Sometimes, we do something so well, people think of us in one dimension. Your accomplishment in that one thing defines who you are.
In the case of Kitty Callender and Diana Grace, there are worse things they could be known as besides the “Cupcake Ladies.”
“One little girl told me I must be so happy,” Grace said. “I asked why, and she said it’s because we just go around and give cupcakes to everyone. They think that’s what we do for a living.”
Grace and Callender started bringing cupcakes – and other gifts and books – to the NEST about four years ago as part of a VFW Ladies’ Auxillary project.
Since then it’s grown to have a life of its own. 
“We figured it would be a nice thing to do for some group somewhere,” Callender said. “VFW provided the funds, while Noon Lions (Callender is a member) donated $500 at Christmas for a party.”
The pair visit the NEST monthly, and the kids look forward to the treats. They do it for the kids, but we understand where the women are coming from. We love going to see the residents there because we identify with it, each of us in our own way.”
Walmart’s bakery supplies the cupcakes, usually with special flourishes for the kids. An example is football rings they put on the last batch to commemorate the Super Bowl.
Callender said the point isn’t to just give away gifts at random, it’s to bring some joy and normalcy into lives that have been ruptured by domestic violence and abuse.
“We try to show the ladies and kids that there’s an average life. Not everyone is mean,” Callender said. “We sit and listen and help as much as we can. We might not be able to help them directly, but we might know who can.”
After being honored by the Ruidoso Chamber of Commerce as Volunteers of the year, the two came to the attention of Dina Garner at Skeen Furniture, which now provides $100 each month for the cupcake soirees.
Callender said they’re not doing it for the recognition, but it is nice when they’re recognized outside of the shelter by those they’ve helped.
“These women come from all over, they’re not from Lincoln County,” Callender said. “When they see me after they’ve left the NEST, even two years later, they thank me. It’s not why we do it, but it’s gratifying to see that they appreciate it.”