I have no personal experience with Samsung but I found the following links for you to read: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung+-+4.3+Cu.+Ft.+13-Cycle+Steam+Washer+-+Stainless+Platinum/9873296.p?id=1218187077637&skuId=9873296#tabbed-customerreviews http://www.samsung.com/us/appliances/washers-dryers/WF520ABP/XAA-reviews (of course this is the manufacturers website but there are some 2 star reviews - reviews are listed highest to lowest - you can change the viewing if you like) http://www.samsung.com/ca/consumer/home-appliances/washers-dryers/washers/WF520ABP/XAC/index.idx?pagetype=prd_detail&tab=reviews&reviewtype=consumer_reviews Good luck! FWIW, this model is a consumer reports recommended one. Although, CR does point out that the powerfoam doesn't do much so you may be able to save some $$ going with a lower model?

lukkiirish - I do like that strip (with celery) and forgot to mention Ryegrass as being a favorite (Wheatgrass, as well). I wonder if the Celery might be too light since there is a lot of natural light in the room. There is a large bay window in the breakfast area and also another window over the sink and those windows face west. Celery might get washed out with that much light. What do you think of Shagreen or Ryegrass? Yes, I do want the kitchen to appear bright and cheerful - a inviting place where the family would gather with each other and with friends. There is an island in the kitchen which provides a nice spot for drinks, snacks and conversation (also for my DH to deposit all his papers and magazines on - grrr.) Maybe it's the muted colors that don't photograph well according to the realtors. I just want to put my finger on why some colors photograph well and others do not and choose accordingly.

What grocery store is selling gift cards at a discount? If they are local, I'd get some for the college students. I haven't hit REI yet but I did note they were having a big sale. Hiking poles are a great idea! Northface is always a hit here at Christmas but I do an annual trek with my sister to the outlet stores. We don't always find something but we enjoy the time together!

That was smart Ann. By the time I decided on Francis Dubreuil it was too late , I have wanted that rose for ten years !!! It was all I could do to decide on a dog winter coat before midnight on Cyber Monday. Amara is watching for the UPS truck, she'll be glad I got the coat deal instead of a rose, although she does like to smell flowers. As much as I'd love to drown my sorrows in a hefty credit purchase, I'm going to wait until more of Heirloom's roses are back in stock. I saw a video of Amazing Grace, it's amazing alright. Last year out of the blue HR emailed me about a one day deal with free shipping and I bought my Spirit of Freedom. I hope they will send more emails for the ones I asked to be notified . They know how to catch a fish if they dangle the worm at the right time- this fish anyway.