approval

For those of you who have ever said, "I don't need your approval!" The truth is, you do. Approval. The final step in the ELCA candidacy process, and one I am happy to announce I made it through just this weekend! The South Dakota Synod is what I call home (even though I'm from MN, long story). I was nervous as heck driving over to Sioux Falls from my hometown of Worthington. Kevin and I swung through Sonic for a 44 ounce real fruit smoothie (they are the best, and HUGE!) Here's a tip: go between 2-4 for happy hour drink prices, and they are only $1. Such a great deal! It lasted us all the way back home AFTER the meeting! :)

I arrived before any of the other candidates and panel people. Eventually, Scott and Craig arrived. They helped calm my nerves a little. Finally, the flood of panel folks came walking in the office, and I was reminded of just how awesome they are. Kind, caring, friendly, and offering a tray of brownies to help relax us. For some people, approval can be a complete nightmare depending on the panel, and I'll speak for myself and say how thankful I was for a panel who "got" me, even though I had never met half of them. Checking "approval" off my list with a huge THANKS to the SD Synod for their hard work and time!