06/21/2026
Many of you remember that about 3 weeks ago my riding lawnmower, that I use to cut yards for folks in need of help, caught fire and burned. What happened after that left this old guy, who is never at a loss for words, speechless. The outpouring of kindness and support to get me back out there helping folks was truly awe inspiring. I literally lost count of how many folks offered to help. Some sent donations and some brought me used mowers, even more people offered used mowers, and one wonderful couple bought me a brand new one. There were so many offers that with some of their permissions, we were able to gift riding mowers to a three families I knew who desperately needed them- folks who had borrowed push mowers from me for years but who's yards are so big made it very difficult for them to do. What follows is more details of the whole thing.
First, I want to let those who sent cash donations that I used those funds to order chains for two of the mowers I kept for myself and weather covers because with my garage so full of tools for the library I have to park the mowers outside. Most of the used mowers that were donated needed some work to function so I also used some of your donations to get them up and running. I thank you so much for your love, kindness and support. ❤️
Second, I told some of you this already, but to those of you who offered mowers that I didn't take, it really is the thought that counts. I appreciate all of you who offered, I truly do❤️❤️❤️
Third, to those of you, when I said I already had mowers given to me but I knew some folks who really could use them and you jumped at the chance to help them that was one of my favorite parts of this whole thing. One of you actually delivered the big 48" John Deere mower to them and I know you felt the total joy of helping someone in need that I often experience, from being there with you when we surprised them. You just don't know how appreciative they have been, sending me several thank you messages since. I'm smiling just typing this now. Thank you so much❤️
Next, two of you hand delivered me two of the mowers pictured. One is a 24HP Craftsman rider that is in really good shape, it totally replaces the one that burned. The other is a 46" Husqvarna zero turn, it starts right up and runs great- going to do a little work on the deck and steering on it to make it even better. You guys didn't hesitate at all to load those up and delivery them straight to me. Just unbelievable kindness, thank you so much ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Lastly, regarding the beautiful brand new Ariens Edge LT zero turn mower. A couple who were out of the country working, offered to buy the new mower. I told them it would be a huge blessing but it was just too much. They said no it's just the right amount and they were so happy to do it. They made me promise not to acknowledge them publicly and ordered it in my name at Lowe's and I went and picked it up. I was so excited I just couldn't stand myself.
The first lawn I cut with it was for someone recovering from cancer who had received a notice of a fine for uncut lawn from the city. When I pulled up it literally looked like a hayfield, I wasn't sure how it would perform but it made short work of it and the lady was just thrilled to have her yard done so nicely. It was a huge worry lifted from her.
The second lawn I cut with it was for a lady who had been working full-time and taking care of her sick father. When I told her I was heading to her place to cut she said she really appreciated it because her father she had cared for a very long time had just passed away. 😢
I'll make sure that new mower, and the others continue to pay it forward to those who need it most. The amount of kindness these will help spread and the pure worry it'll save folks who have no where else to turn is completely priceless and unbelievably appreciated. All of you who reached out in the multiple different ways are the epitome of spreading kindness. You are what is right in this world and are a true blessing to me and all those I try to help. A huge THANK YOU to all of you!!!
Hope all you Dads have a very Happy Father's Day!
