Scented Candle Winner
Gina Parker Thorofare, NJ
Question: Tinsel on the tree - is it tacky or terrific?
"Thumbs down to tinsel. It's horrible to clean up and I'm still in therapy after witnessing our cat expel some after she ate it off of our tree when I was a child."
Give Wine Gifts Winner
Beth Weatherford Maumelle, AR
Question: When you are served wine at a restaurant, do you sniff and taste it before you drink it?
"No, I just lap it up between stories."
Passion Project 2011 Winner
Shirley Enebrad Seattle, Washington
Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Western Washington
Seattle, WA
http://www.candlelighterswa.org/Cancer is the number ONE disease killer of children in our country (more than all of the other diseases combined). My little boy Cory, was diagnosed with leukemia at age three. He died right after his ninth birthday. One of the things he made me promise before he died, was for me to help other parents going through the same difficulties that we faced alone. I have been involved with Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Western WA since the 80's. This organization was started in 1977 by a group of parents. We are a 501c3 that provides direct support to families coping with pediatric cancer and all the issues it brings. Many families have been wiped out financially and had to relocate in order to receive treatment for their child.This meant leaving family, friends, jobs and other support. Most marriages do not survive this type of stress filled situation. Many moms are left to deal with the ill child, siblings and treatments while not being able to work due to the frequency of treatments. Many donors are happy to give to research and we are constantly in need of emergency funds to help the families get by. In the recent economy, our emergency funds requests have quadrupled. The memory of Cory inspires me to continue helping the families. We are the "candlelighters"- we light the way for those families following behind us on the most difficult and pain filled path a family can be forced to travel.
Homemade Jam Trio and Gourmet Toffee Winner
Teri Newman Highland, IL
The biggest treat I look forward to is seeing my family all together and visiting with everyone as I live halfway across the country from my family's home. Nothing is better than seeing my beloved nieces and nephews, siblings and parents. I won't have my parents forever as my dad is almost 80 and my mom is in her 70's. Every day with my family is a precious gift and the treat I look forward to the most."
An 11-Day Literary Tour Winner
Doris Sullivan Las Cruces, NM
"Well, I was hoping it would include a peek at the Royal Wedding! This trip would just be fab for this fifty year old. I've always wanted to see Edinburgh Castle. My babysitter, when I was a little girl, was from Edinburgh and used to tell us so many stories about her home and a place called Princess Street Gardens. I knew then that I would just have to see it someday. The best part of the trip for me would be visiting my son. He's a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, stationed just outside London when he's not deployed. It's been too long since I gave him a hug. We won't see him over the holidays this year. Then, off to Ireland where my husbands family hails from. So wow, the whole trip would be fab for me!"
5 day Couples' Spa Getaway winner
Darlene Wilkins Rochester Hills, MI
"I met Timothy when I was 15 and I knew then that I had to be with him forever I married him on July 15, 1972 when I was 17. I loved Tim so much that I named all of my four children after him. We have been together 38 years. We grew up together and he always takes care of me. To be able to completely share my love for him, 38 years later, is the deepest gift I can think of. We both have health problems and physical changes that have made us both somewhat insecure . Dealing with the challenges of our now grown children has taken time and energy away from us being able to focus on what's truly important. I want to experience that youthful vigor again with my Tim"
Candida Royale Book Winner
Elizabeth Steele Prior Lake, MN
"My first crush, at age 8, was Dean Martin. He was so handsome, funny and charming. I recall watching his variety show with my grandma. She had a crush on him as well. We had lively conversations about who loved him the most!"
"A Night Of Passion" Winner
Susan Higgins Savannah, GA
"I love the 1790 Inn in beautiful Savannah, Georgia. The restaurant is located in a very old inn with lots of old brick work and working fireplaces. They have wonderful tables for two, large enough to enjoy dinner and small enough to play footsies under! They have mood music from a piano player, playing songs that FOF's know the words to, good wine and good food. I love that it never feels touristy, even in this city made for tourists. It always feels like a special occasion for the two of us when my significant other (whoops, now husband - I'm a 60 year old newlywed) dine there!"
A Night of Live Music Giveaway Winners
Barb Mazzara Pinconning, MI
"Yes, but only when no one is home to hear me. My daughter says that I sound like a sick frog. I have always wanted to see California and I can't think of a better way than to enjoy the tribute to Bob Hope."
Lynne Troiano Palm Harbor, Florida
"No, I don't sing in the shower. I wish that I could open my mouth to sing and hear myself with a lovely voice. I guess that I just wasn't blessed with the gift of song. I do remember watching Jan Daley and Bob Hope on television. My whole family looked forward to watching Bob's U.S.O. tours. We all appreciated the talent, humor and sacrifices that everyone made. I cried when he passed away. No one has ever filled his shoes. Thank you Jan, for doing this tribute."
"The Ultimate FOF Playlist" Winners
Judy O'Neil Labins Sherborn, MA
What musician should every FOF know about?
Kasey Chambers "The Captain" ....haunting - I cry every time I hear it"
Sheila Doughty Conway, AR
What musician should every FOF know about?
"Jude Johnstone - Beautiful voice, beautiful songs, range of styles."
Memphis and Graceland Winner
Leslie Saunders Roswell, Georgia
"My first concert was to see Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye at the University of Maryland's Cole Field house. It was July and my mother had died of breast cancer three months earlier. My father was so depressed and missed her so much. I purchased two tickets and invited him to be my date. It was his first social outing since my mother's death. We had a fabulous time and for the remainder of the summer, until I returned to school, we had a concert date each week. We ended up seeing just about everybody who came to the D.C. area. We went to rhythm & blues, pop, rock and classical concerts. The type of music didn't matter. We'd always take wine and a bag of Hershey's Kisses. It brought us closer together until his death, 35 years later. My father cherished our concert-filled summer."
Amy Butler Travel Trio from Kalencom Winner
Jan Mabey Bountiful, Utah
"I take the soaps and shampoos. I used to travel often and so I accumulated a lot. At the end of the year I donate the majority of soaps and shampoos to the women's shelter. They not only need it, but it makes them feel special to receive it."
Beverly Johnson Haircare Bundle Winner
Dennice Rossi Red Wing, Minnesota
"I used to wash my hair every day. I no longer wash it daily. I have curly, dry hair that I color and straighten, so it really takes a beating. I have found my hair is in much better condition not washing it every day. I have stopped blow drying it too. It styles so much nicer the second day. It almost feels freeing not washing it daily!"
Yogaforce yoga mat winner
Sophia Sutton Lee's Summit, Missouri
"I love the downward dog yoga pose. It feels so good to stretch like that. My greyhound, Iris, does it naturally all the time when she gets up from resting. We often do it together and she even knows the word "stretch". My family practiced yoga together back in the 50's. We were clearly ahead of the times. I feel fortunate to have been exposed to their philosophies at that young age and have been doing yoga, stretching or Chi Gong ever since."
Custom Painting Winner
Sherie Otteson Cottonwood, California
"What a wonderful gift and what a great talent! I would love to have a painting of my mother done. I really think that is what I would appreciate the most! I just think it would be nice to give to my kids as well as my mom! My mother will be 82 this coming March. She is a strong woman who is taking care of my sister who has Parkinson’s. She also took care of me when my lupus and fibromyalgia was roaring full blast. She is a very giving and loving woman…!!"
Snow Farm Retreat Winner
Margie Boule Portland, Oregon
"I have spent my adult life working in stressful jobs, being creative in the margins of my days. I have written, sung, acted and danced. I've always wanted to learn to draw and paint. I tell my friends, 'I'm not artistic and can't even play Hangman.' Inside, however, I harbor the secret desire to travel through my days, even the mundane days, with a sketchbook at my side. I was laid off from my well-loved, longtime job recently and can't seem to find an employer interested in hiring a hard-working baby boomer. I've decided to embrace this temporary retirement, and look for low cost ways to learn and stretch. If I won this, I would take the Drawing For The Absolutely Terrified class. There are a lot of things to be terrified about lately, and it would be nice if drawing was no longer one of them!"
Knitting Project Kit Winner
Kathy Smith Lolo, MT
"Chocolate is my favorite winter drink and color put in to a 100% Italian cashmere cowl. What more can you ask for when winter sets in. It is always difficult to keep warm with your feet in 3 feet of snow in the northwest. This sure looks like chocolate heater heaven to me!"
Soft Surroundings Set Winner
Darcy Howe Greenbelt, MD
"I imagine myself in the steel blue warmth of the Snuggle robe watching the November rain come down, all cozy and comfy, drinking tea. I then remember how wonderful it will be to wake up Christmas morning and put on my Snuggle robe in pristine cream. Oh, I must treat myself to this soft and beautiful robe in pristine cream or steel blue. What to do, what to do....order two?"
Sorella Hostess Set Winner
Pamela Wood Trussville, AL
"I do own fine china that belonged to my grandmother and aunt. I use my beautiful dishes quite often. Once when my grandson Jeremiah was three, he would not eat. I then did what my grandmother had taught me to do. I made a wonderful breakfast and used my china just for him. He loved it and it became our own tradition. Jerimiah loves his scrambled eggs on Nana's fine china."
Career Makeover Winner
Kitty Barton Prairie Village, Kansas
"I was a stay at home mom for 25 years when my husband suddenly passed away. I was scared and took the first available job. Eight years later and I am still there. It is a job and not a career. I have finally reached a point in my life where I am ready to set sail and chart my course."
Aeon Scout Messenger Bag Winner
Sandy De Jesus Wayne, New Jersey
"The Aeon Scout bag in BLUE absolutely MATCHES my Vespa scooter (by the way, I just passed 10,000 miles this past Saturday...not bad for 4 years riding only 6 months out of the year!!!). The Graphite Image BLUE passport holder would be fabulous for my planned trip to Italy to ride my Vespa through the Tuscan countryside. In keeping with the BLUE theme, how about Om Yoga Mat by Dream Yoga Mat? One can never have too many yoga mats, especially with 55 year old knees!"
Jax on the Stoop Necklace winner
CJ Herbert New Haven, Connecticut
"I love the jax! We were too poor for skates. Jax was the social game of my neighborhood. We played until we had to raise the skill level. On your knees. One hand behind your back. Throw the ball up from behind your knee. Bend over, touch your toes before you pick up. Eyes closed. Bounce the ball against the wall first. We were the baddest. I couldn't do the 'spin first'. Too dizzy!"
Skate Queen Necklace winner
Sharon Murner Clayton, Ohio
"Wow, when I saw the skate key, it took me back almost 60 years. I can still hear my mother saying, 'Sharon, do not skate on the hill'. Of course, we skated on the hill. I don't know which was toughest, losing a skate on the hill, or trying to stop without going in to traffic at the bottom! "
Glissandra Winner
Ruth Sklar Williamsport, Pennsylvania
"I have used Clinique products often. I use a loofah glove to exfoliate my face every few days. I use Retin A daily. I then use a moisture lotion for mature skin, whichever product I happen to like at the moment. I wash with French glycerin soap day and night. I use Clinique moisturizer before bed. As to whether people notice, I think they do. I was in the ER with a migraine and the doctor asked me how old I was. I told him that I was 64. He said, "Oh my gosh, I though you were 35!" It was almost worth the migraine to hear that. "
Red Mountain Resort Wellness Giveaway Winner
Victoria Salti Wilson La Habra Heights, California
"I have been diligently eating my veggie servings, particularly the ones that are highest in nutrients. Exercise is a feel good activity anyway, so that part was easy. It just became more important to make sure I did it. I like being in beautiful places, like Utah, when I hike. The beautiful environment is motivating and creates a nice setting for exercise. Music is excellent for the soul. I have reconstructed my music library with different play lists for my mood. I've stayed away from drugs and medication, I have never liked them. Simply said, exercise, tunes, nature and eating right should help most women. The real trick is motivating them. Once you get to do it, you just can't stop."
Covergirl Simpy Ageless Serum Primer Winner
DawnMarie Helin Saratoga Springs, New York
"I do not go tanning. After a lifetime of being at the lake and only using sunscreen as an adult, I see the signs of aging more in the areas where I've burned or tanned darkly. I've seen similar signs on my children and try to keep them safe as can be with warnings and some show and tell. My daughter has asked to go tanning and done so once or twice before a big dance. She even understands the danger and the reason to be more careful."
Ramona Singer Earrings Winner
Michele Donay Boynton Beach, Florida
"My guilty pleasure television show is Bravo's Housewives of New York. I honestly love this show. I pour myself a glass of wine, light a candle or two, and watch this show. I tivo the show and do not delete it after I watch it. When Ramona and the girls went to St. John, I watched the 3 or 4 episodes about 6 times. It just made me laugh and feel good. I also love "Mad Men" which is not such a guilty pleasure. Love, love the show."
$250 Gift Certificate of Party Goods from Windy City Novelties Winner
Suzanne Burnett Albany, Oregon
"The right blend of people (no hostile enemies), comfortable and fun atmosphere, good eats and don't run out of ice."
Fab Faves Local Delicacies Winner
Dianne Conner San Luis Obispo, California
"An FOF gal, Danna, has been making organic dark chocolate peanut butter cups that are the most decadent ever! Not only are they delicious, but they're beautiful and handmade with love and passion."
Orelle Jackson Columbus, Ohio
"Jeni's is a local ice cream maker. She uses all local products to make her heavenly ice creams. While she has many wonderful flavors, Queen City Cayenne is my favorite. It is a rich, chocolate ice cream, smooth, creamy and a definite kick of cayenne pepper. So, you have this delicious cool, creamy chocolaty taste followed by a kick of spice. The juxtaposition of cold and hot, creamy and spicy is a celebration for your taste buds. For those of you who are dying to try some of Jeni's Ice Cream but don't live in Columbus, you can still join the ice cream party - Jeni does mail orders!"
Rugelach Winner
Corinne Garrett Tavares, Florida
"I do the cooking - my husband is a survival cook, so if we are on a diet, he cooks and we lose weight. My brother and sister in law do not cook at all, so it's always catering at their house and made from scratch at mine! Needless to say, everyone gravitates to my house for the holidays. The rugelach would be a yummy treat for holiday breakfast and lets me off the hook for morning sweets!"
Wardrobe Edit Winner
Myra Garber Wantagh, New York
"I can't part with an orange/yellow harlequin sweater that my grandmother made for me when I was 12. When I wear it, I remember her."
Fab Faves/Favorite Local Nail Salon Winner
Cathy Buckwalter Loudonville, New York
"Jean Paul is owner-operated with a very clean, contemporary, up-to-date atmosphere and technology. Clientele can be difficult at times and the owner and staff always manage to conduct business with a good head, diplomacy, and great hearts. The skill, competency, innovation, creativity, knowledge, and intelligence of the staff and operators is breath-taking. The employer and employees are also interesting and fun, and with great character. I get my mani/pedis twice a month and I've never been disappointed -- in 20 years!"
Good Housekeeping Cookbook Winner
Cheryl Wait Alexandria, Kentucky
"My favorite is a melon baller. I use it for scooping melons, ice cream, cookie and pastry dough, coring fruit and even to form tiny meatballs. It's a great time saver especially when I do anything small. It is also great for putting the indentations in cookie dough. I also use it to scrape out the seeds and insides of tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables. I even make truffles using the melon baller. It is truly a great tool! I have had to buy several extra ones as my grandchildren use them for Play dough, plaster of Paris and just plain old mud balls! "
BOOM Sticks Winner:
Rosalind Rickman Castro Valley, California
"I wear my 68 year old face as a badge of my life. I truly believe that beauty is an "inside job" and we radiate our beauty with our attitudes and compassions. I would love to try all of the Boomsticks as I believe all of us could use a little help."
Cookbooks Winner:
Donna O'Sullivan Livingston, New Jersey
"My treasured cookbook is my Mom's Fanny Farmer Boston Cooking School Cookbook. My Mom passed away a few years ago at the age of 90, after teaching all seven of her children ( 6 of them boys!) to cook. Her cookbook is old and worn, with notes she made on some of the pages. The best thing about it, is the story behind it. When she and my father married, he gave it to her a a gift on their first Christmas together. SHE THREW IT AT HIM!!! She was highly insulted at the thought he would imagine she would need a cookbook!!!"
"Eat, Pray, Love" Winner:
Yolanda F. Martinez San Antonio, Texas
"While all the rewards on the World Market Explorer benefits page are great... for me, the surprise birthday gift is the one I am looking forward to. It doesn't matter how "mature" you are, who doesn't like the mystery and the wonder of a "SURPRISE". Thanks for the opportunity of registering for the chance to win the "Eat, Pray, Love" gift package. Winning will give me the opportunity to "surprise" family and some close friends with these gifts."
Raindrop Vases Winner:
Debra Miller Rainsville, AL
"I was excited just thinking of having one of your beautiful works, but realizing that you're giving away a "Raindrop" trio was too good to be true! Amazing colors, but I love the "cool" collection that you have pictured. How refreshing! Just like a cool rain on a hot summer day! I want! I want! I want!!!"
Room Design Makeover Winner:
Sharon Nord New York, New York
"I recently left the nest to follow my grown children to The Big Apple. I brought two end tables and some pictures with me. I am completely changing my style, my address and my attitude. Please help me be FOF and not BOF (boring over fifty)"
Lipstick Fave Winner:
Yvonne Yoerger Annandale, Virginia
"My current fave lipstick is Cover Girl Continuous Color Lipstick Shimmer, Natural Frost. It advertises "moisture care with over 50% emollients, including vitamin E and vitamin A," and I can vouch for its moisturizing quality. When I had it on at my last appointment with my facialist, she commented on how it helped my lips and was the most flattering color she had seen on me."
Audrey Sullivan Hand Painted Custom Art Winner:
Vicky Briggs Farragut, Iowa
"I would love to have a painting of the house my grandfather built, my mother grew up in, and then I grew up in. It is getting ready to be torn down and there are so many years of memories in that house"
4 - Day Artists' Retreat Winner:
Beth Reiter Vashon, Washington
"Oh my, I would so love to participate in this Artist Retreat with Anna Rhodes! The Harmony Hill Retreat Center holds a special place in my heart as I attended a retreat five years ago for people newly diagnosed with cancer. It was a soulful, soothing, life-changing experience. This incredibly beautiful and healing place is a perfect setting for an art retreat. I have been longing to take a class with Anna Rhodes for a few years now. She seems to have a deep understanding of art, people and creating. Whenever I receive an email announcing a new retreat with her, I get so excited. I just have not been able to attend due to both illness and financial restrictions. I am recovering...yay! I am feeling strong and vibrant now, at almost 52. I have always been a visual person and the muse has often pulled me to do art here and there. It has often taken a back seat though. My cancer put it where it belongs in the front seat. I have a renewed commitment to honoring my creativity in all its forms. It has been transformational for me and for my health. Truly! I can imagine that an Artist's Retreat with Anna Rhodes would be the replenishment I need to continue to heal and create a life of beauty. I have started making shrines that I sell in stores and also create custom shrines for people going through various transitions or milestones in their lives. The skills I would learn at the Artist Retreat would be incorporated into my work and shared with many. Thank you so much for this opportunity!"
$150 Designer Children's Clothing Gift Certificate Winner:
Cathy Giles Georgetown, Kentucky
"My five year old granddaughter loves, loves, loves clothes and she will go nuts over the designs at Star Spangled Carousel! She is very creative with her wardrobe and she would love to be able to shop this site!"
"Ah" Ring Winner:
Pamela Thyssen Richmond, Texas
"It was a dark and stormy night. As she drove in the rain, she thought back to all of the times when she was younger and had always wanted to be older! Now that she was older, she realized as she looked down at the sparkling diamond ring on her finger - maybe that wasn't such a bad thing. If I hadn't been fab and fifty, I would never have won this beautiful ring! Ah, I am always hoping...."
Cooperstown Cookie Winner:
Daphne Rice Portland, Oregon
"As a kid I loved singing "I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy"...a song, believe it or not, that I learned at Camp Fire Girls Camp. As a second grader, I thought it was about the Yankees baseball team! Ahhhh... the naivete of youth!"
Ella Vickers Bags Winner:
Vickie Weyand Elberta, Alabama
"These bags are perfect for Alabama's Gulf Coast. We haven't been able to take our beautiful boat out this summer because of the oil and it is very sad. I would place the rope tote on my kitchen counter and the duffel on the bench in my bedroom (when they weren't on my arm) to remind me of better days ahead when the "coast is clear"."
Winner NYC Insider Shopping Trip:
Adrienne Meyer Hastings on Hudson, New York
"There's a life force in Manhattan that's like nothing anywhere else. If it weren't for my fabulous job as a theatre teacher and the late night demands, I'd live smack dab in the craziness that is NYC. Even though I can hop in my car and be in the center of the world in minutes, a weekend with friends, who are my angels, would make memories that last the rest of our lifetime."
Winner Fab Fave - Fitness Trainer Gift Bag Giveaway:
Susan Brod Savannah, Georgia
"I have always hated exercise even though I knew it was good for me. I've joined gyms before and have had other trainers. It was only when I met Michelle LeFleur, that I understood what a difference having a good trainer meant. I originally started working with Michelle to loose weight and get strength in my legs after multiple surgeries. Michelle helped me develop a training program I actually like and feel good about. Knowing that she is waiting for me at the gym, makes me want to rush right over. Best of all, she's introduced me to the healing properties of water exercise. When I'm in the pool, I can move my legs as if there is nothing wrong with them. I'm not only stronger, I move better and think a lot more about my health and what I eat. Michelle is not only a trainer; she's become a friend, motivator and cheerleader for every ounce of weight I loose and every ounce of strength I gain."
Winner California Spa and Wardrobe Giveaway:
Leah Houseman Oviedo, Floria
"My sister and I are17 months apart and we were both given away for adoption as infants. I didn't even know that she existed until just over two years ago when she found me on the internet. We were both raised as only children. The pure pleasure and joy of finally having a sister, now that we are both in our 60's, is almost too much to take. My sister lost her job in the current economic downturn. We've only been able to see each other once, for two days, since we connected. It would mean so much to me to be able to surprise her with this Spa Getaway. The two of us could spend some quality time together, catching up on the 60 years that we never had together. Thank you for considering us."
Winner Yantra Mat Giveaway:
Leslie Wostenberg Danville, California
"One word... menopause! I go to a yoga class to help me maintain my inner balance and curb mood swings as I go through this new phase of my life. I would love to try this new mat as a replacement for my well worn old one. Thank you for your generosity in awarding them to some lucky winners. Keeping my fingers crossed."
Winner Nook eReader + Unlimited Audiobooks Giveaway:
Cathy Wilson Tucson, Arizona
"I would first listen to anything (even the phone book) read by British actor Alan Rickman. He has the sexiest and most divine male voice there is. Regarding the Nook, I found myself wishing for one several months ago. When I moved from a 3-bedroom house to a very small apartment I had to sell over 800 of my beloved books. I just didn't have the space to keep them. I was very sad and only able to store 200 books in my new apartment. I thought, if there was only a way to keep all of my books...hmmmm...how about a Nook?"
Winner of the "Dressing Your Truth" Package Giveaway:
Ruth James of Holland, Michigan
" I was once an active teacher, runner and dancer. I have become disabled by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I miss "me" and yearn to find out how I can be the best that I can be now. I would definitely choose the "Discover Your Personal Beauty Profile Bundle". I know that I am still beautiful in there somewhere. I'd love to find it and use it to its fullest."
Winner of the Denise Knox handbag and jewelry giveaway:
Gaye McGill of St. Peters, Missouri
"My favorite is the Hobo Handbag (item #8394). Now that I don't have to carry around tons of stuff anymore, this bag is just the right size. The pleats make it look soft, feminine and comfortable, just like me."
Winner of the One-of-a-kind custom perfume giveaway:
Yvette Walker of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
"If I had one, my signature scent would most definitely include vanilla bean. It is also my favorite ice cream. I'm a purist when it comes to scent and ice cream. It's sweet without being too sappy, heady without being too heavy. It is intoxicating without overcoming those around you."
Other winners:
Winner of the Cooking Class giveaway:
Jennifer Rutsky of New York, New York
"I have an irrational fear of uncooked meat. I would love to overcome this and learn how to make some basic, staple meals like chicken parmigiana."
Winner of the Gourmet Cheese Box giveaway:
Harriet Brand of New York, New York
"White Stilton with mango and ginger would be the cheese that I would try. I can't decide however, if I should eat it or wear it as a fragrance."
Winner of the K.I.S. Kit giveaway:
Lily Prellezo of Miami, Florida
"My husband and I were guests at a charity event in LA. Many big-time entertainers were in attendance as well. I was wearing a new, beautiful tunic which was a little too long. I hemmed it up using the hotel sewing kit. After sitting in a chair for a while listening to speeches, I got up and noticed the hem falling apart. I could have used your kit right there and then. I'm just thankful that I wasn't an A-lister because that droopy hem would have made it in the tabloids for sure!"
Winner of the Petit Soleil Bed and Breakfast giveaway:
Frances Cole of Statesville, North Carolina
"This is the most charming B&B ever. I can almost feel the warmth of the rooms. I'd take a book outside for a relaxing afternoon. The beach nearby may be the loudest call to me. I have never been to this beautiful area. I started a "Bucket List" this year when I turned 60 and this would definitely be on it."
Winner of the Tunic Giveaway:
Cathy Ballou of Orange, Massachusetts
"Can you believe I've never worn a tunic in my life? I'd try the buttercup though - great design and style. It feels cool and breezy right through the computer screen!"
Cari Corey of Easton, Maryland
"Crisp white goes with everything. I could see myself wearing it with jeans, leggings of any color, capris or long shorts. You could even wear it as a bathing suit cover up at the beach. The v-neck helps elongate the neck and the pin tucks help hide the post-menopausal weight gain. How utterly perfect."
Winner of the Career Makeover Giveaway:
Debra Bachelder of Mount Gilead, Ohio
"I am about to launch my first business: DFB City Street Gems. It is 3 distinct but related lines of costume couture jewelry. The website and marketing materials are being developed. A few pieces of jewelry are in production. There are one of a kind pieces of jewelry that are hand made in the USA. As I believe there is nothing more painful than regret, I dove in head first to this business venture. I would love this Career Makeover for the support it will give me over the next 12 weeks. I consider this to be insurance. The hot accessories add to the look of confidence that I need. What artist doesn't need help in organizing? This package is perfect. The timing is perfect as well. Oh please, oh please, oh please....I'm wishing, not begging."
Winner of the Zavida Gemstones Giveaway:
Patricia Assanowicz of Waterford, Connecticut
"I would choose the blue topaz stone. It is the color of my dad's eyes. He had the bluest eyes and I miss him so much. Blue not only reminds me of my dad, but also the water which I love. "
Winner of the Montelucia Spa Giveaway:
Pamm Peterson of Lutherville, Maryland
"The Harvest Festival Eurfound Spa Treatment sounds amazing. One hundred and ten minutes of joy - with no kids, no phone and no one asking, fussing or requiring my attention. I can't even remember the last time I had 110 minutes of peace to myself."
Winner of the Frame The Date Giveaway:
Patricia Lewis of Albany, Georgia
"My husband passed away on April 10, 2008. I would love to frame the last picture that we took together."
Winner of the Fab Find Giveaway:
Rita Qualls of Little Rock, Arkansas
Winner of the Kris Radish Book Giveaway:
JeaneMarie Hall of Olympia, Washington
"I always buy a new book before I travel, especially on a plane. It helps me control my breathing, particularly if there is turbulence. I get involved in the characters and most of the time I don't even realize that we are landing. The first book of yours that I read was "Annie Freeman Fabulous Traveling Funeral" and I fell in love with your writing style. I now own all of your books. This book would be a privilege to own and would complete my collection."
Winner of the Beirn Bag Giveaway:
Sarah Baldwin of South Thomaston, Maine
"I've always tended toward safe, neutral colors. Now that I'm so Fab and Over Fifty, I'm becoming much more style adventurous. I would love this bright orange stylish bag to show off my new fearlessness of color."
Winner of the Joseph Stuart Weitzman Shoes Giveaway:
Courtney Buratto of Moscow, Idaho
"Swanky! These would support my vision of the jeans, t-shirt and sexy shoes uniform. I love this look!"
Winner of the CareerBag Giveaway:
Louise Baranger of Falls Village, Connecticut
"I was amazed to find out I had won this bag! Since I travel so much for business, I cannot think of anything I'd rather have! Many thanks to FabOverFifty, the most FAB site on the net!"
Winners of the iJourney Giveaway:
Belinda Boyles of Prior Lake, Minnesota
My perfect travel companion is... "My darling fiance, because he never gripes about taking side trips. Two days ago we were driving from Queen Creek, AZ to Casa Grande for lunch. We saw a site for a National Park Monument for the Casa Grande Ruins. He eagerly turned off the road and we spent $10 and about 30 minutes exploring these ruins of the Hohokam Indians. It was fascinating. He's a real trooper, never turns down a chance to learn or see something new, and he's 77 years young! I love him with all my heart!"
Other winners:
Marcia Robinson of New York, New York
Winners of the Yoga Sandals Giveaway:
Elizabeth Larson of Prior Lake, Minnesota
"Living in Minnesota is not for the faint of heart - blizzards, below 0 temps, frigid winds. When the first hint of summer arrives, let the celebration begin! My personal preference is to wear only sandals for those brief warm months. I would love to sport the best looking, best feeling pair there is. Maybe I'd even wear them under my snow boots in the winter just cuz they feel so good!!"
Other winners:
Annamarie Dodge of Rio Rancho, New Mexico
Winner of the Lanvin Necklace Giveaway:
Deborah Milne of Houston, Texas
"I'd wear this lovely necklace to my daughters high school graduation ceremony and party! Bravo to Mario's. I didn't realize that they were located in my home town of Seattle. Low and behold, I'm flying in to Portland this weekend and will check out this incredible boutique. I adore the philosophy that it's fabulous to wear a special piece of jewelry daily. I couldn't agree more! Walmart to the Met, it's all good. Thank you FOF and a special thank you to Mario's!"
Winner of the Paris Trip Giveaway:
Joanne Bernardi of Rochester, New York
"I don't usually look forward to seeing that little red light on my office phone that indicates that I have a message. I honestly couldn't believe it when I realized the message was from FOF telling me that I had won the Paris trip. I had to listen to the message twice because I still couldn't believe that I had actually won something. Then my very next thought was: Paris--with me there!"
Winner of the Barbara Berk Earrings Giveaway:
Laurie Scheinman of Baltimore, Maryland
"My mother died in 1957. She was 38 years old. She left me a gold choker that is exactly the same weave as the rose gold earrings. I can't believe it! I have never seen anything else that matched that necklace. Barbara, your design truly brought tears to my eyes."
Winner of the Bluemercury Gift Basket Giveaway:
Joanne Vicente of Miami, Florida
"The gifts I received from Bluemercury are absolutely amazing! I've been luxuriating in the finest lotions, creams and hair products imaginable since they arrived. I've always taken good care of my skin, so that only my gray hair look as old as I am, but these wonderful products have made my skin better than ever. Along with that, of course, my spirits are better than ever!
Thank you so much, FOF good fairies, for such wonderful feelings!"
Winner of the Jarbo Giveaway:
Robin Roth of Lexington, Kentucky
"I am amazed and thrilled to have won an outfit from the fabulous Jarbo Collection. It will always remind me that FabOverFifty is a great place to be -- online and in life! "
Winner of the Fave Moisturizer Giveaway:
Linda McCoy of Liberty Township, Ohio
"I'm so excited about winning! Thank you again for selecting me to win my favorite brand of make-up. Have a wonderful day!"
Winner of the Hairstylist Giveaway:
Michelle Nunley of Salt Lake City, Utah
"Thanks!"
Winner of the Face Cleanser Giveaway:
Denise Morelli of Harrison City, Pennsylvania
"Oh my goodness! What a wonderful surprise! My husband is looking at me as I giggle and read your email out loud in disbelief. I will certainly enjoy the recommended Olay Regenerist Face Wash and will now have plenty to share with my daughter and two sisters. Thanks so much for the gift and the fab informative site."
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Allie-Coosh Giveaway:
Melody Susong of Gibert, Arizona
"Wow, thank you so much. I can't wait to get the necklace & wrap!"
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Blog Entry FOF Goodie Bag Giveaway:
Leigh Chandler of Las Vegas, Nevada
"YEAH! I never win anything and this is such a fabulous prize! Thank you so much. What a great way to start my day, thanks again!"
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Broadway Show Giveaway:
Marcia Cloutier of Wellington, Florida
"All I can say is 'WOW!' I love NYC. I called a girlfriend I've been friends with since I was nineteen. We have both been saying we want to go back to New York and see a Broadway show. We are so excited. Collected Stories sounds like a great play, and we both said we want to go to the Guggenheim Museum. (Something we have always talked about but have never fit in on previous trips.) I will blog all about the trip upon our return!"
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Bluemercury Giveaway:
Pieri Hayes of Cohoes, New York
"Wow, I never expected to win. I'm not usually the lucky one. Thank you very much, I am glad I found this site."
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Restaurant Giveaway:
Cathy Mealey of Lynnfield, Massachusetts
Her restaurant: Hammersley's
"What a treat!! I hope you come to Boston some time to eat at Hammersley's - it is so special. This truly made my day - thank you and everyone at Faboverfifty!!"
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Perfume Giveaway:
Marjory Pawley of Rochester, New York
Her perfume: Spring Flower by Creed
Why she loves it: “It's wonderful to wear any time, anywhere!”
You can buy Spring Flower by Creed from BlueMercury.com and receive FREE SHIPPING! Use promo code FOFCREED at checkout
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
Winner of the Yves Saint Laurent Bag Giveaway:
Cat Jeffries, Danville Indiana
“This is very exciting news. I feel as though this web site will give energy and confidence to a lot of women, including myself. Thank you for this wonderful gift. I am looking forward to showing it off to all of my friends. I will have to give them your website, because they will not believe it!”
Thanks to Joan Shepp for giving away the bag.
Click here to find out about this week's giveway!
