catching up--October

On a long weekend we went on a road trip with Zimmermans, their last sightseeing in Spain.

They are both serious photographers!

 

We were in olive tree country.  What looks like sage is
olive trees, as far as the eye can see in all directions.

We saw the cities of Jaen and Baeza, ancient castles and old churches, olive orchards and more olive orchards (Jaen claims title as olive oil capital of the world), as well as a beautiful national park, and on Sunday we visited two families who have become special to us through our association in the temple. 

Showing olives nearly ready for harvest.

the Gutierrez family at home

Baeza at night

with Sister Bravo and Juan,
her tatoo artist
son-in-law, our guide.

After our temple shift one day we went to the Medieval Fair in Alcala with the Grieves, and found ourselves coming home after the last train, so we had to take a taxi, but had a great time.   (I left my camera in Jaen, and so am lacking photos.  Sister Bravo brought it with her on her next temple trip.)

We went to the town of Guadalajara with Payas, 

Infantado Palace in Guadalajara,
built in 1480, remodeled in 1569.

and to the Sorolla Museum with Grieves.

Sorolla home and museum.

Rebecca brought her baby to show to Grandpa Greg, and we were able to visit Parque el Caprichio and the Prado museum with her.

Rebecca and Darya

in Parque el Caprichio

Becca at La Caixa's Living Wall

Mike and Elizabeth set their wedding date for the end of November, and the flurry of preparations began.

The Zimmermans' and the Lloyds' missions ended.  

A new couple, Grover and Noel Cardon, became our new neighbors across the hall.