We enjoyed spending PNG's Independence day in Goroka. The NTM Center planned a huge event, starting with the high school band playing a couple of pieces including the PNG National anthem. 

 Then we watched a parade of many different tribal groups as well as the NTM missionary kids floats. This group is known as the 'Mud Men'.

 Jonathan seemed to enjoy watching everything!

 But he didn't want to get too close to these guys!

 Jonathan almost had a horse ride too, but the line was too long and he had to take a nap, maybe next time!

Visiting our Bena Friends!

 Wow, the view hasn't changed at all... we miss the beautiful scenery as we drive down the Interface road.

 Piku saw us coming and ran out to meet us... almost dropping the scones she was selling.

 Momore, the village comedian, he always has a joke! :-)

 Kino, Jacob's wantok...Jonathan didn't know what to think about all these excited people who wanted to hold him and touch him.

 Sone, my wantok!

 A 'shell' house that they made for a big man's funeral... many people came from all around to stay there and mourn the death of a very important man, a lawyer  in the capital city, who grew up here.

 Jacob with his former Interface workers, plus one guy who just decided to be in the photo. :)

 The lawyer who passed away

 The burial site... we just happened to arrive for our visit soon after their time of mourning was over. So many people were gathered together.

 Jonathan enjoyed some scones, he ate two whole scones!

 Jonathan enjoyed watching the baby pigs in the village.

The people have some good knife skill! Using a machete to cut up a sweet potato while holding it in their hand.

 The view as we drove back down the road.

It was so good to see our friends, but so sad that we can not live at Interface anymore. Please pray for the missionaries as they get ready to go back to live with the people. Pray that the people will be more open to the Gospel when the missionaries return.

Enjoying the 'cold' Highlands!

 Jonathan loves the little table outside the guest house.

 And he loves to sweep!

 And he loves the slide

 And he loves the swing.

 Sunday evenings Jacob plays roller hockey with some fellow Canadians. Jonathan and I go watch for a few minutes. And now he says 'hockey' all the time. He finds the ball, wants to try on the jersey, the helmet and even use the stick. :) We found a plastic banana in the toy box here that he uses for a hockey stick, because he can't use Jacob's huge stick. :)

 New books to read about bulldozers and tractors!

 The playground is one of his favorite places!

The process of getting a good 19 month picture. :)

 Every month we take a picture of Jonathan but it is taking longer and longer each time. :)

But eventually we get a good one. :) Jonathan at 19 months old!! Wow, he is growing up so fast!