Home at Last

We left Burgos at 4:00 a.m. (Spanish time)on 11-25-09 and drove up to our house 26 hours later at 9:00 p.m.(Utah time). It was the trip that never ended. We were worried about traveling the day before Thanksgiving but it didn't seem to have an effect. 

First impressions:

I miss Madison!

It was great to see my dog.

Oh yea, it was great to see McKenzie and Ladd.

It was really nice to drive an automatic Truck.

People here are much more casual, and more friendly.

Weston got home brushed his teeth, changed his clothes and then went to his friends within 15 min. of being home.

What a great adventure but it's nice to be home. 

Last Sunday in Burgos Talk

The Paradox of Free Agency

I’m grateful for the opportunity to speak today. When we knew we were coming to Spain one of the first things we did was go onto the churches website and find the ward or Branch in Burgos. When we saw that there was a branch here I imagined the typical struggling branch with a few part member families and even fewer priesthood holders. What we found was a strong branch with strong members and a strong body of Priesthood.

We admire you all. It’s not easy to be a member of the church in Burgos Spain where the whole culture is centered on the traditions of another Church. You inspire me to be more diligent and faithful.

Before I came to Spain I wanted to be able to give a talk in Spanish. I thought 3 months would be enough time. I need to report to you that I don’t have the gift of tongues yet. It is a gift of the spirit I will need to work harder to get. So when President Calderon asked me to speak my first task was to find a translator. I thought that Sarah could do a good job but she is a woman and maybe a man's voice would represent me better. Then I thought of Jared but thought that maybe he’s to in love to do something that takes this much concentration. My next thought was Elder Holmes but if the translator is going to represent me I needed some one more handsome. So I asked Elder Esteves-Garcia. He’s handsome, smart and a man.

I would like to talk about freedom and more specifically freedom of choice or free agency. Free agency is one of the foundations of the Church of Jesus Christ. Without free agency there cannot be accountability. Without accountability there can be no rewards or happiness.

Before this life there was a war in the pre-existence. Satan wanted us to have no choice but be forced to live the gospel and therefore return to god without sin. Christ knew that the happiness we gain in this life and forever comes from the choices we make.

The principal of free agency is a Paradox. The gospel of Jesus Christ is filled with paradoxes. A paradox is when something appears to be one way but is really another way. For example in Mat 16:25 it says 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. To me this scripture means that if we are busy paying attention to our own selfish needs and wants we will lose our chance for eternal life. But when we lose ourselves doing Christ’s work, which is serving others, we will find eternal life. The paradox is that only after we lose something will we find something even greater. Another related paradox is one of service. I have heard it said this way. We give and we give and we give and we give until we have it all!

Perhaps the greatest Paradox in the gospel of Jesus Christ is one of free agency. Heavenly Father gives us freedom to choose on one hand but on the other hand gives us apparently restrictive commandments. The paradox is that the more we obey or submit to the will of the Father the more freedom we have. As we submit ourselves to the will of God, He gives us more knowledge and choices than we could ever imagine. When we gain more knowledge and choices we gain more freedom. In this way we learn and grow precept upon precept as the scriptures say.

In John 8:31 and 32 it says: Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. In other words as we follow the words of Christ we will gain knowledge and truth which makes us free to make choices. The more knowledge we have, the more choices. The more choices we have the more freedom we enjoy.

What an amazing paradox Freedom by being submissive.

(if we have time)

I think it is important to point out the things that prevent us from having freedom of choice. Anything that keeps us from hearing and following the will of God limits our freedom to choose. Things like pride, addictions, selfishness and hatred are a few of the obvious things.

One thing that I have thought a lot about since I have been in Spain are the traditions of men and how they often limit our freedom of choice. They become such a big part of our culture and way of life that we don’t even consider how they can limit our understanding and thus limit our choices. A man who has done things one way all of life and his father did things the same way all of his life and his father before him, has a hard time even recognizing that there may be a different or better way of doing things. In this way traditions of man sometimes keep us from even looking for truth and thus limit the freedom that comes from truth.

In closing I would like to bear my testimony in Spanish.

Yo quirero compartir mi testimonio hoy. Estoy muy agradecido estar aqui en Burgos con ustedes y sentir de su espíritu y su gran ejemplo. Yo testifico que este trabajo es verdadero. Estar en Burgos me ha ayudao a reforzar ese conocimiento. Yo sé que Dios vive! Lo sé! Yo sé que El nos quiere! Lo sé! el evangelio de Jesucristo es evendencia. Yo testifico que Jose Smith fue un profeta de Dios. El vio a Dios y Jesucristo. Yo testifico que Presidente Monson es un profets verdadero. Amo a Jesucristo! Yo sé que El vive! Testifico que el Libro de Mormon es verdadero y es un Segundo testigo de Jesucristo. Estoy muy agradecido por mi familia.

Les vamos a echar de menos. Por favor, Cuidar a Madison por Nosotros.

Digo estas cosas En el nombre de Jesucristo. Amen

T.P. Around the World

Now that I have used toilet paper in 6 of the 7 continents (The seventh being Antarctica and I think they don't use TP there. They just hold it), I consider myself an expert on the subject of TP around the world. One does not need to travel around the world to get a feel for the various cultures. A less expensive and almost as accurate way to experience the world is by using the various lavatory parchment from around the world.

We have just returned from the African continent and the subject is fresh on my mind (or somewhere else), let me explain what I mean. Africa is a continent that is full of energy and is very stimulating to the senses. The people there are very resourceful and can make a little seem like a lot. Using their restroom sheepskin is an experience in African culture. Upon use the senses are brought to attention. The posterior is immediately made known that it is in a wild and unpredictable environment. The roll is loosely wound so that you get the impression that there is a much larger amount of onion skin than there really is.

Here in Europe things are much more refined. In fact, in typical European fashion the lavatory vellum is too posh. In an effort to show the world that they are more cultured then everyone else the TP has been made to give the derriere a sleek and civilized experience. However as usual, this experience lacks substance and thus the need for the bodet. The restroom tissue looks and feels well-bred but in the end (ha ha!)needs an even more swanky solution.

In South America the comparison is also true to form. South America is a developing continent and so is the toilet tissue experience. They have not yet mastered the art of softening the parchment. The TP is so rough there that you are encouraged to through it the waste basket next to the bogg because the high fiber paper is high in clogging properties. So when I say developing I mean it it 2 ways. One must develop a tolerance for the lack of softness and seeing used papyrus while sitting on the throne.

I have not been to Australia but I have been to New Zealand. Weston who is studying geography tells me that New Zealand counts as the same continent. The people of New Zealand are practical and there is a back to nature feeling when visiting. The bogg parchment reflects these same characteristics. There is a simplicity and woodsy feel that comes with your water closet experience down under (pun intended). There's just no fluff or bluff when swiping the buff.

A whole book could be written about the privy parchment in asia. But I want to make a couple of comments. In Asia your experience can range from the basic 1 thin sheet at a time to the most exotic material you could imagine. It just depends on what your willing to pay for. However, the everyday traveler can have a wide variety of experiences when it comes to utility stationary. The one thing you can count on is that the privy experience is unpredictable. You can go into a squatty-potty and use paper as nice as silk. Or you can go in the nicest Hotel and find parchment that tears when you breath on it let along sweeping the crevice. To sum up the Asian experience both in and out of the john you can say that you get what you pay for except when you don't.

Now to the North American Experience. It seems like the comparison holds true here more than anywhere. First there is this thing called capitalism. If there is a buck to be made by having nice paper than nice paper it is. But if there is a buck to be saved buyer beware, The slick nonabsorbent sheets can be a nasty experience. But for the general population the TP in the USA is efficient. Maybe a little overindulgent when it comes to texture but all in all the job gets done comfortably and without a mess. The one thing that should be said about the lavatory letterhead in the US is that there doesn't seem to be a shortage (just take a look in the closet of anyone who shops at Costco), that is unless it was a man who last used the bathroom.

Runner's Theory Proven

I know that it takes a lot of imagination to call what I do in the morning running, but in my secret moments that's what I call it. This morning when I was "running" a women passed by and gave me the international sign for "man you are slow!" This is how it happens. As soon as the faster runner passes you, they look at their watch. They don't really care what the time is. It is a signal to tell you they ran by you and it only took such and such time, or in other words "what is taking you so long?" They don't care how far you have already ran or how far you are going, it's just a signal for you to look at your watch and see how slow you are going. I now know this happens all over the world.

I have to admit that on the rare occasion when I pass someone while running, I do the same thing. I look at my watch in a way the other runner is sure to see. In fact, I have to admit that I enjoy sending the message mainly because I don't get to do it very often.

When I got home this morning, the first question Lynette asked was, "Did you only run six miles today?" Sounds innocent enough, right? However, that is also code for, "you mean to tell me that it took you that long to only go six miles?" Sometimes I wonder why I run! If you want to call it that!

New "Euro" Jacket

Today while Madison and Weston were in seminary I saw a used furniture and clothes store near the church. There was some very cool furniture in the window so I went in to take a look. While I was looking I noticed a rack of dress jackets. The one that caught my eye looked very "euro" of course I tried it on (there was no mirror so I couldn't do the check out the rear thing). It seemed to fit so I asked how much it cost (yes, in Spanish. (I know how to ask the price in many languages)). She hesitated then said "one Euro". I didn't even hesitate. It was too good to be true a "euro-jacket" for 1 Euro! There can be no dispute I now own a ""Euro"-Jacket".

I Miss My Dog

I know it sounds lame but I miss my dog. I'm not sure where dogs fit in here in Burgos, but I do see a lot of dogs when we go out. As I have mentioned there is a parkway several miles long that runs through the center of town. It is a very common site to see people walking there dogs. From all appearances the dogs here are very well taken care of, unlike many countries we have been in. Al least they aren't food (Korea). They seem to be part of the family, maybe even too much sometimes just like at home. The first day we were in Spain I stopped a man that was walking his Brittany and tried to tell him I missed my dog (he didn't understand because I wasn't fluent in Spanish back then). Now every time I see a dog with features or coloring similar to Izzy my hearts leaps a little and aches a little at the same time.

But here's the deal, my friends and family can keep up to date with how I'm doing by reading my blog or better yet reading Lynette's blog. And if they care at all they can write a comment or send an email. Izzy is a smart dog but she has not acquired those skills yet (she just turned one). So she has no idea what is happening to me. Even though McKenzie and Ladd walk or run with her almost everyday I know she has time to wonder if I'm ok, and when I'm coming home.

It's going to be hard to leave Spain but coming home to my dog will make it a little easier.

A Few of My Favorite Spanish Things

The Round-a-bouts:

Roundabouts just make so much since. It allows for a good flow of traffic even when conditions are crowded. I love to ride bikes through them.

The Ice Cream:

I don't know why but I didn't expect the ice cream to be so good. There is a chocolate variety here that is like eating a candy bar without the sick syrupy taste.

The Chocolate:

I knew European chocolate was good but I wasn't sure if that would reach into the Iberian Peninsula. The chocolate is great.

The Bidet:

That's right I'll admit it! Sometimes that extra little cleaning is needed. Bishop Rife you were right about this one.

Doner Kabop:

These are sandwiches that originate in the middle-east, Turkey or somewhere. They are made with bar-b-cue meat on a pressed and toasted bread and have a yogurt sauce. They are big and cheap and taste great.

The Missionaries:

It's hard to be a missionary in Spain. At 2:00 in the afternoon until 5:00 the country comes to a stop. This time is sacred. Don't mess with the Spaniards Mediodia (siesta). The missionaries we have met are positive and eager to do the work. They just can't do it between 2:00 and 5:00. If I had to describe the Spanish lifestyle in two words I would say "tradition" and "schedule". Both are obstacles for missionary work.

The Members of the Church:

I've said it before, It's hard to be a member of the Church in Spain. I admire the members here.

Portugal with Family

Madison has Friday and Monday off school so we decided to take a trip together. My sister Shawn served her mission in Portugal and talks highly of the city Porto. So we drove here yesterday. I needed to be on a conference call with my partners by 7:00 our time. We arrived in Porto at 7:00. Good job, Just get to the hotel and give them a Skype call. Well after 2 hours of looking, we finally found a hotel. Not ours but one that could give us directions to ours. Lynette went in so I could double park. She came out with directions. About 30 minutes later we found ourselves in an old section of town with tiny one-way cobblestone streets. We stooped at a Bakery and asked for directions. The lady behind the counter knew a little bit of english but didn't know how to get us to our hotel. So she asked her boss and 2 other men that were in the bakery. After several minutes of these 60-70 year old men yelling at each other, the boss decided that the only way we could get there was if he drove his car and we followed him.

What a great kindness to some lost strangers. We followed him for 20-25 minutes and ended up at the same hotel where we asked directions the first time. We didn't have the heart to tell him it was the wrong hotel. We just thanked him and went in to ask again. the second time wasn't any better. about 45 minutes later I found the right exit and almost fell into our hotel. It was very fun to see how anxious people were to help us. We all just laughed at our adventure and felt good about those who did there best to help.

No Motorcyles, No Fishing, No Huevos

As you have read, Martin Sheen and his Son Amelio Estevez are in town making a movie. My daughters Whitney and Jessica, heard about this and wanted me to make friends with one of them because they (Whitney and Jessica) are both in film and could use some connections. So yesterday before Seminary and before fishing we went by the set. As it turned out they were taking a break and Amelio was just standing around (I don't think people here think Mighty Ducks was a big deal). As we were talking he asked where in Utah we were from. He said he knew where Orem is because he used to own a cabin in Montana and would drive through Provo on the way there. I saw the opening. So I asked him if he fishes (you know a guy with a cabin in Montana should be a fisherman). No he doesn't fish. He said he loves to drive up there, by the time he gets there he is all decompressed. SO I asked "do you have a motorcycle?" ( you know, likes to unwind on the road). He doesn't ride motorcycles either. No Fishing?, No Motorcycles?, get a life.

So two strikes. Do I dare try again. Since Whitney and Scott do movie reviews on Filmthreat.com we thought it would be cool to have him say something on video about their reviews. You know "visit whitney and scotts film reviews on fimthreat.com". He wouldn't do it. He said that Filmthreat hammered him pretty good and he would rather not. Thus the "no huevos" reference in the title. Maybe there is more to the story when his ex-wife Paula Abdul divorced him because he didn't "want" to have kids.

Fishing in Burgos

I've heard people say that somethings are backwards in Europe. When it comes to pesca (fishing) this seems to be true. I have tried to find a place where I can fish in Europe. A trip anywhere doesn't seem complete unless you can do at least a little fishing. I asked around town and no one seems to know where to go. Several weeks ago we went to a friends home village named Barbadillo de Pez (Barbadillo of Fish). Our friends told us that the river there is protected for artificial flies and lures only. They also said that there are many fish and that the area is very famous for fly fishing. With a name like that I wanted to give it a try.

So I found the local Fish and Game office and bought a fishing license. A couple of weeks ago I spent the afternoon in Barbadillo de Pez, on the river with my fly rod. After several hours and not even seeing a fish I concluded that if this place is famous for fishing there are no fish left in Spain. I mean after several hours I should have at least seen a fish. Usually you spoked at least one out of his hole. Nothing. There were bugs all over the place. Size 8-10 mayflies were coming off the water by the hundreds. No sign of any feeding fish.

Yesterday I went for a run through the parkway that goes along the river Arlanzon, which goes right through the middle of Burgos (population @ 180,000). I had a tough bike ride the day before, so I was running extra slow (that's really slow for the normal person). I was looking for reasons to take a break, so I decided to see if I could find any holes where fish might hang out. I couldn't believe it. Everywhere I looked there were feeding fish, not many on the surface but subsurface. Some looked to have good size (bigger than 14 inches). I ran up to the Hotel that Pachi (madi's host family)runs. There is a girl that works at the counter that likes to fish. (see the only person I know in Europe that fishes is a girl. Not to say anything against a girl fisherman (no play on words). But there should be some real men somewhere in this place.) I asked her if she knew that there were fish in the river Arlanzon. She said "yes". She likes to bass fish and those are all trout. I asked if it was legal to fish within the city she said "of course". I ran home and got out the fly rod again. After we rode with Weston to Seminary, I went down to the river. In about 30 minutes I caught 2 nice rainbows and missed a few more. The people on the shore and the bridge near where I was fishing often stopped and stared but mostly just ignored the weird guy in shorts standing in the middle of their river. Anyway, it was fun. No fish in the mountains but thousands in town. Even European fish like to live with everyone else in the city.

Fame vs Fortune

As you can see from a recently posted video we had a brush with fame. Martin Sheen is in Burgos filming a movie about the Camino de Santiago. He is staying in the hotel owned by Madison's host family. The movie sounds like it is going to be good. It is about the father of a boy who died on the pilgrimage. The father then carried the ashes of the boy from france to Santiago. The movie is called "The Way".

Back to Martin Sheen, as we came back from doing paper work (the Spanish national past time) with Pachi, Martin (since we are now on a first name basis) was just coming out of the hotel. He was very friendly and volunteered to take pictures with us. It was very nice he knew we wanted to but we didn't want to ask so he volunteered for us. He stuck out his hand and said "hi I'm Martin what's you name". It was pretty cool.

Our brush with fortune this week was having the missionaries over for Sunday afternoon comida. There are three sisters in Burgos because Sister Johnson is going home this week. The other 2 sisters are from Spain there names are Sister Sanchez and Sister Moraza. Sister Moraza has been on her mission for 1 month. The Elders are Elder Driggs and Elder Holmes. Elder Driggs is being transferred this week. Burgos was his first area. I love these missionaries. They bring an amazing spirit into our home. They are full of light and love. It is a privilege to know them. If I had a chance to befriends with Martin Sheen or anyone of these missionaries it would be the missionaries hands down.

Dia Del Templo En Madrid

Weston, Lynette and I went to The Madrid Temple this morning. Lynette and I did an endowment session and Weston did about 25 baptisms. Getting there was not easy like going anywhere in Spain. Street names are put on the corner of buildings(sometimes) not on the corner of the street. If you ever do see them it's as you pass the street. So you can get directions from google map but it doesn't help because you don't know the names of streets. However this time it wasn't bad. We got to the general area of the temple and I saw the steeple. I followed the steeple to the temple. I think there is an object lesson there somewhere.

As soon as I saw the temple I got that "welcome home" feeling. Everything just felt right. As we entered the temple I thought there would be people that could speak English that would help us along. There were a few but for the most part the workers only spoke Spanish. Yet it still felt familiar like the temple should. I think the fact that most workers spoke Spanish made it feel more familiar in a strange sort of way. After all the Madrid Temple is in Spain.

Lynette and I were the only couple in the chapel before the session so we were asked to be the witness couple. I thought it was going to be a little weird, being the witness couple and wearing the headsets for English. The temple worker asked who spoke what language, as it turned out there were several missionaries in the session so most of those attending spoke English as their primary language. So instead of us wearing the headphones the officiator wore them. That seemed more weird.

I just want to say I'm not one for aesthetics, but the Madrid Temple is amazingly beautiful. The detail, the light, the materials are incredible. The Celestial room is the most beautiful one I have been it. It is stunning! no kidding! There is a great mix of gold and shades of green and white. While I was in the Celestial room the sun came out from behind a cloud and just lit up the room in a spectacular way. (Am I starting to sound like Euro-Man?)

It was great to go into the Baptistry and watch Weston do some of the Baptisms. That seemed to cap my temple experience off.

I talked to the Temple President for a few minutes about the Temple. He said that the Temple was designed by a famous European architect who is not a member. The Architect told him that the Temple has the finest materials of any building he knows of in Europe. It shows. Some how this man captured the spirit of temple work in his design.

Euro-Man

I'm not to sure what to think about "Euro-Man". Lynette and My mother went shopping Saturday so I thought I would keep them company. (Weston knew better so he stayed home) Anyway by shopping, I mean real department store shopping. Before now I have noticed that men here wear clothes that are more feminine than I am used to. I know sometimes I can be a little overboard with bright clothes (red jacket) but the theme is quit consistent here: bright clothes, sweaters around the shoulders, scarfs and designer jeans that look like they have been pressed. But shopping Saturday opened my eyes to a whole new euro-man I have never seen.

First of all I was in a Department store. What men shop in department stores. If I can't buy it at Costco, Walmart or Cabela's I don't need it. Once in a while my wife will get me a sweater or something in a department store but I don't need to be there. (I need to explain about the red dress jacket. I pulled up in a mall to take my daughter to diner and there in the window of a men's clothing store was the jacket. I went inside. Tried it on. It fit. I bought it. I left. I did not shop for it!) So I'm in the department store with my mom and Lynette, I can either watch them shop or I can go check out the mens department. The first thing I noticed was the purple pants with the matching purple sweater. The next thing I noticed was men trying this stuff on. The last thing I noticed before I left to watch my wife shop was the men looking in the mirror to see how the pants looked from behind!. Who Cares! And don't do that little twisty thing to check out your own backside!

Maybe it comes from small families that result in too much of their mother's attention. But I know men from small families that are not feminine. Or maybe they just aren't exposed to things like hunting camping, fishing and real sports like American Football. But then again I know a lot of men that don't do those things that would never do the twisty thing in a department store. I don't know what it is but Euro-Man is different.

Ciento Verbos

I memorized 100 Spanish verbs. I actually know them very well. If I hear the Spanish I can tell you the English and visa-versa. With 100 verbs I should be able to get around pretty well. However, I can't tell you what I did, what I'm going to do or what I am doing. I can only describe the action in the simple present. For example I can say I (you, he/she, we, they) run fast. I can't say I ran fast, I will run fast, or I am running fast. As you know I'm talking about verb conjugation. I have no use for it. Let's just keep the verbs the same and use other words to describe the tense. example: "I ran fast" could be "I did run fast" or "They are running fast" could be "They are run fast". Simple and easy, but it's not going to happen. So learning 100 verbs is easy; learning to conjugate them is a whole new story.

Video on Youtube

I have posted all the videos on Youtube. Sometimes I download more than what is shown here so if you are interested you can go to (www.youtube.com/user/coryborup) and see all the videos.

Burgos Rama-Changing of the Guard

Our branch meeting today was a great meeting with a good spirit. Lynette said she could understand much of what was said in sacrament meeting and I felt like I could follow along in Sacrament meeting and in Priesthood. In sunday school it is easy to follow because we have the teachers manual in English.

Our Branch President, Pres. Cardus has moved to Barcelona because of work. The Stake President, Pres. Franco told how difficult it was to find someone to be the new Branch President. He interviewed everyone a couple of weeks ago but did not feel impressed to call anyone. He went home without calling a new Branch President. He said that he prayed about it and the spirit came to him very strongly and told him who the new B. President should be. He then talked about Nephi and how he was committed to "go and do the things the Lord commands" and how the Lord will sustain our new B. President, Pres. Mendoza. I think President Mendoza needed to here that talk. He seems like a humble man and looks a little overwhelmed. Both his councilors are men from South America. Lynette and I have noticed that they are always at church early setting up chairs and preparing the Sacrament. They both always greet us with a smile.

It is amazing to me that when ever there is a change in leadership, in a position that will directly influence me or my family, the calling is accompanied by a spirit of conformation. Whether it's a new President of the Church, a new Young Women's leader or a New Branch President, there seems to always be a spirit which lets me know the Lords will has been done. This was true with President Mendoza.

His has a tough job ahead of him. He is following a wonderful priesthood leader who really knew how to serve with love, with good humor and with optimism. President Cardus will be missed. President Mendoza's task is very similar to what it is going to be like for someone to follow Bishop Rife ,our Bishop in Orem. I'm going to do what I can to sustain Pres. Mendoza and who ever follows Bishop Rife.

Madison came home with us today after church. It is the last time she will get to be with my mother before my mother returns home. I think Madison is starting to feel some of the pressures of living with another family so it was nice for her to get away for the afternoon and spend time with us and her Grandma.

No More Complaining About 2 Year Missions

We went to a monasterio today to see the place where El Cid was once buried. It is about 15 km. from town. His body was taken a couple hundred years ago from the monastery and buried in the Burgos Cathedral. I don't get this moving the bodies around thing. They get moved so many times it wouldn't surprise me if no one really knows where the bodies are. The other thing is being buried in the floor of a place where people go to church. I thought one of the advantages of dying is you don't have to hear boring sermons anymore. and since the Catholic services are mostly ritual how boring would that be for several hundred years.

Back to the monastery we were given a tour by one of the 16 Monks that live their. Once a monk goes to the monastery it is a life long calling. The man that gave us the tour was 62 years old and had been there since he was 30. He has never left. He works in the grape fields and in the work shop (he did say what was done there) and once in a while he gives tours. His English was very clear. He was humble and kind. We decided that his english was so good because he was so motivated to interact with someone other than the other 15 monks that he studied hard to qualify to guide people through the property. The next time I hear a young man complain about taking 2 years to go on a mission, I'm not going to have any sympathy. One of the Monks at this monastery is 98 and has been there since he was 20-30.

It's amazing to think about. It seems like a candle that has been put under a bushel. It may even be an easy way out. But I could not imagine the courage and devotion it would take to spend your whole life this way.

A Little about Lourdes

The city of Lourdes in France is known for the Saint Bernadette. In 1852 as a 14 year old girl she claimed that she saw and spoke to Mary 18 times. To make a long story short, the place where she had these visions was in a cave next to a river. Mary told her to dig in a muddy spot and drink the water that comes up. She was told that the water has healing power. People come from all over the world to get some of the healing water. The city is lined with shops that sell containers (I thought the container that was shaped like Bernadette would make a good Syrup container, my wife did not think that was funny) to hold the holy water from the spring that she uncovered. Of course there is a huge church on the hill overlooking the spring. The city has a population of 15,000 and more hotels than any city in France except Paris. Over 5,000,000 people visit the site each year. A few of them just curious onlookers like us, but most of them are there for religious reasons. The whole thing sounds obserd but being there with so many devoted followers has it's own power or spirit.

Of course I spent my time looking at the huge trout in the river. I finally asked a group of men if they knew if it was okay to fish in the river. They said they didn't think so. I told them that one of my passions is fishing and that I was from Utah. The next question from them was "are you Mormon?" I told them I was they then asked what I thought about Bernadette and Mary. I didn't want to offend them by saying anything about the Syrup bottles so I told them "I'm not sure how I feel. Mary and Bernadette is not something for me but I do believe in God and in miracles". They were from Germany so I told them about President Uchtdorf.

I don't know what to think about events like this. I worry that it has kept many people from the light of the truth but at the same time it has helped some people turn to spiritual things. It's hard to know. I'll leave it up to you.

When I'm 80 Years Old

Sorry it's been so long. This living in Spain thing take a lot of time. I hope I get a chance to catch up our our trip into France and the Pyrenees. Let's just say if it wasn't for the Pyrenees and pastries, I'd have very little time for France.

I just want to say that my mother is amazing. At 80 she hoped on a plan came to Spain by herself and has the energy to do anything we can do and more. She's not shy. She will just go up to people and start talking in English to anyone she wants an answer from. She knows a lot and she is interested in a lot of things. It's been fun to have her with us but she gets Lynette and I tired, she has so much energy. When I'm 80 I want to be like her.

Some highlights of our trip:

Sagrada Familia

Mont Serrat- a monastery high in the hills on a cliff above Barcelona

Swimming in the Mediterranean

Pastries

The Basilica in Lourdes France-See St. Bernadette

Pastries

Pastries

The Pyrenees-Amazing cycling history and views.

Touring with Mom

My mother arrived on Tuesday. Weston and I went to pick her up. (Weston came because it got him out of school). It was great to see her. I'm looking forward to showing her the Spain I know and even some I don't know. On Tuesday we went from the airport to Segovia. It's sort of on the way home from Madrid. We took a tour around the city and then went inside the cathedral. This city is one of my favorites. It's small but full of history and charm.

On Wednesday we started out toward Barcelona. My mom has been to Spain but not Barcelona and so off we went. On our way we stopped in a city called Zaragoza. Another amazing city with a big cathedral that is very important, and many Roman ruins. we found it by mistake but it is the destination city for many Spanish travelers.

From Zaragoza we drove to Tarragona a city on the Mediterranean coast just South of Barcelona. There we found more cathedrals and more Roman ruins. This morning we drove to Barcelona. On our way we saw lots of cathedrals and Roman ruins. We spent the whole afternoon in the cathedral called "Segrada Familia". The cathedral was started by Gaudi in the late 1800's and it is still being built. Actually this cathedral was a bridge for me. The devotion and faith of Gaudi shown in this cathedral is very inspiring. Don't get me wrong. I don't particularly like the way it looks. It's not the way I would express my feelings about the sacred family. In fact in many cases I think it is tasteless almost disturbing. But it is impossible to look at this amazing building and not be touched by the amount of devotion it took to build and design it. Not just by Gaudi but by all who have worked on it over the past century. I would like to return when it is complete.

As I have looked at this cathedral in progress with modern equipment and now computer assisted designing, I can't help to think that maybe those who built those other, older, cathedrals were expressing their own devotion to the God they knew and loved. I have a much greater appreciation for the many cathedrals that are found every time you turn a corner. I'm not going to look at them in the same way any more. Even the small churches you see in every little village will make me think of those who didn't have the restored gospel so they paid their devotion in the way they knew how.

Sling Box to the rescue.

I know it's sad, when the best thing that happens on a Sunday has to do with TV. Ladd got us hooked up to our TV at home with Sling Box. Sling Box is a device that lets us control our direct TV receiver from our computer and watch what we want. We can even watch and record shows. No more late nights for BYU games. Ladd, You are the man!

Church was great again. The Elders spoke and there was a wonderful spirit. Elder Driggs has only been out a few months so we could understand him a little better. I gave the priesthood lesson on being a disciple of Christ. I've decided I could do better in that area so I'm going to try to do better in that area. (makes sense)

Weston translated some of the announcements for me in Priesthood meeting. I think the language is getting a little easier for him.

Saturday in Burgos 9-26

Lazy day. We studied, ate and walked into town. We also got ready for the BYU game. 1:00 am our time. Ladd and Mckenzie video streamed it through Skype. Thank you skype.

Espanol Es Mui Dificil 9-25

Spanish is really hard! What more can I say. English hard because there are many exceptions to the rules. Spanish is hard because there are many rules. This conjugation stuff. It's hard enough to learn the word but then you have learn how it changes every time you want to use it a sentence. Perhaps the most frustrating part of it is that 2 year olds speak way better than I do. Which make me think, if the best way to learn a language is like a child does, is it going to take two years to get a two year olds language skill?

Lynette and wen ton a 90 km ride today out into the country side South of Burgos. A great ride with lots of hills and beautiful wooded country side. However the wind was blowing hard the hole time. Why is it that when you ride in the wind, no matter which direction you are going the wind is in your face. Our three hour ride turned out to be 4 hours.

We had dinner with Gonzalo's family. He is the spanish student we had in our home this summer. His brother stayed with us 4 or 5 years ago. Their parents were amazing host and wonderful people.

Date With the Sister Missionaries and Chocolate Overdose

Today after Español escuela the sister missionaries came to our piso for lunch (mediodia). Sisters Johnson and Sanchez. Sister Johnson is from California and Sister Sanchez is from España. Sister Johnson who grew-up Vegan didn't seem to mind the american hamburgers and home made french fries Lynette served. It's a privilege to have missionaries in our home. They are both wonderful missionaries with a passion for the work. They told us about a restaurant that serves chocolate dishes. On the way home from seminary we found the shop and enjoyed $20 worth of churos dipped in chocolate sauce/drink. The chocolate sauce was made to dip the churos into and also drink it. I think it was the most intense chocolate experience I have ever had.

Our spanish is getting better but very slowly. Westons Spanish is much better but he wouldn't admit it to us.

Catching-up 9-21

Sorry to have missed so many days. I'll try to catch-up. Thursday we went to Espanol Escuela and the teacher (different from yesterday) decided to take on a field trip to an art exhibit. Art exhibits are not usually my thing but when they are in a language that I do not understand it is really not my thing. Lynette and I came home and went for a quick ride (only about 35k or so). I spent the rest of the day on a conference call with work. That's pretty cool to think you can be in Spain and participate in a meeting in Utah.

Friday we went to Segovia and then to Toledo. Segovia is the city where the Romans built an aqueduct with amazing engineering. They also have the castle there that Walt Disney used to design the castle at Disneyland. We loved the city. Very narrow roads with old buildings and churches etc..etc.. etc..

After Segovia, we drove to Toledo. Toledo is another old city with etc....etc....etc.... but it has a few it's own unique features. Toledo is known for making swords and other weapons of war. Every other shop sales swords knives and armor. Weston and I had a great time looking at the weapons Toledo had to offer.

As we drove into Toledo and checked into our hotel, we were told that we had to move our car because the Vuelta was going to be coming down the road the hotel is on. To most people this would have been bad news. To us, it was great news. The Vuelta is the "tour of Spain" cycling tour. It is one of the biggest cycling races in Europe. 21 days of stage racing just like the Tour de France. The Toledo stage was a Time trial race and the next to the last day of the Vuelta. We watched the race just as the racers were starting up a hill then we went to the finish line and watched. Very exciting, very cool for cycling fans.

Sunday was back to church. I Love our Branch. Madison led the music in Sacrament meeting and the new stake president was the main speaker. Again i didn't understand any of it (shouldn't I start to understand a little by now, it's been 3.5 weeks). But the Stake President brought a light and hope to the branch that seemed evident to me. Lynette, Madison and Weston left after Sacrament meeting to go to Catholic mass. Our friends have a son that signs in the cathedrals choir. I asked them how it was and their response was that they are glad we don't have incense in our church. But they did say the singing was good. I taught the english version of priesthood. It seemed to go well I had 3 class members Solomon from Uganda, Jared a returned missionary from California and Ezekiel from Argentina by way of Utah. Stephen the new convert from Africa has flipped out. I called him this week to make sure he would come. He just keep repeating over and over again that he was a christian and that he had a bible. It was weird. It's like he had a breakdown or something. The missionaries said he has been the same way when they contact him.

Today was back to the Espanol grind. We studied most of the day with a break to take Weston to seminary.

That pretty much catches us up.

Espanol Escuela at Cruz Rojas

We found out about a free Spanish class held at the red cross. They have it everyday for 1.5 hours. The teachers are volunteers. If you know Lynette you know free is good. Today was our first day. It was mostly a review for us, but it will be good to have a teacher we can ask questions to as we try to learn.

Most of the class were from Pakistan. In-fact, one of the class members was the man who served us at the Doner Kabob Restaurant we ate at with the Elders. Doner Kabobs are a type of food from the middle east (Pakistan) and are very popular here because they are cheap, tasty and on every corner.

In Spanish class they played a game. When you were asked a question in spanish you stayed in line if you missed the question you went to the end of line. I spent my time at the end of the line. Just like in any other school I have been in. I did find out however that the people at the end of the line are more fun. ( just like in school also).

Last Supper With Elder Gordon

Elder Gordon is being transfered to his last area before he returns home. We went out to diner with him and his companion Elder Driggs. Elder Gordon is a seasoned veteran of carrying the Cross of Jesus. He radiates a love for the people of the branch, the city and the country. He's humble yet strong. He's bold but teachable. He kept our diner appointment to 1 hour (like the handbook says) though it could have gone longer. I imagine having diner with an american family could be tempting to string it out and talk of home. He's a great example of what a missionary should be a few months before he goes home. He's the kind of Elder you want to be your sons trainer.

Elder Driggs is green but teachable. He also radiates a spirit of confidence yet he's humble. You can tell when you first meet him that he came on a mission for the right reason. We're lucky to him serving in Burgos.

It was fun to have diner with them. I'm thankful for the chance to get to know these two missionaries.

Testimony Meeting in Burgos Branch

We rode our bikes to church for testimony meeting. Last week the stake was organized, so fast sunday was today. We had an enjoyable meeting with a good spirit. Madison gave the closing prayer. Since I don't know what people are saying I notice what they do more. One sister was the most animated I have ever seen in a testimony meeting. She was waving her arms all over and had great facial expressions. I need to learn the language so I don't notice weird things like that.

I taught my first priesthood lesson. The only people that attended were the missionaries. The new member from Nigeria was out of town. I learned two things. I was humbled to teach the Elders. I felt a little intimidated teaching them. I know it seems weird that a grown 50 year old would feel intimidated by 19 and 20 year old missionaries but they have a very special spirit and power. They have been called as full time messengers of Jesus. The other thing I learned is that I need to make sure my class member is there. So, I'm going to be diligent at calling him and getting him to church.

Bike Ride, Barbecue, and BYU

Today Lynette and I rode to a small village called Barbadillo de Pez in the mountains about 70 kilometers from Burgos. It was a crazy ride with a small stretch on the freeway. Jesus the religion teacher at Madison's school led the way. It was very slow. Lynette and I asked for our turn in the front but he didn't want us to. It was the longest 70 kilometers I have ever rode. Weston came up with The family that invited us. She is a teacher at Madison's school. The town was very beautiful. There was a river running right through the middle of it. The family that invited us said that the river is catch and release only and that there are many trout in it. (i didn't see any with my trained fish eyes however)

The family prepared a BBQ with every kind of meat you could think of. They even BBQed bacon (1 ft long 4 in. wide and 1/8 in. thick). Having been shopping here I think it most of cost over 100 Euros. They own a home in this village. They stay there every year for the whole month of August and then on weekends.

On our way home Lynette and I decided to ride by ourselves. Instead of 3.5 hours it took 2 hr. 20 min. Much more enjoyable but a long day of 140 kilometers.

Weston and I stayed up and watched the BYU game on the internet. They beat Tulane by a bunch. We had a great time eating and watching the game together.

Convert Baptism

We just witnessed the baptism of a young women we never met. Preformed by an Elder we barely know. Spoken in a language we don't understand. Yet everything about it was so familiar. It's a great occasion when someone excepts the invitation to join the Lord's church through the waters of Baptism.

This was a 15 year old young women who has been taking the lessons with her family. SHe was ready before the rest of her family but her father bore his testimony at the baptismal service so I get the idea that he won't be far behind. Anyway, it was a great experience.

Weston went to his first day of school today. He's not real thrilled and I don't blame him. It's going to be hard. But I hope it works out for him.

English Class With the Missionaries

Our highlight today was attending the english class that the missionaries hold at he church. It's fun to just be around the missionaries. There is such an amazing spirit. I don't understand why people just don't come up to them and ask to join the church. The light they have is obvious.

There are some very good people that come to the class. none of them really have a purpose to learn English. I think they are there to be near the missionaries in a non-threatening setting. We are trying to arrange an open house with the missionaries for the exchange kids that came to Orem and there families. I can't help to think that there is a way to expose more people to the blessings of the restored gospel.

Cycling and "The News"

Lynette and I took a ride into the hills North of Burgos for about 35 miles. Just mostly rolling hills with a couple of good climbs. Every few kilometers a new village, narrow roads and a huge old church in the middle. It's just like you would picture riding in northern Spain. The roads are very smooth, even the patched roads are smooth. It's a cyclist's dream come true. There are small roads with very little traffic everywhere you look.

We enrolled Weston in the same school Madison is attending. He will only go for the few months we are here, but it will be a great chance for him to learn more Spanish. He is not happy about it. I guess I can't blame him. It's hard to be 14 and struggle to communicate with your peers and on top of that not know weather people are making fun of you behind your back. When we gave him "the news" it wasn't our favorite moment in Spain.

Zarautz

Today was a fun day. I took a run around the point of Zarautz and found this great little village by the sea. It looked like the main industry was fishing. Later in the morning Weston and I body surfed then rented a surfboard for an hour. Weston got up on the first wave. It was great fun. We drove part of the way home on a toll road. It cost 9 Euros. ($13.50) for about 50 miles. A nice road but not that nice. You would think with gas costing $6/gallon they would have enough taxes to pay for the roads, without needing tolls. I must say however as a cyclist you notice the quality of the roads. These roads are nice.

When we got back to Burgos we took advantage of the car and went grocery shopping. So far we have only been able to buy what we can carry in our small backpack, since we are on our bikes. We bought 75 Euros worth of groceries. It should last about a week.

I have to admit I like the whole getting around on bikes thing. Parking is easy, traffic is no problema and it just feels good. I wonder how long I could go in Orem without using a car?

The New Vitoria Spain Stake VS Zarautz

The first stake in Northern Spain was established today. The meeting was held in the auditorium of a University in Bilboa. I guess I was expecting a huge auditorium that would fit several hundred people but it was more like a large lecture hall that fit a few hundred. The meeting was incredible. I can't help to think of how faithful the saints are here. This was impressed upon me when we drove further up the coast to San Sebastian, and ended up in a "small" town of Zarautz. When we got to San Sebastian there was no where to park and people everywhere. We found a place to spend the night in a smaller town West of S. Sebastian call Zarautz. The name sounds like an evil city from the old testament or Book of Mormon. It is actually a cute touristy town in the Basque country of Northern Spain. We walked down the street to the city beach and there were thousands of people walking up and down the beach, playing in the water or eating in an open-air restaurant. I was even more impressed by the faithfulness of the saints. These several thousand beach goers had no concept of the importance a meeting held a coupe hours earlier when a few hundred people formed a new Stake in Zion.

It feels like the church has to work very hard just to keep a small toe-hold in this part of the world. The people here are good. The task of bringing them the gospel seems almost overwhelming to me. Yet little by little progress in the kingdom is being made. Stakes are being formed.

Avila to The North coast

The First Stake formation in the Bilboa mission is tomorrow so we made our way to the north coast(near Bilboa). What a great drive. We started in the plains (which reminds of of Filmore Utah without the mountains), and drove into the mountains of the North. It was a very cool drive with many villages with very big churches in the middle and several castles. You go around a corner and there was a castle on top of a little hill. The Mountains were very green a beautiful.

When we were looking for our hotel we saw a sign to a castle. We couldn't see the castle but followed the signs. The road ended so we started hiking. at the top of a hill the was the ruins of a castle which dated from 800 to 1100 A.D. it wasn't to look at but was cool to think about how different there life was than ours. The Gospel wasn't on the earth and wasn't going to be for another thousand years.

Side note, We booked our hotel using our Aircard and the computer. When we got there the elderly lady that ran the place told us she didn't have the reservation. When I asked her to call expedia she suddenly found the reservation. Then she said we had to have a paper copy. She had had a paper copy, but she said she needed ours. We decided she didn't really want us to stay there so we told her to cancel it. She wouldn't but she wouldn't let us stay there either. She wanted our money but didn't want us. We left and will cancel the charge, her loss. She doesn't get us or our money.

Avila Esapania

Today I rode my bike to the Car rental to pick up a very small rental car. We drove to Avila which is about 3 hours away. They are having a mid-evil fiesta. Avila is famous as a large walled city. It is supposed to be the largest intact wall of any city in the world. It's a little over 2km around the wall. We stayed in our landlords hotel inside the city wall. I know it sounds funny but you do feel more secure inside the city wall. The streets are narrow and the buildings are old. The Fiesta was also very fun. Many people come from all around so they can wear their Mid-evil wear. It was surprising how many people really got into it. There were lot's of booths selling everything you can think of Weston's favorite booths were the ones with swords and armor.

The hotel was a restored palace and was a real treat. Pachi's company owns the hotel and our landlord is the manager of it. So we got a great deal.

Washing machine and Church calling

The big task of the day was to get the washing machine fixed. this is the type of thing that when you know the language it takes an hour or two but when you don't it's an all day thing. We have never seen this type of machine; we don't know how to take it apart, and we don't know where to get parts once we find a broken one. It did take all day but it did get done. The kids had a youth activity at church. Weston and I rode our bikes from the apartment and Madison walked from her home. We got there ok, Madison did not. After a few phone calls we found each other and I showed her the way. She almost made it but started feeling unsure, which made her make some wrong turns.

The youth went out for ice cream without any adults. I like this program. Just think how easy it would be to be a youth leader if you didn't have to go on the activities. But than again going to ice cream with the youth is easy also.

The branch President called me to teach priesthood 3 weeks per month. He knows about as much english as I know Spanish. We spent most of the time laughing at ourselves but a sister who knows english came in and helped. There is a new convert from Nigeria (see earlier blog) He feels that the new convert will be better taught in English. I am going to try to make that thought true.

Uno Week en Espania

It's been one week since we got here. time has flown by. We had our first real conversation in Espanol. It took two of us be we had a conversation with Pachi. At least we're counting it as a conversation. Lynette and I understood it about the same.

Our main Bano was not working so while Lynette and Weston went on a Bicycle ride, I rode into town to get some Bano parts (I really need to know how to put the squiggly line over the n).

I left the piso at 1:30 thinking I could make it in time to get there before they close for siesta. They closed at 1:30. There's no set time on the siesta thing as it turns out. some close at 1, some at 1:30 some at 2 some at 2:30. I say if you're going to have a weird custom then at least coordinate it a little. I id find out that the best tim to ride a bike in the city is during siesta (when ever that is) because everyone is at home and there is very little traffic.

We finished the day going to the english class the Elders have at the church. It was just conversation in english. It was fun to do something we do well.

Missionary Discussion with a Recent Convert

The highlight of the day was meeting with the missionaries and having a lesson with a recent convert Steven. He is from Nigeria and has been in Spain for 4 years. English is his primary language so the Elders have been teaching in him in English. The lesson was on the apostasy and restoration. It was a great experience to see these young mean teach the gospel with love and power. The spirit was strong and we got to bare our testimonies.

Still Getting Settled EN Espania

Today was a bike day. It started with Lynette and I taking a bike ride about 22 kilometers out a road by our house. We just saw some cyclist on it a couple of days ago, so went exploring. Now I know why so many cycling teams use Spain as their home country. The ride was everything you would expect a ride to be in Spain: Rolling hills, Small villages, very little traffic and at the end an old Monastary. The roads were great with a lot of room for cycling.

We also went to Camarara's and fixed up a bicycle for Weston. They have a bike that is about 4 years old but has been rode 3 or 4 times. As it turned out we only had to pump up the tires and adjust one of the brakes. ON the way home I rode 2 bikes and Weston rode a bike. I almost died in Spain (not on the agenda by the way). The handle bares of the 2 bikes got tangled and I lost control I veered out into the on coming traffic but regained control just in time. Pretty scary for me. With 3 bikes we can get around now.

We enjoy the custom of having a large meal at siesta time and a smaller meal later in the evening. I think this may be a habit for the future.

There's not much video today. I just forgot to get it out. Sorry

Our First Sabbath in Burgos

Today we went to church for the first time. There were about 50 people not counting 4-5 babies (that was a more then I expected). I came away with 2 impressions (nothing to do with the talks since I had no clue what they were talking about). During the sacrament I got an overwhelming feeling of love for the members of this branch. Maybe it is because of their faithfulness. They live in a community where everyone is Catholic. It must be very difficult to come to church and have a calling in a place that no one outside the branch knows what that means. It's not easy to be LDS. I think for many it easy to be Catholic. The second impression was that just like Bishop Rife of the Heatheridge 9th ward, Presidente Cardus loves and has a unique concern for his flock of followers of Christ. There is something that comes with those keys to preside that makes me already feel he is a special man. I'm grateful for the church and especially for the restoration of the Priesthood.

Our Saturday in Burgos

We finally got our bikes put together. Lynette and I ran to Camerara's (Pachi and Christina's). I wore a backpack with tools and riding shorts (Lycra). It's only about 5k. (that's 3 miles for you metrically challenged). After a few hang-ups we got our bikes on the road and made our way back to our pisa (apartment for you espanol challenged (me)). The highlight of the day was meeting Pachi in the old section of town then going from "bar" to "bar" eating Tapas: Amazing to say the least. The tapa bars do sell drinks but there is not a lot of drinking going on. Mostly eating tapas which are a snack food. Tapas include spanish version of French fries (Spanish fries?), small sandwiches, hotdogs (perro caliente) and other small bits of very good food. Every weekend the town of Burgos meets in old town to socialize. The since of community is very cool.

Espania Dias Dos

Last night we couldn't sleep. We went to bed at midnight and went to sleep at about 5am. In the morning Lynette and I went for a run. We ran along the river that runs through Burgos. There was an amazing canopy of trees almost he whole way. We then spent the day picking up an air-card and seeing the city. I like this siesta Idea. but I don't like it when you want to get something done between 2 and 5. We ended up eating a 3 course meal that was way too expensive but fun. We walked al through town. everywhere you look there are amazing old buildings and statues and walls. We got connected and spoke with Ladd on skype. it was great to see and hear him. Izzy (my dog) didn't know what to think. She could hear me so she keep going to see if I was somewhere in the house. We already miss her.

Uno Dias en Espania

We spent most of the day moving into our new apartment and trying to get connected. But the best part of the day was getting to know Pachi and Christina. They are the parents of Alvero a spanish student we had in our home 3 years ago. They are really the reason we are here. They extended an invitation to Madison to spend the school year with their family. They have been amazing in the way they have sacrificed fro us. Christina found our apartment before we got here. It was not an easy task. No one wanted to rent for just 3 months. As it turned out she knew someone who just moved out and got ahold of them before they committed to anyone else. As we found out CHristina and Pachi are well connected in the community of Burgos. They run a Hotel called Hotel Velda Burgos. It is a remodeled castle and every room is unique. I don't know if I have ever seen a nicer hotel with an amazing ambiance. We also spent a good deal of time looking for the LDS church. It wasn't where Pachi thought it was. We never found it but we will that is a big part of why we came to Spain. We hope to be able to serve in at least a small way. Pachi and Christina took two days off work just to help us get settled in. Pachi rented a van and drove to Madrid to pick us up. We could have done it on our own but it would have been a LOT harder. They have shown true christian love to people they have never met.

Our First European Experience

We left our house at 2:00 pm (mst) and arrived at the home of Pachi and Christina at 10:00 pm (local Spanish time)the next day in Burgos Spain. Spain is 8 hours ahead of Spanish time which means it took 24 hours from door to door. The trip was uneventful for the most part. When we landed in London we had a 2 hour layover. We were very tired of course. There was a section of 4 seats we were sitting in just outside our departure gait for Spain. I stood up to get something from my pack (about 3 feet from my seat). As I was looking for it a Spanish man about 23yo started to sit down in my seat. Lynette told him that the seat was taken he sat down anyway. Our first experience with either not being heard, not being understood or just a plain rude European. It's a better story to think he was just rude but in reality he just didn't understand or hear. Anyway a long trip with a very friendly family to greet us at the end.

We leave one week from today. Things are getting a little more stressful each day. I picked up the new bike we will be riding in Spain. I guess this is really going to happen.

On August 25th the Cory Borup Family is going to Spain for 3 months. We hope to help Madison adjust to a school in Burgos Spain while at the same time reinforce Weston's and start Lynette and Cory's Spanish speaking skills. Besides improving language skills we hope to serve in the LDS Branch in anyway we can (which might be very difficult because of our lack of language skills, but that won't stop us from doing our best), and see some of Europe. 

There still is a lot to do. Lynette sees this as the perfect chance to get me do to all those little tasks that keep getting put off.  I think if they weren't important to do before now, why does that change just because we're going to be gone for a few months? But just like leaving a messy house to come home to, Lynette hates the idea of having "tasks" to come home to.

Madison is very excited to go on a year long adventure. She hopes to improve her already very good Spanish skills. Weston on the other hand has very mixed feelings. He's dreading the thought of having to translate for his parents who, in his opinion, have no chance of ever learning Spanish.  My fear is he may be right, and that will make it tough on him. However, tough isn't always bad. 

Well, there is my brief introduction to "Los Borups En Espania". I hope this blog serves as a way to communicate our experience in Spain to all those who care and maybe to some who don't.

Adios,  por ahora!