hi Denise,
I think .jpg files can be quite beautiful, and sometimes RAW is just not needed!
RAW has more image/pixel info, as many people point out. And I do use it myself for client shoots with studio lights, or portrait shoots, so I can fine-tune the white balance and skin color. But I get amazing pictures of my dd everyday with "just" .jpg file that make me happy. A lot of a good photo is light and composition, and I have a easy workflow with my .jpg fines that suits my everyday needs.
I'd recommend to give RAW another try or two, using Photoshop to tweak the levels/curves/sharpening/white balance. You may be very pleased with what you get! It DOES take time and practice to figure out how to get the RAWs to lose that gray and get the punch. But don't feel bad about sticking to .jpg fine for everyday shots, either. If you are getting good photos, and your workflow suits you, then that's OK, too!
I still love me a good .jpg!
