Whoa... it's been a while

Sorry it's been so long! This one comes from Raven-

"Rachel B. has got to be one of the loveliest people I know. Always a friend, she has served me in countless ways. One in particular that comes to mind was her willingness to tend my toddler for 3 hours one day so that I could chaperone my daughter's school field trip. I asked her last-minute, she has three children of her own (one still a baby), and 3 hours is a long time. But she was quick to say "yes" and seemed eager to help. What a relief that was for me! Especially since I dread trying to find babysitters and this was so last minute. This willingness to help goes beyond my own children, though. Can I tell you how many times Rachel has substituted in our ward's primary? No I can't--there are just too many times. Whether it's as a pianist, a chorister, or a teacher, she is one of those women that we know we can count on and turn to in a pinch. It's people like Rachel that make me so grateful to live in this neighborhood! Thank you, Rachel!"

I agree! Rachel B. is one of my favorite people. She single-handedly made sure I got the one thing I wanted for my new baby- a car seat cover. That sounds dumb, but seriously, it was so nice of her to a)remember that I was longing for one, and b)make sure I got the exact one I wanted. She is so considerate of the people around her, and she will do anything to help. We love you!

Email your good gossip to cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

The Boy Whisperer

Sorry guys, I NEED to catch up on my good gossip! I'm sure there's plenty out there- email me if you know some good stories!

This one comes from me...

The other day, a bunch of us moms were out at the playground with all our kids, and little Jesse got stung by a bee. Poor little guy. You could tell it was hurting him, and he was screaming, but from the looks of it, he didn't want to go home to get it fixed- he was having too much fun at the park. Rachel was doing her best to calm him, but when he wouldn't go home, she was kind of stuck.

Enter Michelle W. She runs home, comes back out with a little first aid kit (something that I don't have- shame on me), and starts talking to Jesse. She says it's her 'special box' that helps little boys when they're hurt. Man, that kid quieted right down. He started listening to everything she said, sat down while they put some sting stuff on him and whatnot, and was just peachy after just a few minutes.

Have you ever seen a better boy-mom? She's stinking awesome. She came to the rescue yet again. She does that a lot...

Thanks, Michelle! You are not allowed to move. Ever. :)

I'm the worst person on the planet...

This story comes from me, but it needs a little back story.

Last Sunday, Liza asked me how I was doing, I said good, etc, and she said that if I ever needed a place for Lexi and Lanie to go, to just call her. Sometimes it's easier when your kid has a friend over to play with, you know? So I said I would, and we left.

Wednesday, I was slightly stressed because I had in-laws coming into town and I needed to get the house ready. I remembered that Liza offered for my kids to play at her house, and I promptly gave her a call. She said that she was pretty busy that day, they were about to go for pictures, and that maybe tommorow would work for a playdate.

The next day, upon reading her facebook status, I figure out that her brother got married on Wednesday! That's the pictures they were talking about! I probably called her on the worst possible day, and instead of just telling me 'no way', she actually offered the very next day for a playdate. How stinking nice is that?!

Wait, there's more. The next morning she calls and says that she forgot that her family was doing a birthday party for her grandpa, so they wouldn't be home for a playdate. BUT, she said that she'd be more than happy to take Lexi with her to play with Nan at her mom's house. Are you kidding me? She has all this family stuff going on, but she's still more than willing to take Lexi with her? SO NICE.

And do you know what I did? I took her up on her offer. And Lexi had a blast at Liza's mom's house. And I got stuff done around the house. I'm terrible, and I should have said no. But I didn't, and I'm kinda glad I didn't. Lexi had so much fun, and I learned how great of a person Liza is. I mean, I already knew, but holy moley. She's so genuinely nice and caring about everyone she's meets. Liza always makes primary as smooth as possible on Sunday, and I think that's because she sincerely cares about every single child in that room. That's charity at work, people.

Liza, you're seriously the best. Thank you so much!

So many nice people to choose from...

I have been out of town, and I haven't gotten any good gossip from people lately. I'm sure that doesn't mean that service isn't being rendered, it just means I haven't heard it. :)

Anyway, this comes from me, about Rachel B.

The backdrop is June, and Rachel has JUST had her new baby girl. Like, a week ago. Maybe a week and a half. We had recently been to Rachel's house, pre-new-baby, for some ice cream cake and chatting. Brandon LOVED the cake, and father's day was coming up, and I wanted to make the dessert for him.

So, like any other person with no shame, I called her up and left a voicemail asking for the recipe. Days after having a baby. Without offering or giving any service myself. For some reason, I really regret that. I should've brought FOOD or something.

Anywho, she calls back, while she was running errands, and recites the recipe from memory for me, so that I could make a father's day dessert for Brandon. I just thought that was so nice of her. I'm sure the last thing on her mind was helping me. But she did it all the same.

Part 2- kind of... Rachel had made cookies for ward choir one Sunday, and after choir realized that she didn't hand them out. Did I mention that this was also post-baby? Do we all know how scatterbrained we are after having a new baby? Anyway, she went to everyone's house that came to choir that day and dropped off a cookie for each of us. Did I also mention that I live on the 3rd floor? And these cookies were good. You know, those homemade oreo ones? SOOOO good. I thought that was going above and beyond her calling and showing gratitude for us who came to choir.

Long story short? Go to ward choir. You'll get some awesome treats. :)

We love you, Rachel! Don't move, okay? :) And I still owe you food of some kind...

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Another goodie

This comes from my friend Janae, who always knows what to say...

"Today I am not writing about one person but to all the great people in
this community. There are just so many people that give of their time
and talents to make this a better community, a better city, and a
better ward.

I see the way people forgive and forget, the way they accept, the way
people are trying to be good. It is inspiring and humbling to live in
such a neighborhood.

Though we all have our faults I am grateful for neighbors who can look
past them, for those who try to lift. There is so much good here that
it gets me choked up just thinking about it.

Thank you Gateway and Pleasant Springs neighbors for being you."

Janae, you are also a great example of this! We truly live in a great neighborhood.

P.S. Be sure to say hi to your elderly neighbors! You never know when they are feeling blue or left out.

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

ANOTHER service-oriented person

This again comes from me-

Carrie B. is probably one of the nicest people on the planet. I know I say that a lot, but seriously. Seriously! She never has a mean word to say about anyone.

She did SO much to make the pioneer primary activity so fun for the kids. Did you guys see all those wagons? Carrie did them. My girls LOVED them! I'm sure she did so much more than that, but I don't know the details. Those wagons were so fun for the kids to play in, and to make a 'trek' outside. So cute!

And, to go along with yesterday's post, she ALSO volunteered to take care of kids in the 'ward choir nursery' along with Sheryl. So, she spent two hours working with kids in primary, and then she stayed an additional hour to help take care of kids so the parents could sing.

Carrie is so helpful, kind, and LOVING. She's always willing to lend a helping hand. Did I mention that she's such a good mommy? She's a great example to me on how to be loving to my kids. We love you!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

The definition of nice

This comes from me, because I thought, this girl is so thoughtful!

Sheryl O. is always taking care of babies. Does she have any of her own? No. She just always has one in her hands to help take the load off of his/her mother.

On Sunday I saw her taking care of little McKay, Erica's little boy, during church. Erica was subbing in primary, and I'm assuming Sheryl volunteered to take her baby so she wouldn't have to worry about him in primary. She was holding him all through relief society, and she even changed his diaper. Talk about service! haha. :)

THEN, she helped take care of kids in the 'ward choir nursery.' In case you didn't know, in order for mommies and daddies to participate in ward choir, there is now a ward choir nursery for the kiddies to play in during rehearsal. Sheryl volunteered to stay AFTER church for an hour to take care of all the kids so their parents could sing.

Again, she is the nicest person on the planet. How many of you agree with me? And she's smart and funny, and so fun to talk to.

We love you, Sheryl!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Have we not done this girl yet?!

This comes from my friend Michelle, again. She's really good at recognizing service...

"Wendy G is amazing! I have loads of scrapbook stuff that she has given me, which I have used on so many occasions. Most recently for Coby's birthday party.
She lent me her serger to turn the boys' pants into shorts for summer. They look fantastic and I saved SO much time.
Despite having a whole bagful of clothes, I had very little that DJ could wear. Never fear-the clothing fairy appeared in the form of Wendy. Now, DJ looks so cool in his Ironman shirt and I chuckle when he is wearing his HULK shirt and gets angry.
And she lets me borrow books from their library. What a wonderful friend!"

Gosh, I couldn't agree more. Despite being superwoman, Wendy is so thoughtful, kind, and always willing to help. If you even mention the need for help, she will go above and beyond the call of duty. Last year, I wanted to make a scrapbook of pictures for someone who was moving out of the ward. I asked Wendy to make the scrapbook, since I am terrible at things like that. I told her I would pay for supplies. When she was finished, not only did it look INCREDIBLE, but she wouldn't take any money. She said she's trying to get rid of her supplies anyway. How nice is that?

AND, when I had to make a Christmas scrapbook page for my family, and mine would NOT print off in time, Wendy saved the day and made gorgeous scrapbook pages that I passed of as my own to my family. :) She is AMAZING. Did you know that she's also colorblind??? Have you seen her scrapbooking? Just amazing.

We love you Wendy!! Never move, okay? :)

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

You gotta love surrogate grandpa's...

This is my last one from Michelle, and again, the text is really small. Oh well...

"I love swimming. Kai, Coby, and Liam love swimming!! DJ loves the bathtub and tries to crawl in every chance he gets, but he does NOT like the pool, unless he is clinging to me. No fun! So I am grateful that the boys are still able to get their swimming fix because "Grandpa Randy" K. is willing to watch them while Randy swims. Thank you!"

That is so nice, Randy! My goodness, that is such a big help. I know that when I need to go quick and even just be gone for a few minutes, it's so nice for someone else to watch my kiddos at the pool so I don't have to take the kids with me. That is so nice to let the kids play at the pool and watch them.

Thank you Randy, for just being who you are. You are such and kind and generous person. We love you!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Teaching Awesomeness, there, I said it.

This post might be a little selfish of me, because I already did a post about this person. But frankly there's only so many people in the community, and I'm gonna do it anyway...

Brittany S. has been teaching the Babes in Arms class at church for a while now, and I love her lessons. Here's the reason why I love them- 1) you can tell she loves the gospel. It just emanates from her. You can feel her testimony. And 2) You can also tell that she has prepared so much for her lessons. The spirit is so strong in her class, and it's because she has put so much thought and prayer into each and every lesson she teaches. I always walk away from her class uplifted and enriched.

Brittany got a new calling, and she gave her last lesson on Sunday. Now the Young Women get to bask in her teaching awesomeness.

We will miss you, Brittany! But we know you will do great in your new calling.

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Has gardening taken over your life, like me?

This comes from Michelle. And I don't know why the font is so small. I can't fix it...

"I know nothing about gardening. So I appreciate any help and tips I can get.

• build a mound up and around my potatoes. ~I had no idea I was supposed to do that, thanks Liza B.
• an action hoe is the best way to weed your plot ~ I was able to weed 8 lines with the action hoe in the time it took me to do two lines with an ordinary hoe. Thanks Rachel C for letting me borrow it.
• if you have an end cap on the end of your line you can take it off to use the line as a hose to water your plot instead of hauling watering cans ~ Mandi T, my arms thank you!
• you can fix a gushing hole in your line with a candy wrapper and twine. ~ Thanks Rob for stopping the impending flood. "

Do you know how helpful people are at the garden? Seriously. That place is like a little service heaven. Ryan J. helped us weed the other night, and believe me, it was a big job. It's kind of the new hang out place. Thank you so much to all who help out so much over there!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Adopted Grandparents

This one comes from me...

So, I'm trying not to use last names on this here blog, but sometimes it's impossible. I think just this once I will...

The Pitzaks (sp?) are just about the nicest couple you could ever meet. They are so kind of good with kids. They are an older couple with grandkids of their own, and they know just how to have fun with the little kiddos.

This past Saturday we were at the pool, and the Pitzaks were there as well. The girls had a blast in the pool with them! Randy was throwing Lexi in the air, and Lanie was swimming to him. It was like having grandparents for our kids to play with. They were so nice to be willing to play all afternoon with them. And that meant that I could relax a little and watch them swim in the pool.

Thank you, Bro. and Sis. Pitzak! We are so lucky to have you with us!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com.

This makes me feel so good inside...

This comes from my friend Michelle...

"This is a two fold shout out.

Inspired by this blog, Raven H. offered no-strings-attached babysitting for one of her neighbors. The first to comment on her facebook status got the babysitting. Brekke F. commented first for ME. Isn't that awesome!? How wonderful to be thinking of me and giving something that she could use for herself.

Raven watched my oldest three while I shopped with just DJ. I never thought that as an adult, I would look forward to going to the grocery store. It was heaven!! I was able to get my shopping done (in half the time), unload it all, and have a snack before retrieving my kiddos, who had a blast playing Mythbusters. Thank you Brekke & Raven!"

Aw, what nice neighbors! And I'm so glad this blog had a bit of an impact. Need we mention that Raven has 3 kiddos of her own, including a newborn? That was so nice of her! And Brekke, you are so kind and considerate to take the offer for someone else instead of using it yourself. Wow, I'm seriously impressed!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Complex of FIRE

This one comes from me...

A lot of us participated in what we called a 'complex of fire' on Friday night. A bunch of us from the complex got together to watch fireworks. First of all, it was AWESOME! The best fireworks show that you would ever expect in our little complex. But I was also thinking about the silent helpers throughout the night.

1. Rachel B. brought out a tablecloth to put all the little goodies on. I thought that was so helpful! I think she also brought out a pitcher of water...

2. Dave B., Dan C., Nick B., and JT W. (is that all of them?) helped with the fireworks all night to make sure they were lit, and that we were all entertained.

3. All of the above mentioned's wives LET their husbands do that so we could enjoy the fireworks. That means that they were alone taking care of their kiddos so their hubbies could light our fireworks for us.

4. And just to add a little, Dan C. cleaned up the firework debris afterward. That was a pretty big task and it was so helpful!

Thank you to everyone that made the complex of fire such a blast this year!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Answer to prayer

Sorry guys, I guess life just happened this week, and I've been away from the blogging scene. Here's our latest gossip from Michelle. She actually said she felt silly giving me this gossip because it's small, but it was so helpful to her. Are you kidding?! Small acts of service are the best!

"DJ had a melt down during Relief Society. Usually, when he gets this way (every Sunday) one of us will take him home for his nap, but Jake is out of town and I didn't want to pull Coby or Liam from their class. I was at a bit of a loss, just wait it out or take him home then come back?

Fortunately, Renae V. came out and asked "Is there anything I can do to help?" Yes!! She brought my boys home from church, so I could take DJ home to nap. He fell asleep almost immediately. What a relief! Her help was exactly what I needed at that moment. "

I'm sure Renae felt some kind of prompting to ask Michelle if she needed help. And it's exactly what she needed. We are so glad that her family is still in the ward! And in the community. Thank you, Renae!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

"Magnifying" her calling would be an understatement

I've run out of good gossip from you guys, so this one comes from me.

Our community is good at having babies. We have a TON of babies in this ward. Do you know who is a sort of unsung hero in our community when it comes to taking care of these families? Marta. She has never shirked her responsibility of compassionate service leader in our ward. She always makes the phone calls that gets people dinners. Not just for having babies either. She is awesome at making sure people are taken care of when they need it most.

The thing is, you can't be that good at your calling if you don't genuinely care for and love the people you are serving. Marta is one of the nicest, most compassionate people I know.

We love you Marta!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

And mom of the year goes to...

This is kind of a companion post to yesterday's from Jill...

"Candace H. is a great example to me. I've always watched her from a distance and been impressed. I now consider her one of my great friends as well. What amazes me is her calmness. I watch her on Sunday and during the week with her boys. Having a husband working, in school, and in a high demand calling she is forced to fly solo many times. Yet you never hear her complain. Never see her frazzled or yelling or pulling her hair out. If only I could be more like Candace! She's always has a welcoming smile for everyone that goes by. She continues to amaze me in her willingness to serve. She's been a great friend to me.

Both girls are amazing. Despite their 3 children (which the thought of just terrifies me!) They are always willing to help those around them. They always have more kids with them than just their own. And they do it with a smile. I love these two girls and am so grateful to know them and have them living in our community. They are always willing to help out. If ever I am stressed or need a break I know I can count on them. I'm not the best at taking them up on their offers, but it is nice to know that they are there when I need them. They really are true friends. Thanks girls, I love you both!"

Candace, you amaze me on so many levels. Seriously. You are the best, most patient mom ever. If only we could be more like you... We love you!

The massage queen!

This comes from my friend Jill, so awesome...

"Erica G. is one of my closest friends. She and I have been friends since we first moved in, 3+ years ago, and were paired up as visiting teaching companions. She is one of those friends you know you can always count on. She will drop anything to help anyone in need. I love that whenever I just need to get out and spend time with a girl friend I can count on her. I can't tell you how many times I've called her last minute and said "lets go." She's sweet, funny, and always up for a good time. She's one of the best listeners ever. And always understanding, no matter how irrational my stories may get! She's a great person and a great friend!"

Erica is one of those silent service types. She is always flying under the radar, doing the nicest things for people in need. She's so nice and friendly to all who meet her. AND she gives awesome massages. We love you, Erica!

Do you know a nicer couple? Seriously?!

The last one from Janae, though I had a lot of fun reading all these...

"Blake and Mandi Taylor are my next door neighbors. One of the best things I love to do with them is sit on the porch and talk. It is a blessing to go sit outside and just be in good company. What a release. Blake takes my trash out and thanks to Mandi everyone has plots at the garden. That has been a lot of work and she has done an excellent job."

Mandi is one of my favorite people on the planet. She is so NICE. Just genuinely nice and kind-hearted. I just came up with the perfect phrase- without guile. That's her. And Blake is just the same. And so good with kids too. They were made for each other! AND, Mandi is the best photographer too.

Can I live close to you guys forever? Please? :)

The Youngest good gossip yet...

Again from Janae...

"I want to spotlight my daughter Cozette. During the last week she has really stepped up and has been helping me with my chores instead of choosing to go out and play. I love her for that."

Wow, can I borrow her? :) She sounds like an awesome kid. So helpful. Let's hope she stays that way!

Do you know why the garden is so great this year? Because...

Another from Janae. She always thinks of good ones...

"Rob H. is the Stake Garden Specialist this year. He has in my opinion gone up and above the call of duty. The gardens look great. Thanks to all that have helped make that a wonderful area and especially to Lisa, Rob's Wife, for her patience as Rob has spent so much time in the garden helping others."

I don't think we even realize how much Rob has done for the garden this year. He has been such a huge resource for ANYTHING you need. Thank you Rob!

Dude, have you met a better gardener???

Janae gave me like 6 items of good gossip, so we'll be riding her coattails for a while...


"For the last two weeks especially I have felt like the "C" family has done nothing but serve me. They have tilled and fertilized my garden, harvested the spinach that Rachel let me plant in her back yard, taken Madelyn so I could plant my garden, and Dan has put my T-line together and attached all the hoses to the water line at the garden. Mandi and I were laughing about how we have the strength to give birth but not the strength to show a piece of hose onto the valve(there is something wrong with that). Also, who can forget all the wonderful things Rachel has taught me about gardening. I would not have a garden without them."

Um, Diddo. Rachel has been so stinking awesome when it comes to gardens. Always willing to answer questions, offer advice, etc. She's even given me tomato food for my tomatoes last year. Did you know that tomatoes eat food? I didn't either. And Dan is always willing to lend a hand when needed. Plus, he's an incredible executive secretary to my hubbie, the least organized person on the planet. :) Thank you "C" family!

Nothing is better than a listening ear...

This again comes from my friend Janae...

"Raven has been the shoulder to cry, laugh, and vent on. Her willingness to listen and not judge has been invaluable to me. I know I can go to her anytime and she will listen and offer encouraging words. To me a listening ear is a great service."

I don't think Raven has had one judgmental thought enter her head. Ever. She's so loving and caring, and always listens. Like Janae, she has also been a great resource to me whenever I need a sounding board.

We love you, Raven!

Quiet service is one of the best kinds...

This also comes from my friend Janae. She gave me like 6 different pieces of good gossip, so we'll be sharing those for a while...

"With four kids I am two arms short and half my brain does not function. But fortunately Brigitte has been my other arms. When I was in labor and the people watching my kids had to go the the insta care Brigitte took the kids. When I have reached my limit and needed to feed the kids Brigitte has brought over meals out of the blue. She has checked in on me to make sure I was surviving. Who can ask for a better friend?"

Brigitte, you are the perfect example of quiet service. You just always show up when something is needed, and you are always so casual about your help. Thank you thank you!

The Best RS Prez for a reason...

This comes from my good friend Janae. She's not only good at serving, but she is awesome at recognizing service!

"Heather has been a good friend and neighbor ever since we moved in. She has been a friend and a mother figure to my kids. Not only is she my life force at church but also during the week. She knows just when to stop by when I need a sanity check. One of her greatest attributes is the ability to make people laugh and boy have I needed that the last 6 weeks. I love her dearly."

How many of you wish you could live in the condo building at the front of the complex? I do! So many nice people in that building! Anyway, Heather is one of the best people you could ever know. She's so smart and funny, and incredible with kids. She always has snacks in her purse- for other people's kids! She's a great example to me and to all of us. We love you Heather!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

The best way to serve is to share your knowledge

This comes from my friend Brigitte...

"Michelle D. has done more for me that I will ever be able to express gratitude for. The last few weeks, she has helped me with getting my garden together since I am now very familiar with that area- and she is extremely educated. She GAVE me 3 planter boxes for me to grow strawberries in my little back yard, went with me to Cooks- so I got all I needed, and provided me with some small cups to put some of them in for the time being. All out of service and kindness--- she is an amazing woman. I will dearly miss her when she moves at the end of this month. And her 2 sweet boys-- they are such a bright light to me. She is always willing to give a helping hand-- such an example to me."

We will seriously miss you, Michelle! Are you SURE you have to move? :)

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com!

Washing Woes

Holy Bananas! This past week and a half has been so busy! This poor blog was so neglected. I'll get back on it! This comes from my good friend Michelle.

"My washing machine died after it was full of a load of the boys' pants, soap and water. They needed the pants the next day!! What to do? Is the laundromat even open at 9 o'clock at night?

I know! I'll ask Jenni, my next door neighbor. Sure enough, she was a DOLL and let me use her washer that night. On top of that, while she was out of town, she lent me the key to her house so I could continue to use the washer until mine was returned. I'm so grateful for wonderful neighbors! Thanks Jenni!"

Jenni, you are so kind, and frankly I think you're gorgeous. It's so nice to know someone who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside. We love you!

We are so lucky to have these neighbors!

Sorry! I've been on vacation, so my goal of one post a day didn't work. But I'll try better!

This comes again from my good friend Raven:

"As a mother to a newborn and two young children, I am learning the art of saying "yes" to offers of help. Today, I pulled into our parking spot after doing some grocery shopping, unloaded the three children, and chatted with my dear neighbor Janae for a minute. I know, I know, I already highlighted Janae on this blog. But this story is actually about her husband, Jared. I mentioned to Janae that I'd be back in a minute to grab my groceries after I got the kids upstairs and she said a couple words to Jared who was over at my car's trunk with no hesitation at all, grabbing the bags of groceries. He lugged them up to our third floor condo for me and brought them into our kitchen. It's acts like these that make me so grateful to live in such a neighborhood surrounded by such terrific people. Jared needed no prodding and he served quietly and with no fuss. What a great guy. Thanks, Jared, for making my day."

Thank you Jared! You give such quiet acts of service! And I know how much you help my husband, all without any want for recognition. Thank you!

Cupcake extroardinaire AND generous to boot!!

This comes from my friend Michelle-

"Brekke is awesome. She is a fantastic photographer. She bakes delicious cupcakes! Her Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes rocks! She is just so much fun and super creative!

BUT. . . the thing I love most about her is generous nature. So many times have I been a recipient of her generosity.

Some time ago Brekke gave me some fabric that she wasn't going to use. Bags of free fabric, all for me!! I love to sew!! I was so giddy, just thinking about all the things I could make with all that fabric. At the time all I could do was sort and store it for "one day".

Well, "one day" came recently, when I had to whip up an apron and mob cap to complete a Betsy Ross costume for an activity at Coby's school. My first thought was "Crud, I don't think I have enough white fabric" But there in those bags I found a bunch of it. Those accessories turned out beautiful!

Then Kai's class was celebrating Cinco de Mayo and his teacher suggested that the students wear a poncho. What am I gonna make his poncho out of? I have solid colored cottons and patterned flannels, but nothing that really says "Poncho." From Brekke's fabric stash, I found the perfect piece. It was just the right size, texture, and had wonderful coloring. All I had to do was cut a triangle from the middle and voila, poncho. Kai loved it!!

My last two escapades in sewing were a success because of her. Thanks Brekke!!"

Thanks, Brekke, for your kindness and example!

The best non-parent on the block

This story comes from my good friend Mandi, about another good friend, Ryan.

"Ryan watched my son most of the morning while I let him run wild in the stake garden. I was helping people get signed up for plots and was being slightly neglectful. But have no fear, Ryan (the man who ALL children adore) kept him fully entertained and safe."

I think all of us have a good story about Ryan that we can share. He and his wife are two of the best people I've ever known. Ryan has an affinity for kids- he's good with them, and they LOVE him.

He always plays with my kids at church, and they are so excited to see him. We were at the garden the other day, and my little 2-year-old said as we were leaving, "Bye, Ry Ry!" It was so cute. And he's just about the best nursery worker you could ask for.

Thanks for being the best Ryan! Also, Ryan and Kristen are looking to adopt, so keep them in mind!

My young grasshopper...

You guys need to start sending me your good gossip! I'm sure it's boring to hear stories that only come from me... :)

Anyway, this is about my good friend Heather.

I don't know if you knew this, but she makes the BEST dessert called grasshopper pie. I'm sure it's simple, but it's SOOOO good. It's gotta be my all-time fave. Who doesn't love mint-chocolate chip ice cream? Honestly? It tastes like the asphalt pie from Wingers. Mmmmm. I'm drooling just thinking about it...

Heather just happens to know that it's my favorite dessert. And do you know what she does EVERY time she makes that dessert? She hikes her way up those darn stairs and hand-delivers two beautiful pieces to me for Brandon and I.

And if I'm truly honest with myself, both pieces end up getting eaten by me. :)

Heather, that is honestly so nice of you! It's very kind and thoughtful for you to think of me.

Send me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com! Any act of service is welcome!

This Southerner is AWESOME

I'm sure you all know Andria. She's in a different ward now, but she will always be known by my girls as the candy lady at church.

She volunteered to bring Janae a meal once she had her baby, and I witnessed this act of kindness. I was outside by Janae's house, when I see her with takeout for her and Jared, and McDonalds for the kids. And Andria is helping her take it inside. Andria had taken Janae with her to hand-pick their dinner for that evening. How nice is that? To choose exactly what you want for dinner, and to get to spend time with Andria in the car too? Perfect, if you ask me.
I just thought that was so nice of her to give that little piece of luxury to Janae while she was nurturing her newborn.

Andria, we miss you like the dickens! I hope your new ward knows exactly what they have- a treasure.

Email me at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com for your good gossip!

The Best Blog on the Block

My friend Michelle, does such a GREAT service to the community! She created a blog a few years back that includes EVERYTHING Utah Valley. Everything you could ever need!

One time, she posted that it was national pretzel day, and that pretzels were free at pretzelmaker that day. So, the girls and I headed over to the mall, played in the big treehouse thingy, and got a free pretzel. It was the perfect little playdate, and it was FREE!

Thanks, Michelle. Your blog is AWESOME.

Go here if you want to see her community blog: http://pleasantspringsvillage.blogspot.com/

The nice way of saying "you reek!"

This is about my friend Janice-

Long story short, Our house smells like cigarette smoke. For the story, go here. I was telling the story at stake choir practice, where Janice just happens to be.

That night, when we were at home reveling in our stinkiness, Janice shows up at our door with a 'kit' of sorts to help with our smelly home. She brought brownies (my favorite mint brownies that she didn't know were my fave), febreze, odor eaters, a candle, and a fan.

I just thought that was so nice of her! It showed that she was thinking of us and she cared. And we used her fan, though we have 5 of our own. If I could have a fan in every square foot of our house, I think I would at this point. :)

Thank you Janice! That was SOOO nice of you!

Email me your good gossip at cassmaster(at)gmail)dot)com.

To Seattle they go

My good friend Tia will be moving this next week to Seattle, and we are so sad to see her go. Here is what my friend Maggie had to say about her:

Tia has been my visiting teacher for a very long time, and she will be leaving us this next week. She has not only been my visiting teacher, but also my good friend. She is not one of those sisters that only comes around to make her monthly quota on visiting teaching. She is there for you always, no matter what you need.

Tia has been there for me through the good times and the bad. She was here for me last year when I lost my younger brother to a massive heart attack. She has been there for me when most of my grandbabies have been born. And she was there when I found out that my mother has lung cancer. Like I said Tia is one of a kind. She just seems to know when I need that extra visit through the month or a phone call every now and again to see how things are going.

Tia has been such a good friend not only to me, but to my girls also. When I question about Vanessa, she is always there to remind me that Vanessa is a beautiful girl and that we know that her spirit and heart belongs to our Heavenly Father. And for this Tia has gotten me through quite a bit.

One thing that stands out in my mind that Tia did was this past winter. Tia, Benji and Charlie had come over just for a visit. Anyways Kayla had been sick all night long and she was wanting some 7-up and Chicken Noodle soup. And my son John was here after having some surgery on his foot. He said that he did not feel like going to the store for me. So what did Tia do, she bundled up her two little boys and went to Macey's to purchase some 7-up and chicken noodle soup for Kayla. I will never forget how unselfish she was to take her two sons out in the cold weather so that Kayla could have something to eat. I could go on and on, but I need to let someone else have a turn.

So Tia if you are reading this I hope that you and your family will travel safely and find a wonderful new life in Washington. I will miss all of you and our love goes with you'll.


Tia, you and your family will be missed IMMENSELY!

Love in the form of clothes

This one is given to me by my good friend Raven, about Janae, who I'm sure will frequent this blog because she's awesome too. Thank you, Raven!


So, anyone who lives around here knows that Janae is one of the most neighborly doer of good deeds around. And she always serves quietly and with the purest of intentions. I could list a dozen things she has done for me personally, but here's the most recent one. We just had our third baby, a little boy. We already have a boy in the family, so you'd think we be set for clothes and other baby items. But just a couple days after baby came, I heard my husband answer the door, say an enthusiastic "thank you!" and close the door. When I came out, there was a huge bin, a whole garbage bag, and a smaller box stuffed with boy clothes. Everything from newborn onesies to toddler coats. I know there were a couple families who donated to this stash, so thank you to you all. I sorted through, took what I needed, and gave the rest back to Janae to pass on to someone else.

Here's the great thing. Janae didn't just say, "Let me know if there's ever anything I can do," which, admittedly, is exactly what I said to her a couple weeks later when her baby came. She just thought of a need we might have and took action. She quietly dropped them by with no fuss and served our family in her usual wonderful way.

You are awesome, Janae! My world is better because of you.

Life is like a jar of peanut butter...

I'm sure I will have a lot of posts about Britney. She's kind of awesome. This comes from me today...

So, I was in the middle of making a treat for a girls' night, when I realized I needed peanut butter and I didn't have any. This is a rarity. We love PB at our house, so it's surprising that we were at the end of our carton and I didn't have a spare.

I sent my 4-year-old downstairs to my friend Britney's house to borrow her peanut butter. My daughter comes back with this huge container of peanut butter, and says, "Grady's Mom says we can just keep this."

I ask her again, because, well, a 4-year-old is likely to get it wrong, but I know my girl is telling the truth, because that's such a Britney thing to do.

Once I took the 1/2 cup I needed, I sent my daughter back down to Britney's house, and I told her to tell Britney no thank you. I wasn't going to take her whole big container of PB! That's just too nice.

2 days or so later, Britney herself comes to my door and won't let me refuse her Peanut Butter. That stinker. She says she bought a 2-piece set at Costco and will never get around to using them both. So we are set for the next while for PB! Honestly, that was so nice to me. We love PB, so not having to remember it at the store is just helpful.

Thanks, Brit!

Email me at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com if you have any good stories!

New Blog!!

Hey all, I was thinking in the car today (isn't that where all good thinking starts?) and I was reveling in the fact that I love the community I live in. I feel as if we all get along well, I have great friendships, and I have met people I want to stay in contact with for the rest of my life.

So, I wanted a place to a)showcase the great people around here and what they do for others, and b) breed more good deeds by telling others. I think 'good gossip' is great. I hope that makes sense...

Anyway, here's the deal. I need your help! If you live in the Pleasant Grove area and either did something nice, heard of someone doing something nice, or someone did something nice for you, email me! I want to have something to post EVERY DAY.

If you'd also like to be a contributor to the blog, LET ME KNOW! I'd love the help. So, email me at cassmaster(at)gmail(dot)com.

Thanks!

-Cassie