When in downtown Brentwood, follow that aromatherapy whiff of Baked Apple Pie and Vanilla Pound Cake candles to Country Thyme Gifts. Beyond the quaint storefront lies the warm and homey feeling of a country store that reminds you of lovely childhood memories gone by.

Owner Pamela Munkelt has set up cupboards lined with candles, soap and her own wooden hand-painted signs. She carries Swan Creek candles, which are soy-based. Unlike paraffin candles, soy-based candles emit no soot, carcinogens, contain no lead, are bio-degradable and non-toxic. Soy candles also burn evenly and up to 30 percent longer than paraffin.

Tense muscles involuntarily relax with the most natural fragrances of Lemon Ice Box Cookies, Apple Cider, Lavender, Peaches and Cream, or Pumpkin Spice - all set nicely on glass jars with tin lids.

Homemade soap bars with moisturizing goat's milk add to the olfactory meltdown as you picture yourself lathering up with Milk and Honey, Lavender Oatmeal and Mint Eucalyptus.

"I have little girls, their moms, and their grandmas come in, all enticed by the smell of the candles and soaps," said Munkelt. "They will surely make good gifts."

But the highlight of Country Thyme are the hand-painted signs with positive and festive themes that Munkelt thoughtfully crafts herself.

"I like painting something to give somebody, knowing it will make them happy," Munkelt said. "I started with memorial stepping stones for dogs. I also painted this "freedom" sign for a lady who met someone abroad who pined to live here because we are free.

"The rustic clocks and knick-knacks are popular, too. I also support local jewelry artisans. We hold shopping parties with tea and biscuits. We also custom-wrap our gifts and deliver for big orders."

Country Thyme Gifts is located at 219 Oak St. in Brentwood. The phone number is 516-8895.