I my dilemma is similar.

I would like to display my featured products on the front page with some description with prices and buy now buttons (links to the product page).
I would like the featured products to be displayed in rotation in 2 columns on the front page.

I made my own version in html and placed in my admin main page.

I was wondering if zen cart already had a feature like this in the admin somewhere.
It would be nice to see the featured items in rotation at the front top.

advice is appreciated.
Here is the site:
www.gelcandlecompany.com