Menorca

We are busy visiting and saying goodbyes this week as we run to the finish line.  We had to say goodbye to Menorca a couple weeks ago and it was a little tough for both of us.  This island has the smallest branch in our district so visitors are such a welcome sight!  This last time, we both gave talks as well as a young man who is on vacation for 3 weeks in Menorca!  Steve forgot his chapa--he thought it was on his suit coat in the car, it wasn't!--so Elder Judd was good enough to make him a replacement to use while we were visiting.  We are so grateful for this little branch and the faithful leaders and members that keep it going even when it feels like they are so alone and isolated.  Presidente Bladimir  and Yomaira we love you!

the view from our hotel in menorca

thanks, elder judd, for the chapa!

boat parade in front of the hotel
celebrating a saint, of course!

Ibiza

We traveled to the island of Ibiza  a couple weeks ago for our last time and also for the first meetings in their new chapel--a renovated, rented space in the middle of town.  The branch is so excited to have a chapel of their very own and close to where most of them live, instead of the missionary's old apartment.  It was so wonderful to be with them for branch conference and see the chapel packed to overflowing!  They will probably grow out of this space within a year :)  We spent a preparation day with Elders Madson and Bozarth driving around and had a great hike to the tallest lighthouse in the Baleares.  So sad to say goodbye to this thriving little branch, but we are looking forward to following them on Facebook and watching them grow.

the ibiza chapel, packed to overflowing!

we could see it in the distance. . .

we made it--such a good looking group!