The Real Finished Nursery

This afternoon Michael’s parents came out to our house to help finish up some last minute things for Emma. We were surprised by a delicious home cooked dinner ready for us after a long 1 hour 20 minute drive home (due to the rain and people not knowing how to drive). When we were finished with dinner we noticed that Michael’s dad had painted the patch he repaired in the kitchen; we could barely tell that it had even been repaired. He also had painted going up the stairs from the main level, except there was a little issue. Apparently we had two different colors of the beige/tan color we have throughout the house because after he painted and it dried, he noticed they were different. It’s okay though because it might not look bad once he finishes above the hand rail. At least we don’t have the marks all over the walls now. Michael and his dad were too funny trying to put up the letters for above Emma’s bed. They were discussing how to get it just right and after a little mistake, things were going on the right track. Also the girl monkey was hung up and the room is now complete. Here are some of the pictures of how your room looks (we just need you here now):

Another Appointment, Not Many Left

I got to sleep in this morning, which is something I won’t be able to do real soon. My parents kept the girls since we were there on Saturday, which meant I could really relax and not have to worry about them for a little bit. After a busy night last night cleaning up around the house, I really did need to rest up. I woke up and just did a little tidying up around the house before my mom got here. She brought the girls home and helped clean around the house. It will probably need to get done again before Emma is born, but we never know (she could come tonight).

I had another doctor’s appointment this afternoon, which I thought we weren’t going to make it there on time. My mom and I went to Target, lost track of time and had to hurry to the appointment. We still arrived ahead of the appointment time and then even had to wait for about 20 minutes. I went through the normal routine, bathroom and weigh in (this time…no weight gain!). I was really glad that I hadn’t gained any weight so my total is right around 30 pounds. That’s not terrible, but I hope it comes off fast when Emma is born. While meeting with the doctor I mentioned my right hand has been tingling since yesterday. I figured it was the beginnings of carpal tunnel and she said I could buy a splint or just have the baby, so I think it will be best just to have Emma. Emma’s heart beat ranged between 125-130 bpm and my belly measurement was 38 cm, which is perfectly normal. Again my exam was painful since my doctor had to reach in pretty far to feel my cervix since it was still sitting behind Emma’s head. The doctor did comment that her head has really dropped since last week. There is nothing to worry about, she is just wanting to take her time before meeting us. We will have to talk next week, if Emma isn’t here, about what the next steps will be. My doctor will go one week past my due date, but doesn’t really feel comfortable doing that since both Michael and I were big babies. Who knows, she could also surprise us and arrive sometime within the next two weeks. Either way, we are so ready to meet her.


38 weeks prego

Baptism Preparation Class

Michael and I may be jumping the gun by going to a baptism preparation class, but I would rather get it out of the way now instead of later. We hurried home from work, ate dinner, then headed up to our parish. We already know who the godfather will be but Michael and I were talking about who the godmother should be. We were surprised when we pulled into the parking lot and noticed how many cars were there. We weren’t sure if they were all for the class, but we did realize a lot of them were when we went into the parish lobby classroom. The majority of tables were full when we arrived and more people just kept coming in. They had to add more chairs for those who came in later. We were one of the few people that didn’t have a child with us.

Sister Mary abbreviated all the paperwork she had, which was nice otherwise we could have been there for the entire evening. We got a lot of useful information about the baptism and now we just have to wait till Emma arrives. We plan on having her baptism on June 5th (if the date is available); since Scott will be traveling to Australia on June 6th, otherwise it will have to be around the middle to end of July.

We still have the tough decision to make for the godmother; I hope we make the right one. We still have some time to decide and who knows we may even change our minds again. The next fun thing to do will be getting her a baptismal gown or something white to wear (I suggested just buying a onesie with a cross on it).

Last Minute Purchases

Michael and I went to Babies R Us to get the safety gate. We really lucked out with all the coupons we had; first it was on sale, then we had 15% coupon off any gate, then we had $30 rewards, and in the mail today we received $5 off any item. The gate that was originally $60 we spent under $10 for. Michael and I also went to Target to get the diaper pail. While there we noticed it was $5 cheaper than at Babies R Us and we were thinking of anything else we would possibly need. My co-workers gave me a $200 gift card for my shower gift so we used that for our purchases today. We also got the window visor, absorbent sheet, and some socks. When we got home, Michael put together the gate while I was busy putting things away in Emma’s room. I also wanted to check our bags to make sure we have absolutely everything we need and ready to go for when the time is right. I also put together a bag of clothes to leave in the car in case my water were to break while I was out in the public. I think for the most part we have everything ready to go for when the time comes, except for the small things that we will have to get together when I go into labor.


The safety gate at Emma's room.


Cali is unsure about having the gate at Emma's room.

Another Appointment

Last week my boss and I decided that I needed to take a day off during the week since I was getting so far along in my pregnancy. We decided on Tuesdays, so I got to enjoy spending some time with my puppies. This morning we started off having really bad weather; severe thunderstorms that lasted for awhile. It was nice just to lay in bed all morning and not have anything to do. I had planned on going running around in the morning, but delayed that a little bit till after the storms calmed down. I ended up going to Target looking for a safety gate, but only found the most and least expensive ones (not the one we were looking at getting). I also went out to one of the baby stores in Lake Saint Louis to get Emma some headbands for her hospital pictures. I ended up getting two headbands with adjustable flowers. I think she will look super cute in both of them! I did a little cleaning today to prepare the house for when Emma arrives. I know it’s a little early, but I would rather be ahead of schedule than behind.

I met Michael at my doctor’s appointment this afternoon. The waiting room at the doctor’s office was really crowded, but to our surprise we checked in and went on back. I had only gained a pound this last week, which most of it was for Emma. My strep B test that I did last week came back negative, which is what we wanted so that’s good. My blood pressure is getting back to what it usually is, 120/80’s. The doctor had a hard time finding Emma’s heart beat at first, but then she found it and it was 120 bpm. My belly measurement was 37 cm, which is right on track. Again my doctor wanted to see if I was beginning to dilate. She said that Emma’s head had moved down even further and my cervix is sitting behind her head. That’s why there was so much pressure for when she was examining me. My doctor said “we may or may not see you here next week”. She told us some signs to look for in case I go into labor. I’m still thinking that Emma is going to be stubborn and arrive later than her due date, but if she keeps progressing down then she may be here sooner. This is an exciting time because now she can come anytime within the next three weeks!


Just a few more weeks!

Last Baby Shower

This morning when I walked into the therapy gym I noticed it was all decorated for a baby shower. There was a sign at the door that said “it’s a girl” and streamers all over the room with little wall decorations throughout the gym. I had a feeling this was going to happen because when I left yesterday, my boss asked if I was going to be in tomorrow. She also told me that she had a good project for me; it was to relax and take it easy for the day.

At lunch time the whole therapy department had punch and cake. We were going to play games, but the lady that was supposed to bring them in forgot them at home. I also got to open my gifts they got me; one girl made two hooded towels and another lady’s mother in law made a blanket for me. The whole therapy department got together on a Target gift card worth $200. I was really surprised that they gathered that much money. I very much appreciate all that the therapy department has done for me. It’s a great team to work with. I can't wait till Emma is born so I can take her into the department for everyone to meet her.

Emma's Car Seat

Tonight Michael had booked an appointment with the fire department to install the car seats in our cars. This may be a little early, but I would rather be prepared ahead of time than be rushed later on. We weren’t at the fire station very long because two guys worked in my car, while two guys worked in Michael’s car. After they were installed, one of the fire fighters showed us a few things with the car seats. It was nice to get this information and also to know that we need to put emergency contact information on the carrier. These are things we wouldn’t think of, but they have been through it enough that they know what to tell people.



After we got home from the fire station, I began feeling funny; like I was getting the flu. My head was hurting, my whole body was aching, and I just felt like blah. We didn’t get to see most of the shows we like to watch because we both fell asleep. I’ve been told a million times that I need to get my rest now because in a couple weeks I won’t be getting much sleep so I need to get used to it. I wish I could just relax, but I keep thinking of all the little things that need to get done before Emma arrives.

Another Doctor's Appointment

Michael and I pulled into the parking garage and got a front spot again; something that doesn’t usually happen, but is great when it actually does. My body was beginning to ache and the less I had to walk the better. I went through my usual routine, go to the bathroom, get weighed, and wait. I gained a few more pounds in a week; that’s not good news, but I guess Emma is gaining most of the weight now (at least that's what I'm telling myself). Michael and I had a really good laugh as the doctor was entering into the exam room. Something only we would get and not appropriate to put out there for the world to know.

My OB-GYN had listened to Emma's heart beat, took my belly measurement, performed the strep B test, and examined my uterus to see if I was dilating. That last one hurt like you know what. There was so much pressure, but I guess I will get to experience much more pressure when Emma is born. Michael could tell I was in pain by my facial expressions. From the exam, my doctor was able to tell that I’m beginning to dilate and the head is down, moving into my pelvis. That’s exciting to know that in just a couple weeks we will be having a baby!

What a Day

Your dad didn’t get much sleep last night and decided to play golf bright and early this morning with his cousin Zach. When he left the house it was already 77 degrees outside and it just kept getting hotter. Thankfully, the air conditioner decided to turn on this morning so it was a little cooler in the house.

While your dad was gone, I was a busy bee around the house. I began by starting the laundry, putting away some of the gifts we received yesterday, wrote all of the thank you notes, and picked up around the house. Then I had an appointment for my prenatal massage that Michael had given me for my birthday. Since I am so far along in my pregnancy, I had to lie for the hour on my left side. It started off feeling okay, but by the time I got up my left side was hurting. The massage was so relaxing that I fell asleep a bit. I wish it could have been longer, but it was still very much appreciated.

After the massage, I met your dad and we headed to your cousin Chase’s first birthday party. It was at a park in the middle of the afternoon with temperatures near 90 degrees. At first it was a little miserable, but then the clouds came out and the winds picked up so it didn’t feel so bad. Your dad and some of his family members went to the lake/pond to fish. I think that is something that your dad will enjoy doing with you.


The birthday boy, Chase!


Attempt to get the team picture.


Playing in the water.


The birthday cake for the guests.


The big sister, Isabella, keeping an eye on her brother.


Chase enjoying his birthday cake and the ball at the same time.

Fourth Baby Shower

This afternoon we had a couple’s baby shower hosted by our friend Laura. Those who were present included: your grandma and grandpa, nana and papa, Uncle Scott, Ashley and Jarrod, Zach, Kelly and her mom, Ashley and Chris, Jake, Sue and Jared, and Mike and Rachel.

Laura had her Aunt and Uncle prepare the bar-b-que and she had the rest of the food (there was a variety of fruit, taco dip, chips and dip, cookies, and brownies). All the food tasted really good! Laura also had chairs and washers set up outside, but the temperature was a little too hot to be outside right when it started so we waited. After most people were finished eating, Michael and I opened all the gifts. There were so many cute clothes, blankets, and other items we need from our registry.


The wonderful hostess with Michael and I.


Michael and I getting ready to open our presents.


Michael loved all of the Cardinals gear Emma received.


The cute diaper cake Kelly's mom made for us.

After the majority of guests left, some of the remaining people decided to play wiffle ball and when it got dark we headed inside to play cards. Well most of us didn’t get to play because some boys (your dad included) decided to play a game with themselves. After that, we watched some of the hockey and baseball games before your dad and his cousin Zach decided to play video games. It was kind of cute because they were reminiscing of the past when they used to play those games.





We ended up staying at Laura’s house for a long time and we needed to get home because your sisters (Cali and Lexi) had been at home by themselves for a long time and it was really hot inside. Not to mention that when we got home, it was still really hot. So hot that your dad tried turning on the air conditioner and found out that it wouldn't work. What a bummer :(

Adding Some Finishing Touches To The Nursery

Your dad and I bought a new book shelf for your room today. We were debating between two styles, but decided that the more expensive one will probably last longer and it's a little nicer looking. We don't exactly have things to go into each cube right now, but I'm sure over time we will begin to collect things for you. Your room is finally coming together; now all we need is you!


I just love the cubes; they are full of books that we can’t wait to read to you

The Finished Nursery

So Michael and I decided that we didn’t want the yellow wall because it was just too overwhelming. We decided on having all the purple walls and then adding the stencils. Michael’s dad was able to come out to our house this morning to finish painting the nursery. When Michael and I got home, we began to add the stencil details. It was a lot harder than it looks and as you can tell we didn’t get much accomplished today. It will take some time, but it will get there and it will look great! Right now it seems like there is a lot of purple in the room, but I’m hoping when we add her name (in white) above her bed and the bright colors of the stenciling around the room, it will brighten up. If we don’t like it, we can always change it; it’s only paint.


Emma's bed


The grass stencil we are using; then we are going to add some flowers. Emma will have her own garden in her room.

Doctor's Appointment

This week starts the once a week doctor appointments until Emma is here. While at the doctor’s appointment, I found out that I have gained 28 pounds since the day we found out we were expecting. At first I was shocked by how much I had actually gained. I honestly didn’t think it was going to be that much, since I don’t think I look like I have gained much weight. My doctor told me that my blood pressure -(115 /70) was perfect, that Emma’s heart beat 130 bpm was perfect, and the belly measurement 35 cm was ok. We don’t know exactly what was meant by just ok and we didn’t bother to ask since everything else was perfect. We asked some questions that were brought up during the birthing class, some of which didn’t really pertain to us now, but we still asked anyways.

Now Michael and I will come back every week until Emma decides to meet us. At the next appointment, the exams will begin again to see if I have dilated any and also to check for Strep B virus. It’s crazy to think that in just four short weeks our sweet pea will be here and we can finally meet her. I’m anxious to see what features she gets from me and which ones she gets from Michael. I know at first, we won’t be able to tell much, but over time we will see how she develops and grows into the perfect little girl we can only hope for.

Painting the Nursery

Today is your great grandma Fiehler’s 80th birthday. We celebrated her birthday and my grandparent’s 60th wedding anniversary yesterday. They were pretty surprised by the fact that most of the family showed up for the party. Also today nine years ago, your dad and I started dating. I guess this date doesn’t really count anymore since we have a wedding anniversary we will now celebrate. It’s still exciting to know how we have changed and grown over the past years and we look forward for what is to come in the future.

It was a busy day today. We went to church earlier than usual since we were going out to lunch for Scott’s birthday and we had Michael’s parents coming out to our house to paint. Michael and his dad went to the paint store to get some samples. Michael’s dad began painting while we were having lunch. When we arrived back home, we were anxious to see how the nursery looked. We had one wall painted yellow and another purple. The yellow seemed just too bright and it didn’t really go with the bedding we picked out. The light purple was a good match to the bedding. Michael’s dad suggested we look into adding color through the use of a stencil so we went to Michael’s to pick out a few. Since the walls weren’t completely finished, Michael was able to practice the stencils on the wall to see if we would even like it. To my surprise, it turned out better than I thought it would. We picked out bright colors that will stand out from the bedding and not clash with the light purple walls. We have to wait a few days until the rest of the walls get painted then we will do the stenciling.

The before pictures of the nursery:





The result of the first painting: