I went to the French consulate in Chicago for my visa appointment on Monday. The days leading up to my appointment were filled with the stress of tracking down letters from France, having my parents mail a letter that got sent to their address, getting documents notarized, buying a prepaid Express mail envelope, making copies and putting everything I might possibly need in a huge accordion file. It was just a little bit stressful (well, that might be an understatement).

My appointment ended up being only about 10 minutes long. I turned in my papers, answered some questions, had digital fingerprints done, paid taxes and an application fee and had my picture taken. Now, I am just waiting for my visa to come. Thank you for all of you who were praying and please continue to pray that my visa would be processed quickly!

Even though I was on a "business" trip, I got to have some fun along the way, visiting friends in Chicago and Minneapolis.

Here are some photo highlights:

I booked my plane ticket yesterday. One month from today, I will set foot for the first time on French soil.

My departure date is Feb. 18, exactly one year from the day a friend convinced me to "knock on the door" by sending an email to the team. Here's what I said:

Hi Toulouse team,
I attend Salem E-Free in Fargo-Moorhead, and Pastor Glen Stevens just returned and told us a bit about     the work you are doing in France. Could you tell me a little more about your ministry and needs? I would love         to find out how I might be able to assist you. Thanks!

Blessings,
Danielle

I didn't anticipate that one little email would turn into the beginning of a momentous faith journey. Since that time, I have been refined through tests and trials like bed bugs and running a marathon. I have learned perseverance. I seen the importance of community. I have learned that if I am going to be dependent on God, I can't try to do it all myself. I have seen God move mountains through prayer.

Now, I have to continue to trust God as I go to apply for my visa, wrap up final details here and prepare to embark on a new adventure.

To all of you who have surrounded me with your support of many kinds -- thank you. I would not have made it this far without God working through each of you.