Gender Neutral Nursery Reveal

With Baby K on the way in less than two weeks, I'm excited to announce that we are officially done with our gender neutral nursery! This sweet space started with dark oak trim and hot pink and green walls, and now it's just the right mix of pale gray, white, blue, and green with some pops of beige. Creating a gender neutral nursery was just as fun as I expected, and now we're all set for all of our babies, boy or girl! I'm so excited to be sharing our nursery with you today, and I hope you love it just as much as we do.

For the room, we decided to go with calm, airy colors and a fun travel/adventure theme that really captured the heart of our dreams for our baby. Aaron and I love adventuring through life together, and have shared travels all around the world, and we have the same hopes for our sweet little one. In fact, we feel like them joining our world will be our greatest adventure yet (and I've tried to capture that in our room decor).

A few years back, I painted the terrible neon pink and neon green walls of the room a dreamy color called Woodlawn Sterling Blue. I loved the mix between gray and blue, and found it very calming. Once I got pregnant, I did some hunting and pinning and just knew that I wanted to paint our trim in the room. (If you missed it, check out my original gender neutral nursery inspiration here.)

We have oak trim in all the other rooms of our house, but I was ready for a change in the nursery. We didn't use a pure white, but instead went with Oatlands Subtle Taupe, a color I had used in other rooms of our house to accent, and one that would more subtly transition into the rest of our house. Aaron also bought and finished a new door for the closet.

From there, we took the old dresser/changing table from when I was a baby and painted it the same color as the trim. We also bought some (new to us) blinds from our local ReStore that matched the trim just perfectly. Although we had originally planned for Aaron to possibly build our crib, we found an INCREDIBLE deal at Nebraska Furniture Mart in the clearance center. Everything with the crib was structurally sound, and so we brought home this dreamy gray Serta beauty that we would never have purchased for full price.

 

We brought in the nightstand we already had from Nebraska Furniture Mart (clearance center again), and I picked out this fun lamp from the same store after much deliberation! I wasn't sure about it at first, but I really love the way it brings in the burlap texture, which I then continued throughout the room in small doses of decor.

 

This glider/recliner in Dolphin Gray was our big splurge in the room, and I love it so much! I just knew that I would be spending a ton of time in it, so I wanted it to be super comfy. With limited space in the room, we also thought that a recliner would be worth the extra money, instead of going with a chair and ottoman. It's so soft and fabulous and I can't wait to snuggle our little one in it. Our crib skirt, the arrow, and the small IKEA containers all bring in pale pops of green throughout the room that tie in with the map idea and also bring a feminine touch in case Baby K ends up being a girl.

Rounding out the decor for our travel and adventure theme was SO much fun. I found this cute "Adventure Awaits" sign at TJ Maxx, along with a cute little globe, and those were actually the first two purchases I made for the entire room. From there, I did a lot of planning and dreaming before finally figuring out what I wanted. I loved this Burlap Mail Organizer from Kohl's, and thought it would be perfect to hold a few diapers above our changing area. I also loved the burlap and plan to put up fun photos of our adventures with Baby K.

The other two gallery wall items are a fun Kansas City print that we won in a Christmas Gift Exchange (representing home), and a painting that we bought on the street while we were in Greece this summer (and I was newly pregnant). After much debate, I finally landed on curtains from Walmart in a pretty pale blue/green color called Spa.

For the area behind the crib, I wanted something light and bright and map-related. I looked and looked but didn't find anything I really loved until I saw a multi-canvas map on the Kohl's website. It was kind of pricey, so I sent the link to my incredibly-talented hubby, and he made it on wood and painted it for me. What a winner, huh? I like to say that he can always tell our baby that he gave them the world.

 

Aaron also made the arrows around the room, my brother and his girlfriend made us the super cute cloud mobile for me for Christmas, and a sweet YoungLife girl painted us the "You are Our Greatest Adventure" canvas. I love that so much of our room is decorated with meaningful, handmade items specifically created with Baby K in mind!

 

All in all, I love this space and am so excited for all of the hours I'll spend with our sweet little one (and future babies after that). It's just the right mix of airy and light, and I love thinking about all of the adventures to come with Baby K- adventures that are even better than those we've had before!

Here's a summary of the items in our nursery: 

Crib: Serta Fernwood Convertible in Gray
Glider/Recliner: TRYP in Dolphin Gray 
Curtains: Calix Fashion Window Curtain, Set of Two in Spa from Walmart
Lamp: Nebraska Furniture Mart
Crib Skirt: American Baby Company in Celery
Fitted Sheet: Target
"Adventure Awaits" Wall Hanging: TJ Maxx
Burlap Mail Organizer: Kohl's 
World Map Canvases, "Greatest Adventure" Sign, Arrows, Cloud Mobile: Custom Made 

Currently,
Kelsie

Are you following along on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook? Be sure to join us for more home decor ideas, posts, and to meet Baby K! 

Christian Labor Playlist: Pain with a Purpose

With Baby K on the way in t-minus two weeks, we've been preparing for all things baby: especially labor and delivery. I've read enough books and had enough conversations to know my options and some of the things that can happen, but there is honestly no way of knowing how the birthing process will go for me. That being said, I know that it will be difficult and challenging, but it will also be pain with a purpose. And in preparation for this purposeful pain, I've created a playlist of some of my very favorite, calming worship songs.

The plan is for me to attempt a natural birth (with no epidural), especially because my blood platelet counts are very low, but I am open to doing whatever I need to in order to keep both Baby K and myself safe and healthy. That being said, I realize the need to have a good plan in place to help myself stay calm during what will be the most challenging experience of my life. Music has always been a huge part of my life, especially worship music. It speaks to my soul in a way that most other things can't. I knew that I needed a playlist to help distract me during labor, so I've created the one I'm sharing below. Though it's not long enough to last for the entire delivery process, I know that these are songs full of truth and peace that I won't mind listening to more than once. 

Click here for the link to open and listen in Spotify! 

No matter if you're planning a natural birth, planning on an epidural ASAP, or searching for peaceful, worshipful music for a different type of pain that isn't related to childbirth at all, I hope that this playlist provides you with just as much comfort and peace as it does for me. God is good, and I know that he will not leave you or me in the midst of our pain. Our pain is purposeful, even when we don't always see the purpose behind it. In my situation, that purpose is bringing a precious little life into this world, and that is a moment I simply can't wait for. It will be so worth the pain.

Currently,
Kelsie

36 Week Bumpdate

And just like that, I'm nine months pregnant! I technically hit 37 weeks yesterday, so I'm about a week behind in sharing, but better late than never, right? Since we're only three weeks out from my March 5th due date, this will likely be my last bumpdate before Baby K decides to make his or her arrival (unless the little one decides to hang out for a while longer). I truly can't believe it, and am a little mix of nervous, excited, and just so ready to meet our sweet little nugget! Check out the highlights and weekly photos, and be sure to share your guess if Baby K will be a boy or girl!

 

How I'm Feeling

Honestly, I was just telling Aaron yesterday how blessed I feel. Although it's definitely been harder to sleep and I'm getting more uncomfortable, I don't really feel like these last few weeks of pregnancy have been that bad. I know I have a few more to go, and that I'll be SO ready for Baby K to get here by the time I hit week 40, but I have actually really enjoyed being pregnant and feel so grateful that it's been relatively comfortable and easy for me. I'm sure it won't be so easy the next time when there's a kiddo running around to take care of! 

 

What's New This Month

We took our Winter Maternity Photos, and had an absolute blast! We also attended our Childbirth class this past weekend, and even got to try out various labor positions and relaxation methods. Safe to say that with Aaron around I may be laughing my way through a few early contractions, as we have way too much fun together. I'm now going to weekly doctor's appointments, and it's crazy to think that they'll be checking my progress each time I come in from now on. Baby K's head is down and putting lots of pressure on my bladder, so I'm peeing all the time and definitely feel more pressure even when I'm just walking around.

 

 Wives' Tales: What's Your Guess? 

 One thing that I'm incredibly excited about is meeting Baby K and getting our big surprise: boy or girl! It honestly hasn't been that hard not knowing, and I'm excited about our gender neutral nursery (which I'll reveal later this week!) and all of the wonderful, useful items we've gotten at our showers. It's been so fun to nest and get things put away and dream of our baby wearing the little outfits I've washed.

As far as wives' tales, I'm pretty much split down the middle between boy and girl. Baby K started out with a higher heartbeat (over 150), but has been in the mid 140s lately. I am carrying low, was sick from weeks 7-13, and have had some acne. I haven't gained a ton of weight, and haven't really craved sweets over salty or vice versa. Put in your votes or guesses in the comments below!!

 

What I'm Nervous About 

I'm still waiting on the results from my latest blood test to see if my blood platelets went down some more. Like I shared in my 32 week update, my counts were getting low enough that an epidural may not even be an option. That being said, I'm preparing myself for a natural birth, and I didn't know that I wanted an epidural even if I could have one. I'm a little nervous about labor and delivery, but I'm trusting that God will partner with me in this and I know that Aaron will be an incredible help and huge supporter for me. I truly believe that my body knows what to do if I let it! I started creating a little "Pain with a Purpose" playlist I may share soon, and have even started to throw a few things into my hospital bag.

 

What I'm Excited About 

As the weeks march on, I'm realizing just how much our life is going to change. Because of the time I took to "pre-mourn" and be honest about how I felt in posts like 9 Reasons I'm Afraid to have a Baby, I truly do feel ready and so excited for this new phase of life. Although it will involve huge changes in our ministry, marriage, and social life, we are excited for this baby to come be a part of our world. We know that God has a huge plan for all of us, and I am truly thrilled and so grateful for the chance to be a mama and raise our child up in faith together. We have such a great community of family, friends, and supporters who are already surrounding us in prayer, and for that we are so thankful. I've also got like 13 days left of school before Baby K's due date, so I'm in major "get ready to be gone mode" and am truly thankful that I will have so long off on maternity leave to spend time just being Mommy. It's bittersweet to leave my awesome kiddos at school, but I know that this time with our own kiddo is something I will never regret.

Who knows what the next few weeks will bring! Baby K may be joining us here on the outside any time now. Be sure to follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the first news when our little one arrives. And be sure to get in your votes for boy or girl before it's too late :) Thanks for being a part of this pregnancy journey with me. You may want to check out a few of my other motherhood posts that are linked throughout the post or listed below!

Currently,
Kelsie

 A Letter to Our Unborn Baby

Our Winter Maternity Photos  

January Recap

Pregnant and Waiting

5 Ways I'm Conquering My Pregnancy Fears

In the midst of these final weeks when I'm not feeling so pretty, Baby K kicks and squirms and reminds me that growing a life inside of you is one of the most beautiful things you could ever do. Oh sweet little one, you couldn't possibly be more loved. 💕👶🏽Sharing our maternity photos today on the blog (click my profile for more!) 📸😍#BabyKisontheway @laceyrene.studios @shoppinkblush

A photo posted by Kelsie Kleinmeyer (@currentlykelsie) on Feb 7, 2017 at 7:24am PST

One Day in Philadelphia: A Travel Guide

When Aaron and I set off on our 17 day European Adventure a few summers ago, our first stop was actually the great U.S. city of Philadelphia. Thanks to a six-hour layover en route to Dublin, we had the entire day to explore Philadelphia. Here are some tips on what to see, where to eat, and how to get around Philadelphia during a short visit. 

What to See

Old City

 

Image via Unsplash by Khurt Williams

Just a few blocks from Philadelphia's historical landmarks, you'll find Old City. This area is right along the Delaware River, and it's an excellent place to stay during your visit. You'll find plenty of affordable IHG hotels near Penn's Landing and Old City, all within walking distance of numerous old churches and historic buildings.

The Liberty Bell 

Located in the Independence National Historic Park, the iconic Liberty Bell is a stop that you simply can't miss. After going through the security checkpoint, you can walk through the exhibit for free and snap a photo with one of the most famous bells you've ever seen.

Independence Hall 

 

After seeing the Liberty Bell, you've got to head over to visit Independence Hall. This is the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S Constitution were signed. You can visit only on a tour, and timed entry tickets are required March through December. Plan ahead by getting your tickets online in advance.

Reading Terminal Market

If you're a fan of farmers markets or just local products in general, then be sure to stop by the Reading Terminal Market. Located on North 12th Street, this market is just to the west of Old City. Reading Terminal Market has been going strong since 1893. It also houses a variety of restaurants that you can try.

What to Eat

Philly Cheesesteaks

You can't visit Philadelphia without eating a famous cheesesteak! Although tourists will swear by either Pat's or Geno's, many locals recommend Campo's Deli instead. The cheesesteak here doesn't disappoint. As an added bonus, the deli is located in the Old City on the easy-to-find Market Street. 

Bakery Treats 

Vacation is a great time to indulge your sweet tooth. A few of our recommendations include stopping by Beiler's Bakery in Reading Terminal Market and grabbing ice cream from Bassett's. 

How to Get Around

When you fly into the Philadelphia International Airport, you'll be within walking distance of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, or SEPTA. Trains run into the city center every 30 minutes, and a day pass only costs you $12 for an individual or $29 for a family. We bought one-day passes and headed into the city in no time!

All in all, Philadelphia is a fun city with plenty to explore. It's a great stop on any East Coast trip. Although you could spend more than one day there if you wanted, you'll definitely be able to hit all of the highlights in a day if you plan your time wisely. Happy travels!

Currently,

Kelsie

Our Winter Maternity Photos

Pregnancy is an amazing experience, and it's something that I wanted to capture forever with maternity photos. I've never been one to feel very photogenic, and when you throw in the extra weight of pregnancy it can definitely be a hit to a girl's self-esteem. But now, at 36 weeks, I can honestly say that I am amazed by my body and truly in love with my bump. Baby K is kicking and squirming and reminding me that growing a life inside of you is one of the most beautiful things you could ever do. And these photos? They make me feel beautiful.

 

 When Aaron and I scheduled a late January photo session with my amazingly talented friend Lacey of Lacey Rene' Studios, I figured it would be chilly and snowy and probably a little rough to take outdoor pictures. But oh friends, we couldn't have asked for a more perfect day! It was 60, and so warm that I almost feel silly sharing these photos as "winter maternity". Either way, I was able to get away with a knee-length floral maternity dress that was absolutely perfect with the dreamy outdoor setting. Lacey shared some of her favorites on her blog, and I am so excited to share some of mine with you today! I absolutely love how they turned out! 

 

Because there was no way to anticipate the gorgeous January day that we would have, I also picked out a dress that was a little more "winter-friendly". I wanted something with a little pizzazz, something romantic with long sleeves and color that would pop. I landed on this gorgeous burgundy chiffon maternity dress with flowy sleeves and a fun slit that didn't run too high. I felt like a Grecian goddess in this dress, and I rounded out both outfits with my favorite Target booties and the Kendra Scott necklace that Aaron got me for Christmas.

 

I know that this mama's heart will forever cherish these photos of our sweet firstborn, still nestled inside of me. I'm just the right mix of nervous and excited and ready, but most of all I simply can't wait to meet Baby K soon! In case you missed them, check out my letter to our unborn baby, or one of the other pregnancy posts below:

32 Week Bumpdate

5 Ways I'm Conquering My Pregnancy Fears

Gender Neutral Nursery Inspiration

How I Knew I Was Ready for a Baby

Our Pregnancy Announcement

Don't forget to follow along on Facebook and Instagram for the first glimpses of Baby K once we meet him or her! It won't be long now! We already feel so blessed, and are grateful for your support as we enter parenthood.

Currently,

Kelsie

January Recap

And just like that, we are into February and only about four weeks away from my due date with Baby K. (WHAT!) I can't believe how quickly January went by. For so long, I just focused on getting through Christmas, and then all of a sudden January was here and it was time to plan showers, check off lists, and get everything finished up before Baby joins us here on the other side. Here's what we've been up to for the last month, along with a few blog posts from January in case you missed them! T-minus thirty days until we are parents!

Baby Showers, Appointments, and Classes

January has been all about attending my bi-weekly doctor's appointments, going to our Beyond Birth class, and having my first baby shower! I've become pretty good friends with the secretaries and nurses who see me pretty much all the time, and I'm definitely feeling a little more knowledgeable about some elements of parenthood. My last blood draw is coming up to check my platelets, but we are SO grateful that Baby K is growing on track and is healthy. I'm also really excited for a couple more baby showers coming up in February!

The Ice Storm that Wasn't

Here in KC, we had some major anticipation of Ice Storm Jupiter that ended up being not much of a storm at all. It got us out of school early, shut down churches, and even caused them to cancel our Childbirth Class! (Don't worry, we've got one scheduled for next weekend now.) I totally get wanting to be safe and keep people off of the roads, but it was pretty crazy how much the city was shut down...and then we ended up getting barely any precipitation at all.

Maternity Photos

Just one weekend after the nasty temps of the ice storm, we ended up having a beautiful 60 degree January day to take our maternity photos. It was one of my very favorite parts of the month. I always love taking photos with Aaron and my friend Lacey of Lacey Rene' Studios. For someone who doesn't feel so photogenic, I'm loving how they are turning out, and I can't wait to see (and share) more pictures celebrating the bump!

 

 A New Degree

January also brought on some change in another way: Aaron started working on earning his Master's Degree in Educational Leadership (also known as administration). I'm so proud of him and all of the hard work he's putting in to be a student again, which can be hard after several years out of school. The program is all online, which is super convenient and makes it much more doable with our baby on the way. He will be done within two years, and I'm excited for his new adventure. Baby K will be able to see Daddy get his Master's before we know it!

Baby K and I officially made it 36 weeks doing 9Round. Today we hung up our gloves for a while because it was getting pretty dang hard to do most of the exercises. For now, we'll stick to weights and walks until this little one decides to make his or her appearance. 💕😍#BabyKisontheway

A photo posted by Kelsie Kleinmeyer (@currentlykelsie) on Feb 2, 2017 at 3:37pm PST

Finalizing the Nursery

I logged on to our registry and was shocked to find that we only have about 30 days left until Baby is expected! Once you get within two weeks, it really could be any time, so I'm definitely feeling the need to get things cranked out and finalized. This includes our nursery! Aaron is hard at work on a fun handmade project that will make the wall look amazing, and we recently picked up a new closet door and finished paint touch-ups. I also started organizing shower gifts and nesting, while finding a place for everything to go in the room. I'm loving it, and can't wait to share the big reveal in the next week or two. Check out my inspiration here!

In Case You Missed Them This Month:

• 17 Things I'm Excited for in 2017
• 32 Week Bumpdate
• My Two Year Blogging Anniversary
• A Letter to Our Unborn Baby

I'll be sharing my 36 week bump date here next week, along with some maternity photos and maybe a travel post or two. Be on the look out for those. Cheers to February: the last, shortest month before our baby!

Currently,
Kelsie