Two other questions we get asked is either when are you going, or how long will you be there?
We are, Lord willing, leaving in January. We are already in the process of getting rid of most of our belongings to prepare for this. I will just say it’s not easy. All of these memories of painting furniture, buying things for the first time as newlyweds, etc., and trying to find new owners who will appreciate them as much as I do. I will just say, it’s hard. But, when it all comes down to it…it’s all just stuff. I just saw someone say on facebook today, “I dont feel like mission work is a sacrifice, it’s actually a privilege to be a part of what God is doing to reach the nations.” So for this…I will go “all in”.
2nd: How long will we be here? We simply say, “We aren’t going for a time commitment, but a task commitment.” Our desire is to learn the language of a people group who is inviting us to come give them God’s talk for the first time, give them a Bible in their own language for the first time (after teaching them how to read/write), and start working ourselves out of a job. When they start stepping up in the roles as preachers, elders, teachers, etc. we will not be needed. That is the task that is at hand, and that is when we will come back “home”. 
This is a picture of Bible that was just finished for the Siawi people of Papua New Guinea!
Well, Jill, I can certainly relate to sorting through ‘stuff.’ Well, attached to each article of clothing, furniture, etc. is a memory. You are wise to grieve over them and not rush. I have come to appreciate Jesus’ words, Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. In order to be comforted when you’re laying in bed in Papau New Guinea, you will have to have grieved here sufficiently. You will still have moments of sadness and even tears that will come over you from time to time, but then you will be able to have a measure of comfort. And the sadness lessens as you continue to allow yourself time to reflect and not push those thoughts aside trying to ignore them. Take those thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ, and He will continue to comfort you. He is in the business of compassion. I enjoyed seeing you and your family at C-group tonight!