Cragmama "Not all who wander are lost…" JRR Tolkien

Category Archives: Creating a Cragbaby

Tackling issues and obstacles that you might encounter when taking your young folk to the crag.

Unveiling The Cragbaby Project!

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It’s here, its here!  Its finally here!  Those of you that have been reading for a while may remember “The Cragbaby Project.”  After learning about my then-new blog series “Creating a Cragbaby,” our professional photographer-turned-cinematographer friend Jan Balster had wanted to use our family as a lifestyle piece for his portfolio in hopes to attract more video gigs.   He wanted the documentary style film to capture the essence of an adventure-loving family outside doing what they love.  Jan shot footage of us on three different days – bouldering in Asheboro, roping up at Pilot Mountain, and an afternoon interview…Read the rest of this entry →

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On Choosing a Crag (Part 2)

On Choosing a Crag (Part 2)

“On Choosing a Crag (Part 1)” discussed some tips for choosing a great crag with a perfect approach.  This is the continuation of that post – applying those ideas to real life scenarios.  The following is a compilation of several baby and kid-friendly climbing areas that our family frequents throughout the Southeast. STARTER CRAGS –  From local jaunts to world-class rock, these areas are great first time crags suitable for the whole family, regardless of age. Pilot Mountain, NC – Certainly not a destination crag, but easy access and short approaches make it a great first-time spot. Sandrock, AL –…Read the rest of this entry →

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On Choosing a Crag (Part 1)

On Choosing a Crag (Part 1)

Everyone knows that not all crags are created equal – but the characteristics that make a climbing area perfect depend on what your climbing party is looking for. Who cares about the approach, you might say – don’t you just go where the climbing is good?!? It seems like a no-brainer for most folks…however since Cragbaby came along, we’ve realized that there is more to a great day than just great climbing. Here’s a list of the factors we consider when we are gearing up for a day out on the rocks. Distance – Remember that short little legs tire…Read the rest of this entry →

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A Perspective on Risk Assessment

A Perspective on Risk Assessment

“Do you take less risks in climbing now that you’re a mom?”  If I had a dollar for every time someone has asked me this since Cragbaby entered on the scene…well let’s face it, I wouldn’t be rich, but I would definitely be able to buy more $4 frappucinnos at Starbucks!  The funny thing is, I never really feel like I have a good answer for this question.  I feel like the “correct” answer is, “Yes, the responsibility of raising a little person has made me less risky of a climber.”  But if I’m being honest, I don’t really think much…Read the rest of this entry →

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Creating a Cragbaby: Always on “Doo-ty”

Creating a Cragbaby: Always on “Doo-ty”

Everyone knows its an unfortunate fact of life – “doo” happens.  And it doesn’t stop happening just because you’re out at the crag and its inconvenient.  Spend any length of time outdoors as a family, and sooner or later you’re gonna end up with a diaper explosion that rivals Mt. St. Helens…so you’d better be ready for it!  Read on to learn  the lowdown about dirty dipes in the woods! DISCLAIMER: I should toss it out there that we use cloth diapers.  It’s better for the environment, its better on the wallet, and most importantly, its better for baby’s bottom health. …Read the rest of this entry →

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“Not all who wander are lost.” —JRR TOLKIEN