life" sent these to me...I was so touched by her kindness...won't you stop over to say hello to her...she has a sweet blog.
Click Here to visit Kelli.
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I know you're all curious what I gave my friend, Lisa, as a gift for hosting the Gob making party.

Here is what I gave her...

We had so much fun that I thought I'd share a few pictures of the Gob making party with you.

Debbie making the icing.

Lisa measuring the ingredients.

Sally and Lisa (oh no, Sally blinked)

Me and Lisa

Sue and Debbie

The best way to drink tea...with a candy cane in it!

Sally, Sue and Debbie

Me and Lisa

Ready to put into the oven.

There's nothing better than a Gob!

Here's the happy group of Gob makers!
(sorry, Sue, not sure why I am soooo close)
L to R - Me, Sue, Debbie, Sally & Lisa

Thanks for stopping by...I always enjoy the company.
♥ Kim

p.s. A special thank you to the ladies from the Gob making party for allowing me put their pictures on my blog. Thanks to Sue for the use of several of her pictures.

~♥ Christmas Is In The Air ♥~

2010-11-27T10:38:00.000-05:00

Here in Southwestern PA I awoke this morning to some snow flurries...it was so delightful being in the nice cozy house and seeing the snow swirling about outside.

Have you all started decorating for Christmas? While I haven't at my home...I usually don't start until December 1st...I have decided to change the look of my blog...I hope you like it.

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I was invited to go to a Gob making party later today...doesn't that sound yummy? My dear friend, Lisa, is hosting the event. I wanted to give her a little gift for being so sweet...while I can't show you what I am giving to her (just in case she reads my blog) I can show you a picture of how I wrapped it...I was inspired by

Gooseberry Patch.

And speaking of Gooseberry Patch...I hope you'll watch the video above...it's so inspiring and has gotten me excited about my upcoming Christmas Cookie Exchange that I am hosting at my home on Saturday, December 18th.

These are the cookies I made last year.

Enjoy!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ Things That Make Me Smile ♥~

2010-11-05T13:59:00.000-04:00

There is no place I'd rather be than at H♥ME...seeing certain things puts a smile on my face...here are a few of them:

A large fork, knife and spoon...my dear Gram had something similar on her wall when I was growing up.

A picture of my sweet M♥M when she was a little girl.

This whimsical vase

Buttons that belonged to my dear Gram that she collected over the years.

A picture of the log house my dear Gram grew up in.

A picture of my dear Hubby when he was a year old (sorry for the glare).

A picture of my hubby and his older brothers in their cowboy hats and western wear...

And of course, visits from dear blogging friends always puts a smile on my face as well!

♥ Kim

~♥ It's Pumpkin Carving Time ♥~

2010-10-26T15:16:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends...long time no write! Hope all is well in your homes.

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My dear Daughter and her boyfriend carved pumpkins over the weekend and I wanted to share them with you...I think they turned out adorable.

Emily's Pumpkin on the Left; Anthony's on the Right

Aren't they such a cute couple?

Thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~* 25 Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes *~

2010-10-10T08:24:00.000-04:00

There's nothing better than chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven and a large glass of cold milk...you're hungry now, aren't you??? Well, time to start baking....ENJOY!

25 Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes by Gooseberry Patch

♥ Kim

~♥A Little Fall Decorating ♥~

2010-09-19T13:37:00.000-04:00

Hello sweet blogging friends! I'm finally getting around to adding some Fall touches in my home. I thought I'd share a few with you.

One of my favorite Gooseberry Patch cookbooks...isn't the cover just darling?

My little school chalkboard. I love using my Chalk Ink Markers.

My Hutch...one of my favorite pieces in my kitchen!

A Fall Wreath

I love this chippy little chair. I purchased it several years ago from my church. This was one of the chairs that I sat on at my beloved little church when I was around three or four years old.

Thanks for stopping by, dear friends!

♥ Kim

P.S. Be sure and click on the words Gooseberry Patch and Chalk Ink Markers above...they'll take you to these wonderful websites.

Graphics by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

Laurie Lewis - Who Will Watch the Home Place?

2010-09-16T13:43:00.000-04:00

Another favorite song I had to share...Enjoy!

(Please be sure and turn off my music playlist below before watching)

♥ Kim

~♥ They Grow Up So Fast ♥~

2010-09-06T08:20:00.000-04:00

It seems like yesterday that I was putting my dear daughter on the bus for her first day of Kindergarten and here she is on her last first day of school as she enters her Senior year.

It's amazing to me how time has flown by!

Cherish every minute you have with your children because it seems like you blink and they're all grown up!

♥ Kim

~♥ Yard Sale Goodies ♥~

2010-08-23T16:14:00.000-04:00

Hello sweet blogging friends...long time no post! I am still here, just haven't had anything to post about or so I thought. I realized that I hadn't shared what I found yard saling back in June and here it is the end of August! My oh my how time flies...

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I love this basket...I bought it for $5.00

This wreath was $3.00

These sweet little lambs (made from bone china not resin) were $2.00

and last but not least, a juicer for $1.00

Thank you so much for stopping by...I'm hoping to post more regularly in September. My dear daughter starts her senior year of high school on August 30th...I can't believe it. It seems like yesterday she was starting kindergarten!

♥ Kim

2010-08-05T09:34:00.000-04:00

Hello sweet friends...so glad that you enjoyed the video I posted by Miranda Lambert...that song really spoke to my heart so I just had to share it!

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I wanted to share my latest bargain with you...I found this wreath at Michael's for $29.99...it is pretty big and was priced at $99.99 before I got it on clearance. I've been looking for a wreath just like this..it has the colors I love...gotta have me some RED!

The bow matches my curtains...this made me so happy!

I also wanted to share this sweet gift that was given to me by my lovely friend, Bridget...what a sweet gal she is...we have so much in common...she really is a "Kindred Spirit."

Thank you, honey bun! I have it on my hutch in the kitchen where I can see it...it really brings a smile to my face.

Thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me

2010-08-02T13:50:00.000-04:00

I ♥ this song!

(Be sure and turn the music off below if you wish to play the video.)

~♥ Cricut Project ♥~

2010-07-30T15:32:00.000-04:00

Hello sweet blogging friends...so sorry that I haven't been around. I must confess that I've been playing with my Cricut...my first project you will see in the pictures below. My dear daughter's boyfriend's graduation party is coming up tomorrow and I agreed to make the card box. It sure was a lot of fun.

I took a large cardboard box and Modge Podged old dictionary pages all over the box. I used my Cricut to cut out all of the letters and numbers.

I'm pretty happy with how my first project turned out. Thanks for stopping by to take a look!

♥ Kim

~♥ There's Nothing Better ♥~

2010-07-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

than freshly laundered and ironed doilies...now to remember where each of them belongs...it may be a long afternoon!

Thanks for stopping by,

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

~♥ I'm So Excited ♥~

2010-07-11T12:56:00.000-04:00

I've been wanting a Cricut machine for such a LONG time...found one at Overstock.com (Click Here to go to the website).

I'm anxiously awaiting it's arrival!

I've also wanted this book and bought it as well.

I'm considering these early birthday presents!

Do any of you have a Cricut or this sweet book? What are your thoughts about them if you do?

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

Pictures courtesy of: http://www.overstock.com/

~♥ Have A Happy 4th ♥~

2010-07-03T08:01:00.000-04:00

Wishing you and your family and very safe and Happy 4th of July!

What will you and your family be doing this holiday weekend? Our family will be going to High Point Raceway in Mt. Morris, PA to watch our daughter's boyfriend (he's #582) ride. He does Motocross. We'll be watching fireworks later that evening!

Photo by my Dear Daughter, Emily

~♥ My Porch ♥~

2010-06-26T11:23:00.000-04:00

I ♥ my front porch! I have so many fond memories of sitting on my dear Gram's front porch that I always dreamed of having a porch of my own.

I ♥ porch swings!

I wish you were able to sit on my porch with me...oh the wonderful things we could talk about!

Thanks for stopping by,

♥ Kim

~♥ Church Bazaar Finds ♥~

2010-06-13T13:58:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends...I hope you all are well. Thank you so much for your sweet comments on my last post, "Laundry Room Update". I do love my laundry room, but laundry isn't exactly my favorite chore so I decided to spruce it up to make it a more cheerful place to be.

Several weeks ago, our church had it's annual bazaar...it has been going on for many many years and I have loved it ever since I was a small child! I thought I'd share with you some of the treasures I found.

I ♥ this clothes pin...look at how the metal swirls...that makes me smile!

Glass bottles that I filled with various vinegars.

I didn't have a clue what these were until my friend, Pam, sent me this link (Click Here to View) I bought them because I loved the rooster on them. It turns out that they are vintage goblet rounds/coasters.

Lovely little napkins with a rooster to match the coasters.

A glass jar, but I'm not sure what I'm going to put in it...maybe some candy???

Several cookie cutters to add to my collection

A ceramic dog

A ceramic duck and her babies

A wreath with blue berries on it

Grand total: $4.00

Thanks for stopping by blogging friends...I always enjoy your visits!

Until next time...

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥Laundry Room Update ♥~

2010-05-27T09:24:00.000-04:00

This is how my laundry tub has looked for almost five years...I felt it was time for a change!

This is how the laundry tub looks without being covered...not very pretty and I'm all about making something look pretty.

And this is how it looks after...I purchased new curtains from the Better Homes and Gardens collection at Wal-mart and used a tier to cover my laundry tub.

I bought these rods (I only needed one) ...

attached it with removable velcro.

These are my new valances (sorry the picture is so dark).

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Here are a few more pictures of the laundry room.

I want my washer to look pretty when it's not in use.

Hmmm...just realized the scarf is wrinkled...sorry about that!

This is a picture of my great grandma doing laundry...she's on the right.

It really makes me appreciate my washer and dryer.

Thank you so much for stopping by blogging friends...I always enjoy your company!

♥ Kim

p.s. Thank you all for your wonderful and sweet comments that you left on my previous post about my screen door update!

~♥ My Screen Door ♥~

2010-05-20T13:57:00.000-04:00

I ♥ old wooden screen doors. This door has been on our home since 1963 when my In-Laws lived in this house. My door recently got a makeover....there was no way I would ever part with this door because it's seen too many people come and go in it's 47 years in existance.

My dear Hubby and I went to Lowe's and found wooden accent pieces. He graciously accepted the duty of painting them and attaching them to the door.

Here's an up close and personal look...isn't she pretty?

Thanks for stopping by, dear friends!

♥ Kim

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Thank you all for the kinds words you left on my last post,

"My Daughter's Prom." She had a wonderful time with her boyfriend and friends!

~♥ My Daughter's Prom ♥~

2010-05-16T08:32:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends...first of all, thank you so much for the congratulatory wishes for my daughter on getting her license...how very kind of all of you! We appreciate it from the bottom of our heart!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I wanted to share some pictures of my sweet daughter again. Her prom was held on Friday, May 14th. While the weather wasn't the greatest, we did manage to get some pictures before it hailed! They were also able to get to their destination without any weather problems as well.

Emily and Anthony...her boyfriend of one year. He is a senior this year and she is a junior.

They met last year in biology class...sat across from each other.

Thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~♥ I'm So Proud ♥ ~

2010-05-10T19:57:00.000-04:00

My Dear Daughter, Emily, is now a licensed driver. She passed her driver's test on Saturday, so it was a great Mother's Day present. This Friday is her first prom.

My oh my how time flies!

♥ Kim

~♥ For My Mom ♥~

2010-05-09T07:44:00.000-04:00

"The Watcher"
by Margaret Widdemer

She always leaned to watch for us,

Anxious if we were late,

In winter by the window,

In summer by the gate.

And though we mocked her tenderly,

Who had such foolish care,

The long way home would seem more safe

Because she waited there.

Her thoughts were all so full of us,

She never could forget!

And so I think that where she is

She must be watching yet.

Waiting till we come home to her,

Anxious if we are late,

Watching from Heaven’s window,

Leaning on Heaven’s gate.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom...

It's been 20 years since you went home to be with the Lord

and there's not a day that goes by that I do not miss you.

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ Gooseberry Patch Wallpaper ♥~

2010-05-01T11:52:00.000-04:00

for your computer!

Click Here to get yours.

Have a wonderful weekend, dear friends.

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

2010-04-26T10:40:00.000-04:00

Good morning blogging friends! I'm glad you enjoyed the pictures of my powder room. I appreciate all of your wonderful comments.

Aren't these flowers pretty? I won this center piece at a Bridal Shower...can't wait to put in on my porch.

I'm not sure what I'll be posting about next. Any ideas on what you'd be interested in seeing? I'd love to hear your ideas!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

~♥ Powder Room Pictures ♥~

2010-04-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

Good Morning! I thought I'd show you some pictures of my powder room. It's just off the laundry room. I recently bought new valances from Wal-mart. These are by Better Homes and Gardens...aren't they pretty?

Most of these items were thrift store finds...the little plant, the small pictures, apothocary jars, the bird house.

The little wheel barrow is a Hallmark ornament from several years ago.

My favorite shelf in this cupboard.

My dear Mom as a little girl...she was 8 years old.

Would you believe this is a little vase?

Thank you all for stopping by to visit...I really appreciate it!

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ I Love Red ♥~

2010-04-07T11:39:00.000-04:00

Good sunny morning to you sweet blogging friends! I was on the lookout for more RED and found these lovely pictures at the Country Living website.

This bedding...

and this bedding is from Kmart's Country Living Collection.

The dishes are as well...looks like I'm making a trip to my local Kmart.

Isn't this a lovely porch? I just ♥ the steps leading up to it...makes me smile! There's nothing better than a RED glider.

Thanks for stopping by...I always enjoy your company.

Have a lovely day!

♥ Kim

~♥ And The Winner Is... ♥~

2010-04-02T15:33:00.000-04:00

TravelinPilgrim

Congratulations! Please email me your information and I will mail your book as soon as possible!

annewithane65ATyahoo.com

Thank you all so much for entering my drawing...I wish I had a book for each one of you. Thank you also for your continued support of my blog...I really do appreciate your visits and sweet comments.

Have a Blessed Easter!

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ Happy April First ♥~

2010-04-01T09:20:00.000-04:00

Good morning, blogging friends! What a lovely spring morning it is here in Southwestern Pa. I thought I'd show you a few things around my house.

I bought these flowers at Wal-mart yesterday. The picture just doesn't do them justice. I bought my container at TJ Maxx. I also bought the lighted branches at a local country shop called Roadman's Country Living.

I also found these adorable carrots at Wal-mart. I added them to my milk-glass flower pot filled with edible Easter grass.

Wouldn't these make great place cards? They are filled with Jelly Beans...so cute!

Thanks for stopping by! Tomorrow is my drawing for the Gooseberry Patch book. If you haven't entered yet, you still have some time. I will hold the drawing at 1:15 p.m. Eastern Time.

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

~♥ Thank you...♥~

2010-03-26T07:45:00.000-04:00

to Gooseberry Patch for spotlighting my blog and to my blogging friends who have been so faithful in visiting me. As a token of my appreciation, I'm having a giveaway! Please leave a comment and you'll be entered into a drawing to receive the book, "Recipes for Kindness." The giveaway will be held on Friday, April 2nd, 2010.

http://www.gooseberrypatch.typepad.com/blog/

♥ Kim

~♥ My Canisters ♥~

2010-03-19T10:43:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday, blogging friends! I'm so glad that many of you enjoyed the pictures I posted from Better Homes and Gardens...I can't stop looking at them myself. I really do appreciate all of your visits and comments.

I thought I'd share something in my kitchen that I l♥ve...my canisters. They were an inexpensive find at Wal-mart and I like the fact that they are plain. I love to jazz them up with my Chalk-ink Markers!

Sorry that the pictures are a little off...I took allergy medicine and I'm feeling slightly loopy...atleast my nose isn't running!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. We're off to the Motocross races on Sunday in Shippensburg, PA, where my daughter's boyfriend will be racing. Please say a prayer for his safety...last season he had a bad broken arm. Take care, my dear blogging friends.

♥ Kim

Graphics by: http://www.susanbranch.com/

Click Here to visit the Chalk-Ink Website!

~♥Country Comfort♥~

2010-03-16T15:09:00.000-04:00

While browsing the web for inspirational pictures I came across these on the Better Homes and Gardens website...Enjoy!

Love, Love, Love this porch.

Red chairs make me smile :)

Very clever!

Love the blue and white dishes!

Love this very organized space.

More red...

Great idea for a linen closet.

More prettiness...

Lovely ferns and a great red couch.

Great red stools.

Darling.

This sink is amazing!

So simple yet so pretty.

More loveliness.

What a great kitchen!

So homey.

I hope you enjoyed these pictures...sorry I didn't have any of my own to post. Hopefully I'll have something to share with you soon.

Thanks for stopping by, dear friends!

♥ Kim

p.s. I'll be posting a recipe very soon on my baking blog for Honey Bun Cake!

Pictures by Better Homes & Gardens http://www.bhg.com/

~♥ My Heart Sings ♥~

2010-03-11T15:08:00.000-05:00

Please turn off the music on my playlist if you'd like to watch this.
Be Blessed!

♥ Kim

~♥ Signs of Spring ♥~

2010-03-05T10:26:00.000-05:00

Even though there is still snow on the ground at my home, blogging friends, Spring has sprung a few places around the house! Here is my hutch in the kitchen.

I love these little pitchers...they were a thrift store find.

They're actually measuring cups.

A pewter pitcher filled with spring flowers.

The window above my sink...sorry you can't see it that well...there was glare from the sun (can you see all of the snow in the background?).

More flowers...

A sweet little bird nest always makes me smile!

Thank you for stopping by to visit, sweet blogging friends...I always enjoy your company!

Have a wonderful weekend.

♥ Kim

~♥ My Wish ♥~

2010-03-04T08:11:00.000-05:00

“This is my wish for you: Comfort on difficult days, smiles when sadness intrudes, rainbows to follow the clouds, laughter to kiss your lips, sunsets to warm your heart, hugs when spirits sag, beauty for your eyes to see, friendships to brighten your being, faith so that you can believe, confidence for when you doubt, ...courage to know yourself, patience to accept the truth, Love to complete your life.”

Author Unknown

♥ Kim

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ If I Were A Little Girl... ♥~

2010-03-03T15:56:00.000-05:00

I'd love to have this pink retro kitchen from Pottery Barn Kids! Isn't it adorable?

Click Here to view this at Pottery Barn Kids.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A special thank you to those of you who have been visiting my new baking blog...

you're all so sweet!

Graphic by http://www.susanbranch.com/

~♥ New Recipe Posted ♥~

2010-03-02T10:32:00.000-05:00

On my baking blog for Apple Pie Pockets

Graphic by http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ It's Love ♥~

2010-03-01T09:05:00.000-05:00

I'm thinking this would make a dandy purse for Spring! It's called Alice in Sittin In a Tree...from Vera Bradley. I adore Vera Bradley purses...it's the only thing I actually splurge on.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I'm working on a new post for my baking blog...I'm making Apple Pie Pockets from this book.

Have a wonderul first day of March...spring is just around the corner!

L♥ve, Kim

~♥ New Post ♥~

2010-02-25T14:50:00.000-05:00

Head on over to my baking blog...

there's another new post!

Graphic by: http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~♥ Thank You ♥~

2010-02-23T15:52:00.000-05:00

Thank you very much for your kind and encouraging words regarding my new blog...I just posted my first recipe!

Click on the link in my sidebar if you want to visit.

L♥ve, Kim

~♥ My New Blog ♥~

2010-02-19T14:40:00.000-05:00

Hi blogging friends...just wanted to let you know that I'm starting a new blog called "Baking at Home Is Where The Heart Is". Click Here to visit my new blog! I'm just getting started with it, but I hope to post recipes, favorite cookbooks, products I like, etc. on this blog. I hope you'll stop over for a visit!

♥ Kim

http://www.glitter-graphics.com/

~♥ What Do You Love To Do? ♥~

2010-02-18T16:18:00.000-05:00

I l♥ve to bake...so I thought it would be appropriate to write this on my chalkboard.

I love YuMmY peach cobbler!

Heart-shaped pies from the Farm Chicks

Chewy Blond Brownies

Mini Cinnamon Rolls from left-over pie crust...does anyone know what these really are called?

Banana Nut Bread with Orange Glaze....

Please tell me, what do you L♥VE to do?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Thanks again for visiting blogging friends!

♥ Kim

~♥♥♥♥♥~

2010-02-15T13:07:00.000-05:00

Hello dear blogging friends...So sorry I am a little behind in my Valentine's Day post...I hope you all had a wonderful day filled with Love and Laughter!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

My chalkboard decorated for Valentine's Day...I know I've said it in previous posts, but I absolutely L♥VE my ChalkInk Markers.

I baked two giant cookies for my family to enjoy!

"Your family and your love must be cultivated like a garden. Time, effort, and imagination must be summoned constantly to keep any relationship flourishing and growing." Jim Rohn

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Thank you so much for stopping by for a visit

♥ Kim

p.s. Take a minute to check out the Chalkink Markers website. They have a great selection of markers and cute chalkboards. Click Here to visit their website.

~♥ Things That Make Me Smile ♥~

2010-02-06T09:13:00.000-05:00

Hello blogging friends...I thought I'd take the time to share some of the things that make me smile. I L♥VE cookbooks...always have and always will. I've posted several pictures of my newest cookbooks...the illustrations are darling and the recipes seem easy enough to do!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The first three cookbooks are written by Roxie Kelley and Friends; Illustrations by Shelly Reeves Smith. I just can't stop looking at these books...their style is similar to Susan Branch books (which I adore, too). I purchased my books at Amazon.com.

Aren't these illustrations darling?

I was lucky enough to find this Susan Branch cookbook at TJ Maxx. It was the only one...it was hidden behind a bunch of other books...waiting just for little ol' me.

Aren't these napkins as cute as a button? I'm in love with the color red and just knew that I had to bring them home as well.

And finally, this Hallmark ornament from 2009 really makes me smile...I just love the detail...wish I had a better camera to show you...there's even writing on the back of the recipe card!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Question and Answer Time:

Susan wanted to know where my dear Husband keeps things from his pockets...well, Susan, I have a small holder by his side of the bed. We also designated one drawer in his dresser for things that he can't fit on the night stand so at least it's out of sight.

Lisa wanted to know about my bedding...let's see if I can remember: The yellow coverlet came from TJ Maxx. The red toile pillow and comforter at the end of the bed was something I got at Kmart a LONG time ago. It's actually a twin set. It was Martha Stewart and was dirt cheap on clearance. Now the yellow quilt and shams I ordered on line, but for the life of me I cannot remember where. I actually had seen an insert in the Sunday paper several years ago and that's how I found out about the place...wish I could remember the name of it. The small green pillow was from Dollar General several years ago as well...I just added the doilie. The red bedskirt is from Kmart's Country Living Collection...the white bedskirt was given to me by a friend.

Well, dear blogging friends...it's time for me to go for now...thank you for stopping by for a visit...I really appreciate it.

♥ Kim

~♥ Just To Let You Know...♥~

2010-02-05T14:35:00.000-05:00

I'm working on a new post...see you soon!

♥ Kim

Graphic by Gooseberry Patch

~♥A Bedroom Tour♥~

2010-01-19T09:51:00.000-05:00

Hello dear friends! Thank you all for your sweet comments on my new hutch and farmhouse table...my family and I have been enjoying it!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Several of you had questions about the Chalkink Markers. I purchased mine from Amazon, but if you go directly to the Chalkink website, they have a much better selection. Click Here to be taken to their website! Once you try Chalkink Markers you'll not use regular chalk. I love the fact that the colors are so vibrant and that they don't smear when dry!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Now, on with the tour! Besides my kitchen, my bedroom is also one of my favorite rooms. It's a very bright area even on a cloudy day because of all of the windows.

This is my sitting area. It's a nice place for reading or watching TV.

This dresser had a huge mirror on it, but I talked my DH into removing it. It makes a great stand for the TV.

This is an antique vanity that was given to me by a dear family friend. My DH refinished it.

Once again, thank you for your visits. And speaking of visiting, my new friend, Dan, that I met on the Country Sampler Forum just started a blog...why not stop over and welcome him to the wonderful world of blogging? His home is going to be featured in the Country Sampler 2010 Home Tour Edition!

Click Here to Visit Yesterday Once More

~♥I've Had You In Suspense Long Enough♥~

2010-01-08T14:13:00.000-05:00

Here's what Santa brought me...a new farmhouse cupboard and...

a new farmhouse table.

This is our 20th anniversary gift, too. My dear Hubby and I will be celebrating our anniversary on the 13th of January. When we were first married we bought a table and chairs so we thought it would would be nice to do this for our Christmas/20th Anniversary gift. We gave our old table and hutch to a young couple who recently got engaged...they just bought a house, too, and needed everything. They were so grateful and we were happy to help them out.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I thought I'd show you a few other things in the kitchen, too.

Here's my chalkboard that I love to decorate! The Chalkink Markers are so fun to use!

I love sprinkles and things to decorate cookies and cupcakes...here's my supply in the drawers of my new cupboard.

I moved this dresser (removed the mirror) to the kitchen to provide more storage (one can never have enough storage!). The rocking chair belongs to my dear daughter. It was given to her by her grandparents when she was a year old...she's now 16 1/2.

The top of the dresser: The scale was a garage sale find ($15), the canisters look old, but they are actually new, the castiron cook stove was given to me by my dear Gram.

Thank for visiting me today...I really do appreciate all of your sweet comments and visits!

♥ Kim

~♥I Must Have Been A Good Girl♥~

2010-01-05T15:51:00.000-05:00

Can't wait to show you what Santa brought me!

Graphic by Susan Branch

♥ Kim

~♥Out With The Old...In With The New♥~

2009-12-31T15:38:00.000-05:00

Glitter Graphics

A New Year's Prayer

by Kay Hoffman

Another year is dawning

With the chance to start anew.

May I be kinder, wiser, Lord,

In all I say and do.

Not so caught up in selfish gain

That I would fail to see

The things in life that mean the most

Cost not a fancy fee.

The warm, kind word that I can give,

The outstretched hand to help,

The prayers I pray for those in need--

More precious these than wealth.

I know not what may lie ahead

Of laughter or of tears;

I only need to know each day

That You are walking near.

I'm thankful for this brand new year

As now I humbly pray,

My hand secure in Yours, dear Lord,

Each step along the way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

All the best to you and yours
in 2010!

♥ Kim

~♥Friendship Tea♥~

2009-12-27T15:54:00.000-05:00

I made this Friendship Tea mix to give as gifts. It was pretty inexpensive. I put the mix into pint jars, used paper doilies to cover the lids, put a rubber band to hold it in place, and used ribbon to cover the rubber band. I made tags that I printed on cardstock.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Here's the recipe:

2 cups instant dry tea mix
2 cups orange tang
4 cups sugar
1 cup lemonade mix
2 tsps cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 cup cinnamon heart candies

Mix together in a large bowl and ladle into glass jars.

For the tags: Stir 2 heaping teaspoons into a mug of steaming hot water.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Thanks for stopping by! I always appreciate your visits and your sweet comments :)

♥ Kim

~♥Christmas Cookies♥~

2009-12-20T19:02:00.000-05:00

We got a lot of this...

so I did some of this!

If you l♥ve chocolate and peppermint, this cookie gives you the best of both! These cookies are called "Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Yummies"...I found the recipe in the December 2008 issue of Country Home magazine (I really miss that magazine). They were created by Amy Struck, of Michigammo, MI.

~♥~♥~♥~

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp salt

1 egg

2 1-oz squares unsweetened chocolate, melted & cooled

(I used choco bake instead - saves on the melting and cooling)

1 cup all-purpose flour

granulated sugar

1/4 cup butter, softened

2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

1/2 tsp. peppermint extract

2-3 T milk

red food coloring

crushed peppermint candies

1 cup semisweet chocolate pieces

2 tsp. shortening

In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer on medium to high speed, beat ½ cup butter for 30 seconds. Add 1 cup granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl. Beat in egg and melted unsweetened chocolate. Beat in flour until combined.

Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Grease the bottom of a glass and coat with granulated sugar; flatten cookies with sugar-coated glass. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8 minutes or until set. Cool on cookie sheets for 1 minute; transfer to wire racks. Cool completely.

In a medium mixing bowl, with an electric mixer on medium to high speed, beat ¼ cup butter for 30 seconds. Beat in powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and enough milk to make a spreading consistency. If desired, tint pink with food coloring. Spread frosting over each cookie leaving a ¼ inch border around the edge. Sprinkle with candies, if desired.

In a small saucepan heat and stir semisweet pieces and shortening over low heat until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly. Drizzle chocolate over tops of cookies. Makes 3 dozen cookies.

Thanks for stopping by!

♥ Kim

~My New Apron~

2009-12-14T17:06:00.000-05:00

Found this sweet apron at Marshall's a couple of weeks ago...it's the same apron that Aunt Ruthie from Sugarpie Farmhouse has. I was so fortunate to get it for $6.99!

♥ Kim

~I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas~

2009-11-27T15:56:00.000-05:00

I hope all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving...there really is so much to be thankful for!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

There is nothing prettier than freshly fallen snow...thought you'd enjoy seeing some pictures from last year!

♥ Kim

~Happy Thanksgiving~

2009-11-25T13:46:00.000-05:00

http://www.glitter-graphics.com/

♥ Kim

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Dear blogging friends...I am so sorry for my lack of posts...I've had some issues with my camera card and haven't replaced it yet...I hope to have something to show you soon!

http://www.gooseberrypatch.com/

~Chalkboard Love~

2009-10-15T11:13:00.000-04:00

My chalkboard (the frame was a yardsale find...50 cents) is one of my favorite things in my kitchen!

And, the Chalk Ink markers recommended by Aunt Ruthie of Sugarpie Farmhouse are my favorite things to use on it...no more regular chalk for me!

~Fall Is Here~

2009-10-07T14:04:00.000-04:00

Hi blogging friends, I've done a little bit of fall decorating around my home that I wanted to share.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Here is my dining room table.

Deacon's bench with a real goose decoy.

The fireplace mantle.

The top of my computer hutch.

Old dresser in the living room.

Old school chalkboard...when I got it, it was painted this vibrant yellow on the one side. I was going to paint over it, but decided it looked fine to me!

Pumpkin on a scale along with some of my Gooseberry Patch cookbooks.

Thank you so much for stopping by! I really enjoy your visits and appreciate all of your comments.

♥ Kim

~There's No Place I'd Rather Be~

2009-09-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

H ♥ M E

Don't you just l♥ve this old chalkboard?

♥ Kim

~* My New Treasures *~

2009-09-10T16:38:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends! I have some goodies to share with you...while visiting a local resale shop to make a donation of things my family no longer needed I found this antique wash stand. At first I wasn't going to get it...what would my dear hubby say...did we really have the room for it...I honestly didn't know what to do so I decided to give my name and number to the sweet lady there. Low and behold I received a call and was offered it at a lower price! Of course, I couldn't pass it up!

I haven't decided exactly what I'm going to do with the finish...should I paint over it...should I strip the paint off? I'm still contemplating what to do.

I love the curved front on it! I know that I am definitely changing the hardware.
I also found this nice picture frame that I'm going to make into a chalkboard for my porch.

And last, but not least, I got this old window from my church. They were replacing all of the windows with new ones. When an announcement was made asking if anyone would want one, I knew I wanted one for sure! I've gone to this church since I was a year old and I wanted a part of history. I'm painting the frame because it's in bad shape, then I'll hang it in the dining room. Thank you so much for stopping by!

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Thank you all for your sweet birthday wishes! You all are so kind. On another note, Lil Mama has still not returned and it has been three weeks...I'm still holding out hope that she'll return one day.

♥ Kim

~* I Am Still Here *~

2009-08-28T15:44:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd drop in and say "Hello" to let all of you know that I haven't flown the coop! This chick just hasn't had much to post about. I'm hoping that come September, I'll have some fall decorating to share.

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During my absence I celebrated my 43rd birthday...wait...I'm not 43....I'm 44...what am I talking about...LOL....also discovered my first gray hair!

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Thank you all for the comments you continue to leave on my blog...I really appreciate each and every one of them. On a sad note, Lil Mama, one of our sweet kittens that I wrote about on my previous post has disappeared...I am just heartsick...it's been almost two weeks and we haven't seen her at all. I'm praying that she'll come home safe and sound!

♥ Kim

2009-07-25T08:48:00.000-04:00

Hello blogging friends! Thank you all so much for the sweet comments that were left on my last post. I hope my formula works for those of you who are giving it a try. Honestly, this is the best year I've had for hanging baskets. I thought I'd show you a picture of the other hanging baskets. I am still amazed at how much they've grown.

I also thought I'd share the view we have from our porch...this is it on a nice day. I love this view so much and really enjoy how it changes through the seasons.

As you can see, the view isn't that good on a rainy day.

This is Lil Mama...one of the kittens. She is one of the sweetest little gals ever! They all spend a lot of time enjoying the comfy furniture on the porch.This is Bubba, the only boy in the bunch. He didn't appreciate having his picture taken...lol.

Thank you so much for stopping by...I hope you all are enjoying your summer!

Please stop by again...I enjoy the company.

♥ Kim

~* Hanging Baskets *~

2009-07-11T10:46:00.001-04:00

I wanted to share pictures of my hanging baskets. The picture below was taken on May 19th, 2009. I remember when I bought them (I have three others) and thought they looked pretty good...

Here's the same hanging basket on July 11th! I'm amazed at how big it's gotten. I swear (well, not really...LOL) by Miracle Grow Bloom Booster. I water the baskets every day, sometimes twice if it's really hot out. I also try to cut the dead blooms off every day, too.
Thanks for stopping by to take a look...enjoy the rest of your weekend.
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Thanks to all of you who visited and commented on my last post about my new bunting for the porch...I really appreciate it!

~* My Home For The 4th *~

2009-07-09T08:27:00.001-04:00

I hope that everyone had a safe and Happy 4th of July! Ours was very low-key...we had a small cookout and watched fireworks from our home. I wish I would have been able to take pictures of all of the fireworks we were able to see...it was really neat to see so many on the skyline!

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I thought I'd show you a few pictures of my home...I had been wanting to get bunting for the railing of our porch, but had a hard time finding any. I was fortunate that I finally came across some at a cute little shop called, "Endless Possibilities" in Ligonier, Pa.

Well, that's all for now...thanks for stopping by. I always enjoy the company!

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Thank you for your sweet comments and birthday wishes for my dd, Emily. I still can't believe that she's sixteen! She loves her new car. I've taken her out driving every day, and she's been doing pretty good. We're fortunate to live in a rural area so there are a lot of back roads to travel.

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Q and A Time:

There were some questions asked about my May 19th post, ~* My Oh My, How Time Flies*~ and I wanted to take the opportunity to answer them.

Did I make the curtains in my kitchen? I wish I could say that I did, but no, I did not. I found them at Kmart.
Where did I get my candle? It was purchased at Wal-mart, but I'm not so sure they carry them any longer. I know they don't at the one I shop at since it's been remodeled.
Getting the kittens spayed and neutered - we did have them all spayed and neutered, including the Mama. As much as I love cats, I certainly don't want a cat farm...LOL.

♥ Kim

~♥Home Is Where The Heart Is♥~

~♥ Twitter ♥~

~♥ It's A New Year ♥~

~♥ The Outside ♥~

~♥ It's Time... ♥~

~♥ Apple-Pecan Crisp ♥~

~♥ My How The Weather Changes ♥~

~♥ It's Snowing ♥~

~♥ Words To Live By ♥~

~♥ Forgiveness ♥~

~♥ When You Thought I Wasn't Looking ♥~

~♥ Gooseberry Patch Freebies ♥~

~♥ Words To Live By ♥~

~♥ It's Been Awhile...♥~

~♥ Happy Saturday ♥~

~♥ This and That ♥~

~♥ My Little Girl Is Growing Up ♥~

~♥ Green Is My Favorite Color ♥~

~♥ Hallelujah by Heather Williams ♥~

~♥ Chalkboard & Sheets ♥~

~♥ Spring Decorating ♥~

~♥You Are More by Tenth Avenue North♥~

~*The Wait Is Over*~

~♥Gooseberry Patch Cookbook Review and Giveaway♥~

~♥JJ Heller - What Love Really Means (Official Music Video)♥~

~♥ Hello Friends ♥~

It's A New Year...

~♥ Merry CHRISTmas ♥~

~♥ Come On In ♥~

~♥ Free Printable Gift Tags ♥~

~♥ Gifts and Gobs ♥~

~♥ Christmas Is In The Air ♥~

~♥ Things That Make Me Smile ♥~

~♥ It's Pumpkin Carving Time ♥~

~* 25 Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipes *~

~♥A Little Fall Decorating ♥~

Laurie Lewis - Who Will Watch the Home Place?

~♥ They Grow Up So Fast ♥~

~♥ Yard Sale Goodies ♥~

Miranda Lambert - The House That Built Me

~♥ Cricut Project ♥~

~♥ There's Nothing Better ♥~

~♥ I'm So Excited ♥~

~♥ Have A Happy 4th ♥~

~♥ My Porch ♥~

~♥ Church Bazaar Finds ♥~

~♥Laundry Room Update ♥~

~♥ My Screen Door ♥~

~♥ My Daughter's Prom ♥~

~♥ I'm So Proud ♥ ~

~♥ For My Mom ♥~

~♥ Gooseberry Patch Wallpaper ♥~

~♥ Powder Room Pictures ♥~

~♥ I Love Red ♥~

~♥ And The Winner Is... ♥~

~♥ Happy April First ♥~

~♥ Thank you...♥~

~♥ My Canisters ♥~

~♥Country Comfort♥~

~♥ My Heart Sings ♥~

~♥ Signs of Spring ♥~

~♥ My Wish ♥~

~♥ If I Were A Little Girl... ♥~

~♥ New Recipe Posted ♥~

~♥ It's Love ♥~

~♥ New Post ♥~

~♥ Thank You ♥~

~♥ My New Blog ♥~

~♥ What Do You Love To Do? ♥~

~♥♥♥♥♥~

~♥ Things That Make Me Smile ♥~

~♥ Just To Let You Know...♥~

~♥A Bedroom Tour♥~

~♥I've Had You In Suspense Long Enough♥~

~♥I Must Have Been A Good Girl♥~

~♥Out With The Old...In With The New♥~

~♥Friendship Tea♥~

~♥Christmas Cookies♥~

~*My New Apron*~

~*I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas*~

~The Wait Is Over~

~My New Apron~

~I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas~

~Happy Thanksgiving~

~Chalkboard Love~

~Fall Is Here~

~There's No Place I'd Rather Be~