21 October 2009
Dear Family,
We had a bit of a scare on Sunday night when the assistants called to say that Elder Padrones was to be transferred to another area in the mission. Another Elder from Spain who was waiting for his visa finally got it, and Elder Padrones (who is also waiting for his visa to the United States) was to replace him. We were put out by the news, and we worked hard to have a good last day together. The next morning, the assistants called to reverse the news. So we are the same as before. Elder Padrones had only packed his ties, which were easy to unroll. I had, however, already given him my green tie from Missionary Mall as part of the trainer tradition to give a tie when his trainee leaves or when the trainer leaves. He wore it that day. He also borrowed my apron to cook since Elder Froberg was borrowing his. The green tie and green apron go together well. But I'm going to keep the apron.
Today we are visiting the royal palace. It could be pretty busy since apparently admission is free for Spaniards on Wednesday. We are waiting in a long line outside. There is a cold wind and I am grateful for my gloves and scarf. This zipper scarf is a hit every time I pull it out.
We just got out of the royal palace, which is pretty neat. In addition to the large, ornate rooms, paintings and tapestries, there were collections of silverware, plates, medals and statues. Admission was free since we are legal residents of Spain. After we saw the palace, we crossed the square in front of the palace to the royal armory, which I liked twice as much because it had kings' armor, children's armor, horses' armor and Turkish armor (which was kept from battles against the Turks before America was discovered). As if that were not enough, also included were swords at least five feet long and primitive guns. The rifles were quite the sight. Some were 12 to 14 feet long and were mounted on little carts. After we left that area we went up the street a little ways and saw two mounted guards wearing feathered helmets. Elder Padrones guessed from the flags in front taht a representative from some middle-eastern country was inside and had been escorted by the guards to the palace. A lot of the architecture and art styles in the palace reminded me of the Madrid Temple. You might see what I mean when you come. Speaking of which, if I don't include it in my E-mail, it's fine with me if you come to pick me up. I trust that you'll take the necessary measures to keep me in line with the rules. You should receive a letter talking about what you need to do to pick me up.
We are now in the home of a member who is from the same town as Elder Padrones. They have made some paella for us to eat. I'll get to e-mail next.
Well, that's all I have room for at the moment. I love you very much and will be in contact again soon.
Happy Halloween!
Love,
Elder Ogden
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