'When are you heading back to PNG?' seems to be the question we are asked most often.
The short answer: 'We don't know'.
The long answer:
Firstly, we are waiting for our new PNG visas to be approved, as the current ones run out at the end of this month. This will take at least three weeks and possibly a lot longer.
Secondly, Eowyn is undergoing tests for a kidney issue that was identified before she was born (technical details of the condition can be found in this document). She is completely healthy at the moment (and in fact is a delightfully easy baby!), but the doctors need to work out what's going on and whether treatment is needed at this stage. She is supposed to be seeing a paediatric urologist in London for her next test, probably in March.
Another issue is that Andrew's six months in the UK will end in mid-April. This time limit can only be extended in the case of exceptional compassionate circumstances.
At the moment we are just waiting, but we may soon be facing decisions regarding the timing of our return to PNG. Your prayers are certainly appreciated.
Moving on to some positive news:
Thank you for praying for our housing situation. We now have a house to stay in until we leave the country. We'll be moving to Haslemere, Surrey next week and will be glad to have the chance to spend time with friends and family in that area. We are appreciating having a break from the pressures of our work overseas, and we think this time in the UK will help us return refreshed to PNG.
We are happy that Andrew's parents are currently visiting us for a couple of weeks!
Thanks for all your support and encouragement; it means so much to us.