the clumsiness of crushes

Seems to be the topic of conversation lately. So....
Let's talk about crushes. Past, present, and those to come. Crushes, the reason you get up and go to school, to work, and to a hang out that isn't your favorite.
There is something about talking to your crush, you immediately turn stupid. Words don't form, sentences don't make sense, and the ever famous plethora of stupid that spews from your mouth. **Warning**This is not the time for friends to come forth with stories of my past stupidness!
In all honesty, most crushes don't ever go anywhere beyond a clumsy conversation. Unfortunately, they will never know the real you. All they know is what they witness in all your clumsiness.
What to do in this situation? I welcome advice (incase I ever develop this type of crush).
The best I can say is, Try your hardest to be yourself. Try to stay out of situations that may require surgical removal of foot from mouth. And the best advice of all.....convince yourself that they are truly booger-eaters, in the disguise of a cute smile and that you should stay clear.