Simply Craig

One of the hardest parts about dance recitals... No cameras allowed on performance night. Thankfully, a few days before the big show, the studio held a dress rehearsal where parents were welcome to bring their cameras. Well... Let's just say I didn't disappoint. I definitely brought mine. I couldn't wait to capture a few moments of the girls on stage. There's something magical about watching them perform. The bright lights. The music. The excitement. And those huge smiles that say they're loving every second of it. These two have absolutely loved their jazz class this year, and I've loved having a front-row seat to watch them learn, grow, and gain confidence. It's amazing how much joy a little music and a pair of dancing shoes can bring. Did I ever mention how much I love having girls? Watching them twirl across the stage, giggle with their friends, and pour their little hearts into every performance has been one of my greatest joys. I'm so grateful I ha...

How is it possible that our birthday boy is already twelve? It seems like just yesterday he was a little boy running around the house, and now he's growing into such an incredible young man. The years have gone by much too quickly. Yes, he's handsome. Yes, he's smart. Yes, he's athletic. But what we love most about Wesley is something you can't see in a photograph. He is incredibly self-motivated. He's the kind of kid who sees what needs to be done... and simply does it. He rarely needs to be reminded, pushed, or persuaded. As a parent, I sometimes joke that I could have had ten children if they had all been like Wesley. He has made parenting such a joy. Even more important than all of his talents is the goodness in his heart. Throughout his life, he has shown a remarkable ability to love and serve others. Whether it's helping without being asked or quietly looking out for those around him, he has always had a desire to do what is right. Now, as he turns twe...

Seven years ago, our family was blessed with this beautiful little girl. She has a cheerful countenance that naturally lifts everyone around her. Her parents feel incredibly blessed to call her ours. Her sister adores her. Her brothers are always looking out for her. Her friends love spending time with her. And her giggles and smiles have a way of brightening every room she enters. Her personality shines through in these photographs. They're full of joy, sweetness, confidence, and just a little sparkle. She truly is our little beauty queen. Happy 7th Birthday, Goldie! We love you more than words can say and are so grateful for the happiness you bring into our family every single day. Keep smiling, sweet girl. The world is a brighter place because you're in it.

Today was a big day. Nathan officially joined the braces club. I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Would there be lots of complaining? Sore teeth? A little bit of grumpiness? Surprisingly... None of the above. He handled it like a champ. I was impressed. Braces may not be the most exciting milestone in a kid's life, but they're certainly one they'll never forget. Here's to the beginning of a smile you'll have for the rest of your life.

Are you one of those moms who never throws away crayons? I have a confession... I used to be one of them. Our crayons usually lived in an old recycled baby wipe container that was overflowing with broken pieces, missing wrappers, and crayons that had definitely seen better days. Every once in a while, we'd add a brand new crayon... Usually one that found its way home from a restaurant. Why? I honestly have no idea. A new box of crayons only costs a few dollars! Looking back, I'm not sure why I didn't just replace them every few months. I've always been a fairly simple person. I don't like clutter, and I love having a place for everything so I can actually find it when I need it. Eventually, I found a solution that completely changed the way I organized all the little things around the house. I picked up these photo storage boxes from OfficeMax, and they've been one of my favorite organizing purchases. Each box holds six smaller containers, making it easy to sepa...

Watching my garden go from this... To this... Has been such a delight. Well... At least to me! What started as a little gardening adventure has turned into one of the most rewarding experiences I've had. I couldn't have done it without my gardening sister. She patiently taught me a thing or two, and before long I found myself completely caught up in the excitement of planting, watering, waiting, and watching things grow. That excitement never really went away. I've discovered that I truly enjoy gardening. There's something incredibly peaceful about stepping outside in the early morning while the world is still quiet, breathing in the fresh air, and taking in the sights and smells of everything growing in the soil. It's become one of my favorite ways to start the day. I suppose I can officially say... I'm a gardener. Okay... That might be stretching it a little. After all, this is only my first year. Maybe "beginning gardener" is a little more accurate....

One of the best parts of a family wedding is having everyone together again. The wedding brought family from near and far, and I loved every minute of it. There was so much laughter, so many hugs, and so many opportunities to catch up with people we don't get to see nearly often enough. While everyone was together, my sister asked if I would take a few pictures of her children. I was honored. Photographing family is always special, and these three made my job easy. My nieces and nephew are simply adorable. Their sweet smiles, playful personalities, and genuine love for one another shine through in every photograph.