fire pit upgrade

Below is the upgrade to our fire pit. We are thrilled with the new addition of concrete benches to keep things stable around the ring.

Patio furniture

After much research and nagging, I have scored some patio furniture. A significant upgrade from the $6 chairs that have been doing the job for the past few years. I did get it on sale at about half price and we had to go to 4 different counties to pick it up, but Dan did say it has to be within budget, so... We enjoyed two games of Rummikub outside last night in the beautiful weather. Looking forward to lots of summer fun in 2008 on the patio. Michael loves the rocking chairs

And umbrella

I love the wrought iron

and cushions, too

Tickets to the Count Bassie Orchestra

We went to the Moonlight for Meningitis run a couple of weeks ago and won big. I got a purse from a very fancy store here in town and Matthew won tickets to the Count Bassie orchestra at the Paramount theater. Here are Dan and Matthew dressed and ready to go. Daniel was mortified with my choice of wardrobe. Yes, Matthew is wearing plaid shorts, a jacket and flip flops. We do live in a preppy college town afterall where this sort of attire can be found at most locations of grandeur. They had a great time, got the CD and went for Italian food afterwards. Looking good

Trip to Kings Dominion

Matthew made the American Academic Pop Warner team and was invited to Orlando to receive his award but we could not make it. So instead, we told Matthew he could invite a friend to Kings Dominion for a day trip. He invited his friend Ryan and his little brother Tyler. The boys had great fun. Michael and Dan rode the Dominator on the first day it was open and even got the t-shirt! Cool.

Matthew performs as Mr. Salt

Matthew dashes home one day in April announcing that he has agreed to do the part as Mr. Salt for the afterschool musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
My response, "Really? Are you sure, Matthew? This means you will have to practice, study the lines and music plus stand up on stage and perform. " All the while knowing how he hates to be on stage, even though he can talk your ear off in person.
Much to my surprise and after hours of practicing on the karaoke machine at home, listening to the cd ad nauseum and dress rehearsals in the kitchen, he pulled it off with much pizazz. It's cute to hear him still singing the songs in the shower. I suspect this will be one experience that stays with him for a lifetime!

Mr. Salt tells about his factory

More Mr. Salt and Veruca acting up...

About to lose that daughter

The cast. Notice the aviators!

Great Soccer season

Michael had a fabulous season of soccer with Mr. Harvie as our head coach. The season ended with a huge upset as our gold team won against the red team. The red team was full of classmates and long time friends so the pressure was on! Our team did not disappoint and pulled out a victory with Michael scoring 2 goals. I think the boys are still talking about it today.

Here is Michael with his gorgeous trophy. The trophy and a huge smile!

Michael made 2 goals during this game.

You can see the ball as it goes in the goal

Michael on the move

Relay for Life 2008

Here is our team for Relay for Life 2008-Team Coffman. Thank you to all of you who donated to our team! Our goal was to raise $4000 and we raised a total of $5,300. We couldn't do it without you. To our parents and family who have survived cancer, we thought of you each step of the way. Our challenge to raise money and stay up all night was nothing compared to what you have conquered. We love you! The team the day after. Who is the most tired here, hmm?

Melissa and Matthew try to stay warm. It was down to the mid 40's at night, brrr.

Melissa and Kristen with jazz hands for our glow in the dark merchandise.

Girl talk while trying to stay warm.

Us with Julie's luminaria picture. We all miss her so much!

Julie's luminarias.

No one could speak or barely breathe considering the entire field (football size) was filled with these bags representing those who have had cancer. It is quite emotional.

UVA nursing team in front of Team Coffman camp

Rear view of team coffman t-shirts

Group team photo. It took everyone you see here to pull this off. Including the children!

Still motivated and taking laps around the track.

Trey finishing the box car race for team coffman! Go Trey!

Michael gets ready to start the race. Notice monkey in the co-pilot seat.

Claire gets her mask before we sold out of them!

Matthew and Michael preparing to make some sales.

The survivor lap

Matthew was the salesman and CEO. He worked the hardest and sold the most at the tables. People would send friends to come by and see the little salesman at work.

Setting up the table with the children.

Suzanna, Catelyn, Ashley, Anna, Michael and Melissa setting up.