David's Birthday

David's birthday was a nice day. We played games, had pizza, Sprite, and ice cream cake as requested by David. He was sad about not having his friends and family here but we are going to let him have a "welcome home" party with his friends when he gets home. I can't believe he is five years old! He really is starting to show that he is becoming older. The other day he got Grace's food out of the microwave, cut it up and fed it to her while Emily got her water. I was on the phone and walked into the room to witness this. It was really cool watching them work together. He is such a little caretaker. Emily will just follow whatever he does and repeats almost everything David says. She is quite fond of her big brother. I am trying to do some of the same activities that they do in school and it is a lot of fun working with them. Difficult at times but fun. I got David to read his first sentence and Emily is learning how to write letters.

I think my favorite part about being here is the quality time I am spending with the kids. I have no distractions or stress here and it is really nice. I love seeing their individual strengths and differences in personalities. Not that I didn't see them at home, it is just a clearer picture here. I have obtained a lot of reassurance about me choosing to staying at home with the kids. I have been through difficult periods where I have been doubtful but now I feel much more confident.

I finally called one of the moms I met at the park and we are going to have afternoon tea next week while the kids play. She is from South Africa but lived in London the past 9 years and now lives in Perth. As most of you know, it has been difficult for me to find new friends in Houston so I am trying to learn how to meet new people and be open to new friends. It is very difficult as I am quite attached to all of my friends from high school and college! I also just met a woman from Canada and she is really nice and seems to be a lot like me in personality. So, that is 2 new potential friends so far here! :)

Paul is doing ok. He is in a new office doing new work with a new team so it has been quite an adjustment for him. He is out of his comfort zone, so he has been facing some challenges that I don't think he expected. I feel guilty b/c I am able to really enjoy it here and have no stress. I am just trying to support him the best way I can. He will probably be going offshore soon for 3 weeks, which I think will be good for him. He has always loved being on the boats. I think when it is all said and done, it will be a good experience for him. He will go to London in November where the corporate headquarters are so that will be fun. In December his project will be over and he is planning to take off about 3 weeks so we can travel about and relax. So it looks like we will have an Aussie Christmas over here on the beach!! Crazy!!

I am off for a jog and then to the beach with the kiddos. Hard life I know...
Miss you all and we send our love.