We've had a full week now in our new hometown, and things have happened so fast!

New friends gathered here from Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK, and we had plenty of time for introductions, stories and mutual encouragement. The local pasticceria was delighted to have 40-odd happy people drinking endless coffee and enjoying each other's company. Some stayed four days, others a week.

Having arrived with just 6 nights' accommodation booked, in the morning of our 4th day we were thinking it might be time to start looking for an apartment, but felt clearly that we should simply wait. A couple of hours later at the café below the Goldney's second floor apartment, we were introduced to their rental agent. On learning we needed somewhere to live, he pointed up to the first floor of the same building and said there was a place available there!

It is yet to be confirmed with the owner, but it seems pretty certain we will be living on the Piazza Sirena in central Francavilla, in the same building as the people we have come to work with. The apartment is beautifully, freshly decorated and fully furnished - just a trip to the local IKEA for bed linen and towels, and we'll be done. Plus we'll be able to sleep six, so feel free to make travel plans! Our balconies are highlighted in pink below, with the views in each direction.

A large part of getting together over this weekend was to consider the projects and dreams for YWAM Francavilla, each of us thinking about our potential involvement. You can see them all here at https://www.ywambeachbase.com/about-1-1 and below are snapshots taken on the parcel of land that is dreamed of for the MintWood project.