The Dunne Family

Birthday Pops and Guardian Angels

2010-09-10T16:30:00.000-07:00

It has been over 6 months since I have blogged and I really never email except for information purposes, but this is too amazing not to share. This conversation on http://www.etsy.com/ all started with Candy and Planning Madeline's birthday and lead me to having an awesome experience with a stranger (and now someone I consider a friend.) I hope this inspires you to "Pay it Forward".

Conversation:

Can you make Auburn and Navy blue lollipops?
9 September 2010 11:51am EDT

by Janeglvr

You mean auburn as in a reddish brown color? If so, then yes, I can make that. Most definitely the navy blue. :o) smiles and gigglesJayne
9 September 2010 12:27pm EDT

by AmysSweetDream

well more like pumkin orange and navy. And I didn't realize you make real lollipops (the round ones) I need them for my childs birthday party on Oct 9th!
9 September 2010 2:18pm EDT

by Janeglvr

Awwwwwwwwwwww. I can def do pumpkin orange and navy in any of the shapes you choose. :o) How old will your child be? smiles,Jayne
9 September 2010 2:50pm EDT

by AmysSweetDream

She will be 1!! Her first birthday and our first child. She is having an Auburn University Tailgating party since it is on gameday. I love the round ones best. If I get them a little smaller like 3 inches, would they be cheaper or do you have bulk pricing available? I am thinking I need anywhere from 25-30!
9 September 2010 4:36pm EDT

by Janeglvr

Oh, wow!!! I'm sitting here, trying so hard not to cry. Well, hell. Since I've started typing, I am crying. I just had this feeling when you first wrote to me that this had something to do with Auburn University; it was just a strong sense I couldn't explain. I don't know quite how to say this and I really, really do not wish to cause you sadness over your daughter's birthday. If you could just think of this as a way to help me smile. Would you allow me to make this order and send to you at no charge? I will explain if you'll just promise to pay it forward and to keep making her birthdays as special as this one is going to be. I don't think I've ever heard of such a cute and awesome idea for a party. Oh....... an promise not to think bad of me because I'm an Alabama fan.Can't wait to hear back from you,Jayne
9 September 2010 6:32pm EDT

by AmysSweetDream

I just got chills. I would like to pay you something. That is alot of work! Did something happen? Of course I want to make you smile! : ) I will make everyone of her birthdays special. I love event planning and I am over the moon for her!!!
10 September 2010 1:13pm EDT

by Janeglvr

Last year, the day before Thanksgiving, my two girls, Amy then 21 ( the daughter this shoppe is named after ), and Christina, then 19 were headed to Alabama from here in Virginia. They were going to spend a few days with family and Amy was going to get things set up to begin attending Auburn University. They were going to their very first Auburn vs. Alabama game too. Both are huge Alabama fans, but Amy chose Auburn as the best place to get her degree in Wild Life Management. Both girls football fanatics. They got in a horrible wreck just outside of Roanoke, Virginia. The road had a bad part on the edge and the tire went off, she over corrected. Christina was bruised up a bit, but Amy sustained massive brain injuries and passed away on December 2, 2009. She love children, life, hunting ( serious hunter ), fishing, football, family and just living life as if there were no tomorrow. I would so love to do this for your daughter's birthday. Every young child in our family was so spoiled by Amy on their birthdays. It would make me so happy to know she's somehow still doing that. I am over the moon for my kids too and just because I can't see her, doesn't mean that she can't go on through little ways like this. I hear her, dream about her and can feel her spirit. So, she's not really gone. I think she's the one that made me have that feeling this had something to do with Auburn. :o) She was so excited about getting ready to apply and move. Smiles and Giggles and hoping you will allow me to gift this to you and your family, especially your little girl :o)Jayne
10 September 2010 2:32pm EDT

by AmysSweetDream

I am boo hooing. I cannot imagine what you and your family have and are going through. I think you must be an amazing person and such a wonderful mother. My little brother,Robert,just graduated from Auburn a few years ago in Wild Life Sciences/Management(Same age difference between Amy and Christina as the two of us.) There were 2 girls in his graduating field and I thought that would be such a neat job and very cool girls to choose that as their major. I would be so happy and touched for you to make my Madeline your lollipops. I will never forget this day, your experience, and your kindness. I have trully been touched by your conversations with me. I know you are so proud of your daughters and I know that Amy is smiling down on this whole thing. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! Jane Dunne And I PROMISE to Pay it Forward!!! I am just so touched, I cannot express my emotions.

10 September 2010 3:31pm EDT

by Janeglvr

You have made my night. Thank you so much for letting Amy and me do this for Madeline. She is beyond adorable. :o) It's awesome to know that your brother is in the same field Amy was working towards. She'd finished the two years here for basic classes and was so very excited. She should have been a boy, but was the most girly girl. Except when it came to hunting and fishing. LOL I think she had a hand in this and I can hear her now, looking at Madeline. "Awwwwwwwwwwwwww!! Look at you, cutie." :o)I will send you a message when it's closer and get your address so they are as fresh as possible.SmilingJayne
10 September 2010 5:43pm EDT

by AmysSweetDream

This is real. This is how my day started today. I am overwhelmed with emotions. I may not sleep tonight. I feel like I need to hug this Mother's neck. She will never know the effect this has had on me. I have a friend that has forwarded our Etsy conversation onto a Big Wig in Auburn in hopes to have this published. There are lots of similarities my family and I share with hers and I hope I can have the opprotunity and more to help someone the way she has helped me today. Peace and Love and Tootles!!!

(Her shop is AmysSweetDreams on Etsy btw :)

WOW!

2010-01-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! I am horrible about blogging these days but Little Wiggle (Madeline) is so much more alert these days and wants all of my attention. The rest of my time I have been cleaning and getting my new project together...KELLY'S KIDS! Yes, thats right! I am now a Kelly's Kids Sales Rep and I am so excited. I love planning parties and I just hope I can find some other mothers that like to do the same so I can bring in some income and soon. So bring it on, people!! Have a great week and HAPPY MARDI GRAS! Tootles

A Little Late....

2010-01-04T08:10:00.001-08:00

but Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

She's Here!! Madeline Has Arrived!!

2009-10-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Our precious daughter arrived Friday, October 9th at 2:46 p.m. She weighed 6 pounds 10 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long. She has white blonde hair and beautiful pouty lips like her father! We are so touched by all the family and friends that have prayed for us from day 1. Madeline is doing great eating and sleeping and she makes the cutest little chirping noices. I wanted to officially make the blog announcement and hope to update you soon. Tootles!!

Yawn!!!

2009-08-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a while since I have blogged but I haven't even had time to clean my house lately. My life has been hectic with traveling and getting the rest of Madeline's things. I don't think I know anyone that has ever been as prepared as us to have a baby. Good Grief!! Sleep or lack thereof has become a major issue. My belly is so huge that it is hard to roll over or get out of the bed, I have the worst acid reflux, I am hot, and just can't sleep. So now that you all know and I have complained a little...please pray for me as I try to get through these next 6 weeks! On the brighter side, the nursery is complete! Seth has to hang one painting and screw in the awesome drawer pulls I found at Anthropologie for the window seat storage!! Pictures will be up tomorrow. Until manana...tootles!

Madeline's Mobile Shower

2009-08-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

I hope you are all having a great start to this week. I certainly have! My mother came into town Friday night to attend my baby shower Saturday and we had so much fun visiting and getting things prepared for Madeline's arrival. We even went to Baby's R Us and Target Sunday afternoon and stocked up on everything else we would possibly need to get us started.....it took 5 hours!!

The shower was beautiful and to have so many good friends is such a blessing. My sweet peeps had the shower at one of my favorite restaurants downtown called Cafe 215. They had a delicious spread for lunch, gorgeous baby pink rose sprays on all the tables any surface imaginable, and the most devine petite fores from The Pastry Shop.

The Big Date

2009-08-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

The last doctor's visit we discussed the delivery date and since Dr. Helen is going to New Orleans the week of my due date she set up an induction date of Friday, October 9th. This was exactly what I was hoping for. This is so redneck sounding but both Auburn and Alabama have away games that weekend, our family will be prepared and she will be born before our wedding anniversary!! I couldn't be happier!

Greensboro Shower

2009-08-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

Kristy, Lindsey, Me, Laurie Beth, and Rebecca

I really have some special girlfriends and they put together a really lovely baby shower for Madeline and me this past Sunday! Alot of friends and family attended...even a couple of friends came all the way from Huntsville! We got a great mixture of cute, fun things and items we will need for everyday use!! Thank you again, family and friends!! We love you!! Tootles!!

So I Ramble..but That is Just Me!!

2009-08-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

My Mama is always very truthful and shoots it to me straight so when I asked her about my blog she said, "Well, Jane, you are very detailed and tell all!!" So to all of my readers....I appreciate feedback whatever it may be and I will try to keep things a little more to the point with more pictures!! After all, don't we all just like to look at the pictures??!! Tootles!!

A Little Scare

2009-08-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

So I am on my 4th day of back pain yesterday and it got to be so extreme that I had to put a call into my doctor's office. They told me it could be a number of things but to take two extra strength Tylenol, drink a large glass of water and lay in the bed. She told me that if the pain hadn't subsided that I needed to go ahead and go to Labor and Delivery. Luckily my hospital is exactly 4 minutes from our house because the pain did not let up and I started freaking out. The nurse advised me that it could be a bladder infection, back labor(Braxton Hicks Contractions) or more Round Ligament Pains. Seth admitted me into the hospital and they were super quick to get me strapped into all the necessary machines and take their tests. Thankfully Madeline was still super active and moving all about with a great heartbeat so she was not at all affected. I wasn't having contractions, although I have had a few random ones at the house, and so we just had to wait to see if it could be a bladder infection. AND it was with a little dehydration!! I have never been so happy to hear that but I never imagined it could hurt so bad and be such a scary thing. I am thrilled to tell you that I am on prescription medication and drinking an absurd amount of water....Seth is making sure of that!! So...all you expecting mothers, drink your weight in water!! The pain should be gone just in time to enjoy a Wigging Out birthday party tonight and Madeline's first baby shower tomorrow!! Tootles!

The Love of My Life

2009-07-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

My Man

I just love and adore this man!!! He is a DREAM and funny too!!

Finally...Art!!

2009-07-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

As much as we have been painting, gathering furniture, hanging drapes, etc. we do not have many accessories or wall hangings. I do not like to buy things in sets such as furniture. I like unique pieces and how they all come together. I also like immediate gratification but will wait until I find the perfect piece so the process takes a while. I am now at a point where I can start accessorizing the house. I can't do too much because...well it is expensive but an artist friend of mine, Amanda Hendrich came by this morning and brought over this painting. It is beautiful and we couldn't resist!! We are going to hang it above our antique chest of drawers in our bedroom for now but it could easily be transplanted to our formal dining room later!! Stay tuned for the "Birds on a Wire" painting she is doing for Madeline's nursery!!! Tootles!

Amanda will be opening her gallery in downtown Fairhope mid August. Here is a link to her blog.

http://ahendrichstudio.blogspot.com/

By Amanda Hendrich

Getting There

2009-07-27T07:55:00.000-07:00

My friend Tiffany Clark inspired this blog today. She is having a baby girl, Janie Ann, due on November 8th and she expressed on her blog how she gets a little nervous the closer to that day. For me, the closer the due date gets the more I freak out. Questions arise in my head like..can I handle this?...how am I going to deal with the exhaustion?...am I too selfish to care for a baby?...how am I going to get anything done?...am I patient enough?...how do I balance caring for her and a husband and dogs and my home and my friends and family all at the same time? We can't ever give her back, we can't put her in her kennel when she is in the way, or board her everytime we want to go to an Auburn game or other weekend trip.Then I think of what I have already sacrificed for her and how much I am already obsessed and in love with her and it calms me down. I know everything happens for a reason and Seth and I prayed about having a baby and extending our family but neither one of us thought He would work His magic so soon and we are so thrilled but this is life changing!!

Pink Stripes Galore

2009-07-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Drapes have been installed and they look magical!!!

28 Weeks

2009-07-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

We went in for the big Glucose test and an Ultrasound yesterday! Luckily I passed the sugar test and everything was in its right place when we went in for the ultrasound. She was a little stubborn but because I eat sugary sweets all the time...the sugar drink didn't phase either of us and we had a hard time getting her to move anything but her kicking legs. The tech gave us a few 4D pictures so we wouldn't have to come back for another visit or pay out the extra $150. The two seconds she didn't have her hand and the umbilical cord in front of her face, we got some good shots. Here are a few....Enjoy and Tootles!!

Our Princess

Lips from her Daddy...Cheeks from Me
Lashes from her Daddy...Nose from Me

Nursery Update

2009-07-21T15:35:00.000-07:00

This week we will have the nursery finished except for a few nic nacs like a lamp or two, throw pillows, wall decor, a rug, etc. The chair and ottoman came in yesterday, we have moved the dresser in and the crib skirt is on and fluffed. The drapes and window seat cushion will be installed on Friday!!

I just sat in the glider and rocked and cried my eyes out yesterday thinking of how blessed we are to be given this miracle...this brand new life. I am so touched by the prayers and thoughtfulness of friends and family that surround us. I want to be the best mother I can be and teach her God's purpose and try to be the best example of a woman I can. Before the tears start to roll again, I will post these many pictures of the updates made up until today!! Enjoy and Tootles!!

So far...

Glider and Ottoman-I adore ruffles!!!

Accent Pillow

Antique Pine Server- Changing Table

The Chandelier

A crib made for a princess!!

Baby Duvet

Antique Stroller for her to push her baby dolls in!!
My Grandmother Glover gave this to me when I was tiny.

The renewed and improved antique dresser!!

Bugaboo Bee Stroller...after a recall, we finally got it worked out and got a working one!!

Say Cheese!!

2009-07-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

I have been searching and researching for a while now for an awesome camera we could have for when Madeline is born. I have a great pocket sized digital camera that Seth gave to me for Christmas one year (it is about the 5th one I have had). I am terrible with watches and cameras but I have taken great care of it and it is great for my purse. He has one for work that he uses on the job sights but we rarely use it for personal use. Anyway, I just wanted to be able to capture every grin, roll and wrinkle on our baby and I finally found the perfect camera for our family. Arden Ward (our amazing wedding photographer) recommended that we get a Canon. She said the 400 or 500 would be excellent so that is how I started my search. We ended up getting the Canon EOS 500D (Digital Rebel T1i / Kiss X3 Digital). It is amazing!! Arden was right and Canon is #1 rated in the "digital" world so that made me feel better about this big purchase. I have been practicing and here are just a few of what I have gotten.......Tootles!!!

our little watch dogs

ME...Seth was playing around

Crepe Myrtle at Daddy's

on the way to Tuscaloosa

Weeeeee're Baaa-ackkk!!

2009-07-21T09:30:00.001-07:00

Laurie Beth, Me, and Lindsey at the river

We are back from our trip back home and it was wonderful. We got to spend alot more time at my mother's house than usual and it was great. I slept in until 11:00 one morning and she made me waffles. Mmmm! She makes the best homemade waffles. Seth helped her to replace some boards and lattice on her fence, I helped her order and design a baby invitation for a shower she is helping host and we picked up Madeline's freshly stripped and repainted/distressed dresser!! For the second part of our trip we went to the farm and ate, ate again, went to the river and ate some more!! It was great!! We are back in Mobile now getting the nursery finished this week except for a few nic nacs. I will be sure to post pictures later today!! Tootles!!

Heading Home

2009-07-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Seth left his job at Case Construction Monday of this week to look for another opportunity in the same field. While he has some time off, we thought it would be good to make a trip to Tuscaloosa and Greensboro to see our families and relax! We love going...we always have such a great time, eat good food, and because we have 5 whole days, we will see lots of friends. Will be sure to post about our trip once we get back!! Tootles!

Updated House Pics

2009-07-14T16:56:00.000-07:00

We have been working so hard to get different rooms painted and ready before Madeline's arrival. You will notice that we don't have much on the walls or accessories but that will come in time. Also Madeline's room is clearly still a work in progress but I hope you enjoy!! I am loving everything we have done so far!! Tootles!!

26 Week Apt.

2009-07-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

I just love it when Dr. Helen says, "everything looks perfect"!! This was the first time I have been in to see her and didn't feel nervous or scared. Madeline is so active, I swear she never sleeps, so feeling her kick all the time has put me at ease. She was steadily kicking when we listened to the heartbeat which was at 160 today. It was 147 4 weeks ago. I go back every two weeks now and next time we will get an ultrasound...she has one little concern but nothing major so we have to get that checked out and I will have the big Glucose test then. YUCK! Only 14 more weeks and I have a feeling that is going to fly!! Happy Summer!! Tootles!!

God Bless America!!

2009-07-06T08:12:00.000-07:00

I wouldn't say this was a typical 4th of July for Seth and me. We are usually on the water in a boat somewhere with cold drinks in our hands. This year we worked in the yard, thankful we have the freedom to have been able to choose our yard and do what we want with it. Friday, we went down to Orange Beach to hang out with a large group of our West Alabama friends and then Saturday and Sunday we worked to plant a Crepe Myrtle, pull weeds, dig up roots, stumps and old ratty plants. I planted a few pots and fertilized everything I could. Seth cut, edged, and weedeated everything. The yard needed it and it looks amazing!!

Hopefully soon I will have something exciting to write about for better entertainment, but for now it is just cleaning out drawers and closets while I can still can!!! Tootles!

Baby Bump

2009-07-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Me at 25 weeks!! (6 months 1 week)

Loosing It!!

2009-07-02T09:21:00.001-07:00

It is official! I am crazy! Anyone that knows me, knows that but I have really lost it! Here are my last 2 "incidents". The other major one is..well too complicated to explain.

#1. I was watching the CMT awards, which I never do, one weekend and was totally getting into it. I cannot stand the girl that sings in Sugarland. The only song I can tolerate is "It Happens" and only because my friend Laurie Beth loves it and I think she is funny. But the girl gets on my last nerve. She half stomps, marches and dances when she is on stage (like that is cute) and she is just so manly. I call her the beast. I know that is mean but it is just something I can't help. Anyway, I am losing it every time she got on stage to perform or accept an award. I even updated my status on Facebook because I was getting so upset with watching her. The whole time I am Blackberry Messaging with Rebecca to tell her all about the awards and was so excited when Taylor Swift won video or song or whatever of the year. She finally says to me, "Jane, you do know that you are watching a rerun? The awards were on last week." Gah!!

#2. I have made a summer reading list for myself since I have some free time on my hands this summer and because I don't always have company laying out with me. The Twilight series was on my list and I have gotten so wrapped up in them. I finished the first two books and borrowed the last two to take on family beach trip #2. Well, I am almost finished reading "Breaking Dawn" thinking it was the third book. It is the LAST book. So sad that I have been reading these books out of sequence and never even realized it until of course someone on Facebook brought this to my attentions!! Gah!!

And to think...I am about to be a MOTHER!!! Tootles!!

Father's Day

2009-06-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

We had such a relaxing Father's Day weekend. We went to Fort Walton Beach and I got to enjoy a long beach vacation with my Daddy and Seth. It was so special for me to get to spend that time with them and I know next year will be even more special since Madeline will be here. We ate some delicious food at Hightide, Pandora's and the amazing Seagar's.
Now we are back home cleaning and re-packing to head to Orange Beach for family beach trip number two. This is a yearly trip we take with my Mama, Grant, Kelli, Dalton, Katelyn, and Robert. It is always loud and crazy but soooo much fun!! Tootles!

Castles and Crowns

2009-06-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

For Christmas 2010!!

Peacock Bubble for Fall of 2010!!

I am crazy and obsessed! I just got their new 2009 Fall/Winter Collection Catalogue and ordered 3 outfits for Madeline for next fall-winter! I hope she is not monster huge so she can wear them because they are so stinkin' cute!! Here are some pics. The other outfit that is not shown is for Halloween and the shirt matches a Halloween apron I have!!! Tootles!

On a Roll!!

2009-06-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

Madeline's Very Own Chandelier

Yesterday, Seth and I rocked when it came to getting things done! He got the dents pulled from my car where someone slammed their car door into mine. He also had someone lined up to take a look at our old appliances and hopefully they will buy them and get them out of our hair!

I ordered our glider, ottoman and stroller. We ended up going with the Bugaboo Bee. It is so compact, user friendly and cute!! I also ordered a few things from Ballard Designs while they are having their summer sale. We will be hosting a huge couple's wedding shower and Madeline's Dedication reception here at the house early next spring so I was getting a few things to spruce up our outside. While shopping I found a fabulous chandelier for Madeline's nursery!! I had seen it before and flagged it for a boy's nursery but it will work in her room just as well. Above is a picture of it. I ordered small dupioni silk lampshades for it in ivory and the matching chain cover. I love how it has an antique gold finish like the crib and crystals! I cannot wait until everything comes in and it is complete!! It will be the most fabulous room in the house for sure!! Tootles!

22 Weeks and Going Strong!!

2009-06-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

Scary face but this is what I look like at 5 1/2 months!!

I am so relieved that our doctor's appointment went well today. I was very worried going in because last night I had the worse stomach pains ever. They were so sharp and piercing, I thought I wouldn't make it through the night. Scary thing is that I have the highest tolerance for pain and I just couldn't imagine what labor must be like after all that! Dr. Helen told me that it was a mixture of gas, Madeline moving and my ligaments and uterus stretching. She said that I have such a small frame that it will definitely hurt more for me than normal because I have so much more to stretch. I have only gained 7 pounds and when she measured my stomach she said it measured small but that I am okay. Madeline's heartbeat was between 139-144 when she checked it. She was moving and kicking while we were there. She also checked to see if I was dilating prematurely but I am not. Whew!!
Amanda and Cheryl, the seamstress came over to measure for the drapes, window seat cushion, and crib skirt after the doctor's appointment. The striped silk fabric is in and so she can get to sewing. Everything is coming together and it is a good thing because this baby will be here before we know it!! Take care and I will see you soon!! Tootles!

Just A Lil' Plug

2009-06-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! I just wanted to take a minute and plug my friend Amanda's blog. It is fabulous! She is not only one of my best friends but an awesome designer at Villa Dauphine in Mobile, AL. She has helped Seth and I beautify our home piece by piece and she is now helping us design the perfect nursery for Madeline. Please visit and become a follower of her blog at Interiorphilosophy.blogspot.com Maybe you can get some ideas for your own home!!

Precious in Pink

2009-06-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

I finally found the perfect daygown to bring Madeline home in!! I knew I wanted to have our children, boy or girl come home in a Mela Wilson heirloom daygown and I found the perfect one. I knew it would have to be pink but I didn't love the shadow stiching or embroidery on the ones I have seen in stores. The one I chose is beautiful with lace and a white rose bud detail. It is lovely and the best part is that she can wear it up to at least 9 months!! Tootles!!

Happy Sunday-Funday!!

2009-05-31T15:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been a very productive one for Seth and me. Yesterday, Saturday, I layed out and got roasted. I caked myself in SPF 30 and have a good base tan so I thought there would be no way I would burn...but I burned from neck to toes!! Today we visited good friends, ate lunch downtown and came home to work on some things around the house! I, in the nesting stage am in high gear!! I started painting in the laundry room (with lots of breaks to get away from the fumes) while Seth filled in a space between the microwave-oven combination and the cabinets. The yard man came over and trimmed up the vines and gum drop trees along one side of the backyard. We had about 4 friends come to visit while we were trying to get things taken care of but it was great to see them. I will definitely sleep well tonight and then it will start all over tomorrow when Madeline's nursery painter comes back to do the second coat and trim. Whew!!

Before the Pink Explosion

2009-05-27T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!! Just wanted to update you on the progress of the nursery. Seth has the painter coming at some point this week so I have been pulling out nails, taking down hardware, taking off electrical outlet plates, and cleaning. I had to get the Goo Gone out because Olivia, the little girl that lived in the room before we bought the house put stickers and tape all over the door!! AGGHHH!! Guess I have that to look forward to! The painter has alot to do including: repainting the doors, baseboards, the ceiling and walls which are very tall!! I have posted some before pictures of the nursery and a before picture of the dresser that my mama and Grandmother Glover bought for me at an antique auction when I was 2. I am so excited that we can use it again. The paint we chose is called Pink Damask by Benjamin Moore. It is really creamy with a touch of pink. I don't want the room to be too pinkalicious!! Heavens NO!! Although, Seth said "Give my little girl PINK"! He is excited!!

Antique Dresser that clearly needs work!!

The crib will go in between the two windows.

Closet, Fireplace, Window Seat Obviously

Let Us Be Clear on The Name!!

2009-05-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

Madeline's full name is Madeline Patton Dunne. Madeline is pronounced with the end sounding like WINE. We want her to be called Madeline or Maddie Patton. NOT Maddie, MP, or any other form of abbreviation. I am sure her little friends in school will later come up with something but for now it is very important that we practice using these names so that they will stick!! Tootles!

More Nursery Talk

2009-05-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of the two new pieces that will go in Madeline's nursery. The changing table and dresser are antiques that my parents bought to go in my room when I was a baby. We will have them repainted and distressed as soon as we bring them home from Greensboro. Noni and Pop (Seth's parents) have ordered a custom 8" crib mattress for her so it will be extra soft and plush. Think she is spoiled much??!! I will be sure to keep the pictures coming with updates!! Tootles!!

Iron Crib in Antique Gold Finish

Glider in a Cream Colored Cotton Duct

Nursery Plans

2009-05-16T07:51:00.000-07:00

Madeline's nursery will be done in variations of pale, soft pinks and creams. We want her room to be sweet, soothing and elegant so we have picked fabrics in silks and linens. The bumper, duvet and accent pillow are coming from Pom Pom Interiors. This is the same company Seth and I ordered our bedroom duvet and euro shams from. It is all washable linen which will be perfect for an infant. The curtains, window seat, throw pillows and crib skirt we are having made from silk fabrics. Some are solids and some are striped. I can't wait to put it all together!!

Linen Bumper in Pink

Accent Pillow for Glider and Matching Baby Duvet both in Pink

It's a GIRL!!!

2009-05-15T03:02:00.000-07:00

Holy Cow!! I do not know where to start! We are sooo shocked and excited for our precious little Madeline Patton!! We went in for our 18 week checkup and ultrasound today and came out with the biggest surprise!! Seth and I both thought Baby Dunne was going to be a boy...have only looked at boy nursery ideas and have even bought a few boy outfits. Well...WRONG!! I think it will take a little while for it to really sink in, but we couldn't be happier!

We had planned on going into all of our doctor's appointments alone but when it came down to it..we had to have our mothers there. Seth and I went in the ultrasound room by ourselves at first to make sure everything is healthy and to find out the sex. I gulped down a huge glass of sweet tea in the waiting room to get her moving and it worked. She was flipping all over the place but is certainly going to be stubborn we know because for a while she refused to untuck her little feet from under her bottom. (Gah, I just said bottom!) She finally participated and she is definitely a girl!! Mama and Miss Susan came in and saw her on the screen and were just as surprised as we are. It was such a precious moment for all of us! We immediately called my daddy and our siblings with the news, texted our friends, and updated our Facebook statuses. Seth and I went in to see Dr. Helen and she said we are both as healthy as could be and she would see us back in 4 weeks!!

As soon as we left Mobile Infirmary, Mama and I went straight to Villa Dauphin where my dear sweet friend, Amanda had gorgeous pink and cream silk and linen fabrics and bedding ideas all laid out for us. It was perfect! We have to take measurements, paint, order and we will be on our way to pink princess heaven!! Afterwards we went to two children stores and bought 3 outfits. It was one of the most special days I have ever had in my life and it will only get better!! I will be sure to update and post some nursery ideas ASAP!! TOOTLES!!

A Weekend at Home

2009-05-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well...we survived the crazy busy weekend in Greensboro/Tuscaloosa!! My niece, Katelyn had a dance recital Saturday morning at my high school Alma mater, Southern Academy. It was great to run into past teachers and friends while I was there. Seth did not make it..for he was having his own fun at the farm, but he did make it to Dalton's 3rd Dump truck Birthday Party!! He loves trucks, rocks, and digging for anything so the theme was perfect. From there, we went to Tuscaloosa to take Mama out for dinner and to the movie "The Soloist". I do not recommend going to see it at the theatre! But it was nice to have that time with Mama and Robert. The whole weekend was so fun and besides seeing Daddy we got our visiting in with everyone until our big family beach trip next month.

As soon as we got back home last night our friend Wayne came over with his 9 month old daughter, McKenzie. I kept her busy playing while her daddy and Seth moved out the old kitchen appliances. I have ALOT of cleaning to do before the new ones arrive tomorrow. The wiring was done poorly and dangerously so we are both glad we went ahead and decided to make this upgrade before Baby gets here. We want everything to be safe. We will have a new post up Thursday night or Friday for the announcement of Baby Dunne's Sex so stay tuned!! Tootles!!

2009-05-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Village of Baytown Wharf SanDestin, FL

Maxin' and Relaxin'

2009-05-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh! We are back from Seth's Birthday Weekend Beach Getaway and it was awesome!! All we did was eat, sleep, lounge, and shop. We did swim some laps in the pool and walked on the beach one day...to make ourselves feel better after all we ate! The baby didn't like the Tempura Lobster Roll I ate Friday night and was moving all over the place. First time I have been able to feel it move.
We laughed and were silly and it was so fun. We even named the Yukon's navigation system Thara Thue...Sara Sue with a lisp and were crying every time we thanked her for her guidance.

Now that we are back home...Seth is of course back at work and I am always on the search of my next "life" opportunity whatever that is. At least I am getting tons done on the house. The new kitchen appliances have been ordered and will arrive next week. I call it "baby proofing"...Seth calls it stupid. haha!! Now if we can get the laundry room and nursery underway..I will be a happy camper for 2009.
We have something going on every weekend in May so I will be sure to keep our updates a comin'!! Tootles!!

Just an Update

2009-04-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

Good Morning, ALL!! Seth and I are so excited that the weather has been so beautiful lately. I have been working every other Saturday and Sunday at a children's boutique called Tiny Town and although I loved the other women I worked with..it just wasn't working for my marriage or social life to have that schedule. I am now free from it and can enjoy my last summer before becoming a mother. Speaking of parenting...Seth is wonderful and goes with me to every doctor's appointment but that will soon taper off I think since the fun appointments will be over with after this next one on May 14Th. We should find out if the little peanut is a boy or girl that day!! We have picked the names...Joseph Cooper or Madeline Patton...all of which are family names except for Madeline but I have been obsessed since I was little.
Seth's 28Th birthday is this Friday, May 1st (same as my mother's) and we are going to Fort Walton Beach/Destin to get away for the weekend. We both need it! Just some romantic time alone will be nice. I can't ever think of a time when we just went by ourselves..I get so caught up in all my girl's beach trips every summer. I will be sure to take enough pictures to get some good ones up on the blog. I have to get better at my photography skills with this little one on the way!! My photographer, Arden Ward has suggested a camera we buy so we have excellent home photos but I will start working with my pocket size one first. I admit...I have been a slacker! Until next week...TOOTLES!!

This Baby is a Wild One!!

2009-03-31T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have a wild one in my belly...must take after his mom!! I have "morning" sickness, ya'll and it ain't fun. He must get lively at night because that is when it hits me the hardest. What a stinker! Other than this, everything is going just perfectly. I have been able to sleep much better and I have started the nesting stage..early I think. I am naturally a "nester" but we have been in high gear at the house getting it super clean and prepared for baby's arrival!! We have a while but my list is constantly growing. One exciting thing we did this past weekend was trade in my cute little car for a cute big car. We will need the much needed space for as much we are on the go.

Our next doctor's appointment is on April 14th, hopefully we are right on track and while there can schedule our next visit which will be to reveal Baby Dunne's sex. Seth and I both think we are having a boy but we really don't care as long as it is healthy. I haven't gained any weight...actually lost some from being sick. Trying to eat right and stay in my exercise routine at the gym when I have the time.

2009-03-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

Wow! Its been a while...again!! But I REALLY have a good reason to keep our blog updated now!! Seth and I are expecting to have a baby!! We are so excited! We found out Febuary 10th and boy did we have a hard time keeping such an amazing secret for 4 weeks after. We wanted to wait and share the news with our family first and make sure our first doctor visit was successful. So much can happen in those first 2 months that we wanted to be careful. Our first doctor's appointment went perfectly. We had our first ultrasound and heard the heartbeat and it was amazing. I cried and Seth just had the biggest smile on his face the whole time. Our doctor, Helen Rogers is so wonderful and special and we couldn't have asked for a better OBGYN. Anyway, we are due to have Baby Dunne on October 15th which is 2 days after our second wedding anniversary...so I am hoping we will have "shim" a little sooner!! I have always wanted to be a mother...not a school teacher or an astronaut but "a mommy" and it looks as though all my dreams are becoming true. Seth is also so happy and just knows he is having a "studly" young lad but we shall see!! WINK!!

Holidays

2009-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Ya'll!! I've been a very busy bee the last few months and haven't been able to find the time to post! We had a fabulous Christmas with all of our family and friends. From the annual Turtleneck Tacky Christmas Party, 5th Annual Hatcher Party,Eggnog Extravaganza, Cider Hen Party,The Red Barn/Miller Barn Party,much cherished Family Time, Quail Hunting and watching the disastrous Moon pie Fall on New Years ...it was marvelous!!

Seth has been intensely bidding new jobs and successfully landed the St. Luke's expansion! I am so proud of him. I have decided to put school off for the semester and focus on finding a long term career. I will start school back up next semester..taking a few night classes until I finish up.There are a few great possibilities so keep me in your prayers!

We are getting ready for spring and can't wait to have more pool parties! Yippee!! The projects we are taking on now consist of remodeling our laundry room and master closet. We have taken all hardware down, puddied, sanded, and prepped for painting the closet this weekend. The materials are in and as soon as the installer is free to perform his custom magic...we will be done with that! I am an OCD freak (Seth says) because I HATE clutter and I am constantly going through, cleaning out and organizing every possible nook in this house..and drives him crazy because he is the packrat (as I say). Next we are tiling the laundry room, painting the walls, cabinets, and shelving. And thanks to our special friend, Amanda the house looks more and more fabulous with everything she has helped us pick out! I hope to have pics up soon as possible!! Until next time...tootles!!

A Spooktacular Halloween

2008-10-25T13:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!! As everyone in America right now, Seth and I are trying to cut back on some luxuries such as trips so we stayed in this weekend instead of making the long hike to Huntsville. We have given our home lots of much needed TLC this weekend!! Our yard and house are finally spotless and the front porch is finally decorated for fall!!! Its about time too, because I have had everything just laying out there for at least 3 weeks!! As we were spending the day outside we met several of our new neighbors and of course got hit up by the boyscouts and cubscouts selling their annual popcorn.

For the past two years we have been the co-hosts of a Halloween party in West Mobile and we are just burned out. After all the baby, wedding, and football parties that we host, we decided we wouldn't do it this year. We are thinking of enjoying our new little trick-or-treaters, party hopping around Mid-town and helping our old roomies (Paul and Amanda) decorate for their's!! In the past I have gone as Rainbow Bright and a Wizard of Oz Scarecrow and Seth as the Toothfairy and Spiderman!! We are usually very proactive when it comes to getting our costumes but this year...we waited until the last minute but turned out pretty great. I was a 1920's Flapper named Talula Dynamite and Seth was a perfect Napolean Dynamite. Happy Halloween!!

Our 1st Anniversary...We Made It!!

2008-10-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Seth and I celebrated our 1st Year Anniversary yesterday. It was wonderful. We have truly become each others best friends and supporters over the 4 years we have been together. Each day we grow even stronger as a couple and I cannot wait to spend 75 more years with him!!

We exchanged our gifts early in the weekend just because we could not wait!! We went to dinner at the Bakery in Midtown and it was delicious!! It was one of the only restaurants open on a Monday night in Mobile and we actually ran into Miss Susan!! After dinner we went home and watched our wedding video. The ceremony was so sweet and since we were honestly not able to pay attention during the actual ceremony it was great to listen to the message! The reception was a blast and the advice caught on tape was priceless. There was lots of Auburn vs. Alabama bantering but plenty of great marital advice as well! We have the most awesome friends and family!!

Home Sweet Home

2008-10-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

To our family especially because you do not have Facebook or Myspace accounts, I thought this would be a good way to read up on what Seth and I are doing in our lives!! As you all know we moved 2.3 miles down the street from our first home into a new house in the Oakleigh Historic District with much more needed space. With Seth, Amos, Little Hefner and me, we were definitely growing out of our first one.."The Project" as we call it. We moved into our beautiful new home on July 25th or I should say we started the "move in " process on that date after living with our very kind and patient friends Amanda and Paul for six weeks. That was an experience...4 adults, 4 dogs and a devil of a cat that swatted at Hefner and me several times! At least Lola (the cat) made a bond with Seth!! We have just had to do minimal work which has consisted of ripping down wallpaper, painting, recovering Gran's furniture that was left to us and making a wish list of all the new furniture we would like to fill our home with one day. Today...I walked down the stairs and I stopped midway down and thought "this finally feels like home." It has is 9 days short of a year since we were married and SOOO much has happened for us during this year. Its been a roller coaster for sure, but we are happier than ever and we are ever thankful for the family and true friends that have stuck by us and supported us. Seth is starting his 3rd year at Case Construction and I just started back to school at The University of South Alabama to pursue a degree in Communications/Public Relations. Its hard getting back into it but I proudly have to tell you that my grades are better than ever...maybe since I am more focused on the academic aspect vs. the social aspect of school. We are enjoying Auburn games and getting to be with old friends as well as new and praying for a great rest of the season. We hope you have a great fall and I will be updating as often as I get the time!! We love you and WAR EAGLE!! Joyfully....Jane G. Dunne