C H E L S E A + B R A N D O N

Facebook & Giveaways

2012-02-13T23:01:00.001-07:00

:I decided to start a facebook page:

so, I thought I should probably be keeping up with the times and build myself a facebook fan page.

I tried this awhile back, and I'll be honest,

I was pretty horrible at keeping up with it.

but, now I'm back!

I'm determined to make this page great!

I added some pictures.

I wrote a little bit about me.

now all I need is YOU!

yes.

you.

head on over to facebook and like me.

pr-pr-pretty pluh-ease!

I'll sweeten this deal for you:

-like me on facebook.

-write on my fan page wall.

(something like "Ooo. chelsea, you're totally, like, really awesome!" will do)

-be entered to WIN a FREE childs session!

that's right.

I'll be doing a random drawing

with all the names of people who posted on my wall

at the end of this month.

winner gets a FREE session for a child!

don't have kids?

this doesn't sound like something you'd be into?

no worries!

you can give this prize to someone you love!

(your sister is going to freak that you just scored a free session for your adorable nieces first birthday.. or I'd like to think she would.)

ok.

what are you waiting for?

go like me, already!

M & D Birthday Shoots : Utah Photographer

2012-02-10T09:21:00.001-07:00

don't you just love her little romper?

her mama makes them and sells them on her etsy store!

Boudoir - Utah Boudoir Photographer

2012-01-15T20:31:00.002-07:00

setting up boudoir shoots for valentine's day!

these are great gifts for your significant other!

(and, if you're like me, also a great self esteem boost)

...email me for more info...

Baby M - Utah Newborn Photographer

2012-01-11T15:24:00.001-07:00

:love me some baby:

especially extra cute ones!

DKMS

2011-12-29T15:47:00.000-07:00

:only a life lived for others is worth living:

-albert einstein

maybe some of you know that I recently was swabbed.

you heard it right, swabbed.

after hearing a story about a little boy (right here in utah), who desperately needs a bone marrow transplant, I got online and contacted DKMS.

I didn't put any thought into it.

this was something I knew I had to do.

Q: why is there a need for people to sign-up as bone marrow donors? you may ask.
A: thousands of patients with leukemia and other life-threatening diseases depend on finding matching donors who can save their life. patients need donors who are a close genetic match. even with a registry of millions, 6 out of 10 patients NEVER receive the lifesaving transplant they need. donors of all ethnicities are needed if we are going to change this.

(taken from DKMS website)

I have thought about doing this before in the past with other organizations.

but, I'm not going to lie, the $60 charge just to be put into the registry turned me off.

that may sound horrible, but it's true.

with DKMS, they let ANYONE register.

no money needed.

funny thing is.

I willing donated the cost of the swab.

maybe it's because no one was forcing me.

I don't know.

but I was happy to.

but what I do know, is that you should all get swabbed!

don't waste time!

you could be the only piece missing in a child's road to recovery!

see on my sidebar.

over there ---------->

and down

click on it.

get the facts.

together, we can help.

Rosalyn & Cavan :Sneak Peek: Utah Bridals

2011-12-26T18:23:00.001-07:00

Vintage 1940's Engagement Shoot : Sneak Peek - Utah Wedding Photographer

2011-12-22T20:35:00.001-07:00

:1940's vintage engagement photo shoot:

here is a sneak peek of the shoot I did today!

what an awesome couple!

these 3 photos were taken at the Nook & Cranny in lehi, utah.

My BFF's Totally Awesome Family

2011-12-14T20:33:00.000-07:00

:they are totally awesome:

we decided to go out (in the freezing cold) and do a quick christmas card photo shoot.

yep. right off a main highway. no biggie.

whoa. what a great looking family my bff has.

she is expecting her second little one!

(you'd never know by looking at her)

a little BOY to join us in may!

so!

excited.

The D Family

2011-12-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Wyatt

2011-12-07T16:32:00.000-07:00

:too cute for words:

..he loves his truck!..

..love the cow on the bum..

L Family

2011-12-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

:love my family:

this is my seeester, Brynn, and her amazing family.

love these kids!

noah bug

ell-bell

we did a separate shoot for sweet baby ben

he had just learned to sit up. he does a really good job!

had to post this picture! look at that face!

Sydney - 3 years

2011-12-04T22:42:00.001-07:00

:sydney lane:

I love this girl.

..sweet baby girl..

..beautiful smile, always there to greet you..

..bluest of blue eyes, looking lovingly at you..

..smart, artistic..

..and full of it..

The R Family

2011-10-02T14:16:00.001-06:00

had a great time photographing this adorable family!

..great family..

..great weather..

..great location..

.. perfect everything..

Grandpa Chappell

2011-09-28T12:59:00.002-06:00

:Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter:

~Mark Twain

on brandons last vacation home, we had the joy of spending time with his family in their small little town down south. he has many family members who live there and it's always so much fun to visit!

on this trip, we got to spend time with grandpa chappell in his workshop.

this was truly amazing.

you see, grandpa is 91 years old.

I swear.

and he's still at it!

grandpa is a very talented craftsman.

(he actually drew the plans for our house!)

he can make the neatest things out of piece of wood.

..I would see just a tree branch..

but, not grandpa.

he sees wooden spools, decorative balls, or little boxes.

grandpa's shop

grandpa working on some decorative balls.

I love his hands. they show years of hard work.

brandon with his grandpa.

while down visiting. I started talking with grandpa. he was telling me how would love to be able to sell his items, but he just wasn't sure how.

so I told him about etsy.

and how I could help him sell his hobby.

I'm pretty sure I saw excitement in his eyes.

yes. pretty sure I did.

so, later grandpa sent up some wooden spools that he had made.

I personally love vintage wooden spools. I have seen raw wooden spools at craft stores before, but they always seemed so uniformed.

but grandpa's spools made me very excited because they really looked vintage!

each one was so unique.

so beautiful.

after getting a bunch of them, I went to work.

I started messing around with stains and string. pins and papers.

and this is what I got:

vintage inspired wooden spool name place cards

-or- just vintage inspired wooden spools

and with the larger one, just a beautiful decorative spool.

grandpa and I are both happy with the way these have turned out.

I love seeing grandpa happy to be able to work again.

these spools will be available for purchase on my etsy store.

..all profits from sales will go directly to grandpa..

Entryway

2011-09-27T13:45:00.000-06:00

:I know what you're thinking:

"holy hell, girl! you haven't updated your blog in almost 2 months!"

I know.

...and I'm sorry...

but to make up for it, I'm going to post a pic of my work in progress

my new entryway table!!

I'm in love.

..I feel like this made my home look 100x's better..

while searching for this picture on my computer, I came across many other pictures that I have yet to post on here! so, I can promise more posts to come.

I can also promise you that I will be seeing my lovely, handsome husband in 38 days.

count 'em!

...I know I am...

**Where I got stuff: TJ Maxx - got a screamin good deal on the table. Confetti's Antiques in Spanish Fork, UT for the Vintage Window. Robert's Craft for the floral above. Basket and wreath below an awesome thrift store find!

Best Seller

2011-07-25T08:28:00.000-06:00

:number 1, all time, best seller:

...I have an order for 250 "eat me" "drink me" tags...

I sell more of these little tags than anything!

and my kitchen counter has currently been taken over.

Cody

2011-07-07T12:15:00.000-06:00

:death is nothing else but going home to God, the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity:

- mother teresa

sadly, my step-brother, cody bryce moosman, passed away on june 29.

cody was very kind and loving to all he knew.

we had the funeral on july 06, and decided to have a luncheon afterwards in my parents backyard.

it turned out to be such a beautiful day.

we all had things we wanted to say, since there was no chance for goodbyes.

so, how do you get a message to heaven?

balloons, of course!

we had 29 balloons filled, one for every year cody lived.

and well all wrote messages and notes to cody.

my amazing step-dad writing his message to his son.

my heart breaks thinking of the pain he feels.

my step-brother, dillon, writing to his brother.

cody's cousin, kresha, holding his son, river.

family and friends gathered together to celebrate cody.

cody's daughter, makayla, showing brynn her notes to her daddy.

getting ready to launch the balloons all together.

and they're off!

you can barely see them in this picture, but I loved how the little boy is hanging onto the fence watching them make their way to heaven.

we'll all miss you cody!

I am happy you are having a reunion with so many loved ones who passed before.

keep watching over your sweet children.

until we meet again.

ticking away the moments that make up a dull day

2011-06-20T20:57:00.000-06:00

:my dark side:

I was driving home the other day and pink floyd came on the radio.

I started to sing along with the song:

"and if the band you're in starts playing different tunes...
I'll see you on the dark side of the moon"

and then it came to me.

make a pillow - my thought said - make a pillow of the dark side of the moon album.

this will be glorious!

(I might have shouted that in my car)

I stopped at the craft store and picked up some fabric

went home.

and made this:

perfect.

this is going in the man cave.

(aka: the basement)

I've started to make more of these, with different albums.

(I also accept custom orders)

but, for now, dark side of the moon is in my esty store.

Customer Appreciation Photos!

2011-05-29T09:10:00.001-06:00

:why is a raven like a writing desk:

I love when my customers on etsy send me photos of the items they bought!

it is so fun to see what their creative minds have done!

just a short week ago, I sent a sweet girl from florida a pack of my eat me/drink me tags and a mad hatter card.

in our emails to each other, she told me she needed them for an
alice in wonderland shoot!

what?!

how exciting!!

I had to see.

so, she graciously sent me these photos:

how cute is this?!

love love love the hat!

eat me tag

drink me tag

this turned out so great!

I love being apart of it!

D - Day (aka: Dumb Day)

2011-05-09T12:38:00.001-06:00

:I hate leaving home. I love what I do, but I'd love to go home every night:

-charlie watts

how did time fly past me?

it's always seems to do that.. pesky time.

but, what a wonderful 4 months I got to spend with brandon!

that is 3 extra months he was home!

three!

tres!

trois!

drei!

it wasn't meant to be that way.

he was originally set to leave february 21, but fate had other plans.

brandon was hired on with a great new company.

and we are so grateful for it and excited for what the future brings!

but the bummer part.

..I'm alone..

well, not totally alone.

there is always ern-doggy.

PS: please keep brandon in your thoughts and prayers

as he travels back to the middle east.

thanks a bazillion!

Our Newest Nephew: Benjamin Gardner

2011-05-03T09:20:00.000-06:00

:here he is:

04.25.2011 * 7 pounds 4 ounces * 20 inches long

heavens perfect gift.

we're all so happy to finally have ben here!

he is the sweetest little snuggle bug.

ever.

instant love.

best feeling of all time.

Baby Ben's Dr. Seuss Baby Shower

2011-04-18T13:58:00.000-06:00

:A person's a person, no matter how small:

-dr. seuss

well, we did it!

my mom and I successfully (in my modest opinion) pulled off brynn's baby shower!

booyah.

the day turned out great, with only mild freaking on my part.

(and only for like a hour before it started.. I was frantically making finger sandwiches!)

here is our food setup in my momma's kitchen. blue vinyl table cloth, plates, forks, cups, and napkins from zurchers party store. red and white strip table cloth made by yours truly

(not that they were hard, but I can toot my own horn. toot toot!).

the little finger sandwiches that I was frantically making - one is chicken salad and the other is a cucumber sandwich.

(I've included the recipes here for download.. these are both so good! thanks to my MIL for the recipes!)

peanut butter and raspberry bars, and cupcakes for dessert!

(thanks to my bff for helping me make everything! she's de bestest.)

only one picture of downstairs. what was I thinking?!

who knows..

guests were encouraged to visit the candy table on the way out!

I'm pretty sure it was a hit with the kids - but I'm also pretty sure it wasn't a hit with the parents that kids all hyped up on sugar.

sorry parents.

thanks to brynn's sister-in-law, kellyanne, for letting us use her cotton candy machine!

shower mama with her crazy eyed little boy (my sweet as punch nephew), noah.

the shower was so much fun!

I'm sure brynn would agree when I say that we're so grateful for friends and family who helped with everything!

we're also grateful for everyone who made it out for the party!

it was fab-u-lous to see you all!

the shower is over.

ben was spoiled.

now, I just need to be patient for his arrival.

..can't wait to hold the little bug..

baby showers and camping

2011-04-13T19:40:00.002-06:00

:busy little bee:

I've been busy.

yes.

it's true.

my seester, brynn, is going to be having a new baby boy very very soon.

(this makes me smile from ear to ear)

brynn saw a dr. seuss baby shower awhile back and she thought it was the cats pajamas.

so, when we found out brynn was having a sweet baby boy, we thought the dr. seuss shower was perrr-fect!

I don't normally like cartoon looking parties...

BUT.

I have really enjoyed putting this shower together!

I wont go into great detail until after, but here is a pic of some of the things I've been making for it:

also,

brandon, ern doggy and I went to wayne county to see his family

and then camping to san rafael swell with his parents.

we left friday morning and went straight to the jackson home (faun jackson! she is a mighty great photographer! check her out!).

we love it there and had a great time with them!

brandon also got to spend time with is grandpa and grandma.

he doesn't get to see them much, since he is in the middle east so often.

grandpa took brandon out into his shop and showed him how to make wooden balls and spools.

(soon to appear in my etsy store)

grandpa's work is amazing.

I can't get over what this 90 year old man can do!

so awesome!

after a fun weekend, we left monday morning to san rafael swell.

this place is gorgeous!

so much history and beauty.

if you get the chance, go there!

tons of cool hikes and atv trails.

you won't be disappointed.

where we camped:

I wish I had a camera when we went on our 4-wheeler rides.

incredible!

the wild wild west was all around me.

...I couldn't help but hum the song from back to the future III...

na na naa na na... na naa na na

da na da na da na da naa da

you know the one.

the one during the town festival.

no?

ok.

well, you should learn it.

when I get pictures from the in-laws I'll post them.

big ern was turned red from all the dirt that blew up on him on the 4-wheeler ride.

he was no longer a westie.. but now a rusty.

until then.

Spring Time Pillow Project

2011-03-28T18:46:00.001-06:00

:today I was crafty:

I woke up in a crafty mood.

I got in my car and drove.

the road lead me to joann's.

I bought some fabric.

came home.

and then I made this:

a spring time pillow for my front room!

I added some felt flowers to the pattern of the fabric.

I think it turned out super cute!

exposed purple zipper on the back that matches the purple piping.

this was a fun learning project.

you see, I have just barely started sewing.

I know.. I know..

I can't believe it took me this long to start either!

I made a rag quilt for my very first project.

then I fixed some holes in Brandon's jeans.

and now this pillow!

soooo much fun! I can't wait to start making more things!

I need to make a few more pillows to match.

do I see a tutorial and/or giveaway in the near future?

yes.

yes, I do.

Halsie's Golden Birthday

2011-03-04T14:31:00.002-07:00

:my bff is 324 months old:

since this is a very special birthday {pssst: it's her golden birthday}, we thought pictures were in order.

I made this super cute birthday crown for super cute birthday girl.

I can't believe my bff will be 27!
boy, time sure flies when you're having fun!

it seems like yesterday we were playing in the big tree that fell when you lived in the duplex.
drawing muscle bears and bunnies in speedos (don't ask).
sending your barbies down the ditch to see where they go.
burying your dads poker quarters in the yard.
playing mario party all summer with pepsi and watermelons.
having never ending sleepovers (seriously. they could last weeks.)
jumping your imark over the railroad tracks.
waiting for someone to pick us up when your imark died after jumping said railroad tracks.
going to dental assisting school together.
you getting married.
you becoming the greatest mommy.
girls trips.
endless gigglefests/dance parties in your kitchen.
and so on. and so on.

man, we've had 27 years of fun!

I might be a little jelly that her golden year is one that she can celebrate and have fun with.

I was 5 when I had my golden birthday..

{but, I do have to say that it was a pretty great year}

here's to halsie!

I love having the best friend in the whole world!

CODE: HAPPY BIRTHDAY

New In Shop

2011-02-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

:my etsy shop is updated:

holy cow.

I have suitcases coming out my ears!

(that would be wild to see)

I have been collecting suitcase for awhile now.

wanting them for props for photography.

using them for furniture in my house.

loving all of them equally.

but, sadly, the day has come when I need to downsize my inventory.

and here they are. in all their glory.

this little suitcase works great for a photography prop. it's naturally distressed in all the right places.

these 3 beauties are 1960's samsonite suitcases.

2 (teal and yellow) are samsonite silhouettes and the other (green. obviously. did I even need to type that?) is a samsonite horizon.

I am in love with these cases. and it's really hard to let them go..

sniff.

these cases are available at my etsy shop here.

Home Improvement

2011-02-19T15:00:00.003-07:00

:gettin' stuff done:

while brandon has been home, we have been getting so much done around this house!

..and it feels so so good..

for starters:

I finally got my pictures hung up in my front room.

(that only took 2 years. no biggie.)

I still have a couple of frames to fill (or not?) but I love the way it turned out!

used extra fabric and scrapbook paper I had to fill two frames. and whipped up the 'happily ever after' sign for the 8x10 frame.

little chalkboard and a photo I took while in Dubai.

cute little silhouette of ern-doggie I made.

(if you'd like to use my background for this silhouette you can download it here. OR if you have a westie, you can download the whole silhouette here. ALSO you can download my happily ever after sign here. for free! hooray!
ps: silhouette's are so easy! if you have a paint program of any kind, you can make this!)

next, we have our basement!

what?!

yes!

the basement is (nearly) finished!

here is the totally awesome, beautiful, magnificent bar! my broseph did almost all the handy work in the basement

(ie: framing, sheet rocking, tiling, finish work, and built in furniture.
and guess what?! he does this for a living.

like what you see? give him a call. he is so amazing at his craft! email me for his info chelseachilds{at}yahoo{dot}com)

the bathroom..

dang.

I love it more than the master bath.

shut the front door!

I love this tub!

the wood is leftover ipe wood from our deck.

doesn't it look spa like?

and finally - the theater!

I can't tell you how fun this room is.

at first I was kinda hesitant about having a theater. but now that it's done, I can't believe it's ours!

how lucky will our kids be to grow up with this?!

ok, so that was a mini tour of what we've been up too.

busy stuff around the childs' house.

when the basement is complete, I'll for sure be posting more pics.

I can't wait!

I will be posting more soon.

like of our park city trip!

heck yes!

The Slightest Changes; Make the Biggest Differences.

2011-01-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

:ah. my bedroom.:

I have been trying for awhile to find something to go over my bed.

meaning 2 years.

2 years of frustration.

2 years of trying to find the perfect object/picture.

2 years of knowing that I really needed some color in this room!

<<then I gave in>>

I found 3 1923 prints of state flowers from MidwestFinds on etsy.

loved them.

bought them.

prayed that they'd look good in my black/grey/white, sterile hospital feel bedroom (let's just say, not me at all)

I then bought 3 11x14 frames from the thrift store.

spray painted them... (are you ready)... lavender.

and had some custom mats made.

...and...

love.. love.. love

(here is my bed complete with color. booya. pillows purchased at Target)

love.. love.. love..

love.. love..

love..

love my new room.

Free 8x10 Print of Home is Wherever I'm With You

2011-01-18T15:50:00.007-07:00

:support to our troops:

the other day, a woman purchased my Home is Wherever I'm With You print off of etsy.

this is a custom order where I take two locations

(where you are and where your honey is) on a map and connect them.

showing love knows no distance.

with her order; she asked me to do texas and iraq. I immediately emailed the woman back and asked if this was for someone serving our country. she respond that it was indeed for her husband who was currently oversees. she wanted the print to mail to him for valentines day.

tears swelled in my eyes.

I know all to well the feeling of being without your partner. having them in another country, so far from you. where everyday is a risk.

my heart was sad and also grateful to her and her husband.

I wrote back to the woman; thanked her for their sacrifice and refunded her money.

..this got me thinking..

I would love to do this for others too.

others who may have a loved one serving for our beloved country.

whether they are in the middle east or wisconsin.

even if you are there with them (maybe we could connect your home state with your new location??)

so, let it get it out.

let it burn like wildfire.

FREE PRINT FOR VALENTINES DAY FOR THOSE SERVING!

from now until february 14 2011.

to place your order:

-please email me at chelseachilds{at}yahoo{dot}com

-state the areas in the world you'd like.

-also include your name and address for shipping.

Wreaths

2011-01-13T15:57:00.001-07:00

:who doesn't love a cute wreath?:

I made these beauties today.

I found wreaths just like these on etsy and I've totally been inlove with them..
but sadly, the merchant was selling them for about $40 each!

so, while at the craft store (aka: joanns and walmart {not really a craft store.. but they do have cheap yarn!}), I picked up the supplies to make my own.

the grapevine wreath cost me total of $4 to make. {gasp!}
the yarn wreath was a little more (because of my vintage pin I placed on it), it cost about $10 to make.

not. too. shabby.

I didn't take pictures of the process of making them. but, they are pretty self explanatory.

I will tell you how to make the spiral felt flowers:
1. cut out a circle from your felt.

2. cut a spiral into the circle by starting a cut into the outer edge of the circle and making a curved cut. turn the circle while you cut, and keep angling the cut until the scissors reach the center of the circle and you have a spiral of felt.

3. hold the circle so the outer end of the spiral faces you. Use your thumb to roll the edge of the felt in toward the rest of the length of felt.

4. keep rolling the wool felt until the spiral completely winds around itself and looks like a rose.

5. glue bottom to secure.

that's it. simple, huh?

here is the grapevine wreath on my door.

love it!

any questions on this project? email me!

chelseachilds{at}yahoo{dot}com

Blake & Nicole

2011-01-09T20:50:00.004-07:00

:so this is love:

I was honored to be apart of this wonderful day!

and lucky enough to be the photographer for the day; what a compliment!

you see, nicole's mother (my aunt-in-law) is an absolutely fabulous photographer herself.

made me feel pretty great that she trusted me with her own daughters wedding.

I hope I didn't disappoint..

it was a beautiful (but extremely cold!) day at the manti temple.

grooms family

brides family

the grooms parents had a beautiful luncheon after the ceremony at liberty hall in manti.

such a gorgeous venue!

they served caramel popcorn/mother goose popcorn as thank you treat.

they also had tons of yummy food, wassail and fudge!

faun is just an all around great artist!

she made this beautiful clock! that is hand painted!

no vinyl here!

oh my! this cake was to die for! done by pace of cakes.

this is a pastel drawing of the bride and groom. done by brandon's great uncle.

(talk about a family full of artists!)

wow!

how lucky am I to have such wonderful, beautiful in-laws?!

really lucky.

love you nicole and blake!

Hip Hip Hooray!

2011-01-07T16:09:00.001-07:00

:congrats to these lovebirds:

(image by: faund images .. aunt in-law who is A-mazing at photography! check her out!)

brandon's beautiful cousin nicole is finally marrying her handsome fiance, blake!

I am so very happy for these two!

wishing nothing but many happy, wonderful years together!

A New Year. New Beginings.

2011-01-02T09:50:00.005-07:00

:ah. a fresh new year:

I love new year! the old year, old ways gone. now a new year, new beginnings ahead.

I don't really make a new year's resolutions, but I do look forward to the things that will come in the year.

for this new year, I have decided to merge my two blogs.

lulubellephotography{dot}blogspot{dot}com will be no more.

I could just never seem to find the time to work on both.

this makes life so much easier on me. now you will find my photography on this blog (which I've already started doing).

so, without further ado:

Chelsea Marlene

the story of us.

photography.
decorating.

crafting.

parties.

etc.

nice, egh? nice for me anyway.

(if you have a lulu belle photography button, please remove it. and add my new button, puh-leez. you'll find it over there ----->)

what I did for new year

by chelsea childs:

I would like to tell you all that I went to a beautiful black tie affair at a mansion on a hillside to ring in the new year.

where I wore a gorgeous gown made of the finest silk and looked absolutely stunning. had the most expensive champagne and caviar and danced the night away.

but..

instead...

I really wore one of these.

and wanted to build something like this.

and I hung out with her.

wanted to go to bed before the ball dropped.

(but didn't)

not an exclusive affair. but still, lots of fun.

I do hope you all had a good holiday. and hope you were all safe in your travels.

here is to a FABULOUS 2011!

ps: I'm sure you are wondering where my christmas post is. well, that will have to wait. the childs' family will be celebrating that holiday a little late this year.

pps: the above post script is a hint that my love dove will be home in less than 2 weeks! booyah.

Pond Town Christmas

2010-12-21T09:51:00.001-07:00

:pond town christmas:

this happens every year in my town

it's so fun to get cozy and drive around the pond.

this is becoming a very fun tradition.

they might have had a few lights out this year, but it still beautiful.

if you ever find yourself in salem, utah during the holidays

go over to pond town christmas!

(it's free!!!)

you wont regret it

Rachel

2010-12-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

:too cute:

meet rachel.

this beautiful little girl is my seester, Brynn's niece.

she just turned one.

she is so much fun!

and LOVES to eat!

(which made this fun for me!)

happy birthday, rachel!

Letter to Santa

2010-12-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

Pearl Harbor Day

2010-12-07T08:27:00.002-07:00

"Day which will live in Infamy"

we still remember in the Childs' home.

and we will never forget.

in remembrance of the Men and Woman who lost their lives December 07, 1941

..Christmas Is Coming..

2010-11-30T21:54:00.001-07:00

:this happen today at our house:

thanks to this lady

I also put my mantel together

like, a month ago.. what?!

the empty frame is actually our christmas card holder

I took an old dirty frame and added some wire

as soon as all those christmas cards start rolling in, I'll start hanging them up there

(you are all sending me a christmas card, right?)

our family christmas elf

(that belonged to my great grandmother duke)

he sits on the mantel and watches ernie all day

then at night he goes back to the no. pole and let's santa know if big ern has been naughty or nice that day

(yes, I know I sound like a crazy dog lady. that's because I am)

I also started making these cute little

ornaments

thanks to my sweet sister for showing me how

I hope everyone has had as much fun as me decorating this year!

I can't wait for the holidays to really get going

you know..

christmas parties..

work parties..

plays..

ballets..

snow days..

food..

cookies..

pies..

Tisk. Tisk.

2010-11-29T17:00:00.001-07:00

what is my deal?!

I swear I'm alive.

I swear I haven't meant to ignore this blog.

I swear I've been very busy.

a real post tomorrow. I swear.

BFF and Family

2010-10-23T11:35:00.002-06:00

:halsie is my bff:

she has the cutest little family!

we went up to Salt Lake City for these urban shots

the first set of pics were taken on pierpont avenue, so awesome!

SLC is such a beautiful city!

halsie's daughter, sydney, is only 2

but she is SO full of it!

it's a good thing we brought a panda mask and lots of giant smarties to get some smiles

see photo:

awesome.

I looked like a creeper.

Baby Harley

2010-10-21T16:01:00.000-06:00

:isn't she sweet?:

just 4 weeks old and still so tiny

she wouldn't go to sleep for the life of me

I even had the house temperature at 80 degrees!

In The Orchard Photo Challenge

2010-10-18T10:13:00.001-06:00

:I Heart Faces is having a weekly photo challenge:

ok.. so they have for a long time. but, now I'm entering!

I always wanted to join in (they are on week 42 already!)

but I just never felt like I had a good enough photo to enter.

but this week was In The Orchard and I had done some fun birthday pictures of sydney

so I thought

what the heck

anyone can enter!

beginners, amateurs, professionals

it's fun

do it!

"..Christmas Don't Be Late.."

2010-10-01T09:03:00.000-06:00

I use this amazing company for my printing

:miller professional imaging:

if you're a photographer/graphic designer you should probably check them out!

they just came out with the CUTEST die-cut cards!

that's right.

you know you want them for this years Christmas card.

right now, if you book a session with me through the month of October, I'll design and give you your Christmas cards at cost.

that is about a 40% savings.

you're welcome.

happy holidays.

email me at chelseachilds{at}yahoo{dot}com

for more details

This is Halloween!

2010-09-24T16:45:00.001-06:00

:very excited for this years haunting:

this is the first year that I've decorated for halloween

and I'm enjoying it.

a lot.

Busy. Busy. Busy.

2010-09-14T13:21:00.000-06:00

:life has been crazy:

busy, that is.

between the yard and "fall cleaning" I feel like time has been flying!

but, the yard is done!

and here are before and after pictures of the backyard

for your enjoyment:

I can't tell you how good it feels to have those ugly weeds gone!

I am so excited to get some fall planting done

and even more excited to see the results from it in the spring!

ps: more post soon. lots of projects to talk about.

Last Chance

2010-09-07T10:27:00.000-06:00

:last chance before winter:

that I get to visit my grandparents in st. george

here they are! love them so much!

while down there, I got to take pictures for my cousin, Jordynn.

isn't she pretty?

I had a great time hanging out with family (especially my sister, sara)

I did forget to get my camera out for any other reason besides these photos.

oh,well.

nothing like a vacation.

Best 2 Years of My Life

2010-09-06T09:35:00.001-06:00

this is me & brandon on the best day of my life. do you see the happiness oozing off of us?

:happy anniversary:

me.

I'm the one you chose

out of all the people

you wanted me the most
-No Doubt

I love you.

xoxo

Raspberry Jam? Yes, please.

2010-09-01T10:38:00.002-06:00

:fresh picked raspberries:

still warm from the sun

carefully measured with delicate hands

only to be crushed.
my seester: Brynn

but made into this heavenly treat.

I know someone who is going to have a happy belly all winter.

pssst: it's me.

Nicole's Country Garden Tea Party Bridal Shower

2010-08-29T14:14:00.001-06:00

:it finally came:

and it was super duper fun.

all the decorations came together.

miss matching tea cups with bagged candy and thank you tag

the eco-friendly utensils

a mustache or glasses on a stick to add to your enjoyment.

we brought over my green fainting sofa for nicole to open her gifts on.

:it all came together:

mama jackson with 3 of her 4 cute girls.

(left to right: Makell, Faun, Chaley & Lauren)

all dressed up for the party

makell's hat was her mother-in-laws when she was younger.

don't you think she should let makell keep it?

let's take a vote.

future mrs. porter

faun wearing her mother of the bride pin.

she's so cute!

I vote yes.

please, please, please mrs. wintle.

can makell keep your hat?

the shower was a complete success!

I had so much fun putting it together!

can't wait to start planning Chaley's!

Ash's Family

2010-08-26T22:33:00.001-06:00

:ashley's family:

ash works with BFF, and I'm so happy I've got to know her!

she rocks.

and so does her family.

I've done pictures for them before

always a blast to be with!

grandma with all the kiddos

siblings

best part : the funny picture

who wouldn't want to be friends with them?

:and the last picture I'll show:

ash's insanely cute model family.

so jelly.

Fantastic Headband : So Easy To Make!

2010-08-24T14:50:00.002-06:00

:today I made this:

probably the easiest thing I've ever made

if you know how to to braid, then you know how to make this

cute linen cut in 3 strips

braid

a little bit of satin ribbon

stitch ribbon to braid

a little hot glue

glue piece of satin ribbon over stitching

done.

see.

told you so.

ps: only 4 more days until the big shower! so excited!

Backyard Time! Backyard Time!

2010-08-23T14:28:00.000-06:00

:the big backyard is getting a face lift:

and I couldn't be happier.

stop being jelly of my weeds and dead spots.

with a little ignorance, your yard can look this good.

after pictures will be posted when the landscapers are finished

I'm sooo excited!

awe.

2010-08-18T22:38:00.006-06:00

don't you just want to pinch her cheeks?

I had the privilege of doing a lifestyle shoot with my cousin and her cute little family today.

ok.

you can come home now.

I want this.

{I know, I know. all in good time.}

Whenever you wear your hat, your day will be special. -Margo Nickel

2010-08-17T18:45:00.006-06:00

as our shower invitation states "dress to impress"

{isn't this the cutest invitation? Plume Creative did them! she's brandon's cousin and she is a.w.e.s.o.m.e. she does everything fantastic! use her for your next invite, you know you want to. and you wont regret it.}

to impress?

I'll be doing just that.

:don't be jelly of my hat:

I bought this hat yesterday while out shoppping in a local antique store with my mother-in-law.

we both loved it.

ps: no, I'm not naked. perv.

Lindon Days

2010-08-14T17:59:00.000-06:00

:I live in salem, but my heart belongs to lindon:

lindon days happened last week. and honestly, I've never gone to the festivities.

until this year.

(if you count the parade and park booths as attending)

I attended with these lovely ladies

I also attended Craft Lake City this afternoon.

it was so awesome.

puh-leez go next year.

you can thank me now for telling you, cause it's that amazing.

To: Brandon

2010-08-13T22:05:00.001-06:00

hi.

i miss you.

love,
me

xoxo

Utensils

2010-08-12T11:31:00.004-06:00

..I sure hope you're not sick of my bridal shower posting..

I guess it just shows how excited I am!

:I love to throw a good party:

after spending a day with my step-dad at work (he works for salt lake county waste management), I couldn't believe how much recyclables people throw away into our dumps! he told me that 80-100 TONS of garbage is thrown away from only 1/3 of salt lake county only PER DAY! and so much of it could be recycled.

this is what 80-100 tons of trash looks like, can you see my step-dad?

disclaimer: all this trash is being recycled by rocky mountain recycling

so for the shower, I ordered natural, alternative plates and utensils. these things are fabulous! not only are they cute, but "After disposal, [it] biodegrades in 4-6 months"!! My step-dad is so proud.

spoon, fork, knife

all rolled up in a recycled napkin

then wrapped with recycled paper

and stamped with a "n" for nicole.

simple. sweet. mother earth's best friend.

this item can be found at my etsy shop

See Halsie

2010-08-11T23:34:00.004-06:00

:My Best Friend:

she is the bomb.com

her and I laugh hysterically every time we are together

she is always willing to play model for me too

see.

like I said.

bomb.com

Bridal Shower Garland

2010-08-09T15:35:00.006-06:00

I'm making this garland for nicole's (brandon's beautiful, sweet cousin) bridal shower on aug. 28th.

:I am so happy with the way it turned out:

I can't wait to post pictures of the whole shower!

Sarah's Kids

2010-08-05T20:05:00.001-06:00

New Couch!

2010-08-05T19:24:00.006-06:00

ah! the couch is finally here!

:doesn't it look great:

..wish you were here to sit on it with me..

big ern enjoying the new open area

front view

my dad's grandmothers sewing machine & my mom's grandmothers chair

side by side

the table from the "blue room" was moved to the dinning area

cute jug, grapevine wreath, bundled utensils and my awesome scale

terracotta pot with green ball, cake server with birds nest and glass bell, and a sweet little doll

this is just the refresher I needed for our home!

ah.

that.

feels.

good.

now it's time to hang some art in there

2010-07-29T15:10:00.007-06:00

I'm leaving tomorrow.

to a far off place.

a place of heat and bogus laws.

a land they call Phoenix.

while there, I'll celebrate this guy

:see you all later:

:Vintage:

2010-07-28T12:04:00.008-06:00

some of you may or may not know, but I LOVE vintage things! I love the look of a well worn item!

yesterday I was driving home from my mom's house and I decided to stop at the DI and I'm SO glad I did!

It was a great day to be a vintage shopper!

Here are some of the fantastic items I found while I was there:

:all of these items are for sale on my Etsy store:

Missing You

2010-07-26T08:25:00.003-06:00

:missing this guy:

Angel From Montgomery

2010-07-24T22:19:00.007-06:00

I am an old woman named after my mother
My old man is another child that's grown old
If dreams were lightning thunder was desire
This old house would have burnt down a long time ago

Make me an angel that flies from montgom'ry
Make me a poster of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing that I can hold on to
To believe in this living is just a hard way to go

When I was a young girl well, I had me a cowboy
He weren't much to look at, just free rambling man
But that was a long time and no matter how I try
The years just flow by like a broken down dam

Make me an angel that flies from montgom'ry
Make me a poster of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing that I can hold on to
To believe in this living is just a hard way to go

There's flies in the kitchen I can hear 'em there buzzing
And I ain't done nothing since I woke up today
How the hell can a person go to work in the morning
And come home in the evening and have nothing to say

Make me an angel that flies from montgom'ry
Make me a poster of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing that I can hold on to
To believe in this living is just a hard way to go

-John Prine

I miss you Daddy! I can't believe I haven't been with you in 3 years. I miss your smell, your touch, your laugh, your smile, your everything.

Keep watching over me.

And I'll see ya later, on the otherside.

Brogan & Ryker

2010-07-16T11:39:00.002-06:00

these two little adorable kids are my dear friend, laura's.
we worked together at ashman dental, and have remained friends since both leaving there.
laura is such a great person and a great mother!

I just LOVE her boys!

Website!

2010-07-09T22:30:00.001-06:00

get ready to add this to your favorites.

it's here

FloraBella & Skye Hardwick Giveaway

2010-06-28T08:39:00.005-06:00

if you love using photoshop actions or textures with your photography, check out FloraBella!

and right now, FloraBella and Skye Hardwick (an AWESOME) photographer/teacher are teaming up for a giveaway!

I started using FloraBella actions a few months ago, and let me tell you.. they make my life SO much easier! they are beautiful and so very easy to use.

Check them out for your chance to win!

Sydney

2010-06-16T06:45:00.001-06:00

:Sydney is my BFF's little girl:

I can't believe she's going to be 2!

Seems like yesterday she was born.

A tiny little babe, so sweet and new to this world.

Now, she's a beautiful, smart, funny toddler!

Love you, Sydney!

Happy Birthday!

A & B Engagements

2010-06-16T06:44:00.001-06:00

the countdown

2010-06-10T16:51:00.004-06:00

:the countdown has begun for this guy:

that's right, brandon will be home in 10 days.

10 days!

I may be freaking out, just a bit.

I'm spending all my time getting our home, yard and myself

ready for his BIG arrival!

I just can't wait.

Mel & Sam

2010-06-10T10:33:00.001-06:00

Alice Lane Home: Giveaway

2010-05-24T14:46:00.006-06:00

I am in love with this store!! and they are doing a giveaway!

check them out for a chance to win some awesome pillows:

:click on picture:

image by: ashlee raubach

Brandee: Maternity

2010-05-17T09:53:00.001-06:00

:Melany & Samuel: A Love Story

2010-05-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

It started out cold with rain, but then turned into warmth:

Forever

Amazing Husband

2010-04-29T12:34:00.007-06:00

today, the doorbell rang.

this is what I found

inside was this card
my wonderful husband cared for my pain. the pain that our polar cub placed on me.
the eating of my most expensive, loved shoes.

thank you, brandon! you are truly amazing!

Moosman Family

2010-04-19T15:43:00.001-06:00

Leavitt's

2010-04-12T19:25:00.001-06:00

My Sister and her totally awesome family!

C H E L S E A + B R A N D O N

Facebook & Giveaways

M & D Birthday Shoots : Utah Photographer

Boudoir - Utah Boudoir Photographer

Baby M - Utah Newborn Photographer

DKMS

Rosalyn & Cavan :Sneak Peek: Utah Bridals

Vintage 1940's Engagement Shoot : Sneak Peek - Utah Wedding Photographer

My BFF's Totally Awesome Family

The D Family

Wyatt

L Family

Sydney - 3 years

The R Family

Grandpa Chappell

Entryway

Best Seller

Cody

ticking away the moments that make up a dull day

Customer Appreciation Photos!

D - Day (aka: Dumb Day)

Our Newest Nephew: Benjamin Gardner

Baby Ben's Dr. Seuss Baby Shower

baby showers and camping

Spring Time Pillow Project

Halsie's Golden Birthday

New In Shop

Home Improvement

The Slightest Changes; Make the Biggest Differences.

**Free 8x10 Print of Home is Wherever I'm With You**

Wreaths

Blake & Nicole

Hip Hip Hooray!

A New Year. New Beginings.

Pond Town Christmas

Rachel

Letter to Santa

Pearl Harbor Day

..Christmas Is Coming..

Tisk. Tisk.

BFF and Family

Baby Harley

In The Orchard Photo Challenge

"..Christmas Don't Be Late.."

This is Halloween!

Busy. Busy. Busy.

Last Chance

Best 2 Years of My Life

Raspberry Jam? Yes, please.

Nicole's Country Garden Tea Party Bridal Shower

Ash's Family

Fantastic Headband : So Easy To Make!

Backyard Time! Backyard Time!

awe.

Whenever you wear your hat, your day will be special. -Margo Nickel

Lindon Days

To: Brandon

Utensils

See Halsie

Bridal Shower Garland

Sarah's Kids

New Couch!

:Vintage:

Missing You

Angel From Montgomery

Brogan & Ryker

Website!

FloraBella & Skye Hardwick Giveaway

Sydney

A & B Engagements

the countdown

Mel & Sam

Alice Lane Home: Giveaway

Brandee: Maternity

:Melany & Samuel: A Love Story

Amazing Husband

Moosman Family

Leavitt's

Free 8x10 Print of Home is Wherever I'm With You