Thursday, December 31, 2009

'09 Was Fine



It's time to say good bye to 2009.
For the most part, it was mighty fine.

Katie, Michele, & both Jenn's blew a horn,
To announce their healthy babies were born.

Jory & Sarah tied the knot.
Jared, Issac & Chrissy were taught
Then baptized, which is pretty hot.

Allyson, Emily, Camille, Jim Jr., Troy, Jenny & Jory,
Graduated from high school or college, end of story.

Dean, Derek & Brice served in the Aaronic Priesthood.
Todd & someone broke bones, which is not so good.

Katie, Cory, Brian, Loren, Emily, Allyson, Camille & Nate
All attend colleges that are first rate.

Surgeries were had by Jim, Julie, Adam, Carlos, Kevin, Trent, Breann, Mike & Sandy.
While recuperating we all had our share of fun, food & candy.

Grandma, Sandy, Kimber, Brayle & Michele
Hit a decade mark, which is pretty swell.

May you thank the Lord you're here today.
That we may enjoy 2010 come what may.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

The Christmas Spirit

Follow this link for a wonderful Christmas video.

The Christmas Spirit

I just finished putting up my tree, and ashamed to say I worried about the tree before the manger.

I'm far from perfect, and need any reminder I can get for the REASON for the SEASON!

May you find CHRIST this Christmas!

Cousins Sleepover

Some of the lovely, younger cousins had a sleepover a few weeks ago, at my house after Thanksgiving. Here they are, the morning after all smiles & such. It was lots of fun, I guess, I was asleep. We minded our P's & Q's & so did they, I think.

You're wondering why at Colleen's. It was a nice surprise to me too, but hey, when they asked, which doesn't often happen anymore, I said 'Yes'!

Poor Audrey just slept on the hard floor. When you're young, thin & beautiful, you don't notice how uncomfortable it is. We made a yummy breakfast & sent them on their way. Please come again. I'll include a floor mattress & a midnight snack.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Thanksgiving Eve


Twas the day before Thanksgiving & all thru the town,
Not a shopping cart was available from Logan to Wasatch Down.

The turkeys were thawing in refrigerators with care,
In hopes that the family was preparing to be there.

The pies were nestled all snug in their dishes.
With visions of full tummies, everyone's wishes.

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But an empty pie plate & hubby saying, 'Oh Dear!'

The contents were scattered all over the place,
Pudding & whipped cream encircling his face.

I spoke not a word, but went straight to my work,
Slapping his toosh & calling him a jerk!

Laying a fist aside of his nose,
He zipped out the door, smelling like a rose.

Here's a tasty (delicious is more like it) lime pie
to try now or for Christmas.

LIME PIE (photo from livelob.com)

Pie Crust: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons white sugar
2 egg yolks
Approximately 1 ½ sticks butter (5 oz)
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

In a large bowl, put flour, sugar, egg yolks and butter. Mix with your hands for about 10 minutes. If it becomes hard to mix because it’s too dry, add more butter. Cover the bottom of a pie pan completely and the side until ½ using your fingers. If the crust it’s so wet that you can fix it in the pan, add more flour. If your pie pan is too large, double the ingredients.

Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until pie crust is golden brown. Watch it while it is cooking. When the crust bottom starts to go up, make little holes on it with a fork. When its done, let it cool down and add filling inside.

Lime Filling: 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
Fresh juice and grated zest of 3 limes (If they are Persian limes use 1/2 Lime &1/2 Lemon juice to match the Key lime flavor)
1 can Nestle Table Cream (you can find it on Smith’s at Hispanic products section. If you don’t find it, it’s ok. Just use condensed milk and limes)
3 large egg yolks
In a glass or metal bowl, beat eggs until pale & fluffy (3 min) add condensed milk beat few minutes then lime juice & zest. Mix thoroughly. Add Table Cream and mix well again. Pour into baked pie crust & bake 10 minutes in 350' oven. Cool then refrigerate. When filling is slightly firm, cover with topping.

Pie Topping(Optional): 5 egg whites (or used for scrambled eggs later)
15 tablespoons white sugar
In a large bowl, beat egg whites on high speed until foamy. Add sugar gradually, and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Spread over pie. Swirl into points with a table knife or spatula for a decorative finish.
Recipe from my friend, Nadjla Borges of Brazil

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Baby Emma & the Blanket




Emma Delight Stevenson was born on October 26th. She shares her birthday with her big sister MaKayla who turned 15 that day. MaKayla, who lives in Wyoming, was not excited about sharing "her day." The boys are all very excited and are very "helpful."

The blanket shown here with Baby Emma in it is one Grandma Crane gave her. The soft pinks & beige with the lovable child & bunny really make it a tender scene. Grandma's friend Bernice makes them & she bought it a few years ago.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Our Gardner Village Photos

For Parker's 7 month pictures I took him to Gardner Village to take some pictures of him in his Halloween costume. I'm a novice photographer, and even I got some great pictures. It made a great background for a few of our pictures.





As a side note the cutest/most original costume I've seen this year was a family. The dad was H1, and Mom was N1, and the kids were all doctores. You better believe I stayed away from them, and that's not only because it was our bishops family.

Friday, October 30, 2009

A Village of Witches


Many of you have been to Gardiner Village to see the witches. They really are fun and creative. This year they had a Witches Ugly Contest. My beautiful, red haired friend, Shirlene, tried out, but wasn't creepy enough. Wouldn't it be cool to dress like one just once? Too many times & it would rub off on us.

Enjoy these pictures of Brayle & Melody we took a few years ago. Send us some of the ones you've taken. Be sure to have fun this season.

Monday, October 26, 2009

Second Place is Exciting News


He’s in second place! Doug Burton was just notified that he is in second position for his kidney/pancreas transplant. If for some reason the person in first place is too ill, doesn’t qualify or has a problem, that means Doug goes next. What exciting news.

Let’s all pray that he'll stay as healthy as possible in order to have his surgery & on the mend by the end of the year.

Many thanks to all those that contributed & supported the Fund & fundraiser this summer. Your donations made this all possible. Best wishes & our prayers to your family, Doug.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

What's For Sale @the Fall Festival?


Come one, Come all to the Festival this Fall!



You're guaranteed to have a ball.

Christmas gifts, decor and more.
The prices are right, I am sure.

The Crane Boutique has many a treasure.
Bringing your family lots of pleasure.

This Oct 23 & 24th in W Jordan are the days.
There's much to choose from, so no delays.

Go to Elaine's on bike, horse or car.

To find the very best items by far.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Haunted Graham Houses via Jory & Sarah

Jory & Sarah made these amazing Graham haunted houses. Creativity really makes them come alive. They are very detailed with their candy roofs & pathways, frosting words, curliques and black licorice lattice.




It's really quite doable & with graham crackers, candy corn, jelly beans and alot of patience, Sarah says. Melted sugar is the key ingredient for instant set up & holding the structures together. Just don't let it drop on your skin or instant blister. Jory has proof of that.


Try it one afternoon or for Family Home Evening project. Give it a go!! Share your talents, you don't know maybe Martha or her spies will see it & invite you on her show.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

A View of Two-Temples That Is


From the top of the hill at 100th South about 6th West in the Salt Lake Valley two temples can be seen. I walked the 1 1/2 mile to the brow of the hill before sun up this morning with my camera to take a shot. The slight breeze (or was it palsy) made it difficult to hold still for a clear picture.

The closer one is Jordan River Temple at 1300 west 102nd South and the largest bright light. Oquirrh Hills is in the distance at 112th South 4300 West. It's the brightest one, center left. Their lights shine through the darkness as if to say, 'Use us for a beacon in the storm' or 'Christ dwells here'. This brings great comfort to all who see them.

A few weeks ago while driving west late one night, the well lit Oquirrh Temple came into view suddenly. It looked like a giant priceless pearl sitting on the hill.

Temples are strategically placed to be seen by many. From the windowed waiting rooms of St. Marks, Alta & IHC Hospitals, the new temples are easy to spot. From the Jordan River Trail, Draper Temple pops in & out of view. Washington DC, Boise & San Diego Temples are angels in the night for freeway drivers.

These beautiful buildings bless the cities they are in. How wonderful to have temples in our midst.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Tips to Avoid the Gombu or Flu


Getting sick is the pits. Nausea, headaches, diarrhea, sore throat, and general malaise are definitely taboo in my book. No one wants to miss school(okay maybe), work (sometimes), parties (never) while commiserating in bed.

Have you noticed some of the same people get sick and others are never ill. Are they more susceptible and others immune to everything? Who knows or cares. Don't take the chance by being careless. This isn't paranoia, it's thinking proactively.

Here are a few ways to avoid those dreaded 'GERMS!'
1. Wash your hands often & scrub those fingertips.

2. Ask yourself, where have my hands been lately. What have I touched? Wash or sanitize them before you eat, if possible. Holding the hoagie/hamburger with it's paper wrapper or a napkin will keep the germs at bay.

3. Think twice before shaking hands, high five's & say, "I'm a flu free zone today!"

4. Punch buttons (elevator, time clock, phone, coded entry, etc) with your knuckles instead of fingertips. How often do you put knuckles in your mouth?

5. Entering buildings. Go for the automatic doors when possible. Allow others to open your doors. Otherwise open doors in unlikely places, such as the bottom of the vertical handle, with your jacket as a shield or on the left side instead. Think of where everyone entering has already touched. Push exit doors with you body or back of lower arms.

6. Disinfecting wipes. Use these often to wipe multi-use areas such as door knobs, mouthpieces, computer keys, fridge handles & TV remotes.

7. Keep fingers out of your mouth, nose & eyes especially if you ignore all of the above.

Invincible you are not!! We like to think we are, but eventually the bug will get us. Taking a few precautions all the time, keeps us safe. Make a habit of following these few suggestions. PARTY ON!!!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

We Are the Champions!!


Years ago a song called, "We are the Champions" was quite popular. My daughters would march around the neighborhood with their friends shouting to the top of their lungs, 'We are the champions'. They were happy to make this declaration & believed it, too. Since then they have become real champions by graduating from high school & college, becoming mothers & responsible adults. I'm so proud of them & know they will go far.

You are champions, too! Think about the things you've accomplished. Is it juggling school, work & a social life? Are you in the middle of motherhood, keeping a house & a church calling running smoothly? Do you help others by taking meals to them or just a friend in need? That is being a 100% winner.

We have lots of champions in our family. Here's just a few of them:
Sandra is a champion quilter, turning a bag of scraps into works of art then giving them as gifts to many of us.
Jim Sadler is a champion, for taking care of his father during his final years.
Jim Crane is a champion for getting a college degree, being green by riding his bike, paying off his mortgage & helping many of us with our taxes.
Elaine is a champion for doing genealogy, befriending the elderly, sharing her talents & heading up & acheiving the goal for Doug's transplant.
Allan is a champion for shaving his moustache to work in the baptistry.
Paula is a champion for getting a bachelors degree, being taxi to multiple groups in the ward & family & serving a mission.
Dave is a champion for running a successful business & sharing his nutritional knowledge.
Martell is a champion for taking friends, neighbors & family boating year in & out.
Julie is a champion for surviving several surgeries in that many years with a smile.
Grandma Crane is a champion for remembering our birthdays & being a friend to everyone.


Next time you even begin to think you are a failure. Stop it!! Remember, that God loves everyone & wants them to succeed. He won't stop, until they are all CHAMPIONS!!!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Made In Sixty Seconds

Do you make your bed? Try timing yourself to see how quickly it can be done. Set a goal to make it every day for three weeks. See how easy it is to accomplish in sixty seconds.

We have a rule that's worked for years. The last one out of the bed has to make it. It takes less than one minute to make a bed. When I presented the idea to my husband, he fell for it. High five!

Why do it? The bedroom always looks nice, a fresh spot to retire in each night and an easy habit to acquire. It’s funny how seldom I ever have to do this task. Not on purpose of course, because sleeping late would be dreamy.

It’s a simple thing, but so hard to get your kids to do. Rewards, job charts, reminders were never enough. Setting the example during their growing years didn’t work, might I add. Grandma Crane always made her bed. I credit her for teaching me.

If you're having trouble in your own home, try this. For FHE go to each person's bed & show them how fast it can be made. If the bedspread is difficult to work with, get one that's easier. Have them practise a few times, then compete to see if they can beat your best or each others. Challenge them to do it for a week. Compliment how nice their room looks with the bed made. Encourage the habit!!

Now if we could just get them to rinse and put the dishes in the dishwasher. Baby steps.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Eyes on the Size



The ad’s say it’s a ‘Bonus’ size.
Their subtle way to advertise.

I remember the recent downsize
From the previous, regular size.


It’s nice get the original size,
As a generous ‘Gift’ prize.

It’s really just a bunch of lies,
So in frustration I roll my eyes.

Please join with me, don't criticize
Soon they'll be as small as flies.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

09/09/09 @09:09 pm

When I'm awake in the early hours of the morning (3-5am), often after contemplating the things I did yesterday & what I will do today, worry & despair creep in. They like to tell me I've failed, I'm a loser & useless. It's easy to believe these negative words at a vulnerable time. I begin to cry as this pathway becomes real.

Soon I stop because the still small voice whispers, 'It's not true! You are special. I love you!' I recognize the voice of the Holy Ghost speaking for my Savior, Jesus Christ. Grabbing a hold of His words, I fight my way back. I imagine His arms around me, turn to follow Him. We go down the straight & narrow pathway of hope and love. I repeat over & over in my mind, that 'Jesus Loves Me!' Stubbornly my malefactor leaves. I don't look back.

I kneel to pray & if need be, read the scriptures. Darkness dissipates & peace comes.
'Jesus Loves Me! Jesus Loves You! Never forget it, NEVER! never!

09/09/09 @09:09 am


What a great day to be alive & busy in the world. May you remember the joys of the summer, the rains of spring, the loves in your life & the challenges you've overcome.

Think of your posterity, those who took the leap & joined the Church not only for them but for all of us. They didn't know us then but we remember what they did for us. Your children & grandchildren will thank you for carrying on the blessing of the gospel in their lives.

Remember Jesus loves you & will always be there. Just think of Him when you need help. Pray for His support and love. He will come with comfort, guidance & love.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Nebraska vs BYU Idaho


The Welch family has a strong presense in both states as college begins for four of them. It will certainly be quiet at home. What will Paula do?

This is Emily's first year at BYU Idaho. Excitement reigns for this Idaho bound gal. She was tempted to dump all her belongings into boxes & haul with her. Mom said, she had to decide what to take with, toss out & tuck away for later. Stephanie is delighted to have her own bedroom that stays clean.

Big bro Brian who's also attending BYU ID this semester, will greet little sis as she arrives showing her the ropes, best eateries & of course the DI full of many useful items. May you both have a great semester making friends & checking off classes toward your goals.

Nate begins the architechural program at UNL (Univ of NB @Lincoln). The wait to be accepted will be well worth it a few years from now. It's a long road ahead, as he & Maquel settle down in their cozy home determined to work hard.

Loren is at Metro Community College in Omaha taking classes & deciding his major. He will continue enjoying Mom's tasty meals, work @LePeep & tease Brandon & Stephanie every chance possible.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Anniversaries Abound in August


August has been the month for wedding bells in this family. Here are a few of those marking their anniversaries this month. Is it time for a second honeymoon or just a night on the town? I'll babysit.

Sandy & Jim 36 years
Jenny & Cory 10 years
Adam & Melanie 9 years
Alicia & Dave 9 years

Sunday, August 16, 2009

USU is Just For You

Since its founding in 1888, Utah State University has evolved from a small, agricultural college to one that is nationally and internationally recognized. Go Aggies!!

Allyson is headed to Utah State University today. Hugs, kisses and tears will be shed on the road to Logan, but this "Snow White" in her other life, is an 'I can do this!' kind of gal.


All year she's worked at the fabric store saving for housing, tuition, supplies & more. She'll take her graduation quilt showing those great band accomplishments over the years and a supply of food, household goods & more. Jessica, her friend & roommate will be making the jump to college life, too.

Meeting new friends from all over, Allyson will set up house with them. Her family at home will miss her tremendously & she them, as they keep in touch. Music, classes and work will fill her days, as she adjusts to the cool Cache Valley air and the school life.

Jim Crane, Allyson's dad, Alicia, Allan & many family members call USU their alma mater. She'll love being a part of one of the best universities in the nation.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Get Your Snow 'College' Cones Here

The Spirt of Snow is "The Warmest Snow on Earth."


Camille is headed for Snow College on Saturday with scholarship & all. This summer she's worked as the head life guard at the county pool, diligently saving her money.


Choosing orange as her signature color, sheets, hangers, dishes and more were checked off and added to the growing pile of necessities. Buying towels was never this fun before, who knew.

After loading the quad cab truck, the family will head south to Nephi. Then drive through the turkey farming country, passing Mt. Nebo, Mt Pleasant and Moroni on their way.

The sleepy, quaint town of Ephraim will be Camille's home this year, but don't be fooled about her getting bored. Anywhere you find 3000 college students, there's bound to be fun, friends & lots of fry sauce. Jennifer & Mauri loved their years at Snow.

Best wishes on your first year of school as a Badger. They have a first rate football team, too.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Burton Transplant Benefit Fund


Doug Burton, 35, a family member, husband, father of Anya and Isaac is in desperate need of a kidney and pancreas transplant. Struggling with juvenile diabetes since his youth, Doug is now on dialysis. Please join us in helping Doug restored back to health with this vital surgery.

Doug has worked for years in the company business, Burton Auto, helping his dad and granddad in their downtown landmark shop. A few years ago he was able to get a job, in the printing department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The health insurance from this blessed job, will pay most of the bills. Now unable to work, we ask that you please lend a hand in helping us raise his portion of the surgical costs.

Friday, August 14, 2009, come join the festivities at Pioneer Hall 1137 West 7800 South in West Jordan, Utah, with an all day boutique and silent auction
Prince & Princess Party 2-4pm for children, which includes meeting a favorite princess, fairy godmother, games & royal treats. $5
Western Party with the Deloy Allred Country Band playing is $20 per couple 7-9pm which includes, program, dancing & goodies.

Donations may also be made to any Mountain America Credit Union with same name.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Sharing Time, Treats & Tours


We took Grandma Crane to lunch at Archibald's Restaurant, with it's Birthday offer of buy one get one free meal, this week. They seated us in the grain bin area with Archibald Gardiner's eleven wives portraits, families and lives showcased in each booth. A lazy summer afternoon of small talk, photo taking and laughter was enjoyed. Death by Chocolate, a free yummy treat we shared, topped off the meal.

Afterward a visit to Katie & Troy's spacious new home, with a personal tour by baby Parker was given. His happy smile let us know his favorite room is the one his mom is in. Katie's is the laundry room with floor to ceiling cabinets. There's lots of room to grow in this lovely & well deserved home.

Since we celebrated Mom's 80th birthday last month, it was just a 'we didn't forget the real thing' outing. Join us next year for another episode of 'Birthdays with Grandma Crane'.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Octogenarian in the Family


Grandma Crane is officially 80 years old today. We celebrated last month with all the hoopla, but we need to call & wish her well today, also. Julie took Mom to the Tabernacle Choir broadcast yesterday held in the Conference Center, which was a first for both. It's the Choir's 80th birthday for broadcasting this week.

Another great event I remember that happened on Mom's birthday was the first space shuttle landing on the moon in 1968. It was a big event & an exciting one to share your birthday with. It's hard to believe Mom was half her current age.

Thanks Mom for being the great, friendly, helping adventurous person that you are. Have a wonderful day & eightieth year.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Blessings @the Mount Timpanogos Temple


Wednesday, June 24th, was the day Sarah Sargent Schmidt, took out her endowments in the Mt Timpanogos Temple. Jory's sisters, Jenn, Mauri & Alicia along with spouses, Allan & I went. Jennifer & family arrived from Washington a few hours before the session with many a family file name in hand to take with us.

Everyone got to the temple at a different time, with Alicia getting lost along the route. When the early ones walked into the chapel it was filling up fast & our husbands were stuck in initiatory with names from Jennifer to do. The spots we saved quickly filled in and Alicia was no where in sight. I was worried they wouldn't make the session thinking they would take the first in line until full.

The officiator walked five rows back from the front, stopped by Jennifer & Mike, and too my surprise, asked if they would like to be the witness couple. How exciting for Jory's oldest sister to do this, especially since they had never done it before. Alicia & Dave were the witness couple for Breann's endowment.

When it was time to go, all those who were with the four getting endowed were asked to stand in the congregation & allowed to join the group. Allan & Aaron had arrived & squished in with us. Alicia came from the overflow rooms that got the same announcement; but Dave was no where to be seen. He'd had trouble with his recommend. What does a bishop do when that happens to him? A temple worker found him in the dressing room as our group waited. We were so glad for this gift.

I complimented a sister temple worker I met later at the reception for treating us so kindly instead of first come first served only. It was a a time of joy as we worshipped together with the Lord in the temple.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Join Grandma Crane on Her 80th Birthday Bash


We're celebrating Grandma Crane's 80th birthday this weekend and want you all to join us. She's pretty excited about it after a photo session, buying a new dress, getting her picture in the paper, sending out 200 invites, preparing strawberry shortcake for all and much more.

It's a time to say 'Hello' to her friends, family & long lost school chums. She is looking forward to the party. Better than a professional, Dave W. will be here from Nebraska entertaining us with his beautiful music. Displays showing stages of her life, journals, service projects and more will be set up.

Many of you have sent in your own experiences and memories, that will be presented to her. Thanks for your help, support and attendance this Saturday from 4-6pm.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Congrats to the High School Grads


They made it!!! Emily the youngest of the group, beat by graduating on Saturday, May 30th. Camille & Alison graduate from high school today one a few hours ahead of the other.

Thirteen long years finished some friends & unknowns alike never to be seen again as you end the event, with a cap toss in the air. You did great, ladies! The future is even better now that you're officially an adult, making decisions that will affect the rest of your life. Only you can hold yourself back by not reaching for the most achievable opportunities. Don't say, "I can't do that!" Say, "I won't know, unless I try!"

Best wishes as you move on to college, careers and catching a man. Take your time please. No rush.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Graduates Galore


Collegiate Congrats are in order for three amazing family members that graduated from college this spring.
Jim Crane earned his Masters in Engineering and has recently moved to New Mexico, where he's stationed with the Air Force. Jim is married to Jenn, has five angelic daughters and is going it alone until the girls finish school in June then join him.

Troy Rueckert has a Bachelors in Engineering from the U of U. Troy's a new father & husband to Katie. See their blog ktrueckert.blogspot.com to view his senior project & new son. Troy has been interning this year at L3 Communications & now is a full-time employee.

Jory Schmidt with Bachelor's in Elementary Education at UVU is getting married in June to Sarah Sargent. He's been hired as a fourth grade teacher at Saratoga Springs Elementary. They will make their home in Orem. Go to shakydance.blogspot.com to see their engagement unfold.

You are great examples of 'sticking it out' as you've accomplished your goals. May the course be with you.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Mothers Day Wishes

The ‘What a Woman Wants’ show just packed up & left town recently. I didn’t go because I’m waiting for the ‘What a Mom Needs’ show. It’s probably not coming, because they don’t care about what we need. It’s impossible to fill that gap since it changes daily or even hourly.
Young Moms need: Sleep, peace & quiet, uninterrupted showers and an entourage of cooks, maids & baby sitters, all free of course. Kisses & hugs, too.
Toddler Moms need: Sleep, 5 minutes peace, helpful & obedient children, down time, things to stay clean, parks w/cool playgrounds, hair to stay combed and lots of Mac & cheese. Forgiving hugs.

Moms w/school age kids need: Tutors to keep up on homework requirements, referees to solve fights, caring teachers, free taxi service and kids that do their chores without being asked. Lots of Kisses.
Moms w/teens need: Cute clothes, beauty skills, patience when your things are used without permission, abilities to be pleasant 24/7 and able to keep your mouth shut at the right times. Unconditional hugs.
Mom w/grown kids need: Calls asking how to make their fave dish, thank you notes, good memories and offers to help with dinner when kids come home to eat. Hugs & thanks.

Grandmoms need: Grand children to visit, not to be taken for granted and lots of hugs & kisses.
The Mom in all of us needs to know: You’re a mentor for many as they look to you for guidance and an example whether you become a mother or not. Thanks for making a difference in a child’s life.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Serving in the Community


Twenty-one Crane family members participated in the Comcast Cares Volunteer Day April 25th. Meeting at an elementary school we had milk and yummy donuts, then donned our turqoise t-shirts ready to help out. We went to work sanding, painting, scrubbing desks, cleaning the grounds. It was fun for the children to use pint size rollers with colored paint on the walls, forming large alphabet letters we'd taped around. A task most parents don't allow a child to experience. They were in 'a kid can do this too' heaven.

Knowing we were sprucing up school rooms for hundreds of choice children, made it worth the effort. We visualized them walking the halls reciting the new ABC letters arrayed in their primary colors. As our jobs came to an end Kentucky Fried chicken with all the trimmings, awaited us. What a blessing it is to serve our fellow men.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

A Great Grandma Ann Eugenia Crane Birthday


Today, Wed. April 22, is Grandma Gene Crane's birthday. Many in our family share the same date. The things you should know about her are: her love of patchwork quilting, she wore matching aprons & dresses, size 5 shoe and hollering at Jim.

1. Quilts- She set a goal to make a Texas Star quilt for each grandchild when they graduated from high school. We could choose the main color to go on the eight point treasure. The fabric came from her sewing scraps. Each star was unique with a creamy muslim background that set them off. My red beauty is on the left in the photo.

2. Grandma always wore aprons with her calico dresses. Her best dresses had aprons with the same fabric that matched. With baking bread, feeding chickens and separating milk the apron kept her dresses from wearing out & clean.

3. She had the tiniest feet,5, but very wide, triple E. Her shoes were always the same black nurse style.

4. Hollering at Jim. One year when Jim got home from Scout camp, he brought a bunch of fireworks that he'd let off in the corral after milking the cows. The explosions made her so mad. She would stand with the screen door open and holler, "James Crane, you are going to burn down the barn and kill the cows. You stop that, this instant!!!" Due to the noise, he never heard a word she said & doesn't even remember to this day.

She was a hard working, story telling dear that did her best to keep everyone happy. Think of Great Grandma Gene Crane today as you recycle, reuse & redo.