Ballerina: sounds like you are taking some good steps and that is wonderful
We were expats for 5 years and loved it, and had a family of 3 kids with us. HOWEVER, I think there is a time in the first several months that the excitement of newness starts to fade: THEN one gets throught that phase and often toward smooth sailing and fun.

You might be experiencing some "seasonal" feelings...I know several people who became depressed living in PARIS in Jan.. or even Nov through the following months of nasty winter, dark, gloomy weather.
One was studying French for moving overseas to Africa with their company...etc and thought January in Paris was such a downer.

I'll bet the resources you have lined up will help you feel better. .....lots of people would love to be in your shoes and having the great experiences you are having.

Oh yeah, meetup is good, went to their australia day event. Also try couchsurfing.com which is great for meetups too
I know what you mean about close relationships though, thats the only thing i need here. msn just doesnt cut it. And all my friends are guys too. Be nice to have a girl lol
Got your msn, send me a mail when ur online
Rhea