Crazy About Christmas Choirs

Who loves to hear the many Christmas choirs.
The beloved songs remind us of church spires.
Makes us feel cozy and warm like at campfires,
Pinching our hearts like a pair of pliars.

I had the privilege of attending some parties where two choirs performed.  Riverton Madrigals in their lovely lavender vests, ties and dresses were full of energy and smiles.  I loved the catchy songs and choreography.   The exact number of men and women.  These kids are destined to bring joy to the world with their talents for years to come. 

The Mountain Chorale had gorgeous selections and many distinct parts.  One of my favorites was Do You Hear What I Hear.   Their voices blended and floated me along as on a peaceful plane.  The clarinet, violin and recorder added a lovely sound.

Christmas Isn't About Black Friday

Who's sick of the ads about Black Friday? They're like the elections and get in the way. Every day they offer a 'Deal'. Go away! Leave us alone. Let us enjoy our play.

This bird seems to be saying, "Leave me alone! I'll worry about it later, not now!" Businesses greedy to get their share of the goods are bombarding us with Black Friday sales every day. It seems to be more important than the Christmas holiday. No one has even mentioned Christ or Christmas. It makes me want to boycott shopping at any of their stores. I'll do it my way. Fortunately, it was much easier and slower paced when we were young. I'm glad our parents didn't go all out to make Christmas more about the commercial and presents than about family and Christ. I feel so sorry for my children and grand children facing the barrage out there.

Spanking New Spatulas

I got some spatulas, red and spanking new! My old ones were crinkled and dying, too. I had to get red ones instead of blue. Not the right color, but work nice and will do.

I think of my mom when it comes to spatulas. We were always making cakes or goodies. Spatulas were a necessity for those jobs. Hers were always dingy white, just like mine in the photo. After this picture, I tossed them out. Yeah, they were waaaayyy overdue for getting a new set. At least that is what Allan said. I probably, like my mom, could have used them another month or so.

Zucchini Tales

Every year I'm not gonna let one get big. But, overnight they grow into a fat pig. Hiding under the massive leaves acting like a twig. Then I discover them, feeling like a prig.

No matter their size, I cant throw them away. Many of the large ones I have saved for winter. They last for several months. Use them in soups, salads, smoothies or baked goods. They may be used in many forms such as: shredded (my favorite), chunks, sliced and so on. If it's too late to salvage one for this year, do it next year.

Frank About Family Farms

I like to think our family farm is cool. And it was, but not like this one. I'm no fool. It takes lots of work to keep it up, more than a mule? Family spending time together is the best tool.

Oh, that our farm could have looked like this one from the internet. It is a mirage. Buildings weather, animal pens need mucking, weeds grow, implements wear out and if your are not vigilant, a farm can quickly look run down. Ours does. After Dad died it went from bad to worse. But we still own it and dream about the times we worked the land, fixed the breakdowns, milked the cows and now love every minute that we hated it.

Photo Finish Frenzy

Getting a family photo is very rare. To be dressed and ready with well combed hair. Mostly it's a battle to get everyone there. So these folks get a star. I'm glad to share.

Harder than pulling teeth is my experience to have a full family photo. Of course, Paula's gang has a few missing. Beautiful, nonetheless. The larger the family the harder it is to achieve the impossible. Why then did I see a fifty plus group setting, with every person color coded and smiling at a friend's house? Must have bribed them or threatened within an inch of their lives.

Maybe you are more successful than I am.

Quilting the Sacred Grove

Grandma Eugenia Crane was a quilting queen. She could sew up a patchwork quilt so mean. They came in colors of red, blue, and green. This of the Sacred Grove would show her love lean.

At the Springville quilt show, this quilt won honors of the Sacred Grove. The pieces of fabric painted and matched to look like trees in the forest. Grandma would love it. It was my favorite one too.

Kick Back Kids Remembering Past Summers

As kids we roamed the fields of our grandparents farms. But when it came to doing our own chores, we complained like a wining horse. We lived on a small farm of seven acres. Our family had chickens to feed, horses, pigs, cows to milk, fields of hay to bale. Mom always had a big sprawling daily producing garden. It was our job to pick the cukes, beans, squash, tomatoes and such. This time of year we had to help bottle the extra produce. Like any child we would rather be playing. I loved roller skating, riding my Schwinn bike and wasting time watching TV.

Dad made a big A-frame swing set that had tire seats. We loved to swing in. We also had a rusty metal kiddie push-peddle car to drive around. When I spied this car show model, it reminded me of those days when time stood still.

My grandkids have had the bright plastic red and yellow car I bought a few years ago at the DI. It is a kid magnet, as the little ones climb in, out and over it. Their time stands still now and ours races down the track like that old horse. We are still wining.

Classic Crane Car

I saw this water bag at a car show. It's to guarantee a gasket doesn't blow, Heated radiator or some such, You know. When I was a kid, we had one too, just so.

Ours wasn't as new as this one, because it was filled and reused over and over. It hung on the grill of the car catching all the bugs and dirt as we tripped from state to state. We were mostly sitting on the side of the road, broke down, waiting for a Good Samaritan to help us out. This week was my parents anniversary. This reminded me of them when I saw it and wanted to share. Thanks, Mom and Dad for taking us with you everywhere.

Flying on the Ferris Wheel

We rode the big Ferris Wheel at Scheels. We're not afraid of heights. It cost two bills. As a kid with my mom, it held many thrills. Check one more bucket list item it fills.

Every year when the family went to Lagoon, we would always ride the Ferris Wheel. That's because there were a dozen free rides on our company amusement park pass, and this was one of them. I often felt it was my mom's favorite ride. As she was always begging us to ride with her. When the giant Ferris Wheel was built, it was considered one of the scary rides. Ha, ha! Today it pales in comparison to the ones people attempt.

When Scheel's, the new sports store opened a few years ago, it had a giant Ferris Wheel in the center of the store, kids lined up to ride it. I secretly wanted to do it, too. I waited for a few years until the demand dropped. Last week with nothing to do, we visited there and took the leap onto the giant swing. It was super fun and felt like old times.

DUP Did It All - Historical Marker

I belong to the Daughters of Utah Pioneers. These, our ancestors have been here for years. From 1847 to 1867 they came here in tears. Let's give these great DUP women ten cheers!!!

On a trip to East Carbon, Utah, I saw this beehive looking historical marker. We stopped to take a close-up look. How fun to discover it was a Daughters of Utah Pioneers monument. There are hundreds through out the Inter-state Region, built years ago by enterprising women to honor their ancestors. These must have taken years to design, build and pay for.

As a girl when we went on road trips, my parents always wanted to stop and see the historical markers. We often grew tired of it, but know the work these recent ancestors did was remarkable. Now seldom does anyone even notice them. In fact, many have been defaced and damaged. Thanks to these great folks for keeping the memory of our forefathers alive.

Gentleman Biker

He's a gentleman biker off to work. Leaving the car for his wife, a nice perk! Whether he's a chemist, accountant or clerk, He'll take the bike, so she doesn't go berserk!!

My brother, Jim, rode his bike to work for years to accommodate his wife. Sometimes only one car is the option, but they make ways to get around that. One time while I was driving in a nearby city, I saw a guy on a bike. It was my awesome brother! A fellow here a work rides to the Trax or the Front Runner, then from the closest station to work. He keeps his bike in the office right next to the plant and name plate. Way to go men!! You **rock!!

Dad's Birthday 91

Dad would be 91 today. He left us years ago in such array! Couldn't wait another day We love him still, come what may.

Yep, every year in August I think of my dad, on or around his birthday. He was only sixty three. It had just been six months since he retired. Mom didn't have much time to enjoy him at home. He was always working on the farm or at Kennecott. She waited forty one years after they were married to be with him, and twenty three more alone.

They are together now and don't have to be apart any more. Love you Dad & Mom.

Pretending to Be Pioneers in the Days of '47 Parade

We were in the Days of '47 parade, Representing our ancestors and how they made, The desert blossom as a rose. They weren't afraid, To leave their homelands, come to Utah and then they stayed!

I'm a direct decendant of the pioneers that came here. Some were in the first company on July 23rd, others came in 1857 and the last relations arrived from England in 1911. I love, honor and appreciate all of them. Most were in wagon trains or rode on trains. I don't know if any pushed handcarts. Doesn't matter, we are proud them all. What a delight to sit down with them and hear their amazing stories of courage, sickness, heart ache and rejoicing.

We walked two miles waving and representing the ten hand cart companies. Ours was the Ellsworth cart. The Sons of Utah Pioneers have done this for many years. With Allan being the president of our Jordan Temple chapter, we wanted to do it. How often do you get a chance to be in one of the largest parades in the nation? A bucket list check is completed. There was plenty of shade and we were at the very front of the parade.

We were tired after it was over and my arms hurt during the night from all that waving. But was a blast to see thousands of people honoring the holiday by coming to see the parade. Thanks to You beloved ancestors for making the Desert Blossom as the Rose!

Christmas Choir Catchy & Creative

Who loves to hear the many Christmas choirs. The beloved songs remind us of church spires. Makes us feel cozy and warm like at campfires, Pinching our hearts like a pair of pliars.

I had the privilege of attending some parties where two choirs performed. Riverton Madrigals in their lovely lavender vests, ties and dresses were full of energy and smiles. I loved the catchy songs and choreography. The exact number of men and women. These kids are destined to bring joy to the world with their talents for years to come.

The Mountain Chorale had gorgeous selections and many distinct parts. One of my favorites was Do You Hear What I Hear. Their voices blended and floated me along as on a peaceful plane. The clarinet, violin and recorder added a lovely sound.

See Schmidt Happenings

Oops! I made a mistake and posted the birthday wishes for Grandma Great Crane on the Schmidt Happenings blog at schmidthappenings.blogspot.com. Please go there to read it and see our newest great grand children added this year.

Celebrating 1776 and Freedom

Thanks to those men in 1776, This U.S. of A is the greatest mix, Of Americans who are free to fix, Any ole' dish, spot, thing or choose to nix.

Last night we went to the '1776' musical play at Murray Outdoor Amphitheater. It was wonderful to see these great men doing there best to create a free country. As the play unfolded, with song, dance and drama, it reminded me of the book I read '1776' a few years ago. To read or understand about the miracles that took place and realize that we came out victorious. The Lord's guiding hand was there helping us succeed against all odds. Without Him we would still be under the rule of Great Britain. Many Americans believe our own abilities overcame the enemy, but this nation is not great without the Almighty God who created us and we worship.

It makes your heart swell with pride, that our ancestors came over to enjoy the freedoms we take for granted. Every Independence Day is a gift to remember and be grateful for.

Knitting Pretty

You won’t find these beauties in a crochet kit. And you may not be ready or willing to knit. This creation pictured here, bit by bit. Seeing them, my grandma would have had a fit.

coming from a family that is big into knitting, crocheting, quilting and embroidery, I laughed when I saw these beauties. I thought you would enjoy them to. Talk about a big project. I don't think I would have attempted them.

Time For a Tootsie Roll Treat

Does one ever tire of Tootsie Rolls. I would vote for them if there were polls, They’ve been around as long as soup bowls. ‘Cause it fills our chocolate need & has no holes.

Even though Tootsie Rolls have been around forever, I still love them. They always remind me of simpler times and places. You wont find me passing up one, but I especially love the bigger ones that take several bites and really fit the bill.

The Grass Grows Green

Hills and mountains in their velvet green best. But won’t stay long for the sun is the test. They’ll change into a peanut brittle vest. Adorned with a fancy eye catching crest.

It is a joy to see the hills and mountains so green and soft looking. With all the rain we have had this spring, it's a great bonus. All too soon the heat will dry out those verdant fields and turn them a fuzzy, peanut brittle tan. The Lord's footstool is beautiful no matter the color, but a brilliant green is so divine.

It reminds me of our own farm as the seeds began to grow turning it into a living thing. I didn't appreciate it back then, but how I long for it now. Thanks Dad for being a farmer.

A Neat Nut is a Happy Nut

Someone has to clean this mess up, but not me! I can't freely toss them down with much glee. So here's a shape created. And it's free. I ate some nuts. It's time to eat you see.

Most moms learn early to never toss anything on the floor. We just have to pick it up or sweep it up later. Therefore, I had a hard time tossing the nuts on the floor at this restaurant. Someone has to clean them up, even if it isn't me. At first I put them in a pile, then changed it to an arrow for creativity. Another woman, probably a mother, set her nuts beside mine. It used to be fun, but now it's just not possible to toss as freely as a child. Thanks for teaching me to do the right thing, except when I am at this restaurant.

Great Grandma Crane's Birthday

Last Friday, April 22nd was not only my daughter's birthday, but also my Grandmother, Eugenia Ann Crane's birthday. She never drove and was dependent on Heber, her husband taking her shopping or someone else. I don't recall ever driving her anywhere, but I do remember the weekly or monthly shopping trips to Midvale for groceries.

She would always buy a few bags of ginger snap cookies. I don't know if they were her favorite, the cheapest cookie or our favorite. When I saw a bag on the work room table last month, I had a few and took a photo of the bag. They remind me of Grandma's cookie jar that always had a homemade one or something to appease the little kiddies. Thank you Grandma, for always having some when I wanted them.

Enjoy the Jesus Christ at Easter

I feel my Savior's love In all the world around me. His Spirit warms my soul Through ev'rything I see. He knows I will follow him, Give all my life to him. I feel my Savior's love, The love he freely gives me.**** Author Unknown -----Because of Jesus' love, we will live again. ---He’s always our Savior through thick and thin. ---He’ll forgive no matter what mess we get ourselves in. ---But we must do our part. Through His atoning win, win.

*****2. I feel my Savior's love; It's gentleness enfolds me, And when I kneel to pray, My heart is filled with peace. *****3. I feel my Savior's love And know that he will bless me. I offer him my heart; My shepherd he will be.

One of our high school classmates was serving an inner-city mission, when he became sick. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a year ago. He feels the Savior's arms around him hour by hour. Some friends stopped by to see him. What would we do without the knowledge of Jesus Christ and his mission for us? *******4. I'll share my Savior's love By serving others freely. In serving I am blessed. In giving I receive. Chorus: He knows I will follow him, Give all my life to him. I feel my Savior's love, The love he freely gives me.

Enjoy, relish in and celebrate His atonement, death and resurrection this week during the Easter holiday. Always remember Him, Lord of Lord, and King of Kings, Jesus Christ, our Savior. Thank you.

She's a Mom Now

Many have heard that Allyson, one of our youngest nieces in the Crane family is finally a mom. Yes, to a nine pound plus baby boy, named Russell. Grandma & Pa Crane went down to see their newest little fella. He is number twenty-eight. To see some photos go to her Facebook page. Mom, dad and Russell are there along with big smiles and happy hearts. Keep up the great work, Allyson.

Anniversary and Ice Cream

This weekend is the 27th anniversary of my dad's death at age sixty-three of a massive heart attack. One never forgets the events that lead up to and took place afterward. I still miss my father, but imagine how nice it must be to be free of health and other problems. Many of his friends are dying, since they would be in their nineties now.

It's more enjoyable to think about the good times we had. Most Sundays in the summer, Mom would mix up the ingredients for home made vanilla ice cream. Each of us took our equal time turning the crank, round and round. It seemed endless, but eventually (Jim, was the best at sticking with the job. Probably because he anticipated it the most.) the mixture crystalized into a yummy cold treat.

Dad would scoop big dollops of ice cream into bowls and pass them around the table. All was quiet as we slurped away at the tasty treat. We were in heaven when electric ice cream freezers were invented. Still, nothing compares to an afternoon on the back porch turning that old crank.

Baby & Blessed Momma

Melody is a mother. Little Junie Lane was born January 20th at 5 lbs+. Both mom and baby are doing great even though she was a few weeks early. We paid them a visit and held the precious angel in our arms. How sweet and perfect she is. It always amazes me how our bodies can create such perfect beings. Thanks to the great plan of the Lord for making it happen so.

Melody, my brother's daughter, knows her dad would be proud and the best grandfather. Perhaps he has known and been with Junie in heaven. He passed away sixteen years ago this month, but loved his children big. Choosing a life that compromised his health sealed his fate.