Congrats on the sabbatical and impending parenthood. Get that PPL before the latter arrives....!
If you're going to do a 'crash course' (an oddly inappropriate term, i'd agree) you'd be well served by nailing the ground exams before you go; it will considerably lighten your load and make the experience there a great deal more enjoyable!
Even if you only do airlaw, met and aircraft technical before you go - your life will be soooo much easier.