Islay
Since our last post we have had a new addition to our family, Islay, our 7 month old puppy. We got her from a family who were fostering her for a rescue home. She was very nervous and timid when we first got her and almost scared of her own shadow. However, after being with us for two weeks now we are seeing a big difference in her confidence. She is not so scared to go on a walk will play happily in the garden. She loves all the attention she gets from us. Good to see such a difference in a short space of time.
Guests
It has been a busy few months with guests. In July we had Simon's sister and brother-in-law visiting us from Switzerland. It was good spend time with them and explore parts of our local vicinity that we hadn't taken the time to do.
Following that Nadia and Olivia Dick stayed with us whilst connecting with other friends in Cairns. Nadia, Andrew and the kids were good friends of ours in Uganda and left a month after we did to return to New Zealand. Olivia and Zara had fun catching up and loved the time together. It was a fun time!
A week later a good friend of mine from Scotland, Lillian, stopped in for a few days on her way to New Zealand to visit with her sister and family. It was good to reminisce about old times and also make new memories. We have had some funny moments over the years.
Last but not least my Mum, Aunt and Uncle are with us for a few weeks. At the moment my Aunt and Uncle are off to tour New Zealand for a couple of weeks so they are making the most of their time on this side of the world. Good to have family around and the extra help doesn't go amiss.
Simon
Simon has almost completed another Standardisation course. It has been a busy period for him with training different pilots. One is heading back to Uganda, one to PNG and two to Arnhem Land. Great to see new pilots going out to serve with MAF.
Pray for Simon as he adjusts to more of a ground role than involved in operational flying. It is quite the change for him.
Joshua
Joshua has been struggling with some health issues on and off since we arrived in Australia. He had an ultra sound today for one issue which came back clear. So thankful for answered prayer. Another test also came back clear but further investigations are required. This means a bit of travel as the test can't be done in Cairns.
I am sure he would value your prayers as he is tired of dealing with health issues and, at times, frequent trips to the doctors. He is not the only one!
Zara
Thankfully she is doing well and although suffered with pharyngitis (as well as Joshua and Simon) a month ago she recovered well. She is so enjoying having a dog in the family. They are like best friends already. Islay can't wait to play with her. Joshua and Zara both missed having a dog around so there has been a lot of joy with our furry friend.
Pam
My 6 month stint with MAF is almost up and it has been a great experience, although challenging at times. I have applied for the full time role and so interviews will happen at the end of this month. We will see how God leads this one.
Just today I received my certificate from the Australian Institute of Coaching. I am now officially a Professional Life Coach. All the studying has been worth it and has come in useful in my role with MAF.
Visa Update
Give thanks that we are now on a bridging visa for the 187 which is a more permanent visa. It won't fully come into play for another year but will help us in terms of receiving full medicare instead of partial which will help. Simon will also be able to get into the system which will be a bonus.
