Sealy Cool Gel Crib Mattress Review & $100 Buy Buy Baby Giveawa

~Sponsored Post~

I was provided the below mentioned product in exchange for my honest review. 

We were recently sent the new Sealy Select 2-Cool 2-Stage Crib Mattress to try out and after several nights of using it I must say we love it. I actually tried it in Hudson's (9 month old) crib as well as Emma's (2 year old) toddler bed. It worked equally well in both beds. And they both slept great, one of Momma's biggest request with a mattress. 

I love so many things about this mattress. 

I LOVE that Sealy is a brand that you can trust. They are the leading crib mattress brand in the USA.

My children are my world and I only want things I can trust for them. Whether it is their car seat, mattress, etc. 

I LOVE that I can use it not only with Hudson (my 9 month old) but with Emma (age 2) as well. That is because it is double sided; it has a firmer infant side as well as a softer toddler side. The infant side is made from high-density soy enhanced foam. The toddler side is made from a natural soy-enhanced cooling gel plus a CoolTex fabric cover.

There's nothing like getting your money's worth: a mattress that will go from day 1 to age 3 or 4 (toddler bed).  A mattress that you can trust to help protect your infant from SID's and that will carry them through the next several years. 

I LOVE that it is GreenGuard Certified which means it is certified for indoor air quality & low chemical emissions. We aren't totally green in our household but I do like to reduce the amount of chemicals my children are exposed to. I try my best to choose what is best for my children. 

I LOVE that the toddler side offers a cooling effect which aids in a better night's sleep. Because lets face it when our toddler sleeps better so do we. 

I LOVE the square edges which make it fit so nicely in my crib as well as my toddler bed. I found this to be unlike some of the other mattresses that I have tried & bought. Most of the others had curved edges which left gaps between the crib and mattress. 

After reviewing the mattress in both crib & toddler bed I was unable to find anything that I didn't like about it. 

Features:

Cool-Tex™ waterproof and stain-resistant fabric cover for luxury and comfort

Firmer infant side made from high-density soy-enhanced foam with secure edges

A natural soy-enhanced cool gel layer added for ultimate cushion and comfort for toddlers

Cool gel is CertiPUR-US® certified and instantly recovers for safety and offers a cooling effect to aid in a better night's sleep

GREENGUARD® Gold: This entire mattress is GREENGUARD® Gold certified for indoor air quality and low chemical emissions to help create a healthier sleeping environment for your baby

• Square corner design for snug fit in US standard size cribs
• Mattress also fits toddler bed frames
• Lifetime warranty on all workmanship and materials
• Meets or exceeds all flammability, lead, phthalate and CPSIA testing and does not contain toxic fire retardants
• Proudly made in the USA

Specifications:

• Mattress measures 51.63 x 27.25 x 5.5 inches and fits both USA standard size cribs and toddler beds.

Please ignore my southern accent & my kids in the background but here my video review goes

And just as a reminder the safest place for your baby to sleep is on their back, alone in a safe crib. Here is the recommended list of what should and should not be in your child's crib:

Here's what your baby needs:

ASTM Certified Crib

Firm Crib Mattress

Secure Fitting Crib Mattress Pad

Fitted Sheet

Swaddle

Things to avoid:

Crib bumpers

Blankets or Comforters

Pillows

Stuffed Animals or Toys

Baby Monitors with Cords

Sleep Positioners or Wedges

Buy It at Buy Buy Baby for $229.00

And even though I'm not giving one away , Kolcraft has been so generous to offer

ONE LUCKY FOLLOWER

the chance 

TO WIN

A $100 GIFT CARD TO BUY BUY BABY

How awesome is that?!?

The lucky winner can apply it towards their purchase!

WANNA WIN?

**Please use the Rafflecopter Form below to Enter!!**
**Open to US Residents ONLY**

Kolcraft Cuddle N' Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper Review and GIVEAWAY

~Sponsored Post~

I was provide the below mentioned product in exchange for my honest review. 

We all know it but newborns get up during the night A LOT, and even though Hudson isn't truly a newborn anymore at 2 months old he still gets up (sometimes). So, instead of hiking upstairs to his room every time he cries he sleeps in our room. In fact the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends room sharing to reduce the risk of SIDS.  And well, our room is a tad cramped with our king bed, dressers, etc.  Not really enough room for a crib So, we opt to use a bassinet in the beginning. Not to mention the fact that a crib swallows them whole in the beginning or even at 2 months old for that matter.

As a Kolcraft mom we recently had the opportunity to try out their
Kolcraft Cuddle N' Care 2-in-1 Bassinet & Incline Sleeper
A mouth full but honestly it's so much more than a bassinet. With all of it's features it deserves a title like that.

Features:

• Incline sleeper attachment for babies that need their head elevated

Like many infants Hudson has reflux and wakes up coughing & gagging at times. So, to us the incline sleeper has came in very handy. It has allowed not only him to sleep better but us as well.

• Incline sleeper attachment removes easily for use as a traditional bassinet

The incline sleeper simply snaps into place which makes it easy to transition back & forth. Within the next week or so I plan on transitioning him to the regular bassinet so he will hopefully be able to transition to his crib easier. 

• Light vibes electronic unit includes classic music, nature sounds, vibrations & soft-glow check light

I absolutely love this feature not only for the music & sounds but for the light. LOVE not having to turn on the overhead light to just check on him. I'm sure my husband appreciates this feature as well,

• Easily converts to a rocking bassinet
• Locking casters for room to room mobility
• Canopy mobile with three hanging soft toys

• Large storage basket for all baby's needs

Most definitely another important feature. I can not even count the number of times I've had to go searching for a change of outfit or blanket during the night due to an "accident". Thankfully, I'm able to place everything I need down below for easy access.

We're definitely loving our bassinet here at Houghton Happening's. It is the perfect height for looking into from our bed. Our favorite features are the incline sleeper & the soft glow check light. The only thing that I personally feel could be improved is that Hudson tends to slide down on the incline sleeper. It does come with straps to buckle him in, however we still swaddle for nighttime so at this time I'm unable to buckle him.

I also must add that it was super easy to put together. In fact I did it completely by myself within 15 minutes. Now that's saying something for this "mommy brain" and not to mention that I had 3 little ones "helping" me.

I also love the gender neutral fabric. A purchase that can be used with each child whether boy or girl.

You can purchase the Kolcraft Cuddle N' Care 2-in-1 bassinet & incline sleeper at many online distributors as well as Buy Buy Baby Stores and Walmart for $159.99 

Kolcraft would also like to give

ONE LUCKY FOLLOWER

the chance

TO WIN

A KOLCRAFT CUDDLE N' CARE 2-IN-1 BASSINET

& INCLINE SLEEPER

WANNA WIN?

**Open to US Residents ONLY**

*Please use rafflecopter form below*

Sesame Street Elmo Fruits & Fun Booster Seat Review & {GIVEAWAY}

~Sponsored Post~

Several months ago we put our high chair up. Emma pretty much refused to sit in it so it was just taking up space. At only two (going on 13) she isn't quite big enough to sit properly at the kitchen table. So, we were thrilled at the chance to try out the new Kolcraft Sesame Street Booster Seat 

Emma & Maddox couldn't wait to try it out. In fact they both fight over who is going to sit in it. I think purchasing a second one is in our near future. I also love the fact that Hudson can sit in it starting around 6 months. So nice to not have a bulky high chair taking up space. And I LOVE the fact that it easily folds for travel (and storage). So, we will be able to take it along on vacations.

And even though my older two don't necessarily need it, a 3 position adjustable tray is included. The seat is the perfect size because not only does it fit my 2 year old, it also fits perfectly for my almost 4 year old (fits up to 45 lbs).

It also has a 3 point restraint to help keep my wiggly kids safe.

Another great feature that I found was that it is height adjustable to get your baby/child to the height of the dinner table.

And because easiness is a mother's best friend, the back & seat can easily be wiped off.

The only con that I could find was that it barely fit around our chairs. It did fit but I would think that there would be some chairs that it wouldn't work for because I don't feel that ours are overly large. 

Buy It: Walmart for $26.88

And now they would like to offer

ONE LUCKY FOLLOWER

the chance

TO WIN

A Sesame Street Elmo Fruits & Fun Booster Seat 

**Please use the Rafflecopter Form below to Enter!!**
Open to US Residents ONLY

Wow...65 Years!! Contests & More

Wow, can you believe
Kolcraft is celebrating 65 Years??

Holy jeepers. They're the ONLY baby gear & crib mattress manufacturer that has been family owned & that has never "changed hands". Now that's something to write home about!

And to kick off the celebration  they're hosting 6 months of prizes.

How amazing is that?

They have launched a special website just for the celebration, so HEAD OVER to check out the special 65th anniversary site.

Every 6 weeks they will launch a new sweepstakes!

And June is being kicked off with some pretty amazing ones if I do have to say so myself.
They're kicking it off with the Jeep Family on the Go package. But wait there's more they have baby & family prizes from Sesame Street, Contours, Kolcraft & Sealy. 

You don't want to miss out:

The Grand Prize: Jeep 5-piece luggage set, Jeep Liberty stroller & Jeep 2-in-1 Sport Baby Carrier
(Value $318.98)

First Place: Jeep Liberty Limited Stroller (Value $199.99)

Second Place: Jeep 2-in-1 Sport Baby Carrier & Jeep Travel Anywhere Sport 2-in-1 Booster Seat & Everyday Bag.
(Value $79.98)

Third Place: Jeep 2-in-1 Sport Baby Carrier
(Value $39.99)

Head on over to their sweepstakes page.
And just remember check them out every 6 weeks!

Kolcraft Contours Optima Tandem Stroller Review & SILENT AUCTION- CLOSED~~

Congratulations to JD for being the highest bidder as of 11:59 PM EST.

There's no denying the fact that you need a double stroller with Two Under 2 or twins or even just 2 little ones.  But the only problem is, which one do you get?  And to top it off many stores don't even stock them so you're forced to order online.  But how do you know whether you will like it or not, especially when you've never seen it in person? 

Read reviews of course!

And I'm bringing you just that!

As a Kolcraft Mom I recently received the opportunity to review the newest & most amazing double stroller from Kolcraft....The Contours Optima Tandem Stroller in Berkley print. I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was; I was simply like a child on Christmas Day.

Now I'm sure that most of you that have researched double strollers have seen the older Kolcraft tandem models. 

So what's so great about the new one???

Well, it is MUCH LIGHTER at ONLY 37 lbs. 

So, I realize that seems fairly heavy but we are talking a double stroller here.

And now I'm pleased to introduce you to the Contours Optima Tandem Stroller

& all of it's amazing features

First off, I feel that it's very important how well a stroller folds. 

Obviously a double stroller is not going to be as compact but I do have to say I was simply amazed at just how well it folded. 

Much smaller than I would have ever imagined. 

The only downfall to folding is that to make the most compact fold you must remove one of the 2 seats (which is super easy).  It is also recommended that you turn the remaining seat towards you & turn the cup holder in. (once again super easy)
Not a problem but just something extra to remember.

I just love the new Berkley pattern. So fashionable & cute.
Which I must say goes great with Emma's car seat.

Time for a few great features:

• The footrest is easily adjusted with just a push of a button which makes it perfect for any size of child

• A generous size parent tray with room for 2 drinks & an area for keys or what not.

• Removable Front Bars

One thing that I worried about prior to receiving it was the front bars.

I could potentially see them getting in the way with a bigger child.

But they are easily removable so they're no problem at all.

And one of my favorite features...

• the huge basket underneath. 

Now, if I'm going to push a suburban of a stroller around I want it to have a big basket...and the Contours Optima has just that.

And the greatest of features is that there are

6 Seating Options

Yes, seriously 6 different options.

The seats are easily removed with the push of a button & snap right back in place with no problem at all.

• Can accommodate just 1 infant/child which allows plenty of extras storage

(A very nice feature being you may not always have both children;

& who wants to carry multiple strollers in your car)



Check out that storage space



•  Both Facing Forward 
• Facing Away from Each Other (Front seat was reclined  for infant)

• Facing Each Other

• And the super awesome thing is that Infant Seat can fit & fits my Chicco Key Fit with no problem

(holds many infant seats, see website for complete list)

One infant car seat attachment included; may purchase additional piece

• Facing Parent

And of course the "real test"

The stroller amazingly fits both my toddler as well as my infant perfectly.

With the adjustable footrest Maddox's feet rest perfectly.  And with the reclining back Emma is able to lay back & be comfortable.

And you ask, "how well did it push"? 

It pushes very easily. 

I was completely in awe of just how easy it went. In fact it didn't seem any harder to push than my single stroller.

See how well he fits.
(For size comparison he's roughly 35 inches & 26 lbs)

He absolutely loves it.  In fact when I had in the house setup he would try to crawl in it to just watch TV.

It's so great having a stroller that fits both of them!

And I think Emma gave her seal of approval.  Not long & she was fast asleep.


Such a PERFECT STROLLER

Buy It:
You can purchase the Kolcraft Contours Optima Tandem Stroller for $289.99 at Babies R' Us

And now you have the chance to bid on one right here at Houghton Happening's.  Kolcraft is sponsoring a silent auction...and one lucky reader has the chance to get the new Contours Optima Tandem Stroller at a fraction of the price.

 

**SILENT AUCTION for Charitable Cause**

The highest bidder of this auction will win a Kolcraft's Optima Tandem Stroller ($299.99 Value).  All proceeds from this silent auction will be paid to K.I.D.S. (Kids In Distressed Situations)

So not only do you have the chance to bid on an AMAZING STROLLER but the chance to make a difference by supporting an awesome charity.  Plus they're helping providing relief to the victims of the storms & tornadoes that have recently affected the South.  So, here's your chance to make a difference & get an amazing stroller at the same time.

How it works:  Bidding starts at $5 and will increase in increments of $5.  To bid, simply leave a comment, making sure your bid is $5 or more above the previous highest bidder.  The highest bidder will then be contacted via email and will have 72 hours to reply & make their donation to K.I.D.S. (electronic receipt is required as proof).  If the highest bidder does not claim the prize or pay the charity, the next highest bidder will be selected as the winner.

**Because several people have asked...There is NO SHIPPING COST. The highest bidder simply makes their donation to K.I.D.S and Kolcraft will ship out the stroller**

**Auction closes June 13, 2011 @ 11:59 PM EST. Open to US Residents 18 Years Old or Older Only.**

I was given the above mentioned product(s) for my review & host of this giveaway.

I was in no other way compensated.The product itself didn't persuade my personal beliefs or views.

I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The views & opinions are purely my own

Wally is Here!!!

Remember when I gave you THIS little sneak peak???

Well, the time has officially came that I can spill it all & let me just say I'm beyond excited.

Kolcraft has

once again came up with something new & wonderful!

And I'm super excited to tell you first hand what all the buzz is about.

We were very lucky to try out our very own Wally the Wonderbug Activity Center

and even though Maddox is a bit too big for it he gave his seal of approval

for his sister Emma (expected end of February).

With the vibrant primary colors it was enough to catch my toddler's eye...

and even stand & play for a bit.  Which says a lot because he's always on the run.

I often find him standing & playing with Wally & all his toys.



If Wally can entertain my 17 month old he can certainly entertain your infant.
I can't wait for him to entertain Emma.

I only wish this was out when Maddox was younger.

With so many entertainers on the market it's so hard to choose but with

Wally having so many great features he's not just your ordinary entertainer:

• Variety of developmental toys & activities to entertain baby
• Wonderworm includes lights, music & sounds
• Seat bounces & spins 360* for access to ALL toys
• Height adjustable for growing babies
• Dissembles easily for travel & storage (this is very important for us, because who wants to go on a week vacation without toys for their kids)
• Machine washable seat pad (something else VERY important)

Wally is designed to offer hours of discovery & fun while being educational. Wally helps teach basic cause & effect.  Which is all very important in the development of your baby.
I know I want the best for my children, so I'm sure you do as well!

He's sure to be a big hit in your house for your little 'bugs'.

Be sure to keep your eye out because Wally & Wendy (his female counterpart)

are in the process of hitting shelves very soon at
Target, Walmart, Amazon & specialty stores. 

Ssshh, It's a SECRET

Have you ever had that really good secret that you couldn't let out of the bag??

Well, I have a really good one & I'm so excited I can finally let the bug out of the bag (well partially). Perhaps you've heard some of the buzz already coming from Kolcraft... or perhaps you've seen Wally Wonderbug buzzing around??

That cute little buggy creature...

who's becoming Kolcraft's newest biggest hit...their NEW ENTERTAINER.  He's sure to be the BIGGEST BUZZ around!  Plus, he won't be your "normal" entertainer... he'll help teach basic cause & effect relationships. He's sure to grow with your child. And did I mention he LOVES to travel along with you & your family?

And because Wally is going to be such a big hit he'll have his very own micro-site complete with games for your kids including a Flat Wally page!

As I mentioned I can only let the bug out of the bag partially...at least until January (so stay tuned). You're not going to want to miss Wally & his female counterpart (Wanda).  Until then keep your eye out for the Wally Wonderbug Contest & be sure to keep your eye on their Facebook page because you're not gonna want to miss it.