There’s something very special about returning to a place that once felt like home—and realizing it still does.
We arrived safely in Mount Hagen, though not without a few travel adventures along the way. After spending a couple of days in Brisbane to recover from jet lag, we enjoyed exploring this beautiful, walkable city. It was a gentle and welcome transition before heading somewhere a little more unpredictable.
Fully loaded with the maximum allowance (30kg checked luggage and 7kg carry-on each), we boarded our flight to Papua New Guinea. Let’s just say we made full use of every kilo—Ric may or may not have had extra “storage” in the form of candy-filled pockets and a backpack with two computers hidden under his jacket!
The first leg into Port Moresby went smoothly, and we made it through customs without any issues. However, our onward journey to Mount Hagen proved more challenging. After waiting in the lounge through multiple delays, we eventually boarded—only to be asked to disembark due to bad weather.
Not quite what we had planned, but we made the most of it by checking into the Hilton and enjoying an unexpectedly pleasant evening.
The next morning, we were finally able to fly into Mount Hagen, where Ben met us at the airport. One of our first stops was the local supermarket to stock up on groceries for the next six weeks—no small task! Soon after, we arrived at our flat by the hospital gate. Walking in felt like coming home. It’s hard to believe it has been over a year since we were last here.
Easter in Mount Hagen
Easter weekend here was both different and deeply meaningful.
The sunrise service was cancelled, but we still woke early—this time to no electricity, which somehow felt fitting. Later, we joined other missionaries at Ben and Katherine’s for a lovely Easter brunch. It was so special to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones.
The local church held an outdoor Easter service on the hospital lawn, complete with a live dramatization of the crucifixion. Sitting there in the open air, surrounded by this community, it was incredibly moving—simple, powerful, and heartfelt.
After lunch, the kids enjoyed an Easter egg hunt. We had brought candy and eggs to share, and it was such a joy to watch their excitement. The warmth and generosity of the people here continues to stand out—everyone is so welcoming, even as they work tirelessly day in and day out.
That evening, we had some time to organize our things before heading to bed early.
A Slightly Rushed Start
Easter Monday began a little more energetically than planned.
I was sitting down to a relaxed breakfast when Daniel asked if I had my computer. That’s when it hit me—I was supposed to be on rounds at 8:00. It was already 8:20!
After a very quick change, I met Christina, a doctor from Puerto Rico who, along with her husband Alexandro, is here on a two-year residency program. I’ll be joining her on the medical ward each morning, which I’m really looking forward to.
Of course, no first day would be complete without a small hiccup—I had forgotten my password. With IT support based in India, it took most of the day to get things sorted while we waited for them to come online.
Finding Rhythm Again
Despite the slow administrative start, the rest of the day unfolded more gently.
I was able to visit the local store to pick up a few essentials (including much-needed laundry detergent). Later, we joined a group of missionaries for a walk down to the river. It was absolutely beautiful—though I quickly realized water shoes would have been a wise addition!
We enjoyed a relaxed picnic by the water, and Ric fully embraced the moment by floating downstream in his shorts. It was a hot day, and the cool water was very welcome.
Back at the flat, the evening was simple and comforting. We played Skyjo, had supper, and settled into familiar rhythms. Ric headed off for a game of pickleball, while I watched for a bit before winding down with some diamond art and an episode of The Great British Bake Off.
Being back here feels both familiar and new all at once. There’s a rhythm to life in Kudjip that comes back quickly—but also moments that remind us we’re far from home.
And yet, in the warmth of this community, it already feels like exactly where we’re meant to be for these next six weeks.