Madrid, España {Temple trip and Plaza De Toro}

We were all pretty surprised when John was called to be the branch president of our little branch in Morocco. However, looking back, we now see all of the reasons why.  We were at the right place at the right time... exactly where the Lord needed us, and for exactly what he needed John to do. During his time as branch pres., he took the time to get to know everyone as an individual, personally and spiritually. One of his main focuses was to get everyone in the branch temple worthy and recommendations up to date. As soon as a general authority came through, everyone would take the opportunity to do an interview. Then came the fun part, planning a branch temple trip to Madrid. This has to be one of the most beautiful temples in the world. I always say that, but it was really gorgeous. We had such a wonderful time there. I got to complete the work for my grandmother during that trip. The moment we sealed her to my grandfather, my testimony grew immensely.

Men in black

While in Madrid, we just couldn't bare the thought of passing up the chance to see a bull fight.  I know some people don't agree with it and I won't get into that discussion.  But, I will say that learning about the art and sportsmanship, I gained a new perspective to the sport and really enjoyed watching it.  My maiden name is Alaniz which comes from Spain, and is a municipality near Sevilla... It's part of my heritage so I was thrilled for the chance to experience this.

Plaza Mayor 

This is the mommy in me, and pretty much every trip is me in this mode.  Keeping my kids from getting hit by a car, bycliclist, or animal. 

Madrid, España {i phone}

Our quaint little street

 

I'll never know how we were ever ok with allowing our 1 year old to take picture with a drunken crowd of Real Madrid fans

Last Trip to Rabat

Knowing that Sebastian's last volleyball game in Rabat was going to wrap up the sports season and ultimately our stay in Morocco, we decided to make the most of it. We squeezed in some sight seeing and John booked us a room at the Sofitel, because coincidently and lucky for me, it was Mother's Day weekend.  Sebastian played a great game for someone who had never played volleyball before.  He's a natural athlete and he always amazes me at how fast he catches on.

I've trained him well, he knows exactly which camera to look at.

I love the picture of these two scoping out the competition.  

Ahh the Sofitel, a luxury hotel... there are locations worldwide including Morocco.  If you've never stayed at one, in the words of Ferris Bueller " I highly recommend it, it's so choice"

We took the family to walk along the Kasbah Udayas, located near Sale´ where are favorite riad is. This area is just across the Rabat medina and is absolutely stunning for pictures any time of the day.  This was one of my all time favorite places to shoot and people watch.  We have so many special memories of this city.  We drove 1 1/2 hours there every Sunday rain or shine to worship and serve the Lord and His church.  We were so blessed in turn.