Out of the mouth of babes...

So Saturday we went to Aquatica (Sea World's water park) and it had been a BEAUTIFUl, and as typical in Florida it quickly clouded over and began to thunder and we got out of the pool for a little bit. Grace quickly told Kayla that she didn't need to fear over the thunder, it was just "Angels bowling in heaven" hahahhaha HOW CUTE!!! I'm not too sure where she heard that, but it cracked me up. We had a wonderful time being together and enjoying the lovely day. My nieces informed me that they were so grateful that I was their aunt and that if something happened to my sister they wanted me to raise them haha morbid little freaks!

More fun/funny moments with the nieces!!

Today is a BEAUTIFUL day here in central Florida, so I decided to go on my run earlier than normal. I took Chloe (Rusty's daughter) along with me to enjoy it all. She was passed out in the stroller after 10 strides! I looked down and her paci was plunging out of her mouth. She is such a delight! She stayed passed out for the whole hour and 20 min we were there. We got back to the car and she woke up to give me and huge grin and we were off to pick Grace (Lori's daughter) up from Preschool.

We stroll up to the pre-school and Grace is usually waiting for us and her teacher brings her out. I sat there for 5 min contemplating pulling Chloe out of her car seat, and investigating with my hot and steamy nasty-self! Just then Grace's teacher is carrying her to the car Grace holding her shoes on her belly while her buttcrack is exposed for the hole world to see I broke down laughing while her teacher explained they were cleaning up from their activity and Grace was a mess, so they had to clean her up (oh how typical that is). We get back to the house, and I am making lunch for Chloe and Grace while they are watching Dora the explorer. They were tying to teach the kids how to say "abajo" which means down.. Grace is being a good girl and repeating everything Dora is telling her to, and she looks at me and says, "Lydia, why does it sound like she says butthole?" HAHAHAHAHA I laughed so hard and had to call my sister to crack up at what she had just discovered! I don't know where she comes up with this stuff!

I love these kids! My life is never dull or boring with these girls!

Life is such a wonderful journey!

I'm so thankful to have this semester over! Even more thankful that I've concurred one of my biggest fears--MATH! For me, math has always been so abstract to grasp, but it is the only thing standing in my way of obtaining the degree that I want so badly. I knew that I had to face it head-on. I would get knots in my stomach just thinking about it, seriously. I would jump out of an airplane a hundred times before I would want to take a math class! Most people have a list of all these fears like speaking in front of large crowds, skydiving, spiders, Chucky etc. My only fears are Math and snakes! So to take this on caused me more anxiety than I would ever admit to anyone, but I went forward praying every step of the way. I would have to motivate myself to study for this ugly subject. if I didn't get an application of a concept, then I would study even harder. I got to know myself and my own willpower on a deeper level over the course of this semester. I had to learn to let things I desperately wanted to do go by the way side. I wanted to finish this, and prove to myself I could do it. I had found excuses for years as to why I didn't need to take the class after having signed up for it. I counted the other day, and I had dropped this very class 4 times previously WOW! What a nutcase, right?? I don't think anyone can understand my legitimate fear. I wasn't making it up at all.

I sucked it up, was usually early and attended EVERY class, sat at the front of the class (in a class I hated). I was even less excited that we had about 7 tests over the next 16 weeks. Not just little tests, BIG, HUGE 50 question tests.. My nerves were fried, but I kept a positive attitude about it, and tried to encourage myself. I studied my guts out, and some tests it didn't matter how hard I had studied, my hard work went un-rewarded. I remember going to the lake after getting my results with tears in my eyes asking heavenly father "why?". I had worked so hard and I couldn't understand why I wasn't being rewarded for all my efforts I had put forth. Couldn't he see I was trying? In Ether12:27 it says "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them." That verse kept repeating over and over again in my mind.. I kept thinking okay, Lord how much more humbled do you need me to be? I have faith, that's the only reason I'm taking this class. I know I couldn't do it on my own. I've asked for you help, now where are you when I need you? (being a big brat). After thinking those thoughts I felt so guilty. How could I assume he had left me? He hadn't left me, he knew I had faith in him, and he just wanted me to know and understand that it wasn't my power that could make everything work out, that I had to put my total trust in him and his matchless power. I then had the courage to not give up, that he truly was with me, and would help me finish strong. I ended up having a successful grade after all my stress.

Moral of the story is this.. God gives us all weaknesses/fears/trials all of which to compel us to be humbled. All in hopes that we turn to him, walking forward in faith, trusting in his mercy and endless, yet matchless power. Whatever task is placed before us, we need to not fear, but exercise faith over fear, and when we do that we will be able to walk through those trials and tribulations that will be for our own growth and good.

Our JFK Legend

I found my grandfather's obituary online, so I figured I'd post it. I know it's been almost a year, but I've never seen a copy of it. Last Saturday they had his estate sale, which has had me thinking of him constantly. I know that it was just things that he collected, but it feels like another piece of him is gone forever. Things that held memories, are gone forever. I was unable to attend the auction because it was in Indiana and I'm preparing for finals. A few of my siblings attended, and they said there were stories all over the place being told of Grandpa, and their memories with him. Everyone of his guns were sold to his friends. One gun sold for almost 2k because everyone wanted something to remember him by. It was a horrible day as far as the weather was concerned, but that didn't hault the attendance. There were over 700 people there, and 400 registered bidders. When my sister was walking up to the house, she heard someone behind her say to his friend "I never knew this man, but everyone says he was a great man, and well loved." My sister then turned around and said "he was more than a great man, he was a legend". That he was! Loved by so many people! I know he is probably doing all those same things in heaven carrying on like always. I take great comfort in the gospel of Jesus Christ that affords me so much relief in these times. God be with him until we meet at Jesus feet.



John F. Kash, 71, of Milan, passed away at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at his home.He was born on October 23, 1937 to Caleb and Maud (Sebastian) Kash at their home in Sunman, Ind.He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Lawrence; sister-in-law, Patricia; and his niece, Pamela.He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Dorine; one sister, Lena Czimbal (Larry) of Muncie, Ind; two brothers, Leonard (Beverly) Kash and James (Eula) Kash of Milan; stepchildren, Linda (Larry) Weaver of Batesville, Donna (Frank) Ingram of Rockport, Ind., Brenda (Jerry) Johnson of Milan, Mark (Luann) Konradi of Milan, Randy Konradi of Dover, and Lisa (Steve) Williamson of Sunman; grandchildren, Chris (Linda) Campbell, Craig Campbell, Lori Campbell-Kennedy, Rusty (Christin) Weaver, Lydia Weaver of Florida, Adam Weaver of Batesville, Tonya Ingram of Indianapolis, Ronda (Cliff) Kennedy of Rockport, Ind., Tracy Johnson-Mullikin of Osgood, Liz (Paul) Roell of Milan, Nicholas (Angela) Johnson, of Milan, Danielle Konradi of Osgood, Chad and Brandon Konradi of Milan, and Abby Williamson of Sunman; seven nieces, four nephews, and 15 great-grandchildren.John was an active member of the Army Reserves before going to work at Philco in Connersville for 1 1/2 years, working with sheet metal. He worked for Benefit Company while he lived with his sister, Lena, for 8 years in Cincinnati. Next he traveled with Armco Steel for 1 1/2 years to different towns across the country. Once he finished with Armco, he worked in cement finishing for 26 years. He worked for Henry Rose Well Drilling for 10 years. John finished his career working in cement finishing for Force Construction until he retired due to throat cancer in 1990. He married his wife Dorine, on June 26, 1983.John has been an active Milan Legion Post 235 member for 42 years. John loved flying, hunting, his hunting dogs, fishing, going to auctions, flea markets, teaching his young neighbors many things and tinkering with what others may think of as junk, but to him they were treasures. John was proud to be a Registered Democrat, and wanted everyone to know it! The funeral service was held July 3 at the funeral home. Rev. Harris Long, pastor of First Baptist Church of Milan, officiated. Burial was in Craven Cemetery in Milan. Pallbearers were members of the Milan American Legion, Post #235.Memorial donations may be directed to Dearborn County Hospice or Milan Rescue 30. Please visit www.cookfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family.

The past few days I've wondered how much different motherhood will be from aunthood... I have so much fun being an aunt to my nieces and nephews. They bring such joy into my life.

I attended my 8 year old nieces school dance program. I was excited to meet the classmates my niece has described to me at various times throughout the year. Kayla was so happy and proud to see me. She motioned for me to come over to her and her classmates. She introduced me to all her classmates. I talked with them, gave them high fives for getting good grades on their spelling pre-tests, asked them about their dance etc. After I picked Kayla up from school that day, she laughed and said all my friends said they want an aunt just like you, and I'm so lucky to have such a fun aunt. It made me feel good that even at her age she still appreciates me.

I love how she loves me, and makes me feel so loved. I hope she always feels that way. I have such a deep love for my nieces and nephews. Its hard for me to comprehend that my love for my own children will someday be even stronger. We all went out to dinner the other night, and Kayla and I arrived before everyone else, so we had some nice time to chat. She told me she thought I should work in a restaurant because I look good in an apron hahaha! I said well Kayla, I like to travel a lot I don't think I could do all I want to on that salary. Her reply was well then get a second job at Publix, then you could get cheap food! haha Why didn't I think of that? :) She also told me who she thought would make a great husband for me, and was telling me all the pros as to why that should work out haha.. I got to talk with her about where I want to get married, and why it is important to get married in the temple, the house of God. I got to tell her why learning about the real meaning of Easter is important. She is such a delight, and a spiritual giant at such a young age! She is at such a fun age! She can talk grown up, and she can reason pretty well, but she still has the innocents of a child. I'm grateful to my sister for allowing me to be so involved in their lives. I can't imagine my life without the blessing of these girls. They have taught me so much, and have shown me a love I've never before experienced. Its not just my nieces, I have very special nephews too! I just don't have the privilege of living with them too. My family has been blessed with the best, choice little children, and I'm so glad I get to call them mine! My siblings let me play with them and teach them funny tricks that sometimes get them in trouble-- Ex: I have these things called "pop pops" that I purchased in Indiana, and they are like snapping pops on steroids. (Sound identical to a 22 shotgun) I have had so much fun throwing them at both those I know, and perfect strangers frightening nearly anyone within hearing distance. Everyone thinks a real gun has gone off.. Lori, was on the phone with State Farm technical support outside (for a computer problem with her agency) , and Kayla found one I had left in the car, and decided to scare her mommy. She threw it down and Lori jumped and screamed and scared the guy on the phone half to death! Leaving him with a few accidental choice words hahaha!! .. Lori came in the house all upset and told me I needed to stop because she talks to important people on the phone, and I need to set a better example on that. I just looked dead at her and busted up laughing!! (which she ended up laughing too). Kayla came in my room to hid, and crack up laughing because she knew I wouldn't yell at her, and would tell her "good job!" accompanied with a high five and tons of laughter! I love these kids :)

What can I say? she knows I'm cool! ;)

I'm a pretty lucky girl

I was fortunate enough to have lots of family down this past month. My mom was down here for nearly 3 weeks, and although I didn't get as much time with her as I would have liked, it was great to be with her for whatever amount of time. My sister had surgery, which was for the most part, the reason for her trip. Lori wouldn't be able to drive for 6 weeks, so with me being in school it would have proved very difficult for me to cover all the rides the kids needed, and various other taxing responsibilities. When mom flew out, she met dad in the Orlando airport handed him the car keys just as he got off the plane, and just before she flew back home. He then drove back to our house. We were lucky enough to be able to spend my dad's 69th birthday with him here in Florida. He came in the day after my race, and his birthday was the upcoming Friday. I knew I wanted to do something that showed my gratitude towards him for all that he had helped me with not only over the weekend, but throughout my life. It was the day before his birthday, and I had 30 minutes before I left for school so I decided I would write him something. It's not my best work, but I didn't have time to make it perfect; however, it was from my heart. I'm only putting this on my blog so I have record of it in a safe place. I don't mean to come off as being too public, and I appoligize if anyone thinks so. Here it is...

The First Man I Ever Loved

The first man I ever loved held me just minutes after I was born

The first man I ever loved saw a mirrored version of
Himself through my eyes all dressed in pink frills

The first man I ever loved taught me how to ride a bike when all the other kids my age were learning to walk.

The First Man I ever loved taught me by example that it was important to read my scriptures to know and understand my savior

The First man I ever loved taught me hard work and motivation was very important in life.

The first man I ever loved taught me the meaning of the word “You’re puking crazy.”


The first man I ever loved taught me to honor the Priesthood of God, and that it was again restored to the earth.

The first man I ever loved showed me obstacles were meant to be jumped over, climbed over, blown up and a part of history.

The first man I ever loved showed me in order to live life to the fullest; you’ve got to have extreme adventure.

The first man I ever loved believed in me when others said it couldn’t be done.


The first man I ever loved showed me by example that when life throws us lemons, we make lemonade.

The first man I ever loved has always been a caretaker, and a loving helping hand to those in need.

The first man I ever loved has Christ-like charity for all he comes into contact with

The first man I ever loved taught me many things that will always be a part of who I am.

The first man I ever loved is my hero in the highest regard. He is not only my hero; he is the man that I am lucky enough to call my father.

I will forever be thankful for this man of great honor and integrity that has blessed my life beyond measure.
All my love, your “little girl”

Run like a Princess!!

The weekend of March 7th was my very first half-marathon! It was held at Disney, and was the Princess half-marathon. I was a little worried because I hadn't been able to prepare as I wanted to. Only to add to that anxiety, I was ill almost the entire week before. Which meant that it had been over a week since I had last exercised whatsoever! I wasn't sure how I would do or even if I would finish, but I wanted to go. I wanted to at least give it my best, and if I thought I was going to die, or fell too far behind pace, the man in the truck would pick me up. The day before the race I came back home (an hour drive) to attend my niece, Chloe's 1st birthday party. I was teased by my brothers because none of them believed I could do it, and keep my pace given my stats. I questioned my own abilities, but then further declared to myself that it didn't really matter what they thought I could accomplish, I knew I had it in me (at least the desire). There were only 2 people that told me I could do it, and not to worry about the rest. One being my dad.
My dad has ran many half marathons in his day, and sent loads of tips flying my way to help me along! He will never know how much of an inspiration he was to me that weekend especially. I called him before I went to bed, and then again at 4am when the race was ready to start. He is the only man I know that would be happy to hear from me at 4am, and have such cheer and encouragement in his voice, which flooded me and my friend, Amy. My mom wanted me to know that she would be so proud of me whatever I accomplished. if that was 6 miles, so be it, she would be proud. (Such a mom, I know. That's why she means so much to me). My personal goal was only to finish.

I had never been so excited/nervous to be up at 3am, showered, dressed and ready to arrive at my destination by 4am in my entire life! Amy and I kept telling ourselves we had to do this. Upon signing in, we realized we were in different groups as we started off. I was like 15 minutes behind her. My heart dropped, and wondered how I would do without my great friend, Amy pushing me along. I then decided it was all up to me. I knew I was on this great journey on my own anyways. Nobody could run this race for me, it was mine, and if I wanted to feel the glory of it all I had to get my mind in the right place. I kept telling myself, "If dad can beat stage 4 cancer, surely you can run 13.1 miles." Those of you who have done one knows your mind goes a million places, with many emotions involved even if you aren't an emotional person (of which I'm not). I stood with my group all together as we moved closer to the start line.. I made a few friends as I stood and waited to start. I don't like strangers, so quickly they became friends. "Sue" from Maryland was doing this with her daughter who was also in another group. Which left both of us in the same situation, so we decided to stick together. Mile 3- she was running out of breath and I knew she was slowing me down, so I encouraged her to keep going, and bid my friend a good race, and went on. All through the race I thought of Amy, and wondered how she was doing. I would say a prayer for her that she would keep going, and that he would help her and encourage her onward. Mile 6- I was starting to notice that it was getting harder. I saw a woman with a shirt of herself as a little girl, alongside her dad holding hands on the beach. The back of her shirt read, "running for my hero". My eyes teared up, and I thought that is exactly what I'm doing! I'm running because my dad showed me how fun it could be. I remember going to countless races as a kid to support my dad. This is what my dad would love to see me doing, this is what he wants me to finish. It was at that point that I got another wave of energy. I prayed again for Amy, and prayed that she would do this for herself, and learn her capabilities. As I ran through Cinderella's castle in Magic Kingdom, I had another rushed sense of renewal. I knew I was just over half way home. Mile 8- I could feel my blisters forming on my flat feet. I knew I had to keep going. Mile 9- I was starting to hit a wall. I prayed for help, and encouragement to finish. This was something I wanted, something I wanted to accomplish for myself, so I started running faster instead of stopping. Just about to the mile 10 checkpoint, I thought I was going to die. I didn't know how I could do another 3.1 miles. Just then, I hear someone screaming from behind me "LYDIA!!!!" to my delight, it was Amy, I had passed her briefly. I felt like my prayers had been answered!! The Lord knew when my darkest hour was, and he made it possible for us to meet up. There were almost 11,000 people in the race, and for us to actually see each other was nothing short of a miracle. We walked the last 3 miles, and ran the last .1 mile, but WE DID IT!!! Against the odds stacked against us, WE DID IT with the Lord's helping, yet encouraging hand. After the race I discovered that just like I had, Amy had been praying for me too. I also discovered the moment I felt a rush of gratitude for my dad being the man that he is, he had sent me a text message to keep going, I could do it! That is a huge statement to get a text from my dad.. He just doesn't know how to do that kind of stuff. It was such an incredible feeling that I can't describe.. An AMAZING experience, and something I highly recommend everyone doing. I've already started training for my next one. I've got 3 more half marathons this year! I can't wait!! :)