Snail-sized progress

Eureka! After harassing people in multiple hemispheres, I finally got a response from Paris with a direct line to contact at the consulate.

I was even more impressed when I called and they knew exactly who I was. (I'm famous!) This moment of glory was immediately dashed by the announcement that they haven't yet received the necessary documents from the OFII. (Here's your refresher on how visas are made.)

They politely took my number and promised to call as soon as the dossiers arrive from Paris. Then they asked if I knew "Madame Jones," the other exchange teacher in their zone. I did. She has an appointment tomorrow, they told me, but perhaps I should call her and tell her not to come all that way for nothing? (Perhaps I should call her? Seriously?)

But I did, and she had a heart attack, because she has a flight booked. I am in awe of her gumption; she's going anyway. Fingers crossed! I, meanwhile, will continue to languish on the couch until they get around to calling me back. I am worn out.