How do I combine vector lines drawn in Illustrator with diff

[vickymesh]

If I draw an illustration in Illustrator using, for instance, the pen tool then part of it with the line segment tool and part of it the pencil tool... How can I combine all the lines together so that I can color them in and place a fill inside the areas that are created? I just can’t seem to figure this out! My artwork does lack a touch…you shall better check out my stuff at http://celden.blogspot.com or on my web design company site and please tell what other remedy I shall apply.
I really am having a hard time explaining this.. and finding a solution.. I hope someone can please help me!

thank you

[siongc]

If they are endpoints, you can select both points and join them (CTRL + J). If they are not, I would do this:

Create a filled object and duplicate the outline of your drawing above it. Select all and Divide (in the Pathfinder). You can paint each individual section now.