Kristy Craigle - Palm Coast Local Business Insider

Palm Coast Local’s Twelfth Business Insider Features Kristy Craigle – Longtime Resident, Loving Mom & Children’s Book Author

We first met Kristy Craigle during the Washington Oaks Earth Day celebration back in April 2025. She caught our eye as she strolled past our table, gently pushing a stroller with purpose in her step.

To slow her pace, we offered her little one a Sammy Seaturtle sticker. Kristy paused with a warm smile and a cheerful “Yes!”—a small moment that sparked a meaningful conversation.

As she glanced at our display of Business Insider cover stories, her eyes lit up. “Oh, I know him!” she said, pointing to one of our featured locals. Naturally curious, Kristy leaned in and asked, “What is this all about?” After we explained, her smile widened. “Could I be a candidate?” she asked, and with that, she began sharing her story—one that reflects a deep love for family, art, education, and the Palm Coast community.

Born in Yardley, Pennsylvania, and grew up in Levittown, just outside Philadelphia. “It was a great place to grow up—we were right in between the Jersey beaches and the Poconos,” she recalled. Her creative path began early, graduating from Bucks County Technical High School where she studied Commercial Art. She went on to earn an Associate’s degree in Fine Arts from Bucks County Community College, followed by a Bachelor's in Art Education from Temple University. Always passionate about holistic living, Kristy also completed studies at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, becoming a certified Holistic Health Practitioner.

Since moving to Palm Coast 11 years ago, Kristy has become connected in the community. She works part-time with the Palm Coast Parks and Recreation Department at the Palm Coast Community Center, where she teaches a range of programs including toddler classes, homeschool and adult art, kids’ cooking, and her personal favorite Family Art Night, curently a free event held the last Friday of every month. “All the supplies are provided,” Kristy said, “so families can come together, get creative, and just enjoy a welcoming space.”

“I’m a full-time mom, so most of my time is spent adventuring around town with my kids,” she said. Some of their favorite local spots include Waterfront Park, Princess Place Preserve, and the Flagler beaches. “We love catching live bands at the Golden Lion, watching the pelicans fly by from Tortugas, and relaxing at Loopers Par and Grill while the kids watch golfers,” she added. Her love of art and music also takes her to places like the Ormond Beach Gardens and Art Museum—“It’s such a hidden gem.” Kristy Offers.

But Kristy’s most personal and unique creation? Her newly published children’s book, Snurtle and the Ocean’s Hurdles.

“My book has been a dream of mine for over 15 years,” Kristy shared with a spark in her voice. “It’s truly one of a kind—I wrote the story and illustrated every page myself.”

Blending her artistic talents with her desire to educate children on environmental issues, Snurtle introduces young readers to the impact of plastic waste—specifically a lesser-known threat called nurdles.

Now, you may be wondering—what in the world is a nurdle? Kristy explains: “Nurdles are small plastic pellets, about the size of a lentil, that are melted down to make almost all plastic products. Billions are used each year to create things we use every day, and sadly, thousands of them spill into the environment—polluting oceans and beaches and harming the animals that live there.”

So, who exactly is Snurtle? We asked.

Snurtle is a playful, curious, and wise little sea turtle who is part snail, part turtle who lives near a peaceful shoreline with his adventurous fish friend, Finn. Together, the duo embarks on a vibrant underwater journey that introduces young readers to the importance of protecting our oceans. Through rhyming verse and whimsical illustrations, Snurtle and the Ocean’s Hurdles follows their exploration across colorful coral reefs, mysterious sea caves, and enchanted seaweed forests.

“Snurtle is more than just a character,” Kristy explained. “He’s a gentle guide for kids to learn how even small actions like picking up trash or rethinking plastic can make a huge impact on our environment.”

The story is perfect for young explorers who love animals, ocean life, and creative adventure. Alongside Snurtle and Finn, children learn not just the what, but the why of recycling and environmental care. And the fun doesn’t end on the last page either, Kristy included hands-on activities at the end of the book to help bring the story to life and inspire real-world action in imaginative ways. "And if parents, or grandparents reading the book get inspired too, that's even better."

Snurtle and the Ocean’s Hurdles is now available on Amazon, and for those looking for custom art, Kristy also creates and sells original pieces. “If anyone’s interested in freelance or personalized artwork, they can reach out to me directly,” she said.

Whether she’s leading an art class, chasing toddlers at the park, or spreading environmental awareness through storybooks, Kristy Craigle is one of those people who quietly enriches the heart of our community—one brushstroke, one smile, and one story at a time.

Community Support: You can help Kristy and young minds by purchasing her book on sale now at Amazon. If you know Kristy, or would like to give her a shout out of support, leave a comment below. You don't have to register. Fill out your name, and email for follow up comments and validation.