The Rickard Family: Evelyn turns 5 (and other interesting things from the past week)

Well, Evelyn turned 5 on February 15th. We had her party on the 12th though. It's hard to believe she's 5 already. She chose a ballerina theme for her party. It was fun getting all the decorations for that. Here are a few pics from her bday.

Evelyn's cake- my friend has a cake business called SophistiCake and she made this for us.

She also made these beautiful cupcakes

Claire all dressed up for the party

Birthday Ballerina

Aiden enjoying the party

Ev waiting to blow out her candles

Jacob hugging the bday girl

Friends at the party

decoration for the party

Ev on her actual birthday

Evelyn on the night of her birthday

Claire also turned 5 months on the 13th.

She's such a happy baby!

Last week was really stressful. I felt overwhelmed with trying to balance the responsibilities of a stay at home mom and trying to be a good wife. Thank goodness Matt came to the rescue. He planned a very special date this past Sunday. He took me out for lunch after church and then out for some shopping without the kids (well, except for Claire). It was just what I needed to regain focus and relax. This week I feel so much more energized and motivated. I guess I just needed some time away with my wonderful husband- even if only for a few hours.

I've also started exercising and eating healthier. Since the second week of January, I've lost 10 pounds. I still have a ways to go, but am very pleased with my progress. It's not easy, b/c I do NOT enjoy exercising. But I am really enjoying the results of my hard work. I really want to look and feel good for Matt. A friend of mine started a weight loss group and it is so motivational. The encouragement I have received so far is great. Plus it gives me someone to be accountable to.

We also have added a new addition to the family...

This is Matt's new car. He has named it "Beauty". We finally got rid of the old car I had from back when I lived with my parents. We think it's pretty cool just for a work car.

Oh, how could I forget about Valentine's Day. For dinner, I made pink heart shaped waffles with sliced strawberries and whipped cream, bacon and red heart shaped jello. The kids got a kick out of that.