Day 4: Fuenlabrada

In order for blogging to work for me, two things have to align. I have to have both the desire and the time. Lately, I seem to be lacking in both. This morning I happen to have a little bit of time, though, so let me start there and perhaps the motivation will come.

Spain! It was increíble, and yet it already feels so long go. I want to capture the memories before they slip away.

Day 4 was Sunday. When planning our itinerary, we first decided where we wanted to be on Sunday, then slotted in the rest. And for Brooklyn, the place she wanted to be above all others was her beloved barrio of Fuenlabrada. As a missionary, Brooklyn helped  open the area to sisters, then finished her mission there. It seems quite appropriate that this would be the first area she returned to. Walking in the church doors, you could tell that this congregation loves their missionaries. Brooklyn was greeted with hugs and exclamations of joy and surprise. 

We were likewise to discover Elder Holman from our home Emigration stake serving there as well. Armed with awesome red hair and a smile, he recognized Jason from a mission prep class Jason taught.

For not understanding the language, Annika did pretty well participating.

As for Eli, well, he looks ready for a nametag.

After church, we all crammed into a tiny elevator for our lunch date with the Murillo family.

This darling family from welcomed us all ever so warmly. The father Carlos is a chef, so we certainly dined well! The Mom, Angela, was also so kind, taking me aside and telling me the most lovely things about Brooklyn. It's amazing how moms can bond over the shared love of their children, even across languages and cultures. Their son Ricky recently returned from a mission to Argentina, so he had plenty of good advice to share with Talia. Annika thought he was cute, but Ricky's currently engaged to Diana (pictured next to him), so she'll have to pursue a different crush.

Course 1

Course 2

Dessert was also delicious, but for Annika the best part was the kitty.

Afterward we went to a park where Brooklyn connected with her friend Mariana. New to the church, Mariana was baptized at the end of Brooklyn's mission.

But wait, the visits aren't over! That evening we ate rice krispy treats with Brooklyn's mission leaders, President and Sister Grow. And indeed, it certainly is a growing time for the mission with so many new missionaries coming and the expansion to include a Madrid East Mission.

 To all the people who helped Brooklyn thrive on her mission, whether members, friends, or leaders, thanks for loving our daughter. She loves you too!