Nursery Update: Wall Coverings

*I want to begin this by saying that I in no way want to come off as a the creator who thought of most of these projects. I love to craft and when I get a whole room (and baby) to decorate for, I turn to the internet for ideas. I think of it as a blank canvas and I finally get to try all these different crafting mediums from blogs and pinterest to experiment and play with. Almost all the projects that I have done are ideas taken from other super creative people and tweaked to fit our scheme, tastes and home. 

With that being said, I wanted to share one of the bigger projects in the nursery, the wall coverings. Like I mentioned before, we can not paint in this house and while I could have worked with the white walls, they are kind of an ugly yellowish color to begin with. I think I ran through about a hundred different ideas before I finally came up with the winner.

Having a girl, I have a new appreciation for ruffles (in moderation of course). How about a whole wall of ruffles!!!!! I originally saw the idea over on the blog Ruffled (how appropriately named) where they created a backdrop for a wedding using this method. It was love at first sight. Before I committed to the idea, I had to think of how much time and money this was going to cost us.

I decided that rather than using tissue paper which could take a while, I would use paper tablecloths. I would have gone with the tissue paper option if party stores do not readily carry the color that I already wanted. Thankfully they do!

Supplies
Kraft Paper (3 rolls)- Dollartree $3
Table Cloths (3)- Party City $12
Flat Push Pins- Hobby Lobby (already had)
Packing Tape (3 rolls)- Dollartree $3

(Ruffled's blog has better pictures of the instructions. For some odd reason, I get so into a project that I forget to take progress pictures.)

First I covered the wall in Kraft paper from Dollartree. I simply started at the top of the wall, put a pin in each corner and the same in the bottom. I think I needed 3 rolls so that equals $3. (Sorry for the blurry picture)

I figured out how big I wanted  the scallops. I ended up rounding to a number that would make an even number on the tablecloth so I did not end up with any half scallops. Each strip from the tablecloth had 8 scallops. I would fold the tablecloths so that I could cut long strips in the right height, fold each strip into the right number of scallops and cut with a template.

I started by making the bottom row just a solid strip with no scallops and then the second row had the scallops touching the top of the baseboard. I would use the packing tape in a strip a few inches long on the top of each paper strip, in four places. Make sure you put them on the ends so they do not flap around.

I figured out many strips I had and how high they should be spaced apart. I would measure in a few spots and hang the next row, making sure to stagger each layer. You will half some partial scallops when you get to the wall. And you might have to cut strips at certain points to fit your wall.

The only thing that I did differently than Ruffled was finish the top since you would see it in the room. The top most strip I taped using long, looped strips so that they were double sided. I was not satisfied with one full strip on top so I went and added a half height one too so that it appeared that the wall was continuing up. Hopefully this all makes sense when you see the pictures.

I absolutely love it! I had a friend ask about what we will do when/if the baby starts grabbing at it but I figure that we will just cross that bridge when we get to it. We have never had a problem with Miller and his tree.

On the opposite wall, we wanted something a bit more neutral since those ruffles are quite a lot. We went with an old standby and did craft paper and gold dots just like it our bedroom. This time we just made the dots smaller.

I think they both really bring the room together. I used to think that if we could paint the walls, I would not be covering them like this but now I think if we could paint, I would at least still do the ruffle wall.I love the texture that it gives the room!I can not wait to get the crib in front of it to see it as a real nursery.

Touch a Truck and Ice Cream Crankin'

It seems like we have months where nothing happens, and then months when everything happens. It is coming upon our busy season and of course that is when we are expecting another baby. We had a weekend where one day was the Touch a Truck in a nearby town, and the next was the Ice Cream Crank that Ben's firm volunteers at.

First I had to share these two pictures. The first is Miller and Isla. They were both yelling through the pool noodle and giggling at each other. Most kids Miller's age, they just play around each other, but these two can play together.

I made this magnetic/chalkboard for Miller and everytime I turned it around to the chalkboard side, he was not interested. I broke it out when Isla was over and Miller loved it!

Saturday was the Touch a Truck. I have been looking forward to this ever since Heather told us about it. My child is obsessed with every kind of vehicle and I figured that he would love this. Every time we see a firetruck, ambulance, boat, plan, etc out, he freaks out and gets so excited. I decided to make a whole family fun morning of it and go to breakfast first.

We pulled up and it was so packed that Ben dropped us off so he could go hunt down a parking spot across the street. As I was wading through the crowds and vehicles I thought Miller would be screaming at all the different things. Instead he sat in his stroller, clutching his truck to his chest. When I pointed to a firetruck to ask him what it was, I did not get his usual emphatic answer but a mumble.

 We started with the school bus. It was in the back so not as crowded. As soon as Ben got him out of the stroller and started to go in, Miller started asking for Mommy. He was not crying, just noticeably uncomfortable.

We tried  the megabus (we thought it might be fun since he sees Daddy take it a lot to come and join us in TN) but Miller said he did not want to go. Then we went to a tractor but all he wanted to do was run in the grass in front of the vehicles. We finally went to an open trailer with hay and despite his protests, we just stuck him in there so I could get a picture. He whined for a minute and then got super excited to play in the hay.

Our next stop was the fire truck. I waited in that line for 20 minutes while Ben let Miller run around. A few times, they came over to try to get him excited but every time, Miller shook his head and said no. It was finally our turn and we sat him in the seat. I could not even get a picture before he had turned his butt around and backed himself out. I was heartbroken! He loves firetrucks and I thought he would love this.

We decided to make a new game plan. We were just going to walk around the things and if he showed interest, we would approach it. This worked out well with the helicopter because the line was super long and Miller just wanted to see it. Ben sneaked up just so we could get this picture.

All in all, I was more disappointed than anything. I thought he would love this but instead, he was just too overwhelmed. That is okay for today but it makes me super nervous for Disney World. That will be 6 days of being overwhelmed. God help me!

Sunday was the Ice Cream Crank. The problem with this is that Ben has to help out with his firm and I have to deal with Miller. The poor kid just wants to run but mommy can not do that. He did pretty good hanging out in his stroller, especially when we began doling out ice cream.

I just looked over and saw him smiling at me. Love that smirk!

There was a fire truck there and as we were making the rounds, he was so excited to see it. I told him when we left we could go see it. I figured this is my reprieve from the day before. Of course, by the time we left, it was gone.

It was a long weekend and stressful one but it is all about making memories. Right?

Weekly Update: 25 and 26 Weeks

I promise that I am not getting behind on my weekly updates, I just had no tidbit for my 25 weeks picture. I came up with something.

How far along: 25 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: +7lbs  

Maternity clothes: I got my shirt for Halloween in and made my shirt for Disney World. I feel guilty that these things may only get worn once or twice but they are so cute.   

Stretch marks: Same old ones. I think those have been with me longer than Ben.  

Sleep: I have had some strange dreams that are really stressful but besides that I sleep fine. I am pretty sure that I could use some more though.  

Best moment this week: Nothing exciting happened this week.

Movement: She was lazy on Tuesday morning and freaked me out. Of course she has since made up for it. It amazes me what little noises she hears inside there but Ben reminded me that if it is near my belly, it is probably amplified by all the fluids in there.

Food cravings: No real cravings. I really would like some variety but I fear making something and me not liking it. We are going back to TN and I look forward to maybe going out to eat once or twice.

Food aversions:  I have had a pretty decent week with food. Of course we have pretty much had the same thing every day.   

Gender: Baby girl.  

Labor Signs: Nothing here. I still want to wait on these for another 13 weeks at least.  

Belly Button in or out? It is almost like it is closing shut but still in.  

What I miss: I miss not groaning to do anything. I waddle and creak along everywhere. We went on a leisurely family stroll in the neighborhood and Ben kept having to stop and let me catch up.  

What I am looking forward to: Still looking forward to passing the GD test in less than two weeks (not that I am necessarily looking forward to taking it). Also, since doing all of these projects and crafts for her, I am getting excited to see her in them.

Weekly Wisdom: I finally started trying to heed everyone’s advice about relaxing more. I am still doing projects and keep plenty busy keeping up with the house and Miller, but I am trying to take relaxing moments when I can get them. Mostly, when Miller is asleep at night or for naptime but even during playtime I try to just sit with him.  

Milestones: She is definitely reacting to more outside noises. They say that the baby will hear and get used to certain noises that I am around regularly. Well I think she is getting used to her brother. She hears him whine and cry and starts wiggling around. Hopefully that just means that she will be used to when she is born and they will not disturb her.

 

How far along: 26 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: +7lbs again

Maternity clothes: Since I stay at home with Miller, a lot of my summer maternity clothes did not get as much wear as they did the last  time. There are a few pieces that makes me sad for.

Stretch marks: I got a little sun last week so the ones I did have are pretty unnoticeable.

Sleep: Miller woke up early while we were in Knoxville but I slept fine when I could. I realize that I only wake up to roll over since it is so hard now.   

Best moment this week: We had a nice visit to TN this past weekend. I was able to finish up a few things for the baby and got some Christmas presents made.

Movement: I swear she is figuring out our routine. Every night after Miller goes to bed, we get dessert and milk and sit down to watch TV. About an hour later she starts wiggling around. I like to believe that she is asking for her music time which I do with headphones on my belly every night before I go to sleep. I seem to remember Miller doing the same thing. I am hoping that bodes well for her nighttime habits like I think it did with Miller.

Food cravings: Nothing special. The start of pumpkin everything season is upon us and I am quite excited to delve in.

Food aversions:  The heartburn has started up this week. I joked that I guess she is growing her hair. It is not terrible and I swear it started much earlier with Miller so I cannot complain too much.

Gender: Our lovely little lady

Labor Signs: Gosh no!  I have a doctor’s appointment on Monday where  they check and I hope that nothing is going on. Especially since we have Disney coming up soon. I am trying to balance taking it easy, and walking around to get my body ready for the trip.

Belly Button in or out? Still back there.   

What I miss: As much as I love being pregnant and will miss it, I am looking forward to getting my body back. I miss not worrying that something I am doing might hurt the baby. I miss wearing my old clothes. I miss moving around normally. However, I am going to soak up the next 3 months of having a baby bump. It does have some perks.

What I am looking forward to: I am looking forward to getting the nursery finished up. I know it is early but with Disney and the holidays taking over my 3^rd trimester, I would like to have this done.  

Weekly Wisdom: I always feel guilty when we are doing stuff and I have to sit down and let Ben take over. Tonight he told me that he knows that I have to go at a different pace. I guess that is true but I have a hard time realizing it.

Milestones: Every week down, is another week closer to meeting our baby girl (so no, I have no milestone this week).

Baby Project: Carrier Carseat Arm Pad

So many of these baby projects can probably seem unnecessary to people out there but for me, this is nesting. While I can get overwhelmed with projects and feel a bit bogged down between them and normal daily life, I truly enjoy them. Crafting projects make me feel productive and keep me happy. Being a SAHM has been a major challenge for me because there is no day to day goals other than survive. Crafting gives me that.

One project I wanted to do but did not have to, was to make an arm pad for our carrier carseat. Yes, we managed to survive Miller's infancy without one but I thought it could be a fun project. Plus, that darn carrier can be a pain to lug around so why not make something to try to make it more comfortable.

I saw them in the store and knew that I could easily make one. It was not as super easy as I thought it would be, but I like small sewing challenges. It can only help me get better!

I looked at some other blogs on-line and while they were helpful to see the basic method they followed, ultimately I could not use their measurements because that is dependent on the thickness of foam you have and your personal preferences. I knew that I had  to make my arm pad fit between the two handles of my carrier cover that I made for Miller. I also already had some 1/2" thick foam that I planned to work with.

I sketched it out and planned on starting with two panels that were 6.5" x 8.5" with the finished product being about 4.5" x 6.5". I used the underside fabric from our carrier cover. I wanted a strip of minky running along the outside so I sewed up one panel like this.

I sewed on my velcro to each panel. One gets the hooks and one gets the loops. I made sure to do this about 3/4" in to allow for 1/2" seam. 

Lay the fabrics together so they are inside out (the fronts will be touching each other) and that the velcro strips are on opposite ends. Pin and sew around three sides. I also went back and did a zig zag stitch just to make sure they were super strong.

Turn it right side out. On the one end that you already did sew, sew seams, about 1/4' to each side of the velcro so that it lays flat and that you now have a little pocket started for the foam.

 

I waited to cut my foam until I got to this point, just in case I made any huge mistakes and needed to adjust the size. I ended up with a piece that was 4.25" x 4.25". Since I only had 1/2" thick foam, I doubled up and attached with some spray mount in between the layers. 

Once you insert the foam, make sure you have enough room to have a 1/4" seam allowance away from the velcro like you did on the other side. You can always snip off more foam if you need to. Sew that foam in.

Fold in the open end and pin the heck out of it. Sew that closed along the top.

 

The one thing I am disappointed in is that you can see the green foam through the white minky. Once you get it on the handle you can not really tell though. Besides that, I am quite pleased with it. 

It is not a big round tuft like I saw in the stores but I did not want it that way. We grab the handle with our hands so much and this one being thinner allows for us to grip it that way. It is much more comfortable for our hands which is what I wanted, but we will see how it holds up when he have a baby in there. 

I really like how it looks with our carrier cover that I made last pregnancy. Little things like how they coordinate make me happy.

Baby Project: Pacifier Clips

With Miller, we definitely valued his pacifier clips. I am not germophobic by any means. In fact I am the mom who, when the paci drops on the ground, as long as it was not in dirt, I would wipe it off and give it back to him. I really hated getting looks from people who thought that was disgusting. Well a paci clip pretty much eliminated the problem. Plus, it stopped the pacifiers from getting lost.

For the past year, we have weaned Miller to only have the paci at naptimes and in the car. I had a trusty paci clip for the one on the car so when he would get mad and throw it, he could find it again when he realized he wanted it back. A few months ago, the velcro gave out on us and he could pull it off. I knew I could just change the velcro to snaps or make a new one but I kept getting sidetracked.

I finally tackled them and ended up making 6. I was only going to make one or two but once I started going through my fabric remnants, I wanted to make some to go with other outfits that Baby Bug might have. Once I got the hang of it, these things only took a couple of hours to make.

I cut a remnant that ended up being 2.5" by 8". I ended up varying the lengths by an inch or two just to try them out. One trick I have learned in sewing lately, iron everything!

Fold the fabric over so you are seeing the backside and sew a small seam.

Turn it inside out, which is a pain because it is so narrow. I used a clean chopstick to help me out.  Iron again and then sew a small seam on both sides so that it will lay flat.

Double fold it over and sew up the end. 

On the other end, pull the strip through the clip and do another double fold over (I have no idea what  the correct term is but this seems appropriate) and sew it down.

I have tons of snaps leftover from converting our cloth diapers so I installed those where they need to go. You could sew on velcro but it eventually wears out and I think the snaps are more child proof.

Aren't they cute? I like that I have options this time around with the baby.

Weekly Update: 24 weeks

How far along: 24 weeks (Viability!!!)

Total weight gain/loss: +5. That is right body, now that you have started gaining some weight, just go slow.  

Maternity clothes: We had some cooler weather this weekend and I felt completely unprepared. With Miller, it never really got cool when I was pregnant and this time I will have to go through the whole fall and beginning of winter. I did assess some things in my closet and should be okay with leggings, sweaters and jeans. 

Stretch marks: Nothing new but I need to be more vigilant with the cocoa butter.

Sleep: We are all off on sleep. Going to bed late, waking up late, Miller taking wonky naps. I am not sure what is going on but when I do sleep, I sleep fine.

Best moment this week: I pointed to my belly and asked Miller who it was. He responded as usual with,”Baby”. I asked him what her name was, and he said it. Yay! He is connecting the dots. He also laid his hand on my belly throughout this whole interaction.

Movement: This week she was trying to headbutt her way out from my belly button. She has lulls but I feel her pretty consistently.

Food cravings: I want nice, warm comfort food. Chili, soups, stews. That might just be a craving for fall though.  Thank goodness Ben is not picky with what I make for dinner.

Food aversions:  Another pregnant girl pointed out that she cannot do lean meats, only full fat meats. When I started thinking about it, that might be my problem with meat. I made chili with ground beef instead of ground turkey and it tasted great.  

Gender: She better still be a girl because I made her 23 headbands last week and 5 skirts on Tuesday.

Labor Signs: I was on my feet a lot this weekend and had lots of belly aches. I got a little nervous that they were Braxton Hicks or other contractions but it was just my body being cranky with me.

Belly Button in or out? Still very much in.

What I miss: Sometimes, I think about her being here and I already miss being pregnant. What is wrong with me?!?! I wish I could just be happy with where I am.

What I am looking forward to: I am looking forward to getting through and hopefully passing my 1 hour glucose test in a few weeks.

Weekly Wisdom: I had a major freak out about having so many boys clothes and not enough for a girl but my mom made sure to do what she could (ahem, shopping) to make that better.

Milestones: Viability is a great milestone to be at but a scary one. On the one hand, it is comforting to know that if God forbid something were to happen, baby girl would be able to survive. One the other hand, I do not want to jinx anything and even find comfort in that. I want her to get to full term status only before she makes her appearance. 14 more weeks!