lindsay powell photography

the butterfly project | chicago children's photographer

Last summer for Valerie's birthday, Grandma & Grandpa J sent her a butterfly kit.  It had the little cup of goo and a few larvae, the net/habitat for the chrysalis, and a great book about the process!  We loved it so much.  In making my summer bucket list, I thought about this and thought I'd share in case you want to add it to yours!  We will definitely do it again.

This is the kit we have!  You order the larvae/live little caterpillars separately.. although there is a coupon inside for that purchase if you want to wait and order it once it arrives.  The whole process takes 2-3 weeks, so think about that in your planning.  We actually had a vacation planned up north to Door County and our chrysallis's hadn't hatched into butterflies yet.. so the butterfly habitat came with us. :)  Here's a photo of ours just before we set them free into the garden! 

jumping | chicago family photographer

I'm learning to jump. 

This last year has been really painful but also a huge path of growth for me.  Trying to keep a smile on your face for your children when your marriage is crumbling is pretty much the hardest thing I've ever had to do.  In fact, I failed many times.  Everyone from my best friends, to aquaintances, to strangers seems to have an opinion on your marriage once it fails.  Some supportive and comforting, some very much the latter.  I had to put on my big girl pants and decide my own truths.  The sort that are between me and God, and let everyone else's go.  I am turning 30 this summer and I am really feeling like I actually know who I am, where I want to go, and what's really important (and who!).  There are still tough days, but for the most part, the chickadees and I are doing great.

I used to blog a lot more.  I used to put myself out there and at some point started holding back a lot more.  Maybe I needed that season of growth and maybe I cared too much what others might think.  At some point you have to let go of that and just live your life for you. 

Part of this freedom comes from the amazing guy by my side. 

Roger is kind, soft spoken, and very intentional about everything he does, and everything he says.  He trusts God with his whole heart.  He picks me up when I fall to pieces.  His eyes sparkle blue like the ocean and seem to smile on their own.  He is known for his integrity and good character. He loves me for me.

Roger loves my three girls and they adore him.  He has three children of his own, each one year older than mine, so at some point this winter we had children of ages: 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, & 2.  Seriously.  We do get stared at everywhere we go, and I do believe people flinch when we walk into a restaurant.  However we also get a lot of compliments at the end of the meal.  I think people are shocked we manage to hold it together.  Roger once said to me, "If you can handle three.. and I can handle three.. WE can handle six."  That's the kind of guy he is.

It's a delicate balance, creating a blended family, and we are trying to do it right.  We are trying to be intentional about every decision.  We are blessed that both sets of kiddos have two sets of parents around to help raise them and be active in their lives.  I feel like I've gained so much love, a lot of laundry, and a whole lot of blessings.

We have been dubbed the Brady Bunch.. but Mrs. Brady had Alice. 

Really, Crayola? | Chicago Child Photographer

As I was digging through my box of summer stuff to bring out (yeah!!), I found a bottle of Crayola's colored bubbles.  Have you tried this stuff?   When I first saw the ads of children having fun with a rainbow of bubbles around them I obviously went straight to portraits.  I could picture a family having fun in a field of tall grasses, kids running around with colored bubbles everywhere.  Fun!!

Last summer we tried these fun bubbles out and I have to say.. they were a mess.  Now as a disclaimer, we did try this with a two year old, but I'll share our results. 

Grandma Debbie ended up with green sprayed all over her and Maddie had green hands and lips.  She did have fun but boy, it was messy!  Did any of you try these bubbles and have better luck? 

wonder woman! | chicago lake county il children's photographer

She's a bit of a firecracker.  I was picturing a sweet photo of her in her favorite shirt, which used to be her sister's favorite shirt.. the Wonder Woman t-shirt (from Old Navy).  Red tulips, sweet rain boots.. beautiful light.  Well the sun came out, the 'tude came with it, and I love it even more.  Snapshots are meant to document life -as it is- .. not a staged family.  Sometimes, ya just go with it! 

My Valentine: Special Offer! Save 30%! | {libertyville illinois children's photographer}

If you're like me, you were so busy during the holiday's that you didn't get your cards sent out this year.  Take advantage of these special savings and send a card full of LOVE!

Your Valentine's mini will include an 8x10 and a digital image of your choice so that you can create cards, valentine's, and gifts for friends & family!

I will also be offering special savings on select product bundles!

DATES:

Tuesday January 31

Saturday February 4

30 minute session times between 9am-4pm

 

DETAILS:

    *30 minute session is limited to four children per session (for purposes of time constraints).  If you need more time to accomodate your family or have special circumstances, please contact me.  Sessions may include one child, sibling groups, buddies, or the whole family!

    *Quick turnaround time!  Galleries will be posted the following day.  Digital files will be emailed when  choice is made. 

    *All-inclusive session fee must be paid to hold your time slot.  Fee is non-refundable but may be applied toward a future session, full or mini, in case of a cancellation.

    *Session location TBA.  Lake County Forest Preserve.  Tall wheat colored grasses make excellent textured backdrops for pops of color!  Bring bright winter gear or wear funky layers!  Feel free to bring your child's favorite lovey or toy, dress up clothes, or a fun blanket.  I will have some chairs, blankets, and props as well.

Email me to sign up and for available session times ~ lindsaypowellphotography@yahoo.com