Thursday, July 9, 2009

Crafty B*atch, July Fourth, & Introducing America's Original Top Model...Tracey Elaine Hale


Happy summer everyone! I can't believe it is already mid-July! Geesh, this summer is flying by so quickly. We have been pretty busy, with Pj traveling for work, I have had my hands FULL. With that said, I have still made time to do a little crafting on the side. My new obsession...MODGE PODGE. I love it. I told Pj the other day, that I wanted to modge podge the house. I think it reminds me of my Grandma Graves. The smell, the packaging...everything about it. (She used to Modge Podge rocks, old jars and turn them into lamps, basically anything with a hard surface was free-game.) I seem to have that same recycle-reuse approach...especially with all of the diaper boxes we have collected. They are way too nice to throw away! (Who knew I would ever consider a cardboard box a treasure.) Anyhoo, I have been modge-podging boxes with scraps of favorite fabric for our open pantry. I even created a fantastical mobile for Jasper's nursery...

Spiral Tap

(It is just the right weight, that when the ceiling fan blows, they twist and turn...quite a mesmerizing sight.)



I have also completed some simple sewing projects, some quick curtains for our guest room...



...and some pantry covers...


I hope everyone had a wonderful July Fourth vacation. We made the long overdue visit to Pj's dad's place on the Chesapeake Bay, (Reedville, VA). He has done a great job with the place. I am so jealous of his retirement spot. Pj's brother, Brian and girlfriend Cheryl made the trip from D.C. as well. We had a great time! Especially after drinking one of Cheryl's delicious mojitos. I love those drinks...maybe a bit too much! Here are some pics of our visit...

The view from Kent's retirement crib
(that is the inlet in the background)


The view to the right...
(you can spot the water in the background)


Gracie, Kent's new baby


Kent and his new grill...
(We had a scary moment the day prior. Think lit cigarette, gas leak and renegade grill...not good.)


Pops & Jasper



Jasper's first time in the kiddie pool!


The sunblock looked like clown makeup, and gave this awfully scary tint to Jasper's sweet complexion. All in the name of good skincare, I guess.


Jasper totally resembles his Daddy in this pic...



Once again, I came across some great old photos while I was living with Mom & Dad. While going thru our family albums, I realized my sister, Tracey is a complete ham. There are few "nonchalant" photos of her, she seems to be aware of the camera at all times. Here are a few that cracked me up...We will start from the beginning...

She appears to be a little startled by the flash...

Her fashion sense is developing at a young age...




Working Dixie Avenue... "Work It, work it! You are Fierce, more hip, more shoulder...."


"...actually roll around in the grass....WORK IT!"

(You may be asking yourself, Who is that adorable baby in the stroller...um, that is yours truly. I was a very cute baby, I cannot tell a lie.)


These next three photos are the sign of a real professional...Notice Tracey NEVER looses eye contact with the camera.

I am showing interest in this fun stuffed animal in the box game,


Tracey appeases me, at least for a little while...(remain eye contact.)


I get da boot and obviously start crying...Tracey maintains her composure. Anything for the shot! Tyra would be so proud.


Whoa, I have never seen anyone work a blanket and industrial park quite like this...


This look is the classic Tracey shot...there were too many photos representing the "Don't hate me because I'm beautiful" expression. A look we should all master.


I believe Mom was proud of her tulips...but Tracey noticed the prime lens opportunity.



*Professhional disclaimer* Poses and scenarios captured in these photos were done by a professional. Reinact at your own risk.