It took no time at all for us to settle right into our new life here in Texas. We’ve been here for a little over five weeks and it feels like we’ve been here for years. I feel like I am finally bouncing back from the nightmare of living in Los Angeles and Austin has handed me my life back. And while I miss our family and friends, this is a great feeling!

(It is REALLY hot here! This particular day was brutal at 103 degrees and the boys show it!)

After a bit of a rough start, Nathan is settling into Kindergarten. Everything is still a bit unpredictable but we are taking things a day at a time. I told the teacher the main thing I want to see this year is growth. He may not be where the other kids are yet but as long as there has been both social and academic growth, I am happy. The public school environment may just not be for him, in which case we will homeschool. But for now, we’ll see how it goes. We have Nathan enrolled in soccer and so far he loves it 🙂 He says he really wants to play football so we’ll see about that too! I think the more he gets involved in sports, the better off he will be but since I have no athletic inclination whatsoever, I completely understand if it’s not for him. I would be just as happy with boys who loved piano or theater as I would with ones who love soccer and football!

(At the Austin Aquarium)

William settled into his new school as well and is very happy. After a few pouty faces the first couple of weeks, he now smiles happily when he goes into his classroom. He seems to have made a friend and really enjoys his days there. I love the school too and think it’s a great fit for him. He plays in a little sports league through his school on Thursdays and it’s pretty adorable to watch him play. Each week they learn to play a different sport. Last week it was basketball and the week before it was soccer. I want all kids to learn martial arts and play an instrument as well but this is a great little introduction into team sports and William loves it 🙂

(Feeding goats at the zoo.)

Colin is his usual busy little self. This kid is definitely not one for cuddles. He would much rather be moving around and exploring that getting snuggles, which was very different from William and Nathan, both of whom I could always count on for a squeeze or nap with mama. He is starting to walk with his walker (this is the first time we have ever had one) and is so proud of himself when he makes it across the floor!

(Feeding birds at the aquarium.)

David is liking his new job a lot. He’s still in training and will be until after the holidays so we are getting used to a typical five days per week schedule. He is just as happy about living in Texas as I am and we are having a blast exploring all the state parks and seeing everything our new home has to offer.

(Our Saturday night music spot.)

I think the main thing I have noticed over the past few weeks is how overwhelmed I have been with gratitude lately. I feel so grateful for my family, for our new home, and for what feels like a second chance to be happy. It’s all very, very good.