I have a feeling that little sweetie won't be needing that kennel
I predict she will be snuggled in or by your bed before much longer.
I've had good luck with the piddle pads, I buy the Underpads at Walgreens that are actually for people but look the same but are cheap and work well. It doesn't seem to confuse them and handy to have during the night or bad weather. Winnie can detect weather that doesn't suit her before I open the door and will opt for a paper. Sometimes I'm glad as I don't want to clean wet or muddy feet!
When we first got her I bought a 6' round pen & set it up in our back room where we spend a lot of time. It was big enough to put her kennel and a piddle pad. I just left the kennel door open and put an old towel inside. Nice to have when I couldn't keep an eye on her and at night. Under the pen I had a 6'round vinyl tablecloth to protect the floor. I also took her outside and it didn't take long for her to get the idea she had a choice. My little male will also use them from time to time but my big Poodle pays them no attention.