outdoor « The Bragging Mommy

Dealing with Allergies…So Glad There is Help!

I wrote this post while participating in a blog tour conducted by Clever Girls Collective on behalf of Children’s Claritin®. I have been compensated for my time commitment to the program.

Oh allergies, such a joy…NOT! With all the warm weather we get so excited to get outside and play. We forget about Allergies. Darn those allergies! My poor little guy gets allergies so bad that he can’t even function daily. Runny and stuffy nose, headache, itchy eyes. It all equals no fun for him When I see him so miserable I just feel so bad. I wish I could just take his allergies from him so he doesn’t have to suffer one more minute. I really would if I could, but I can’t. He loves to be outside so there is no way we can keep him in. All I can say is that I am so grateful that there is great allergy medicine for kids available. Without it we would be stuck inside wishing for allergy season to end, and dealing with a miserable child. I have found that it is always good to plan ahead and give him his allergy medicine before we leave to go out, that way it has kicked in long before we are out in the elements and all his symptoms have begun. But most days we are outside a lot so he has to take it everyday regardless. Allergies are definitely not a fun thing to have to deal with, I am just so glad that there are great products to help ease the discomforts and make playing outside more enjoyable for my little guy!

Clear to Enjoy Spring: The Allergy Guide for Moms and Kids

View more presentations from Children’s Claritin

For more tips on relieving allergies, visit www.Facebook.com/Claritin. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

Heidi June 14, 2011 child, outdoor

Brag Worthy Summer ~ Wind and Weather Review and $50 GC Giveaway [CLOSED]

It’s always great to find new stores that carry items I haven’t seen anywhere else! Wind and Weather is one of those stores. I love all of their outdoor accessories that are perfect for sprucing up a backyard for summertime! True to their name, they have a huge selection of products for the outdoor enthusiast.

“We have a passion for the weather. We love to study clouds, gauge winds, count raindrops, predict storms, and track every single life-affecting detail. This boundless enthusiasm for all things meteorological began brewing in 1976 when Wind & Weather opened its doors on the beautiful north coast of California. Over three decades later, we’re drenched in industry knowledge and experience, and recognized as a world-trusted supplier of weather instruments.

weather instruments that includes top brands like Maximum, Davis, Rainwise, Oregon Scientific, and Lacrosse. We also offer a fine selection of field-approved supplies like binoculars, watches, radios, and emergency-support tools.”

Students, gardeners, bird watchers, sports enthusiasts, pilots, hobbyists, and pros have unique demands for weather data. We specialize in satisfying each degree of curiosity with a multi-level collection of

Wind & Weather sent me their Stainless Steel Tub for all my partying needs Winking smile .

“This roomy, rustproof, and watertight tub will give an air of prestige to the most pedestrian of contents as they sit atop a powder-coated, hand-forged wrought iron folding stand. Holds as many as 10 bottles of wine or champagne.”

I love my new Stainless Steel Tub and used it for a party I just hosted. It fit several soda cans & water bottles (along with ice) in it & was great in keeping them cold throughout the whole night. The tub is big enough to hold a lot, but small enough that it could fit on a table without taking up too much space. And it looks great too!

Wind & Weather has so many fun things! They have weathervanes, pro weather stations, kitchen accessories, home décor, landscaping supplies, and more! Some of my favorite items were from their ‘outdoor seating’ category. If I had a back porch, I would definitely need the cute chair swing that they have! My girls would love it and I can imagine myself relaxing in it every night!

“Distinctive garden décor and artful objects for the home are also part of our expertise. Our exclusive collection of weathervanes, cupolas, armillary spheres, mailboxes, and sculpture for the yard and garden has expanded with imaginative accessories for the home. We shop the globe to provide the world’s most exquisite objects with a focus on unique, handcrafted art. Each selection represents our unwavering high standards for quality and performance.”

The Wind & Weather website has categories & sub-categories to help searching for the perfect product easier. You know a store has a huge selection when they have ‘sub-categories’. I love having so many options!!

Things that are BRAG WORTHY:

HUGE selection
Great place to find the perfect gift
Something for every space
Unique items
They even have toys!
Items to fit every budget
Satisfaction guaranteed

Wind & Weather gets BRAGGING RIGHTS!!

Wind & Weather is generously giving away a $50 GC to one lucky reader!!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Wind and Weather and tell us what you would buy with your GC if you win.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted

2 entries- Like Wind and Weather on Facebook.
2 entries-Sign up to receive emails from Wind & Weather (scroll down to bottom of page)
5 entries- Enter to win a Family Vacation here. Tell us the name you used to enter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway including a link to this post, & @braggingmommy in your tweet.\

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until June 27th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received a Stainless Steel Tub from Wind and Weather for the purpose of this review

Kim June 13, 2011 dad, giveaway, home, outdoor, review

Organizing Parties Efficiently

A lot of people underestimate how stressful it is to throw a successful party. People think, because parties by definition are supposed to be fun events, that putting one together is just fun and games. But to anyone that has ever organized his or her own event, successful parties require a lot of attention to detail and a kind of discipline that not everyone could fully understand. The type of guests, the type of event, the intention of the party, they all contribute to the choice of food, music, and of course, seating arrangements and location of the party. With so many things to take into consideration, it’s easy to falter at some point or another.

Eliminate one of these problems baby going to www.bandbpartyofnj.com, a site that offers the best tent rentals , chairs, tables and other party paraphernalia. Doing it online makes things far easier and less time consuming. Just visit the site and pick out the most appropriate equipment for your party and have it delivered to the location. B and B has everything you might need, and it all comes at the convenience of a few clicks of the mouse!

*This is a sponsored post.

Heidi January 27, 2011 organization, outdoor, party

Aqua-Leisure Uncle Bob’s 68” Double Snow Tube Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

I’m sure you’ve seen Aqua Leisure products when searching for your summer entertainment needs. They have so many great flotation and sun protection products. But probably something you didn’t realize they make is winter toys, like snow tubes. Yep, the fun doesn’t have to stop just because the cold has set in.

I had the chance to review the Uncle Bob’s 68” Double Snow Tube from Aqua Leisure. Let me start by saying that we get a lot of snow where we live. We also LOVE going out sledding and playing in the snow. So this review was perfect for us. I was actually surprised that the box it came in isn’t too big which is nice. Then we inflated it and realized it is the perfect size for 2 people. It is shaped like a figure 8. So then all we had to do was take it out and test it in the snow. This tube is Super Fun! We had a blast sliding down the hill on this tube. It is especially perfect for Bug since he usually doesn’t like to ride alone. With this double snow tube we can ride together comfortably. It is made of a thick material and seems like it will last through many winters.

Of all the inflatable Snow tubes I’ve tried out, this one is by far the most fun! If you live where the snow falls you are gonna want to have one of these!

You can see a list of where to buy Aqua-Leisure products so you can purchase these fun products!

Uncle Bob’s 68” Double Snow Tube gets Bragging Rights!

Aqua-Leisure is generously giving away an Uncle Bob’s 68″ Double Snow Tube to one lucky Bragging Mommy Reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Aqua Leisure and tell us another item they have that you would like for your kids.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

4 entries- Like Aqua Leisure on Facebook.
3 entries for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
5 entries- Put The Bragging Mommy Button on your Blog.
1 entry- Tell us who you will give this to if you win, or if you’ll keep it for yourself!
2 entries- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook
2 entries- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway, be sure to include a link to this post in your tweet.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until February 2 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received an Uncle Bob’s 68″ Double Snow Tube from Aqua-Leisure to review.

Heidi January 19, 2011 child, family, giveaway, outdoor, review, teen, toy

{Brag Worthy Christmas} Radio Flyer Slider Rider Review

“The Radio Flyer Slider Rider™ will entertain your child for hours! This sturdy, steel-frame tricycle has rear caster wheels that spin-out for endless fun.”

I have to start out by saying this is the most fun tricycle I have ever seen! You have to watch this video to see what I am talking about…

Doesn’t the spin out action look so fun??!! Well it is! 3 year old Bug has a blast riding on this tricycle. Up until now we haven’t been able to find a tricycle that he could peddle. It took him a few days but he finally figured it out. The seat is adjustable so it grows with your child. This puts bug closer to the peddles so I think that is why he is finally able to do it. He hasn’t quite figured out how to spin out by himself, but I know that will come with time and practice. In the mean time mommy and daddy help him to spin out. Each time he does he just giggles and giggles. He loves it! sr2

Radio Flyer suggest the age range for this tricycle is 2-5 years, but I would lean more towards 3-6 years depending on your child. It can hold a child up to 50 lbs.

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Spin-out action with rear caster wheels
Easily adjustable frame grows with your child
Contoured seat supports child while riding
Durable steel frame for lasting use
Makes a super fun Christmas gift!

The Radio Flyer Slider Rider gets Bragging Rights!

*I received the Slider Rider from Radio Flyer for this review.

Heidi November 17, 2010 child, christmas, outdoor, toddler, toy

{Brag Worthy Christmas} Prince Lionheart Chop Balance Bike Review

“Prince Lionheart’s chop balance BIKE™ will teach your child how to balance – a crucial skill necessary before transitioning to a two-wheeled pedal bicycle. Your child’s sense of independence and self-confidence will become apparent as they learn to balance and steer at their own pace: first walking, then gliding!”

The Prince Lionheart Chop Balance Bike is one of the better ideas I’ve seen in a long time. When kids first start to use ride on toys, they aren’t able to pedal, which was definitely the case for Harrison. I would have never thought to get him a bike of any kind, but the Chop Balance Bike is perfect! It teaches kids balance, coordination, and confidence! Everything they need before they learn how to ride a real bike. The bike is so well-made. Very high quality materials. I know it will last through his younger brother, and possibly a few more kids! And isn’t it beautiful? It’s just a gorgeous piece of craftsmanship. This is definitely a great tool to use when your child is in transition to using a bike. How happy would your child be if they opened this on Christmas morning? The Prince Lionheart Chop Balance Bike would make a great Christmas gift for your little one!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Teaches balance, coordination and confidence
Solid rubber handgrips
You can adjust the height
Birch frame
Easy for young children to use
Very beautiful bike
Makes an excellent Christmas gift!

I think the Chop Balance Bike would make an awesome Christmas gift for your little one! Visit Prince Lionheart to check out their Chop Balance Bike, and so many more awesome products!

Prince Lionheart Chop Balance Bike gets Bragging Rights!

*I received a Chop Balance Bike for the purpose of this review

Joanna November 3, 2010 child, christmas, outdoor, review, toy

SunSational Style Swimwear Review and Kid’s UV Protective Snow Goggles Giveaway (2 winners!) [CLOSED]

When I was younger, I never worried about the damage that the sun could do to my skin. Now that I am getting older (and you’ll never know how old Winking smile ), I am starting to see some of the effects that were caused by my neglect. My family LOVES playing outside, and I want to teach my kids how important it is to protect them from harmful UV rays. Hopefully they will grow up and thank ME for their beautiful skin!

Why UV Sun Protective Clothes?

Sun protective clothing and swimwear is more reliable than sunscreen because there are no “missed spots”
Sun protective swimwear & clothing doesn’t wash or sweat off
Sun protective swimwear and clothing are quick and convenient so you can head outdoors right away
Sun protective clothing is more cost effective in the long run
Best of all, it’s stylish, quick-drying, lightweight and comfortable!

Sunsational Style provides several simple & effective products that will help you protect yourself and your family from UV sun exposure.

For infants & kids, check out their UV sun protection infant clothes, sun protective swimsuits, sun hats and NEW baby blanket sun covers. All are perfect for your baby’s delicate skin! They have a great selection for your kids’ sun protection!

If you are looking for something for yourself, Sunsational Style offers several options such as driving sleeves, rashguard shirts, and swimwear. Or try out their Chemical Free, Natural SunSavvy Skincare Kit. “It’s the perfect skincare and sunscreen kit for anyone who loves to be outdoors in the sun!”

I received a UV protective swimsuit from Sunsational Style for my daughter. We both love it! Besides being really adorable, it blocks 98% of harmful rays and that is even more important!!! It’s easy to see that this suit is going to hold up through several summers. The material is great & the shorts are lined which is a MUST! My little girl can’t wait for next summer to come around so she can wear it! I love that the swimsuit is shorts & a short sleeve top. My daughter likes wearing her swimsuit even when she isn’t swimming, so I feel okay about letting her wear this around the neighborhood because it isn’t skimpy.

Now I know that winter is fast approaching (BOO Crying face ) and the swimming gear is getting put away. But don’t worry….Sunsational Style has the protection you need for all your winter activities as well!!!

Sunscreen is a must ALL YEAR LONG, and they have several to choose from including one that is chemical free and natural. I love that they have that option!!! They also carry sunglasses, ski & snow goggles, and hats. Whatever you need in sun protection, they have it!

PS. I am secretly dying to try their spearmint Sun Essence SPF 15 Lip Topping. Doesn’t it sound DELICIOUS??

THINGS THAT ARE BRAG WORTHY:

-Their clothing offers maximum sun protection
-They carry products for the whole family; men women & children!
Their swimwear is stylish & Modest!!!!!!
They offer Hats, sunglasses, & other accessories for complete sun protection during the summer or winter

Right now you can get Get 10% off at SUNSATIONAL STYLE, use code:10off at checkout.

SUNSATIONAL STYLE GETS BRAGGING RIGHTS!!!!

Sunsational Style is generously giving away a pair of Kids UV protective Snow Goggles to 2 lucky readers!!!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit SunsationalStyle and tell us a product that you would love to have for WINTER.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

2 entries- “Like” Sunsational Style on Facebook
2 entries- Subscribe to the Sunsational Style blog
2 entries- Sign up for Sunsational Style’s Newsletter (left hand side)
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway using @braggingmommy.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until October 29^th @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

*I received a Swimsuit from SunSational Style for this review

Kim October 22, 2010 baby, boy, child, clothing, dad, family, girl, giveaway, mommy, outdoor, review, safety, skincare, teen, toddler, tween

E-Z Bat Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

E-Z BAT TURNS EVERY KID INTO A SLUGGER LIKE BABE RUTH

Kids Know That When It’s Time To Get Up & Play, Monkey Business Sports Is A Home Run!

“E-Z Bat, the brainchild of a innovative grandfather who wanted his grandson to be able to have the thrill of a home run with every swing, gets kids as young as 3 years old swinging and loving the all-American pastime. The better the swing, the further the ball sails so the E-Z Bat reinforces proper technique. Dads, uncles and grandpas will have a ball teaching Junior everything they know! The E-Z bat balls can either be flung right off the bat or pitched and hit the traditional way. The E-Z Bat is the first of many new active play toys expected to roll out this fall and pre-holiday season from Monkey Business Sports.”

ezbat1

I was excited to have a chance to review the New Monkey Business Sports E-Z Bat. The E-Z Bat is designed for ages 2-7, So bug being almost 3 is at the perfect age for this. He has been trying to hit a ball with a bat for a while now, but just ends up frustrated when he isn’t able to. When it arrived we took it over to the park to play and had so much fun! Bug loves his new bat, it makes it so easy for little ones to “play baseball”. No more frustration over not being able to hit the ball. With the E-Z bat the ball goes flying everytime! He just slides the foam ball onto the bat and then swings and watches it fly. This is such a cute product for kids. It makes a perfect gift for any child learning baseball! We have had a lot of fun playing with it, and have much more fun to come!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Makes “playing baseball” easy for little ones.
The balls are soft foam so no one gets hurt if it hits them.
Makes a fun gift!
Monkey Business Sports has a ton of fun products for kids of all ages!

Watch this video of the E-Z Bat in action.

Monkey Business Sports E-Z Bat gets Bragging Rights!

Monkey Business Sports is generously giving on Bragging Mommy Reader their choice of one of these products: an E-Z Bat, FoamStrike SwitchBlade or FoamStrike Pocket Shot.

View Full Album

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Please visit Monkey Business Sports and tell us another product they make that your kids would like.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

10 entries- Make a purchase from Monkey Business Sports.
3 entries- Like Monkey Business Sports on Facebook
3 entires- Favorite Monkey Business Sports on YouTube.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
2 entries for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
1 entry- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook.
5 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and monkeybusinesssports.com. Leave a link.
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway including @braggingmommy. Leave a link.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until September 30 @10:00 am. The winner will then be chosen by random.org, verified and the winner will be contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Disclaimer/Disclosure. You must be 18 years or older and live in the US ONLY enter.

*I was sent an E-Z Bat from Monkey Business Sports for my review.

Heidi September 23, 2010 boy, child, girl, giveaway, outdoor, review, toddler, toy

WeeRide Convertible Coach 2 in 1 Bicycle Trailer and Jogging Stroller Review

My husband is an avid biker, so when WeeRide said they would like to send us their Convertible Coach to review I jumped at the chance. Having this bike trailer means bug can spend time riding in the trailer enjoying the scenery while daddy is out riding his bike. Bug absolutely cannot get enough of riding in the trailer, he begs daily for his daddy to take him out for a ride. The Convertible Coach is a Bicycle Trailer and Jogging Stroller in one. I LOVE this feature, it is more bang for your buck. I have taken bug on a few jogs and I like how easy it is to jog with this jogging stroller. Best of all it can hold 2 children (with a total of 100 lbs. combined weight) so when baby number 2 comes along he or she can ride along with bug. And when I’m babysitting other little ones they can come along for the ride as well. My husband likes that it is easy to hook up and take off of his bike. I like that it has pockets inside for bug to use for things he brings along (sippy, toy of the day, etc…). It also folds flat so it can store easier in our garage when we aren’t using it. We love this new addition to our family! It is the perfect way to get out and enjoy the great outdoors with your little ones!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Converts from a bicycle trailer to a jogger stroller
Easy to use pivoting bike mount
Fully adjustable 5-point safety harnesses for 2 children up to 100 lbs. total
Waterproof, transparent zip-down canopy with bug screen and safety flag
Comfortable cockpit with inside pockets
Folds flat for easy storage

You can see the Convertible Coach and where to purchase at www.weeride.com!

WeeRide Convertible Coach gets Bragging Rights!

Heidi August 31, 2010 baby, child, family, outdoor, review, toddler

{Brag Worthy Summer!} Gather and Grille Playhouse Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

For a sizzlin’ good time, gather in this playhouse with an extended area for grilling & hanging out with friends!

I cannot even begin to tell you how excited my 2 year old bug got when I told him that this Step 2 Gather and Grille Playhouse was coming for us to review! What a perfect addition to summer playtime!

When it arrived we couldn’t believe how big the box was. (But what did I expect for a playhouse, LOL!) It was really nice because while me and my sister were putting the playhouse together bug had a blast playing in the huge box. Isn’t it funny how much kids love boxes?!

It didn’t take very long for me and my sister to put the outdoor playhouse together, I didn’t officially time it but I would guess it took around an hour. It is much easier if you have a drill (and is actually recommended) since you have to make the holes for the screws in the plastic yourself. But it doesn’t require a drill, I was able to use a Phillips head screw driver on one of the holes but it took me a lot longer on that one. It’s just faster with the drill. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to assemble, and the instructions have step by step pictures (which helps me a lot as I am a very visual person) making it really easy to know what to do next.

Once it was assembled I put the sticker decals on to complete the house. They are great stickers, even when I messed up putting it on and it got a wrinkle I was able to press it out. It is so stinkin’ cute! It even has a little decal fireplace and a clock above the mantel. There is a kitchen sink inside the house so kids can “prepare” food inside as well as grill on the barbeque outside. The doorbell actually rings (make sure you have 2 AAA batteries on hand since they aren’t included). Bug loves the doorbell, I knew he would since he is obsessed with ringing our doorbell. It is really cute having a “ding dong” door bell by the front door

This playhouse is a really good size for multiple children playing. It has a front door and a patio entrance so that eases the congestion. Kids can go in and out easily without getting in each other’s way. And since there is a patio with a bench seat and a grill the kids can play out there as well. It is perfect for family gatherings and play dates when a lot of kids play together, as well as for one child playing by himself like bug.

It comes with 5 additional accessories: a Spatula, Tongs, a Fork, & Ketchup and Mustard Bottles. I think it should have come with a couple food pieces as well but no problem for us since we have the Step 2 Fresh Market Kitchen (which we love as well). So we just brought out some hamburgers and hot dogs from bug’s play food stash and he was ready to get grilling. It is very fun how the grill opens and closes as well as has knobs to turn. The cutest thing was when daddy started grilling up some hamburgers for dinner bug ran over to his playhouse and started grilling as well.

Of all the great features of this playhouse the one I love the most is that it is made of a heavy duty plastic and I know it will last through all of my kids playing in it. And once they are grown it will be passed down to other kids. This one is made to last the test of time!

ph2

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Features an outdoor patio area with built-in “grill” and bench for two.

Encourages imaginative play.

Such a cute playhouse!

My 2 year old loves it!

Plenty of room for multiple kids to play.

2 entrances help to ease congestion when a bunch of kids are playing.

Built-in kitchen with sink provides additional space for cooking.

Decals make it feel like home.

Electronic doorbell (requires 2 “AAA” batteries, not included).

Dutch door and large windows.

Playhouse interior 54″ tall, great for older kids.

Includes 5 piece accessory set.

Featured on The Today Show!

Step 2 Gather and Grille Playhouse gets Bragging Rights!

Step 2 is generously giving away a Gather and Grille Playhouse to one VERY lucky Bragging Mommy reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Step 2 and let us know another toy that you would like for your kids.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- Sign up for the Step 2 Newsletter.
5 entries- If you had Our Brag Worthy Summer Event button on your blog before this event started. Leave a link.
1 entry- Like Step 2 on Facebook.
2 entries- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
3 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
2 entries- Subscribe in Reader.
1 entry- Tell us another item you would like to have from Step 2.
1 entry- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter
5 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post and step2.com. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Step 2 on Twitter and Tweet this giveaway. Leave a link. You can use this:

Win a Gather and Grille Playhouse from @thestep2company & @braggingmommy! (ends 7/13)

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 13 @10:00 am. The winner will then be chosen by random.org, verified and the winner will be contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Disclaimer/Disclosure. You must be 18 years or older and live in the US ONLY enter.

Heidi June 30, 2010 child, giveaway, outdoor, review, toddler, toy

{Brag Worthy Summer!} Hayneedle, Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro 4000 Barbeque Gas Grill Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

master_CG019

“When you’re ready to take grilling seriously, the Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro 4000 Gas Grill is waiting. This heavy-duty steel grill features a large primary cooking surface, warming rack, powerful side burner, dual stacks for even heating, and an integral thermometer to keep you in control of your cooking. If you’re ready to take your grilling to the next level, this gas grill will help you get there.”

I was so thrilled when Hayneedle wanted me to do a review and giveaway with them. They have over 200 specialty stores for home work and play. I have to admit I was mostly interested in the play part. Especially since it’s summer! Isn’t that what summer is about playing in the sun? So they said I could choose an item to review, and I had so much fun searching through their sites. They have so much to choose from, I have my eye on some of their patio furniture, and home decor items! Ultimately I chose the Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro 4000 Gas Grill from GrillsDirect.com because what is better than a BBQ to get friends and family together for summer fun?! Our old BBQ was 6 years old and barely standing, poor thing. So my husband was ecstatic to find out this was on it’s way to our house. When it arrived he was like a kid on Christmas and couldn’t wait to get it assembled. It was time consuming to put together, it took him a little over 2 hours to complete. But this beauty was worth every second. It is very well made, and looks so great out on our back patio. I recommend buying the grill cover to go with it to keep it looking as good as it does now regardless of weather. The thing my husband loves the most is how large the cooking area is, we can fit about 20 hamburgers on it. It has 4 burners so you can grill for 2 or grill for 20, no problem. So great for parties! The porcelien cast iron grates leave really good looking grill marks on the meat. My hubby is so excited since we got it we have been grilling on it every night. This barbeque grill is perfect for Summer!

The Char-Griller® Difference
“Char-Griller BBQ grills and smokers are designed for the professional BBQ’er in you. Whether you grill in the backyard or in professional events, the spacious capacity and even cooking temperatures of Char-Griller products combine for consistently delicious barbecue.”

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Primary cooking surface: 580 sq. inches

Chrome Plated warming rack; 254 sq. inches

Total cooking area: 834 sq. inches

Heavy-duty steel construction with tubular steel cart

Porcelain-coated cast-iron grates

4 stainless steel burner tubes

12,000-BTU brass side burner

Electronic ignition with igniter probe on every burner

Total heat output of 54,400 BTUs

Stainless steel

thermometer

Dual stacks for even heating

Porcelain-coated Flame Shields

Utensil hooks

Stay-Cool hood handle

Large side shelf for handy workspace while cooking

8-inch wheels for easy mobility

Removable grease catcher

Front panel to conceal propane tank

Hayneedle and the Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro 4000 Gas Grill get Bragging Rights!

Hayneedle is generously giving away a Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro 4000 Gas Grill to one VERY lucky Bragging Mommy reader!

digimarc

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Hayneedle and let us know another item they sell that you would like.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

5 entries- If you had Our Brag Worthy Summer Event button on your blog before this event started. Leave a link.
1 entry- Like Hayneedle on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
3 entries- Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy emails.
3 entries- Subscribe in Reader.
1 entry- Tell us another item you would like to have from Hayneedle.
1 entry- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter
5 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Hayneedle on Twitter and Tweet this giveaway including @hayneedle & @braggingmommy. Leave a link.

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 12 @10:00 am. The winner will then be chosen by random.org, verified and the winner will be contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Disclaimer/Disclosure. You must be 18 years or older and live in the US ONLY enter.

Heidi June 28, 2010 cooking, dad, family, giveaway, outdoor, review

{Brag Worthy Summer!} WeeRide Kangaroo Center-Mounted Child Bicycle Carrier Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“WeeRide makes interactive cycling products for the family on the go! Our focus is on bringing you innovative bicycle accessories and training tools designed to make cycling fun and exciting for parents and kids of all ages.”-WeeRide Website

My husband loves bike riding, he goes at least 3 times a week. Up until now bug will say “daddy go bike ride, bye bye” and then he gets really sad. But since WeeRide sent us their Kangaroo Carrier Bicycle Seat to review bug can

now go with Daddy on bike rides. We are very impressed with this child bike seat. It was easy to put together and put on the bike, it only took us about 25 minutes. Now that it is all put together, getting it on and off the bike is much quicker. I love that it has adjustable foot cups so you can adjust it to fit your child. At first my husband was hesitant to have bug riding in front of him but once he tried it out he loved it. It is so nice to have him in front of you where

you can see him and know he is safe. Having your child ride on the back and turning around to check them might lead to a crash. So that is really nice, my husband also likes being able to talk to bug as he is riding. The seat has a foam cover that helps absorb bumps and keeps bug comfortable. It also has a large foam covered dashboard for bug to have a place to hold onto, that way his hands stay off the handle bars and out of dad’s way. Bug has a blast riding bike with Daddy! This is the perfect way to ride with your child! A must have for bike riding this summer!

Check out this Video to learn more about the WeeRide Kangaroo Center-Mounted Child Bicycle Carrier.

Things that are Brag Worthy:

- New sleeker design

- Adjustable foot cups
- Same safe passenger position as the Classic
- New design mounting bar for easier setup
- New color – rich grey with red straps
- Child is visible at all times by rider
- Child’s needs can be heard, seen and attended to more easily
- Child’s weight enhances rather than impairs bicycle stability
- Interesting view for child – no more staring at someone’s back!
- Better communication between adult and child
- More comfortable, enjoyable riding experience for child
- Improved balance for rider due to child’s central position on bicycle
- Enhanced safety because adult’s arms surround child
- Easy to remove child carrier for riding alone

WeeRide is available for purchase at Wee Ride and Target.

WeeRide Kangaroo Center-Mounted Child Bicycle Carrier gets Bragging Rights!

WeeRide is generously giving one lucky Bragging Mommy Reader a WeeRide Kangaroo Center-Mounted Child Bicycle Carrier!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit WeeRide and tell us another product they make that you would like for your kids.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

5 entries: If you had our Brag Worthy Summer Event up on your blog before this giveaway started. Leave a link.
4 entries: Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy Emails.
2 entries: Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
1 entry- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter
1 entry- Tweet this giveaway including @braggingmommy

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 3 @10:00 am. The winner will then be chosen by random.org, verified and the winner will be contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Disclaimer/Disclosure. You must be 18 years or older and live in the US ONLY enter.

The Bragging Mommy June 26, 2010 outdoor, toddler

{Brag Worthy Summer!} CSN Stores Step 2 Naturally Playful Sand Table Review

Finally the summer is here! (at least where we live, we have been having some crazy weather). It is time to play outside!! Bug and I have been going stir crazy these last couple of months. We are so happy to be able to play out in our beautiful backyard. There is nothing better than toys to play with in the backyard, so when CSN Stores gave me an online gift code to pick out a review item, I knew they would have something fun for outdoor play. They have over 200 stores with so many fun items so choosing wasn’t easy. But I finally decided on the Step 2 Naturally Playful Sand Table! It was a perfect choice, bug is loving it! When it arrived we immediately put it together, and it only took a few minutes. I just had to push the legs on and presto we were ready to take it outside and fill it with sand (not included). I made sure I had a bag on hand for when this arrived It holds 40 lbs. of sand. Once we got it all filled bug played for about an hour, and then only stopped because I made him come in for dinner. Needless to say it is a huge hit. Bug loves playing with the 4 included toys: 2 rakes, 2 shovels, and a bucket. I love that it is a sand table instead of a sand box. This way when he is done playing, all I have to do is wash his hands rather than do a full body cleanup if he had been sitting in a sand box. Another really nice feature is the lid. It keeps the sand clean and dry regardless of the weather. It secures on with elastic straps and bug isn’t able to get it off by himself. That’s nice because I can decide when it’s time to play with sand rather than him getting into it all the time.

Things that are Brag Worthy:

So much fun for kids!
Cleaner than a sand box.
Lid keeps sand clean and dry.
Car Track built on the lid for fun play when closed.
Durable and made to last.
Super easy to assemble.

CSN Stores and Step 2 Naturally Playful Sand Table get Bragging Rights!

Heidi June 25, 2010 child, outdoor, toddler, toy

{Brag Worthy Summer} The Phd Pocket Disc Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

The Phd Pocket Disc is the coolest frisbee out there. Originally made by Savanna for a third grade round placemat project that turned into a flying sensation. This fun flying disc is something you will all want to have 6 of in your home!

♥ I was offered to review this item and was thrilled to accept. These fun flying discshave become a fast hit in my household. Not only with my kids, but me as well. The kids have used them as a frisbee, hat, placemat and even as a cool mouse pad for their trackman mouse. I used them for the kitchen too. They made great trivets and pot holders while cooking. I even used a couple at some of our last few baseball games to keep the kids busy as well as to sit on. Those bleacher ain’t too pretty sometimes. LOL All in all, the Phd Pocket Disc is not only a great toy for the kids, you can find numerous uses for them. What’s great is, the Phd Pocket Disc site and blog offer many suggestions for using this. Games being one of them. My kids loved trying out all the games they suggested. Their favorite was PHD Bowling. They love to bowl, so this was fun way that they can do it any day without having to pay for the shoes. LOL They also list a bunch of different uses. Some you wouldn’t even think of. WOW! Our family definitely recommends getting the Phd Pocket Disc for your home or as a gift for another family. You will love them! WE DO! ♥

Things that are Brag Worthy…

Colorful, Fun Patterns
Many Uses including nap pillow, cob web cleaner, pot holder and more!
Games… many different games to play with great suggestions from Phd Pocket Disc Site
Blog… Learn more exciting things about what Phd Pocket Disc does on theirinformative blog.
Fun for Parents and Kids
Very Useful too!
Great to give as a gift to anyone

Phd Pocket Disc gets Bragging Rights!

Phd Pocket Disc is giving ONE winner a Pocket Disc in the winners color & design choice!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Phd Pocket Disc and share with us what you love about them!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

2 entries: Visit Phd Pocket Disc Blog and comment including @thebraggingmommy
3 entries: Buy the Phd Pocket Disc during this giveaway
5 entries: If you have our Brag Worthy Summer Event up on your blog (It’s not to late if you want to add it). Leave a link.
2 entries: Subscribe to The Bragging Mommy Emails.
1 entry: Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
1 entry- “Like” The Bragging Mommy on Facebook
1 entry- Follow The Bragging Mommy on Twitter

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

You can enter this giveaway until July 2 @10:00 am. The winner will then be chosen by random.org, verified and the winner will be contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Disclaimer/Disclosure. You must be 18 years or older and live in the US ONLY enter.

Tara June 25, 2010 accessories, boy, child, cleaning, decor, family, gifts, girl, giveaway, home, outdoor, review