I am on a non Imm O extended on marriage for the past 4+ years.

This (extension) year I have already used two single entry re-entry permits for unplanned unexpected trips away from Thailand, one was for 10 days, the other 25 days. In January 2014 I have the leave again for 3 months, so will need to obtain another single entry re-entry permit.

In the previous years only one short trip per year was undertaken.

My question is: is there any time limit on how long I can be away from my Thai wife during an extension year. Would an aggregate period of over four months in the extension year raise questions and possibly lead to refusal of the next extension?

No problem to be away. Many do it because they are working outside the country.

You just have to be in the country to do your annual renewal, or at least in the 30 or so days before your renewal date.

That's reassuring. Many thanks.

No problem at all but if you are frequently away consider a multi-entry permit for Thb3800, valid till the same date as your extension.

If you do this, write it (not your visa/extension number) on your arrival card as your visa number, otherwise you will get a minor verbal 'slap on the wrist' at Suvi.

PS: I hate to use the unwarranted expression 'Swampy'.