Lines Family

Memorial Day

2010-06-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Michel was so glad he made it home in time to go to Grandpa's house.

Daddy and Katelyn.

At this point all Ashlyn wanted to do was get out of those ice skates. Love her face.

Ashlyn is excited to go out (right then she was)

I know I am a little late but here goes. Michel had the awesome opportunity to go with our neighbor up to there cabin in Big bear CA. He left Thurs. after the last day of school and was gone until Monday. It was the longest he has been gone from us. It was certain that our family was not complete with out him. But I know the Willis' took good care of him because he didn't really miss us. He had so much fun we are so appreciative to our awesome neighbors for inviting him and treating him like he was part of the family. Well while Michel was out having fun we couldn't let the other kids be bored. We decided to take Katelyn and Ashlyn ice skating over at Polar Ice. Katelyn has been begging us to take her I think she thought it would be really easy. She learned real fast that it wasn't as easy as it looks. It took her a few tries and after awhile she was able to do it pretty good. Ashlyn on the other hand took some more convincing. Daddy had to pretty much drag her around the rink and that was enough for her. So me, Ashlyn and Tyler just sat in the player box and watched Daddy and Katelyn whirl past us. It was fun. After making it our of Polar Ice in one piece we went to Grandma and Grandpa Lines for dinner and had a BBQ. Grandpa got the quads out and of course that is always a big hit. It was a fun day and always good to have daddy home.

Katelyn and her new hobby!

2010-06-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Shayne and Katelyn with thier ribbons.

Katelyn so excited she got second. I thought she got first-it was that close.

Katelyn getting ready!

Katelyn warming up with the Parry Paranahs.

This year we decided to have Katelyn try swim team over at Parry pool. She diligently wakes up at 6:45 am to make sure she is ready to leave the house at 7:40 am. She attends practice Monday thru Thursday for 40 mins. each time. Every week they learn a new stroke. So far they have conquered the backstroke and freestyle. They practice the assigned stroke for that week and then they are able to participate in a swim on Thursday nights. This last week we had our first meet, Katelyn competed in the 25 meter backstroke and the 25 meter freestyle. She was pretty nervous but she did great. Katelyn got 5th place in the backstroke (she was pretty bummed) and 2nd place in the freestyle. We are proud of her she has turned into a little fish this summer and she is enjoying every minute of it! She loves the fact that she does all this with her good friend Shayne (I do too, it helps with the carpool!). Good job Katelyn!!

Easter take 2

2010-04-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Ashlyn

Michel and Tyler. Again Tyler was not interested in finding the eggs.

Our pretty Katelyn!

Grandpa and Tyler.

Easter Morning as the kids waited to look for the eggs. Of course Tyler was only wanting the candy.

Well this is the second post for our Easter. On Easter morning the kids woke up to eggs scattered thru out the house and outside in the backyard. This year we decided to put our money in the eggs instead of buying as much candy. I think Katelyn and Michel got about $12 each not bad if I do say so. Enjoy the pictures!

Easter 2010

2010-04-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

This is where we would find Tyler always climbing on something!

Grandpa and Ashlyn

Michel and all his eggs.

Great Grandma Lines and Katelyn

Cousin Krista and Ashlyn.

Ya I know we are really behind but better late then never right? We had a great Easter. It first started out with a party at Great Grandma Lines' house. Thanks Patti for organizing that! The kids colored eggs then had a Easter egg hunt. Fun! The kids look forward to it every year.

Continued again.... Ok last one

2009-11-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

I Love this picture of my Big Boy. Todd he misses having races with you at Grandma's house. By the time you guys get back he may just beat you!
Tyler on the swing- Of course he has to fight Ashlyn for his turn on the swing.

Halloween Night. Daddy just got home from his hunt that day.

All the kids Halloween Night.

- Michel started baseball this past fall. He is in boys 7-9 coach pitch. He loves it.

Continued... for Melissa and Todd

2009-11-29T07:43:00.001-08:00

Michel at school for his award in Sept. Katelyn was also Student of the month but she hurried off to fast for me to get a picture. They also both received Perfect attendance. Way to go kids!!
Michel's first lost tooth in Oct.

Katelyn observing Tyler's haircutting process.

This is how Ashlyn usually looks-dirty faced, hair crazy, and half dressed! Gotta love her!

Ashy!

This is for you Melissa and Todd!!

2009-11-29T07:18:00.000-08:00

Tyler's first haircut. Tyler was 10 months.

Tyler-9 months

Michel's 6th birthday party with the family.

Michel's party.

I found Tyler like this when he was about 9 mo. Now it is a natural occurrence.

These are a few pictures of what has been going on in the last couple months. I want to post them for my sister in law, Melissa who is braving the cold in Chicago and can't be here to watch the kids grow. We love and miss you guys.

Chicago Here "I" come!!

2009-08-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

Me and Valerie on the Navy Pier. Downtown Chicago in the background

As you can see the clouds behind the city it was always overcast which was really pretty and it kept the temperature nice and cool.

This is one view of the "Magnificent Mile" Buildings and people every where. Doesn't anyone work?

Todd and Melissa at the Navy Pier.

This is the other part of downtown.

I was so excited when my mom invited me and my sister to go to Chicago with her. I have never been there and let's just say it was pretty cool. What was even better my sister-n-law Melissa and her husband Todd had just moved up there for Todd to go to school so we were able to visit them. To top it off I went kid free!! Michel was able to take time off work to watch the rascals. We had alot of fun, it was neat to see a big city like that. We had to get familiar with the local transit system which wasn't bad once you got used to the constant smell of sewer and always feeling like after you were done that you needed to soak in a big bath of antibacterial. oh well! We shopped and ate and ate and shopped. My mom and sister were laughing because i would order anything I wanted instead of always ordering what the kids would have liked. We got rained on when we were on the Magnificent Mile shopping (more like poured on). The weather other than late was cool and breezy alot better then the 110 Arizona had. We went to the Navy Pier which consisted of Lake Michigan. It was huge it looked like an ocean you could not see the other side. Thanks Melissa and Todd for meeting up with us it was good to see you guys-good luck the next 4 yrs. Melissa you will come back a changed woman and you will probably love Chicago and not want to leave. What an experience I loved it but was glad to come home to know that the kids missed me. Thanks Michel for the little vacation next time we will have to go together.

Their New Adventure (without Mommy!!)

2009-07-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

After Daddy gave Michel his blessing if you notice Ashlyn needed to have one to-so sweet.

After Katelyn and Ashlyn's blessing. I just love my girls (and of course their daddy!!)

Michel in is classroom by his cubbies.

Michel playing on the playground with some friends.

Right before we went off to school. I usually drive them the first day but after that they will be riding the bus ( I am a big fan of school transportation especially when you have 2 babies usually asleep when they get home)

Well today I sent Katelyn to 2nd grade and Michel into Kindergarten. Sigh!! Katelyn I am used to going but Michel he is mommies little buddy. I definitely had mixed emotions today. I know he is ready but are us mom's ever ready to send our child off to the real world? Probably never. I am so excited for Michel he has waited along time for today and to my surprise he was just as excited. It took him a minute to find his friends on the playground but once he did he was off only to way goodbye to me Tyler and Ashlyn as we walked away. Katelyn on the other hand was getting embarrassed that I was taking so many pictures and she is only in the second grade. She has her best friend in her class which has helped alot with getting her excited to start school. It should be interesting to see how much they really do like school after the first day. what an exciting time of year. One of my favorite moments is when daddy gives them there blessings how awesome for them to receive this gift from daddy. Well I feel like a new woman with only 2 kids at home oh what should I do with all my free time? I love that I get to have Ashlyn and Tyler home alone and get to know them so much better. I do know that the kids will be sorely missed by their younger siblings. Here's to a great year ahead of us full of firsts and new adventures.

Happy Birthday Dad

2009-07-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Sadly this is one of the only a few pictures of my dad I have. This is Katelyn with Grandpa. You would think atleast one of my kids would nice tan skin.

Well I just wanted to say Happy Birthday Dad. This will be our 3rd time celebrating his birthday without him here with us. I miss him terribly and wish every day he were here. But I know I will one day see him again and am very grateful for that. He was an awesome dad and grandpa. I love him and think about him every day. I will try to live up to his example and I am proud he was my father for 29 yrs. Happy Birthday Dad we love!!

Yes I know it has been a LONG time!!

2009-06-26T10:38:00.001-07:00

Katelyn and Michel made Ashlyn a bed in one of Tyler's seats- actually they buried her in blankets

Our garden, we got a lot of vegetables from it. The corn did really well. As did the zucchini and the summer squash. We also found a watermelon plant from last year that is growing.

Tyler at 7 months. He is such a fun little baby, who is totally spoiled with his 3 older brothers and sisters constantly around him.

Tyler on the swing. Ashlyn at first was not to happy to have to share her swing but she quickly got over it.

Michel with his coveted trophy. Ya!!

Ya Ya I know but I have have been pretty busy. I am going to do a quick recap over the last few months. Katelyn finished her first grade year and is excited to be moving into second grade. Michel finished up t-ball which he loved. Ashlyn just grew and is enjoying having a full house with the kids home all day. Tyler has learned the art of crawling and is into everything, he is now almost 8mo. old, he weighs about 20lbs. and has 8 teeth so here we come solid food!! The family has been good and our enjoying the summer. Have fun looking at the pictures I will post, it kinda wraps up what we have been up to.

Easter Fun!!

2009-04-13T16:52:00.001-07:00

Ashlyn and Grandpa

Katelyn posing for a picture with her flower from grandma's flower bed.

Katelyn, Hannah(cousin) and Michel showing us all thier eggs.

Cute Tyler.

Grandpa Lines holding Ashlyn and daddy with Tyler.

Our Family.

Ashlyn at Grandma Chico's

Katelyn at Grandma Chico's

Michel at Grandma Chico's

Easter was alot of fun this year. We went to my mom's house on saturday and had our easter dinner and egg hunt. Grandma took the two older kids for the afternoon to color eggs and hide some for when Ashlyn came. On sunday we went to Grndma and Grnadpa Lines' church and to thier house to eat dinner. Grandpa even arranged to have an easter egg hunt with the grandkids and in some of the eggs he put money. Hannah and Katelyn got the big money they found the two $5 eggs, Michel was lucky enough to find the ones with quarters and $1 bills. Thanks Grandpa the kids had so much fun. It was a great easter.

This Definetly Rattled Daddy!

2009-03-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

If you look close enough you can see the Rattlesnake coiled up ready to strike. Michel was afraid that it was going to jump to where he was standing (about 8ft.) and get him at that point he left.

Well on Saturday Daddy, Katelyn, Michel and our and neighbors went riding quads out by Florence. This is what they found. Scary I know, Daddy thought it would be neat to get off the quad and throw a rock at the Western Diamondback Coon tail Rattlesnake. It was very aggressive and ready to strike, so Michel backed off. Luckily he had his camera phone handy and took this awesome picture. He was so excited that the phone captured such a good picture, he could barely sleep (ha ha). He just wished he had a real camera to use. Oh well I think it turned out pretty cool. After the kids witnessed the snake being so aggressive, Katelyn from that point on rode with her legs up on daddy's. Such a momma's girl because that is exactly what I would do to. They had a blast and can't wait to go again. Thanks Willis ' for going with us you made it all the more fun.

Not so Little anymore!!

2009-03-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Tyler is never alone he always has one of his siblings close by. He is definetly loved!

If you look close enough you can see his 2 bottom teeth.

Well I guess you can say Tyler was never that little. Weighing in at 9lbs 4 oz he was big to start out. Tyler is now 4 months, old I know I feel like it has flown by. He is an awesome baby, very well mannered and always happy. He is in the 75% and above for height, weight, and head circumference. Well here are the stats on our big boy #2.

Weight: 16lbs 6 oz

Height: 25.5 in.

Tyler also cut his first 2 bottom teeth last week. Yippee for mom who is nursing!!! He sure is cute though with two new little choppers.

Happy Birthday ASHLYN!

2009-03-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

Ashlyn up on Katelyn's bunk bed when she is not suppose too!!

One of my favorite pictures.

Playing outside on the trampoline.

Hot summer day with a favorite around here-a popcicle.

Well I know it is late but none the less it was celebrated. What can I say about our little rascal? She is so darn cute I can't get enough of her. She is a great big sister and an awesome little sister. Ashlyn loves playing dolls with Katelyn but also loves digging in the dirt with Michel and pushing dump trucks. I guess that's what happens when your home all day with big brother. Ashlyn you are loved by so many. We can't wait to see what this year brings (hopefully some vocabulary). We love you Ashy!

Any Room at the Zoo for these 6?

2009-01-24T11:47:00.000-08:00

Michel & Alison

Katelyn, Alison, Carson, Michel, Ashlyn, and Marcus. Nice face Boys!

My two Girls.

Don't you just love how Michel is holding the map? He loves things like that, if I were to go look under his bed I would find this map.

All the kids looking at the Golden Eagle.

We have had so much fun having Brent, Lea, Marcus, Alison and Carson in town from Virginia Michel is getting spoiled playing with his only boy cousins. We decided we would take our wild animals to see some other wild animals. I was apprehensive to go because of the baby but Tyler did great in fact all the kids did great. At one point all the oldest kids were in the strollers and the youngest were all walking. It has been a couple years since we have gone so it was nice to go with the cousins. Maybe one day they will move back to the homeland that way Michel won't be the only one at family parties. We love you guys!!

10 Years and 4 kids Later.

2009-01-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

WOW has it really been 10 years since me and Michel took the plunge?? Time has truly flown by. I can honestly say they have been the best 10 years I have experienced. So many exciting things have taken place since we said "I DO". We now have 4 beautiful children, I still can't believe I have 4. We have lived in 2 homes, and one not so great, cockroach infested apartment. Me and Michel have experienced many challenges along the way as well. We have lost 4 Grandparents, both my grandmas, as well as Michel's grandpas. But the hardest loss for me was the loss of my father 2 yrs ago. If it were not for Michel I could not have gotten through that dark and trying time in my life. He has been there for me every step of the way. He is an amazing father to the kids and supporter to me. I am grateful that I have been so blessed to have Michel in my life, here on earth and through the eternities. As I look back on our wedding pictures I still can clearly remember that day, I can also remember what it felt like to have a waist!! I am excited to see what the next 10 yrs will bring (hopefully in 10 yrs I will get my waist back). Michel I love you, You mean the world to me and the children. What more can I ask for, you are a hard worker which has allowed me to stay home with the kids and try to be the mother that I strive to be. Thank you for giving me all I have ever wanted and more.

BABY, It's Cold Outside!!

2009-01-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

The finished product.

Daddy and Ashlyn

Katelyn trying to build her snowman.

My Boys. What a handsome group!

Michel and his BIG snowball.

Well we decided to take the kids to the snow, they had a blast. Big Boy decided he wanted to make a snowman and started rolling a ball of snow and we were so surprised that it got so big. Katelyn was a little jealous so she started her own. Well Ashlyn she played for a little bit but decided it would be more fun staying in the car with mommy and Tyler. Snow is so pretty we were glad we finally got some of the white stuff. It almost makes me want to take the plunge and go skiing, it has only been 5yrs or so. But I think I will wait until Tyler is a little older. It sure is nice to see Arizona in a different light.

SURPRISE! SURPRISE!

2008-12-21T19:56:00.000-08:00

The Birthday girl with her work of art.

All of Katelyn's primary friends: Carli, Jessica, Ellie, Maddie, Maggie, Abby, and Katelyn.

Katelyn opening her present.

Wake up sleepy head!!

We always decorate there door/room on there birthday.

Well my oldest turned 7! WOW! do I feel like time has just flown by. I feel like it was just yesterday we got the call to come into the hospital . Now I have 4 kids and don't know where the time has gone. Seven years ago on Dec 13, 2001, Katelyn Elizabeth Lines was born weighing 9lbs. 2oz. with bright orange hair! What an awesome day. Let's fast forward 7 yrs. this year Katelyn kept begging me to have a friend party and I just didn't want to commit to it with the baby and all. However I had a great idea. I thought it would be neat to have a surprise party for her. I was only inviting the girls from primary and thought it would be fun to do a breakfast/morning party. I delivered the invitations to all the mom's and the plan was set. We were to pick up the girls from their houses and take them to dunkin donuts (Katelyn's favorite). After we picked out our donuts we would go back to our house and eat them and decorate gingerbread houses. I woke Katelyn up early and got her all ready of course she stayed in her pj's but she got to open 1 present and it was a pair of boots. Katelyn did not want to wear her pajamas I kept telling her other kids will probably be wearing thiers since it was early and a donut shop. I can not tell you the look on Katelyn's face when she realized the surprise, it was priceless. We picked up our first girl and Katelyn still had no clue, she asked "mom why are we at Maggie's house?" I said "Oh I just have to pick something up real quick." As soon as she saw Maggie come out her door with her pj's on and a present in her hand, I think she started to catch on. I opened the door to let Maggie in the car and Katelyn's face was one of confusion. Once I got in the car Maggie asked "who's house is next?" At that point Katelyn had the biggest grin on her face. She realized that she was having a party, she was so excited. Katelyn has been blessed with a great group of girls to go to church with there were six girls total. It was such a fun party the girls had fun decorating the gingerbread houses and playing in the backyard. Of course a birthday would not be complete if she didn't have her family party. We had most of all the aunts, uncles and cousins and of course grandparents over to our house that sat. night. Thanks to all who came to celebrate with us. Words can't really express how much I love Katelyn. She is such an awesome girl. She makes friends with everyone she meets. Katelyn is a thinker she is always thinking of something, I can look at her and tell she is thinking of the conversation we just had. She loves school and is excelling very well, we are very proud of her. Katelyn always wants to play with her little sister Ashlyn, sometimes however Ashlyn gets into the things Katelyn does not want her into. Katelyn has been a big helper with Tyler always wanting to help out when I need her to. Katelyn sometimes says that I don't take care of her the way I take care of Ashlyn and Tyler. I tell her it is because they are babies and they need mommy to take care of them, I tell her I take care of you in different ways. I guess she will always be my baby who will always want me to take care of her, which I am ever so grateful for. Katelyn I know I don't probably tell you enough or show you enough but I love you so much. You are my best friend and I love sharing all my jewelry with you. We are very proud of you and all that you have accomplished this year and can't wait to see how much you will grow this upcoming year. You are beautiful in the eyes of your Heavenly Father both inside and out, and especially to your mom and dad. Happy Birthday Katelyn.

I Know I Know....

2008-11-25T15:00:00.000-08:00

Tyler at 3wks. Who does he look like??

A lazy sunday afternoon. Of course as of Nov. 30 we will be in church at this time-we start going at 2pm-YUCK!!!!

We love this picture of Ashlyn. She has Michel's helmet on and it is on backwards.

Ever since I brought Tyler home Ashlyn has been infatuated with her dolls and stuffed animals. Here she thinks Tyler's swing is hers.

This picture is of Tyler today just 1day shy of 4wks old.

It has only been what 4 wks since my last entry? I don't understand how all you guys can write every other day or even every week. I guess I just don't have that much time or I am not as invested as others, I wish I was. Well Tyler is about 4 wks old and can I tell how lucky I am to have such an awesome baby. He is sooo good. We don't hear much from him other than to let me know he is hungry. He is on a pretty good schedule. Tyler will sleep for about 3 hrs then be up for about 1-2 hrs and then go back down for another 3. I still have yet to train him on sleeping thru the night but I just have to keep telling myself that he is only 4wks. Hopefully if he is like my others by time he is 7-8 wks I will be back to sleeping a straight 7-8hrs. I still can't figure out who he looks most like but his mannerisms are just like Michel was so mellow and happy all the time. Ashlyn has adjusted so well to Tyler. I did not expect this from her. I was ready for a battle but she has been so good with him. Of course the other kids have been awesome as well and Michel can't get enough of his younger brother. Our family has been so blessed to have Tyler in our home he is alot of fun for everyone. Now if I can keep my kids healthy and not bring every kind of sickness home it will be a good winter. Well hopefully you will here more from me soon. Happy Thanksgiving!!

IT'S A BOY!!!!

2008-11-02T09:18:00.001-08:00

The proud new Daddy. Michel was so excited to have another boy in the family. Now he can say he has two sons what an awesome thing.

I don't know if Ashlyn knows what exactly is going on. She will be a great big sister.

Michel kept saying when he got there "It's a guy". Of course Michel knew it was going to be a boy because once my mom told him what I had had he says he knew that because Heavenly Father told him it was a boy. How neat.

Katelyn's smile says it all she is so excited. What a helper she will be I am so lucky to have her.

Tyler William Lines

9 lbs. 4 oz.

21.5 inches

Well I am sure alot of you have heard we had a bouncing baby boy on Wednesday Oct. 29 at 11:38 am. Everything went well. The hospital called and bumped us back to early Wed morning at around 2:30 am so by time we got there and got settled we finally stated on the pitocin at around 6 am and progressed fairly quickly (for me at least) there were no complications and the delivery went textbook. We are very greatful for the doctors and nurses who helped be comfortable and have a great experience. We named the baby Tyler William Lines. William after my dad's middle name. He is a very good baby and only makes noises when needing to eat. Little Michel can't get enough of him and is so excited to finally have a brother. Ashlyn is doing fairly well but I will give it a few weeks and then she will realize that the baby is staying. Katelyn is a BIG help she is always willing to get me what I need. She will make a great mom someday. It was so exciting to have Tyler be a surprise it made it so much fun to anticipate what we were having, I would highly recommend it. I just want to thank my wonderful husband Michel I could not have had the good experience without knowing that he was at home taking such good care of the kids. My house was clean my laundry was washed and put away and my shower was scrubbed. Of course I let the shower get that way hoping he would clean it. But thank you Michel you did awesome. You always think your household could not go on without you but when we are put in these situations it makes you realize how much our husbands are capable of. I am very lucky and thank my Heavenly Father daily for such a blessing in my life. Your the best Michel. Thanks to all who have visited and sent there congrats.

Finally. The real question is: Boy or Girl??

2008-10-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

Well I got news that I will be scheduled for an induction on Tues. Oct. 28 at 9:00 pm. Yes I said 9 pm it made the most sense to have my kids at home asleep rather than figuring out where to put them during the day. Let's face who really sleeps in the hospital anyway. Hopefully the labor will go quickly and by that I mean less than 10hrs. We are really excited to find out if this is a boy or a girl. We figured this is one really good surprise in life that is worth the wait. I will post what we have as soon as I can, I guess I can have Michel try and do it but I doubt it. Wish me luck and people keep asking me what do I think this baby is and I can honestly say I have no idea. I guess I never wanted to get my hopes up one way or another. We will post hopefully in a few days.

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY MICHEL!!

2008-09-20T15:08:00.000-07:00

Tanner, Michel, Joseph, and of course Ashlyn enjoying the slip and slide.

Michel has his game face on he really wanted to hit someone with the water balloon.

Michel trying to hit the pinata.

Michel and his cousins singing happy birthday to him again.

This picture of daddy at Fiddlesticks concentrating of the put he has to make to win the game. Love it!!

What to say when your son turns 5? Michel is such an amazing big boy I am at a loss for words. I love him more each day as he discovers new things and learns new facts. We started Michels birthday weekend out going Goofy Golfing at Fiddlesticks (Michel loves Gooofy Golf). On Sat. he had about five little friends over and they played in the backyard on the slip-n-slide and had a huge water balloon fight. After the friend party Michel had all his grandmas, grandpa, aunts, uncles and cousins over for his family party what fun he had thanks to all who made it for his special day. Here is just a few facts about Michel. Michel was born on September 14, 2003 at 9:50 p.m.. Michel got his nick name right when he was born weighing 9lbs. 5oz. and was 21 in. long. He was always a chubby baby hence the big boy nickname. Michel always topped the charts and continues to do so the drs. anticipate him to be about 6ft or taller. He did not get his height from my side it is definitely from his fathers side, even tough his daddy stands shorter than all his younger brothers at an average 5'10'' tall. Michel is an eager learner he always want to make letter books and do homework(I am sure that will all change when he actually starts kindergarten next year). His latest game is to play hide and seek with Ashlyn he will go hide and then yell "Ashlyn come find me" and she will run all through the house looking for him. Of course Michel always hides in the same spot so Ashlyn knows exactly where to look for him and he always gets mad when she finds him. Michel absolutely loves NASCAR and now has a total of 8 big nascars he stores neatly under his bed like a parking lot. He also loves Corvettes another love he got from the Lines side. Whenever there is a NASCAR Race on t.v. he will always sit and watch it with daddy and bring his cars out to race along with it. I asked Michel a few questions of what his favorite things are and this is his response:

Favorite Movie: "Cars"
Favorite Food: Spiral Macaroni and Cheese
Favorite Color: Blue and White (his favorite because Kurt Busch's nascar is this color-don't tell Grandma Lines he has that car she doesn't quit care for him)
Favorite Snack: Granola Bites
Favorite Story: "Miss Nelson is Missing"
Favorite Dinner Mommy cooks: Hotdogs
Favorite Activity: Playing memory games
Favorite Activity to do with Daddy: Wash the cars
Favorite Activity to do Mommy: go to the store and buy a toy.
Favorite Activity to do with Katelyn: Play school and make letter books
Favorite Activity to do with Ashlyn: Play hide and go seek
Favorite Cartoon: Tom and Jerry

That is just a few facts about Michel that describes him as a 5 year old. Michel is a great big brother and little brother to his two sisters. Our family has been blessed for 5 wonderful years to have Michel in our family he continues to amaze us and make us proud in the decisions he makes. We can't wait to see how this year goes and to see all he can accomplish. We love you Michel and hope you had a great birthday.

FROGS, FROGS and More FROGS!!

2008-09-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

Looking at all the Frogs they found

Well the last few days Big Boy has taken up a new interest (of course so has Ashlyn). Any guesses? Yep with all the rain these last few days our backyard has been saturated with tons of baby frogs (at least 20 for right know). Now these frogs are the size of nickels if even that big and they are really quite cute. Michel goes out to the backyard in the morning and will just find the frogs hopping in the grass. We keep telling them they may not survive being held captive in a plastic bin but he gets so sad when we mention having to release them back into the wild. He loves these frogs and he has built quite a little fortress for them. Ashlyn has of course taken a liking to these frogs as well because as you should all know by now where ever Michel goes Ashlyn is not to far behind and at the mention of these frogs she gets all excited and runs to the backyard. Thanks to the rain for occupying my children with there new found love for frogs.

Daddy's Little Girl

2008-09-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Ashlyn enjoying a popsicle after a long day of yard work.

Ashlyn all sweaty and sticky from being outside and her popsicle.

I love this picture of them when we were camping this past July, Michel went looking for bones and Ashlyn followed. Michel was able to find Ashlyn a bone she was so proud of that gross thing!!

Even though Ashlyn is a daddy's girl she still loves playing with all of Katelyn's dolls. Katleyn is so happy that she finally is getting big enough to like kinda of the same things she does.
Oh what would daddy do without Ashlyn? She is my first child who has mostly preferred to hang out with daddy then me. (No complaints) The other kids of course love their daddy but Ashlyn has a little connection with him. Once he gets home every night she will immediately go to the window and look to see if his truck is in the garage. As soon as he is in the house she runs to him and then goes to the back door thinking he is going to let her out to play with him. Ashlyn will then follow him around the house while I get dinner on the table and she will wait outside the bathroom door crying while he uses the restroom. The best part about daddy's little angel is every time he will do his yard work she will follow him around the whole backyard as he prunes the trees and mows the grass. Ashlyn is an outdoor girl she does not mind the heat and will always follow anyone who is going outside. Ashlyn also has a special relationship with her older brother Michel, she is his little shadow. Michel loves her and is always willing to play with her outside and is very protective of her. What would I do without the men in my life to keep my little Ashlyn occupied? Ashlyn is a very special little girl who's life is about to change when we have another little one in the house, I know she will be a great big sister to her new little brother or sister.

Hooray for Katelyn!!

2008-09-08T20:31:00.001-07:00

It is no surprise that we as parents recognize Katelyn as being a loving and caring person but it is really nice when others recognize it as well. Katleyn was chosen by her teacher Mrs. Cummard to be the first Student of the Month for school year. Mrs. Cummard sent a little note on why she felt Katelyn deserved this award and I would like to brag a little bit about Katelyn and quote what she said (bear with me).

"Katelyn is a very sweet and polite student at all times. She arrives at school each day with a big smile and a wonderful attitude. She enjoys school and learning. Katelyn is already a wonderful reader. She tries her best in everything she does. It is a pleasure to have Katelyn in my class this year."

Thank you Mrs. Cummard. Katelyn adores her teacher and loves the first grade. Katelyn was called up at the assembly by the principle and was featured on the Coyotes News that morning. She was very excited to get this award, what a great way to start out the new year. Way to go Katelyn we knew you were special and we are glad when others recognize it as well. We love you keep up the good work.

Wow we actually got a watermelon!!

2008-08-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

Every season we plant watermelons they take a really long time to grow and the last couple years we always pick them way to early. We have read and read about when to pick the watermelons and every time we do they are always white inside. So this year when we picked the first watermelon we were apprehensive because we did not want to waste the watermelon and have it not be ripe. We toke a chance and it paid off!! We were so excited to see red inside the melon. It smelled so good and tasted even better then we imagined it would. I love watermelon and am so excited to have so many in our garden (about 25 growing right now) I just hope our luck continues and we will get another good one. If anyone has grown melons you know that it pretty much takes over your whole garden that is why we have so many. It is so rewarding to be able to grow something and eat it and enjoy it especially for the kids.

First Day of School

2008-08-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Katelyn ready to go.

Of course Ashlyn had to be in the picture she thought she was going somewhere.

Katelyn in her new classroom.

Getting off the bus. She loves to ride the bus with all her friends.

Well another school year is upon us and Katelyn could not be more excited. Katelyn entered the first grade on July 28, 2008. Why is it that we always seem to emotional on days like? I guess it is the fact that we are sending our kids into the real world and not our sheltered little world we have created for them. Also that another year has gone by way to fast and we forget how fast time flys and we just want them to stay young forever. However aside from mom's anxieties Katelyn did great and made many new friends. The first day of school she noticed a new girl who has never gone to Desert Mtn before was playing by herself and Katelyn took it upon her self to go and introduce herself and be her friend. I was so proud of her to initiate something like that. Katelyn is always thinking of others. Well we couldn't happier with Katelyn and the choices she makes when she is away from mom and dad. What an adventure we are embarking upon as parents of a first grader, we are excited to see where this takes us.

New school Year-New hair do

2008-07-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Katelyn minus her two front teeth-she lost the second one about 2 wks ago. I told her she will be wanting her 2 front teeth for Christmas for sure.
Katelyn with her new haircut and if you look close enough you can see some of her freckles on her nose. Finally something that resembles her mom. I guess the Lines gene isn't so dominate.

Yesterday we had our haircuts for the boys and all through out the day I kept asking Katelyn if she wanted to get her hair cut for the new school starting on Monday. She said yes and we decided to go with just a simply but adorable bob. She will be starting 1st grade on monday and we thought it would be fun to start out with a new hairstyle. She loves it and so do I. We are excited to start a new school year. Good Luck Katelyn.

Boys will be boys

2008-07-24T12:47:00.000-07:00

Michel enjoying a bullet Popsicle.
Ashlyn wondering where her Popsicle is. Of course I gave her one she just had already eaten hers and I think she was looking for handouts.

Michel had our neighbor boy over yesterday. Parker has been our neighbor since we moved in about 4 yrs ago he is 1 month older than Michel and they play so well. Parker is an awesome friend to Michel he is always so nice and always willing to do whatever Michel wants. Katelyn also enjoys playing with Parker somehow she has been able to wrap little Parker around her little finger. Sometimes she has even talked him into playing with all her girlie toys. I sure Parker's dad won't appreciate that but he is just so nice to please. Parker has an older Brother Tanner who is about 2 mo older then Katelyn and he just as awesome a friend as Parker. Our family has been very fortunate to live by the Willis family they have become dear friends of ours and we can count on them for anything any time of day. Every time Michel is doing something he always has a little shadow her name is Ashlyn!! Especially if Michel is outside playing she is always right behind him. Even with Parker over Ashlyn still wanted to follow her big brother around and they played so well. I am grateful my kids have awesome friends to play with ones that have the same values and are kind and loving people.

Camping

2008-07-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

Well over the fourth of July weekend Daddy took the following week off to go camping. We left on the 6th and went up to where Daddy always goes hunting of course that is when he ever gets drawn. It was a fun few days. Grandpa and Grandma Lines met us up there on Sunday and spent the day with us. Grandpa let us use his quad and the kids had a blast, especially Big boy. If Michel wasn't walking around he was sitting on the quad waiting for a ride. He was the perfect riding companion it didn't matter how fast you would go he would just hold on and enjoy the ride. Katelyn on the other hand preferred you go a little bit slower. Ashlyn also enjoyed it once you put her on it she would not want to get off. Mommy also enjoyed it, especially when daddy would take the kids for a long ride it gave me time to enjoy my book and time with Ashlyn. Daddy took Katelyn and Michel up to a look out tower and had a pretty view. It is always fun to get away with just the family the weather was good even when it did rain. We will always remember this camping trip it was Ashlyn's first and Mommy's last for awhile since we will be having a newborn within the next few months. Of course I am never opposed to having daddy take the kids for a quick getaway.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-07-23T09:54:00.001-07:00

Not so Happy Fourth!!

2008-07-09T20:54:00.000-07:00

Look what happen to my pretty car! As you can see the lift gate will not open and we are not sure if we will have to replace it or not.
Another angle-damage wasn't to bad but some will have to be repainted and that is where it will be tricky.
Yikes!!! We are lucky the other people had good insurance and it is in the shop as we speak, So mommy gets to drive a minivan around for the next wk. I miss my Yukon already.

Our Fourth of July started out with a bang!! Let's start at the beginning. A few weeks ago our family decided we were going to go to the Diamondbacks game. We figured it was an air conditioned venue, free D-backs dog, free ticket to the zoo, and what we thought would be a great firework display and plus the kids have never been to a game so we said why not. We invited all our extended family but only Grandma and Grandpa Lines and Melissa were able to come,(we left Ashlyn home with Grandma Chico). We picked everyone up in our car and off we went. Grandma Lines wanted to get there early so she can get the free t-shirt. As we all were chatting away in the car we were approaching the exit ramp to the stadium when I noticed all the cars were suddenly at a stand still it was difficult to see because we had a big SUV directly in front of us who was not slowing down I was able to see around it from my point of view and told Michel to slow down. Luckily Michel being the good driver that he is was able to stop in time to not hit the car in front of us who stopped so abruptly. The worst feeling is sitting there waiting to see if the people behind you were paying enough attention and if they are able to stop or not. Yep so you guessed it, the only bang we heard that night came from the car behind us at about 35 mph right into the driver side bumper. I knew the people behind us were going to hit us and when it did it was so awful. Thankfully everyone was fine and no one got hurt. We pulled off the freeway and into the nearest gas station and we got out not wanting to see the damage. If you know anything about Michel he takes very good care of his cars, we had just washed it that day and we were commenting on how nice it looks all clean and shiny. The other people were also okay and felt really bad for what had happened. It was unavoidable I think but that doesn't make it any better. There car had more damage then ours and thank goodness it was a car and not a big SUV. Well after the cops came got our info and sited the other driver we were finally on our way to the much anticipated game, it was hard to get in the spirit of things after the accident but we had the kids that were still so excited to go. Unfortunately for Grandma Lines she did not get her free t-shirt we arrived at the game in the 4th inning. We hiked (pretty much the nose bleeds) to our seats and were ready for a good game. The game was slow and the kids got bored and kept asking when do the fireworks start? The game finally ended around 9:45 pm and they announced that this certain area of seats will not be able to see the show so they were able to move to the field. At 10 pm the lights turned off and the music started we were all so excited the kids have never really seen a fireworks show up close like this and I was so excited for them. They shot off the first firework and we couldn't see it, we thought oh it was only the first one, they told us the fireworks would be shot over the Chase Field sign and we had a great view of that a we figured it was an accident that those got shot off there. Plus when they announced the sections that would not be able to see the show ours was not included. However the next one came and the same thing happened and then the next ones came and they all were directly above us, only we couldn't see anything because we were under the roof and it completely covered the whole show. What a complete disappointment. If we would have known we were not able to see we would have started for home and watched them outside the stadium. As the show went on it was difficult to leave because the stadium was dark and we had alot of stairs to go down and it was to dark to really see them. Let's just say I will probably never forget this fourth of july I think I was more mad then the kids. So let's recap: our nice, pretty Yukon gets hit, grandma Lines misses out on her free t-shirt, the D-backs lose the game, and the fireworks show was a complete bust, oh and we sat in the parking garage for 1 hr not moving an inch!!! I do have to say the kids did great and like I said there was probably more complaining out of me then them. I hope next year will be better one of these days our kids will see a real firework show.

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2008-07-01T22:24:00.000-07:00

Well today is my dad's birthday and as I was laying in bed tonight memories came flooding back to me about my dad. This seems to happened often, it is when I lay in bed at night waiting to fall asleep, this is when I think of my dad. Not to say I don't think about him every hour of every day but it is difficult when you have you kids constantly around to distract you. These last few minutes of the day when it is the quietest is when I reflect on what an amazing father I had. December 22, 2006 I lost my father and I guess you can say it was unexpected. It was the hardest most painful thing I have gone through thus far in my life. I don't want this entry to bum anyone out that is not my intention. I was not sure I even wanted to make an entry regarding the subject but as I layed there tonight the tears slowly came and I felt that this was the only way to really honor my dad. My dad would have been 61 today and he would have probably taken the day off from work and him and my mom would've come out to see the kids gone to lunch with us and went somewhere where he would have gotten a free birthday dinner. Or he could have been in the white mountains fishing since he hated the heat so badly. I have so many good memories of my dad when I was growing up. I remember friday nights would usually mean movie night we would go to rent a movie and have popcorn and root beer floats for dinner. Summer meant we would rent a cabin somewhere in the white mountains and wake up hours before the sun would come up so we can drive to the perfect fishing spot and get there before the sun came up. Every year we would take a big trip somewhere (driving of course) and it was usually to Sacramento CA. to see my grandparents. We would not just drive straight through but we would always have to make all the tourist stops along the way. If it were not for my dad I would have seen some of the prettiest of our Heavenly Fathers creations. I have so many more memories I just cannot list them all, but some of my more recent ones are my dad with my 2 kids Katelyn and Michel. Wow what a grandpa my dad was to them he was the grandpa I wish I had for myself. Always willing to drop everything to babysit or to spend time with them. Everytime the kids would see him he always had a toy of a treat for them. Katelyn's would often be a polly pocket of some kind and Michel would often be truck or car. Dad wouldn't stop at just buying them the toys you would always see him at the table with Katelyn as she pulled out all her polly pockets and her big castle and set them on the table to play with, he was always right there playing with her. Or he would be playing cars with Michel in the toy room. Everything stoped when the kids were over they were the center of his life and he did anything and everything for them. My kids still talk about all the fun grandpa was and the tickling he would do to them. I am so glad he has left a lasting impression of himself as someone who loved them and they felt his love. My dad was a good father, grandpa, and husband to my mom and I am so greatful that I had him in my life for so long and that 2 of my kids knew there grandpa. I know I will see him again because he made the choice to come back into the church when my mom said she wanted to see the LDS missionaries and be baptized. We were sealed in the Mesa AZ. temple to be an eternal family. To that I will be forever greatful. I am thankful to my dad for raising me in a good home where I knew the church was a priority and that he had a testimony of it and all that it stood for. I never wanted for anything he could not give me no matter how much he had to sacrifice. My dad was a truly amazing man and I miss him every minute I am honored to be his daughter and strive everyday to live up to his example. Happy Birthday Dad. Love Shanon

Lazy Days of Summer

2008-06-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

Just a portion of the garden

Ashlyn trying out swiming for the first time isn't she cute!!

Katelyn doing her tricks and Ashlyn running in cirlces trying not to get bounced off!

Michel playing with his tractor(nice elbow pad on your ankle Michel-Katelyns princess one of course)

Ashlyn trying to climb the slide-Thanks daddy for teaching her that trick.

Well it has been a awhile since I wrote My life is just not that exciting I guess. Well our family garden has grown so much we will soon be bombarded with zucchini, and yellow squash. We soon will not know what to do with all of it! Everyday the kids go outside with daddy and see any new developments. I think daddy gets more excited then the kids do. Well a couple days ago we went swimming and Ashlyn got in for the first time not for to long though. Katelyn loves to swim and asks everyday where can she go swimming. Michel on the other hand could care less ever since he took swim lessons 2 years a go and the teacher made him jump off the diving board and swim to the side that one instant traumatized him forever I am afraid. We are working on it though. After dinner every night I send the kids outside to play since this is really the only time it gets some what cool. They love to jump on the trampoline and swing and of course Michel loves to play on the dirt with all his dump trucks. Daddy the other day showed Ashlyn how to climb up the slide and ever since she is determined to make it to the top. Thanks Daddy!! Every time we take her off the trampoline or the slide she cries and cries she does not want to come in and go to bed. I know not fair. Summer is going well but I am anxiously waited for school to start the kids are getting bored and want to play with Friends everyday. It has been nice having all the kids home Katelyn is such a big help to me and Michel always entertains Ashlyn. I hope to stay cool as I muddle through this pregnancy in the hottest part of the year-half way done.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-06-04T18:13:00.001-07:00

An Artist in the family!!

2008-06-03T12:55:00.000-07:00

Ashlyn looking at her work of art!

Even after I put the lid on she was showing me how she came to create her masterpiece.

What a cutie!!

Well our family has discovered that one of our children has a secret talent. Last Friday I was trying to work on my blog and I did not her Ashlyn for a minute, Katelyn had a friend over and Michel was off playing in the toy room. Anyway I turned around to find our sweet little Ashlyn with a marker in hand drawing no not on the wall but on the travertine tiled floors. She was having a great time perfecting her new talent. Luckily the marker washed right off but not before I could snap some pictures. Of course when I asked Katelyn or Michel who left the marker out both either denied it or blamed the other. Ashlyn is just a little sweet heart and is turning into such a fun little toddler. She went to her 15 mo. well check-up and know weighs 21 lbs. and 31 inches long wow how fast they grow. We can't wait to see how she will handle the new baby come Oct. 30th (give or take) it should be interesting needless to say she has her way around her with her great brother and sister to grant her every wish. We love you Ashlyn!

Dance Fever!

2008-06-03T09:12:00.001-07:00

What a cutie!
Grandma Chico, Grandma Lines, Katelyn and Great Grandma Lines
What a smile!

Sweet Katelyn
Katelyn with Great Grandma Cluff
Our oldest daughter Katelyn has been dancing since she was 3 yrs old and has enjoyed every minute if it. She has become a great dancer in Ballet and Jazz. This past year she has shown an interest in tumbling and has done outstanding. She went from not being able to do a cartwheel to doing one with perfection and ease ( that is all she does around the house). She was given the challenge of doing a backbend for the recital and was apprehensive at first for fear of falling on her head! We worked on it and worked on it and finally 1 week before recital she did it and made it look very easy. Now she does it with ease. I was so proud of her way to go Katelyn!! She is now working on kicking her legs over I know she can do it. The theme for her recital this year was "Jump, Jive, Twist and Shout" they made it a 60's theme. Katelyn performed in three dances this year one ballet, one jazz, and one tumbling. She did great as usuall we are very proud of her. Katelyn had all her grandmas there with her; Great Grandma Cluff, Great Grandma Lines, Grandma Lines, and Grandma Chico. She is very lucky to have so many grandmas who love to come and support her. Thanks Grandmas!! We love to watch Katelyn dance and look forward to the upcoming years.

A day of Gardening

2008-06-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

Katelyn planting
Katelyn, Michel and Daddy

Michel planting seeds

Every season our family likes to try and plant a garden. It is always a family affair and some what of a tradition for our family. This year we planted some: yellow squash, zuchinni, carrots, snap peas, green beans, and watermelon. The kids and daddy love to see the changes that occur everyday. The kids also enjoy planting the garden as well. We hope to get lots of fruit and vegetables this season and love to share them with family and friends.

Last Day of School

2008-05-29T11:13:00.000-07:00

Michel with Ms. Arleen

Katelyn with Ms. Albright

Well we did it!!! The Lines Family finished there first year of school, Katelyn in kindergarten and Michel in preschool. I am definitely feeling a little older today I never thought I would have a kindergartner let alone a 1st grader. Where has the time gone? It felt like just yesterday she was crawling and learning to take her first steps, not learning to read and do math. Katelyn has accomplished all those things and many more this past year. Katelyn has always scored high in her academics, we are so proud of her and all she has learned and overcome this past year. Katelyn had a memorable year ranging from being chosen for a citizenship award and also being named student of the month for April. Katelyn went to all day kindergarten at Desert Mountain Elementary School, her teacher was Diane Albright. Katelyn made many new friends, and has been a friend to so many she is such a sweet and loving girl to all she meets. She loved riding the bus everyday with her friends and loved eating lunch in the cafeteria. We are very excited for Katelyn to be advancing into the 1st grade we know she will excel there just as she has in kindergarten. Michel however has just completed his first year of preschool at the Little Coyotes located at Queen Creek Elementary. His teacher was Ms. Arleen. Michel has grown up so much this past year, he went from never wanting to leave my side to asking when he gets to go to school. Before school started Michel never showed any interest in doing anything related to school but know he wants to do home work all day long(that will soon change I am sure). Socially Michel has grown into a fun loving young boy who befriends any one he meets. He made some special friends at school that he would often come home and talk about. I kept thinking this is not my little boy the one who would never want to play with friends he would rather play by himself. Wow what a difference a year makes. Mommy and Daddy are proud of both Katelyn and Michel words just can't express. We can't wait to see what the future holds for the future.