As we approach the anniversary of the day the world lost an inspiring woman at way too young an age (only 19), Kaila May Craig's memory remains as strong as ever...

Family and friends have fashioned elaborate graveside scenes, placed seasonal roadside tributes at the accident site, decorated fanciful cookies on Kaila's birthday, painted beautiful images on rocks, hiked up a mountain in her honor, and consistently shared photos and memories online.

A fun-loving spirit with a passion for astronomy, travel, and the outdoors, Kaila's artistic talent has inspired many of these beautiful endeavors to keep her memory alive. An amazing mural painted by loving friends and fellow students was installed at Big Picture High School. The stunning artwork features images inspired by Kaila's own designs and love of nature, including an eye in the sky, as well as a bright yellow sun that represents Kaila's nickname ('Sunshine').

You can read more about the mural installed in Kaila's honor at Big Picture High School in this Durango Herald article: https://durangoherald.com/articles/290323-teens-memorialize-friend-with-mural-at-big-picture-high-school?fbclid=IwAR2zZyGMN9BjFQ4sJ9Z6JxxA0giF_cvt7s2f-jByY0AwQMRJdwjb7jgp2tA

Proving to be quite the artist herself, Kaila's aunt, Natalie, has been designing intricately detailed fairy houses. She places these amazing pieces of artwork in special places in the woods for others to find. Those lucky enough to encounter these enchanted locations are spellbound by the incredible love that has gone into every little detail. Children and adults alike become enthralled by the meticulously decorated mini homes, complete with tiny little teapots inspired by Kaila's love of tea, as well as other magnificent comforts fit for a mischievous little fairy princess. These marvelous creations are adorned with whimsical tiny rock and flower gardens, miniature swings, wishing wells, picket fences, little colorful mushrooms, friendly creatures, and other charming surprises.

If you are wishing you could add your own piece of love to Kaila's memory as we approach the anniversary date of her untimely departure, there is a way for you to contribute as well.

Kaila's roadside memorial has been temporary up until now, with friends and family visiting the location on occasion to refresh the various items at the site. These temporary things left along the road can be affected by weather and deteriorate over time. It is now time for something more permanent.

The family has found a website that has inspired some ideas for a permanent roadside memorial sculpture in Kaila's honor. Some examples of sketch design images are shown below. You can also visit the website at this address to see some finished art sculpture: https://fantasywire.co.uk/

The sculpture the family has in mind for Kaila's roadside memorial will incorporate solid metal elements for the body, while using a whimsical wire design for the hair and other elements (wings and a dandelion seed coming off the hand). One work in particular, called ‘Ascension,' (sketch shown below) is very similar to the desired sculpture.

Here are a few examples of how the hair, wings, dandelion, and even a nearby butterfly can be made with recycled wire.

A local artist and friend of the family has agreed to work on this project, using these beautiful designs as inspiration. If you would like to help contribute to the cost of the materials, your support would be extremely appreciated and show Gina and Scott you are thinking of them as they come to the end of what has been an extremely difficult first year without their beloved daughter.

Please stay safe and healthy in the months to come. Remember to hug those dear to you very tight. If you cannot be with those you love in person, then please find another way to let them know how much you care.

In loving memory of Kaila May…