Jan 302013
 

The-Alias-blog-tour2

Aliasjpg

Synopsis:

After a long and difficult divorce, Jacey is sure the worst is over. But when the FBI reveals some disturbing information about her ex-husband, she is forced into hiding to protect herself and her son. In the process, she risks losing her identity, her future, and her heart. Thrilling and suspenseful, this novel is an edge-of-your-seat read.

Meet the Author:

Mandi Tucker Slack grew up in Orangeville, UT, where her father worked as a coal miner for eighteen years. In 1987 the coal mines shut down for a time and her father joined the U.S. Army. They were stationed in Hanau, Germany, and she had the opportunity to explore Europe. Mandi’s family returned to Utah in 1992, and they settled in Orangeville once again, where she attended and completed High School. She then attended the College of Eastern Utah, where she studied Geology. Eventually Mandi changed her major and moved on to Utah State University while she completed a degree in Special Education. She then married her best friend, Charles Slack. They have three children, with one on the way, 6 chickens, and a lizard (sometimes several lizards).Their family loves to spend time together. They enjoy 4-wheeling, camping, and especially rock hounding. Her house is littered with rocks and fossils. As a child Mandi spent many weekends with her parents and sister exploring abandoned mining towns and searching for relics among the brick ruins. Her adventures with her family are often the inspiration for her stories. Mandi is also the author of romantic/ suspense title, The Alias, available at a bookstore near you. To find out more on The Alias and author Mandi Tucker Slack, visit: mandituckerslack.com.

My Review:

I though this was a good book and it held my interest to the end.  Mandi Tucker Slack did a good job describing the characters.

Jacey left her husband because he was abusing her and tried to kill her.  She took her son Blaze and fled to a friends house.  She was trying to hide so that her ex-husband would not find her or take Blaze away from her.  After working her shift at the diner she finds two FBI agents waiting for her.  They want to know what she knows about her ex-husband John and his partner.  She was unaware of what he was involved with but she was afraid of him.  She didn’t want her friend Melissa and her daughter to get hurt so she knew she needed to move on.  Her friend had the perfect idea – Jacey would pretend to be Melissa and go and stay with her Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant in Utah.  So that is what they did.  It wasn’t what they wanted to do – but what they had to do to be safe.  They didn’t want to deceive anyone. Does John find them? or are they safe?  When does Jacey tell Melissa Aunt and Uncle the truth? You will need to read The Alias to find out.  I am sure you will enjoy the book as much as I did.

I received a Copy of this book from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for the review, and the review is honest and my responsibility.

 

Jan 302013
 
The Exception To The Rule
The Exception to the Rule
ISBN 0615739229 (ISBN13: 9780615739229)
Contemporary Romance
Date to be Published: 12/19/2012
Synopsis: 
 
When Katrina “Kat” Vallia, an idealistic if somewhat naive 20-something American pediatrician travels halfway across the globe to volunteer in a poor African village, she looks at it as a means of closure. Following a bitter breakup with her unfaithful boyfriend, she decides to throw herself into her work without any distractions from a man. That’s until she encounters Dr. Julian Kiron, a handsome, career driven pediatric oncologist. Even though she tries to fight it, Kat finds herself falling deeply for him; until she painfully realizes that they both want totally different things from life. Not willing to compromise for the other, they sadly say goodbye, cutting all ties. Five years later, Kat’s happy world is turned upside down when she is given devastating news. She must now confront her past and the secret she’s harbored for years. But will saving the one she loves most also rekindle the love she let slip away?
 
 
EXCERPT:
 
 
We talked for some time and I could tell he was getting tired, his skin looked paler than usual and the light color of his eyes just enhanced the dark circles that were beginning to form underneath.
“Are you tired?” I asked.
“A little,” he finally admitted.
“But I thought you didn’t get tired,” I teased as I got up to grab the blanket from the other couch, turning off the overhead light. I looked out the window to see a light snow falling. I sat back down on the couch covering us both with the blanket as we watched TV with just the glow of the fireplace and Christmas tree lights. He had his arms wrapped tightly around me as I rested my head on his chest. 
“Thank you,” I whispered.
“For what?” he asked.
“For being here.”
 I smiled when he pulled me closer and gently kissed my head. It didn’t take long before I heard his breathing begin to change and as I looked up I saw he was sound asleep. I put my head back down on his chest, kissing it softly. Just knowing he was here beside me, listening to his heartbeat and feeling him breathe, put my mind at such ease that it wasn’t long before I was fast asleep too.
 
 

Beth Rinyu

 
Author Bio
Ever since I can remember, I have always enjoyed Creative Writing. There was always something about being able to travel to a different place or become a different person with just the stroke of a pen – or in today’s world a touch of the keyboard. I have been writing poetry for years and finally got the inspiration to write my very first novel about a year and a half ago. Once I started the idea’s kept flowing, my fingers kept typing – and here it is! It’s a beautiful love story that focuses on so many different relationships: the love of a man and a woman, a parent and a child, friendships and those that are not bound to us by blood but by love. So, I’m hoping all of you get as much enjoyment reading this as I did writing it! Oh and here’s a little bit about bit me – my life is not as interesting as the story or the characters in it, but then again whose life is? I was born and have lived in New Jersey my whole life. I’m a mom of twin teenage boys, a teenage step-son, a crazy Border Collie and a cat with an identity crisis! I guess you can say writing is my form of Calgon! I am married to a wonderful guy – but we’ll keep that between us, I don’t want him getting a big head! Thanks for taking the time to learn about my book and me! If you decide to read it (and I hope you do!) please be sure to go on and review it for me – yes, even if you don’t like it!
Jan 292013
 

Udderly

This year I decided that I would start using better products for myself, things that are made out of pure & natural ingredients and are healthy for my skin and for the environment.   So I have been doing some reading and found out that goat milk is very good for your skin if you have dry skin, eczema or skin allergies.  I found Udderly Fresh online and they have a great line of products including goat milk soap, natural shampoo, natural lotion, natural laundry soap, natural lip balm, natural salt scrub natural insect repellent and natural dryer sachets.

The first thing I tried was some of their goat milk soap in the Ginger Citrus scent. Here is the what Udderly Fresh says about this soap and why I choose this soap.

We consider our Ginger Citrus Goat Milk Soap as our detox bar. Ginger is a natural detox herb and is good as a circulatory stimulant. Ancient Indians considered Ginger to be a physical and spiritual cleanser. It also has an antibacterial effect. Ginger is well known for the ability to reduce inflammation, especially with arthritis, it helps in treating colds and cough, and promotes perspiration.  Many people have been known to use Ginger in the bath to help detoxify the body.
Orange Citrus detoxifies the body as well and boosts the lymphatic system thus also being helpful with colds and flu. Orange Citrus has a very uplifting aroma but is also considered to bring a sense of calm and peace. Orange is said to be a fabulous skin toner.

I love the soap – first it does smell great!  Also I know so many people who have gotten sick this year I figured if I could help beat it with soap then I better try.  I have noticed that my skin is softer and that the scent lingers after I am out of the shower.  Udderly Fresh carriers 10 different soaps each with a great description of what it does, so I am sure you can find one that is just right for you.

I also tried the Orange Lotion Bar which is one of Udderly Fresh’s most popular lotions.  It has a mild orange scent that isn’t too strong even for men.  I love the round container it comes in and is easy to carry in my purse.  I like the nice fresh smell too.  They also carry 7 other lotions even one with no scent.

The last thing I have tried was the What On Earth Goat Soap Shampoo. Now I have never used a bar shampoo before so I was not sure what to expect – but I love how my hair felt after using it.  It is nice knowing that I am not using harsh chemicals on my hair.  I love the smell too – the one I used has Patchouli, Clove & Lime in it.  They also have a variety of scents in the shampoo too.

Look at the cute packaging that Udderly Fresh comes in.  The goat is so cute, and their Mission Statement says they care: We want to make a difference in peoples lives by creating and sharing natural skin care products that help everyone; especially people with dry skin or sensitive skin. I like that I found something natural and pure to use and hope this helps you take better of your skin too.

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Udderly Fresh has offered one of my readers a chance to win some of the soap, lotion and shampoo.  One winner will be able to pick the scent that they love.  You must be 13+ US, follow Udderly Fresh on Facebook, and also follow Kaisy Daisy’s Corner in at least one way. You can get extra entries for following Kaisy Daisy’s Corner in more than one way, and leaving a comment on what your favorite product and scent would be. Giveaway ends Feb 12, 2013/

Disclaimer: Kay Swederski reviewed this products. I did not receive any money for my review, just a sample product. All opinions are mine and they may differ from yours.

Kaisy1

Jan 292013
 

nav_logo

Nothing better to get up in the morning and drink a nice fresh ground cup of coffee, and better yet when it is a weekend and you can enjoy watching the sun come up on the back porch. I found some coffee this weekend that I really enjoyed.  It is from Kicking Horse Coffee, it is called KICK ASS [ DAR K ]SWEET • SMOKY • AUDACIOUS This cup of attitude mixes both Indonesian and Central American roasts to create a dark, flavourful creation guaranteed to kick some sense into you.  It is a strong flavorful blend.  Kicking Horse makes 19 different blends so I am sure there is one just right for you.

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Kicking Horse started in 1996 in Elana Rosenfeld and Leo Johnson started roasting coffee in their garage.  They are no longer roasting coffee in the garage but still located in Invermere. Kicking Horse Coffee is now Canada’s #1 organic Fair Trade coffee. Kicking Horse Coffee offers a wide variety of different blends of organic Fair Trade coffee, organic Fair Trade Indian Chai and loads of other great items. Try ‘em all! They’re delicious!

Coffee is the largest cash crop in the world, and also the second largest traded commodity. Kicking Horse Coffee participates in Fair Trade by paying farmers fair price regardless of the world market.  Kicking Horse Coffee only roast certified organic coffee.  There coffee is shade grown and they use the best coffees grown in the world.

Where can you purchase your own Kicking Horse Coffee? Kicking Horse Coffee is available at retailers throughout Canada and US, on our Online Store as well as on Amazon.com.

Kicking Horse has also agreed to give on of my readers Kick Ass coffee (bean only), KHC gift bag and brochure to try.  I am sure my lucky winner will enjoy the coffee as much as I do.  You must be 13+ US or Canada to enter.  You must like Kicking Horse on Facebook or Twitter.   Extra entries for signing up for their news letter.  Extra entries for each way you following Kaisy Daisy’s Corner.  Contest ends Feb 13, 2013.

 

Disclaimer: Kay Swederski reviewed this products. I did not receive any money for my review, just a sample product. All opinions are mine and they may differ from yours.

Kaisy1

Jan 292013
 

I am not sure if you ever looked for a new curling or flat iron, but there are a lot of different choices. I found a great site Flat Iron Experts Online Beautyshop that gives information about all different Curling Irons, Flat Irons and Styling Tools .  Once you are on the site you can look at a number of different options and make a good choice in what styling tool works best for your hair and your life style.

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I recieved the Babyliss Pro Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron (1″). What the #1 Best Curling Iron is lacking, the Babyliss Pro Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron has. This curling iron is equipped with the latest Tourmaline Ceramic Technology that has numerous benefits to your hair. Tourmaline/Ceramic Curling iron emits negative ions and far-infrared heat that brings a number of benefits:

  • Eliminates static electricty
  • Neutralizes odors
  • Preserves more moisture within the hair shaft
  • Causes less damage to the hair cuticle

If you want a curling iron that is up to date and wouldn’t mind paying a bit extra. This would be a great choice.

I love it, in the past I have just bought cheap curling irons from the store and I can really see the difference in my hair, it is soft and smooth when I get done using it. I also like that it has a lot of temperature settings on it, and it is easy to set.  You just turn it to the heat level that you want. It is easy to use and heats up fast and cools down when turned off fast.

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I was also sent some KQC Thermal Shine Spray (142g) is an ion enriched polishing complex formulated for superior heat protection and ultra gloss hair shine. Lightweight, non-greasy micro mist spray that eliminates frizz, softens and polishes hair without build up. Designed for all hair types. Use with flat iron, curling iron or hair dryers.

KQC Thermal Shine spray is great for all hair types.  Whether your hair is normal, oily or dry, you can prevent infrared heat damage resulting in split-ends, frizz, and so forth.  This is also a great way to help detangle your hair as the thermal shinespray allows for easy & smooth comb-throughs.
Directions: Spray on wet or dry hair.  Style with a hair dryer or iron for brilliant, ultra-gloss shine.  I have been using it along with my new curling iron and it really helps my hair not be frizzy and also no static ~ which at this time of the year had been happening all the time.

Flat Iron Experts have all kinds of hair care products, hair extensions, nail products and cosmetics.  This is your one stop beauty shop.  You can find all your needs in one spot and it is easy to order and have your purchases delivered right to your door.  I hope you enjoy Flat Iron Experts Online Beautyshop as much as I did.

Disclaimer: Kay Swederski reviewed this products. I did not receive any money for my review, just a sample product. All opinions are mine and they may differ from yours.

Kaisy1

 

Jan 292013
 

Enter to win Shower in Style – what a great way to improve your morning with a new shower head!!


Sponsored by Change your Bathroom.com, and hosted by S.O.S. Mom, Real Momma and The Bunny’s Reviews, one lucky person will win an 8″ LED lit shower head (as seen in picture above)! Prize is valued at $120. Pimping your shower, yes we are!


Change Your Bathroom is at the cutting edge of today’s popular home design trend. Their years of experience will guarantee a seamless finish. Whether budget style, or texture is at the front of your mind, they have the right look for you.
The team is composed of Josh, the tile installer/electrician. who has worked in remodeling for 14 years and is proud to be a 2nd generation home builder. His passion lies in turning his concepts into reality. He has created several products including but not limited to the inflowAIR dust containment system and our very own hidden drain system for curb-less showers. He also loves to create beautiful spaces and for the past seven years has made bathrooms his specialty. From custom projects including hidden TVs to more traditional projects, Josh enjoys a challenge.

Michelle, who is in charge of customer service and design. Her passion for design developed around her extensive travel through Europe. She sets new standards in the design industry. Michelle incorporates the strength of ancient architecture and beauty of modern concepts to create a whole new world of design options. Working with the home owner every step of the way, she works to bridge the gap between the contractor and the client. Michelle custom designs each bathroom as a work of art to be enjoyed forever.

And finally, Jesse the plumber/tile installer. Jesse is trained as a skilled tradesman and has been in the construction industry for over 10 years. As a 3rd generation plumber and 2nd generation remodeler, Jesse understands all aspects of the trade from demolition to completion; he has an eye for detail and strives for perfection. Jesse has been with the team for 5 years and continues to keep every project running smoothly. He enjoys working closely with the home owner to make each project simple and seamless.

Please visit Change Your Bathroom at this address http://www.changeyourbathroom.com to get acquainted with the work they do and offer.


This giveaway event will be running until February 9th inclusively and is open to US residents only. To enter, simply fill the form below to gain entries to win.
Special thank you to co-hosts Give Oh Giveaway, Simply Sherryl, Tabby’s Pantry and Tunica Mama.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Jan 292013
 

don't panic

Synopsis:

Samantha Branson is having severe anxiety attacks. Her heart beats unusually fast, her breath quickens and her hands sweat. Every detail screams in her head that she is the center of unwanted attention. Everyone can hear her thoughts, her heart and her breathing. The silence of the classroom is so loud that focus is impossible.

 

After an attack lands her in the wrong bathroom, Sam meets Eli who offers to provide help. Faced with the return of her possessive ex-boyfriend and the blossoming of a new romance, Sam must find the strength inside herself to face her anxieties head on.

Bio:

Lindsay Paige is a young adult romance author from North Carolina. Most of what Lindsay writes are her daydreams in lavish details. (Please excuse that fact when you read one of her future works about a girl who sleeps around.;)) When not writing, she is working to finish her first year of college.

 

Lindsay loves to read, listen to music, watch and play tennis, along with watching her favorite hockey team, the Pittsburgh Penguins. Lindsay is a big fan of Sidney Crosby (87) and buys Penguins merchandise whenever she can.

 

Lindsay loves to be around her family and best friends. One summer after viewing a video of Nicholas Sparks’ house, Lindsay’s mother made the comment that she should write a bestselling novel since she “reads so much”, that way they could have a beautiful house as well. Lindsay took her comment to heart. She began working on Sweetness. A year later, the novel was complete.

 

Many of the aspects of the characters in Sweetness were inspired by Lindsay’s own struggles, such as a recovering alcoholic father and the anxiety Emily suffers because of her past.

Excerpt:

Why is this happening to me? My throat constricts as my body heats up. Sweat forms and drips from my chin. No. No. NO! I have to get out of here. I can’t be in this classroom for another second. It’s too much. My hands are trembling, and my legs won’t stop bouncing up and down.

Up and down.

Over and over they bounce as fast as they can. I can’t stop sweating. I can’t keep my palms from being clammy. I can’t make my body stop shaking and I can not prevent my legs from bouncing up and down. Why does it feel like everyone is watching me when their backs are to me? Why does it feel like everyone can hear my thoughts? I dig my fingernails into my palm as a distraction. It works for a half second.

We are supposed to give a presentation today and I’m nervous to say the least. I despise standing up in front of a group and telling them something, but lately every emotion has been enhanced. What if it comes out rushed? That’s points off and I can’t make less than an A. What if I forget something or forget what I was going to say all together? That’ll earn me a zero. I work too hard in school to afford a zero. This AP class is major for me, but it has been so stressful to keep up with all the work and make A’s.

“Samantha, you’re next.”

No. Oh goodness. No. This can’t be happening. I can’t handle this. Everyone looks at me now. They are patiently waiting for me to stand and present to the class. The fight or flight response is flashing in huge neon red lights in my head. I have been trying to fight, but I just can’t do this. I make my decision.

Flight.

My Review:

I really liked Don’t Panic.  It was easy to read and I liked  Samantha and Eli.  Samantha was having problems at school.  She would start sweating and her legs wouldn’t keep still she felt like she was going to be sick.  She couldn’t sit through class – she needed to get out of there.  Samantha was sure what was happening her mother was getting mad at her for skipping out of classes.  Then one day when Samantha met Eli, he said he had the same type of things happen to him. They were panic attacks – he knew them all too well.  He learned with help from his therapist what his triggers were and how to control them.  He wanted to help Samantha, he talked to her Mom and explained what was happening.

Does Eli help Samantha overcome her fears? You will want to read Don’t Panic to find out.  I thought the story was interesting.  I never understood how panic could make someone so sick and afraid.  I am sure you will like it too.

I received a Copy of this book from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for the review, and the review is honest and my responsibility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jan 292013
 

Keurig-Button

Seeing Double! Keurig Vue V700 Event

Hosted by Mom To Bed by 8 and Donna’s Deals and More

Brew with a Vue. Keurig has done it again with an entirely new brewing system that gives you more of the tasty beverages you love, exactly the way you want them. Now, you can decide how strong you want your coffee to taste and how hot, no matter how big or small your cup is! From creamy hot chocolate to delicious iced teas and frothy cafe beverages, the Keurig Vue V700 delivers the size, strength, and consistency you love, with every single-serving.

Still deliciously simple. At just the touch of a button, Keurig’s revolutionary Custom Brew Technology adjusts water pressure, timing, and airflow to deliver the perfect cup of coffee or tea every time. You’ll love the Vue’s quiet operation and shortened steep time, as it whips up cafe-quality treats in a matter of minutes. Plus, there’s no grinding beans, measuring, or cleanup needed–just add water and enjoy.

Countertop coffee shop. With the Keurig Vue system, you get the single-serve brewer with interactive touchscreen display, 66 Vue packs and a water filtration kit. And, for your convenience, it comes with two 16-oz iced coffee tumblers to get you started right out of the box.

Well, if that isn’t the pot calling the Keurig fabulous!

  • Includes Keurig V700 Vue Brewer, 10 Variety Vue packs, 12 travel-sized Breakfast Vue packs, 12 Vue House Blend Vue packs, 16 Donut Shop Vue packs, 16 Celestial Iced Tea Vue packs, two 16-oz tumblers, and a water filter kit
  • Variety pack includes one each of Gloria Jean Hazelnut Coffee, Timothy’s Decaf, Tully’s French Roast, Celestial Seasoning Southern Sweet Tea, Green Mountain Breakfast Blend travel-sized, Celestial Seasoning Sleepytime, Barista Prima Italian Roast, Cafe Escape Milk Chocolate, GMC Nantucket Blend, and Donut Shop
  • Tumblers: plastic/acrylic construction
  • Colored touchscreen user interface
  • Eight brew sizes: 4 oz, 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz, and 18 oz
  • 74-oz water reservoir
  • Brew coffee from 187F to 197F
  • Strength selection for stronger flavor
  • Removable drip tray with adjustable plate
  • Vue packs are #5 recyclable plastic

v700

One winner will receive a Keurig Vue V700 + V-Cups!

Giveaway ends February 7th at 11:59pm, open to US & Canada, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!  Wouldn’t this be a great addition to your home? I hope you win!

Special thank you to our co-hosts: Penny Auctions Canada, Homeschooling Mom 4 Two, Simply Sherryl, The Dragyn’s Lair, Spend With Pennies, Sparkles and a Stove, Freebie Spot, The Frugal Batavian, Cherished Handmade Treasures, Just Davey and Me, My Four Littles and Funny Postpartum Lady!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. Kaisy Daisy’s Corner is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact Mom Powered Media with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

Jan 282013
 

stadler

I received a from Stadler Form USA a William Ultrasonic Humidifier.  I had an old humidifier that was run all the time and had to be moved from room to room.  I was always filling the water tank and many times it would be out of water before I noticed and just kept running.

There are so many great things about this William Ultrasonic Humidifier.  First it has a filter so I don’t need to use distilled water, I can fill it right out of the tap.  It also has a gauge on it that tells me what the humidity is at in the house.  It was so neat this weekend we kept it at 52 degrees the whole weekend, the humidifier would either go up or down depending on what the humidity was in the house.  It also has an auto shut off when the water runs out, so I don’t burn the motor out.  It is also pretty quiet, I hardly hear it run, just a trickle just once in awhile.  Here is some more information about the Humidifier.

William plays in the highest league of craftsmanship and beauty. a stylish ultrasonic humidifier – equipped with all that is possible in modern engineering. It covers large rooms up to 1,000 square feet.  He is extremely quiet and powerful, but still low in power consumption. Nothing can compare to this black beauty. ( I totally agree with that).

Further important features make William a powerful and ideal companion: an off timer, preheating (enhanced mist distribution), sleep mode (with dimmed lights) and turnable mist diffuser with fine mist selection. The patented Ionic Silver Cube TM works nicely with William, inhibiting the growth of mold bacteria.

Specifications

  • Rated power: 40 Watt (preheating: 125W)
  • 3 output levels Output max. 3.5 gallons per day
  • Tank capacity: 1.5 gallon
  • Dimensions: 9.1’’W x 12.2’’H x 6.3’’D
  • Night mode
  • Automatic shut-off
  • Integrated Hygrostat
  • Ultrasonic humidifiers are not to be used with water that has been through a water softener.  In that event use distilled water or try an evaporative humidifier such as Oskar or Tom.
  • Weight : 7.3 lbs
  • Room size: up to 860 sq ft

I think this is one of my favorite items I have received in a long time.  Stadler Form USA has lots of other great items on their website to purchase and I am sure they are as high quality William.  They carry Air Purifiers, Aroma Diffusers, Fans and Heaters.  Take a look around and see what you need for your house – I am sure you will find it at Stadler Form USA. Many household appliances are important and useful occupants of our homes – however often the ugly ducklings of the family. That’s why we came up with the idea to import attractive household products. Each of the items we import are unique products of Swiss design by the companyStadler Form®. Founded in 1998, Stadler Form focuses on making household appliances emotionally appealing. Inspire yourself and enjoy the selection we made for you!

Stadler Form USA has been nice enough to supply me with a second William Ultrasonic Humidifier to give away to one of my readers. You must have a US shipping address and be 18+.  You need to follow Kaisy Daisy’s Corner in at least one way, extra entries for each way you follow.  You must also leave a comment on what other product you like on Stadler Form USA site. Contest Ends Feb 11, 2012.

Winner ** Jessica Ensminger

 

Kaisy1