Celebrating six months on the GLM hospital ship

 

Tenerife, Spain feels like a place without seasons. I missed seeing the fall colors and putting on warm sweaters but also appreciate the lovely Canary Island weather. I continue to find time for a swim, outdoor restaurants and hiking.  Days are busy as I continue to learn ship life, and develop relationships and activities as a seafarer but not a mariner. Fortunately, there are talented men and women keeping the vessel operating in a smooth and safe way. Tonight I delivered my first EVER message to any congregation. Please refer to the prior Blog post if you wish to know more about my message.

A few highlights from my October on the GLM include:

1. The first photo shows my trip to the local Policia station to apply for my humanitarian VISA extension needed due to being over my allotted 90 days in an EU country. Then the Spanish immigration agents came aboard for a tour and the required signatures which provide the VISA extension. The photos show me becoming a resident of Spain for the next few months. The Global Mercy hospital ship remains in the Canary Island - Tenerife, Spain for the equipping phase.


2. In October, I enjoyed a night at the opera in Santa Cruz, Tenerife. The opera was Fuenteovejuna, a Spanish play believed to have been written in the early 1600s, and based upon a historical incident that took place in the village of Fuentovenjuna in Castile, in 1476.  The opera showed the importance of a community fighting for justice. The theme remains so important today. This moment of theater reminded me of how much I miss Minneapolis and the amazing theater in my home location. 


3.  Spending a night watching the sunset, and stargazing near the base of Mount Teide - highest elevation in Spain, and third highest volcano in the world, showed the night sky in a brilliant way.  


Sunset

Mount Teide - 

The Teide Volcano has been quiet for over 100 years.

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