Baptism in the sea

         Feb.18 we were thrilled to have a baptism.  Anna was baptized in a calm little cove called Port Soif on the north side of the island.   Sweet warm sunshine made the day even more wonderful.
              She was baptized by Elder Hardy.  He and E.Albacite began teaching her in December.

                               
                                         Several branch members were able to attend.

         In general, February weather was cold and rainy; that same weekend on Sunday night a tight                               fog settled in which interfered with ferries and flights for several days.
                     This picture was taken Monday morning looking out our bedroom window,                                                                      overlooking the glass conservatory.

In spite of cool weather, flowers are starting to bloom.  

Daffodils are blooming everywhere ... in yards, in fields, and on dirt mounds by the roads.

The Elders brought us a pretty bouquet to tell us thanks for what we do to help them :)

Feb. 21 Elder Hardy was transferred to Plymouth.   It took 3 trips to the airport that Tuesday, before he was finally on his way... as his flight kept being cancelled or delayed due to the fog.

So there were several goodbyes throughout the day :)

His replacement arrived in the evening when the fog had thinned out more.

Elder Sullivan is from St.George, Utah and has been out 20 months. 

He has a calm gentle personality, and is a great Elder. 

Oxford/ Sr.Couples

                      We flew to the mainland Feb. 2  to attend the Senior Couples conference in Oxford.

From the airport, we took a taxi to the Temple Accommodations Center.

Visited briefly with office missionaries, then did 2 temple sessions that afternoon.

Next morning we rode with other couples in mission vans to Oxford.

Were given a tour of Oxford University - lead by Bishop Tootle of the Oxford ward who works in Security at the college.

The buildings are amazing.

As was this very odd tree ... it's branches supported by posts.

It's probably very beautiful when fully adorned with leaves. 

And this large bush had unique flower strands ...

We got to go inside an ancient library; it is like a museum - you can't touch the books...there are electric sensors protecting them.   Only certain persons can "check out" the books and view them on special tables. 

The library ceiling was a work of art ..

Late afternoon we checked into our hotel, then met at the Oxford chapel for our conference.

We love being with these wonderful people.

Saturday morning we drove a short distance to tour the Blenheim Palace.

The palace was built in 1705.   It was the principle residence of the Duke of Marlborough.

It is the birth place of Sir Winston Churchill; there was one room that was a museum to his history and accomplishments.

Surrounding the palace are gardens and parks, lakes and forests.