#8. L. Tremain Original Butter Bell Giveaway and Review

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Momma Told Me: Some of the simplest innovations work the best.

As technology creates a continually growing gap between generations, nearly everyone can recall at minimum one item form their childhood that is now considered a relic. Sadly, for my children this will likely be cassettes, or worse, CDs. In an effort to make money selling complicated mechanical devices, we don't really need, many companies pitch flashy improvements and models we never knew we needed in the first place. Take, for instance, the French Butter Dish (or butter crock to some). I remember being young, enough to have blonde curls, and peering over my grandma's massive dining table. I'd curiously study the round pottery chamber, imagining the wonders that could be kept inside. One festive gathering I learned this pretty pot of sorts was actually a butter dish. Naturally, I was perplexed. My NES spiked mind couldn't comprehend why anyone would keep their butter on the table when they had a perfectly good fridge.

What the heck is a French Butter Dish? If the concept is new to you, you're in for a treat. Thought to have originated in 19th Century Vallarius, France, the French Butter dish was created out of necessity. Typically handcrafted in 2 pieces, the bottom barrel is filled partially with water, while the lid (or crock) was filled with soft butter/margarine. Once the lid was placed into the bottom barrel the water created an air tight seal against the chambered butter. This enabled users to store their butter freely on tables and in mess halls for use throughout each meal of the day. Only in the late 1970s did the French Butter Dish catch on in America. For a while, it was nearly a craze, while today primarily loyal users continue to keep them in possession. Don't let that fool you, those who have owned a butter crock border on fanatical, they love the convenience, texture, and beauty of these simple devices.

While L. Tremain does not hold the patent on the first butter bell crock, they do hold the bragging rights for first modern Retail Distribution- as the 'Original Butter Bell'. Founded in 1996, this relatively young ceramics company is known for it's quality, traditional French, butter bell crock. In fact made from stoneware, these crocks are sold in trendy modern and vintage finishes, within a range of sizes. Their gift worthy spreader sets make for a wonderful house warming or holiday gift and family heirloom.

I received an authentic L. Tremain Original Butter Bell for review here on Momma Told Me and I knew immediately this would be a timeless dining table staple. I rushed to stock it with fresh butter and delighted in the feel of it's cool ceramic glaze. I love the convenience of having soft spreadable butter on hand at every meal, maybe even too much (I think I use butter more often now!) My Butter Bell is displayed proudly on our kitchen counter, and makes it's way to the dining table when we entertain. Time after time guests comment on the modern design and intriguing concept which, they're always amazed to find, works so well. I love the range of pricing and sizes, for large families to single diners- and modern finishes. It's easy to see why L. Tremain is recognized globally for their French Butter Dishes! Currently, the company is running a But 2 Get 1 FREE promotion for Mother's Day, so hurry on over today!

What Daughter Says: Once you try a butter crock, you'll never go back. Your fridge won't know the difference, but you will.

One Momma Told Me follower will win their choice of L. Tremain Butter Bell Crock!

---Check out ALL of the Blog POP! Spring Fling Giveaways here!---

Mandatory Entry: You must be a Momma Told Me follower, then visit L. Tremain, and tell me which Butter Bell you'd pick if you won!

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Giveaway begins May 5, 2011 and ends 12:01 AM PST on May 15, 2011. Winner will be notified via email, and posted here. Entries valid within US. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be drawn. Prize will be transferred via sponsor.

As required by the FTC: I received no monetary compensation for this review. I received a product sample for the purpose of my review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.