Pictorial update

January came and went in a whirlwind. We made a significant life change, which is good (more on that in another post), celebrated Curren's 4th birthday (will have to put that post up later), sickness started at month's end in our home, and we walked through some difficult days with a friend who was deeply struggling through life.  It was a really heavy month, but we found moments of joy in the daily routine.  Thankful for friends and family who have loved us well and supported us during the last several weeks.  

Here's a quick look at what we've been up to.  

 Plenty of time lately to love on little bro.

 We started Whole30 (a dietary restart if you will, or a highly restrictive Paleo diet) on January 7 and made it to the end.  The food was delicious, we were satisfied at every meal, we feel better, sleep better, and look better.  I lost 7 pounds and a couple inches from my waist and hips and Aron lost 27 pounds and more like 4 inches from his waist and hips and is down 3 pant sizes! I started running again too.   It's such an incredible feeling to really be enjoying food and not counting calories or eating only x-size portions.  We eat to fulness and aren't finding the need to snack throughout the day.  Now, I'm continuing to cook a Paleo diet.  And we are bringing the kids on slowly (in case you are wondering how they are doing).

 Plasma car fun (a freebie I scored from redeeming Pampers diaper points I've been saving for oh, like 6  years).

 Her hair is finally getting longer to do some fun little pigtails.

 Trying to get out and enjoy the sunshine in between rainy & cold days and days of illness.

 Been digging my Starbucks $1 reusable cup; paired it with a handmade, crocheted cup sleeve my friend Casey gave me a couple years ago.  Perfect.

 Such a happy boy, I tell you.  I just love this pic I was able to capture in between tickles as I tried to make him laugh.

 This pic made it twice on the blog; it's just too cute not to show, primarily because while these two *can* be really sweet together, man, they also go at it like the best of them. Our times together always end up with alot of tears and needing to ask for forgiveness.  The girls are only 6 months apart, so hopefully, their friendship will be one of genuine fondness as they grow older.  This pic was also taken before Kate (purposely) clocked Stella in the head with Stella's new toy guitar.  Awesome (not).

 Time to celebrate cousin Stella's 3rd birthday this weekend.  Love living near family so the kids can enjoy such moments!

 Sick big bro; lots of sickness for the past 2 weeks in our home.  Trying to find joy in the middle of such seasons because let's be honest: being sick sucks.

Baby's first cold which has induced asthma symptoms and need for a breathing treatment.  We've got good genes here in the McKay family.  Big sis was a good entertainer for Gav while he got his treatment.