Craig Spiesman is a retired Restoration Account Manager whose values were shaped by a middle-class upbringing in Parsippany, New Jersey. From an early age, he learned the importance of consistency, responsibility, and showing up for others. Those principles carried him through a successful career and now guide a retirement filled with curiosity, connection, and gratitude. Craig approaches each day with intention, balancing personal interests with community involvement and meaningful time with the people he loves most.
Craig’s passion for amateur photography emerged during extensive travels across the Southeastern United States and multiple trips to the Hawaiian Islands. With only his iPhone in hand, he developed an eye for natural beauty and everyday moments worth preserving. His photos range from the rolling hills of Northern Georgia to the beaches of Hilton Head, the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast, and sunsets over Kauai. He especially treasures candid shots of life shared with his wife, Cindy, capturing memories that tell their story and keep those moments alive.
Golf has become a regular and rewarding part of Craig’s routine. He frequents courses throughout the Atlanta suburbs, where the game is as much about companionship as it is about scorecards. While his swing may not be perfect, the conversations, laughter, and shared experiences keep him coming back. Midweek evenings often shift indoors, where Craig enjoys billiards at the community clubhouse. Friendly rivalry during weekly eight-ball tournaments keeps his competitive spirit alive and adds another layer of social connection.
Family plays a central role in Craig’s happiness. He and Cindy relocated to Georgia to be closer to four generations of her family, all living within a short drive of their home in Hoschton. Sunday lunches at Chris and Gail’s house are a highlight, filled with home-cooked meals, laughter, and storytelling. Cindy and her cousin Chris often reminisce about their childhood in Athens, while others contribute stories of growing up in the country. Craig deeply values these gatherings, seeing them as the foundation of a rich and meaningful life.
Every Sunday, Craig and Cindy attend Southside Church, where their faith is continually renewed. They appreciate the warmth and sincerity of Pastor Jeff and Assistant Pastor Allen, whose messages focus on encouragement and resilience. No matter what challenges the week has brought, they leave feeling uplifted and grounded. The church serves as a spiritual anchor, reinforcing their sense of purpose and reminding them of the importance of kindness, reflection, and gratitude in daily life.
Retirement has given Craig Spiesman the freedom to give back in ways that matter to him. As a member of the local men’s club in the Cresswind Twin Lakes community, he enjoys helping neighbors with home maintenance and everyday tasks. Living in a fifty-five-and-over community has shown him how crucial mutual support can be. Craig believes strongly in neighbors helping neighbors and takes pride in being part of a place where people look out for one another.
One of Craig’s more surprising discoveries in retirement has been pickleball. Curious after settling into the community, he picked up a paddle and joined neighbors for a casual introduction to the game. The fast pace, friendly competition, and shared laughter quickly won him over. What began as curiosity turned into a regular pastime, offering both exercise and another opportunity to build friendships within the community.
Craig and Cindy are currently enjoying the process of exploring Georgia together. Coming from New Jersey, Craig has been impressed by the state’s beautifully maintained golf courses and inviting resorts. Their travels include sampling peach cobbler at roadside diners, enjoying couples massages, and soaking in the scenery. Craig continues to document these moments with his iPhone, capturing misty mornings on the golf course and sunrises over Tybee Island.
As Craig’s days unfold, they form a tapestry woven from passion, service, and love for family and community. He measures success not by accolades, but by friendships, shared laughter, and quiet moments at home with Cindy. For Craig Spiesman, retirement is not a conclusion. It is a beginning filled with intention, discovery, and memories made one photograph and one meaningful moment at a time.
Portfolio 1: https://craigspiesman.com/