Our senior couple, the Brysons, say "до сбидания" (goodbye)

On February 11, Elder and Sister Bryson departed the Russia Vladivostok Mission after faithfully serving for 18 months. They lived in three cities beginning in Irkutsk, Ussuriysk, Nakhodka, then back to Irkutsk where they completed their mission. During his service, Elder Bryson enthusiastically served as a Branch President...in both Ussuriysk and in Nakhodka, and was the Group Leader of the newly-formed Angarsk Group. Sister Bryson lifted the sisters of the branches with her experience in Relief Society and her amazing cooking and sewing skills. They spent many hours visiting less actives and members, counseling and training. Sister Bryson spent time learning the Russian language and shared her closing testimony in Russian. Elder Bryson shared some thoughts in Russian as well.

 In this photo, the Brysons are departing the Irkutsk Branch Building for the last time.

 Elder Bryson stands with a beloved member of the Angarsk Group.

 Sister Bryson stands with a member of the Irkutsk Branch. The Brysons cooked many a meal for the Young Single Adults of the branches where they served as well as held Family Home Evenings for them on Monday evenings. Delicious lunches were provided weekly for the missionaries just ahead of District Meeting.

 In a recent talent show in Irkutsk, Sister Bryson demonstrated how to make delicious cookies as her talent...

 ...while Elder Bryson "brought down the house" as "Mr. Magic". He involves members of the audience and does his famous trick of cracking a runny egg on an audience members' head. Before they left, a member of the branch successfully cracked a runny egg on his head as well :)

Because the Brysons flew home going west through Moscow from Irkutsk, they didn't return to Vladivostok. They did leave their tie/scarf and name badges, though, which have taken their places on the "Wall of Fame" in the Mission Home. We will miss the Brysons and will always appreciate the loving service they rendered to so many. They have returned home to Central, Arizona to be with their four children and numerous grandchildren. Of note, the Brysons plan to serve another mission and would love to return to Russia again!