Onwards

We are only 20 sleeps from Me-Maw & Pa-Paw's visit and we are glad for it. I think we've reached another burn-out on each other phase, especially as Dave worked late every night this week so we just need a break. :) Plus, I think both are in growth-spurts, which I've found makes them both very sensitive.

Either way, we are adjusting, getting our routine down. I had a rough last couple of days, just missing home. The GM of the Fluor office here was surprised to hear that we hadn't been home yet, and said we will be more than ready by the time we go. Only 56 sleeps. :) We have a chock-full vacation planned and I've also been told we will be glad to be back in our beds when it's all over!

It does get lonely, I won't lie. It's hard breaking into groups and making close ties - everyone is pretty guarded from what I can tell. Plus, not working and still being "the new kid" just means it takes a lot longer than I'm used to get to know people. But I'm working on it!! I know I've said we've met some really quality people but life often makes it hard to get together. Plus everyone has their friends from home they talk to as well! So, it's just hard to break in.

I thank God everyday for the Bible Study I'm in, those women, while mostly all locals, I just have so much in common with them, they are so welcoming, it has given me an island of fellowship in the midst of the unknown.

I am also very thankful for Dave. He has been very understanding and supportive on the days I've been down - I think in these situations men get along a little easier - kind of feels like the women are more reserved with their friendship but the guys, I guess all in the same boat together, tend to get along quicker. He has been very encouraging as well and we've become much better parenting partners as he knows weeks like this last one are very tough on me.

But all is not lost, we are going swimming this morning and the Women in Petroleum Chili & Chutney Cook off is today - so that is an opportunity to get to see/know others! The teachers at the girls school are wonderful, one of them is an American who I think I will make a point to get to know because she has been here 2 years. It all just takes time and that's my weakest link. :)

God has so much in store for us, it's really a growth opportunity for all of us - but you know sometimes that means you have some speed bumps to weather! Miss everyone and look forward to seeing you soon!

"MONKEY TOUCHED ME!!!!!"

That was pretty much the best highlight of our trip to Barbados. Oh, don't get me wrong, it was beautiful and we got to do some really cool stuff - like standing in the middle of wild monkeys at feeding time and Natalie & Dave swam with turtles! It was great, a really next experience, but we won't be going back to Barbados. It's a good tick mark - the resort was ok (food was awful) and we were kind of far from the real tourist area, although close to the Nature Reserve. It was just a matter of driving around, which we did.

We have a party cruise around Port of Spain tonight and Chili Cookoff next weekend. Busy next few weeks and in 27 sleeps, Me-Maw and Pa-Paw come down! Then, just a few more weeks after that is HOME!

Anyhoo - enjoy the pictures!

SHE'S FIVE!

Happy Birthday Natalie! Five YO told. Sleepyhead is finally awake and we are going to have a big family breakfast before Daddy goes to work. Already got all her toys so we will be putting together the dollhouse today, now that the drill is charged.

HURRAY!