Memories of Missing Mom

It's been one month since Mom passed. Her daffodils bloomed shortly after and everyday since. The hyacinths are standing guard along her sidewalk as if to say, "We made it back home. Have you gone away? We'll watch and wait."

I miss her cheery voice saying, 'How are you?' whenever she answered my phone calls. She let me talk about anything I wanted, after her update of who had recently passed away. The little things I took for granted, come back like the sweet babbling notes of a bird's song. Holding them close and gently in my mind, will help.

Thanks Mom for always being there. Forgive me for those times I was onery and such.

Loved Ones Remember, Mom

Many hugs, memories and smiles were exchanged as the Crane and Park families joined together to remember Mom. Sisters, children, cousins and more talked of this great matriarch and her friendly, but unique ways of showing love and concern.

Most were surprised as were we, that she went home to her Heavenly Father. She never wanted to linger, so suffer she didn't as a hemorrhaging brain anuerism took her life in March.

Little signs previous to this helped us prepare for the future. We all spent time together at a reunion dinner marking the twenty-second year, since Dad's death in February. Each talked about how we could help her. Sad we are events happened so quickly, with little more than to be at her bedside for a few hours.

We must go on remembering how much she loved us, knowing she is happy to be with Dad now preparing for the eternities.

Recipient of the Silver Beaver Award

A few weeks ago Jim Crane received one of the highest Boy Scouting awards given, the Silver Beaver Award. We attended the special awards ceremony at the Bountiful Regional Center. Bob Evans of Channel 13 News, was the Master of Ceremonies. About 60 received the award including Gail Miller, wife of the late Larry H. Miller, the Most Reverend John C. Wester of the Salt Lake Diocese, and many hard working, dedicated men and women to the scouting program.

Jim has served on both Cub and Boy Scout committees as well as working to help teach hundreds of young men the benefits of scouting. He was nominated by, Elaine, his wife. When others heard he was getting the award, they said that he definitely deserved it.

Congratulations, to you Jim for being such a great example and serving the youth of today.

Feeding Our Feathered Friends

For pennies it is easy to 'feed the birds' just like they did in Mary Poppins. Make a simple flat bird feeder or buy one of the many specialty kinds for the particular size of birds you want around. Bird seed is inexpensive and easy to store. Be certain it is an area free from predators.

The birds will find the food and love you for your generosity. Sometimes feeders need to be replenished daily during the winter months when food is scarce. Lots of pleasure is gained from watching the young fledglings new from the nest, hop around the feeding area in their innocense. Grab binoculars now, while the trees are bare and enjoy bird watching from the kitchen window. This is the best time of the year, as the birds return before leafing begins.

A Bit Like Bethlehem

For a change of pace we decided to journey to Bethlehem for the Crane Christmas party. Leaving the candy, Santa & games for another year, the children enjoyed making Driedels, Stars of David, scrolls and tried wood carving. We ate flat bread, olives and citrus peel.

It was definitely a different atmosphere. Everyone wore robs, head scarfs and more. Many pictures were taken enjoy seeing a few of them.

Officially Old Man Winter

Old Man Winter officially arrived December 21st or 22nd. I never can tell the correct date, but know it is here. The weather has proven to be true to its calling, with storm after storm hitting the Wasatch Front. A nearby city had spent 75% of its snow removal budget before this cold season even took over.

Some people hate winter, complaining non-stop about the cold, wet and dreariness. Why not take advantage of all the fun activities such as ice skating, snow shoeing or skiing. Instead of looking at the plainness of each day, focus on the beauty of the barren trees, white-washed mountains or the frozen roadside ice shapes left over from snow removal taking on interesting designs.

Take a walk breathe in the cold fresh air while bundled up in many layers of jackets, gloves and pants. The quiet solitude reminds one of peace. Make note of what is still green, fowl wintering over and watch for signs of interest.

My beef is seeing people coatless racing from heated car into school or a store, headless of the dangers if they were stranded. I say, always carry a blanket, snacks, gloves and water in your car in case of emergencies. Keep a small shovel, flares and ice scrapers on hand. We will make it through another season, in about ninety days give or take a few.

Officially Old Man Winter