72 more days.

... until my last name changes from "Forbus" to "LaVere." There is still much to do, and I have been engaged for a year and a half now! Brides-to-be, planning ahead is the best road to take, I tell ya.

Speaking of planning ahead, D&D officially won the title for "First 2011 Wedding Booked." I met with them on Thursday to discuss their wedding and engagement session... and *I* can't wait for both! All of D's beach theme planning ideas and gorgeous gown has me antsy for both events. It's so amusing because D&D have a very similar dynamic with each other that Rusty and I do (e.g., laid back "I'm gonna wear a tux t-shirt to the ceremony" guy, detail-oriented "You better not, or I'll revoke your getting-dressed privileges" girl). I love it.

I just know once my wedding is over I will have bridal withdrawls. Thankfully, I am in such a profession where I can live vicariously through my clients. ;)

This weekend is devoted to my own wedding details mayhem, and so I leave this week's entry with a few photos from last weekend's photo op.

-- Chelsea :)

Lions, tigers, and bears (without the lions, tigers, and bears).

My husband-to-be and I recently went to the Virginia Zoo (formerly the Norfolk Zoo). Even though I've called Hampton Roads my home for 15 years, I had never gone before! For someone who is spoiled by the San Diego Zoo's awesomeness, the Virginia Zoo is really nice.

The animals were in adequate enclosures (not too constricting at all), and there was plenty of space for visitors to move about. The water fountains are right there at the entrance (as you can see below)... there were a ton of kids just playing and squealing. It was pretty adorable.

I couldn't help but think that it'd be a perfect spot for senior or engagement portraits (if they didn't mind getting a little wet, of course!). :)

Norfolk, Virginia

-- Chelsea :)

By Chance.

The moment this dog wiggled his tail at me, the moment I fell in love with him. Chance has to be the most affectionate (with no licks!) and expressive canine I have ever met. Thank you, C, for letting me photograph him!

Dallas, Texas

-- Chelsea :)