Thursday, March 10, 2016

My Real Life Reviews: I LOVE SPRING CONTEST 2016!




REALLY DO  SPRING! :-)



I've been thinking it's long-overdue that I hosted a contest here at My Real Life Reviews. 


And what better reason than to welcome spring?


One lucky winner will win all of these great prizestotal value approx. $200!! :-)




To enter the contest, leave a comment below, completing this sentence:


I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE.....


That's it, easy peasy!

And a few "rules" , dos and don'ts:

-Contest is open to US and Canadian residents

Exception: void in Quebec you can read why here. I've had to add this to my contests. Provincial laws in Quebec regarding contests are hard to understand but I'm not able to by-pass these restrictions. 

-No anonymous comments please. Please sign in with a valid blog account, if at all possible. Anonymous comments will not be considered as an entry. You can include your email address if your blog is not linked to one already, so that I can contact the winner.  

-Winner picked by a random system and will have 10 days to claim their prize. If prize package is not claimed within 10 days, an alternate winner will be chosen.

-Optional: If you'd like an additional entry, subscribe to My Real Life Reviews (see right sidebar for subscription link) and mention that you have subscribed in your comment/entry. My stats continue to go up every month, but the subscriptions haven't. ;<)

-Contest closes March 31st. Stop by the first week in April to see if you are the lucky winner!

Now, for more information about all the goodies up for grabs! 




The folks at Boogie Board have generously supplied a Boogie Board EWriter: Jot 8.5 for this contest!

 You can read my recent Boogie Board review here. 

This is one of the best gadgets I've ever tried. I use my Jot 4.5 all the time. 

And in this even larger (Jot 8.5) version, with all the bells and whistles, a whole lotta fun awaits, for the lucky winner. 



Gourmet Salt Assortment Gift Box
From The Spice House, this beautiful set of gourmet sea salts. 

This salt lover's box includes:Hawaiian Black Lava and Red Alea Clay Sea Salts - These two salts from the pristine Pacific waters off Molokai are dried in pools with black lava powder and local red clay, respectively. Their dramatic colors and light, crunchy texture make them wonderful finishing salts.
Portuguese "Salt Cream" Sea Salt - This is the Portuguese version of the famous French Fleur de Sel, the first salt to crystallize as drying pools evaporate. Because Portugal is drier than France, the salt forms faster and becomes whiter and fluffier than its French counterpart.
Himalayan Pink Salt - Formed by deposits left by retreating prehistoric oceans, this pretty salt is known for it healthful minerals.
I'm a big fan of all of The Spice House products. I've used them many times in my own recipes, always with excellent and oh so tasty results.
 You can read my full review of The Spice House here. 

 

A copy of both of my newest cookbooks (eBook or print version, the winner's preference) are part of the prize package too! 
You can read more about both of these books/eBooks here:
As an avid cook, award-winning cookbook author and cooking instructor, I am passionate about all things "foodie". 
 I've included some of my fav all time recipes and many brand new ones, in my new Groovy Green collection. Happy Cooking! :-)

From my blog pal: Tammie at the Spirithelpers Etsy shop, a set of two of her lovely nature photo cards, with decorative envelopes. 
The owl photo/card shown above is one of my personal favs but the winner will be able to pick from dozens of choices at Spirithelpers
I always feel calm and happy when I'm browsing over there. A great place to find some special gift items too. You can also read more about Tammie and her work, in my recent OWL inspired post/review.

Just in time for pre-garden planning, an oh so fun and user-friendly gardening book, from another blog pal, author and oh so talented gardener: Ellen Zachos.
You can read my full review of this wonderful book here.
 I am NOT a great gardener but with Ellen's book at hand, planning and creating a beautiful and unique garden is possible for just about anyone. 
This is one of my all time fav books of ANY genre. Yes, it really is that good. 


Speaking of fav books, here's another one of mine, this time from the talented author: Elizabeth Day.
Living with Gusto is a unique and inspiring book that I "happened" to find and read at just the right time for me. I was in a bit of a funk at the time and also without internet access for a couple of weeks at that time too, so a perfect opportunity to savor each page of this special story. It remains a "keeper on my kindle" and a book that I have referred to many times, since first reading it.
You can read more about this special and memorable story here, in my full review. 
If you are in need of some inspiration, a "pick me up" and/or perhaps help with finding your muse again, check out Living with Gusto. You'll be glad you did! 

When it comes to getting out of a funk, I can't think of anything that works better for me, than improving my appearance, in some way. 
 A few years ago, I found out about the Happy Face Yoga, facial exercise program and decided (with initial skepticism) to give it a try. I'm sure glad I did!
See for yourself, in my full review, including before and after photos (how brave is that!!!) of my results, and after only a relatively short period of doing the Happy Face Yoga regime on a regular basis.
I have continued to use Happy Face Yoga, (about 3-4 times a week now, seems to be enough to sustain good results) and my face has remained toned and much firmer looking. Yes, a regular small time commitment is required to see real results but IMO, this is time so well spent. 

From the A. Vogel company, one of the best pain-relief products I've ever used. Natural, safe and oh so effective too.
You can read more about this fine product in my full review here.
The lucky winner will receive a DUO (2) PACK of Absolut Arnica gel, enough to provide soothing pain relief for all kinds of strains, sprains and minor sport injuries, for a long time to come. 
A little of this product goes a long way. Absolut Arnica gel is a product that I always like to have on hand, in case I overdo it when lifting, stretching, sometimes a minor twist of an ankle...and similar situations when I am in need of effective but also safe and natural pain relief that I can count on. This product is a real winner! 





And from another of my fav Etsy shops: Erzulie Cosmetics, 3 beauty products, to give your spring look a boost.  
A Zoe lip/cheek color stick, Nona Lipstick and Eye Depuffer.
I regularly shop at Erzulie Cosmetics. I particularly love Rhonda's (shop owner) lip/cheek sticks, cover-sticks, foundation and the eye-depuffer too. 
Gentle, natural and effective skin care and cosmetics, very reasonably priced and with excellent customer service too!
You can read more about Erzulie cosmetics in my previous review of the Eye Depuffer Balm.

***

I look forward to reading your comments/entries with your thoughts about spring. Enter soon and do spread the word. This is going to be a fun contest!


GOOD LUCK EVERYONE AND HAPPY SPRING!! :-)

87 comments:

  1. I'm obviously NOT entering the contest but I thought I'd kick things off with my own thoughts on spring:

    I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE....

    It is for me, the season of renewal and rebirth.
    Anything and everything seems possible, at this time of year.



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    1. i feel as you do this time of year! I especially love the trees that bloom white flowers (are they almond or...not sure)..and the pink trees. I head out everyday to see what's blooming, whether on foot or in the jeep.

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    2. I love spring as it is a time for renewal of the earth and the human spirit

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  2. ohhh, i love spring and i love your blog and this contest - wonderful. So here goes.

    I love spring because the views outside my windows are beautiful, the walks on the path at the lake are full of nature's romance and the grosbeaks return to play at the feeders. All of nature sings to me this time of year.

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    1. That is one beautiful and evocative entry Sandy, thank you!!!

      And yes, I agree, a wonderful contest. So may generous sponsors that made it possible, supplying these great prizes, just perfect to welcome spring too. :-)

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    2. Make that so MANY generous sponsors. I'm typing too fast today LOL!!! I have a lot to get done today. ;-)

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  3. Wow!!! What a terrific "give away" Geraldine!!!

    I Love Spring Because...

    spring showers not only gift us with budding trees
    and pastel flowers...
    but we again have the daylight
    for many more hours.
    Robins return and are homeward winging
    and treetops are filled with colorful birds singing.
    The earth is warming for plantings and seeds...
    even my favorite, golden-yellow dandelion weeds.
    Babies are born to renew our good earth
    with all living things a time of rebirth~ JFM

    Hugs

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    Replies
    1. That is just lovely Jan, I could visualize these scenes as I read your words, thanks so much!!! :-)

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    2. Thank you, Sandy...I loved your thoughts, too.
      As I do Geraldine's~

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  4. BTW...I forgot to mention that I use and love Arnica Gel for pain in my knees. I need both knees replaced but I refuse to have the surgery...no cartilage left in either knee. Oh well...my choice :)

    Hugs Again

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    Replies
    1. I agree Jan, this is a super product. I use the A. Vogel Arnica Gel on a regular basis too. Usually for my feet and ankles, as I mentioned in my review.

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    2. Geraldine please do not include me in the giveaway...I just wanted to comment about why I love spring and forgot to add that. I hope I haven't caused you any problems

      Hugs,
      Jan

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    3. No problem Jan but I'm surprised you don't want to be entered. ;-(

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  5. I can't enter the contest either, but what great prizes one lucky winner is going to get! Wow.

    I LOVE SPRING because, you can see and feel a new beginning on the horizon. I feel hopeful this time of year.

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    Replies
    1. I am feeling SO hopeful this spring Joe, I can relate to what you've written.

      I wish I COULD enter the contest too LOL, but I'll be glad that some lucky winner will have all these great prizes to enjoy, it is a fab selection of goodies, I agree. :-) The sponsors have been generous and I appreciate that very much.

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  6. I will love spring, when it gets here. Right now we're in the middle of gales and floods and bitterly - repeat BITTERLY - cold weather.

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    Replies
    1. Hard to imagine that Val, as I look out at a spring-like, sunny day, here in BC. I always picture the UK with rain but never COLD weather. I hope it passes very soon.

      Hope things are getting a bit easier for you too, hugs, G

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  7. WOW these are brilliant, Geraldine...makes me wish I lived in USA or Canada! LOL
    Seriously though, I really did love the introduction to all these items...especially those gorgeous Nature Photo cards, and the Happy Face Yoga Program. I would like to buy both of these!
    Many thanks for sharing.:)

    Big Hugs xoxoxo

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    Replies
    1. I agree, lots of brilliant prizes. I'm sorry that I can't have contests open to the UK, but sponsors send out the prizes afterwards and they usually don't want to make them worldwide contests, shipping can get to be SO expensive. Yes, you certainly could buy those items yourself too, maybe a treat is in store for you this coming week? ;-) We all need treats!!!

      Big hugs back to you, G

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  8. hum, my comment did not post. i will try again.

    such a generous give away Geraldine and so much work must have gone into this!

    I love how the sleeping world begins to awake and come to life in spring, including me ;-) the promise of life.

    I don't want to be included in the give away as i am part of it. But also wanted to let you know i shared this in a post. sweet Spring to you!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for your lovely thoughts on spring and for sharing this contest at your blog too Tammie.

      Thanks again for being a sponsor too. :-)

      Delete
  9. I like spring because I hate cold weather and spring is the start of warmer weather and beautiful flowers

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  10. I love Spring because it is the start of home grown veggies and herbs... early onions, parsley, peas and lettuce to name just a few of the early garden goodies.

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    1. I have also subscribed to My Real Life Reviews :)

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  11. I love Spring because I feel renewed and I get out of the house more, I am especially looking forward to doing yard work at my new home and sitting in the yard.

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  12. I love Spring because the snow melts, the weather gets warmer and the flowers begin to bloom!

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  13. I love spring because of the warmth you can almost smell in the air.

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  14. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE i love seeing more sunshine!

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  15. I love spring because it's a fresh start! It's a start for new adventures and a chance to go and refresh yourself. Whether it's the warmer weather, the cleaning, the holidays, etc... it starts becoming a happier time of the year and that's why i love it

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  16. I love Spring because the weather is perfect for walks and picnics and flowers are blooming everywhere. It just makes you feel good to be outside and listen to the birds sing.

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  17. I love Spring because the Winter is coming to an end and the Summer is near

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  18. I love spring because it's a time of growth and warmth!

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  19. I love Spring because the weather is warmer but still fresh!

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  20. I am so enjoying ALL your thoughts on spring.

    Keep those entries coming and have a great weekend! :-)

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  21. I love spring because it gives me hope for happier and warmer days. I don't think this account is connected to the right email so.. briannaraelumb18@gmail.com (dont spam me random people!!) I also subscribed to your newsletter :D

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  22. i love spring because i love the sun

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  23. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE.....
    It is when the garden soil dries out some and I can get back to planting my favorite veggies

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  24. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE I get to garden. I get to barbecue. I get to walk longer distances.

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  25. I love spring because I gut to throw on short's and a t shirt, put away boots and thick coat. I love to throw birdseed on the driveway for the birds and the little chipmunk who lives near.

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  26. I love spring because the weather gets warmer and the flowers bloom

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  27. I LOVE spring because it is the rebirth of the earth. Green grass, plants and flowers, warm sun and birds singing.

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  28. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE winters are so long, cold and gloomy! When the sun starts to come out in spring, it lifts my spirits and makes me feel much better than I do in the winter. I think its the sunshine that does it! I signed up for the RSS feed too! Thanks for the chance to win!

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  29. I love spring new flowers are blooming green grass new babies blue skies tried to sub but didn't see a link ireetoopretty@gmail.com

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    1. Subscribe link is on the right sidebar, close to the top of page.

      Delete
  30. I love Spring because everything seems to come to life; the trees, grass, flowers, warmer weather, birds, everythig seems a little brighter.

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  31. I love spring because it warms up and the plants and flowers smell lovely.

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  32. the weather here in Florida is perfect!

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  33. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE.....EVERYTHING IS FRESH AND NEW!

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  34. I love spring because...I can start gardening! I love to garden, and work on the yard. Spring is simply so refreshing and renewing, and for that I love spring.

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  35. I love spring because ... our family can finally get outside for some much-needed fresh air and sunshine! ;)

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  36. Luzviminda Gunter-SmithMarch 13, 2016 at 5:25 AM

    I also would like to thank you for the opportunity to join this give away, you have reviewed and shared a beautiful collection of products, if given the chance to be lucky, this are products that need to be shared to my visiting parents and sisters family, yes big family reunion and thats for me is the reason why I love spring, to reunite with the nature and family and friends we have not seen for a while. I have not seen them for over 7 years or so. THANK YOU

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  37. Luzviminda Gunter-SmithMarch 13, 2016 at 5:42 AM

    I love spring because it is the time of the year when the nature comes out of hibernation, from plants, anmals, little creatures and even human shares the outdoor space, flowers start to bud, birds non stop shirring that's the beauty of nature is upon us The best of all,springs when my parents and sisters family are visiting Canada for the first time, time to explore outdoor activities, show them the beauty of Canada, spending time together for bbq, sunbathing, gardening that me and my parents enjoy. Time to relax and watch as the days go by sharing beautiful memories spring can offer. Spring is like a breath of fresh air sharing great time with family, friends and the nature outside.

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  38. I know i can't win but I do love spring, because of the flowers, the birdsong, the warmer temperatures, the longer days....

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  39. I love spring because it seems so calm. All the dirty snow goes away, everything turns green and the birds start chirping. The colourful flowers start to poke out of the ground. I also like spring so I don't have to wear winter clothes anymore

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  40. I love spring because the sun shines more and the doors are open and you can hear the birds

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  41. I love spring for the nice weather, longer days and fresher air.

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  42. I Love Spring because - I start to feel alive again. I love winter but there's something about longer days and more frequent sunshine that just makes me so very happy. I like being able to get back to the beach and having adventures with my kids. We had a few in the snow but so much nicer with dry weather.
    I love spring because I get to be the Easter bunny.
    I love spring because I no longer need a jacket.
    Thanks so much for the opportunity!

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  43. I love spring because i get to plant flowers in my garden and go for walks in the nice crisp air

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  44. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE.....warmer weather is on the way, plants start blooming, the veggie growing season is around the corner, wildlife is active and buzzing, the air is fresh, the days are longer. I could go on... Thanks for the opportunity.

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  45. I love spring because the Earth is rejuvinated!

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  46. I love spring because the days are getting longer, flowers are blooming and the weather is getting warmer

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  47. I love Spring because of all the flowers starting to bloom signalling nicer weather is on it's way.

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  48. I love spring because winter is over, everything is new and cleansed and I feel better

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  49. I love spring because winter is over, everything is new and cleansed and I feel better

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  50. I love spring because very thing starts new and fresh again! The birds and flowers are nice, too.

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  51. I love spring because I love taking nature walks, enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery.

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  52. I Love Spring because every day is a surprise in our yard. Something new is popping up everyday that I forgot about from last year. All the spring birds are coming back and the robins have been singing their beautiful song. BLOSSOMS, BLOSSOMS,and more BLOSSOMS.Heavenly scents and fresh herbs for a pot of soup. Thank you for the wonderful giveaway :) Happy Spring !!

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  53. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE....
    my S.A.D. starts to lift, I dont have to freeze commuting by foot, walking the dog is easier, the suns up early, the birds sing, the wildlife comes out and everything starts to smell fresh

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  54. Thanks for your wonderful and inspiring thoughts on spring. :-)

    Have a great day and keep those entries coming!!

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  55. i love spring because everything is fresh and new. the earth comes alive bringing us new surprises everyday. the air is clean and light, the flowers are abundant and beautiful. every day is a new beginning!!!!

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  56. I love spring because I can get outside in my garden and watch all the plants coming up. slhaydon@hotmail.com

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  57. Julia H Juniperequinox@Yahoo.caMarch 19, 2016 at 2:39 AM

    I love spring because it makes me feel hopefull! As someone who struggles with Anxiety Disorders and health issues and other stresses, I love love LOVE the way that spring raises my spirits, and makes me feel more optomistic! Thanks for the chance, that is a great prize pack!

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  58. Spring is not my favorite but I do love hearing the springtime birds :)

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  59. I love Spring because the Chicago Park District will soon be opening the public bathrooms so that folks who ride their bikes and jog by the lakefront will have a place to go. The restrooms are closed each winter to protect the pipes from freezing.

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  60. I love spring because I get to see the colorful artistry of God..

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  61. I love Spring because after a long cold winter, the warmth of the sun starts returning and it is the rebirth of flowers, trees, grass and all the baby animals are being born.

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  62. I love when colors come back to nature. I love being able to open up the Windows and let fresh air into the house. I also live it when my lilacs bloom.

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  63. I love Spring because it smells beautiful and I live in Winnipeg, Winter is long and cold. By spring I need the smell of trees & grass, plus it is like everything comes alive!!

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  64. I love Spring because I can enjoy the outdoors without gloves! Also.... I subscribed! (teesheeweeshee@yahoo.com)

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  65. I love Spring because the earth looks alive again, which makes me feel more alive.

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  66. Only a couple more days to go! Stop by April 1st to see who the lucky winner is!

    Happy Week and Good Luck to Everyone.

    Have really enjoyed reading all your thoughts about spring. :-)

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  67. I love spring because of the chirping of birds and the blooming of flowers.

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  68. I LOVE SPRING BECAUSE i get to start my garden... i wait all winter to start planting again

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  69. I love spring because it awakens things from the dormant phase. It sends off a whole new energy, a breath of fresh air. It puts a smile on people's faces to see the flowers, the birds chirping.the festivals in the parks.

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  70. I love spring because we can open our windows and let the fresh air in, the snow is gone, and everything is green again.

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Thank you for your visits and feedback! :<)

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