Between the Lines

Holly Doll

2012-01-18T22:31:00.000-07:00

Well I have been meaning to blog Holly's months for months now. So here they are. I can't believe how much she has grown.

11 Months

10 Months

9 months

8 Months

7 Months

6 Months

5 Months

4 Months

3 1/2 Months

3 Months

2 Months

1 Month

Holly's arrival

Thankful

2011-12-06T22:46:00.000-07:00

What could be more perfect then listening to Christmas music with my hubby next to me while drinking hot chocolate? Well maybe if a sleigh full of elves rolled up and cleaned my entire house, did my laundry, and did all my Christmas shopping. But right now it is perfect.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my parent's house. My parent's house is seriously a luxury vacation spot. I had the entire weekend of Thanksgiving off from work. That has not happened in years. We had all the traditional Thanksgiving food along with a honey ham and we intruded the Skousens to Theda Lines turkey dressing recipe. I love that stuffing. Luke ate during the preparation and took a nap right before the big meal. Since it was all adults present (I guess I can sort of count my two youngest siblings in that category) we ate on my mom's china. I have secretly always wanted to eat on the china. My Aunt Barbara and Uncle Tanner can down from Idaho. Here are a few of the pictures I snapped.

We had German chocolate cake for my dad's birthday as if we hadn't eaten enough pie.

Yep, love birds.

It just wouldn't be a trip to Hyder unless my pyro build an enormous fire.

I got to go to one of Shanna's basketball games. It made me want to run out on the court and show those girls a thing or two. But then I realized I could only probably run up and down the court 3 times before I was spent. The life of a has been. I enjoyed watching my sister play.

Two Peas in a Pod

2011-11-12T23:58:00.001-07:00

These two babes love each other. Luke drags Holly all over the place. He loves to wake her up from her naps and feed her things she cannot eat. I don't know why but I just love these pictures. If I ever forget I have two babies I just put them both into onsies. It seems to freeze them just for a bit.

These next three tell a typical morning story. You could almost insert any caption. I think it goes something like this:

"Hawee that's my bottle" I don't think you want to drink it.

No you really don't want to drink it.

Holly why?

Halloween

2011-11-12T23:46:00.000-07:00

I love dressing up. I was so happy that I convinced my dear husband to dress up with me exactly 15 minutes before leaving for the church. Costumes thrown together at the last minute always turn out the best.

Ticking Clock

2011-11-12T23:39:00.000-07:00

I know all of my faithful readers, I have given up on my blog. That darn pinterest, perhaps if I looked at it less and devoted that time to blogging. Alas, the moans of a busy girl. Yes I still feel like a little girl playing a grown up game. I come home to a wonderful husband who kisses me everyday and a two year old who also demands his kisses. I have to tell myself all the time that I have two kids. Life has been so busy lately. My latest adventures include some leadership roles which are a little tough for me. I have never considered myself a natural born leader. I am more of the people pleaser and lets face it a push over. I will do everything within my power to avoid confrontation. I am learning the art of delegation and communication.
I got a new calling in church a few months ago which I can finally wrap my head around. I am the Young Women's President in the Tempe Ward. I have such great girls and amazing leaders stacked into my organization that it make my job a breeze. Now that I have a calendar in place for the next few months, I truly feel better about life. They have brought some life back into me. We played volleyball on Wednesday for mutual. The girls had a great time and the 1st Counselor happens to be the Volleyball coach at Westwood High. At the end Chelsi offered to set me some balls to hit. I killed it! It felt so good. I think I even said something like, "Yeah I had two babies". Okay our net was extremely low because of the poor quality, but it was exactly what I needed. A little pick me up and Lisa you got this.
The next area of my life which I rarely expound on is my professional career. I sound so old and drab when I use the word career. I hate to even chalk it up to a career as my professional aspirations are to work 1 day every two weeks and stay home with my children. Let's call it my day job, that seems much lighter. We have been busier then every on the 7th Floor. Our unit has enough beds for 48 patients and it is enormous. I actually gave 7 units of blood products in one day on two different patients. 7 units!! That is absolutely nuts as the patient could have a severe reaction every time a new unit is hung. I have worked for Phoenix Children's for 3 1/2 years now. In the last few weeks I have trained to the Relief Charge Nurse. What is a relief charge you ask? Well it is a fill in for when the 3 regular charge nurses are not scheduled. It is usually not very often, but one of our Charge Nurses broke her wrist and is out on medical leave. So today I was in charge of the floor. I carried the phone and prayed all day long that nothing would happen. I had a fairly decent day filled with some problem solving and creative staffing, but I survived. Thankfully no patients were transferred to the PICU and no one coded.
The other night my kids and husband were sound asleep at 9 o'clock. I had worked that day so my mind still desperately needed a wind down. I sat on my chair reading a book. I started to get annoyed at the clock ticking. I just wanted quiet. Then I thought to myself, when is the last time it was still enough in my house to hear the clock ticking. I was thankful for that little moment. Heavenly Father know our needs and knows what experiences will strengthen us. I am thankful for that little voice that tells me Lisa you got this.

As if crawling isn't enough

2011-09-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

This week I have come to a realization that my baby is growing up. She eats all sort of foods and thankfully no teeth yet. I swear last week she learned to crawl and now she is climbing and pulling up on everything. She just turned 7 months two days ago.

Weddings

2011-09-03T23:06:00.000-07:00

Every time I think about blogging another month has gone by and it seems like I have taken less and less pictures. I had two weeks off work in August and it was wonderful! Ofcourse I forgot my camera on our trip, but here are few snap shots of the festivities. Jacob and Stacey were married in San Diego on August 11th and Tice and Ellen were married August 15th in Mesa. Tice is my cousin that lived in Gilbert, whom Luke adores. Tice would play with Luke for hours in Aunt J's back yard when I was hugely pregnant with Holly. Now Tice is off with his new bride to Provo for school.

At Jake and Stacey's wedding

Tice and Ellen's wedding

For some reason I actually love these pre-pictures of our family. They tell the whole story of our crazies.

Emma. I love this girl! Really this one is funny. (And all of my other nieces I didn't get pictures of.)

Bride and groom (I know, terrible picture)

Luke in suspenders. Yep he loved those.

My Holly Doll is so sweet. I am so glad she picked our family.

A relatively decent bride and groom shot.

Cousins

2011-08-04T22:30:00.001-07:00

All these girls are 4 months apart! From oldest to youngest: Clara(January), Holly (February), Isabella & Gabriella (April) We are just missing Capri! She was born in March!!! She's represented here by the blanket :)

My sister in law posted this adorable picture on facebook. Holly is so lucky to have not 1 but 5 girl cousins within 4 months of her age. Not to mention two more boy cousins in the Lines family that sandwich all these girls. Not all are from the Lines side, Amy Rose was born
on May 5 for a Skousen cousin. We are so excited to meet her next week at Jake and Stacey's wedding!!!!

Baby Food

2011-07-12T23:02:00.000-07:00

Oh the joys of introducing a new baby to solid food. I for one think it is a royal pain and usually more work than it is worth. I have made a valiant effort in feeding Holly rice cereal this week. So far so good as we have mixed in applesauce and banana. She mostly tries to suck her thumb and tongue out food.

Talking Babies

2011-07-10T22:14:00.003-07:00

Luke is a little jibber jabber tot these days. He is like a sponge and everyday he adds more to his vocabulary. He is even starting to build phrases. His most popular is "I want it" and "Good job". He also gets my attention by calling "Wisa and Honey". Today he called me "Wo ver" after Eric summoned me from the parking lot with a "lover". He smiled like a silly boy. He loves to copy anything we say.

Holly has found her voice as well, so I have two babies that talk and I have no idea what they are saying. Here are a couple of videos. Please don't mind my obnoxious mamma voice.

Luke is obsessed with a Sesame Street video we have called "Learning about letters". He loves the letter O.

Dear Blog

2011-06-28T23:05:00.000-07:00

I can't believe what a hypocrite I have turned into. I have to confess I get annoyed when people don't update there blogs for months. Then there is the make up blog post which is supposed to cover months of no updates. I know I know, that is exactly what I am doing right now. I could blame my lack of blogging on many things but having two kids under 18 months and working two 12 hours shifts a week should cover most of my excuses. I have really enjoyed spending time with and playing with my children. And I have enjoyed work lately. We moved from an old dingy building with two patients per room to a posh brand new floor with private rooms and all the bells and whistles. Life is great.

So here are a few random things that triggered the I should blog that thought.

I got my eyebrows waxed the other day. The lady doing then had penciled on eyebrows. I was very nervous but ironically she did the best job I have every had.

I could probably devote an entire blog post listing the food items Luke has stuck up his nose. Seriously this kid has a nose problem. If it can fit up there he has shoved it up his nose. Peas, raisins, craisins, sauage, bread crumbs, oh and my favorite he rips off tiny pieces of the wipees and puts those up his nose too. At night when he goes to sleep he twirls his blanket on his nose, weird. I don't know what to do about that.

We bought the Costco box of wipes. I rounded up 6 open packages today. I guess we just pull out a new one every time. Sheesh.

My beloved Kitchen-aid broke! Apparently more that 6 cups of contents is full for the mixer if you add anymore ingredients no warranty. Eric was making bread with the same recipe my mom has used for years in her kitchen-aid.

Our new floor in Care Area 7 has a cozy lactation room, complete with a comfy recliner and hospital grade breast pump. Before the move pumping was a royal pain at work in a tiny room used for storage. Thank you for accommodating nursing mothers.

We haven't done anything too exciting the last couple of months, so here are a few snapshots of our normal.

Go Dog. Go

Isabella, Holly, & Gabriella

Yes, he figured this out on his own.

Best Sunday picture so far. I have about a thousand of Luke mauling Holly.

Another attempt at a Sunday shot.

(Before the stated eyebrow wax, yikes)

Crafting vs. Construction

2011-04-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

I love love this video. President Uchtdorf puts it so simply. We women love to create and need to create. I have had a few projects I have been wanting to finish. With the two kiddos it is difficult and almost near impossible to find time to sit down and create. I told Eric all I wanted to do was to sit down for 3 hours and do something uninterrupted. He laughed and thought I was a little silly, but like a loving husband helped me fulfill my request. He even extended a helping hand. Women have an inner need and desire to create and I think men have an equal desire which also involves using tools (especially power tools in our case we'll count the stapler) and getting their hands dirty. I should have known that a simple bow board project would have brought out the construction worker Eric. Eric worked at his father's roofing business for years installing suspended ceilings. He happily got out all of his tools and helped me build the sturdiest reinforced bow board. I had to realize I couldn't tell him how to measure things and put in screws. I decided to save that heated conversation for when we remodel a bedroom or bathroom down the road. I had a sewing mindset and wanted to use patterns and templates, while Eric trusted his measuring tape and eye balling skills. I must say he did a wonderful job so without further adieu Holly's bow board.

I should have taken a picture of the back. This baby is not falling apart. Construction lesson number 1, you can never secure your work too much. Not reinforcing enough only cost more money later.

My man and all the tools.

My mom gave me some of the extra fabric from the crib bedding so it matches. I need to pay proper tribute to my mother for making Holly's adorable bedding. Here is her quilt.

I also made all the bows and hair clips on the board. With Etsy for inspiration and a YouTube tutorial you can make anything. Here is a link to the ribbon rose tutorial. I had to watch it several times and burn my fingers with a glue gun many times to produces these flowers. Note to self next time I buy a 2 dollar glue gun, buy the low temp one.

Does Wheat Really Stay Good for 30 years?

2011-04-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

Well at least 22 years. Thanks to some wheat from Momma Lines from 1989 and a wheat grinder for Christmas from Momma Skousen we made some delicious wheat bread . I was a little skeptical about the wheat but once ground up, it yielded superb wheat flour. So stalk up for the next 30 years. :)

2 months old

2011-04-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

Holly is growing up so fast. At her 2 month appointment she weighed 11 lbs 10 oz and was 24 inches long. Putting her above the 95 percentile for height and 50 to 75th percentile for weight. Our kids have small heads and she is in the 30th percentile for head circumference.

She is starting to coo and smile. She loves her older brother since he is always in her face or next to her in the bouncer. Luke brings her toys and Cookie Monster attacked her face yesterday. Once again we are working on being "soft." Holly has gotten into a beautiful routine and sleeping 6-8 hour chunks at night. Now I know because I wrote that she is sleeping great, I am doomed for a few more sleepless nights.

Welcome, Welcome Sabbath Morning

2011-04-12T14:03:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful Sunday we had this week. I felt so spiritually feed and revived. I loved listening to conference this past week and being uplifted by our prophet and apostles. My favorite talk was by Elder Richard G. Scott called The Eternal Blessings of Marriage. This last Saturday we had a wonderful baptism in our ward. The spirit was so sweet. Then going to church was like the cherry on top. I love my family and the joy that the gospel brings to our lives. I know that we can be together forever.

Holly is 8 weeks old and wearing a dress my mother saved from when I was a baby. My Grandpa Smith bought the dress for me.

These last two are pictures of me. Below is the day I came home from the hospital.

Lip Quiver

2011-04-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

How can you say no to that face? Holly girl makes the best pout faces. I just have to pick her up and squeeze her tight. She loves being held and has a internal sensor when she is laid horizontal even when fast asleep.

Sleeping Beauty

2011-04-01T22:57:00.000-07:00

Luke sleeps in the most awkward and uncomfortable looking positions. He must have the blanket covering his face when he goes to sleep. During his sleep the blanket usually ends up completely around his head. I check that he is still breathing before I go to bed and remove him from his tangled blanket. What a silly man. He happily says "Night night" and covers his face.

Wahoo in his big boy bed. He goes right to bed at night.

During the day, we try the toddler bed first if he plays instead of naps he get the crib. (Check out my adorable bedding for Holly. My mom made sweet sheets that match too but we swapped it out the night Luke threw up twice. My mom is amazing and I love my bedding.)

This was at Holly's blessing. He was so ready for a nap after church and the blessing. He climbed out of the bed and wedged himself under the pack and play. Poor guy had a dirty diaper, hence the pants half off.

I found this beauty on the camera a few days later. I was tired and my little Holly loves to curl up and fall asleep on you.

Holly's Blessing Day

2011-03-22T15:29:00.001-07:00

Holly was given a name and blessing on Sunday at the Lines home. It was lovely to have our parents and grandparents there. There was a sweet spirit there. I am so happy Heavenly Father sent us a beautiful baby girl.

Lisa Jo, Trixie Jo, Holly Jo and Grandma Smith

Happy St. Patty's Day

2011-03-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

As you can probably tell, I am furiously trying to catch up my blog before my children wake up. I like to look back and remember little moments in my blog. So here is a sweet one from our recent trip to Yuma. I was trying to sneak in the last ounce of sleep when Eric walked in a mumbled something. I couldn't hear what he had said and it had been a rather long night with Holly. I said, "What you're bringing me breakfast in bed? That's great." Then I rolled over and tried to go back to sleep. With some encouragement from his mother and some finishing touches from a women (the note and large strawberries) my husband brought me breakfast in bed.

Here I am in all my glory and Holly is the little fur-ball in the corner.

Déjà vu

2011-03-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

I took a picture of Holly in the bath the other day and thought I swear I've seen this picture before. Take a guess which one is Holly and which is Luke.

1 month old!

2011-03-22T14:30:00.002-07:00

Our little Holly Jo joined our family a month ago. She has been a good baby sleeping a 5-6 hour chunk at night, but that is after about an hour or longer of crying between 10-11 pm. She consistently is fussy at that time. Last night she slept 7 hours with minimal fussiness! She is starting to smile more and more. She is much more petite than Luke and eats a whole lot less. She weighs 9 1/2 lbs and in the 50th percentile for weight. She is 22 inches long and in the 75th percentile for height.

15 months

2011-03-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a month post about Luke in a while. He is now almost 16 months, but here are his stats from the doctors office. He weighs 25 lbs and 6 oz putting him in the 50-70th percentile for weight. He is 33.3 inches and above the 95th percentile for height. His vocabulary is expanding rapidly, sometimes he just mimics you and has no idea what he just said. He said "useful thing" a while ago copying Tice. He is silly and he knows it. He calls himself "Guke" and "Gukie". I love my little Guke.

2 is better than 1

2011-03-08T14:28:00.000-07:00

What should I be doing right now while both my kids are sleeping? Probably the endless pile of laundry and burp cloths. This golden time only comes once a day and sometimes one of the kiddies doesn't make it happen. So I am blogging.
Life has been fun and hectic with two children. Luke is learning to be nice to Holly. However, he did sit on her today which warranted a large spanking and a long time out. There is quite a bit of crying at my house. I think 4 years as a pediatric nurse has helped me phase out crying. I'm not saying it doesn't bother me, I'm simply saying my ear is trained to ignore it if it is related to a toddler temper. I guess you could say I have a high cry tolerance. Okay I hope you don't think I shut my kids away and let them cry all the time. I love them and there is much more holding than crying.
There is also a large amount of dirty diapers in the house. Now Luke is fully trained to take the diaper and put it into the garbage. I have been checking the garbage for other things and haven't found any yet.
Here are some pictures of our crazy family.

Luke loves to give Holly kisses.

Suez (Shoes)

2011-02-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

Luke loves shoes. He plays in my closet with my heels and drags Eric's shoes around the house. Today I gave him a shoe box to open. He was so excited. We took off the old shoes and put on the new shoes. It took forever to get a still shot of his new kicks because he ran around the second they were on.
Oh and the best part of his new shoes is I paid $1.26 for them after a few coupons and a buy one get one half off!

Nike commercial anyone? He was one the go. (Yes Kayla I put my kid in a coat when 70 degrees outside. We silly Arizonans.)

He is going through a huge growth spurt right now and thickening up. Just look at those ankles.

Little Luke Man

2011-02-18T22:54:00.000-07:00

After holding a sweet newborn for a couple of days, I was excited to see my little boy. I was surprised to find an enormous 15 month old. I swear Luke must have grown a ton in those couple of days. I found a little man who runs, talks, and is obsessed with books. He calls Holly "baby" and must be reminded at every interaction with her that we are "soft" and "no" that is for baby Holly. He gives her ultra slobbery kisses and headbutts thanks to his father. He brings me his books while I am nursing and says "up Mom" and "book". I must say as a mother of 2 for 6 days I am learning to multi task in ways I never thought I could. He is also learning that sometimes he is not mom's first priority. He has been entertaining himself in his room and with his toys more and more. He also is getting into everything. He loves going to the park and I have found it necessary for both our sanities to let him run free for a couple of hours a day. His favorite book is Mr. Brown Can Moo. He gets so excited when we get to the thunder page. Here are a couple of pictures I caught Luke in the act of something mischievous.

I found him in his room reading his book on his toddler bed. He is still in the crib at night.

We told Luke to give Holly a kiss, he opted for a "hea bup"

Holly Jo

He loves brushing his teeth.

Holly Jo Lines

2011-02-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

7 lbs 12 oz and 19 3/4 inches long

After a speedy arrival, Miss Holly Jo is here and she is perfect. I must say I was getting rather discouraged the closer I was getting to my due date. I tried practically every labor inducing secret short of castor oil (yuck I was not going there). I had jogged a mile at the park the Saturday before she was due to produce only a tired and more achy 39 week prego. So alas I finally decided she would come when she came. I worked a 10 hour shift on Friday vowing that it was my last day of work whether the baby came or not. Eric and I did a ton of stuff that evening including grocery shopping and cleaning. We went to bed around 10:40. I was so exhausted. I woke up at 11:30 with hard contractions. Hoping to get some more sleep I ignored them for a few minutes, but they just kept coming harder and closer together. I woke Eric up and we packed Luke and headed to my Aunt J's in Gilbert to drop off Luke. It was the longest car ride from Gilbert to Chandler Regional. I was praying in between contractions for green lights. When we arrived at the hospital at 12:20 I was dilated to a 7. The nurses swiftly moved me to the delivery room where the anesthesiologist was setting up my epidural. After some much needed relief, I was instructed to get ready to push. It all happened so fast, it was like a dream. Four contractions later Holly Jo arrived at 2:09 AM. I kept thinking I just got here, how do we already have a baby. Because of her quick delivery her face and head were perfect. We just love her.

Expiration Date

2011-02-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today as I bought my milk I couldn't help but notice the glaring expiration date which happens to be my due date. I sort of feel like I have one of those stamped on my forehead as polite strangers tell me I look like I'm ready to pop at any time. The one on my head must read "extremely ready to have this baby". I will be 39 weeks on Monday.

Say Yes

2011-01-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

This is sort of a belated post but I love love love looking through my wedding photos and reminiscing on that special day. Eric and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary a couple of weeks ago on January 15th. We didn't do anything too special which is the part I loved. We spend the day getting ready for the baby and went out to dinner. It also marked the end of my two week stent of bed red from weeks 34 to 36. During those two weeks I must admit I netflixed several episodes of Say Yes to the Dress. Yes I still love my dress and still love the man I married that day.

I love how you can see Eric in the reflection of the door.

First Hair Cut

2011-01-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

Since I now have all sorts of time on my hands. I thought I would do some back blogging. Here is Luke's first hair cut. He looked like a little man. As expected he cried through most of it.

Bye bye baby mullet

Temple Lights

2010-12-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

I tried to get Luke to look at me but he was glued to the many lights.

Here I am in all my glory. 31 weeks! Yipee. I can't believe this little girl will be here in 9 weeks!

Birthday Boy, Sick Boy

2010-12-06T10:38:00.000-07:00

Luke turned 1 year old on Friday. We drove down to Yuma on Friday, but Luke was not feeling that great. On Saturday he still had a runny nose and fever. Sunday he was feeling better so we celebrated his birthday at my parents house. He was still a little tired and not quite himself. We got some cute pictures.

Uncle Kurt gave him a mohawk for his special day.

Luke got a basketball, football, and soccer ball for his birthday. He seems to favor the basketball and could care less about the football. We see if this still rings true in a couple of years.

These are a few of my favorite things

2010-12-06T10:16:00.001-07:00

Luke is walking and talking (if you call gibber gabber talking). He can say a few words which happen to be his favorite things.

"Ball" Luke loves to play with balls. He calls anything remotely round a ball. I gave him a boiled egg to eat and he said "ball" then took a large bite.

"Bubble" My babysitter has a bubble machine and Luke goes crazy. I keep small Halloween bubbles in the diaper bag. It has saved me a time or two with a cranky baby. Bubble can often be confused with "bottle" which I think he can say now or he is just calling his milk a bubble.

"Book" I found him the other day just like this going through his box of books. We take lots of books to church.

"Dad" and "Dog" He most favorite word is Dad! Eric is so great at getting down and playing with him.
He also loves dogs, especially little ones he can chase after.

He finally started to say "Mama". I think I call him baby too often because he says baby perfectly. I taught him to point to my tummy and say baby. I don't know how much he really understands because this morning he pointed to his tummy and said "baby".

*Picture of mama and baby pending a shower and makeup.

10 1/2 months

2010-12-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

He has 6 teeth and love to eat.

Here are some pictures I took back in the end of October. My little boy is getting so big.

Thriller Nights

2010-10-31T18:28:00.001-07:00

Eric has made fun of me relentlessly for my love of the 80's and dressing up. Most of my college pictures have some form of dress up for some theme party. This year my husband joined in the effort. He dragged his feet a little at first, but after a trip to DI I discovered he loved the 80's much more than me. We even listened to Guns and Roses while getting ready. Our ward hosted a big festival combine with 2 other wards. So we were off with crimped hair, Billy Idol hair, pegged jeans, high tops, gold chain, pink and turquoise galore, and one crazy monkey. (Yeah for big sweaters being in I'm 25 weeks!) Eric and I joked about being his older siblings Jonathan and Jennifer. Jen informed me that while crimping was a valiant effort to dress up like her in the 80's, my hair needed to be much bigger and my earrings also. Gotta love it!

Sneak Peak

2010-10-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

For once my procrastination paid off. I got this cute little monkey at Old Navy 50% off. A monkey is quite an appropriate costume for my little Luke. He is climbing all over everything and getting into everything.

We're having a baby!

2010-09-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

Eric and I are expected a little girl February 14. We are so excited. I had my 19 week ultrasound today. I remember getting a lot better pictures with Luke, but she gave us the shot that counted. She is definitely a little girl. Bring on the pink!!!

I think she will be cuter when she comes out.

Mi familia

2010-09-02T21:11:00.001-07:00

8 1/2 Months

2010-08-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a post of Luke's months in a while. He is growing and changing so much. He is pulling himself up, crawling everywhere, and getting into everything. He has two teeth on bottom with 4 MORE coming in up top.

Blakelee's baptism

2010-08-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

I love having so many nieces and nephews. It seems like someone is always turning the special age of 8. We went to Yuma for Blakelee's baptism and Laura's baby shower. We were happy to spend time in Yuma before the start of the semester. The weekend was jam packed with swimming, baby shower, bowling, great food, and great family time. Eight of the ten sibling and their families were in town. I forgot to take pictures most of the time so here are the few I captured.

Sicily, Blakelee, and Elizabeth

Blakelee's adorable dress

Grandpa John and Grandpa Wilton

Luke, Cedric, and Camille

Hyder Weekend

2010-08-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

We went to Hyder a few weeks ago and loved staying in my mom's new house. It was a perfect getaway from the sticky city. The weather was surprisingly cool for the end of July.

Luke went on his first motorcycle ride and seemed to like it.

There is just something special about being able to shoot off your back porch. Eric and Kurtis set up cans and other targets. Just before they started to shoot a poor bunny hopped right in front of the targets. I don't think I even have to tell you the fate of the little rabbit.

First reptile brought into the new house, needless to say the stay was short lived.

And lastly, ping pong has because a fierce family sport. Kurtis and Mom play best of 5 sets to determine todays champ.

My handsome husband!!!

2010-08-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

Eric got his braces off today!! After 7 years of metal mouth, it is practically the best day ever. It took Luke a little bit to recognize his daddy's new look.

Already???

2010-07-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

My little mischievous one is starting to scoot. He found the movies today. I think it is only the beginning.

Just a Walk in the Park

2010-07-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

Eric and I went to girls camp on Saturday for the hikes. We were the fearless leaders of the 1st year hike with a few of the YCLs there. It was rather enjoyable, but I wouldn't go so far as to call it a hike. We took several breaks and the mid point was a small natural springs. The girls were a little unimpressed for the anticlimactic turn around point.
Luke stayed home with my mom and Shanna. He was so cute when we came home. He was really excited to see us.

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

We went to Yuma this weekend and celebrated Independence Day. Jen and John Hill and their family were down from Colorado to enjoy the heat. It was great to see everyone. We spent two days on the river and Saturday in the pool. We enjoyed lots of great food.

Grandpa Lines with Luke and Christian

Brinley, Luke, & Dominick

Luke & Weston

Henry, Elizabeth, & Brielle

Blakelee & Brielle

That's a good looking group of kiddos.

Tough Kid

2010-06-24T19:39:00.001-07:00

Luke had surgery today. Everything went well and he is recovering great. He took the longest nap ever today so we will see how the night goes. Going into the surgery we thought he had an undescended testicle but there was also the possibility that he may not have a left one. When baby boys are developing their testicles start out in the same place as a girls ovaries. In their descent during development the can twist on their way down cutting off blood supply and thus leaving an atrophied testicle. When they went in they found Luke's left testicle has atrophied and he also had a left inguinal hernia. So they repaired his left inguinal hernia, removed the atrophied testicle and did an orchiopexy on the right testicle, which essential means they tacked down the right testicle so it will never twist and cut off blood supply. He is doing great and has been extra snuggly today. The doctor said the recovery time would be a couple of days but Luke is already rolling over and laying on his stomach. I have a feeling he will bounce back quickly. The toughed part was not feeding him this morning.

Who knew the toy of choice to get him through the morning without food would be the wipie box.

He slept through most of recovery.

My Little Man Love FOOD

2010-06-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

With one tooth, my baby is fully prepared to take on the world of food. We have been introducing lots of new foods and surprisingly the only thing he didn't like was mushed avocado (I should have added garlic oh well). He is doing well at grabbing a picking up foods as well as spooning in a jar of baby food here and there. Here are a few shots of my messy boy.

Loving broccoli.

Post bath.

More broccoli and he smeared the veggie baby food all over his face.

Loving a lemon. He didn't even make a sour face. He sucked on the lemon for quite a while.

6 months

2010-06-18T22:40:00.000-07:00

Sitting up, scooting, one tooth, and eating lots of new foods. I am loving this stage.

My son ate my homework... Eric starting giving Luke a piece of paper while he did his homework. Harmless at the time and it kept Luke very entertained. Now he reaches for any paper in his little chubby arms length and then will cry if you don't give it to him, The solution is a crinkly cloth book. Luke scrunches it up and puts it in his mouth just like before only this time he won't choke.

5 months

2010-06-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

My little boy is growing and growing. I can hardly keep up.

BYU-Idaho Nursing

2010-06-17T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've been a nurse for 3 years now, my how time does fly. This weekend I got a chance to see 3 of my gals from my college days. These girls really mean so much to me. They endured with me our eight week eight credit Anatomy and Physiology class. I remember meeting these girls the first day of college. Things have changed a lot but it seems like we picked up just where we left off.

This one of our Spaghetti Nights in the summer of 2005.

Denise & Erika, Me & Luke, Nicole, and Nancy

My Grilling Man

2010-06-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

So this is Memorial Day weekend, probably the lowest point in Eric's grilling life. He felt the need to grill outside on the holiday so thank goodness for the extension cord and George.

We finally we bought a proper grill. Happy Father's Day Love! Eric grilled up an awesome Mexican meal for my nursing friends. We are looking forward to a summer of grilling!

Remember this post

2010-05-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just close my eyes continued....

They've been practicing.

I love to see the trust this little boy has in his daddy. You can see it in his smile.

Luke loves his sock monkey

2010-05-06T20:13:00.000-07:00

I am learning how kids go through phases. Luke is currently in love with this red sock monkey my mother got him. It matches his crib bedding so I have left it in the corner of his crib since Luke was born. This last week he discovered it. It is wonderful with 2 arms, 2 legs, and a tail Luke always can hold on to it.

I love it when he wakes up from his nap with a smile.

He rolled over!

2010-05-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

Well I need to hurry and post about Luke rolling over before he starts to crawl. He is learning so fast. Here are a few snap shots of our little roller in action.

Success!!

Domestic Diva

2010-04-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

So I am not the most crafty or talented in the kitchen, but I decided to take a stab and channel my inner domestic skills. I painted and mod podged the letters in Luke's name for his room. I found this book of bright colored animal scrapbook paper. After the completion of the first letter, I was very skeptical if they would turn out. However when I finished the mismatched letter seemed to blend into something. So here it is.

Hike

2010-04-29T19:01:00.000-07:00

We have been pretty busy these last few weeks. Eric is wrapping up his last semester at MCC and I am still working at PCH. We found a little time last weekend for a day trip to Camp Lomia, just north of Payson. The stake needed more priesthood assigned to go on the girls camp hike later this summer in July. We went up with the stake for the pre-hikes. Eric jumped at this opportunity to take his family on a hike and purchase a backpack for the baby. (Can I just say I LOVE Craigslist!!!) Eric also got two Costo bags of trail mix, so we were pretty set. On the trail I commented how great the trail mix was. I had never seen so many M&M's. Then I found out Eric added the rest of our giant bag of peanut M&M's to the trail mix. Pure genius. Luke did awesome on our little 4 mile adventure. He slept most of the way. Our camera made it on the hike, but sadly the battery was left home in the charger. Here is a snapshot of the boys the night before.

4 months

2010-04-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

I am playing a bit of catch up on my blog. I took Luke to his 4 month appointment. He is 16 lbs 9 oz and 26 1/2 inches long. He is getting so big. He is right in the 90th percentile for height and 75th to 90th for weight. Most of his clothes are 6-9 months. He rolled one week ago, but he hasn't since. He talks and giggles. I am amazed how much your life changes after having a baby. Eric and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

I love this little Harley onesie. I was trying to get more pictures but Luke spit up 2 more times. So this was it. Luke got 4 shots today. I learned from last time to give the Tylenol before he get fussy.

3 months

2010-04-06T16:53:00.001-07:00

I took Luke a few weeks ago to get his 3 month pictures done. He smiled and giggled. By the last shot however his eyes grew red and he fell asleep as soon as I put him in the car seat.

Sometimes I just close my eyes...

2010-04-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Easter Day!

2010-04-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend down in Hyder for Easter. My mom is t T-minus two weeks to moving into her new house. Whahoo! The desert was so green. Many desert flowers were in bloom and the Gila River was running. The river ran once after a big rain when I was in high school and the time before that was the great flood of 93'. The desert is beautiful!

I love this picture! You need no words to describe our little family, only this picture!

It was fun to watch the ol' grandpa come out in my Dad. He held Luke and played with him. And you haven't really held him unless he spits up on you, so Dad got some of that also. He's the Little Lukie Tukie!

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

2010-03-23T13:03:00.001-07:00

Luke has found a new best friend, himself. Who better to entertain him then a cute smiling face who laughs and giggles just like he does. I thought it was a one time ordeal, but now I put him in front of a mirror if I need to complete another task in the house. I recently added a mirror toy to his play mat and he was immediately drawn to shiny smiling face.

Brown...

2010-03-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

Well I have spent my whole life trying to be just like my sister Kayla. I think we can just add this one to the list.

Rebecca and Cameron

2010-03-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

I love this couple! Rebecca is Eric's cousin. Becca grew up in Yuma near Eric, in fact their photo books of their childhood are practically identical because they were in every picture together. I became friends with Becca when we did fair years ago and continued to be friends through girls camp and many stake activities. Becca asked Eric if he would go with me on our first date when we were sophomores.
I just love weddings and March 5 was a happy day for many couples at the Mesa Temple. But the most gorgeous bride goes to Mrs. Peterson. Here are a few pictures. Eric's mom, sister Jessica, his brother David and his wife came to Mesa for the wedding.

Curtis Family

Auntie Leo

It was so much fun hanging out with Uncle Mark and his family and the happy couple the night before the wedding. We stayed up to 1 in the morning playing cards and other games.

Here is Luke and Christian's first wrestling match after the wedding. Luke was getting a diaper change so that is why he doesn't have any clothes on. He is catching up to Christian is weight, but Christian still has him in skill.

Being Mr. Mom

2010-03-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

I went back to work two weeks ago, hence no new post since I have resumed the working life. My days off are far to lazy to do anything but recover from work. However, I don't think my family will survive if I continue that current attitude. I don't know how mom's do it. The first day was hard to leave my sweet babes at home. I was so excited to come home to see my happy baby. It was Luke's cranky just before bed state, so I was not greeted by that crazy smiling boy I know. The next morning he gave me many more smiles to make up for it. My co-workers would ask if I was worried about my baby and husband at home. I expressed complete confidence in my husband, being the youngest of ten you better believe this uncle did his share of babysitting. Eric is great with Luke!
After 12 glorious weeks of not working my nursing skills were feeling a tad rusty. But after 5 shifts I think I am back in the game. The second day I hung a unit of blood, received a transfer from the PICU, took care of a kid with an epidural, got a kid back from surgery, and managed to get out on time. This nursing business is making my really crunch down on my time management. If only I can apply that to the laundry, dishes, cleaning, and cooking chores.

Here Eric and Luke are enjoying their favorite activity, sleeping.

Moments like this

2010-02-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Its times like these when I really know that my baby loves me.

PCH Nurses love babies!!

2010-02-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

Well my maternity leave has ran dry and I start back to work on Monday...dun dun dun. I have thoroughly enjoyed three months of baby bliss and a stress free life. I will be returning to work alternating between 2 days a week and 3 days a week. I am already sad to leave my little Luke, but he will be in good hands with Eric at home.

I do love having a support system at work. Many of my co-workers have been pregnant, are pregnant, and had babies this year. I like being able to know that other moms are doing what I do. It's the joke at work that if you drink the water you'll get pregant. We love to celebrate with baby showers. Last night I went to the Cheesecake Factory in honor of Stephanie's baby girl due in 4 weeks.

Here is Jamie's precious Evan, who was born just two weeks after Luke. We shared pregnancy woes throughout our 9 months.

And here is Stephanie beaming at 36 weeks. Baby Isabella is almost here.

Oh did I mention I love Cheesecake Factory. I tried the cookie dough cheesecake. Divine.

Ready for Church

2010-02-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

Here are my two handsome boys. Luke's shoes are a little big, but cute nonetheless. This weekend was Stake Conference. We enjoyed the meetings and the traditional DQ blizzard after the Saturday session.

2 months!

2010-02-10T12:09:00.001-07:00

Luke went to the doctor yesterday. He weighs 13 lbs 8 oz and 25 inches long. This puts him above the 95% for height and 80% for weight. When you look at those cheeks you don't have to wonder where he hides it. This month he is smiling, giggling, cooing, and batting at the little animals that hang down on his bouncer and floor mat. He is in his own crib and sleeipng 9-11 hours at night! I love it!

Guess who found his thumb

2010-02-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

My little guy is growing and learning new things every day. He found his thumb and fist. What a perfect little invention, no need to have a pacifier when you have one built in. I try the old "chupe" or "chupie" (words for pacifier in our house derived from the Spanish translation which is "chupete") and he prefers the latter. Well his father confessed to sucking him thumb until he was five.

On his own

2010-02-07T19:57:00.002-07:00

We started our food storage! Luke has been sleeping all the way through the night for two weeks now. So we took down the pack and play and traded it in for new shelf. Luke did great this week in his big room all alone. The first night I lovingly tucked him in and told him how much I loved him and kissed him good night several times. When I came back in our room, I didn't realize that the baby monitor was already on. Eric had a good laugh and said, "Someone is going to have a hard time sending him to kindergarten." I laughed. I just love having my boy with me!

When I was in college I dreamed of the day that I would no longer have to take a Sharpie to every food item that I bought and fight for space in the fridge or cupboard. So 10 lbs of black beans, some Jasmine rice, 6 cans of spaghetti sauce and we are on our way to having our year's supply.

*After a very fruitful trip to Smart and Final and Preparing Wisely (the food storage store by the temple) I thought I would update the picture.

I love to see the temple

2010-01-30T13:45:00.001-07:00

For family home evening this week we took our little family to the Mesa visitors center and temple grounds. Eric was so excited to take Luke around. However, the boy slept through most of the tour. He did wake up for the statue of the Savior at the end. We are so lucky to only live 5 minutes away from a temple. I took for granted the convenience of just going to the temple before our little boy. Now I have learned we have to plan going to the temple or it doesn't happen.
Oh if you are looking for a good read on temples, I have been reading Elder Boyd K. Packer's book The Holy Temple. It's amazing!

So Luke didn't quite smile like Eric intended.

7 weeks and 30 pounds ago...

2010-01-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

I had some pregnancy pictures taken a while ago by Jessica Poole Robins. She also did my wedding photos. I love her style and she really captured the moments. When I first looked at the pictures, I just kept thinking "Was I really that LARGE?" Yikes. I am thankful to have traded in the belly for a beautiful son. Oh just a side note, Eric and I don't do well in photo shoots. He makes me laugh and then we both make ridiculous faces. I guess that our true colors really shine through. Well... Here are a few of my favorite.

Blessing Day

2010-01-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

Luke Wilton Lines was blessed on Sunday. We had four generations there and three of them had the name Wilton. Great Grandpa Lines's name is Wilton, Grandpa Lines's middle name is Wilton and so is Luke's. We had a great time with all the family and friends that made it out to my parents new house out off exit 87 in Hyder AZ. We told the guests to go 9 miles north off the freeway and to turn into the first house on the left. All the grandkids wanted to climb on all the tractors and equipment out there. They also loved the endless supply of dirt. All and all it was a really fun event with great people and amazing food. Big thanks to Aunt Janice Smith and all the others who brought the food and desserts.

Luke was blessed in the same outfit that all of my brothers and the grandsons have been blessed in. My mother made her own wedding dress and with the extra material she made a blessing dress and a blessing suit. Luke is in the 95 percentile for height, but he was able to squeeze into the suit to uphold the Skousen tradition.

Best Year Yet

2010-01-18T15:48:00.001-07:00

January 15, 2009 I married the love of my life!

Inside Out

2010-01-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

Well he's not quite ready for rock n' roll...

One Month Old

2010-01-08T16:17:00.003-07:00

Our little guy is one month old. He started out 8lbs and 8 oz and 21 1/4 inches long, at the doctor's office he weighed in at 10 lbs 11 oz and 23 1/4 inches long. I can't belive how much he changes everyday.

Feliz Ano Nuevo!!!

2010-01-08T16:06:00.000-07:00

We spent New Year's weekend in Yuma with Eric's family. I must have been having too much fun to remember to take pictures. We had all of Eric's family that live in Yuma at his parents house for New Year's Eve. Luke loved all the new people and fell asleep in many of their arms.

Grandpa Lines and Luke taking a nap

Eric on the Harley, all of those dirk bike lessons in Hyder paid off.

Cousins, Camille Lines born Nov 11th, Christian Hansen born July 29th, and Luke Lines born Dec 3rd

Luke and Camille at Sunday dinner

Great-Grandpa Wilton Lines and Luke Wilton Lines

December 31st Wilton Lines turned 95

I celebrated my 23rd birthday on January 2nd. We went to a movie with all the adults and Sushi afterwards.

Christmas in the desert

2010-01-08T15:10:00.001-07:00

Well I know its a little late for a Christmas post, but here are some of the highlights of our Christmas. This year my whole family was there except for my brother Jacob who is serving in Seoul, Korea. He called home Christmas Eve to complete the family. This year was fun as our family is growing. There were gobs of grandkids, okay just 5 running around.

The stocking were hung by the chimney with care.

Christmas Eve dinner

Fairest Little Jesus Child

Christmas morning

All of the couples and Kurtis got paint ball guns for Christmas. Eric was thrilled with the newest gun addition.

Luke slept through Christmas morning, but was up for the reindeer suit later that afternoon.

Paintball wars in the tractor graveyard

We don't have too many Christmas tradions, but every year we take a journey into the Hyder desert to track down a historic site. I don't know how my father comes up with one every year but one thing I have learned is there is history everywhere. This site was an old mining community named Sundad in the 1950's. The story goes that an artistic women in the community made designs and patterns in the dirt out of rock and bottles that are still there today.

The old mine

The desert really is beautiful.

Skousen Christmas 2009

Ghost of Christmas Past!

2009-12-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

December 23 marks the one year anniversary from Eric's jaw surgery! The oral surgeon says we are getting closer to getting his braces off! He came home from the hospital on Christmas day with his mouth wired shut. When I saw him after his surgery I was speechless, he was to be my husband in 3 weeks. The swelling went down emensely and he smiled well for the pictures considering.

This one is for Grandpa John

2009-12-22T11:03:00.004-07:00

When Eric was a baby he liked to bite on his father's nose. Thankfully our son does not have any teeth yet, but he dose enjoy sucking on anything. My little boy has got quite the sucker on him. Whether it is his hands or a pacifer, something is always in that kids mouth.

Eric and John

Luke and Eric

My Little Family

2009-12-15T13:55:00.001-07:00

I love my family. Not just my mother, father, sisters, and brothers, but now I am a momma. Before I had Luke I was working at the hospital. One of my little 4 year old patients was questioning my about the massive bump on my tummy. She asked if there was a baby in there. Then she inquisitively asked, "Does your baby have a daddy at home?" I told her that our little boy had a wonderful father at home for him just like her. I was so thankful at that moment for the gospel plan of families. As Luke as come into our home, the doctrine of eternal families gives me daily comfort and strength to do better.

Who wouldn't love this little guy?

Splish, Spash, I was Taking a Bath!

2009-12-15T13:43:00.002-07:00

My little boy's umbilical cord finally fell off.(This last picture was the last day of the cord.) So it was time for a real bath. Thanks for a great baby shower gift of a baby tub, we were all set to go. He loved the warm water and only screamed when he was removed from the water. He has since had quite a few baths. The newborn diapers fit him snuggly, but we have discovered they do not hold very much. I think he had 4 different outfits and 2 baths yesterday. Welcome to motherhood and endless laundry. Oh I love this little guy.

Luke Wilton Lines

2009-12-05T17:10:00.002-07:00

Eric and I welcome the newest addition to our family. Luke Wilton Lines was born Thursday Decemeber 3, 2009 at 1:42 pm. 8 lbs and 8 oz and 21 1/4 inches long.

The delivery went great. I was very thankful for great nurses and hospital staff. I was a little nervous to be a patient in the hospital for the first time. They took great care of me and Eric coached me through the rough parts. We came home yesterday and enjoyed bringing another little spirit into our midst. Already he has brightened our life. Today we all enjoyed a day in pajamas and naps. I think I could get used to this.

Have you had that baby yet?

2009-12-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

Cleaned kitchen top to bottom , including stove top
Washed and folded all laundry
Cleaned bathroom and scrubbed floor
Proofread Eric’s paper
Doctor’s appointment. 3 cm making progress
Bank, dry cleaner, and Target returns
Oil changed in car
Pedicure and eyebrow wax
Considering running bleachers at MCC

Still waiting for a baby…

Craving or obsession?

2009-11-23T09:02:00.001-07:00

People ask me if I have been craving weird things because I am pregnant. I usually answer no, but I was thinking about my latest obsession with cooking with pumpkin. In the last month I have made pumpkin squares, pumpkin bread, a pumpkin roll, pumpkin waffles, and last night I finished off the remaining pumpkin in my fridge making pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. The wallflower fragrance in my home right now is Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin. Craving or obsession? I don't know. I did promise my husband I would give the pumpkin a break for now with the exception of pumpkin pie this week.

Side note: I'm 38 weeks today and still pregnant.

Ode to 37 weeks!

2009-11-15T15:52:00.001-07:00

I can't complain, I have had the most wonderful pregnancy. I had no morning sickness. I attribute that to the volume of emesis I have had to clean up in my nursing career. I figure its the universe's way of paying me back. I have loved being able to eat many times a day, look "cute" carrying around a few extra pounds, and feel a little person moving inside you. As you can see I am a little more round than I used to be. Things I love to laugh about: I swung open the refrigerator door and nudged my belly, I had to walk around the car because I didn't fit between the car and the covered parking pole, and if I have to pick anything off the ground its a struggle that begins with an inner groan. Soon enough I'll get to kiss the little hands and feet that have been jabbing my ribs. We are so excited.

Baby Baby Baby!

2009-11-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

My dear mother slaved away to make the cutest crib bedding for her newest grandson. I picked out the monkey fabric and she went to work on the rest. So here are some pictures of the bedding all snug in the crib. All we need now is a little one.

Here is picture of my mom and sister Shanna from my baby shower. Happy St. Patty's from the green girls. I can't believe how much my little sister has grown up.

Birthday Bliss

2009-11-15T15:02:00.000-07:00

Eric's birthday was November 1; my old man turned 23. My birthday is exactly two months and one day later. It is one of Eric's prized facts that he is two months older and wiser than his wife. I love him the more for it. Eric has been itching to have a tool set around since we got married. So naturally I got him tools for his birthday. It was a huge hit and I have never seen my husband so excited. I hid the gifts for a week or so in our spare bedroom in large rubbermaid tubs. As I have be trying to organize this room for weeks and convert it into a baby room, it was easy to hide presents amid the disaster and trust that Eric would not venture in. The give away was when I brought home wrapping paper two days before his birthday. Once I had the paper he insisted that I must have present and begged to open them two days early. With the warning that he would have no other surprises, I let him open his presents. He looks little a little kid who got there first bike. I love my always young at heart husband.

What birthday isn't complete without a birthday meal? On the menu was baked salmon, mashed potatoes (made with red potatoes, chef's salad, rolls, and for dessert Libby's pumpkin roll. Happy Birthday to my Husband!

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-11-02T21:32:00.001-07:00

Presenting My little pumpkin who seemed to be almost bursting from my medium shirt. My mom and I spent some time last Saturday crafting up a shirt fit for a pregnant lady. I wore my shirt to work with pride and I am happy to say it was a big hit with my patients. I should have taken this picture at the begining of the day before the wear and tear of twelve long hours. The kids at the hospital dressed up in their costumes and paraded around the floor. To my dismay there was no candy, seriously I searched high and low for any morsel of chocolate, but alas there was none. Good thing Eric bought plenty of chocolate for the "prospective" trick or treaters, mainly himself and the Elders. Eric celebrated the day of the dead with missionaries at the temple. Aww...our first Halloween.

When you play with fire...

2009-10-26T21:04:00.000-07:00

I still feel pretty new to the Lines family, but I have learned one thing about Lines boys. They love fire, anything that can be lit or explode grabs their attention. We went out to visit my parents this weekend in the sticks because we were getting a little tired of the city life. Eric loves the open land and open range so to speak. No trip is complete without a fire, a motorcycle ride, and shooting. So at dusk Eric rounded up Kurtis and Shanna and build a good sized fire. He came into the house with a new hair do. No he did not bleach his hair, his poor hairs, eyelashes, and eyebrows were singed. The old saying rings true, if you play with fire, you will get burned.

"trust me folks it hurt really bad. my face really hurt in this picture"

Part two of Eric's adventure was a ride on the motorcycle to Sears point and Hidden Valley. He kept up with my dad and Kurtis even through the river bed. For last part of the weekends adventure, I regret I do not have pictures. Kurtis and Eric shot some Jackrabbits. They then skinned them and cooked some of the meat. It was pretty good and just a little on the chewy side. The shocking part of the story is that my Mom even tried some cooked Jackrabbit.

We really enjoyed our trip out to Hyder. If you are wondering what this 34 week prego did, I tried to stay off my feet as long as I could. I conjured up my Halloween craftiness to make a cute pumpkin shirt. My mom really did most of the work, but it was a combined effort. Check later for a halloween post.

On my mind

2009-10-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

I have often wondered why I choose to work in pediatric oncology. I felt very strongly that it was a position I needed to take when I searched for jobs. I have worked at Pheonix Children's Hospital for almost a year and a half now. I can think of handfuls of patients who finished their treatment shouting ha ha to cancer's ugly face. I can also think of a few dear children who courageously fought life's toughest battle and returned home to our Father in Heaven where he welcomes them into an eternal victory. These children, how I can't seem to call them children, as they have more maturity and wisdom then their age should require, have taught me some of life's sweetest lessons of courage, love, patience, graditude, and hope.

Flu Shot

2009-10-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

What do you do after a stressful day at work? Come home and stab your husband, well that's a little extreme. The hospital I work for gives free flu shots to all employees, so I got my flu shot a few weeks ago. I learned yesterday that good ol PCH can send any nurse home with up to two shots for her husband and family. I have been suggesting to Eric that he get his, but I think the barrier of driving somewhere and paying someone didn't fly. I called Eric from work and asked him if I brought a flu shot home, would he let me give it to him. He agreed. I went to occupational health and picked up a flu shot and stored it in my lunch bag until I got home. I don't think either of us would admit it, but I don't know who was more nervous. After a good alochol srub, Eric got his shot in his right deltoid and I even brought home a Wily Coyote bandaid for him. Good night nurse.

Cabela's

2009-10-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

This Friday we went to our local Cabela's out in Gendale. Eric was in heaven just being in the same building as guns, knives, and any kind of camping gear you could imagine. Cabela's also has an array of stuffed animals that people have donated. I was shocked to see a 12 foot Elephant hailing from Botswana Africa. What do a pregnant lady and an elephant have in common? Nothing! He still has at least 13,000 pounds on me! The picture is not as impressive as the real deal.

Go Devils!

2009-09-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

A good friend of ours gave us some tickets to the ASU vs. Louisiana State this last weekend. We enjoyed our date out on the town and ASU killed Louisiana. I exposed my lack of football knowledge to my husband. I must have concealed it well when we were dating, but the cat is out of the bag. This girl does not know football. Thankfully Eric was willing to explain things as my level. And what game wouldn't be complete without sneaking in some Papa John's pizza. Thank goodness for over sized purses and zip lock bags.

New Ward, New Callings!

2009-09-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

In the last few weeks our Stake was completely reorganized and went from 7 family wards to 5 family wards. As a result every seat in the chapel was filled and there was a new enthusiasm for the changes. To my surprise members of my new ward include Willard and Ruth Skousen and Brother and Sister Cowgar. Willard is my Grandpa Skousen's younger brother. My Grandpa passed away 6 years ago and would be turning 100 this year if he were still here. Just seeing my Great Uncle Willard makes me happy. He has many of the mannerisms and characteristics that my Grandpa including the Skousen ears and grin. He has a strong testimony of the church that I am thankful that is part of my family legacy. Brother Cowgar is my Aunt Teresa's father. Growing up I always figured since he was my cousins grandpa he was my grandpa too. Eric and I have a lot to learn from the many members in our ward.

Now for the new callings! I was called to be the Beehive advisor in the Young Women. I am very excited to get to work with youth. I loved Young Women's and well I practically was just there. Here is my great group of Beehives.

Eric has traded in his Scouting gear for the home teaching lessons as he was called to be the First Counsellor in the Elders Quorum. Although he is the youngest in the quorum, we are looking forward to the challenges and blessing that come from serving. Here he is on his last who rah as a Scout Leader. Eric was pleased when they told him they would still invite him on camp outs. He is after all a boy a heart.

Uncle Eric

2009-09-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

We had an enjoyable Labor Day weekend with the Lines family. Jessica and Adam blessed their new baby Christian Lines Hansen. I was holding little Christian in church and my baby was kicking and moving all over the place. I am excited to see the friendship that will grown between our boys.
Eric got some quality time with his nieces and nephews this weekend. Since he has become a married man he hasn't be able to be around them as much. It was neat to see the way they all just loved to be around him. Here I think he is playing an I phone game, but he has a whole crowd. Eric has had great practice and will be an amazing dad!

Nursing School Flashback

2009-08-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of winter semester in 2007 I started my OB/Women's health class. All the other girls were thrilled about watching babies being born and I wasn't so sure about things. The first day of class we watched three videos of live births. I called my mother that night and told her I could not have any children. She laughed and told me I would get over it. It's funny how things change. Eric and I are so excited to bring a sweet boy into the world. I am still a little nervous about the birthing process, but I think with a little more faith I will survive. Yay for 26 weeks!

The Hyder Handyman

2009-08-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Every man has a need to use power tools every so often to fulfill the measure of his manhood. Eric has been itching to get back to his construction roots so we headed to Hyder to work on the family project. My mother proved to be a skilled supervisor, managing both my father and Eric. They installed several light fixtures. The house looks great but there is much work to still be done.

Colorado Hills

2009-08-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

Eric and I took our first official vacation as a family and loved every second of it. We went to Denver, CO for a week to visit his sister Jennifer and her family. Being a fairly new member to the Lines clan, I am thankful we took this opportunity for me to get to know my nieces and nephews. Eric had a blast remembering all the great times and making new memories with Brenton and Brad. Here are just a few pictures and highlights of the trip.

We drove up in the mountains for a Sunday drive. Colorado is beautiful.

Jen and John

Here I am in all my glory, 5 1/2 months pregnant!

Brinley eating berries.

Brielle

On Tuesday, we went to the Nature and Science museum in Denver with the younger kids. Here are the mad little scientists.

Eric and I went with Jen to the Denver temple. Afterward we met John for their after temple tradition of sushi at John Holly's. I was sad I couldn't eat any, but Eric said it was the best sushi he has ever had.

Thanks Jen and John for a great week. I must be a terrible photographer because somehow I don't have a single picture of Brook. We love you guys very much!

Ultrasound Number 2!

2009-08-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

We have great news. My doctor ordered another ultrasound to check out some things on the baby's heart. I am pleased to report they only found a healthy growning 22 week old baby boy. Here are some of the 3D images. Eric is convinced he has Grandpa Skousen's nose. Oh and on the left side of his head is actually a leg and foot and not an arm.

It's a boy!!!

2009-07-27T11:02:00.001-07:00

We are expecting a baby boy on December 7, 2009!