another favorite

Ya know how when you find something great, you want to share it?

Well, I've been itching to share one of my favorite recent finds with my reading friends, 'cause I just know you're going to love it!

I first became acquainted with Angie of Gathered and Sown when I received one of her lovely handmade bags from my friend for Christmas a few years ago.  Angie is incredibly talented and creative, so I've been tracking with her products through her Etsy shop, blog, and facebook ever since.

I was delighted several months back when I discovered she'd started making custom Bible covers, each with her signature ruffle.  I swooned!  I was further delighted when one of these Bible covers became mine a couple weeks ago!

Isn't it lovely?  I love having such a sweet and beautiful cover to protect that which I hold most precious.

Check out Angie's website and visit her Etsy shop.  You'll find loads of gift ideas and maybe even a little something for yourself!

[kitchen: these are a few of my favorite things]

They say the kitchen is the hub of the home---

the gathering place.

It's where we come together to work and serve and love;

where we lick beaters

and snitch tastes;

where we experiment with recipes,

rebound from flops,

and create a whole lot of memories.

It's where we prepare to feed both body and soul.

I love my kitchen.

More than that, I love the people who flow in and out of it.

Throughout the past 20 years of marriage, 

I've discovered some favorite tools and appliances

for making my time in the kitchen all the more enjoyable.

Admittedly, because of my love for cooking,

my husband is regularly seeking ways to bless and encourage me in this pursuit.

I fear he spoils me far too much.

So without further ado, here are my top 10 favorite kitchen items (in no particular order).  And please ~ leave a comment and share yours!

1). Immersion Blender

From smoothies to soups...this has gotta be my favorite kitchen gadget.  One could certainly do without an immersion blender---but I wouldn't want to.  :)

2). Silpat

While I'm a longtime cook, it took me a while to develop a love of baking.  This Silpat made me a believer.  

3). Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer

I got mine when Amazon featured them for a tremendous deal---keep your eyes open!

4). Ice Cream Bowl Attachment

This is my newest addition to my kitchen---my guys gave it to me for Mother's Day.  Our favorite creation so far?  Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream.  

5). Kitchen Shears

The uses are endless---from chicken to tortillas to basil...

6). Food Network Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Love me anything enamelware---and especially love the discoloration inside mine, indicating loads of use and lots of bellies filled.

7). Williams Sonoma Loaf Pans

Breads slide right out...joy!

8). Cookie/Muffin Scoops

Perfectly shaped cookies, uniform muffins

9). Italian Scalloped Baker

Beauty from oven to table

10). Chemex Coffee Maker

While it's not what we use for everyday use (as it takes a little time and patience), we pull it down off the shelf for the occasional treat.  It is, by far, THE BEST at-home coffee evah!

Stay cool, friends!