Julie Harrell: Photographer

Goodbye Blogger blog...

2011-03-07T13:59:00.000-08:00

You can find me and my new blog/website at julieharrell.com.

I'm still setting up shop, so you will probably notice changes each visit. If you have this blog in your google reader, remove it and update it with julieharrell.com.

Thanks for reading, and I'll catch you on the other side.

Cheers,
jewels

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

Wow, that was a long two months away from my blog!! I have a ton to update, but I thought what better a time to share a couple photos of my girls than today. Juliet is still on oxygen, but since she ripped out her nasal canula and needed new tabs to hold it on her face, we did some photos with her tube-less. She's getting so big and strong. I'll share photos of her journey with-in the week. I've been putting together a long post to fill in gaps and details with some photos of her stay in the hospital and coming home. I love my family of 5 and having little Juliet with us to celebrate Christmas was the most perfect gift for us this year. Merry Christmas.

Cheers,
jewels

Introducing the Littlest Harrell ITS A GIRL

2010-10-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

We just welcomed into the world Juliet Adele Harrell.

I went into labor at 1am, and gave birth at 1:45am. Juliet is stable right now, but we ask for prayers as she is going to be transported to Seattle. She has pneumonia due to meconium in the lungs. She will be on oxygen for a few days. The situation, though not uncommon, is a serious situation for how far into Juliet's lungs the meconium traveled. I was able to see her for a few moments, but it will be a couple days till I can hold her though. I'm pretty anxious, so please keep us in your prayers and thoughts.

Date: 10.31.10
Weight: 8lbs 6oz
Height: 20 inches

Cheers,
jewels

A Walla Walla Wedding

2010-10-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

I know so many people have been waiting, patiently??, for these photos, and finally I'm sharing them on the blog! Amy and Brian were married in their home town of Walla Walla WA (home to some of the best wine I've ever tasted that sadly this time I didn't get to drink. But the growing baby will thank me I'm sure). I've known Amy since college, and so it was very special for me to not only witness their marriage, but to be the one to photograph it. I know all photographers say "its an honor to be chosen as your photographer..." But really it is! And even more so when there is a history of friendship. :) The whole day was inspiring and the emotion between Amy and Brian just filled the church and their homes with smiles and good memories. The reception location was Amy's parent's house. The backyard was strung with lights and flowers, and great music flooded the air. I could talk all day about how beautiful Amy was, and how much I loved the color of the bridesmaid dresses, or how I could hardly photograph the groomsmen with out dying of hysterical laughter, but I'll share the photos instead. Good plan?! I think so!

Cheers,
jewels

Clara Joyce

2010-10-08T22:44:00.000-07:00

I have been such a bad "mommy" photographer lately. I keep my camera tucked away, and often forget to photograph the most special little ones in my life!! My new years resolution is to photograph our daily life more, and blog about it. I have to say I love my girls (and maybe will soon get to love a little boy?) so much, and really want to capture each moment of their lives. I have got to be better about it. You know the saying, "The cobbler's children have no shoes?" Well if I'm going to be a "cobbler" my kids better have nicer shoes ;) Ha ha.

We spent a weekend at my parents celebrating my sister's 27th birthday (and Tracy, I had a 5 year old and was pregnant at 27, just putting it out there). I made Tracy an Apple pie for her birthday. This time I used a little bit of cornmeal in the crust, sooooo delicious! I'll share a pic or two of the pie, and even the recipe sometime soon as well. The pie was easy to photograph, but Clara on the other hand was not. She really is a pill to capture in a photo. It took myself, my mom, my dad, Chris, Tracy and my brother in law Brandon all working together so I could snap a few decent frames of this 18 month old (adorable) stinker! So now finally I can share some updated photos of my baby. She only has a couple more weeks (days?) of the title "baby", so I've been using it liberally with her. I overheard Madeline tell her, "Pretty soon you aren't going to be the baby anymore, and won't get all the attention." I think this will be a day for Madeline to celebrate; maybe with more Apple pie?

Cheers,
jewels

OUTAKES: There will be tears, its the Clara way.

And of course the apple pie :)

Well Hello Gorgeous Family! Bonney Lake Family Photographer

2010-10-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

The past 3 years the Fuller's photos have been taken with all the traditional fall colors. This year we decided to mix things up a bit. I think I want my family photos taken in the same location. I cannot get over how much the children have grown or how much of a little model the oldest Aly is! She had all the right poses :) Dee, great job on the outfits, and I love the girl's hair clippies :) And yes, there are a TON of images, but I am having too hard of a time narrowing down favorites yet again, so thanks for letting me post them all ;)

Cheers,
jewels

Kaleia Turns 1 Bellingham Children's Photographer

2010-09-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Meet the Rush family... I so wish I had a last name like that. Think of all the possibilities to be pun-ny. But better than their last name is their adorable family. When looking at the photos the other day, a friend commented, "Its too bad their girls don't have the most beautiful eyes you've ever seen or anything!" Yup, they are definitely heart breakers in the making. Thanks for a great evening shooting around town Brian and Shannon!

Cheers,
jewels

First Day First Grade

2010-09-07T12:24:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we had a major dilemma last night, the outfit Madeline had been dreaming of wearing to her first day of school was just not going to be practical due to rain. She was a little (as in tears welling up in her eyes) bummed, but I told her that she could wear her red trench, and life was better again! So we carefully re-planned the outfit and argued for 10 minutes about what shoes to wear with it and thankfully Chris stepped in and chose the "right" ones!! Now, was I sad to see her off today? You'd think with all my crazy pregnancy hormones I would have been crying all the way home, but I wasn't at all--let's be honest I was very excited to have school start today! As Clara and I walked back to the car, after an hour of labeling and organizing Madeline's desk and supplies and catching up with parents in the hall, Clara said, "sissy all gone." I think she's going to be the sad one the next few days.

Cheers,
jewels

Yes, this is Madeline missing her two front teeth, hard to tell, but they are gone.

Madeline is so excited to be in class with her friend Chloe, I wish I knew what they talking about here...

Twins Annie and Violet Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2010-09-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

I had always said I could never "do" twins. As in having my own. Just the thought of caring for 2 babies was enough to zap my energy. After spending a few hours with Annie and Violet I immediately called Chris and said, "I WANT TWINS!" They were so perfect, sleepy, and seeing how much they already were bonded made me teary-eyed. The first picture of them makes me teary eyed too, Its like Annie is gently saying to Violet, "I'm always here." (OK, you can chalk a lot of emotion to my last weeks of pregnancy, but these two little girls are incredibly precious). Annie and Violet will be blessed with many years of great photos as their mom, Rachel, is also a photographer. She has some beautiful images of the twins already, and I love it when she posts them on facebook! Here are the twins from my first ever "twin newborn" session.

Cheers,
jewels

A Walla Walla Wedding Sneak Peek

2010-08-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Amy and Brian are OFFICIAL!! More to come soon...

Courtney 2011 Senior Bellingham Senior Photographer

2010-08-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well hello there neglected blog, I'd like you to meet Courtney! Courtney was a pure joy to work with. She is a cheerleader at NW SilverStars and attends Squalicum HS (which is also where Chris' younger brother Mark and his now wife Jenni graduated, and if we stay in the same district Madeline will attend there as well). And, she has the biggest heart and smile! Before the session we met Leah at her skincare studio, Tart Beauty, where she did an AMAZING job with makeup, highly recommended for any girl getting her senior photos done! Then Courtney, Christina and I hit the town finding urban nooks with fun lighting. Thanks Christina for brining your awesome reflector holding skills to the table! Ok, so enough chit chat, you've got to see how BEAUTIFUL miss Courtney is!!!

Cheers,
jewels

Interested in your own senior session? Email: jewelsharrell (at) gmail (dot) com
There is limited availability through September, and I will be on Maternity leave October-January 2011. I will begin booking senior sessions in February 2011. Senior Session all inclusive packages begin at $300.00. Contact Julie Harrell Photography for more details.

Ava's Baby Announcements

2010-07-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

Oooh, look what I got in the mail a couple weeks ago (I know, I'm backed up on blogging, its summer though)! Little Ava's announcements turned out sooooo perfect. Since her name signifies a bird, it seemed fitting to add a little pop of color on the modern yet whimsical styled card. I love the simplicity of it, but I think my favorite part of the whole announcement is Ava's waiving "Hello World!" to everyone. How cute is she?! These were printed 5x7, and were super glossy with a UV coating. You would really have to see it and hold it to get the full feel of these announcements, but here are a couple pics to share. Next week I'll be in Walla Walla shooting a beautiful wedding, and after I return home I get to do my very first twin newborn session! I cannot wait to meet Annie and Violet :) In the meantime I have some fun blog posts in the making, Madeline's birthday party and 7 year old photos, and a gorgeous senior! Can't wait to share it all. Have a great weekend!

Cheers,
jewels

Made in Oregon Portland Family Photographer

2010-07-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

When I met Nina, and her sister Andrea (I did Andrea's family photos here), I was 15 or 16 years old. The three of us would hike together, sing together (they can sing, I can't), road trip together, go to church events together... we were all fast friends, and it was just one of those close relationships you felt would last a lifetime. As young girls we would talk about going to college together, living in the same neighborhood, growing our children together, vacations as the children grew older...you get the idea. We've finished our school (at separate universities though we all applied at the same one), and we have taken part in each other's weddings, and shared the joys of new life, and sorrows of lives not lived. After 15 years of friendship, I'd say we're on the right track of lifelong.

Nina and Matthew had their first baby, a sweet little boy Jude, last year. A few weeks ago we spent the weekend at their newly purchased first home to celebrate Jude's first birthday and to do some "1 Year Old" and relaxed family portraits. Besides the fact that Jude was a natural in front of the camera, and he had the best "made in Oregon" onesie on (yup, I think he was made there), I could not stop photographing his amazing eyes. Nina has these naturally turquoise blue eyes, and Jude was handed down the equally stunning eyes gene. You'll see!! So on our journey of lifelong, I hope we still get to do those vacations once the kids are older ;)

Cheers,
jewels

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

We're heading to our friend's house for a very fun gala today... I think they are roasting a whole pig in the pit too... But I can't remember. So do you know what"boom town" is? Today I just found out what it was, if you can believe that. We live next to a reservation, and I guess its where you go to buy all your fireworks. Why I didn't put boom town in this context I don't know. I'll chalk that up to pregnancy brain. Since I don't know what to post that is super creative, I'll just share my inspiration board for Madeline's 7th birthday party coming up. That dress (its pretty small on the inspiration board) we got a few months ago, its made by the super cute company Tea Collection, and see those precious stripey straws, yes I picked some of those up to at Anthropologie. And I know I forgot to erase all my personal info on the invites. But whatever, it would all come up on a google search anyhow!! Now I just need some epic idea for 7 year old portraits, I'm open to suggestions, and some super sweet shoes for Madeline. And to that end, I'd love to say "be safe" today, but lets face it... the 4th is so much more exhilarating with a little risky risky ;) Tomorrow I have some of the cutest one year old photos to share. This little guy has incredible eyes, you'll see soon...

Cheers,
jewels

Ava Marie Columbus, OH Newborn Photographer

2010-06-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ohio took me for week when I visited one of my best friends ever, Justine, and her husband Matt, and new baby Ava Marie. While there we took a lackadaisical Sunday afternoon to capture Ava's newborn cuteness on "film." Thanks to the Buckeye state's wonderfully warm late spring weather, we shot the whole shoot outside under their screened in front porch. It was the first time I did a newborn shoot outside, and it was fresh and inspiring to do so! Here is all 5.5 pounds of Aviator!

Cheers,
jewels

Spring Ballet Recital

2010-06-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

It's the end to another year of dancing for Madeline, and like most studios, we said farewell to the year with a Spring Recital. This is Madeline's 3rd year (well last year we only did 1/2 the year due to soccer conficts) of dancing at Dancing For Joy. We are so in love with the mission, teachers, business philosophy, and goals of this company. This spring dancers took to the stage in "Let There Be..." a show walking, er I mean dancing through the 7 days of creation. I am refreshed and encouraged at the end of each performance, and not to mention every recital produced by DFJ. I remember my own childhood dance recitals. They mostly seemed to be a series of random dances starting with the lower classes and working up to the more advanced classes. Sometimes there would be a story or theme, but nothing seemed cohesive. I love that with each DFJ recital I can not just "sit through" but acutally look forward to and enjoy every dance. Thanks DFJ for a wonderful year. We've been blessed by your presence in our community! I think every town needs a DFJ ;)

Cheers,
jewels

We had our 20 week Ultrasound and IT'S A....

2010-06-14T13:06:00.000-07:00

SURPRISE!! And not just for you, but for us too. We are waiting till birth to find out if we have a boy or girl. With both Madeline and Clara we found out the sex at 20 weeks, and I thought it would be fun to see if I actually could wait. I didn't think it was possible, but when the ultra sound tech told me the times not to look at the screen, I turned my head and didn't peek!! So in the mean time we'll be thinking of boy and girl names (neither of which we can agree on) and readying ourselves for a lot of green and yellow ;) I do, however, prefer greys, neutrals, and stripes.

Chris and I took both girls with us to the appointment and Clara was a little restless as usual. Towards the end of our session, Clara looked at the screen showing the whole baby's profile and said "Ba Beh," (Baby). I loved it, and I love looking forward to being a family of FIVE!! Holy cow, how did that happen? So forgive me if I don't have fantasticly exciting news to share, but the baby is healthy and everything is where and how it should be. The due date is October 31 by the ultrasound today, and October 30 by my ultrasound at 11 weeks. I guess we'll have to call this our little punkin. Or is that too cliche? However it does sound better than calling the baby "gourdy." Let me know if you have a "great" name for our growing babe and, we promise you will know in approximately 20 weeks if punkin is a boy or girl!

Cheers,
jewels

Greetings from Portland

2010-06-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

So if you missed it yesterday, one of my favorite blogs featured some of Amy and Brian's engagement session, see it here. Dandelion and Grey is a LA based event service, and the blog is chalked full of inspiration and fun "lovlies." Thanks Erin, it really was an honor to have my work on your fabulous blog! Now back to partying in Portland (One of my best friend's son, Jude, just turned 1). I'll have his one year old portraits to share in the next few weeks.

Cheers,
jewels

Adorable Abbie Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2010-06-11T11:37:00.000-07:00

Look at this precious newborn baby. Abbie was 6 days new when I was able to photograph her. She was one of the most calm and sleepy babies I've worked with. Most of the time a newborn session is filled with a lot of holding and soothing, but Abbie just wanted to get her beauty sleep (I bet she knew she was going to be photographed). Thanks Blakely family for making the drive up to Bellingham for the session, I'm so happy to have met Abbie!

Cheers,
jewels

I love this, because in the middle of Abbie's sleep she somehow sensed her big sister was nearby, and started kicking her away! Abbie!!

I'm Back From Ohio

2010-06-10T15:21:00.000-07:00

I just spent the last week enjoying the company of one of my bestest friends ever. Justine had her first baby, Ava Marie, and I was in heaven nuggling with that new little darling. I have some really neat newborn photos of Ava to post in the next couple weeks. I'll try to get those up quick for those dying to see her! The hardest part about returning home is having to fly into Seatac airport when its 58 degrees and raining. I told Chris that I never thought I would say it but "I missed Ohio!" The weather was wonderful and eating gourmet ice cream at night outside (while staying dry I might add) is something we rarely experience in Western Washington. And since I haven't uploaded my Ohio photos, and I know this post needs some sort of image, here are a couple of Madeline from last night. I took her out on a little date, she got all dolled up complete with blush and orange eye shadow. Cute huh?!

Cheers,
jewels

Could you imagine how sweet she would be? Bellingham Maternity and Newborn Photographer

2010-05-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

These images are incredible to me. No, not because I was the person behind the lens, but because it shows this powerful idea of an expectant mother about to hold in her arms what she carries inside. The perfect transformation and renewing from the inside to the outside. I wish I could take credit for these poses, but I cannot. I was inspired by one of my favorite photographers, Carrie Sandoval. When I saw her do a before baby after baby photo series, I just had to give it a try. Stay tuned for more newborn photos of little miss Abbie in the next few days!

Cheers,
jewels

Jack is ONE Bellingham Child Photography

2010-05-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

I have got to say I've never met a baby with soooo many facial expressions. Jack doesn't have to say anything, and instantly you know what he is thinking! His mom, Lindsay, consistently blogged his whole first year of life, and even as a teeny tiny baby he would make the cutest faces. I can't get enough of him. And all this personality came out in under 30 minutes of shooting. A lot different from his newborn session, which I think lasted 4-5 hours, Right Linds? Jack just cracks me up!!

Cheers,
jewels

17 weeks Pregnant

2010-05-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

Monday night was a fun "Bellingham (and surrounding areas) Photographer's meetup." We hung out at the lake and enjoyed dinner with all our kids, spouses, and significant others! Afterwards I asked Aaron to snag a quick pic of my pregnant belly b/c I haven't shared one yet! I'm HUGE. Another photographer is due soon with TWINS, and I am seriously about as big as she is. I guess with your 3rd child, there are no more muscles (or in my case flab) to hold things in! For compairason I'll post photos of me pregnant at 17 and 23 weeks with with Clara and you can see the BIG difference! Anyways, here I am posing like I'm trying not to be a poser!

Cheers,
jewels

Me now, at 17 weeks. Maternity jeans, a joy really (not).

17 weeks from previous pregnancy, normal size jeans...

23 weeks from previous pregnancy, still wearing normal jeans, a size bigger....

Baby Announcements

2010-05-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

Lucas' baby announcements came in a couple days ago, and I love how they turned out. When my clients ask, I will put together samples of custom photo announcements let them choose their favorites. These ones were printed front and back on a pearlized card stock, and then UV coated. The UV coating adds a thick glossy finish creating a very polished card! The back has no writing, so family can keep it in a frame, on their fridge, or in a photo album forever! Although I would keep the part with writing in a frame, but that's just me... ;) I have had Lucas on my own fridge the past couple days, he's so scrumptious!

Cheers,
jewels

Clara's First Haircut

2010-05-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Let's just clarify something here. The 80's are totally in and hot right now... and IN the 80's what were 2 hot hairstyles? I don't even have to say one of them, we all know the MULLET was they way to go, but please tell me besides aquanet bangs a mile high, the rat tail was kinda cool?? Well today Clara lost both (not the aquanet bangs). Her signature rat tail, that had grown into a pretty rockin mullet got snip sniped. I'll be honest this was a tough decision for me, but my darling husband kept reminding me that rat tails were NOT the "IN" thing for baby girls. Ok Ok, I get it I get it.

Of course I could have just cut the thing off myself, but why do that when our favorite hair salon is 5 minutes away? I've been using Mandy, the owner of Studio Galactica, for the last 8 years. If we ever had to move, I think I would budget a trip back up to Bellingham just to use her (My mom, who lives three hours away already does). She's awesome. Mandy cut Madeline's hair for the first time (I blogged about it here, like 3 years ago), so of course I had to have her cut Clara's too.

Sooooo we brought Clara in for her 9am appointment and watched as that little tuft of hair said goodbye. She sat on Chris' lap while Madeline fed her Cheerios. And as much as she hates her hair being touched, she did good. No tears, only a little bit of confusion. I will say, she looks cute and I'm sure most of you would agree!

Cheers,
jewels

Baby Belly :)

And all done!

Amy + Brian Seattle Engagement Photography

2010-05-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

So, I had this nice long post about Amy and Brian, and I have no idea what happened to it!! I just took a look at my blog and all the writing is missing....hmmm! I'll have to re-write what I had written earlier. Strange Strange I tell ya!

Cheers,
jewels

I'm in Love with a Carseat

2010-05-16T23:09:00.000-07:00

Every carseat we've purchased has been a practical decision design wise. Actually design has never even been a consideration given what I thought was available in our carseat budget. I assumed these carseats couldn't possibly be as "cute" as some other more expensive models on the line.

Since Clara was growing and needed a new ride we knew there were 3 things we needed in said seat (safety being a given):
1. Something in our budget (yes dear)
2. Something that would fit in the backseat with both a booster seat and an infant seat
3. Something comfortable

One thing I wanted (again, safety is a given here too). Something stylish

I scoured blogs, retailers, google (and bing) as well as ebay. We took a family trip to "Babies R Us" just to touch some of the models of interest.

We finally narrowed down the search to three seats:
Britax Marathon (Found on sale here): I liked the safety ratings etc, but the pattern wasn't my style.
Graco My Ride: Style was OK, comfort was good, BUT it was too big for our vehical.
Safety First Alpha Omega Elite: This seat was all about comfort.

All were reasonable priced, all had great safety ratings, but I still wanted something with a little more pizazz.

Enter Maxi Cosi Piori. I saw the design and knew it was perfect. Clean lines, no frills, bold colors, European, safe and comfortable. I was sold... AND even better, it was almost 50% off?! I didn't hesitate to order it (after checking all the specs and reviews). It turned out to be the seat that takes up the least amount of space (17.5 inches wide) of my choices, and it was by far the most stylish.

I must say, that each time I go to put my girls in the "chick magnet" (our super cool 1990 white Buick), I feel happy putting Clara in her new seat. It looks pretty hip. I do have to mention, though, it did take both Chris and I reading the directions to figure out the setup. (I'm not much of a directions reader) But after an hour of arguing over what certain images meant, we got it in our car safely and snugly!

Cheers,
jewels

Clara, giving her best shot at deciphering those images in the manual. By the way, notice how after 15 minutes out of the box, there are already greasy finger marks on it?? GOODNESS SAKES!!:

Stock image, it looks so much better in person!

Lucas 12 Days New Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2010-05-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

Newborn photography is wonderful. I think this because I get to hold the most precious babies in their earliest days. Sometimes when I'm soothing them to sleep, I hold them just an extra moment because, well, wouldn't you?! They smell so pure and each feature is amazing, and even their little cries make my heart melt. Lucas Zachary Burd was no exception. He's perfect if you ask me. I hope your heart melts at his scrumptiousness too!

Cheers,
jewels

15 Weeks Pregnant $

2010-05-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm 15 weeks pregnant! I don't have a photo of my belly yet, but I will get one up soon--as I am clearly showing. I have popped out faster than I thought I would--even with #3 Most of that is leftovers from the last pregnancy I do believe.

At first I had no clue I was pregnant. It started with a stomach flu. I was sick for 5 days with things that are TMI, and so my continued nausea that lingered for a couple weeks was clearly my recovering from a horrid stomach bug. A couple weeks later while spending the weekend with friends, we came home to learn that some of them ended up with a similar stomach flu. I spent the whole next day dead to the world on the couch, sleepy and ill. I somehow thought I had re-contracted this awful sickness and I was doomed for my hourly dates with mr. kohler. Since I had loads of work to finish by the following evening I told Chris I should take a pregnancy test. If it was negative I knew I'd be throwing up all night, and needed to accomplish all I could ASAP. BUT if it was positive, I figured I could curl up in bed and be the great procrastinator I'm known as and finish the work in the AM.

I opened up the opaque wrapper , visited mr. kohler, and was oddly surprised to see two pink lines on the test strip. My first thought, "Phew, I don't have to work tonight." My second thought, "Tell Chris!" And for the record, the second thought was almost a tie with the first thought, this was a close race people!

Yes, we were a bit skeptical not just because I had Chris buy the least expensive test on the market (because we all know if you pay more the test results increase in accuracy), but it was the HOW part that made me wonder. OK, so I know HOW how, but I was trying to pinpoint where things went array.... ;) And it turns out one needs to use preventive measures even in the shower. I know, huh?

Looking back I had all the typical 1st trimester symptoms too, I just had found ways to justify their cause.

Frequent Urination: I was breastfeeding Clara still, and drinking lots. (Drinking lots of water)
Tender areas: I was in the process of weaning from breast feeding, I assumed this caused any tenderness (AND not to mention, Clara decided to use "them" as teethers... being bitten while breastfeeding SUCKS!!)
Fatigue: I was only sleeping broken sleep 4-6 hours a night, as Clara would still not sleep at night.
Headaches: Lack of sleep
Nausea: I had the stomach flu (some bug huh?!)
lack of appetite: stress (and residual flu side effects)
And the obvious being 4 weeks late, well I chalked that up to breastfeeding as well!

SO, there you have it--the beginning of baby #3. Things so far have been running perfectly, and I'm soooo excited to finally feel all those tiny fleeting flutters of that little doodle growing inside of me.

AND since I don't have a photo of my incredible (not) 15 week body, here is an image from our first ultrasound at 11 weeks. I seriously can't wait to meet him/her!

Cheers,
jewels

Due with No.2 Bellingham Maternity Photography

2010-05-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

Chris and I met Jayme and Kristin almost 7 years ago in Bellingham, we were all in the same small group together. We were dear friends and when the time came for them to move closer to the Seattle area we were all sad to see them go. After their move we kept in touch, but as years went by, I ended up using her blog to keep up on her family rather than to do the good friend thing and call or even email. Fast forward to a few months ago: I get super excited to see an email from Kristin asking about Maternity photos! I was excited to hear from her, and to know she was expecting #2, excited to meet their little darling princess Emma AND of course to take Kristin's photos (she's gorgeous and has a perfect little bump). Now I can hardly wait to meet her baby girl and do some squishy newborn photos with #2. If #2 is as darling as her big sister (which will be the case), Dad (Jayme) is in for it--but that's OK since he is a Police Officer. Ok, on with the images :)

Cheers,
jewels

This cute pup wanted his photo taken too, despite his owner's calls to "Come"

Ha ha, nice try Jayme :)

Jeremiah William-One Week Old Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2010-04-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a lot more newborn sessions lately, and I have to say I love it. I've always thought of my photography geared more towards families and weddings, but I am enjoying this shift towards newborns and maternity. There is something so special about a fresh newborn baby that lifts the soul. Seriously! I held little Jeremiah, and I thought my heart would just jump out of my chest! I don't know if all photographers feel this way when they shoot little new babes, but I can't get enough of them! Just take a look at this little guy!! (His big brother is pretty cute stuff too!)

Cooper turns 1 Bonney Lake Child Photographer

2010-04-17T17:12:00.000-07:00

Cooper just turned one, and poor guy had to have his first birthday party cancelled because he was sick! :( How sad is that?! Anyways, he and my daughter Clara have a very special friendship. Cooper gave her a bracelet after she was born (even though I think he was still in the womb when he got it). When that bracelet broke, he decided to get her another one for her 1st birthday. He is a month younger than Clara, and of course I have enjoyed photographing these two babies together over the past year. He is a happy-go-lucky kinda boy, and so easy to photograph. Our vision with this shoot was to have this HUGE blue balloon as a thematic element. But after I snapped my first test shot, the balloon quickly became untied and floated upward. It was sad watching it slowly disappear into the grey of our Washington springtime sky, but Cooper was so charming, I soon forgot about that balloon.

Well Almost....

Cheers,
jewels

WOAH AWESOME CURLS!!

Fun Visits and Pretty Tulips

2010-04-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

Chris' mom, Jennie, flew out to visit last week. His parents moved from Bellingham to Orlando two years ago, and we miss having them around sooooo much! Chris, Madeline and I constantly scheme on how to get them to move back here, but once you leave the damp and cold winters of Western Washington for golfing everyday on the best greens in Florida, I guess we have our work cut out for us! Here are some photos from our jaunt to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. I can't say my dear husband was as thrilled as we were to visit, but it sure was beautiful. And take note... if you've never been before, wear boots. The fields can be really muddy!

Cheers,
jewels

Justine's Maternity Session Bellingham Maternity Photographer

2010-03-17T09:18:00.001-07:00

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!

A couple weeks ago Dee and I hosted a baby shower for our dear friend Justine. She is due with her baby girl at the end of May. Although I prefer to do maternity sessions at 34-36 weeks, Justine was only out here for the weekend, so I had to get what I could (which was super easy since her belly is perfect and beautiful). We started shooting our session in Buckley, WA, where we both went to high school (Go White River Hornets), and finished the session in the neighboring town of Enumclaw. Oh to be back in our old stomping grounds... Justine you are beautiful, thanks for being willing to do whatever I told you to do ;) But I guess that's how our friendship has always been--unless we are cooking together, right?! (Inside knowledge, Justine a little bit of a kitchen control freak-ha)!

Cheers,
jewels

Happy 1st Birthday Clara Joyce

2010-03-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

Clara is as feisty today as the day she was born. I remember being in the hospital, dying for only an hour of sleep and she would not even spend a minute in those little bassinets they give you, and she just cried unless I was standing up holding her. Even right by my side she was not happy. I begged the nurses for a binky, just to help calm her down (instead I got a lecture on why I should not introduce one). Yes I understand the dilemma with breastfeeding, but they should have seen the way she latched on for her food. Anyways. When we returned home, Clara lost her little baby voice from crying so much. Now nothing was wrong, because the moment I would stand up and hold her, she would be fine. She soon became comfortable laying on my chest (yes now we had two acceptable positions), but would not dare spend a moment in her cradle--or anywhere else. Weeks went by, and I realized I had a very particular girl. I was nursing one afternoon, and wanted to catch up on some phone conversations. As soon as I started talking while nursing, little Clara unlatched looked up at me and gave a loud scream (to let me know she didn't appreciate my talking on the phone while I was nursing her). Next I tried reading while nursing. Clara let me know she didn't appreciate that either.

I have story after story of this little girl. She is very high maintenance, cries a lot (still), is incredibly particular, beyond active, yet so smart, funny and beautiful. I'm in love with this little cradle jumper, crib crier, carseat squirmer, high-chair escapee. I know she will be good to the world, because she wouldn't have it any other way! Happy First Birthday Clara Joyce Harrell.

Nakie Nunu is almost 1

2010-03-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

My little baby is such a nudist. And anyone close to me knows which parent she gets that one from! She wet through her diaper this morning, so I took off her clothes, and as soon as that diaper came off she rolled over faster than I could catch and started crawling all around the house. Since we don't have carpet upstairs, cleanup is pretty easy if there are ever accidents. I think her little bum is just the cutest thing ever, so I don't mind the nakie nunu's.... as long as it doesn't carry into teenage years! YIKES!! For now I'll keep my baby almost 1.

Cheers,
jewels

Elle 7 days new Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2010-02-25T08:08:00.001-08:00

Do you want to see the most precious baby girl ever? Oh, I just could have held her the whole time, all 6 pounds of her cuteness!! I still sometimes think my own baby is still a tiny baby but I forget just how small newborns are. Plus they are SOOOO snuggly. LOVE IT!! Megs joined me in helping soothe and shoot, I think we did a good job eh? (The Canadian is rubbing off on me, must be the Olympics). Kyle and Christy thanks so much for making the long drive up to Bellingham, Elle is so special, you are beyond blessed!

Cheers,
jewels

I {heart} this one! She just needed a minute re-compose :)

oooooohhhhh baby lips!!

Megs got these next 2 images. I love the perspective of the first one. Megs was shooting incognito throughout the whole session--even during times of holding and rocking to sleep. She captured a tender moment with Daddy and his new daughter.

Up to's

2010-02-01T21:36:00.000-08:00

So what have you been up to? Here's some things I've been up to this week:

Planning a baby shower for one of my best friends. We've been friends for over 15 years, and she is due with her first baby GIRL *squeal* at the tail-tip of May. I'm not planning alone, though, Dee is helping me. Dee throws great parties, and together we creatively come up with so many (seemingly) great ideas (even if most of those ideas just have our husbands seeing dollar signs...)

First round of inspiration:

Dee hired her friend Emily for the invitations. The shower theme varies on birds and nests. And can I just say I'm loving baby's breath right now too--I know it's totally 80's but I'm convinced its going to make a comeback ;) We wanted neutral tones with pops of pink and punches of sparkly (ie glittery) silver.

In other news, our cabbages we planted last spring are finally starting to show signs of actual vegetation... AND it's January... All well...

Clara being Clara

Me being crafty. Here are the BEFORE's :) Afters will come soon!

This morning Madeline asked me if I wanted some of the leftover sparkling grapefruit juice. I said sure, and was SURE surprised to see it delivered to me in a crystal glass (But hey, where's the umbrella??) JUST kidding!! It was so cute I had to take a picture :)

And the girls being silly :)

Cheers,
jewels

Vince's Look Bellingham Headshot Photographer

2010-01-26T21:38:00.000-08:00

Vince, a Jack of all trades and a master of ALL, is running for State Representative. We had a great time catching up and tooling around beautiful Bellingham doing headshots for his site and campaign. Good luck with everything Vince.

Cheers,
jewels

Utterly Inspired

2010-01-20T11:21:00.000-08:00

I love scouring all the "wedding" blogs for inspiration and ideas for shooting weddings--and for party planning ideas (ie Clara's birthday coming up and a baby shower for one of my best friends next month)... And today I just fell in swooning love with everything from the design shoot of Katherine Robinson's vintage style dresses--Thank you Brides Cafe for sharing this!! It makes me want to have a 2nd wedding with my dear Mr. Harrell (that is the younger Mr. Harrell, or rather the oldest of the younger Mr. Harrells) YIKES--hope that didn't get too confusing!! Anyways... if my name were Juliette, I think that would look just perfect written across one of the hat boxes...
Cheers,
jewels

To See more inspiring images go here!!
Photo Credits: Kelly and Ryan Portnoy of Kellan Studios

How did I forget about this one?

2010-01-14T21:37:00.001-08:00

I so meant to post this with the Tuscon Wedding Photos :)

Cheers,
jewels

Madeline and Clara

2010-01-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, you'd never know by looking at this photo that these two can be stinkers! ;) I love my girls--Madeline begs to have matching outfits with Clara. When I was a kid I never wanted to dress like my sister!! As a Christmas surprise Santa brought matching outfits. I think he deserves a pat on the back ;)

Cheers,
jewels

A Tucson Wedding

2010-01-09T20:01:00.000-08:00

I know I've been hiding these photos way too long! And finally I'm ready to share some images from one of the most intimate weddings I've been able to be a part of! I was just tickled watching how soooooo stinkin in love they are (and it's sooooooo stinkin cute)! I loved how culturally eclectic the wedding was, and totally non-traditional. There was an amazing Italian dinner spread, Korean dolls as cake toppers, West Indian garments, Russian artifacts and more. Each country represented something special to Doug and Deb--How neat is that? Congratulations you two love birds on your new life together!

Cheers,
jewels

When you leave your child at a photographer's house

2010-01-05T22:29:00.000-08:00

I had a photoshoot to do today, so I dropped Clara off with Aaron and Megs for a couple hours. This is what I got when I came to pick her up!

Can we say so way cute!! What a fun surprise for me! Thank you Evantide for the adorable photos--love em!

Cheers,
jewels

Birthday Inspriation

2010-01-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

Clara's first birthday is in a couple months, so I've begun planning for the big ONE! :) A birthday she will never remember--but an exciting time to celebrate the first year of life! Here is my first inspiration board for her day. I'll try to dig up links to each photo--but honestly I don't remember where on the internet I found some of the photos...oops.

I love how this turquoise dress is playful like the tulle and tissues peppered in the above photo--and the color pops against the peaches and pinks. I think I'll find a less expensive metallic pink shoe and add some vintage clip-on eeners (that's what we call earrings in our fam). Time to make a run to the antique mall!!

Dress: I Love Gorgeous Shoes: I Pinco Pallino

And for food? I'm toying with the idea of crepes. Peach fillings, apple fillings, and a lemon curd. (I always have chocolate shavings to go on top too). And since there will be a few babies there, I might do a baby version of a peach and apple compote!

Cheers,
jewels

Christy, Kyle and Baby Bump Bellingham Maternity Photos

2010-01-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

I was trying to decide what I thought the "best" thing about this session was, but I couldn't choose. For one thing--Christy and Kyle are gorgeous; another thing, they braved the wet and cold, wandered through mud (I lost a shoe in a mud hole), and dodged the apparent doggy potty grounds we were shooting in--oops!! AND, they radiated love for each other and excitement for their baby girl due in January! What could be better? Christy and Kyle, I can't wait to meet your little doodlebug princess in a few weeks! Hope you enjoy these.

Cheers,
jewels

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T21:41:00.001-08:00

I hope your day was bright and merry. Ours was bright (as in omgosh-the-sun-was-shining-in-Washington). However things bacame not-so-merry when Clara came down with the flu and threw up on me multiple times. (Still is sick, throwing up actually). So her first Christmas was coupled with her first flu. Lets not make this one tradition. But on the bright side, may you all be blessed through out the remainder of this year and into the next!

Cheers,
jewels

Lunch Today

2009-12-23T14:05:00.000-08:00

Well to start, Madeline who was STARVING apparently only take 2 (itsy bitsy) bites of her grilled cheese before she was "full"--and then didn't like it after going through a list of 100 possible things to eat for lunch. We finally narrow it down to a grilled cheese and then she won't eat it. And lets not get started with Clara who was so grumpy. She threw her peaches/pears/oatmeal mixture on the floor--and this is while she was SCREAMING. My 9 month old pitches fits. It seems way too early for a baby to know how to pitch fits and THROW their food. And I don't mean a causal knock it down, or scoot it, but rather taking the bowl and chucking it across the kitchen, clear into the living room. I now have peaches on the window. The avocado on the floor was a trick to get me to say UH-oh... it was after the guacamole was gone and she was forced to eat the peaches/pears that the tears started. I mean, how bad can that really be?! At the post office when the Post Master reminded the group of 50 people waiting in line that they need to file the proper forms for international mail I asked if those forms applied to grumpy babies shipped out of the country... I don't think he got it.

Cheers,
jewels

Just One Sneak Peak Maternity Session

2009-12-19T23:19:00.000-08:00

Could they be any cuter? Seriously!! Can't wait to share more from this amazing maternity session.

Cheers,
jewels

In Love In Tucson Engagement Session

2009-12-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

Deb and Doug are in Love. Seriously... I got goosebumps just watching the two of them together! Here are some photos from the night before the wedding. Thanks to my sister in law, Jenni, for assisting me!

See the two cacti in the background... they are in love too...

Fall Fun with The Fullers

2009-11-16T12:49:00.001-08:00

We had such a fabulously fun time with the Fullers this fall. I love to see how their family is growing. Dee, you have a couple more months to try for baby #4 for next year's photos--there is a nice growth pattern to your annual fall sessions!

2007:

2008:

2009:

Blog will be normal soon

2009-10-29T16:38:00.001-07:00

Blog and website are under construction!! All will be normal soon :)

Cheers,
jewels

Contest Winner Announced :)

2009-10-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

So, I couldn't narrow down the top 10 finalists because there were too many people I knew who entered. So I just let Chris look at all the photos and choose his top 3, then a winner out of the three. So here is the winner!!!!

"Set In Her Ways" Photographer: Jackie Sagewski

Congratulations Jackie! Send me your info, and I'll get the book in the mail :)

And the Runners Up!
2nd Place is Brooke Gatterman:

3rd Place is Christi Taylor

Thanks to all who entered!

Cheers,
jewels

Bee insert adjective here

2009-10-23T11:35:00.000-07:00

Bee sweet, bee fabulous, bee careful, be witty....

And for those waiting on the contest results, bee ready soon!! I'll post the top photos today or tomorrow!

Cheers,
jewels

Cooper and Clara

2009-10-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

We had the Fuller's up today and went out to do our annual fall photos--she brought her camera up since mine is dead and I really enjoyed playing with the new canon something or other she had (I don't remember which one--Dee??). But I kinda enjoyed the live view on the SLR. After never having a digital point and shoot--I always find myself looking through the little windows on P&S's TOTALLY forgetting that I can look at the screen in front of me. So for kicks I used the SLR with live view to do some photos. I must say I still feel more comfortable looking through my little window sorta like an old dog who doesn't want to learn new tricks! So as I was browsing through the photos tonight, I just about died laughing when I saw this little sequence of photos of Clara and Cooper--Oh, the days to come!

Cheers,
jewels

Tucson Photos #1

2009-10-15T15:13:00.000-07:00

Last week we headed down to Tucson to visit family and to shoot a wedding. Well Madeline stayed behind in Bellingham because she had school--so my mom came up for the week to spoil (I mean stay) with her! :) Chris' brother and his wife opened an urban coffee shop in downtown Tucson a couple months back, Avenue Coffee. Hands down it is THE best coffee I've ever had in my life. We enjoyed hanging out in their cute shop and meeting all their regulars, drinking fun drinks and eating yummy pastries (I recommend a cocount mocha and a warmed cinnamon roll). We spent some time swimming and visiting with friends in addition to the wedding (pics from the wedding to come soon!) Anyways, here are a few sunset plant photos I took. I can never get over the cactus plants! They just are so COOL!

Cheers,
jewels

Clara Joyce 6 months old Bellingham Baby Photographer

2009-10-13T23:09:00.000-07:00

I just wrote every cliche about time you can think of... then deleted each sentence. It sounds crazy to say "time goes by so fast" or "where does time go?" or "I can't believe how fast time flies..." but really, it's true. Please, if you have another way of saying this that doesn't sound so redundant, please do share!!! I cannot believe Clara is 6 months old (going on 7 actually). Today, we attempted a photoshoot to celebrate the mid-year mark. After an hour of looking for good fall leaves we settled into our spot. Not more than a handful of frames into the shoot, my trusted old camera took it's last breath. My friend, Aaron, let me borrow his Nikon in hopes of finishing my session--however as soon as we resumed shooting, it started to rain. Clara was crying. Chris thought she was cold and wet--I think it's because I switched to Nikon. The tears say it all below!

Cheers,
jewels

See, she's practically saying, "No mom, not the Nikon!!!" ;)

BLOG CONTEST!! WIN THIS BOOK!!

2009-10-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed with 2 copies of this beautiful National Geographic book, "Women Photographers." I want to give away my other hardcover to a deserving photographer, or to someone who just loves photography!

How to enter:
Send your favorite photojournalistic style digital image to: jewelsharrell (at) gmail (dot) com

Images must be received no later than October 18th.
Size image to 600 pixels on longest side.
Please no watermarks that would reveal your identity.

I will choose the top 10 images to display, then have my husband narrow it down to the winning image! :)

I will announce the winner, and require that person to send me their mailing information within a week. Should that information not be received, I will offer the book to the runner up, and so on!

Top 10 images will be shown on the blog, along with photographer credits.

Cheers,
jewels

Tracy and Brandon Bellingham Engagement Photographer

2009-09-29T21:45:00.001-07:00

Here they are!! The engagement photos of my sister and my new brother in law (yes, the are now married). :) The joys of being family is that you get a nice "discount" on photography. The downside is that is takes a little longer for me to get to them all! I posted a few more than normal, but they were so gosh darn cute!

Cheers,
jewels

Keeping up with the Jones' Bellingham Family Photographer

2009-09-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

I met up with Ben and Andrea Jones in Enumclaw, WA with their two beautiful daughters, Eden and Mila for a fun family photoshoot. The day started with downpour. Not a drizzle, not rain, not "showers"-- DOWNPOUR. I think we all were a little nervous about shooting in such bad weather, but I assured them, that even if it were raining, the photos would turn out so beautiful. There was not option of a re-shoot; Andrea was scheduled for surgery to remove potentially cancerous tumors the next day. But when the time came to actually begin--there was a cease raining, and the sun even came out by the end of our time! Andrea and Ben, you have a beautiful family, and it's been such a joy to have spent the day with you all! I hope you enjoy your photos, you are all made for the camera :)

Cheers,
jewels

Surviving the 1st day of Kindergarten

2009-09-11T18:38:00.001-07:00

Now, I wasn't worried about Madeline surviving her first day of Kindergarten, I was worried about me!! :) I thought I would be going through the tissue and blubbering through tears to the parents and teachers. But I held fast and didn't shed a tear. Maybe because I delivered a little miss sassy pants to school, or because it was 90 degrees in the building--but either way, I'm excited and anxious to watch my first child grow up! She came home all smiles, and proceeded to tell me each little detail of her day--I hope that lasts through the middle school years too! Here is Madeline all ready for learning!

Cheers,
jewels

Madeline Age 6 Bellingham Child Photographer

2009-08-31T20:08:00.001-07:00

Bellingham's finest "ham" turned 6 last month, and we had a great time doing her 6 year old photoshoot! This girl is a hoot I tell'ya, I just love her to pieces. She is so easy to photograph, she loves to pose, and she is stinkin' cute to boot! I have a feeling her little sister is not going to be as easy--time will tell I suppose!

Cheers,
jewels

Insert something sassy here:

Swim Lessons 09

2009-08-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of swim lessons for Madeline, and what a great 2 weeks of lessons it has been. For the past few years, she has been completely afraid of the water. It was a huge accomplishment when she put her head all the way in last year. This year she has overcome so many of those old fears, and now is diving off the diving board!! The first time she jumped off that white long platform, I looked at Chris and cheered, "Is that really our daughter?!" I'm so proud of my little swimmer and how much she has improved in the water--she's practically a fish! If anyone is looking around for good swim lesson programs in Bellingham, I highly recommend the Bellingham Country Club. Their program is incredible, and I'm thrilled with the commitment and skill of the teachers.

Cheers,
jewels

My Family all 4 of us

2009-08-18T14:44:00.000-07:00

We hardly have any photos of all of us together. My dad shot a couple of frames when we were visiting Carbonado one weekend. The first set didn't turn out--but that's because I forgot to show him how to use back button focus! I still find it hard to believe that we are a family of 4!

Cheers,
jewels

Baby Jack Bellingham Newborn Photographer

2009-08-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

Jack was only 5 days old when I got to photograph his newborn squishyness! These photos were taken a while ago, but I'm finally getting around to blogging about him! The session was quite a bit longer than usual as Lindsay and I took time to feed our little babies through out the afternoon! You might remember a shoot I did with Lindsay and Brett last summer here. During our time last year, I kept teasing them about getting pregnant. They actually were pregnant, but I had no clue! Anyways, I had the most difficult time choosing which baby Jack images to post today--he was so easy and photogenic!

Cheers,
jewels

And, we ended the session with a little--um--er--shower??!!

Happy Birthday Madeline Grace Harrell

2009-07-17T13:43:00.000-07:00

My baby is six? Is she really 6?! It seems as though she was just born, and just celebrated her first birthday, and just got her first tooth, just started walking.... Now she is a kid. A full blown kid. Oy vey! Happy Birthday Munchkin, Mommy and Daddy love you so much!

Madeline 1 week old... 2 pounds!

Madeline's 1st Birthday!

Tracy and Brandon Sneak Peak

2009-07-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

My sister is engaged! I am so excited to share all the photos. Here's one, more to come soon.

Cheers,
jewels

Punk Daughter

2009-07-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

My lovely little princess 5 year old has turned a new leaf. She is going to be 6 next week, and since Aunt Tracy can't come to her birthday party, she and soon-to-be Unlce Brandon took her out for "speshy time." They let her pick out any toy (s) she wanted from the toy store, I'd love that for a gift! Of course Madeline chose the hair dye kit for kids. It washes out after one use, and of course my sister called me to make sure that this was OK, but hearing Madeline excitedly and repeatedly tell me, "No more blond Mom!! NO MORE BLOND... forever, it's going to be red and blue..." well, I kinda want my little princess back! Here she is, posing like she's big business...

Cheers,
jewels

Bloom

2009-07-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

I was doing another round of file organization and came across this old flower photo from my mom's garden. I just found it so happy and fresh that I used it for my desktop photo... thought I'd share it here too!

Cheers,
jewels

Relaxin in my bed

2009-07-08T00:43:00.000-07:00

Clara rolled over last week! And Madeline continued to inform me that she too could roll over... Funny! :)
Here is Clara 3 1/2 months old--chillin in my bed.

Cheers,
Jewels

Do a Deer

2009-06-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Look what wandered though our "yard" or (pavement rather) while we were enjoying "a drink with jam and bread..." Looks like she has a long long way to run! ;)

You know your baby needs a bath when....

2009-06-24T11:16:00.001-07:00

"MOM!!! Clara smells like string cheese!!!"

Thanks Madeline...

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

My darling husband celebrated his 5th Father's Day (6th if you count while I was pregnant). First off, both Madeline and Clara were dedicated at our church, then we enjoyed a relaxing Sunday afternoon, followed by having some good friends over for homemade chicken pesto pizza and a rousing game of Carcassonne. I won. (Well, I won while I was feeding Clara on the couch, and 3 people were making decisions for me for a good part of the game). There was a beautiful sunset to finish the day off... well that and coffee and lemon cake! Oh, and I bet you are wondering what we got him: Sour Patch Kids, Sweetarts, Lindt Milk Chocolate, and a cribbage game :)

Cheers,
jewels

The little loves of my life

2009-06-10T17:04:00.000-07:00

Madeline Grace and Clara Joyce

Doodle Bug is 2 months old

2009-06-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Clara is on the verge of the infamous baby giggle--the one that tickles your heart and makes you laugh to tears--that little squeeky voice and cute exhale, and a snort here and there?? That's the one! Each little giggle makes me want more, like it's candy or something!

Cheers,
jewels

God, please don't make it rain...

2009-05-26T13:20:00.001-07:00

"God, please don't make it rain because I want to blow my bubbles. Pretty Please?" --Madeline Grace

I overheard her yelling this loudly to God on our back deck today. So cute. Clearly I have a Washitonian child!

Love my Moby Wrap bellingham photogrpaher

2009-05-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

Clara is a very persnickety baby. She isn't colicky, she just knows what she wants and cries until she gets it. Mostly that "something" is sleeping on my chest, or Chris' chest... or she just HAS to be held standing up. She fights sleep, thinking she might miss out on life. It's really cute, but tiring for all of us. So my saving grace has been my Moby Wrap. There are so many different carrying styles, and it is so soft and comfortable. Clara has been a happier baby since I've been using it. Coincidence? Maybe. But that's fine by me! Here is Clara bundled in the Moby. I'm doing the best I can photographing her with my camera in the air and me shooting blindly!

Cheers,
jewels

Soccer Mom bellingham photographer

2009-05-21T10:06:00.000-07:00

I experienced my first season of being an official "Soccer Mom." It was everything I hoped it would be---and more... OK. So I really had no expectations since I still know nothing about soccer, and I'm a Harrell. All Harrell boys are soccer players, and I don't know how my husband looked passed this "flaw" of mine when he chose to marry me. Luckily for him, Madeline has taken a liking to the sport. I love the Whactom County Youth Soccer Association because the young kids play games of 3 v 3 so they can learn the sport better. Of course there's still a lot of random cartwheels on the field with these 5 year old girls! Here's to our first season of Soccer! Great job Madeline scoring your goals!

Cheers,
jewels

Newborn Baby Cooper {bellingham newborn photographer}

2009-04-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

Well, it's clearly been a while since I've been around. We have been enjoying being a family of 4, and I've been enjoying my maternity leave. That's the nice thing about owning your own business... you get to declare your own length of leave! ;) Well, I am slowly starting to take on small shoots---no weddings for a while, but I will be taking 2010 reservations :) But enough of that talk, I'm so super excited to show you some scrumptious photos of Cooper Fuller. You might remember his sister Londan from last year... yes they are 14 months apart (Go Mom and Dad)!!! He and Clara are becoming best buds, he even bought her a bracelet!! But with out further ado, here is Cooper.

WE HAD OUR BABY!!!

2009-03-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

Weclome Clara Joyce Harrell

On Sunday March 15th, at 1:04 pm Clara Joyce was born. 7 lbs 11oz and ~20 inches long she is a beautiful little peanut! More photos coming soon... as soon as we are less sleep deprived :)

Cheers,
jewels

Learning to Sew

2009-03-05T17:19:00.000-08:00

My mom gave Madeline her first sewing lesson over Christmas time. Tracy, my sister, and I weren't too keen on learning how to sew growing up but Madeline loves whatever Grandma does! :) Her first lesson was learning how to make her own Barbie clothes by cutting holes in fabric for arms and then tying the pieces on with ribbon or string. Well, today Madeline made some more clothes, and this time used tape to "sew" them together. I think it's pretty cute. Madeline said she wanted to be a "fashion designer." We'll keep her in touch with her Aunt Katherine

Cheers,
jewels

Kristen and Peter Wedding bellingham wedding photographer

2009-02-09T23:49:00.000-08:00

Kristen and Peter had the most BEAUTIFUL winter wedding last month! And winter it was--they barely dodged one of Western Washington's biggest snow storms ever. The weather, however, was perfect for their wedding. It was a little chilly, but it didn't stop Kristen and Peter from playing outside. Photographing this wedding, I was joined by the Evantide team, Aaron and Meg Nelson. We had too much fun shooting, and it took forever to narrow down the perfect photos from the day! I guess thats what I get for hiring the best photographers in town to shoot a wedding with me! Kristen and Peter, I cannot even begin to tell you how much we enjoyed your wedding, your families, and your awesome wedding party! I hope you enjoy your photos! I know I love em and wish I could post them all on here!

Cheers,
jewels

Aaron's sweet ring shot!

Meg pulling out all the stops!

Peter's family was very excited for this wedding!

Londan Grace Turns 1 bellingham child photographer

2009-02-01T20:47:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Londan!! :) I cannot believe that this little girl is already one! It seems like yesterday we were just doing her newborn photos. In a couple months I'll be doing her soon-to-be brother's newborn photos. YAY! Londan was just about perfect for her photoshoot, except that she flat out didn't like the cake. Dee, luckily, made 2 cakes. One for the party, which Londan had nothing to do with, and one for the photoshoot. We tried hiding Cheerios on the cake, but that didn't work. Finally mom just broke into the cake and let her taste it. She was good from there on out and was quite a little lady eating... we had to help get her messy!

Cheers,
jewels

Where have I been??

2009-01-28T19:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, I took a way too long break from blogging, and I have no excuses! I am, however, alive (thanks for all those concerned). And I did not go into pre-term labor (thanks again for the emails wondering if I had). I've just been enjoying my last trimester of pregnancy...maybe a little too much (No, I only like one twist in my lemonade--thankyouverymuch).

I am so excited to show these next few images with you! An amazing photographer, Emily Weaver Brown, in Seattle, did my maternity photos. I would recommend her to anyone looking for newborn, family, or maternity photography. Her work is impressive and the quality is amazing. I also had the privilege of looking at her film portfolio too! I am just so happy to have these photos to remember being pregnant! They are beautiful! Thanks for letting me share these, Emily!

Cheers,
jewels

27 Weeks Pregnant

2008-12-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

Today Madeline donned my camera and shot a few frames of me at 27 weeks pregnant! I'm one week away from when I gave birth to her--at 28 weeks. I think my belly is popped out more than it was with Madeline, but since I don't have many photos I can't be too sure! Anyways, here I am, a little out of focus, but I have quiet a few years to train my budding photographer!

Cheers,
jewels

The Perfect Tree: 2008

2008-12-07T12:58:00.000-08:00

What do you get when you take five children (five years old and under) three pregnant ladies, a big open forest, a little bit of snow, and a few big trucks--oh yeah, and 3 guys sharing an axe? You get the perfect Christmas tree. We had a great time with up on Mt. Rainier cutting down our tree. It's always good to know that $10.00 will get you a 12 foot Noble Fir! Pretty cool-huh?!

Cheers,
jewels

la fleur.partie deux

2008-11-21T11:09:00.000-08:00

TAG!! Who's Next?

2008-11-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

My friend Steph Z tagged me on her blog :) I'm supposed to share the 4th photo on my blog in my 4th folder of blog-life. So of course, it's Madeline--What are the odds?! This was taken June of 2007. I completely forgot about these photos, but I love her vibrant blue eyes, and her funky little curl! She had just come back from swimming. So find out if you are one of my 4 tagees are after the photo...

Aaron, Jess, Emily, Heather

So you lucky people get to find the 4th photo in the 4th folder of your blog, and tell us about it!

Cheers,
jewels

Brett and Lindsay bellingham family photographer

2008-11-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

I learned an important lesson while shooting Brett and Lindsay: Never schedule a photo-shoot during a Seahawks game!! I should have known better to have a football schedule on my desk. When I worked as a realtor's assistant, I kept a list of games taped on the inside of my desk, so I wouldn't schedule open houses during Seahawks games--now I know. When I told Brett and Lindsay to meet me at the cemetery, I think they thought I was crazy, but the warm evening light is so nice there, and we were in an area with out, um, graves. Brett and Lindsay are expecting their first child in April of 2009, and during the shoot I kept joking that "they just needed get pregnant." This was a couple weeks before I knew they actually were. I'm excited for your new baby, and I'm going to love photographing him/her too... I know you haven't asked me to yet, but I'm just going to do it anyways! Enjoy your photos my friends, I had a great time with the both of you!

Cheers,
jewels

Jeff and Vicki Wedding bellingham wedding photographer

2008-11-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

Jeff and Vicki were married at the beautiful Bellingham Golf and Country Club. The day welcomed us with rain, but we kicked it inside, warm and cozy! Vicki was classy and relaxed, and Jeff was really relaxed too, and l know why! :) Can't say on here, but if you get a chance to talk to him, he'll share the details! I also had the pleasure of taking my good friend Chris Frerichs with me to help shoot the wedding. Chris actually did our family portraits a couple years ago so it was fun to work with him from the other side of the camera. The ceremony was beautiful. Jeff and Vicki wrote vows to each other, and when Jeff started to read his, I couldn't help but laugh! He, somehow, in the most eloquent way, had taken lyrics from popular songs to express his love to Vicki. It was amazing. The crowed was in hysterics laughing one minute, then the tenderness at the end had us all crying, even Jeff. They were the best vows I've ever heard, "I'm forever yours---faithfully," Jeff said to Vicki (taken from a Journey song). So even though the rain poured harder than it had in months, it didn't hinder anyone's spirit, love, or especially dancing abilities!! And wow, can I say there was some amazing dancing! Jeff and Vicki, it was so much fun to be a part of your wedding day! Enjoy your photos!

Cheers,
jewels

And there's nothing like a little elevator smootchin!!

ITS OFFICIAL

2008-10-29T10:17:00.001-07:00

The Harrell Family is excited to announce that:

I'm 21 weeks pregnant, just returned home from an ultrasound, and we are having a baby....................

Sucking her thumb no less! I guess we'll have to find another "bunny" for her!

EXCITING NEWS!!!!! Coming to you tomorrow... STAY TUNED :)

2008-10-28T12:43:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow morning I'll have a secret to share...

Cheers,
jewels

Post # 101

2008-10-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Crazy, I've posted on my blog over 100 times! I didn't know I had that much to say?! Well, maybe I did. I tend to be quite the chatterbox. Have I told you I don't keep secrets very well? It's not that I want to disclose personal information, I'm just so excited for people, I can't hold it in! So lesson to learn, don't tell me things you don't want others to know! OK...I'm not that bad. Anyways, it has been beautiful in Western Washington this fall, it's like eye candy! Madeline and I enjoyed a peaceful afternoon up at Silver Lake, she was picking leaf bouquets, and I was with my camera.

Cheers,
jewels

Rose and Jessy Wedding bellingham wedding photographer

2008-10-23T14:04:00.001-07:00

I sometimes cry at weddings... well, I almost always get teary-eyed, and Rose and Jessy's wedding was no different! There was just so much love, and excitement that day, I couldn't help myself! Rose looked like a million, and Jessy was dazzling in his tux! I sometimes was so caught up in the moment, I forgot that I was the photographer. Luckily, I had Eric Dustrude shooting with me--who's talent always amazes me! He did something pretty special for the couple, but I can't share until they know! I promise I'll update the blog when they know! It's a neat surprise! Rose and Jessy, it was a pleasure to celebrate with you, and be apart of your amazingly awesome DANCE PARTY! :)

Cheers,
jewels

What's For Dinner Mom?

2008-10-20T22:57:00.001-07:00

Yesteray, Madeline and I made homemade Chicken Noodle soup, with my mom's egg noodle recipe. YUM!!! It was so delicious. I used half the noodles for the soup, and froze the other half for another day. I'll attach my recipe for the soup and for the noodles... and just to give it a kick, I finish off my bowl with nice tablespoon of cream! ;)
Cheers,
jewels

Recipe:

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2-3 cloves minced garlic
1 medium onion
3-4 celery stalks chopped
3 carrots chopped
2 medium skinless/boneless chicken breasts thawed, or cooked and shredded
64 oz chicken stock (or broth)
Dash of red pepper flakes
Dash of oregano (or parsley)
Salt and Pepper to taste
Egg Noodles (recipe to follow)

Optional garnishes:
More red pepper flakes
Green Onion
Chives
Cream

Saute garlic in the olive oil and butter, add onions and saute until soft. Add Celery and carrots, and saute for a few minutes longer. Add chicken breasts, whole if not cooked, and chicken stalk along with seasonings. Let simmer until breasts are cooked through. Remove the breasts and shred with forks, and return to soup. Bring to a boil and add half or more of the noodles to the soup---however many you want. Reduce heat, and simmer at least 45 minutes (or until noodles are tender throughout).

Dish into bowls, garnish with whatever! And enjoy with some warm yeast rolls!

Mom's egg noodles:

2 1/2 cups flour
2-3 eggs (I like to mix mine first)
1-2 half eggshells of milk
dash of salt (and pepper if you want)

Sift four and spices, make a well inside the flour to hold the eggs and milk, pour eggs (either whole or beaten) into the well. Add 1/2 an eggshell of milk, and mix. It may need more moisture, mine did today, so add another 1/2 shell of milk if needed. Dough should be sticky enough to roll into a ball, but not so much that it cannot be rolled out. Roll the dough into a ball and let sit for 1/2 an hour. Dust the rolling area with a generous amount of flour and roll the dough to 1/8 in thick. Cut your noodles with cookie cutters, or a pizza cutter. I like to let mine dry for a while before adding them to the soup, but you could very well stick them in boiling water right away. They also freeze very well!

Enjoy

Good Mail

2008-10-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

So a year or so ago, I joined a bunch of friends and foes (well not foes... but it sounded good) with goodmail! What is goodmail? Well, you have a list of addresses from everyone in the group, and whenever you feel like it you send goodmail to people. It could be a card, candy, note. I've received yarn, vintage piano music, notebooks, chocolate! :) There are no rules besides that! I mean, we all get icky bills, ads, and who knows what else in our boxes, why not a package here or there?! I love it, and since I've been a horrible goodmail sender, I was surprised to find a package in the mail from my friend Stephani! :) I have to say it completely made my day! And you know what else came in the mail the same day? (Of course not, because you don't check my mail...) A really cute halloween card from my photog friend, Val, all the way from New York! :) Thanks Val!

Cheers,
jewels

The Photographer's Child

2008-10-17T09:29:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts about being a photographer with a child is that I can usually convince (i mean bribe) her into doing a "photoshoot." Especially when I find new locations for shooting. I took Madeline out to the field, and made her do a few things I wanted, then let her run around in the tall weeds. I find that if I don't "coach" her, I get better photos. Oh, and the constant reminder that we can make brownies at home doesn't hurt either! I cannot believe how big she is, when they told me time goes fast, I didn't think they meant this fast!

Cheers,
jewels

Summer's End Photos

2008-10-15T18:09:00.001-07:00

Here are a few snapshots of Chris and Madeline from this summer. I totally forgot about them until I started cleaning out my folders! I cannot believe that it is fall, and almost time for Halloween and Thanksgiving. Which reminds me that I need to come up with my Thanksgiving Day menu...unless you want to invite us over for dinner ;)

Cheers,
jewels

Justin + Amanda, ENGAGED bellingham engagement photographer

2008-10-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy to be blogging again! I've been out of commission because of a move. We moved from our house into a condo... it turned out to be an emergency move, but we are happier and healthier in our new place... AND I'm back on the photography circuit. So I'll be posting some more of my catch-up work in then next week or so! Thanks for your patience. I'm so excited to share these photos of Justin and Amanda. Amanda has been one of my dearest friends since our freshman year of college. My life wouldn't be the same with out her....it would probably be a mess. She keeps me on track! She is getting married in May, to Justin, whom I also met my freshman year of college, and he is super fun and charming himself! It's been fun finding potential photographers for her wedding (I'd do it, but I'm in it). She decided to go with Ella Blue, a great husband and wife photography team in Seattle! I'm super excited to meet them. Their work is amazing. So, with out more rambling, here are Justin and Amanda's long anticipated engagement photos!

Cheers,
jewels

Kristen + Peter. In Love Session bellingham engagement photographer

2008-09-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

It was a fun adventure shooting engagement photos with Kristen and Peter. The morning greeted us with downpour, but we continued on our journey to Hope, BC. We scrambled down to Emery Creek for the session and afterwards went to Hell's Gate for dinner, a gondola ride, panning for gold, and yummy treats! We had such an amazing day, and the rain actually stopped for the duration of our shoot (well, mostly). The day couldn't have been more perfect! Chris and I had so much fun with you two! I hope you enjoy your photos!

Cheers,
jewels