YES!!!
Doing the happy dance!!!
: )

I sure hope that means cases in the investigations area also!! I have been waiting for them to just write up a report so we can get back into regular PGN!!

Our investigation was really on the woman who signed my babies bc, they said they had to check if she was a ligitamate midwife. She was and as far as I know the investigation is done and I am just waiting for them to write a report and MOVE ON already!! We have been in PGN since April 17. I am sooo glad to hear the good news!
Let's all keep praying our little ones come home soon!! I just came back from a visit trip, our daughter is almost 9 months I am hoping and very optimistic we will get her soon!! GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF US!!

Monica

I second Monica's comment about investigations. It is great to see PGN is moving and I am happy for those families and babies, but I admit I am sad for us and our daughter when so many folks that entered PGN way after us are getting out.
On July 12th we were told there was only one thing left to do in our investigation (travel to the bm's hometown to verify something at City Hall). Yesterday we found out this has STILL not been done. Someone told our attorney that the investigation would be compledted and returned to PGN within 2 weeks. My fear then is that we will have to wait the 7-8 weeks PGN appears to be running at this point. We entered PGN March 28th and our daughter (2 1/2 weeks at referral) is now 8 1/2 months old. If we do have to go through PGN again after the investigation, I fear we won't even have her home for her first birthday. I can't think about her w/o crying anymore.
I am glad PGN is ensuring our adoption is legal, but I wish they could have done it in a more timely manner.
Sorry this turned into a vent...

Our attorney called yesterday to tell us that 200 cases had been signed by the Sub. General Attorney. Not all of them are approvals, but at least we are seeing some movement. We are still waiting to see if we are one of the cases. Let's all hope we hear good news soon!

Susana Luarca, You found out information on PGN outs and problems. Can you please help those of us stuck in family court waiting for a social worker report? Apparently, there is a backlog of social worker reports to be issued. Can you find out why they are taking such a long time to write social worker reports??? Any information will be greatly appreciated!!!!! God bless you for all your hard work and for this website. I don't know what I would do without it!!!!!! Thanks, Lisa

That is super news. Maybe we will get out finally. Susana thank you for your hard work and keeping us updated.

I am with you Monica! I have been in investigations since March 15, 2006!! Yes, by all means make sure everything on the file is correct but please, our baby is almost 10 months old!! And we are not even in PGN yet!!! Does anyone have an idea about when investigation files will start to move??

I hope we are all home soon with out little angels!!

Nina

I have been checking into this website and it has helped me, so I just to let people know we just got out of PGN after 6 weeks on the nose after one resubmittion. There is hope. Hang in there.

Melissa

Just wanted to add to this, because 2 people from my agency got out of PGN this week, and our case left investigations, very unexpectedly, as well! AMY - I know what you're going through!! We've been in PGN since January, and our baby is now a year old and obviously he won't be home. Just hang in there and know you're not alone!!

Susanna,

Thank you so much for that great information. I also am waiting for a social worker's report to be issued. Have been in family court for 4 months and am getting so frustrated. Anything you might be able to find out? I really appreciate it. Thanks for all you do.

Stacy

Yvonne, Yeah...out of investigations!!! You have been in PGN WAY too long. I hope your little one is home VERY soon. Just curious...do you know how long you were in the investigation section and why you were there? We were sent "randomly"!?!? and were not given a date our case was sent there. July 10th is the first we knew of it.
Thanks, Amy

This "new" lawyer - is it an additional lawyer to complete the initial review of cases, or is this lawyer sitting next to Barrios (so-to-speak) and helping with Firma Final?

We were one of the outs on 8/10. We entered 6/13 and had one k/o. There were 5 that on are our agency support listing that were released on the same day. My husband returned from Guat 8/8 and said there were sooooooooo many people taking their babies home so I do think it is moving. Hope everyone hears great news soon.

Just got the call from the agency, we are OUT FINAL! I never thought the day would come to actually post this!!!!!

Time line as folows:

Chris Jr born: 2/6
Referral: 3/7
Enter PGN: 5/26
Kicked out: 6/26
Back in PGN: 7/5

OUT FINAL!!! 8/10!!!!!!!!!!!!

Come on Pink and BC!!!!

Congrats to all the outs! Now what about the minors section?? To echo what has already been stated, I'm another PGN looooong-timer (10+months) and have been in investigation for over three months. I'm hoping this section of the PGN will start to move but until then I suppose we can only hope for the best.

It’s interesting to read about the communication others receive from their agencies, updating them on the progress of their cases and those of other clients. It sure would be nice to receive such an encouraging word from time to time. Our agency, on the other hand, has done (and continues to do) a very poor job in communicating with us. When I called them last week with a question, they were entirely way too slow in responding, in my opinion. It was only when I called them with an apparent crisis that we got any attention. I certainly haven’t had any reason to feel confident that anyone’s paying attention to our case. Maybe they are, but the agency has provided little evidence of such.

Nevertheless, we learned yesterday from a trusted source (NOT our agency) that our case – submitted 5/26, “kicked out” and resubmitted on 7/6 – will likely exit PGN at the end of next week. Wish us luck and keep us in your prayers. Like all, we’re eager to bring our baby home!

200 outs yesterday. And how many today. Doesn't seem to be moving today. Any word ?
thanks

We too are stuck in investigation and have no idea when we went in. We were told about it after the birth mom (who is not a minor!) was already interviewed! That was over 3 1/2 weeks ago. I don't know why we are in investigation or why the birth mom had to be interviewed. I'm getting very frustrated seeing all of the outs for people who enterd PGN in June. We entered April 17 and the only update we've had is that we're in investigation for no known reason! Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy for the outs and I'm glad things are moving, but I want my little guy home too! I would appreciate any information from anyone else stuck in investigation.

Gregg and Esperanza, can you email me and let me know what "trusted source" gave you your information about exiting PGN. We have been in since the first week of May.

thanks

Gregg, how did you get your "trusted source"? the info sounds wonderful!!!!
shari

Heather,

My case was in investigation from March 1 to the end of June. From what I understand there is little information your attorney can get while the case is in investigation.
Hopefully with PGN moving faster,
you won't be stuck in investigation as long as I was. I have seen many investigation cases get released recently. I am still waiting to get out of PGN, but hoping to hear something soon.
I first went in on February 8.
Good luck to you.

Gregg and Esperanza, can you e-mail us as well with your contact info.
Thanks so much.

We to have been in since June1st we are now told, previously we were told June 6th. No news on anything and hav ebeen told by our agency that they can't tell you anything about where your case is in PGN except that it's in PGN, Is this true? If the 1st date is correct we are now entering our 11th week.

Hi Heather,

I too am in investigations now. I understand how you feel. We have been in PGN since April also and found out we were in investigations in July. You "should" be able to get the reason "why" you are in an investigation from your agency. It sounds like you might be in the same boat as us.

They interviewed our bm again because they said the doctor who signed our babies birthcertficate was being investigated. They told us that ALL the babies born in the city of Barbarina were being investigated and that this woman was already proved to be legit. So I do not know what the hold up is but you should be able to at least find out why?? I hope you do and I hope ALL of us in investigations get our good news too. I,like you,am happy for all of these "OUTS" but would love to see those of us sitting in limbo to start moving too!!

My best to you all!

Monica

Our baby was done with PGN and we were told just 4-6 weeks now for a court date to come and get him. It is over 2 months now and still no court date. He was 4 months old when we started and now he is almost over 17 months.

We are beginning to believe we will never see him. We have already lost 2 sets of twins in this adoption process and have been trying for over 2 years to make an adoption happen. This is alot of grief for everyone in our family to deal with. It has been a different "error" every time according to the agency. I am sure losing faith in our agency too. For over two years all we hear is, " just two more weeks or just four more weeks. How long are we supposed to keep faith?

Does anyone have any experience with adoptions from other countries? Frankly our family is getting ripped to pieces with this process.

I've been watching your site for updates (in between communications with my agency) and I'm happy to say, after 8 weeks we are OUT!!!!
In civil registry and only a few more weeks before my baby boy gets home!!! He is my first and I can't wait!!!

Joannie - CONGRATUALATIONS!!!

Since your experience is about the exact opposite in terms of making "the system" work for your family so you can adopt a baby (ie. yours has been so "easy.") Are we allowed to ask over this site who your agency is? It might help us make further decisions since after 2 + years we still are unable to get going without errors done either by our agency, the US Govt or being told by the Guatemalan govt. for months and months that everything is fine and that all is moving well, BUT nothing ever happens. Even our court date to come get our baby never happens. Maybe some agencies are a great deal better than others. Is there some way we can talk openly about agencies??

It saddens me to hear of people whose agencies don't communicate with them like Gregg's. I think this should be a lesson to everyone to research,research,research. Ask lots of questions of people who have used them before.

My agency is sooo good at communication and I am so very thankful.

I got out of PGN this week(Aug 9) after just shy of 7 weeks(no KOs). Referral was April 7.

Ruth-just a quick note:
I know how you feel. It is very painful losing a referral, especially two. It is a referral to some, but to us awaiting parrents, it is a child, in your and in my case, actually two! I know it is very hard to hold on, even when prayers seem to go unanswered for the time being, but please know that the child that is meant for you will come home to you. In the meanwhile, be as proactive as possible with your agency and advocate for your child. This is perfect evidence of what I have been talking about in previous emails: Why is there so much inconsistency with adoption
agencies and the Guatemalan Family Court system?

Gregg-

My husband and I also have a "trusted" source for PGN info...I'm curious to see if you and I have the same trusted source as you seem to be told similar information to me, yet we have different time frames for PGN.

I can be reached at lalia@mgcmarco.com

Here I am so exicted PGN is moving, with the last re-entery date for me being July 14....so I am thinking I am next. HOWEVER, now I have seen so many people ko'd for not having the tildes on the POA when they are on the Birth certificate. Mine is this way, too, but I have not been ko'd for this yet. Is this something that they are now nailing everyone for, or are they being picky with just a few cases?????

So happy to see the outs, and hoping that we will be soon too.

For those who had super-fast processes, please remember there are chance factors as well as agency factors that affect how fast you finish. For example, where you happen to be in the process when a certain stage slows way down -- or speeds back up. Or case-related difficulties that may not have been apparent on first referral. Even the best agencies have faster and slower cases.

That said, for people whose agency seems to be beyond-the-bell-curve slow and/or is not communicating with them about what is going on, it might be worth thinking about Adoption Supervisors. It seems like they bring clarity to a lot of situations.

I feel as though I am in a horrible dream and can't wake up. I rec'd my referral when my daughter was only 4 days old. She is now going on 13 months old. I can't seem to get honest communication from my agency. I am being passed off from social worker to social worker for information. I asked to get an address or contact for Adoption Supervisors and contacted the one address. Someone called me back and spoke with me three times giving me more information in those few conversations than I've had in one year from my agency. Now, I'm afraid that I have contacted the Adoption Supervisors that everyone is saying is NOT legitimate. How do we know? I have been in PGN since 3/15/06 and kicked out twice for issues over birth certificates. Now being told I am in Civil Registry and that's been almost 7 weeks and they tell me it shouldn't take that long. I feel as though I'm in the Bermuda Triangle, everything is going wrong. Who can help? Trust for the agency and attorney at this point has gone sour. If anyone has information or contacts that can help, please email me. Pam

I think it's great that PGN seems to be moving along a little better and so many are able to bring home their little ones, however, seems that there are still plenty of us out there who have waited a year or more. Does anyone have information or experiences on using the Adoption Supervisors and if so, which agency did you use? Servicios Juridicos Integrados ( Adoption Supervisor) or this new agency that is on the web as Adoptionsupervisors.com? If the last one, has anyone contacted you by telephone? Did you send money and have they actually helped you? Good luck to everyone. God bless the children.

I am so very happy to hear all the great news about so many getting out of PGN...Congrats to all! I hope I am out soon as well. I went into PGN the first week of july, not sure of the exact date and I am waiting patiently to bring my son home...He is 5 months old on the 15th of August. I hope I hear the great news soon. Hang in there everyone, remember, its the children that matter most, this is worth the wait!
I am praying that the progress continues with PGN and we all bring our children home soon.

At long last, I too am out of PGN! So, it looks like the backlog if finally coming to an end. I went in originally 4/11, bumped out 5/13. Backin 5/31 and out 8/11. All my best to the rest of you eagerly waiting to hold your precious ones!

I would like information on the contacts that Gregg and Nadia are talking about. And also, our agency is terrible at giving out info. We are reasearching for adoption #2 - any good agency info appreciated (or bad for that matter !!)
Al- pls e-mail with your agency info. Your timeline looks wonderful and if your agency is communicative, all the better !! Thanks all.

here is my e-mail.

sands34j@yahoo.com

looking for info from Al, Gregg and Nadia.

thanks

Shelly

I enlisted the second or last AS group you mentioned in your comment. I contacted them first, received an email requesting more information so they could determine if they would be able to help, then received another email listing the ways they could help and the break down of fees. I have been in PGN since Nov 28, 2005 and enlisted their services the second week of July. Since that time, my file has gotten out of investigation where it was for 7.5 months and is now on the sub attorney general's desk for final approval. What this AS group did for me was to meet with the key people to discuss the case at each step and I believe it was this attention to the case that move the case much faster then if it had been left alone. The AS attorney met with the sub attorney last Friday to discuss my case so my hope is to hear good news this week.

No one will contact you via phone unless you agree to enlist their services. After that point you will speak very often with the attorney who is assigned to your case. It was so very refreshing to have someone so knowledgable of the PGN processes and adoption laws being so proactive.

I cannot speak for the Servicios Juridicos Integrados since I enlisted the services of the other group.

Also, if your case in is what is considered the normal timeframe of PGN, this AS group will let you know that their services may not be required at this time and provide you with helpful tips on what you should be looking for and asking your attorney.

Best of luck

Laurie

Laurie I beleive you have the wrong AS. Servicios Juridicos Integrados is the legitimate Firm.I hired them before I even heard abotu the AS.Com. The one I mention is a reputable Lawfirm and they are Edwin and Manfred. Check it out. Best of Luck!

Marie, thank you so much for your kindness to reach out to our family. Especially the second set of twins - they had been in our lives with monthly videos, "please name your babies" etc. for 9 months and to lose them, was no different than when someone "miscarries." Please know that I am very grateful for your kind words to us.

I don't think we reach out to one another enough through this message system. There is alot of pain written about on these notes, but we are so stuck in our own pain we seem unable to reach out to each other. Maybe we should do more of this. I know how good this feels thank to Marie.

Pamella - I do feel for you. We have seen our baby grow from 6 months to 17++ and still no arrival. You must have felt as though you could start out with a brand new baby and now you are looking at receiving a toddler. We are 8 weeks waiting for what I guess is called Civil Registry - so maybe there is a big backlog. Maybe we are both actually down to the wire and just have to hang on like Marie said.
Please know that I have you ALL in my heart and prayers as well as our own precious baby. We are all in this together.

Good News!!!!We Are OUT!!!!!YEAHHHHHH!!after 5 long months in PGN we finally get to bring our baby girl home,just before her 1st birthday!!YEAHHHHHH!!!!!!good luck to all you PGN waiters.
Alley

Congratualtions Alley!!!!

We thought we would be one of those getting out of PGN this week but we are still waiting. Our agency had 3 other families get out so it gives me a little glimmer of hope. One famiy was submitted the same week as us (June 12th) and the other two were two weeks before that. As crushing as it is to hear we were not one of them, I'm still hopeful we'll be out soon.

Kim - I hired Adoption Supervisors Guatemala and they are a legitimate firm as well.

Thanks
Laurie

After 4 months and 2 KOs we are finally out!!!!! I can't believe we get to actually bring our little boy home. He will be 9 months old when we bring him home.
I'm so excited. It looks like things are finally moving and I'm praying for everyone still waiting. I know it can't be much longer.

HI ALL- I JUST WANTED TO SAY AFTER READING ALL THE STORIES ON THIS WEB SITE, I THOUGHT MY AGENCY WAS BAD, BUT NOW I REALIZE THEY REALLY ARE GREAT! I HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH WITH THEM EVERY WEEK, I CALL THEM & THE PROGRAM COORDINATOR EITHER EMAILS ME WITH ANY NEWS OR SHE CALLS ME. IN THE BEGINNING SHE DID NOT CONTACT ANY OF THE FAMILIES, BUT AFTER ALOT OF COMPLAINTS, THE AGENCY IS NOW HAVING HER CONTACT THE FAMILIES AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK, EVEN IF THERE IS NO NEWS. ANYONE WHO IS READING THIS: DO NOT BE AFRAID TO CALL YOUR AGENCY & COMPLAIN TO THE MANAGERS OF THE PROGRAM COORDINATORS!! AFTER THE COMPLAINTS I AM SURE YOU WILL BE UPDATED! ALSO DON'T BE AFRAID TO KEEP CALLING, THE MORE YOU CALL THE MORE THEY WILL WANT TO HELP YOU, BE ASSERTIVE, BUT DO IT NICELY, NOT DEMANDING, JUST PLEA FOR THEIR HELP! EXPLAIN YOUR FRUSTRATION & HEARTACHE! THEY WILL BE SYMPATHETIC BELIEVE ME, I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE, THIS IS MY 2ND ADOPTION WITH THE SAME AGENCY. GOOD LUCK TO ALL & PRAYING ALL OF OUR CHILDREN A SAFE & QUICK HOMECOMING!!

ROSEMARIE

I will be happy to give info regarding how we are finding out about PGN, but only after we have exited. I hope you all understand, but I don't want to risk our current situation.

As it is, we are in PGN for 19 weeks as of today. Every day is precious as our son gets older. He is 9 1/2 months old already. We are just hoping to have him home for his first birthday at this rate.

As soon as we exit and have the protocolo signed, I will be more than happy to email with anybody who wishes regarding our situation.

Thanks for your understanding and congrats to all those that have exited!

Also doing the happy dance!!! Entered PGN June 22 - got the good news phone call yesterday! We are out after 7 weeks and no KOs!!! We hope and pray all of you are out soon!

So. . .this weeks outs, are they from last week or yesterday? Does anyone know?

Can anybody PLEASE tell me about how long it takes to get preapproval from the Embassy after they have received the DNA results and dossier??

CML:

Our DNA test was done March 6,2006
Family court was March 22, 2006 our pre-approval came on April 7, 2006, and we entered PGN on April 11, 20006. Hope this helps.

Just looking at this web site and the commentary has been more helpful than any information we have received from our agency in the past 9 months. We received our referral in June of 2005. Into PGN in December, and lots of contradictory meaningless information ever since, with no end in sight. As many of you know, it has been very trying. We'd love to hear about any sources of "real" information. Thanks for all these comments.

CML--For me, DNA results were received June 19 and Preapproval is listed as June 29

Hi CML-
RE: Your question about the time it takes to receive pre-approval from the USEmbassy upon receipt of the DNA and dossier, it could take from a couple of days to up to 2-3weeks.
They are pretty good at responding in a timely manner. You, your attorney and your agency will get an email from the USEmbassy stating that your preapproval has been issued. This is a major step, because when your attorney brings your case to the PGN, it cannot exit PGN until the USEmbassy has given the pre-approval. Remember, you also need your Social worker report on the birth mother and documents filed in Family Court. Hope you can share good news soon:)
Marie

Congrats to those who have made it out of PGN – I certainly want to do that happy dance with you! We have been in PGN since April with two KO’s - our last re-entry date being July 18th. This is a very anxious week indeed. Any news if PGN cleared June cases and are starting on July? I did read on that Vicki was approved last week with a July 5th re –entry date; however I didn't know if that was just a coincidence.
This is our second time adopting from Guatemala. I will say for certain that when you bring your baby home you will forget all about this mess that we are experiencing today. The very second I held our son in my arms and I knew we were all going home together I felt so alive – a feeling that I can’t wait for each of you to share. Words cannot describe how incredible you will feel. Our little guy was 10 months old yesterday - we just can’t wait to bring him home! I am keeping my fingers crossed for all of us!

CML - It only took our preapproval about 3 days from the time that the DNR results came back. It was quick. It was an email...

My son was born Feb 7th 2006 I have been to Guatemala twice to visit with him. All my docs. are with the PGN since June with the exception of the DNA - which was just received by our attorney 3 weeks ago. We are waiting to be rejected to resubmit..the last document. Does anyone have any understanding of what happens upon a resubmission and the length of time it takes. My 1st son was born Oct 2, 2002 and home in March 2002.... at 5 months old - no issues arose from the PGN at that time. Does anyone have any input......time and bonding is so important at this critical age....as we all know

CML, we got DNA results at the beginning of the month and we recieved preapproval at the end of the same month. Hope that helps, Lisa

CML, Our Dossier went to Guatemala in November, our DNA test was done in January and we had pre-approval in February. We then entered PGN a week later. Hope this helps... good luck!

Hi Karen, it's Vicki

After I got out final I read some posts on yahoo who also got out and had late June, early July enter/reenter dates. There seemed to be more late June, but a fair amount of early July. Check out yahoo for last week and see what you can find. Also some on adoption.com. Or, who knows at this point- I just think the file was on his desk when he decided to sign off. No rhyme or reason to any of this! Hope you are final very very soon!!
Vicki

Rosemarie, would you mind e-mailing me you agency info.
thanks
sands34j@yahoo.com

j. sands...

Out! I can't believe it! Truly surprised today!

Timeline:
Our daughter was born: 1/28
Into PGN: 4/16
1st Previo: 5/15
2nd Previo: 6/16
OUT!: 8/16

Just for referrence, both of our previos were considered extremely trival.

Yea!

our daughter was born 4-12-06 and we visited her the first week in august(yes she is so precious)this is our 1st so we(ok mostly me ) are going insane. we still are waiting on DNA to be done.I have been told that it will be "any time now" for a few weeks. thank you for all your post,it is very helpful to see what other families are doing and feeling.I hope PGN starts moving faster and we all have our angels home soon.

Thank you for the information Vicki - I am so happy for all of you that have this PGN nightmare behind you! For the rest of us still waiting; lets go, lets go, lets go - we want out! :)

Does anyone have any info as to how long a BC from Villa Nueva might take? Thanks all! Waiting for BC and pink, out final 8/10
FINALLY!
Good luck to all...I'm thinking of Fed-Ex'ing some papermate pens to the director so he has enough ink to sign off!!!!
Maybe throw in a chair massage???

Vicki

This is my first time posting here. I have really gotten encouragement from reading all of your posts. My son was born 2-15-06 and I entered PGN The first week of July. I'm praying for a OUT soon... I'm praying for everybody who has been in PGN that we all get our babies home and SOON.

DNA test done: 5/8
Results back: 5/15
Pre-approval: 6/19

The pre-approval took awhile, but I emailed the Embassy, got the form email in reply, sent them the information they wanted, and then the pre-approval came.

Entered PGN 7/10
Waiting...
Our son was born 3/25

Karen,

We have virtually the same timelines, entering in April, 2 KO's with the most recent re-submission of July 13th for us....the wait is unbearable.

I'm with you - anxiously awaiting news.

We were kicked out of PGN yesterday because of an accent mark over the "e" in Jose on our Power of Attorney form and there was no accent mark on his name in any of the other documents. PGN has a god complex at the expense of innocent children.

We entered PGN in November of 2005 and we are still waiting. Anyone else have such a long PGN wait and have any info as to why? We have gotten the standard answers from our agency.

HEY ALL-
I JUST HEARD FROM MY AGENCY A FEW MINS AGO, THAT PGN IS NOW UP TO JULY 17,2006 CASES (CASES W/NO MORE PROBLEMS) ACCORDING TO THE ATTORNEY THAT IS WORKING ON MY CASE. HOPEFULLY MINE WILL NOT BE K/O AGAIN, IT WILL BE A 3RD K/O, MY CASE WAS RE-ENTRD 7/18/06, BUT WE SHALL SEE, IT IS SOOO HARD TO STAY POSITIVE!! I AM TRYING THOUGH!
PLEASE IF ANYONE HEARS ANYTHING ELSE LET US ALL KNOW. THANKS.

ROSEMARIE

Oh, that's terrible! How are you handling the wait? I'm driving myself crazy after only 2 months!

I've been in since 1/17/06. My referral was accepted 3/11/05. My daughter is now 18 months of age. I feel like this nightmare of PGN will never end. Whatever happened to the idea of being caught up on cases in 15 working days? I certainly had hoped I would have been one of the lucky cases to have been released. But it hasn't happened.

WE ARE OUT OF PGN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(and definitely doing the happy dance!!!!)

Gregg and Esperanza

Keith,

Are you in Minors Section? We may have the same attorney. You may send me PM at

beckern65@gmail.com.

We have been in Minors since March 15, 2006.

Good luck!

Nina

I have been in PGN since Feb 8. I was in the Minor's section from March 1 to the end of June. My case then received 2 previos and was resubmitted on July 18. Hopefully all of us who have been stuck in PGNso long will hear something soon.

We have been in PGN since mid Dec. 2005. WE've been KO'd a few times for little reasons like updated medical needed, and the most recent: the notary in Guate. sometimes used accents in her name and sometimes didn't on documents. Our lawyer has talked with someone 'in charge' last week, and still getting the run around...that they'll look at the case again (though they did look at it last week and said there isn't a good reason that we aren't approved) and get back to us in another 3 weeks or so.It can be so hard not to get angry and to keep the faith. I know one day our daughter will be home. But I wish I knew more why we have been doing this PGN dance for so long. We did go visit her last month which was wonderful, though we miss her all the more. What a glorious day it will be when we get the call to bring her home finally! So we understand how hard it's been for those of us who have been waiting in PGN for months and months.

For those of us who ran faster than they ever thought they could every single time the phone rang this week - you are not alone! Lets hope next week will be better for all of us.
Thank you for all of the updates - they certainly help!

For those keeping track of dates, our case went to PGN on 5/26, was kicked out for a minor previo on 7/6 and resubmitted the same day.

It seemed like the wait took forever, but after 12 weeks we're finally out of PGN (as of yesterday, August 17). Now bring on the PINK!!!

Gregg

GREAT NEWS OUT OF PGN !!!!!! MY SINGLE DAUGHTER JUST GOT WORD YESTERDAY MY GRANDSON IS ONE STEP CLOSER TO COMING HOME. WE CAN HARDLY WAIT. THE ADOPTION AGENCY SAID HE SHOULD BE OUT OF CIVAL REGISTRYBY NEXT FRIDAY, AND THEN HOPEFULLY WE WILL GO GET HIM WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS. WHAT AWAITING GAME IT HAS BEEN. WE LOVE THE WEB SITE IT HAS REALLY BEEN GREAT TO SEE EVERYONES TIME FRAMES AND STORIES.HERS WAS CLOSE TO THIS FEB.-REFERRAL MAY-PGN AND KICKED OUT SHORTLY AFTER JULY 4 BACK IN NOW OUT OF PGN AUG. 18 GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE WAITING AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL THE KIDS WAITING TO COME HOME.

CONGRATULATIONS GREGG!!! I AM HOPING I GET OUT NEXT WEEK MY DATE FOR RE-SUBMISSION IS 7/18/06, WE SHALL SEE, I'VE HAD 2 K/O'S ALREADY, BUT I DON'T WANT TO GET MY HOPES WAY TOO HIGH!! I WANT TO THE HAPPY DANCE W/ANYONE WHO EXITS!! HOPE YOU GET THE PINK REAL SOON! GOOD LUCK!

ROSEMARIE

That's great that they're getting caught up. We were resubmitted 7/12 so I guess that must mean there's another problem with ours. Too bad. But hopefully they'll be caught up when we go back in (if we get kicked out) and it'll move faster the third time around!

We have been waiting in PGN since Feb with 2 kick outs (the last mid-May) and accepted our son's referal last August. Several of my friends waiting, have cleared. I, too, prayed every prayer and wondered why God would do this because my son turned 1 while we waited. Last week, I realized God knows better then we ever will. On Wednesday night a week ago, my mother was hospitalized and her breast cancer came back after 9 years. Her cancer is in other parts of her body including brain tumors. In the past few weeks these have caused her not to be able to walk. My father also found out the week before that he has some eye problems. My parents were going to take care of my son when I returned to work and my husband and I would have already been back. If things had gone as "I" had planned, I would have returned to work and he would have been with my parents. It dawned on me today, my mother could have fell and not been able to get up, and with my father's failing eyesight they may have missed something my son had done. I know he is with a very loving and caring foster family. Also, with everything we have had to do with doctor's appts, hospitals etc we have been so busy. I am not writing this for sympathy as the doctor's are hopeful. I just wanted to tell my story to let those of you know who are waiting, that maybe there is a reason that you don't understand. I didn't understand before. God has a plan bigger then mine and knows what He is doing because we have had so much to do in the past few weeks. I still will love to hear we have cleared and we all are looking forward to having him home. I am trusting God now for his perfect timing.

For all of you still waiting, I pray for peace while you wait and for PGN to move on your case so you can bring your child home soon.

God Bless, MS

To Rebecca R. My son was born feb 7 2006. we entered the PGN 1st week in July. Just like u. We have no word from our agency as to where we stand. If you have any information from your agency, please advise. Thank u.

We went into PGN on June 15th, and we've heard nothing. Anyone else in the same boat in terms of time frame and not hearing from PGN?

To Keith and Penny. We have also been in PGN for a LONG time- since Feb 2, 2006. I hate this for all of us but its good to hear from fellow "waiters". Praying we all have pinks soon!

Paula

Congrats Gregg and Esperanza and thank you for your post. Seeing your timeframe put me in a hopeful mood before bed last night. We entered PGN 5/31/06. Our case, also, got kicked out for a minor previo on 7/6/06 and reentered the same day. Not too much longer, I hope. Here's to a speedy pink for you. Blessings and peace to all of you out there.

Dana and Mike-

We entered PGN on June 13th and are still waiting. Our agency tells us they are catching up to June 19th submittals but I've also seen a reference to a July 17th date. The wait continues...we are so ready to bring our little guy home. Here's hoping and praying for many, many "outs" this coming week!

I apologize for not posting in a while, but I've been here in Guatemala since August 8th, with our daughter, Lily Rae.

We came out of PGN on July 25th, and I had already planned a visit trip, to meet other adopting friends here - so... I kept the trip, and decided to just stay until the embassy appointment. The hard thing about making the trip, was that my friend was NOT out of PGN, and I was dreading the day she would have to give her daughter back to her foster mother, and have to look at me with my daughter going home. But... God answers prayers in his timing. We had just arrived at the Westin, and we were getting our girls from foster mothers, when they received a phone call notifying them that she, too, had been released from PGN. Praise God, and his wonderful work!! You can imagine the emotion in the Westin lobby. We must have scared everyone here. Her case was one of those that seemed to be lost, prior to the "sequential order" of PGN outs.

That evening, I received an email notifying me of another friend receiving their out. What great news!!

We came out of PGN on July 25th, and have our embassy appointment scheduled for Tuesday, August 22nd. We will be home this WEEK!!!

I continue to pray for all of you still waiting for your phone calls, and that PGN will continue to pick up speed.

Love & prayers to all,
Cheri F

Has anyone heard of any updates regarding the challenges with social worker reports being filed with Family Court? We are going on 5 weeks since the interview. Let's hope for some good news this week!!!

Monica - we are having the same problem - everything moved smoothly till FC and our agancy provides us with little info as to how we are progressing. We rec'd our ref'l in May and DNA, PA has alrady been rec'd.

NWT,
It sounds like we are in the same situation. Here is our timeline:
Referral 5/4
POA 5/13
DNA completed 6/12
DNA confirmed 6/19
Pre-Approval 6/28
2nd Visit 6/29-7/4
SW Interview 7/17
and the waiting continues for the SW report to be filed in order to exit Family Court and enter PGN. Do you know the date your SW interview took place? Let's keep in touch

We received notification that we are FINALLY out of PGN. Our file sat on Barrios's desk for 6 weeks (!). We entered June 5, kicked out and reentered on July 6, case signed off initially on July 10.

We have agonized for 12 weeks and sympathized with everyone who has posted here. I hope that all of you emerge very soon.

Hard to believe we've already begun talking about starting all over again!

Monica-PM me when you get a chance so we can keep in touch. Out time line is very similar to yours.

Referral: 5/14
Dossier&POA in GUA: 6/10
DNA confirmed:6/28
PA: 7/17
SW: 7/20

Received a notice today of a previo 8/18 (submitted to PGN 7/6) for my name affadavit. In spite of the fact that I have NEVER used my husband's last name and it does not appear in any of our documents, they want the name affadavit to include my first names with his last name. They have the notarized marriage certificate to prove we're legally married, but now I have to lie and swear that a name that I've never used is a legal representation of my name.

Really would appreciate previos if they protected the children, but this is silly.

Realize many of you have had worse, but needing to vent my frustration.

Peace.
ksh

Congratulations to all that recently got out of PGN. I am so happy to hear that things are moving so well in PGN finally. I entered PGN about the first week of July and still waiting to hear the status. I keep hearing about people getting out who entered PGN about the same time and getting out of PGN, I hope to hear I am out soon. Does anyone know what they are up to? How long after getting out of PGN do you get to make the final trip to bring home our children? Is it true that if the child was born in Guatemala City that it takes longer? I appreciate any informaiton. Hope and pray we all get out of PGN soon. My son is now 5 months old, he was assigned to me at 2 days old. I went to see him in early July, and yes, worth every second with him...
Terry

Terry,
We were released from PGN on July 25th. My daughter was born in Guatemala City. We are in Guatemala now, just returning from our embassy appointment this morning.

Out of PGN July 25th - US Embassy appointment August 22nd.

I hope that helps you.

Prayers to you and your family,
Cheri F

TERRY,
I HAVE SPOKEN TO MY AGENCY & WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS SPOKEN TO PGN DIRECTLY & WAS GIVEN THE DATE THEY WERE UP TO WAS JULY 17TH, THAT WAS ON FRIDAY, NOW THIS FAMILY CALLED PGN TODAY, & THEY WERE TOLD SOMETHING DIFFERENT, WAS TOLD THEY ARE UP TO JULY 14TH..MY AGENCY EMAILED ME & SAID THE ATTORNEY CHECKED SPECIFICALLY ON MINE & OTHER CASES & WAS TOLD JULY 17TH IS WHAT THEY ARE UP TO..CONFLICTING STORIES, SO WHO KNOWS WHAT IS CORRECT OR NOT? PGN DOES NOT WANT TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OVER THE PHONE AT THIS POINT, THEY ARE BEING DIFFICULT, EVEN WITH PEOPLE WHO SPEAK SPANISH, THEY ARE BEING VERY VAGUE & SECRETIVE. I GUESS WE JUST HAVE TO WAIT & SEE..SORRY I CAN'T GIVE ANYBODY BETTER NEWS, BUT THAT IS WHAT I HAVE LEARNED TODAY.

ROSEMARIE

This email is for people who have already had the appointment with the embassy (pink slip). I was just wondering what kind of questions the embassy ask you and how long does the appointment take? I am sure the lawyer will let us know but i also want to know what kind of documents you have to take with you to show the embassy. I will really apprecciate your help on this matter. Gracias!

Cheri,
Thank you for the information and CONGRATULATIONS...Have a safe trip home and welcome home to your daughter. I cant beleive it takes a month after getting out of PGN to bring him home...I was hoping sooner, but its great to know the answer. Again, congratulations. I hope to hear from PGN soon, I hear they are up to like July 17th in PGN, but that is confusing with my case in PGN like the first week of July and still no word. I check every couple hours hoping for the good news...
Terry

Hi KSH,

I guess we are in the same boat. We were also kicked out of PGN for our name affidavit. They listed 7 names that were missing; 5 of which were on the original name affidavit. In addition, they are asking us to list my husband's name using his middle name as his first name for the other 2. He has NEVER used his middle name as his first name nor does any of our paperwork have that. In addition, we have been asked to provide our fullpassports....from what I understand this is not common practice. I don't understand that. I just thought I would let you know that you are not the only one who is being asked for the same thing.

It's curious to me that some of you are being told that PGN is up to the 7/14 - 7/17 cases. My case went back in PGN on 7/5/06 after a k/o on 7/4/06. I'm being told that my file has been sitting on Barrios' desk for the past 3 weeks. It's hard to speculate what is going on, but there certainly doesn't seem to be any clear pattern to how cases are getting signed off on. Sigh....

~Anna

Esperanza,
They ask you rather benign questions like, "Is this you?" "When did you see this baby for the first time?" I believe the main document you need are three years worth of tax returns to show that you earn enough. Good luck and try not to worry about the interview. It is very easy.

Esperanza-
Your agency should tell you which documents you need to take to the Embassy. A lot of it depends on whether you visited before the adoption was complete and what Visa they are coming to the United States on (IR-3 V IR-4). We were only at the Embassy for maybe 15-20 minutes . They quickly reviewed our paperwork and asked very basic, simple questions such as "Are you both sure that you wish to adopt this particular child", "Did you both physically visit (view) the child prior to the completion of the adoption", etc. After that, we signed the documents, paid the fees and left. We then returned that afternoon for our packet (I believe that has changed now and you have to wait 24 hours before returning to the Embassy for your packet). Unless things have changed since we were there in December of 2004, everything was very quick and simple for that part of the process. Congratulations and good luck...enjoy your trip to Guatemala to bring home your precious Angel!! Best wishes for a speedy resolution for everyone waiting to hear good news...

NWT,
I found out today our attorney received our file from Family Court yesterday and we will enter PGN by the end of this week. Have you received any updates? Keep in touch!

Thought some might find this interesting... Disclaimer... I AM NOT COMPLAINING!!! We found out we are out of PGN :) We also found out it only took them two days to approve our case, but it sat on the directors desk for 5 weeks after that. For those questioning if anyone can get out in 5 weeks the answer is yes. I just don't know how many.....

Our file has been in PGN since June 1st or June 6th...we have received two different dates from our agency. No previo's we have been told we are just waiting. Has anybody been in this long withour a previo or without hearing anything?

Beth,
We have been told we entered PGN June 8. We have asked several times about Previo and been told no. We are still waiting to hear something/anything.

Beth,
I also went in on June 6. Just got the news yesterday that they have to re-do a document and resubmit.

I am noticing a lot of comments about the date at which PGN might be at in reviewing cases such as July 14 or 17th, does anyone have any speculation on how quickly they move thru the days? Is it a day each day? A day each week? I know there is no specific answer but just looking for the speculations/rumors. We entered PGN july 31st. Thanks, Megan

I read this board nearly every day and have never posted anything until now, we were suppose to have family court on 8/16/2006 then we have to wait until the SW writes the report, does anyone know how long this takes as I guess we cannot enter PGN until we get this report. We do not even know if we have gone to family court, as our agency only does monthly updates which are very hard and frustrating for my husband and myself and when we ask for information all we get is no news is good news, is this what everyone gets from their agency? and how often do you get updates once you get in PGN? thanks!

I also went into PGN end of June and have had no previos; just waiting.

Megan -

My understanding is that they generally do one day a day....

We have been in PGN since April 21, with no previos, no word at all...very frustrating.

My caseworker has said there is no rhyme or reason as to who is clearing when as she has cases that went in PGN after us who have cleared. We were in PGN since the last previo since May 14th and just received another previo last Friday. We have not been under investigation so we don't know why we have been in so long.

I've been in pgn for over 7 weeks and we still have no info on where we are exactly. can anyone e-mail me the contact info they have at pgn so that I can try to find some stuff out.

My e-mail is dnfpagliaro@aol.com

CONGRATS to all those families that got OUT of PGN. we just learned that we are getting our DNA done this week so we will be joining the "PGN party" soon. I am a little confused on the order things are done like family court is done when and why. about how much time passes between DNA and entering PGN? any answers will help. thanks and keep posting so we can all hear that babies actually are coming home.

Connie-In answer to your question, your best bet is to contact your agency for the answer as to when you entered family court. If you have read even a couple of these emails, you can tell that each case is different and time frames are all different due to each individual Guatemalan social worker writing their report on the birth mother and then the lawyer filing it in family court and the PGN. Our agency gives us weekly updates either by email or a nice telephone call to us, with always encouraging words that lift us up. They have been professional in providing accurate information about our case. Request the same from your agency. Marie

Hi Connie,
We were just in your same situation with Family Court & waiting for the SW report to be submitted. We estimated the SW report should only take 2 weeks, max 1 month, however, we were 5 weeks and finally were able to exit Family Court on Tuesday. We will enter PGN on Friday. You are correct, you cannot enter PGN until this report is filed and you exit Family Court. The next time you contact your agency ask them for the date you entered FC. Keep in mind, we are the Customers of these agencies and they would not be in business without us. Good Luck!

Hi all -- We just came back from Guatemala on a visit trip - our little guy turned 1 on 8/18/06. We have been in the PGN since 3/10/2006. We have been kicked out 3 or 4 times. When we were there, there were only 2 babies out of 10-12 that were actually coming home - surprisingly the two that we coming home were under 10 months old. When we were leaving the agent in Guatemala assured us that everyone there is doing anything and everything they can to get our son home. Let me tell you - sometimes words mean a million - I felt very confident again hearing this. I agree with others, there is no rhyme or reason to the PGN - We were told to Pray Pray Pray..... That is what we are doing. Best of luck to the rest of you in the PGN waiting club!

Kristina

As far as I know I am in family court-we hear nothing from our agency- where do all of you get all of your info??

We entered PGN on July 28, just got a "kick-out" on Aug. 22, and our case was resubmitted that same day. Anyone out there on about the same time frame?

Our agency gives us weekly updates , sometimes twice a week, with email and/or phone calls. I really look forward to them, even if it's just "your little guy is doing just fine".

Andrea,

Our case entered PGN on July 28 too. So far, we've not heard anything about their processing of our file. Hopefully no news is good news. We've gotten news of "our little guy" with the help of a Spanish speaking friend of ours -- we call the foster Mom and speak to her. He's doing great!

Hi,
Hoping some of you may be able to give me some answers as to the workings of PGN:
1: If they work 'day by day' i.e. so today they could all be working on July 18 submissions. What happens if you get kicked out? What day are you? Do you have to wait until they get up to your resubmission day (August 23)? Or are you somehow bumped up?
2: Also, PGN said they were going to issue all previos at once now. Has this been the case?
THANKS.
Impatiently waiting Joanne

Andrea,
I entered PGN on July 26 and haven't heard anything yet. I really don't get updates so I may have been kicked out and resubmitted and don't even know it. Keep us posted

We entered PGN on 06/22/06 and still no word yet.

Hello Joanne,

From our experiences:
1. When you get kicked out they work on your resubmission date. We have been in PGN since April with 2 KO's - our last re-entry date being July 18th (still waiting - keeping our fingers crossed we will not get KO'd again).
2. I have been reading that folks are still getting kicked out - actually this week seemed like a lot of KO's.

I wish I had better news for you - I know there are folks out there that have been waiting longer than we have and my heart breaks for them. Actually my heart breaks for all of us; for it just isn't fair for these children.

I thank each of you that post your info when you receive it. It helps so much! I look forward to reading when folks get out, and all of a sudden don’t feel so alone when I read that someone else has the same timelines as we do. I hope to see all of us out soon – it has been way, way too long!

Thanks Tom and Jennifer for you responses. I'll post any info I get when I get it. Good luck all!

We have been in PGN since June 1st, with no news. We are going down next week to see the boys. Has anyone gone down there and able to make an impact on their timeline of getting out? If so, what did you do when you were down there that helped your case move faster?

Andrea - your agency sounds great. please e-mail me your agency name. we are researching.
thanks
sands34j@yahoo.com

johni

Thanks for all the advise, I emailed our agency and asked them to ask the lawyer where we are in the process and she said we had family court and they are waiting on the SW report which they think they will get either today or Monday then we should go to PGN next week sometime.

What is the main reason for PGN to kick out a case....?

how long is PGN suppose to be? as when we signed the POA with the lawyer she said 7 weeks but that is not the case in reading sites??

Here is to wishing that everyone gets through this process and bring home their babies soon!!

TO ALL,
I JUST GOT THE CALL TONIGHT FROM MY AGENCY, WE ARE FINALLY OUT OF PGN!!!! WHAT A RELIEF!!! WE HAVE BEEN IN PGN SINCE APRIL 6,2006 WITH 2 K/O'S RESUBMIT DATE WAS JULY 18, 2006...4 OUTS TODAY FROM OUR AGENCY..HOPEFULLY MORE FAMILIES WILL GET OUT WITHIN A COUPLE MORE WEEKS!! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE OTHER FAMILIES WHO GOT OUT, & WISHING SPEEDY PINKS TO COME!!! I WILL BE PRAYING FOR ALL FAMILIES WAITING FOR PGN OUTS!!

ROSEMARIE

Hi Connie and everyone else-
We just returned from Guatemala and saw our little guy(who's 4 months old) for the first time!!! He is too cute!!! We entered PGN on 7/7, we get weekly contacts from our agency and the director of the orphanage. Connie, the answer to your question...what is the main reason for a PGN kick-out, well, we would hope that the main reason would be a discrepancy in the legitimacy of the case, but sadly email, after email it runs from a missing document, due to an agency's mishap or a signature written differently on two seperate documents. There is no rhyme or reason behind a kick-out. They range from the complex to something so benign it enters the realm of the ridiculous.
On our visit to the orphange, if it is any consolation to anyone, there were children waiting for over a year, not the PGNs fault, but their own country's request for seals. The longest wait times were from Holland and Sweden. Good news on the trip back to the US, there were
3 babies going home with their forever families. The parents wait time in PGN ranged from 4 months to 14 months, but they were finally coming home. Missing our little one terribly and hoping for a phone call soon, prayers to all,
Marie

Hi Connie,

COngratulations for having your case almost in PGN. YOu are asking how long does the case take at PGN. I will tell you nobody knows how long it takes because it depends on each case and mostly of PGN director. When i went to visit our daughter in February, I asked our lawyer how long does it take, she said one month. I went to visit my daughter for the second time in May (When we just entered in PGN) and she told me one month or five weeks. Well, i don't want to dissapoint you but we were out of PGN just last week after being three months and one week at PGN, with one kick out. That was the longest and hardest waiting for us, because i believed what our lawyer told me. I was hoping that we would have been out after a month, and that wasn't our case. We were kicked out for a stupid thing, a medical report that they have never asked before. Now, we are waiting for the pink slip, again they are telling us three to four weeks, some families have received it in two weeks. So, i am telling myself it will take four weeks, so i won't get deppressed again like i was when we were at PGN. My advice for all the families that are waiting at PGN is that think that you will be at least two months or a little bit more (I know it is hard), but that will help you a lot. Just think, if it is less you will be happy and surprised. Good luck to all the families.
Abrazos,

I have been told by a very reputable source in Guatemala that the PGN wait is now around 3.5 to 4 weeks. So if you have been in really long I would start putting the pressure for exact answer. We were told we were in and waitind for four weeks come to find out we were not in. So Asl, Ask, Ask!

We have been in PGN since May 17(14 weeks) and have no KO's. Were told we were unofficialy out only to be told two weeks later we are not out but lawyer hopes for us to be out in "week or so...." Very frustrating!!!
Just keep hoping PGN continues to move.

Rebecca- You should ask your agency
regarding the timeline of events, which they should have provided to you. You are paying them to do so.
In the event that they haven't provided you this info, you may want to ask them why. To answer your question, Family Court is necessary because your POA and the Guatemalan social worker's report on the birth mother, along with other documents has to be filed with them prior to entering the PGN. Remember, pre- approval from the U.S. Embassy has to be attained, without it, cases do not exit the PGN (or are KO pending pre-approval). This website has the events in order along with other very important info for awaiting parents, you might want to browse the info before contacting your agency to verify their information.
I know that we have found the info provided by guadadopt a life-saver.
Marie

I just posted in the Abandonment heading, however, this is too important for someone to miss. After 13months of being told "everything is moving along fine" by my agency, delay after delay, kicked out from PGN, lack of communication and then just recently being told that my baby girl will have to go through abandonment after 13 months, I hired Adoption Supervisors (SJI). I recommend to everyone who has been waiting for over 6 months to hire them. I waited and waited and waited and now after over one year, I am finally getting some truth and some answers from SJI. They are worth every penny. Trust me, I am not rich and had to borrow this money from my family but it is worth it. They are in constant communication with me and they are going to work to complete this process. They have brought me peace of mind and that is well worth the money. I trusted my agency and attorney in Guatemala, didn't get me very far. If in your gut, you have doubts, I would strongly recommend hiring SJI. Good luck to everyone.

Just thought that I'd post here too...after 20 weeks in PGN w/two previos, most recent re-submit of 7/13, we are officially out of PGN as of 8/25/06.

...there is a light at the end of the tunnel....

Marie
thanks for info and I have been reading guatadopt(what a godsend) it just seems to me that everyone has different timelines and order of events. I wish Guatemala would be more uniform so families would know when to worry. we are waiting on our DNA results now and soon should be in PGN with everyone else. thanks to all who post.i know alot of people have to read this blog everyday to see what is going on. ( me included)

Kevin- I was told by someone (who just brought their baby home) that they were told that PGN signs off cases and exits them only on Fridays. Is there any validity to this? Again, thanks for your guidance and expertise in these matters. Marie

Pamella is 100% correct. They have given us peace of mind and now things are happening. We too had disappointment after disappointment. They are definately worth more than they charge. It is an additional sacrifice but you will not be sorry.

We are finally out!!! Got the word today that we were out Friday afternoon. We went in 4/21, and had one previo in July for more medical info on the baby. What a relief!!! I should be talking with the agency tomorrow on next steps. Best of luck to all of you waiting - it WILL happen!!!

We are estimated to travel to pick up our little girl on Sept 19th (she was born March 28th). Will anyone be travelling at that time?

Monica-
Congrats on entering PGN! We have not heard back from our agency yet, so we don't know where we are....I hope that we are about to enter (or maybe in and they forgot to tell us!). If we go in now, I am hoping there is a possiblity he will be home or Thanksgiving. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress. I'm happy someone is moving through this crazy system!

Does any one have a way to check the status of your case in PGN besides with your agency? Such as website or something. Several of you have referred to dates that PGN is working on....where are you getting these dates? Are they on a list somewhere? Please help! You can email me direct @ kjonesasid@yahoo.com. Thanks!!!

Nadia,

I have been searching for your comments over the last week. We have very close timelines. I just cheered out loud for you! Congrats!

Thank you Karen!!!

Best of luck to you!

Here is a number for PGN that I received from someone who posted on this site. 011-502-22483240. When you call you will need your case #, this is the # that is on the receipt the attorney receives when they file the case with PGN. (You can request this receipt # from you agency, they will obtain it from the attorney.)If you can't get this, you will need the Petitioner name and your child's full birth name as well as the date you entered PGN. Keep in mind, they do not speak English at PGN, only Spanish. Good Luck!

danette or anyone, we got out of pgn on aug.17 and have not heard when we will get to pick up. when did yall get out? i wish we where going then too. cindy

Is the Petitioner name, the lawyer?

Hi for Megan that wrote on August 23rd. We also entered PGN on July 31st. We will keep you updated if we hear anything. Hang in there! :)

please everyone do not start calling PGN . if they are answering phones or listening to them ring off the hook they will never finish and they just started moving again......

Thanks Monica!!!! I have two friends that live in Guatemala and they speak spanish!! I will have them call for me. Kelley

I agree with Rebecca. If you call, not only will it slow things down, but it may also flag your case for investigation and or discrimination. My friend did and now they are wondering why she is so impatient and are re-reviewing the file. Also, be aware if you signed a clause with your agency not to call anyone but them, you could put your adoption in jeopardy or on hold !!!
Why not let your agency, reps and lawyers do the work you pay them for. You knew it would be a long wait from the beginnng.
Johni

All: For those of us who are waitng in the PGN (we have been in since June 15 ),there couldn't be a worse idea than to besiege the PGN with phone calls about our cases. First of all, answering our calls will only divert the PGN staff from processing our cases. And worse,in a political climate that is so ambivalent toward international adoptions, a deluge of phone calls from overzealous Americans is only going to tick a lot of PGN folks off and ALL of our cases will suffer as a result. If the PGN wanted us to have a hot line, it would have made one available. Do all of us anxious adoptive parents-to-be a favor and use your agencies, facilitators and attorneys in Guatemala to learn about the status of your cases in the PGN.

ugh. . .anyone have any idea what dates PGN is "supposed" to be working on now?

Resubmitted to PGN on 7/12

I just received some information from the embassy that our file is with Homeland security(DHS). We have been told that we are in PGN. Does DHS hold your file while it's in PGN? Could this mean we are out of PGN? Does this mean we aren't in PGN?

Hi Kelley and others- I'm not sure calling the PGN yourself is a good idea. Though I understand the desperation and need to be proactive (I am going through this also), this action might undermine the process altogether. I know that if I would call the PGN, not only would my agency, but my attorney and social worker would not be pleased. Try contacting your agency, who then can ask your attorney in Guatemala what is your status. Also, reread your contract with your agency, mine states a clause about my legal boundaries. I would hate to see a delay in your case. I would also hate to see a berage of phone calls made to the PGN that might stall the process for all the other cases pending final signatures. Marie

danette----
we recieved a call this afternoon and our appt. is Sept.5 so of course we are all thilled to death,since our little fellow just got out of pgn on Aug.17 thanks to everyone for all your incoming news and keeping us posted. cindy

PLEASE!! Do not start calling PGN. Yes, it's very frustrating! Trust me, I've waited over 13 months for my little girl. If everyone calls PGN, like it says in previous posts, it's only going to delay the PGN more. It seems like they're picking up speed, be patient. If you are having major problems, email Adoption Supervisors and see if they can help but PLEASE don't call PGN and put everyone in a bad light because of impatience.

Marie,
In response to your question as to whether PGN signs off cases and exits them only on Fridays, apparently it's not true. Our case was approved and signed on Thursday, August 17th.

Thanks Gregg and Esperanza. That's good news that PGN is working on things (however slow it might seem to some). Congratulations on your PGN signing and bringing home your little one. Have a safe trip back home. Marie

I sure did get the picture!!! I will not be calling right now. I am sorry to say that I have been a bit selfish lately. I can't stop thinking about my baby, even though he is in a loving foster home, it is not where belongs. I know it is where he has to be right now, but it is hard. Much of what yall (I am from the SOUTH!!) have said, makes great since and I haven't thought of it that way. I will be a little more patient I promise. Kelley Jones

I went in PGN the first week of July and I have not had any KO's. PLEASE DONT START CALLING PGN. IM AFRAID THAT WILL SLOW THE PROCESS UP FOR EVERYONE. I KNOW ITS HARD WAITING PUT PLEASE PUT YOUR TRUST AND FAITH IN GOD.

THANKS

Danette, was your baby born in Guatemala city or outside of Guatemala. I am asking you this question because our case was approved on August 17th, the same day you did. However, our lawyer is still working on the birth certificate (our daughter wasn't born in Guatemala City, so that makes things easier). Wow, you got your US appointment very quick. Congratulations!

PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT CALL PGN.. IT WILL AFFECT US THAT ARE WAITING TO GET OUT... I AM BEGGING WHOEVER POSTED THAT TO PLEASE NOT CALL PGN.

Ciny,
I need to send a small package down. Would you be willing to take with you and leave at the Hotel Desk for pick up? If so e-mail me at botebumj@comcast.net
Kim

Cindy (who just got out of PGN on Aug 17th) -

When did you enter PGN? We went in on June 26th and KO in July and back in August 1st. We are anxiously awaiting a call as is everyone else. Our little guy just turned 6 months old on August 18th. It helps if we hear timeframes......

Cindy,
Congrats on your final date! We got out of PGN Aug 24th. Let me know how the travel goes and any tips!

It is finally my turn; I am doing that happy dance!!!!!!!!!!!!
We are hoping to be in Guatemala before our son’s first birthday. It will be close – so lets shout real loud, “Come on Pink!”

We are among the "patiently waiting". We entered PGN Feb 6th, K/O Feb 28th and re-entered May 16th with no previos since. Still no word. We met our little girl this past Oct...she is almost 3 now. We're praying that God will release all of these little ones SOON!

First time posting - we got out of PGN today (Tuesday). Resubmitted last on July 17th after first & only KO.

We got our call today!! Out of PGN, that sounds so good, I'll say it again, OUT OF PGN!! Here are our stats. Submitted to PGN on 5/31, knocked out 6/27, resubmitted 7/24, approved 8/29. Our little girl is 8 months old, born on Christmas day, 2005. Looks like we will have her home this Christmas afterall, I was beginning to wonder!!!

Everyone, please be patient. Your time will come. My husband and I were in PGN for 4 long months. We finally got out on August 11, and we just heard today that our appointment is set for Sept. 6. I know first hand that it is very hard waiting up here, while our little ones are down there without a mommy and daddy. But God has his own time table, and it will happen when he knows the time is right. Just keep praying for patience and understanding. It will happen.

Hi Laura-

Thanks for posting. How fun we share the same PGN date. I hope so much to get out soon- the both of us! I jump at each phone call although I know it is still too soon, most likely. Our agency is telling me to expect 8 weeks. What is your agency predicting? Have you done a visit trip?

To everyone wondering where PGN is, I have a friend who was fostering in Antigua who is out of PGN with an entrance date of 7/21.
Pretty good,huh!

Take care, Megan

OUT OF PGN-------------
CONCERNING THE QUICK EXIT I DON'T KNOW HOW WE DID THAT. BUT YES HE WAS BORN OUTSIDE GUATEMALA CITY. KIM WE WILL BE STAYING AT THE MARRIOTT AND WOULD BE GLAD TO TAKE SOMETHING FOR YOU. I'll e-mail you later. TIMELINE AS THIS.

REFERRAL--FEB.2006
DNA --APR.2006
PGN-1 --MAY 29 2006
PGN-2 --JULY 4 2006
CIVAL REG. -- AUG.17 2006
APPT. -- SEPT.5 2006

EVEN THOUGH I DID'T THINK OUR AGENCY CALLED US ENOUGH AND KEPT US POSTED EVEN IF THERE WAS NO NEWS I GUESS I'll give credit TO THEM DOING ALL THERE PAPER WORK RIGHT AND BEING ABLE TO GET US TO WHERE WE ARE.
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE AND EASY TO SAY BUT HOLD TIGHT IT WILL HAPPEN.

CINDY

I really have appreciated this thread because of all the timelines. It helps me keep hope up to see many people on similar (or longer) timelines to mine who are getting out of PGN.

Thanks everybody,

Deb
(referral mid-December; into PGN on 6/5, 1 previo.)

Is anyone getting out of Minors? We have been in since Minors Section since March 15, 2006. I am going crazy, every week we are told they have to check back next week, they are still investigating. We are still going to have to wait in PGN for months. Our baby boy is going to be 10 1/2 months old this week and it seems there is no hope that he will be home for his first Birthday or even Christmas. We have been told that they have have not found anything wrong with his file but they are "still investigating". Anyone have this happen and get out of Minors and how long were you in PGN?

Thanks,

Nina

I am so happy to hear so many of you are getting out of PGN! That's great news. CONGRATS TO ALL! We went into PGN the first week of July with no KO's yet and are patiently waiting to hear news. My son is almost 6 months old (Born March 15th). Keep the faith and keep sharing the GREAT NEWS! God Bless to all.
Terry

PGN turns cases out everyday of the week. I had one come out Monday and another come out Tuesday this week. One was a June case and one a July case. I am not sure where these rumors start of a certain progression and days of the week etc but they are all false............. Keep up the prayers for those in PGN and remember your day will come and God is incharge.........

IM OUT IM OUT of PGN.. I got the call last night. I should be traveling within the next 2 weeks. God is so good he has opened so many doors for this to happen.

I went in on July 3rd and was Out on Aug 29

Thank you for that beautiful post & reminder, Kelly - I wish you a wonderful pick up trip & I pray that the rest of us here are granted w/ patience until our long over due turn arrives!!! Praying for you all & those involved in the PGN!!

OUT OF PGN!!!!!

It has been 9 long months for me but I am out as 8/30/06.

To all still waiting your day will come. I know the waiting is so often hard to bare but it does happen.

Does anyone know approximately what date PGN is currently working on? The last update I read last week was mid July. Is there a site that gives this kind of information? Thanks and prayers for all of us to bring our children home quickly!

Congratulations to all out of PGN! I can not wait to do the dance with you! It is so hard to judge/guess when we will be getting out of PGN, went in first week of July and waiting, but praying everyday. Do you generally get a call or do you get an email when you are out of PGN? I see people say they got the call, but I thought I was gonna get an email from PGN or my lawyer in GUA? Any ideas? Thanks to all for sharing all the information. It really does help to talk and hear from you. God Bless to all
Terry

Does anyone know if our federal income tax returns are given back to us after our appointment at the US Embassy in Guatemala?

I entered the PGN on 7/6/06. I got the call on 8/25/06 that I was outof the PGN with no previos! The investigator signed off on my case on 7/20/06. After that, my file sat on the Director's desk waiting for his signature.

Our social worker report is taking FOREVER. UGH! Could someone give me their timeline from DNA/social worker interview to social worker report submitted? We are @ 5 weeks. A good friend who adopted had her social worker report 2 weeks after DNA/social worker interview. I'm starting to worry. My agency says as soon as the social worker report is released we go into PGN.

Thanks-Jamie

Could someone please tell me what the Minor section is?

Nina, I was in Minor's from March 1 to early July. Then my case was kicked out and resubmitted on July 18. I found out yesterday that I was finally out of PGN. Hang in there. I know how frustrating it is. PGN seems to be moving quicker, so hopefully you won't be there too long when you get out of the Minor's section. Good luck!

Sandi- thanks for verifying the false rumors but you must remember that watching these timelines and guessing and sharing thoughts with others is part of the process. It is obviously helpful to so many, otherwise, none of us would be doing it. There is a certain energy in hearing other's outs and guessing where PGN might be. It's no different then guessing a birthdate for a bio baby. We need to hang on to something while our hearts are in Guatemala. Megan

Congrats to everyone who's out of PGN. We got the phone call Thursday morning that we are out. We couldn't be happier. We entered in mid-july don't know the exact date and got out on Aug. 30th. Hopefully we get our appointment date soon. If anyone has already been to the embassy visist we were wondering what they ask????
E-mail is DnFPagliaro@aol.com
Keep the faith everyone will be out soon. Good Luck to all.

Jamie, Our son's sw report took 14 weeks!!!!!!!! The sw was sick, now pregnant and kept messing up. Our attorney finally said he would fix the errors and courier it back to her just to have her sign it. Finally we entered PGN 2 weeks ago. Our son turned 2 the end of July.

Our daughter's (we just got home with her 2 weeks ago 9 1/2 months)sw report took 2 weeks. Both had the same sw.

Hi Megan- Our agency says that PGN doesn't work on any kind of a date system. So, I don't know what kind of a system they would work on. We were told up front seven weeks, but that was before the back logs happened.
I am with you, still hoping for earlier than later! :)
Is your child in Guatemala city? Boy, or girl? Oh, and we live in Missouri. Laura M

Nina,
We have been in PGN since May 22 and we too are in the Minors Division. We've had two Previos - the latest was a request for a document that was already in our file. It's frustrating to say the least. I keep hoping that the ADA will meet with PGN officials again to discuss the delays in the Minors Division because it sounds like there are quite a few families that have been waiting for a long time.

Hey Laura- our agency says the same thing, no rhyme or reason to the outs but it seems as though they have been progressing thru the month of july in a pretty timely manner. how come some get out before others i have no idea-It saves my heart to at least hope and speculate... it's all we have right now. My heart is very much aching to have him back in my arms. We have a little boy, Luis Pedro who is 4.5 months and is in a hogar: Hogar Luz de Maria. I went on a visit trip in mid August and my husband stayed with our other two. I have a 6 year old and 2 year old, both bio. We live in Maine. My personal email is emross@comcast.net

Sandi- I just read my last email posting and hope you didn't think Iwas being offensive. Please don't read it that way.. I was just stating that it is helpful and fun for many to speculate.
Thanks

Happy long weekend all, Megan

Thanks Susan and Russ. Congratulations Susan and I hope Russ and I are not far behind! Is there a way to contact ADA?? Do either of you know why you are in Minors? You can email me at

beckern65@gmail.com

Thanks again!

Nina

I'm interested in contacting the ADA also, as we accepted our referral one year ago and have been caught up in two investigations. We have been in the second one since June with no word on our case since then. Is there anyone who can help cases such as this besides AS?

lmgreene@fuse.net

Thank you,
Laura

My wife has been watching Kelly's GuatAdopt.com website longer than I, maybe for as long as 9 or 10 months. I've been reading it faithfully --- often several times a day --- for the last several months.

What is it worth to the two of us? Well, the articles and subsequent postings by other readers has been far, far more informational than the information our agency has provided us.

In my ever so humble opinion, I believe that Kelly is entirely way too shy about asking the GuatAdopt community for donations.

I am not.

We've made a couple of small donations via the link to PayPal at http://www.guatadopt.com/pages/donations.html Even if you don’t have (or want to have) a PayPal account, you can easily make a donation via your credit card. It only takes a couple of minutes.

So what’s it worth to you for this kind of support?

Fifteen cents a day?

Twenty-five cents a day?

A buck a day?

Yeah, yeah, just as you are, we’re stretched pretty thin right now, financing our adoption. Still, we’ve managed to make a few regular donations to the cause. We urge you to do the same.

Gregg (and Esperanza --- and our precious Marilu, of course, whom we’re bringing home very soon)

PS --- Kelly, muchisimas gracias for all that you do to support those of us adopting children from Guatemala. May God continue to bless you forever.

Esperanza,
Our baby was not born in Guatemala City (in Nueva Conception). We don't have our appointment yet, just an estimated date. We were told by our adoption coordinator things would take a little longer than "normal" due to the rainy season. P.S. I love your name. I have worn a bracelet since our referrel that says "Fe Esperanza Amor" "Faith Hope Love"

We exited PGN on July 25, it took over 3 weeks for the BC (outside of Guatemala City). I've been told all along that things move much slower during the rainy season. But I am finally in the Embassy and waiting for my pink. I'm still praying to be in GC for pickup next week.

Independence Day is Sept. 15 -- has anyone been there during that? I'm thinking about extending my trip through the week to experience it.

Can everyone that has gotten kicked out of PGN tell the reasons? and what is the shortest stay in with no Previos. This should be interesting.

Danette & Cheryl. I can't but comment on the "rainy season", what in the world has that got to do with slowing things down???
First it was because of being too busy and now this? I just have to chuckle!
Marissa

Hi Cheryl,

We were in Guatemala on Sept 15th of 2005, picking up our daughter. We did hear of a parade but didn't attend. I remember festivities in the streets the night before and that the 15th was very quiet as everyone was off of work and all the businesses were closed. Can't say it was memorable (might have been the fact that we were picking up our daughter). Might be worth going to Antigua on that day, or at least checking into festivities there. Have a great trip.

Kim,
I entered PGN on 7/26/06 and exited 9/1/06. 5 weeks, 2days. No kick-outs.

Marissa,
If you've ever been to Guatemala you wouldn't "chuckle" about the rainy season...you would be praying for the people that live in countryside where mudslides wipe out roads, homes, and take lives.

John,
I have been to Guatemala during all seasons. The reason for the "chuckle" is . . if it isn't one thing it's another to delay things even more.
Waiting on our daughter for 11 months.

Jenniefer that is promising!

Jennifer, what agency are you using? That is a remarkable timeframe in PGN. Are others in your agency having the same fortune? I am so, so happy for you? Megan

Marissa, it's good that you are able to chuckle about the rainy season slow downs. It just sounds so different - for lack of a better word! I have to admit it put a smirk on my face too - despite having lived in similar countries and knowing what it does to the people there. I know this is serious stuff and the waiting can be horrible, but you have to take the smiles when you can get them.

For all who haven't been to Guatemala... To put the rainy season slow down into perspective a bit maybe, our birth mother has to walk a HUGE distance before being able to get to transportation to get to the places we need her to be at. I'm sure the mud doesn't make this any easier for the poor woman - physically or emotionally. As badly as I feel for all of us waiting for our kids, I can't imagine what this process feels like to the birth mothers.

The end does come! We are doing a second adoption and just got the "out of PGN" call (in at the beginning of June with one previo that our agency turned around within a day). We were in PGN for 3 1/2 months (2 previos) with our first so not much difference for us...other knowing about some of the pit falls that can occur. Our travel is estimated at 3-4 weeks from now.

And thanks to all of you. I've been reading the postings here for a few weeks now and it definitely makes the waiting easier knowing that we aren't alone.

Megan,
I'm using Adoptions From The Heart. I'm not sure the timeframes of others using AFTH but I know the agency has had many "outs" in the last two months. I thought my timeline was a bit slower than others online up to this point. Although it did stay very close to the time frame mapped out for me in the beginning by my agency. Hoping for a speedy homecoming for all of us!

WE GOT OUT OF PGN TODAY!!!!!

We were submitted on June 13th (no KO's). Our son's BC will be coming from GC. Our agency expects us to travel on or about September 25th.

Someone pinch me! Good wishes and prayers to all of those still waiting....

I've gotten confused following the threads as to which is the "legitimate" adoption supervisors. Anyone know the right email address? Also, what can they do that our agencies aren't doing, but should be doing?
Thanks. Anna

I just got an email from my agency, that BC from GC & Passport came back yesterday & Final Documents were submitted TODAY..HOORAY!! Agency expects to hear on Friday with Pink slip...I am hoping to travel the week of 9/18 or 9/25..we shall see..LOL..I just wanted to post an update..hoping for more PGN outs this week!!! Good Luck ALL!!

Rosemarie

Hi Jennifer,
We are also with AFTH in Delaware. What office are you using? We entered PGN with our 4 month old daughter on 8/25. Here is our timeline:
Ava Born:                             
4/14/06

Referral Received:                          
5/4/06

POA Signed In Guatemala:                         
5/13/06

Documents Being Translated & Certified:
5/15/06

Enter Family Court:
6/7/06

DNA Authorization Issued:
6/7/06

DNA Testing:
6/12/06

Family Court Interview:
7/17/06

Exit Family Court:
8/25/06

2nd Visit to Guatemala:
6-29-06/7-4-06

Pre-Approval Issued:
6/28/06

Enter PGN:
8/25/06

What is your timeline? Do you have an update on PGN, I have not heard anything. Keep in touch! :-)
Monica

Come on PGN! I can't hang on much longer!

In PGN since 6/12 - 2 KO's

Monica,
I'm using the Allentown Agency.
1/12/06 Baby born
3/17/06 Received Referral (jumped for joy)
4/1/06 POA sent to Guatemala
5/24/06 DNA authorization
5/29/06 Social Worker interview
6/12/06 DNA testing
6/19/06 Received DNA results
6/29/06 Pre Approval
7/26/06 Entered PGN
9/1/06 Exited PGN (yippy!!!)

I haven't heard anything else yet.
Hope to see you in Guatemala!!!

Anna,
If you do a general search for Adoption Supervisors they come up. They are Edwin and Manfred two Attorneys. That is how you will know. I will get you the e-mail address if you can't find it. We hired them because we were being held at bay. They have straightened out a huge mess and things are moving now. We went into PGN 8/25. Our daughter is now 17 months old. We were lied to and told that we went into PGN 3/6 four months later we found out we were lied to. We got our referral 7/05 so this has really dragged on for us. Good luck!
Kim

Monica you are extremely lucky with your timeline. Your agency must be fantastic!and your people in Guatemala must be on the ball.

Anna,
The e-mail to Adoption Supervisors is: serjuin@adoption-supervisors.com
Kim

Megan:
We are in NH. Who is your agency ? Are they close to ME and NH ? thanks

Pat

I AM DOING THE HAPPY DANCE!!! OH, WHAT A FEELING! I just got the call that I am OUT OF PGN. I entered PGN on 7-9-06, apparently 1 KO and new date in PGN 7/20/06 and out as of today 9-7-06. I wanted to share the great news with you all. Hang in there, it will happen for all of you soon.
My prayers are with all of you still in PGN to come out soon and bring those beautiful miracles home...My son RJ is 6 months old as of the 15th of Sept. God Bless and Thank you all for making it easier by sharing your stories with me. I will let you know when the pink slip gets here...Come on PINK SLIP!
Terry

Kim, thanks for the info on adoption superv. It frustrates me that I will have to go this route b/c I thought this is what I was paying my atty in guat and my agency for. However, I truly feel something has gone awry with my case. I'm glad to hear that your situation seems to be on track, now. Did you agency have an explanation as to why someone else could figure out the problem?
Anyway, thanks so much. All the best to you. --Anna

Hello,
Does anyone have any information or resources on fostering in Antigua while your
adoption is completed? Our son in almost 6 months old, and we are close but not in PGN yet. I desperately want to stay with him for a few months until I can bring him home.
Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Rosemarie,
Congratulations! We just received our "pink slip" today. We have an appointment on Wed. Sept 20th --they are a little backlogged, closed for the Ind. holiday and Sept 11th I heard. Maybe I'll see you in the Embassy:)

For those of you that are receiving your notices that you are out of PGN - You are saying that you got the call.... Who is it that calls? I always thought it would be an email since that is how we were notified about the pre-approval. Can someone confirm?

Hi Pat- Our agency is Wide Horizons For Children. They are in Waltham, MA and Bedford, NH with offices other places as well in other states.
our timeline so far has been

4/16/06 Luis Pedro- born
5/1/06 referral
6/12/06 family court interview/dna
7/3/06 positive dna
7/23/06 exit family court
7/31/06 enter pgn
waiting, waiting, waiting : )

Kim and Anna,

We are also having increasing problems with our agency. Have you both let Kevin know who your agency is? I think its useful for him to have information on agencies where there are problems in case he is asked about them. Please don't post your agency name here as it could create problems for this site (i.e. the agency could threaten to sue). Kim, I am wondering if you are using the same agency we are using. I am beginning to suspect that we are not in PGN and that we were lied to. How did you figure out this piece? I appreciate it!

Kathy

What about the Minors cases... just heard from AS again. They are STILL investigating our case. It has been in Minors since March 15, 2006. 6 weeks ago we were told that it should only be a few more weeks and that it should be out of Minors by the end of August. I am very afraid there is something really wrong with our babies documents. We were told it was a problem with attorney, then with BC (person who signed), then with the clerk in Barberena, then the birth grandparents were interviewed. We have no idea what they are looking for, birth mother is supposedly 21 years old. Can Susana Luarca help?? We have lost 2 babies from Guetamala already and are starting to think that this is all a sign that we should count our blessing with our 3 year old son (placed at 2 months, home at 7 months) and move on with our lives. I feel like we are so involved with this adoption we are missing our older son's life and our babies life.

Thanks for letting me vent.

Nina

Danette,
Thanks! You too, congratulations..I hope we do see you there..I will let you know when our Embassy appt is, after I get the pink..talk to you soon.

Rosemarie

Hi! Just wanted to give an update. Our baby was born February 4 (referral Feb 8) We initially entered PGN on June 20th, were kicked out 4 weeks later for a numbering error on one of our papers, were resubmitted July 31st, and came out approved September 6. We have our decree and are now waiting for our birth certificate. Good luck to everyone! I hope everyone gets their babies home soon!
Bonnie

We were in PGN 5 weeks 1 day, here's out timeline:

Signed with FTIA: 1/17/06
Dossier/171H to FTIA: 5/1/06
Referral: 5/2/06
POA: 5/19/06
DNA Authorization: 5/30/06
Entered FC: 6/8/06
BM missed DNA/FC: 6/21/06
DNA/FC Interview: 6/28/06
FC exit: 7/21/06
Preapproval: 7/24/06
Enter PGN: 7/27/06
Exit PGN: 8/31/06 (no KO's)
BM sign off: 9/1/06
Waiting on BC

I was out of PGN on 8-29 and I got my BC and was submitted to the embassy on 9-6-2006. How long does it usually take to get the pink slip? what are the dates the embassy is issuing now?

thanks for all your replies.

Kerrie - You will be notified by your agency when you are out of PGN. Our agency sent e-mail and called. I suspect that most agencies call to give the good news but also e-mail so they have a record of the notification. Good Luck!!

Jennifer & Monica, I have some questions. I too am using the same agency. Both of you have much better timelines than me!! I don't thank it has to do with our agency, it has to do with my lawyer and what social worker one is given.My social worker has got to be the slowest one available. I got my referral 1/28/06. Things I thought went pretty fast in the beginning, then we had social worker interview on June 1 and didn't get it written until Aug.30. I was told that we entered PGN on Sept.4. I'm interested to see how long we stay in PGN.(it was 5 weeks for you I think with no previos) With the luck we're having it will probably be more like 8 to 12 weeks. Who is your coordinator? Who is your lawyer? Both of you were very lucky with your timeline. My daughter is already 7 months old. I have this bad feeling we won't get her home before her 1st birthday. But i will get her when the Lord feels it's time. So I will wait. Please email me back. Thanks, Lisa

FYI for those stuck in FC. We had been 21/2 months and were just released and now into PGN. Hopefully things are starting to move....

REBECCA,
FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND FROM MY AGENCY, IT TAKES 48 HRS FOR A PINK SLIP..HOWEVER, THE EMBASSY DOES NOT ISSUE PINK SLIPS ON FRIDAYS, OR HAVE APPTS FOR EMBASSY INTERVIEWS ON FRIDAYS. MY DOCUMENTS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED ON SEPT 6..MAYBE WE WILL HAVE THE SAME EMBASSY APPT DATE?

ROSEMARIE

Hi everyone -- this is a wonderful site - I love to read about everyone elses cases. We have had our referral now since 9/06/05. Our son was born on 8/18/05. We went in to the PGN on 3/10/06, and found out today that we have been kicked out for the 5th time. This is totally rediculous. I just want to give any one who is dealing with a minor birthmother -- watch out if she turns 18 before you are approved. The PGN has asked for new ID as well as all new consent forms. Sometimes I wonder if this wait will ever come to an end. Our son will be 13 months old soon, and we have only been able to see him for 4 days of that time. Let me tell you - it was the most wonderful feeling to have him in our arms. Here's to hoping we can all bring our little ones home soon!

Sam - Thanks for your info. Unfortunately we are not updated very often about anything with our agency. All I know is that we entered PGN on June 26th and had one KO on July 27th and re-entered on August 1st. We haven't heard anything about timelines other than from our coordinator who stated we would be out of PGN anywhere from August 28th through September 27th. Does anyone have any input about this or how I could find out if we are waiting just for the BC?

Congrats to all the OUTS this week! As for us, today marked week #16 in PGN without any kickouts! Hoping and praying PGN ends soon for us and everybody else!

OUT on Sept. 4 w/last submission date on July 27th - So now we are waiting to hear more, how long is a GCBC taking to get issued & what is the average wait from OUT to PINK running right now, anybody know???? We will continue to pray for those that are waiting to get their final OUTS of PGN,we know it is such a hard time to get thru.... but your turn will come!!! God bless you all for your support!!!

Hi,
Just wanted to let you all know about a great place to stay if you're going to Antigua. El Solar Apartments. I was there a month on a visit and it was wonderful. Easy to find on the internet.
Joanne

Lisa,
My Guatemala Coordinator is Gina Jarrell and the lawyers are Monterosso Associates. I feel your frustration and wish there was something I could say to make you feel better. Keep your chin up.

The call came from my lawyer here in NY about getting out of PGN. Although my pre-approval came in the form of an email this was a personal call, which is great! Someone had mentioned that the Embassy for the pink slip is closed on fridays and for the Ind. holiday as well as Sept. 11th. Does anyone know when the Ind. holiday is and how long the Embassy is closed for it? I appreciate anyones help. I am waiting for my BC from GC and the Pink Slip. Thanks and God bless to all...Hang in there, your PGN approval will come soon.
Terry

Rosemarie

I heard from my sw on Friday she said that I should be getting the pink slip tuesday or wednesday. Keeping my fingers crossed and saying a prayer for all of us.

Independence Day in Guatemala is Friday September 15th.

Jennifer, I am also using Gina as my coordinator. However my attorney is Bolanos. I just hope he's as good as yours. I hope we have a quick PGN exist like you did!!!! Do you get alot of updates from Gina? Has she told you where you will be staying on pickup? Did she call you personally and let you know you had gotten out of PGN or was it someone from your agency? I'm so excited for you!! Keep me posted on what goes on! Thanks, Lisa

For everyone with little babies (less than seven months) count your belssings. Our daughter is now almost seventeen months old. This has been draggin on for us since July of 2005. We are in PGN but the whole process has been torture. Wishing eveyone quick closure and lots of little ones home soon!
Kim

Rebecca,
That's great!! I hope your pink slip comes fast!!! I am hoping I will hear something on Monday 9/11..I will post when I have the date..Good Luck to all!!!

Rosemarie

Terry,
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I hope you get the Pink slip really fast!!!!! as far as the Birth Certificate in Guatemala city I got mine back within 5-6 Business days & the Passport only takes 1 day...the Pink slip usually takes 48 hrs. I heard the Embassy is closed on Sept 15th for their Independance Holiday..& does not have visa interviews on Fridays, or issue pink slips on Fridays I did not hear they were closed for 9/11...Thanks for that info..Good Luck..Talk to you soon.

Rosemarie

I would like to comment on something Kristina said on September 8. She said to watch out if the birth mother turns 18 while you are in the adoption process. This is a good bit of advice. To go along with that you may also consider just waiting out the time until she turns 18 before getting too far in the process. Granted this is easier if she is almost 18 and extremely difficult if she is much younger. I just wanted to add another thought to Kristina's comment. God bless all you waiters. It is a very difficult time.
Cathy
momma to Carlos and Claire

smartin,
It won't be long now! We got out of PGN Aug 10th, went for birth certificate Aug 28, pink slip issued Sept 8th. Our appointment is Sept 19th! Hang in there!

Hi Lisa,

I also have the same Guatemala Coordinator and attorney with AFTH. Gina is the coordinator and Miriam Monterosso is our attorney. Miriam's two assistants in Guatemala, Bonny and Karla are wonderful! As you can see we moved very quickly in the beginning and then got stuck in Family court, same situation, waiting 5 weeks for the report to be submitted! We entered PGN on 8/25. Keep busy, focus on the positive and things you will do when your child is home. Keep in touch.
Monica

Terry.
Ind day is Sept 15th. I am curious about Sept 11th as it is not listed as a day the embassy will be closed... Maybe just not giving pink. Anyone know the answer to this??? Thanks

Got our pink slip last Friday. At the embassy on Tuesday the 19th! YA-HOOOOOO!!!!! (Born 1/23/06; out of PGN on August 18th.)

Gregg, Esperanza, and Marilu

Yeah! It looks like things are really moving in PGN.

My SW said that the Embassy DOES issue Pink Slips and has Interviews on Fridays...

I got PINK today:) Looks like they were working after all.

Suzanne

I got the call that we are out of PGN as of today (they were not closed for 9/11)!!! Entered PGN 4/24, ko 7/10, out PGN 9/11. I heard a bunch of cases were signed off on today. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
--Anna

has anyone had their attorney in guatemala pass away during the process. This just happened to us. Incredibly sad for the family and friends and lives touched. Please know that I recognize that while asking if anyone knows how it will affect the cases in progress?? thanks, megan

We are out!

I'm still in shock! I just can't believe it!

In July 6
Previo late July
In Aug 3
Out Sep 11

Lisa,
Gina called me on a Saturday to let me know I had exited PGN the day before. I was very thankful for that since it was a Holiday weekend and I would not have heard until Tuesday. That was the first I had ever spoken to her, though we had e-mailed. My updates came from Gina but through my social worker at AFTH. Aside from the medical updates and the pictures, I only got one update from AFTH and that was to tell me I was in PGN (but I already figured that out on my own because I e-mailed the Embassy and they told me "You should be in PGN"). Right now I am waiting for my Travel Packet which was supposedly mailed last Tues. :-)

S,
Thank you for the response regarding Embassy closing on 15th and Ind. holiday. I guess the 11th may be just no pink slips. I read it on the site. My son was born in Guatemala City (3/15/06), so apparently the Birth Certificate takes a little longer there...Will keep everyone posted. Thank you again and God bless.
T

We're out! Entered PGN on June 15, one previo in mid-July, back in on July 21 and received our call yesterday that PGN signed off. Our agency says there is no rhyme or reason why some cases are moving ahead of others. Our case is newer than some of our agency's cases which are still in PGN. Our daughter was one on August 13.2006. We were matched last Fall and began the process in Guatemala in January 2006. It's been a long wait, but our last Guatemalan adoption took 18 painful months so we are grateful that our newest is headed home. She joins eight brothers and sisters, inluding five from Guatemala. We have been blessed. Good luck to all. It will happen.

Suzanne

When is your appt date? im curious because im expecting Pink either today or tomorrow.. Trying to plan for the trip.

thanks

Has anyone stayed at the Mariott lately, and if so, is their pool under construction??

Lisa,
Congratulations on your PGN exit...:-). You indicated you contacted the Embassy & they informed you, "you should be in PGN" Were they able to provide any other information. We were told we entered PGN on 8/25, however, I have no confirmation back that I have requested from AFTH. Once you receive your travel packet, please share the details regarding the information needed for the pick-up trip. I am trying to be pro-active & as prepared as possible. Congratulations again and Thank You! Monica

Megan,

Who was the attorney that passed away? Thanks.

Rebecca,
Our appt is on Sept 20th. I will be praying for you to your Pink and appt quickly!

Suzanne

It appears that PGN is moving and cases that entered the end of July are being approved within 5-6 weeks. Does anyone else have any other updates? Prayers for all of us to have a quick out and speedy pink!

The Marriott pool was starting its construction last Friday(Sept 8) From the letter we received, it wasn't going to be closed for too long I beleive

Stacy

ANN,
Yes,I called the Mariott in Guatemala City to make reservations & the agent said the Pool is under Construction from Sept 6- Oct 6...but a family from the same agency I am using is in Guatemala now & staying at the Marriott, & said they were told by people in the Hotel it will be under construction for 3 mos...so I tend to believe the Hotel people rather than the agent on the phone.
My husband & I decided to stay at The Holiday Inn, for the same rate you get A Kitchenette Suite w/2 DBLE beds,my 9 1/2 yr old daughter will be with us..& they also have a pool, & the room looks nice & clean, the agent on the phone said it is called "Adoption Pkg". I figured, good enough, just need a clean place w/beds & a pool..or my daughter will be bored.Take care.

Rosemarie

If anyone does know what happens after an attorney passes away please pass the info along. A family friend who is adopting from Guat has had the case stalled because the attorney passed. I do not know what the attorney's name is but it happened in the spring and she still has not brought home her daughter.

Thanks

For those of you asking about appointments at the embassy on Fridays. I just returned from Guatemala. I had our son's passport in hand, walked into the embassy on Thursday afternoon and requested a pink slip. They issued one on the spot for a Friday morning appointment. At the embassy on Friday morning for visa processing, there were about 15 families in the line. We went back for the visa on Monday and came home Tuesday. I, too, was surprised about the Friday appointment since I had always been told they are closed on Friday. It is my understanding that they are closed to lawyers for other business on Friday, but open to visa processing....that is what my facilitator said. Our son is finally home after a year in the process. I was really surprised by the number of very young babies coming home. Our son was one of the oldest babies. There were several coming home at 6 months! Best wishes to all of you.

Meg

Does anyone know how long the Family Court process is supposed to take-From interview process to issuing of report?

We went into PGN on July 24th and have had no word at all and are at the 7 1/2 week mark so unfortunately not all cases are clearing in 5-6 weeks.

Kathy, the attorney that passed away is Rolando Morales.

We just stayed at the Marriott in mid August for a visit and everything was great. The hotel website says the pool is under construction until Oct. 6.

We entered PGN in early August and are waiting rather impatiently.

Congrats to all who have exited PGN and prayers to those still waiting for good news. We just exited PGN too!!! What an emotional roller coaster this was. I cannot thank this website enough for all their information and current updates and to all those that have posted and shared their stories. It has provided great comfort, hope and friendship during difficult times, those times when one feels all alone and no one else can understand what we are going through, little less what "PGN" even means. The pain was compounded even deeper after visiting him and holding him. I came across the poem, "Kisses in the Wind", and that said it all. Keeping you in our prayers, hang in there, you will have your little ones home soon. I will keep you posted as things progress, we are now awaiting news from our lawyer in Guatemala(who picks up the pink slip) and the call from our agency director as to when our appointment will be. I also plan to keep in touch in the future to encourage and share stories. Hugs to all, Marie
Timeline:
6/4-Referral
7/7-entered PGN
8/8-KO
8/9-resubmitted
9/8-exited PGN

Hi, I lurk here periodically, but thought I'd post as to the PGN craziness. Our agency had 9 previos on Sept 11 and only 1 family come out approved. We're all really bummed, but luckily our previo was a birthmother birth certificate smudge and we're told it should be fixed very quickly. Last month we had 6 approved OUTs all of which were only in PGN for 4-6 weeks. We started getting optimistic, but the events of this week just show us there is no rhyme or reason as to the PGN reviewers' movement. The randomness is maddening to me. Thankfully, we had only been in for 2.5 weeks. Others had been in for 6.5 weeks and must now go back to Square One just like us. Man, I cannot WAIT for this to be over.

We entered PGN June 1st. We have had no word on previo's or anything.
We stayed at the Marriott last week and on the way out stayed at the Westin. The westin was very nice and I spoke to other families which were staying there and no problems. The hotel pool looks great!
Has anyone elese been in PGN prior to June 1st and still waiting with no word. In the past in seemed as though people were behind us but it seems now as most cases out our July.

Does anybody know if there is a way to contact the embassy to see where your status is in PGN? Our agency does not want us to call PGN so I was thinking maybe the embassy can give us some info(like if we are approved or k/o)

We have been in PGN 11 weeks today, 5 weeks since last resubmit after K/O.

Thanks

Stacy

Hi all-
I'm wondering if anyone has gotten out of pgn quicker than the normal 4-6 week after a previo if it wasn't exactly a previo that booted you out but a need to interview the birthmother for pgn. We went into pgn at the end of May and found out at the end of August that pgn wanted to interview our dd's birthmother (b/c she is deaf) with their own translator. This is in addition to the 2nd interview she did for FC. The interview is scheduled for Mon. 9/18. Anyone have anything similar happen and are you out yet?

Stacy-
You might try reading the U.S.Department of State website which explains what the department can and cannot do. Here is there website:
http://travel.state.gov/family/adoption/adoption_485.
Hope this clarifies.
Marie

Your State Senator can contact the embassy in Guatemala to get an answer for you - although it may take some time.

Stacy,
I tried that a couple of months ago,the only thing that happened is,they emailed back a form letter that said PGN is not part of the US embassy & they can not interveign, they did not give status either. Hope this helps.

Rosemarie

Hey Folks-I remember reading on this web not awhile ago, not to contact senators because when they contact embassies, the few people processing cases have to respond to the senator's request, which then backlogs the other cases. Please read other previous threads and posts on this same topic. Marie

Beth,

Have hope, I went in to PGN also on June 1 and got out yesterday!! We did not have any previos either.

Sue

Hi this message is for Lisa who posted I think a couple of days ago. We are also using the same agency through Allentown as you as well as the same lawyer Bolanos. If you want to email me at JCar422162@aol.com and we can compare timelines and see how we both are doing. This is our second adoption. We have a two and a half year old little girl and are adding a little boy to our family.

Marie,
Congratulations on getting out of PGN. I got out of PGN on 9-7-06 and entered originally on July 20th. I am now waiting for Pink Slip and birth certificate. Told it could take up to 4-5 weeks till trip to bring home my son. I hope we both get the great news soon. Could you tell me where I could get a copy or read the poem "kisses in the wind" I am courious to read it. Thank you and God Bless.
Terry

Just wondering if anyone has had a similar problem: we went to Guat to sign our POA, and the representative from the attorney's office said we would get pictures and medical updates monthly. However, our last information was 2 1/2 months ago. We have begged and pleaded with our agency, but they say they can't do anything. Is this amount of time unusual, or should I be worried there is something wrong with our baby that they are not telling us?

Rosemarie,
I don't know if you've left already but my husband and I also stayed at the Holiday Inn. We were too told about the "adoption pkg" although we got a discounted rate, we were not provided with a room with a kitchenette. We had our 2 children (5 & 7) with as well as my mother-in-law. We instead got a joined room.

The pool was too deep for my children to go too far into. They can swim but not that good and we didn't have any floaties. The pool is also outside and there is a layer of sute on it. You can't see it until you are already in the pool and take your hand out, it looked as if someone had a bonfire right next to the pool.

The rooms were clean for the most part, but our rooms had a balcany which was really nice, but we later found out by opening the patio door the carpet was black. We couldn't let our daughter (9 1/2 months) crawl around...it was gross.

For the most part we were satisfied with the Holiday Inn, although we would prefer to pay more and stay at the Westin next time or the Marriott.

Sue, Congrats on you exist from PGN. Anybody else been in prior to June1st with out any word or previos?
Beth

I posted earlier about the length of time since getting pictures and medical updates. I should have said that I have the same agency from Allentown as Monica, Lisa, Julie, etc, but a different attorney (Walter). Has anyone else been 2 1/2 months between information?

Hi Terry-First, Congrats to You!!!
Here is the poem, "Kisses in the Wind, which got emailed to me (and
it's in many blogs/forums). I don't know who wrote it, anonymous?, but I do know it must have been written by someone definitely waiting for a child. Just copy, make a word doc, then download, enjoy! Marie

KISSES IN THE WIND

I hold you in my heart and touch you in my dreams
You are here each day with me, at least that is how it seems.

I know you wonder where we are.....what's taking us so long,
But remember child, I love you so and * will keep you strong.

Now go outside and feel the breeze and let it touch your skin...
Because tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind .

May * hold you in his hand until I can be with you,
I promise you, my darling , I 'm doing all that I can do.

Very soon, you'll have a family for real, not just pretend.
But for tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind.

May * wrap you in His arms and hold you very tight.
And let the angels bring the kisses that I send to you each night.

Sammy-
You went to Guatemala to sign the POA??? They haven't updated you with pictures and medical statistics (ht. & wt.)??? I have never heard of this. Is your agency
licensed here in the US? Are you in PGN yet? What has been your timeline? I don't want to alarm you but, I wouldn't be worried if there is something wrong with your baby, but with your agency. Start asking them questions! Marie

Jenny,
Thank you so much for the information on the Holiday Inn.
I will make sure I let the Hotel Mangager know about the Gross Carpets & the Sute in the pool. I will let you know how it turned out when we get back...we are leaving Thursday AM 9/21/06..coming back Wednesday 9/27/06..Talk to you then.

Rosemarie

Sammy,
I'm using AFTH-Allentown. My daughter was born on Jan 12, 2006. I accepted the referral on March 17. The first medical update I received (aside from the birth info that came with the referral)was June 5, 2006. I asked the same question about something being wrong with her but was assured the delay was no indication of medical problems. Since April, I've gotten regular monthly updates (except for the August update from the July exam). Try not to worry

Sammy,
To not receive any updates for 2 1/2 months is unacceptable. We received & accepted our referral on 5/4 and received updated pictures on 5/26. Our medical update came on 6/6. You should be receiving medical updates every 30-45 days (I believe they take the children to the doctors monthly) and picture updates every 4-5 weeks. You need to contact the agency and speak to a director, someone probably has your updates sitting in their in-box. Feel free to keep me updated.
Monica

Sammy, We did not go down to sign our POA, but know some people from our agency have esp. this time last year when things were "iffy". I can tell you, though, that there were 2 months we did not get any medical information. Our agency (and I would assume all agencies) have to rely on the doctor to send that information to them. We have gotten ours monthly since then, so I guess the must have talked to the doctor. I hope you hear something soon. I would talk with your agency and ask why you are not getting the informaion.
Amy

We are getting kicked out of PGN next week for a spelling error in the Social Worker report and they are also requesting a new copy of the Birth Certificate. Has Anyone had these types of Previos? and how long did it take you to get re-entered?, and then how long to get final approval after that? Please advise.

Lis,

Our case is a little similar to yours. We have been in PGN since May 25, and were told Monday that the birth mother has to come in to sign an additional document (don't know what it is). Our attorney was supposed to get her in this week. This was our second previo; our last one was three weeks ago and it went right back in. I'll let you know when we get out. Good luck!

Kathryn

Sammy-

I am using AFTH agency, Gina J. is my coordinator, and my lawyer is Bolanos. I can honestly say I have gotten pictures and medical updates every month. One month the were late and I asked my agency where my updates were and she said I wasn't guaranteed updates every month. I told her I had always gotten them and I emailed Gina myself and asked where my pictures and medical updates were. Gina must have emailed my lawyer because I got them a few days later. Talk to your coordinator and if she can't help you ask to email your lawyer. After all, we are paying them a fortune!!! At least they could do is tell the foster mother to take some pictures and give them to the lawyer so he could send them to you!!Let me know if this helps I know this process is very difficult and frustrating. Prayers to all going through this process. Thanks, Lisa

Our adoption agency will only allow us to stay at the Marriott. They told us it's the only hotel that has not been raided by the police.

Julie-

Hi! I'm Lisa, my agency is AFTH, coordinator is Gina J., Lawyer is Bolanos. WE got our referral 1/28/06. 2/06 sent Dossier to Guatemala. 4/3/06 DNA authorization /4/22/06 DNA samples taken. 5/22/06 got preapproval notice. 6/1/06 family court took place. Then we hit a bump. Didn't get social worker report written until Aug.30. Entered PGN 9/4/06. My older son's birthday) Now hoping we have a quick exit like the other girls from AFTH. Is your daugther from Guatemala? I was blessed with 2 beautiful sons Brandon (10years old) and Zachary (6 years old). Now the Lord Has blessed us with our Daughter we are adopting from Guatemala, Gabreilla Nevaeh (Nevaeh is heaven spelt backwards.)What is your timelines? Let me know! Thanks, Lisa

Hi Sammy,

Just wanted to put your mind to ease with something that I read regarding one of your comments. We used the same agency for both of our boys and Walter was the absolute best! We did not get photos every month - more like every 10 weeks, which was completely frustrating. HOWEVER, in the end, they were the best! Very professional, completely organized and super nice. Hang in there!
PS - Kisses in the Wind is the world's perfect poem for all of us - how beautiful!

Michelle, you're agency is grossly misinformed. In fact, it's the Marriot that is having all the problems with the police harassing foster mothers. Our agency will no longer allow any of their families to stay there b/c they say the whole situation is out of control. --Anna

Rosemarie,
We will be at the Holiday Inn at the same time! (for a day). We are leaving Tue and coming back Friday the 22nd. It'll just be my husband, myself and our little Katelyn (5 months)
Has anyone looked into re-adopting in the U.S? What is the process and general fees involved?

OK...Some important notes on hotels. First, the comment that a hotel has or has not been "raided" by police is misleading. The police do NOT raid hotels. If they are harrassing foster mothers, it is usually by hanging outside the hotel entrance. At some point in time, almost every hotel has been targeted.

Second, comments about other agencies being misinformed sounds a bit "my agency knows better than your agency". Unless you are frequently traveling to Guatemala (every month for more and more than 2 visits), I would not post blanket statements and assume someone else's agency is "misinformed". It is FINE for you to tell your experiences or to say "hmmm, that's odd...my agency says they DON'T like using the Marriott"...or "I've traveled X amount of times and I felt..."

Now, lets talk about why agencys feel differently about hotels (I may have to post something separately because there is more to discuss and everyone should hear it)....

1) It could be the comfort level of their attorneys. Each agency/attornet may have certain procedures for their clients that THEY feel are beneficial for the "safety" of their foster mothers or the children. Many times, it is the procedure that is more important than the hotel. If foster Mother A is used to the procedure for Hotel B, then she is better equipped to avoid problems (but maybe not completely)

2) Month to month. Another factor is recent events. Any hotel can be "targeted". If a hotel becomes popular with adoptive families, then it may become a target and an agency/attorney may change their "preference"

3) Parents. Yes, parents have a bad tendency to "override" rules by their agencies or attorneys. If you are really concerned about your foster mother's safety and the safety of your case, you should abide by the STRICTEST of the rules given by your agency and attorney. The biggest mistake parents make is to assume that a previous visit makes them an instant expert on the culture/procedures. Believe it or not, these rules can dictate WHY an attorney or agency feel more comfortable with XYZ Hotel.

4)Not quite the truth. Agencies are most often dealing with NEWBIE parents. It is very complicated for them to explain to parents with very little cultural knowledge of Guatemala, their preferences for a particular hotel. So, they may be exagerating their reasons for NOT staying at XYZ Hotel while exagerating ABC hotel as being "better".....but WHOA....keep in mind that police DO hang out in front of hotels and that the threat is very real.

Going back to the Marriott. I know of several very good agencies that use the Marriott and feel quite comfortable with it because of the separate entrances. It is a very nice hotel which accomodates the adoptive parent. But it is BEST if you stick with the recommendations of your agency!! An unfamiliar hotel for your foster mom can add more risk to harrassment.

I hope that makes a little sense....its something I didn't really understand for a few years...so I don't want to sound too critical of other parents.

Danette,

That is great!! maybe we will see each other..I am arriving Thursday after 2pm...I re-finalized my daughter's adoption 9 yrs ago, & I hired an attorney & at the time she charged $600..she asked me to get translated adoption decree, & Birth mother's consent, original Birth Certificate,I think it was like 4-5 pages of stuff..it took a couple of months, then we got a date for court, then after court within a few weeks we received the new Birth Certificate with new name, because I did not keep her original name the attorney & birth mother gave her..so tell your lawyer that you also want to change her name if you are changing her name,because attorney has to fill out paperwork also for name change..it really was not a big deal at all..it was nice when we went to court, we took pictures with my daughter & us with the Judge, (for memories)Our names are John & Rosemarie Duggan, look us up in the Holiday Inn (if you have time) it would be nice to meet you. Good Luck for the big day!!!

Rosemarie

I almost couldn't find this thread. Are you going to put it back on the home page? THanks, Lisa

My husband and I have just stayed at the Marriott 2xs in the past 9weeks and will stay there again. There are hundreds of families that stay there every week and return to stay there because of its safety. have not heard of any raids and we met tons of people of people there!! Iwould think the smaller hotels may have more risk of getting "raided" due to less security but this is totally a guess!!

Hope this helps

Stacy

Has anybody had any experience with US senators helping out if your case is stuck in PGN? I assume they can't do much since PGN is a different country but they said they were contacting the embassy for us and maybe the embassy can look into things. I am actually a little confused what/who they are calling, I am just happy that one of our senators got back to us!

Just wondering if anyone has had any senator experience

Stacy

My husaband and I entered PGN on 6/22/06. On 09/15/06 we found out that there are three previos. How long does the approval take after the case has been resubmitted.

Stacy,
How long have been in PGN? We have been in since June 1 with no word....
Also, we stayed at the Marriott but the Westin was so much nicer, worth the extra money just for the bed alone!

My son has been in PGN since April, without any prevos being issued. Sometimes I get scared that his case justs get "lost in the shuffle", like the file is in a manila folder and someone accidently dropped it on the floor and it went out with the trash. I am sure that this is a stupid question, but how do I know that he is just stick in the thick of it versus lost? I am wondering, too, what the the longest wait is that folks have had to endure? One comment that has helped me, is "They always come home."...its just a matter of when!

Lisa

We have been in PGN since 6/28 with 2 kick outs that we know of. It has been 6 weeks since our last resubmit. I think we are going to look into hiring adoption supervisers, although I don't know how to get in touch w/them

Stacy

I was wondering if anybody has gotten PINK today? I was submitted to the Embassy about 2 weeks ago and with all of the holidays I havent gotten my pink yet :(

thanks Kelly for clearing up ( alittle) about the hotel situation. I would like to hear from families (maybe in a seperate blog) so we can compare different hotels. please include info about rooms/food/ammenities etc... my agency recommends Clarion and we enjoyed our stay there in August . I like the fact that it has seperate living and bed room (all suite hotel) we were able to spread out a little . the only drawback was no pool. oh and the breakfast buffett is sooooooo good

We are out of PGN!!!
In June 1st, no previo's out September 18th!!!
What are the average times with pick slips?
Beth

Hi everyone,
After reading all he comments it seems as if PGN is having slow moments. My agency said that it has been running slow but it is going to pick up.
In december it will slow down again because of the christmas holiday.
It is also very expensive to travel during that time. I receved a referral on 9/6/2006. My agency expects me to get a date for pick up in January.
The agency that I worked with I didn't have alot of problems like some families did. I already
received two medical reports and about 8 pics.
Hopefully PGN does pick up so some of you will have your baby home for the holidays, Keep me posted. Good Luck Ann Marie

Lisa,
We are using the same lawyer as yes and yes my little toddler is from Guatemala as well and can't wait to bring her little brother home. Some of my dates are sketchy but I will give you what I know for sure. Daniel was born on 12/12/05 (same day as my husband) we got our call a week later that he was here and the papers and everything came in the mail about 2 days after that. Our dossier with the POA was sent down right during Christmas. DNA authorization came at the beginning of March and was due to be done right after Easter but was delayed until right before Memorial Day. It took two months for the social worker report to be written and submitted. Family court took place either 3/22 or 3/30 depending on what update you read. We got pre-approval on 6/27 and entered PGN on 7/31. We got kicked out for the first time on 8/24 on their side the translator made a mistake on our address that took 2 weeks to fix and just went back in the week of 9/11. We are hoping and praying to have Daniel home by his first birthday. Our main roadblock was hitting the mess we had with the embassy had with the authorization for the DNA. Hopefully all of us will bring our babies home soon

Doing the happy dance again! Out of PGN 8/14 and received pink slip yesterday 9/18! Embassy appointment 9/27!

Congratulations to everyone that has recently received their out for PGN! We entered on 8/24. Has anyone heard of a recent update as to the date they are currently working on? Prayers for all of us!
Monica

Eek! Has it taken many families over a month to receive their pink slip? We cleared PGN on 9/11 and were hoping for a quick (two week) wait on the pink slip. Any info on this?

Is anyone using AP out of South Carolina ??? We'd love to compare notes.

We too exited PGN on 9/11 any word on pink, it seems to be taking way too long

Would love to hear some pink/embassay appt time lines

I know things are unpredictable, but does anyone know if the majority of kick outs tend to happen within a certain time frame? Like do most happen in the first 3-7 weeks or something?

Also, can anyone please share how lawyers find out when a family has exited PGN? Does PGN call, email, or ? the lawyer when the family exits? Or does the lawyer only find out when they go to PGN and inquire about their cases?

Any one know of people coming out of PGN the last week or two? I haven't really heard of much happening.

Thanks!

I just received an update from our agency. Familes that entered PGN on 8/11 received their approvals from PGN yesterday. This is AWESOME news. Congratulations to the approvals and prayers for all of us still in and waiting and prayers for speedy Pinks!
Monica

Hi, just wondered what the time frame is for PGN now (Sept. '06). We just entered last week. My agency said the average lately has been 40 BUSINESS days. Does this seem about right? Someone told me 1 familiy was out in 2 weeks! Just wondered how PGN is progressing @ this time.

Thanks-Jamie

Our son's case was KO of PGN after being in for 4 1/2 weeks. Our lawyer didn't state why his case was refused, all he said was that the problem was fixed and his case went back in Sept 14! He said his case should be out in 4 weeks with approval! I'm praying he's right.
Jen

To MP;

I have been in PGN since April 17th when my son was 3 1/2 months old. I received one k/o the week of 05/29 and was resubmitted 06/14. I found out mid August that my file had been "sort of approved" by PGN but that they wanted 1 additional document from my country of residence - not US. They have had this document since 08/29 and I too was worried that my file had gotten lost - more than once! No answers from my lawyer or agency. I hired AS and they gave me updates before my agency but as long as it was in PGN there is not a whole lot they can do - just provide me with info. Needless to say, I am still waiting and my son will be 10 months old next week. I hope to have him home by his first birthday as I am so worried at how much harder his transition will be from his foster family to me at this age. I had hoped he would be home by 6 months as some had said it was an easier transition. Praying for all of you long timers who are still waiting like me.

Monique,

We had to wait almost 3 weeks for our pink slip. We got out of PGN on August 19th and it took 3 weeks to get our pink once we were actually into the Embassy.

My understanding was that the Embassy is/was slightly behind (not the usual 48 hour turnaround). However, the good news that we heard through our agency is that they are processing pink slips in the order that they were recieved.

We got out of the Embassy on Sept. 19th and our appointment is for Tuesday, Sept. 26th.

I know some one had a question about kickouts and time lines. Here is ours

enter pgn 6/28
k/o 7/9
k/o 7/19
resubmit 8/9

still waiting (6 weeks from last resubmit)

Maybe soon
Stacy

We exited PGN on September 7 and received pink slip on Sept. 19. Our embassy appointment is Friday Sept. 29.

Jessica, Monique and anyone else waiting on PINK,
I exited PGN on Sept 1 and just received pink today. Our appointment is Friday Sept 29 and picking-up visa Monday Oct 2nd.
Good luck to everyone

Sammy, please e-mail me privately. I have some information for you regarding the medical info, if you are still waiting for that or want to be prepared for any further failures along those lines. Please get e-mail address from Kelly or Kevin. (Hopefully you can do that; if not, let me know on site).

For all, I stayed at the Radisson 6 times and found their accommodations, service, and warmth to be exceptional. No harrassment by anyone and one can easily walk and stroll to restaurants, malls, and shops.

Claire

We entered PGN on 8/11/2006, but we haven't heard anything since. So I don't think that it is necessarily accurate that all of the cases entered on that day have been released. However, I hope that I am wrong and maybe we will hear something tomorrow. I am now at the point where I am not expecting a phone call, which helps me out somewhat because that phone call never seems to come.

Conrad

This is our timeline, I hope it helps those waiting for their pink slip. We got out of PGN on August 31st. The birth certificate and passport were ready by September 13th. They were submitted on Monday Sept. 18th (because of the holiday sept.15). We got out pink slip on Thursday September 21st. Our embassy appointment is on Wednesday September 27th. Good Luck to all. Franca

Just to let you know, I too got out of PGN on Sept 7th and I am still waiting for the pink slip. I was told about 4 -5 weeks for the trip to bring my son home. He is 6 months old. This seems to be the hardest wait, probably because it is so close to bringing him home. Good luck to all waiting to get out of PGN and the Pink Slips. Any news with the progress of pink slips is greatly appreciated.
God BLess,
Terry

I finally have PINK!!!!!! I was submitted to the embassy on Sept 6 and I got my Pink last night my appt is for 9-29. Praying for everyone to get their pink soon.

Terry - there is a process in between PGN & PINK which requires them to get the birth cerficate & passport plus translate paperwork - then it goes to the embassy for pink, so you are still doing fine - we were issued for pink on Weds 9/20 & are expecting it to be issued next week then traveling the following ~ hope this helps!!!

Les,

I think maybe the majority of KO's happen in around 4 weeks, but our case was in pgn for 12 weeks before we got KO'd. I'm hoping we're back in anyday now.

-Lis

We entered the PGN (2nd time) on July 28th. We've been in the PGN for 8 weeks now.

I have not posted in some time. We entered PGN in November of 2005. We were out of PGN Aug. 25, 2006. Case to embassy sept 21 and now waiting on pink.

Monique,
We exited PGN on 8/31, BM sign off 9/1, sub to civil registry on 9/6, new BC issued on 9/8, sub to embassy on 9/11 and received pink of 9/13, our appointment date is 9/27. So it was about a month from exiting PGN until our appointment date but only 2 weeks to receive pink. Our BC was Coatepeque and that only took 2 days, it seems if you have a GCBC that alone sometimes takes a week and a half to two weeks.

I am using AFTH. I have been very pleased with them so far. I have gotten monthly pic and medical updates although one month was late. My referral was 3/17, DNA 6/06, entered PGN 7/20, k/o, reentered 8/17 and now waiting. I have a friend that adopted a child from Guatamala 7 years ago. Her baby was 6 months old when she brought her home and had no problems. This site has really eased my mind.

I entered the PGN on June 21, 2006. My daughter is going to be 11 months old on September 29, 2006. I am distraught over this. Can someone tell me any good news or if there is a phone number to call to find out the status of my case.

PLEEESE HELP. I am desperate.

Stac,
Thank you for the information. You were right. My lawyer called yesterday and we received the birth certif and such and entered the embassy on 9-21. They say we will probably hear from the embassy by tuesday and travel the following sunday. I am praying they are right. THank you again and Hope you bring your miracle home soon. Terry

Melinda and Rebecca
I also have my embassy appointment on the 29th. If I may ask, where are you staying? I'll be at the Marriott. Hope to see you there

Michele,

We brought our son home when he was 14 months old and had absolutely no transition/bonding problems at all. I know all kids are different, but try not to worry.

We're waiting in PGN (8 wks.) for our 2nd.

I am waiting for my two baby girl to get out of pgn one has been in sent june24th the other one has been in sent july10th it seen pgn is back ti little movment agian i do hope it starts to pick up agian
yvonne
waiting on isabel 9months and emily 7 months

There seems to be no generic timeline for PGN. I see there are many cases getting out of PGN in a few weeks. However, there are many of us who have been waiting months to exit. I know of two cases who have been waiting since April to exit. I entered PGN July 5th and have no KO's that I am aware of. Unfortunately for all of us waiting on PGN, there is no rhyme or reason to its processing and it doesn't matter that your case was entered before someone else's. Not knowing what is going on is extremely frustrating.

At least our children are being well taken care of in foster care. The waiting is som hard.

Jennifer,
We are staying at the Holiday Inn.

This is our 12th week, we were submitted 7/12 had a minor previo that was fixed right away in early August.

Do the attorneys call and check on the cases? Just seems odd to sit and hear nothing.

Hi....first time posting, but regular reader. Just wondering what kind of wait times people have experienced (are experiencing) for their referral from their agency? My wife and I have been on our agency's waiting list for 8 weeks now for a baby girl. Thanks!

Brett,

The agency wait list for a referral for me was about 3 weeks. Everything after that seems to take forever.

We did not wait at all for our referral of a baby girl. In fact, we did not even have our I600-A approval back and we got a referral (it came a few days later),
We received our referral on 5/30/06. We are now in PGN as of 9/6/06. The process is moving smoothly. Our daughter is just 4 mos. old.

This is a great site, I read it all the time, but have never posted here before!
In reference to Brent's query, our dossier arrived in our attorney's office the morning of 8/16, and our referral came to our agency that same afternoon. We are currently waiting on DNA testing to happen.

Brent-If you are regular reader of this website, you should know by now that there is not a one-size fits all for Guatemalan adoptions, neither anything being processed in GC or any agencies for that matter.
We waited for our first referral for five months and that was for two boys. Our next referral (for another boy) was only a one-week wait time.
Go figure. Have patience, you're going to need it when you enter PGN. Hope this helps, Marie

Hi Does anyone know how the PGN is going and if there is a phone number for people to call to check on their case????

Like Margaret we did not wait at all - we received the referral for our 4 yearold son prior to getting our I171H back. We've been in PGN since 7/12/06 -Rachel

We are out of PGN today!!! We went in on 7/24 with one kick out. Our son will be 6 months old on October 4th.

Dear Christine,

I feel for you and your long endless wait in the PGN. This is my second adoption from Guatemala and it is a totally different experience this time around. When my case worker told me that no adoption cases are the same she was not joking. With my first adoption of my son it could not have gone better he was home within 6 months the whole process went perfect. This second time around has been the longest haul for me. My case this time is a little different. The birthmother of my daughter is 14 which is a minor. Because of her age her parents my daughters grandparents have to sign off on all the paperwork. Through the whole process American Embassy,Family Court, and the PGN the grandparents have had to sign all the paperwork as well. My case has been in the PGN since June 15 and the family has been interviewed 3 times by the PGN. I even went to Guatemala and went to the PGN to get things moving as I was not going to take no for an answer. After all my first adoption was complete in 6 months.I went thinking that I would get to talk to that someone special(that never happened) everyday with my lawyer and everyday they told me maybe tomorrow my case might come out. That went on for two weeks and I finally had to come home. The thing that I learned from my being in Guatemala for two weeks is that their culture is very differnt and it gave me a greater understanding and appreciation for them as a culture and gave me time to see the country and the way they really live. The people of Guatemala work very hard for little money in which to take care of their families.My daughters grandfather has to take off from work everytime papers need to be signed and he does not get paid on those days. No work no pay. I came to realize that when my daughter is ment to come home it will happen. I know that this is not what you may want to hear but we are working with a foreign country that does things differently. my son who is now 4 understands that he is getting a sister and my family and i just celebrated her first birthday two weeks ago. good luck to you and your family and it will happen, you just need to be patient and listen to what your caseworker has to say. chances are they have been doing this for awhile and will get you through it. My agency is wonderful and when there is news I will hear about it but i have just had to learn to sit back and be patient. My agency has never withheld information and this process with my daughter has taught me that we sometimes just have to wait. The process will in fact make your family stronger and after she has been home a year or two this will just be one more story to share with her. take care kim

After being in PGN since mid Dec. 2005 (a few KO's and lots of waiting and praying), we got the call today that we are finally out of PGN! What a long journey! We got to visit our daughter in July and now we are so thankful that soon she'll be back in our arms again for good. God is so good. The wait does end...even when it seems it never will.

Jenny, Wow!! God is good! Sometimes it's hard to understand why we have to wait so long, but God always gets us through! I haven't been waiting as long as you, but we went into PGN in mid April. We are still waiting to get the call that we are out of PGN too. We have not had any previos, but we were in investigation for a couple of months and we still haven't been given a solid reason as to why! We haven't seen our little boy for 7 months and I miss him more everyday! We just keeping praying and trusting and we know that we too will get that call in God's timing!

We have good news!!! My husband and I receive word on Friday (Sept 22) that we are finally out of the PGN! We were beginning to wonder if the moment was ever going to come. For those who are interested:
Baby born in February
Accepted referral in March
DNA in April
First trip in May
Entered PGN May 30 and had two kick outs
(begin of June and begin of August)
Second trip in September

Now we just wait for pink (we have some experience in that).

Has anyone ever decided to get dual citizenship for their child? Is it possible?

Congratulations on your out & I will pray for a speedy pink for you and your family. I am also curious about dual citizenship, great question. We entered PGN on 8/24 and hope to hear something soon!!!
Monica

We did some research into dual citizenship. What we found was that once you become a US Citizen, the US Govt says you forfeit citizenship to another country.

Has anyone stayed at Princess guatemala Hotel?
I am leaving on 10/14/-10/20/2006 for a visit trip. Alot of hotels were filled or under construction.The hotel is in zone 9. Ann Marie

Whoa...might need to clarify the dual citizenship aspect.

Here is a link:
http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/immigrant_visas/2dual_nationality.htm

Foreign born children can retain both citizenships. However, if they APPLY for citizenship in ANOTHER country, they may lose their US citizenship. If you are BORN in the US, you can not aquire dual citizenship. But the link has a better explaination than I can give.

Waiting in the PGN does seem like FOREVER. We entered the PGN on April 19. Received one previo on June 6th, re-enterd soon thereafter (not sure of date). We exited the PGN on Sept. 20. Altogether 5 months and 1 day. We are looking forward to our quick pink slip as our son turned one yesterday, it is looking like about 3 - 4 more weeks. Hang in there everyone !
Best wishes to all. Mark

Is anyone having their agency bring their child to the US?

Angie: We are having our agency bring our daughter to the US. This is our fifth Guatemalan adoption and we have travelled to Guatemala for each of the prior adoptions. We loved each trip and felt that travelling to pick up each child was an integral part of the adoption experience. The reality this time is that it is too hard for us to travel with so much going on at home. We are very comfortable with the escort process as we have a lot of faith in our agency's capabilities and they travel to Guatemala on a regular basis. The downside ( other than not being able to travel ourselves ) is that using an escort adds from 3 to 6 weeks to the time when your child will be home. LES

Hi, in regards to dual citizenship, I am a US Citizen but I also hold Bermudian citizenship and Irish citizenship through birth. BUT, if I apply for citizenship in another country I am basically pledging my allegiance to that country and that is when I risk losing my US citizenship.

Michele

Angie,

We are in the process of having our son escorted home.

We are doing the happy dance!! We are out of PGN as of 9/27. Entered PGN on 8/11. In PGN 6 weeks and 3 days. No k/o. She was born on 5/29/06. Finished in less than 4 month. Waiting on pink.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to anyone in PGN. It's a very hard wait.

Jamey

SEPT. 28th,
Is there any truth to the rumor that the Guatemalan president might close all adoption on this upcoming Monday? My sister in law has been waiting for her son since last Dec. and we were due to fly on the 30th of Sept. to visit him. She is worried about this rumor and I truly don't understand but would like to be able to console her. Thanks for any advice, explanation etc. Sincerely,
Aunt to Baby Luke.... Angela

This was the third email from my agency. It sounds pretty good.

Joint Council has spent the day receiving and clarifying all information we have received on Guatemala . We have additional information to share with the membership and Guatemala caucus.

The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala contacted the Office of the Guatemalan First Lady today to ask about these concerns. The government of Guatemala has confirmed that they have no intention to immediately implement the Hague convention. They plan to implement these important provisions in an open and transparent way after the appropriate legislation and institutions are developed. There is no immediate plan for any kind of adoption "moratorium. "

JCICS would like to clarify that the U.S. government does not have specific information on the exact date the First Lady's protocol might be signed or made into an executive order nor is the U.S. government aware of the legal effect an executive order may have in Guatemala. U.S. government officials have assured us that they support the fine efforts of the First Lady's working group to implement the Hague Convention, which is clearly in the best interest of the children and adoptive parents. JCICS is working closely with the First Lady's working group and the U.S. government to make sure that the Hague standards are not thwarted by those who would put their own interests before those of the children.

Monica. We too, entered the PGN on August 24, 2006 and are praying for an out soon! Please email in private @ premier@wcoil.com to discuss PGN more in detail. Thanks.
MC

We Got the call today! We are out og PGN after 18 weeks! I pray for all in PGN especially the longtimers! Your day will come.

Hi Marissa,
I sent an email to you at your private address. Keep in touch!
Monica

It sounds like the PGN is moving again and it sounds very promising. I hope this lasts. I want my baby home. I had a dream last night that we went to go pick her up. I can't wait to see her beautiful face and hold her in my arms.

Julie- did your case come out of PGN today, Friday or did it come out yesterday, thursday and you hear today? I am wondering if any cases are being processed today at PGN?
Thanks, Megan

This is to Marissa that said she entered PGN on August 24. Who is your agency? I was just wondering if it was the same one that me and Monica have. Thanks, Lisa B.

Hi All-
Just received word the other day regarding our "pink"! Here is our timeline, I hope it helps others who are either awaiting a referal or in PGN:
6/4-referral of a 1-month old boy
7/7-entered PGN
8/8-KO
8/9-resubmit
9/8-exited PGN
9/28-notified of pink slip
by agency director
10/3-appointment at U.S. Embassy
10/5-HOME!!!
Our son will be only 5 months old when he enters the US. This process took only 4 months. I strongly encourage all who are either thinking of adopting internationally or in-progress, to research your agencies, review your contracts, and advocate for your case, doing so might alleviate any unnecesary delays or fustrations during your journey. Keeping you in our prayers, Marie

Hi

Has anybody who entered PGN on or about 8/22, come out? If so please post or write to me at at sostreicher2001@yahoo.com. Also our attorneys have not given us any info about where we are in the PGN process. Are there stages to the PGN process that the attorneys know about or is it a "black box" that you only know when you go in and when you come out?

Steve who is waiting for little Anna

I am just starting the process and would be very grateful for any agency information you could give me. Is there any agency that is really terrible? What are the good ones? I am from Pennsylvania but would consider any good agency.
thanks, arlene

Steve,
I entered PGN on 8/17 and am still there. Thats a good question about the stages in PGN...I was wondering the same thing.

To Kim who posted Sept 26th......I have not posted to this site before but I wanted to let you know that we are in the same boat sort of that you are. We have a minor birthmother and entered PGN on June 5th. We heard from our agency that supposedly we were out of minors on Sept 12th into the "normal?" PGN. Like you it has been a long wait in PGN, actually before PGN too, and the birth-grandparents have had to be involved. We keep hoping that we really are done with the minor's investigation.
Good luck to you! Marcia

Steven,
Our coordinator/social worker described PGN as a "black hole". She said nothing is know except if there are requests for documents. We will know if there is a previo. Otherwise...just wait until the exit notice.
We entered 9/6. Have heard nothing which I think is good news at this point.
Margaret

Megan,
It came out on Friday. Good luck!

Marie,

Please e-mail me your agency name that got your adoption completed in 4 months. I was wondering if they are in NJ. My e-mail is johnnlisaf@msn.com

Thanks

I don't want to be a downer but I am reaching an all time low since my time in PGN. I cannot for the life of me understand why I am still in PGN even with all of the delays, and holidays and vacations the Directors has taken - I should still be out! I entered PGN on 04/17, kicked out 05/29 for 1 document correction, resubmitted 06/14, told I was approved 08/18 but that I needed to send in a letter from my place of residence and that no further review would be required - just need a signature. Letter was delivered on 08/24. I was told 09/15 that the Director had approved the letter and that my case file just needed to be released. I am so worried that something has gone terribly wrong. I have only had 1 kick out since April. What can I do? I have had AS checking things out for me but they cannot do anything about getting my file released although they also feel it is extremely unusual. This goes beyond the norm. Is there anyone else that I can speak to to provide me with assistance?
Michele

Has anyone just received their "pink" slip? We are waiting for ours. Out of PGN as of Sept. 28th. Jamey

Has anyone just received their "pink" slip? We are waiting for ours. Out of PGN as of Sept. 28th. Jamey

Michele I know how you feel - I have been in since 3/10 with 5 (yes 5) kickouts, and still no approval yet! Sometimes you wonder if it will ever end! My son is 13 1/2 months old - I it so depressing. I feel for you!

Margaret, Who is your agency? What is your timeline? It's neat to see someone who entered PGN the same time I did.(9/6) Hope we get out fast.Keep me posted on when you get out or if you have any Kick outs. So far Iv'e heard nothing . Thanks, Lisa B

Just wanted to let you all know that we went into PGN on 8/4 and exited 9/22. Our attorney somehow "knew" that was when we were exiting but not sure how she knew that. We already had our birthmom sign off and we were "supposed" to have our brith certificate back last thursday or friday, but no word yet if we have been submitted to the embassy for out appointment. Good luck to all! Our total time from homestudy to now has been 10 months!

Can anyone please share how many families are able to find out more specific information about where they are at in PGN? There have been several families that have been informed by their agencies if they will soon be receiving a kick out, if the reviewer has approved their case and their file is sitting on the directors desk for final sign off, if the file was sent to a special investigation dept., etc., etc. Yet many other families never get such an update or information. Can anyone please share how some families are able to get specific information? Does their lawyer contact the reviewer personally, or how does that work?

Thanks!

Lisa B,
I posted to you on the other thread. I am not sure if we can list our agencies here...are you?
Are you also from NJ?
I have not heard anything since entering.
How can we get in touch?
Margaret

Hello everyone,
You can add me to the PGN Waiters Club. I have not been there as long as some, but longer than others. We are adopting 2 non-related girls. Our first case went into PGN on July 12, kicked out Aug. 29 because the director wanted a better copy of the birth moms birth certifcate (our intereviewer signed off on it as approved), back in Aug 30 and still there with no news. The other case went in Sept 21 and that one we probably won't know anything for at least another 3, 4 ,5 who knows weeks more. The waiting is TERRIBLE! Our first adoption took 13 months becuase of the Hague shutdown, now we are going thru this slow thing with PGN. Its been really hard! I feel for all the others out there waiting. I was hoping this time wouldn't be so stressful, but unfortunately, it is and no end is in sight yet! :(
Good luck to all those waiting.
Darlene

This is my first post to this sight, although I have been on for several months now. I have a question, can anyone tell me the process and how it may be different if the birth mom is a minor. I have read some comments that make it sound like there may be some differences in the process, and I am wondering if I should accept my referral because the birth mom is a minor (16). Any help would be great!

Hi Margaret, My agency is AFTH. I live in Virginia. My process started 1/25. It went pretty fast in the beginning and then slowed down with the writing of the social worker report.The social worker report took 3 months to write. We entered PGN on 9/6. My coordinator is Gina and she seems to think it shouldn't take long to get out of PGN. Her other cases are ranging from 6 to 8 weeks. I am praying that we will get out in that time frame. I haven't been to visit my little girl. I'm scared to death because I don't like being in a foreign country. I can't speak Spanish and I'm deathly afraid of flying. I hope I don't freak out on the plane!!!!!!
Anyway, enough bad thoughts. My lawyers are Bolanos. What is your timeframe and and your ageny?(yes you can name them) Let me know. Thanks, Lisa B. Gabbie will be 9 months 10/23 and I can't wait it get her!!!

Kristen,
Just using my experience with a minor birthmother I will briefly explain. Accepted refferal of baby boy in early Oct. 2005 with minor birth mother. Accepted refferal of baby girl in Dec. 2005, no minor birth mother. Baby girl was out of PGN last week. Baby boy still in PGN and has been since June 2nd. Baby girl entered PGN on July 29th, or so, and was out Sept. 28th. In a nutshell, I think minor birth mothers cases tend to take longer.

I've been lurking for a while now, and my heart has been going out to everyone who has been waiting for word from PGN. Last week, we were notified by our agency that we were KO of PGN for the second time, because whoever typed up our I-171H form at the immigration office spelled my middle name wrong, and as a result didn't match our name affidavit. I'm so incredibly angry and frustrated that, now, we're going to have to wait longer because of such a careless mistake, and our hopes of having our beautiful son home for the holidays is all but shot. Has this happened to anyone else? I'm meeting with the immigration office on Friday, but am not confidant that anyting will come from it.

Hi Lisa B.,
We started with Catholic Charities here in our Diocese of Trenton. They are a network agency for Cradle of Hope in Maryland. Everyone involved has been efficient and kind.
Gabrielle was born (we are calling her Elle for short...is your daughter a Gabrielle or Gabriella?) on 5/20. We accepted 6/1. DNA complete end of July, Family court August 16th. The report took 3 weeks exactly. PGN 9/6 as you know. So Elle is only four and a half mos. now. We are hearing good times for PGN 6-12 weeks. Our agency said their max was 4 mos and that was only once. Someone I met here in NJ who returned with her baby in July said technically it should be 20 working days. With the 9/15 holiday in Guatemala, tomorrow is 20 days. We started the international process on Valentine's day.
Be calm. The plane will be fine. I bought more luggage today to fit all this stuff in. We are going with our two children...four of us on the way down and five on the way home. We have not visited. Just hope to be there and back by Christmas. What are your thoughts on that? We may meet you down there!
Margaret.

Also waiting in PGN- 12 weeks now, no previos and little information. What I can tell you is that we did the research angencies (for six months and traveled out of state to do so), we did review the contract (my husband has a background in contract law) and we advocate for our case on a daily basis (this has included several visits to Guatemala). I'm not sure how else we could have avoided this frustration and painful delay. I have come to accept that some things are out of our control and I recognize there is no way to predict when someone in PGN will pick up my file, sign it, and send our little boy home.

For every little one home- congratulations! For those of us who wait, stay strong and know that it is not your fault. Our day will come too.

Lisa,
I am using AFTH in Pennsylvania. I agree that it went fast at first. I entered PGN 7/20, k/o then reentered 8/17. Gina also said 6-8 weeks...it is now 7 for me. I have Monterosso associates as attorneys. I am also scared to death of flying so I decided to have my daughter escorted back which is another 6 to 8 weeks AFTER b/c.

DOes anyone know whether or not you have to pay for your child to be in Guatemala after 6 months are over since referral? I thought that I read that somewhere but can't seem to find it.

Angie

Where are the PGN outs? In my yahoo group and here I counted 10 outs on Sept 28th and 29th immediately following last weeks issues with the seminar and executive order. I have counted only 3 since... all 3 were out on Oct 2nd. What's going on? Anyone know.... Has everyone reported when they got out of PGN? Please do so guys. It is the only thing that keeps me going.

entered PGN Aug 10
KO Sept 11
Re-entered Sept Sept 25

I have a question for either Kelly or Kevin. (or anyone else who might know) I know approx how many children get adopted from Guatemala each year, but how many cases would you say are in PGN at any one given time? Is that even a question that can be answered? And would you have any idea how many parents waiting actually read guatadopt? Is it a small percentage or would you say large. It was several months into my process that I found it about. It was only when my agency stated in an email that others read it, that I began. What other good sites or forums are there other than this one and the yahoo group? I know these questions may be abstract and your answers may be subjective, but I am very curious. Kelley

Kelley,
There have been 4 outs today so far on the guatemala adoption forum. Things have picked up today. Rumor has it that many cases should be coming out of the director's office.

I am with Kelley!! Where are all the OUTS!! I am stuck in the PGN black hole!! I need all the good news I can read to just get up in the mornings sometimes!! Our case has been in PGN since April and we got put in an investigation in July and finally 6wks ago were released back into regular PGN process.

The only problem is my daugter will be one on November 18th!! I have known her since she was only one month old!! Gosh I have no IDEA where all the time has gone!!! I did do a visit trip in July when she was 8months old and I am still here waiting!!!

I would love to know if there is anyone out there still waiting as long as I have. My agency says I am their ONLY family waiting for this long, all their other families are in regular process with normal waiting times. I know eventually my time will come, but like all of us "waiters" I jump evertime that phone rings!! Hopes and dreams of getting my Mallory home soon!!

Angie - We had received information on that as well from our agency regarding the paying after six months. I believe we do need to start paying if the process takes longer then six months. My husband seems to think that it is only if something is wrong due to a mistake that would have been made on the adoptive parents behalf or their agency that would cause it to go longer that then would the fees apply.

Does anyone know when or if there is a large break or time taken for Christmas holiday? I thought I had heard two months off? Does anyone know?

Lisa, when you say you advocate for your case on a daily basis, what do you mean? I would love to advocate for our baby boy on a daily basis, if I knew how! All I know to do is to call our attorney, who seems to have no answer except to cite the mysterious ways of the PGN. Thanks!

I found a list of Holidays from the US Embassy in Guatemala.

Date Weekday Holiday Observed
January 2
Monday
New Year's Day (A&G)

January 16
Monday
Martin Luther King's Birthday (A)

February 20
Monday
Presidents Day (A)

April 13
Thursday
Holy Thursday (G)

April 14
Friday
Good Friday (G)

April 15
Saturday
Holy Saturday (G)

April 16
Sunday
Easter (G)

May 1
Monday
Guatemalan Labor Day (G)

May 29
Monday
Memorial Day (A)

June 30
Friday
Army Day (G)

July 4
Tuesday
U.S. Independence Day (A)

August 15
Tuesday
Feast of the Assumption (G)

September 4
Monday
U.S. Labor Day (A)

September 15
Friday
C.A. Independence Day(G)

October 9
Monday
Columbus Day (A)

October 20
Friday
Revolution Day (G)

November 1
Wednesday
All Saints Day (G)

November 10
Friday
Veteran's Day (A)

November 23
Thursday
Thanksgiving Day (A)

December 24
Sunday
Christmas Eve (G - Half Day)

December 25
Monday
Christmas Observed (A&G)

December 31
Sunday
New Year's Eve (G - Half Day)

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Monica - you are NOT the only family waiting that long. We got our referral when our son was 2 weeks old, We have been in the PGN since March and our son is 13 1/2 months old right now - we did a visit trip to celebrate his first birthday with him, and I believe their are some other families with the same waiting times. It is very frustrating - this is a great site! It makes you see that you are not alone! Hang in there!

Monica,
It sounds like your adoption is very similar to mine and my husbands. We went into PGN on April 17 or 18 and then found out a couple of months later that we were in investigation. We were released from investigation about 4 weeks ago, but we haven't heard a word since then. We met our little boy when he was about a month old also. We haven't been able to go back yet. We're hoping and waiting for the call to bring him home! I think each day gets harder and harder. The hardest part is seeing all of the PGN outs that went in months after we did! I'm very happy for each of the outs. I just feel like it's my turn! I know there are others that have waited even longer and for that my heart really breaks. All we want to do is love these children! I pray that our cases will move quickly and smoothly!
Heather

Hi Angie,

We may have spoken in the past. We are with AFTH, Delaware office & are working with Gina. We also have the same attorney, Miriam. We entered PGN on 8/24, in 6 weeks today! We all need to stay in touch and say lots of prayers. I am hoping for some good news this week. Our daughter will be 6 months old on 10/14.

Monica

What time off does PGN take during the Holidays?

I was just talking to a friend of mine who adopted a child from Guatemala 7 years ago. SHe said that there was a break of at LEAST a month around Christmas/New Years.

Out of PGN as of Sept. 27th. Went on 8/11, was in PGN 6 weeks and 3 days. Baby born on 5/29/2006. Case went to Embassy on 10/2. "Pink" slip issued on 10/4. Embassy apt. on 10/13. Any one else going to Embassy on 10/13? Baby will be only a little over 4 months old when she is home.Good luck to everyone in PGN. Jamey

Has anyone received any updates regarding the movement in PGN the last few days? The last update I received from our agency, regarding cases within our agency were cases that went in on 8/18 were approved & out last week.

Is anyone getting out of PGN this week other than kick outs? I have seen many outs and it is very depressing. I have been in since mid July with a kick out 9/11 for a new medical on our daughter and resubmitted 9/13. I was so hoping I would hear some good news for once, or at least see other peoples.
Take care
Amy Junes
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes

We are OUT!!!! Finally after 3.5 months in PGN. Abby is 6 months today. Good luck to everybody

Stacy

My attourney said that half the PGN takes from Nov 15 to Dec 15 off and then the other half takes from Dec 15 to Jan 15 off.

7 weeks today and still in PGN. Reyna will be 8 months on 10/20. What I don't understand is how we can get so far in the process then suddenly there are problems with the documents. You would think after thousands on adoptions coming out of Guatemala that things would run so smoothly. There is no rhyme or reason as to why there are k/o's in the PGN.

Hi All

Very depressed today. Just got word that we have been k/o of PGN. Does anyone know if once you go back in if they put you on the top of the list or do you start all the way back at the bottom??? I really thought my baby would be home by the end of October or beginning of November but now we got k/o'd. I agree with you Angie, how could you get so far in the process and then all of a sudden, the documents are wrong once you hit PGN. Don't they care about these poor babies that need loving homes that they keep doing k/o's. You would think that petty stuff they would let slide. We were k/o'd for something really petty.

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share our great news. As of yesterday we exited PGN and received the final sign off from the birth mother. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers and thank all of you for sharing your information, continued support, and most of all your prayers! We entered PGN on 8/24, so keep your faith. It will happen.

Monica B.

Hi All, I had to chime in because I see so many people using AFTH. I too am using them with Gina as my cordinator and Miriam as my attorney. I am so glad to here that you all are having a good experiance with them both. My timeline is also moving along well. My POA got to Guatemala on May 22, 2006 entered PGN Sept. 5th, 2006. Our little girl turned 6 months on Oct. 4th. We have been so lucky so far with everything seems to going well. As far as we know there have not been any KO so far. I am Praying for everyone waiting.

Hi Angie, I see you are also in the AFTH Club. When you got kicked out of PGN did Gina call you or email you and tell you why? I was told by my office in the beginning that escorts were not offered because I probably would have chose an escort because I'm deathly afraid of flying!!!!! How much does that cost? IN answer to your question about if you have to pay money after 6 months, the answer is yes. I was told that I would have to pay the foster mom $250.00 a month following 6 months, but so far no one has asked me to pay anything yet. It has been 9 months. Keep me posted on what happens!! Thanks, Lisa B.

Hi Margaret, You say you have 2 children, Are they from Guatemala? I have 2 biological sons. They are not going with us when we travel because my older son is 10 and he missed a day of school last week and it took us about a week to catch up. So he can't afford to miss any more school.It would be neat if we get out of PGN at the same time. My daughter's name is Gabriella and she will be 9 months old 10/23 and I can't wait to hold her!!!!!! Lets keep in touch!! Thnks, Lisa B.

Monica, Cogratulations on your PGN out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It brought tears to my eyes. I can only hope I get out as fast as you did. It was actually 6 weeks, you are sooo lucky, I know you are thrilled!! Did Gina call you or email you to tell you the great news? Let me know where you are staying, what you are taking with you, When you go!!! This is so exciting!! Please continue to pray for me to get out of PGN.(4weeks,and 2 days) I will pray for speedy pink and a safe trip for you. Let me know when you get your pink slip and travel date. Keep in touch. Lisa B.

I AM OUT!! Originally entered PGN 7/20. 1 k/o reentered 8/17 . My SW called me this morning to tell me the good news!!

Lisa,
I never even knew I was kicked out of PGN until a few weeks ago when I emailed my SW to see what was going on. I have no idea as to why. To escort your child to the US cost $2000 to the agency plus travel. Gina told me that it will be an additional 6 to 8 weeks after the b/c is issued. I am terrified to fly plus I run my families pharmacy so to hire someone to replace me for the time and the mess I would come home to would out weight the expense that I would pay out.

Hi Nickie, fellow AFTH member, welcome to the PGN waiters club. I see you entered 1 day before me.It will be interesting to see if we get out at the same time.Prayers to you and everyone waiting to bring their little angels home!!!!!Please keep me posted. Thanks, Lisa B.

I have decided to keep my childs birth name. What is everyone else doing?

Angie - My husband and i have always said that if we ever have a girl, we will name her Sonja. So we are keeping our child's first name, but it will become her middle name and Sonja will become her first name.

I feel like I'm going to regret asking this question, as I still harbour some very small glimmer of hope that we'll get our son home by Christmas... We just got our embassy pre-approval and the DNA results are finally authenticated and legalized and with our attorney in Guatemala. Our agency says it is only a few days (after the attorney picks up the consent) before we'll be submitted to PGN. Assuming we get into PGN by the end of this coming week (Oct. 13 - a best case scenario), does ANYONE out there think there's any chance we'll be cleared to travel in time to pick him up for Christmas or the winter holidays?
If it helps explain my frustration and concern, here is our timeline:
April 14: accepted referral (he was about 2 1/2 weeks old)
First week of September: DNA test conducted
Sometime in September: out of family court
Mid-September: Received DNA results
October 3: Authenticated and Legalized DNA submitted to agency
October 6: Embassy pre-approval e-mail received
Thanks (I think)!

Hi Lisa B,
My two children are biologic. Age 10 and 6. Girl and boy. We are all going to pick up the baby.
They wouldn't miss it for the world. I could not imagine them being home and missing this. We never travel during school but this is a once in a life time trip. I know we will pay the price in homework when we get back but Oh Well!
Margaret

Hello. I have never posted on this site before, but really enjoy reading everyone's post. I have a question and was hoping someone could give me some answers. We just received DNA authorization.
How long from authorization we will get results?
Also, does this mean we are in Family Court and the social worker interview with the birth mom has been complete?

Help,
Angie

This message is for Kimberly....My opinion is this....if you have any expectations AT ALL going into a Guatemala adoption....you WILL be disappointed. I have always in my life looked at the positive side, but someone told me once a few years back....the reason I am get upset about things not going my way...is because I have expectations. I DO NOT want to upset you....but I have been IN PGN for 8 weeks now.....and reasearching all the posts here and many other forums....I will be lucky to have my son home for Christmas. I pray hourly that we and others in my timeline will not have to wait much longer, but all the while knowing I may have to. I wish you the best with your journey, just live in the moment. Kelley

Kimberly.

I think you have a chance to make it home by xmas!! It will be close... I have seen people post that have made it through PGN in 6 weeks and then another few until they pick up.

Good Luck

Does anybody know how long after getting out of PGN until embassy appt? We are hoping to have our baby home by Thanksgiving.

the last pgn post up here is august and i'm wondering if anyone has information about how it's been moving in general over the last 6 or 7 weeks; has anyone reading this gone into pgn or come out?

Angie,
It took about two weeks for the DNA results to get to our agency and to us in the mail. You must notarize and authenicate (your state and the Consulate) the results and send them back.
I believe the DNA results need to be in before the family court interview date. That makes sense.
From the date we sent in payment for the DNA work until the family court date: it was about a month.
Hope that helps you.
Margaret

Angie,

We kept our children's given names and changed their middle names to our families' names. We weren't going to do this, but when the time came, we felt led to honor our birth mothers' decisions to give up their children by keeping the names they chose for these 2 boys.

Stacy,

My SW said that if I don't have my daughter escorted to the US, she would be here before Thanksgiving and I just got out of PGN Friday. I am hoping that since the holidays are coming that the adoption process will speed up a bit.

We found out about a week ago, that we entered PGN on September 22.

Does anyone know how long once you get k/o and go back in before you get released. do you go back to the bottom or do they look at your stuff right away???????

Kelley and Stacy,
Thank you for your responses. I'm trying to keep my expectations as low as possible, but every so often, that little glimmer of hope sneaks in! I will just keep my fingers crossed for us and everyone else and continue to hope for the best. I will also keep telling myself that it will happen... eventually.
E-hugs to all, and best wishes!

Hi Everyone, usually a lurker. Today, I am officially hitting rock bottom. I've done a great job keeping it together until about now. Missing our daughters first birthday and first tooth was the first dissapointment, but we got thru it. Now to think we are in PGN since 7/20 and may not have her home for the holidays is killing me. Any words of encouragement?

Got our out today! Into PGN 7/05, 1 KO 7/13, back in 7/15, Out 10/09. Worst part is finally over. Good luck to everyone.

Hi, I have been in PGN since March, with only 1 prevo that I know about. I am told that the person who works for my adoption agency checks in with PGN, in person, once a week. But, I haven't heard anything else. I was wondering if anyone has any advice as to if there is anything else I can do?! It seems like the check in is only to find out who is coming out of PGN. Is there anyway to find out why he has been in so long? Any advice would be appreciated!

Tara,
I am not sure what you mean about the part in your message where you say go back in before you are released but I know when they need to fix your kick out before you get resubmitted in that case yes you do go to the bottom of the pile at least that is what my agency told me which seems to be true because we've been back in for close to 4 weeks now and originally went back in at the end of July

Was anyone using Marylu Martinez when she was banned? I was immediately assigned to a new attorney at which time I was in PGN. I was wondering if this has caused other families delays in PGN? I had one KO in August (for an unknown reason)and have heard nothing since. My little girl turns five months next week.

1st congrats to Kimberly. we are in the same boat. we got our email on 10/2 to enter pGN. I was in Guatemala visiting at the time.(2nd trip) our daughter will be 6 months old on the 12th. 2nd. please tell me PGN is moving again. I need SOMETHING to hold on to and give me hope that this process will soon be behind us( started july 2005!!!) and our angel will be in our arms forever.

For all those wondering on pgn questions, we entered 7/31 and have heard nothing either way. I actually am in contact with three others who entered on 7/31 and have not heard anything either. Are there any other 7/31er's out there??

be well, Megan

To all those keeping track of PGN outs, My agency said the ones they had that went in PGN on 8/28 came out today. Maybe PGN hasn't slowed down since the treats. Prayers to all waiting for their angels to come home!!! Lisa B.

We just found out that we are out of PGN. I have been coming to this site for so long and never posted before but I too came to rely on hearing when people got out. There is nothing worse than feeling stuck. We went in on August 28th and are out now without ever being kicked out. My heart goes out to everyone who is waiting but at least you know things are moving!

CShelby - hang in there! Your timeline sounds just like ours and we're not out yet either. You're not alone...

To anyone else, what else can we do from this end? We've been in PGN since 7/28 (1 KO on 8/21)...

Hello everyone.
We found out last Thursday that we are out of PGN. Our agency sent us a travel pack along with a list of documents we will need for the embassy. Due to several businesses being involved our 2005 taxes are not complete yet. I know that we have to take 3 years of tax returns but does anyone know if the 3 years previous to 2005 will be sufficient.
Joanne

We too have been in PGN since 7/28 with no kickouts (that we know of) or any news. Count us in as part of the club waiting for good news!

Could someone please clarify a few questions. We got out of PGN Sept 18th. We got our Birt Certifcate last Tuesday. We have been told that the PGN now does not allow you to apply for Pink on Thurs instead of Fri. Please advise on what days you could apply for Pink?
We were also told today that they went to apply and now they need a copy of your passport, the page with the picutre and the stamps page to show you were here at the time applying for the pink, is this true? I assume it is but how long have they needed this to apply for pink as I would think our attorney should know what they need. They made it sound as though this new rule jsut came into effect yesterday.
For all those that got out of PGN, could you put a seperate post of what are the next steps with time frames. At this point it will take us a month after we got our BC to go home... We have been in Guatemala for almost three weeks and we still don't have an embassy appt. Please advise

Beth, We got out of PGN on the 26th of Sept. I don't know a whole lot, but we are waiting for the birth certificate, which was estimated would arrive this week sometime. WE were told last week that effective Oct. 5th, that we needed to sign, date and fill out the I- 600 as soon as possible and copies of our passport showing we visited Guatemala already. Both of those are on it's way to Guatemala now, but we were told this was a new rule to help streamline the process. That's all we were told about why we needed to do that now. I am also curious of time frames and steps from this point. We were told it should take any where from 3-7 weeks after pgn to travel.I've read that once the lawyer has the birth certificate and child's passport, she/he takes all the documents to the embassy and the pink slip should be issued about 2 business days later. But I am not positive. Congrats on your out of PGN! Hope you get your pink slip very soon!

Lisa B,
Any news? We could be next as there are some 8/28 outs I see!
Margaret

Beth,

We were just told that we need photo copies of the passport and proof of visit also in order to get pink. We were also told they need a SIGNED copy of the I600 in advance too. We are doing that now and will fed ex everything to our agency. We got out of PGN last week but don't have the BC yet. Maybe next week

Stacy

got the news that we are IN PGN finally !!! and my agency did have to make copies of our passports to show that we did visit and the date stamped by migration in Guatemala. ( this is a new thing so be prepared to have copies done by your agency every time you travel ) I have been watching this site for awhile just waiting to join in the "PGN party". I wish us ALL speedy exits and I hope our angels are home soon.

Hi Trish Who is your agency? It sounds like you were in there about 6 weeks. My agency seems to be averging about 6 weeks to come out of PGN. Please let me know. Thanks, Lisa B

Hi,

I have been in PGN since 7/20. Got kick out 8/10/06 then "cedula" was not clear, needed photocopy. How long does it take to get photocopy to PGN. Very frustrated at not going anywhere.
Carol

I went into PGN at the end of August (8/25). .not REALLY sure exactly when... no word at all of kick outs or anything. I'm assuming no news is good news! What are timeframes after folks are out of PGN to trip home?

hi all I am officially in the PGN waiting game. has anyone else had to deal with the new requirement about sending in copies of passports to prove that you visited your child?

We got out of the PGN on 9/27. We are trying to get our file in the PGN. We have NOT been to see our baby yet. We are now being told that we have to provide copies of our passport as well as a letter stating we haven't seen our child. The Embassy rejected a letter from our lawyer stating we had not been there. I know that they are requiring copies of the passport if you HAD been there but didn't know they are requiring copies if you had NOT been to see your child. Any one heard of such a thing??!! They say this started October 5th.

Beth~
The Adoption Unit sent an email saying they are not scheduling adoption appointments on Thursdays. This next week (October 16th), they are scheduling appointments only Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. They are closed next Friday because of Guatemala's Revolution Day.

Beth,
I thought you got your pink and embassy apt before you traveled.

Hope all goes well

We are out of PGN - I can't believe I get to type this! We too have sent a newly signed I-600 form and copies of our stamped passports. Sounds like others are doing this too. Hang in there PGNers! That wait is the worst one.

We just sent our lawyer the copies of our passport stamps, to prove we have been to Guatemala.

Has anyone had to send their passport copies if they HAD NOT gone to visit their child?

Andrea,
When did you go back in to PGN the second time? Trying to keep up with the time frames, like everyone else.
Margaret

Hi Margaret, I haven't heard anything yet. I'm hoping and praying for good news next week!!!!! let me know when you hear something. Thanks, Lisa B.

Margaret - We were kicked out on 8/21 and resubmitted that same day according to our attorney. Then 6 weeks later to the day, we're out of PGN - hope that helps.

Thanks Andrea,
It looks like your kick out happened quickly. We went in on 9/6 and have heard nothing at all.
Wed. will be six weeks.
Is it silly to hope we hear something late this week or next week? Am I being overly optimistic?
Margaret

Does anyone else have an agency that tells you you are in in PGN but won't give you the date you entered?

Lisa B- Our agency is Heartsent in Orinda, CA. They have really been great. We have our travel meeting on Tuesday. Tessa will be five months old when we bring her home. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Trish

Margaret,

If your instinct says that it's been too long, then maybe it has been. I was investigating adoption supervisors the day we got out of PGN - go figure. Your attorney should be able to check on you case every day.

Andrea,
I can understand thinking about adoption supervisors as you were over the 2 mo. mark.
At five and a half weeks I feel we are within normal time limits from what I am reading and my agency says.
I discussed timeframes with my social worker last week. Two mos. is when they feel case should be OUT. My gut feeling is ok right now.
I'll keep praying. We got some beautiful photos Friday.
Margaret

ok hold on to your hats.......just read a post in my yahoo group and this woman got THE call that she is out of PGN . did I mention she is out after only 10 (yes that is TEN) days. our time lines are almost identical. we got pre approval same day and everything. I know I should be really happy for her but am feeling depressed over this.(and ashamed for it ) I had to share this miracle with guatadopt.

Has anyone gotten out of PGN since last week? It seems that things are at a stand still again. We are in 8 weeks today, no KO, no previo...just waiting.

Anyone gotten out of PGN last week or this week? It seems like PGN has come to a halt. Please post if you've gotten out.
Moncia, Please update me on what's going on with you. Have you gotten a travel date Yet? Thanks, Lisa B.

We got the call today...we are out of PGN. I am hoping you got the same call Lisa! 5 weeks,5 days. We were told to expect to travel in 4-6 weeks...does this timeframe sound correct? Does anyone have recent timeframes from PGN outs to travel?
Margaret.

there have been several PGN outs on another group i am part of, two with pretty amazing timelines...one out in 10 days, another out in 13 days...very encouraging!

We are OUT OF PGN after 149 days!! We got the news yesterday!! Our last resubmit was on 8/18/06. We hope to travel in the next 3-4 weeks!

Hi Margaret, Congratulations on your PGN out!!! I know you are trilled. Keep me posted as to when your travel date is. I only hoped I would be out at the same time. I guess it's not my time yet!!! Prayers to you and your Gabrielle for a safe trip to and from Guatemala. Keep in touch, Lisa B.

Margaret,
We ahve been out of PGN since Sept 18th and still do not have our pink slip yet with our date, I would say it maybe longet than 4-6 weeks. Anybody else have any timelines?

I am very happy that some people get out so fast, I really wish I would of been one of them. I would like to see more of us who seem to be waiting forever get out. I went in mid July, kicked out 9/11 and back in 9/13 and still no news. I also know there are people who have waitied much longer than me. I hate the waiting and worry because it seems like things keep getting scarier by the day in Guatemala. I dream of the day I can post that I am out. If anyone is interested in my website I just updated it at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes
Take care
Amy Junes

Margaret and Sue,

I think you wanted timelines...we got out 10/5 and still don't have pink! I am also thinking it will be 6 weeks or so

Stacy

Congratulations to Megan and everyone else getting out of PGN!!

Sue & Margaret, We got out of PGN on 9/4 and were told travel would be in 3-4 weeks, but we are going on 7 weeks and haven't got a pink yet. Once they got to the point of submitting to the embassy, there was something wrong with the new birth certificate and that had to get redone, which takes 10 days. We should be going into the embassy again today.

I'm sure most cases move faster...

Amy, I tried going to your website and it said there was no match. What kind of website is it? Thanks, Lisa B. How long have you been in PGN?

Dear Amy Junes,
I just saw your website and it was beautiful! Your baby is precious. We were out of PGN on the 10th and waiting for travel times. Thank you so much for sharing those moments together.
Trish

Does anyone think that the agency that you use has anything to do with how quickly/slowly one gets out of PGN?

We got out of the PGN on Wednesday, September 27th. We got our pink slip yesterday, Wednesday October 18th. It took exactly 3 weeks. Our son was not born in GC, which I hear takes much longer. HOWEVER, we were rejected at the Embassy because of some new thing started October 5th. We had not been to see the baby, but they required copies of our passport and a letter - just as they do if you HAD gone to see the baby. If you have not gone to see your baby, you might want to check with your agency to make sure you have given them copies of your passports and a letter stating you have not seen your child. If you have seen your baby, you probably have already done this and if not, make sure you do. We have our appointment next Wednesday (October 25th).
You probably already know this but the PGN and the Embassy are both closed this Friday because of Guatemala's Revolution Day.

Lisa B
I have been in PGN since mid July. KO 9/11 Rentered 9/13 with updated medical. I have a caring bride site and if you go to visit and type in babyjunes it should work
The website is http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes
Thanks Trush I hope pick up comes very soon for you and I am happy you got out. Still no news for me.
Emily I think it might. Some agencies are having their clients get out in 6-8 weeks and it seems to be holding true for the ones I have been talking to. Mine says their average is 12 weeks and I am over that. I really don't understand it all. I wonder if the same agencies get the same reviewers for their cases.

Emily,
The only thing I can say is that our agency was VERY particular with the document preparation. They also keep telling me not to worry that they were confident in their lawyers. We moved quickly through PGN.
This is my one and only experience.
Margaret

We entered pgn on 9/13 got k/o on 10/5 and supposedly my new paperwork just arrived in Guata. this week. Don't know if we are back in or not. My agency hasn't told me yet. Now they are closed tommorrow and I can't get any answers till Monday. This is so frustrating. I am so sad. Just want to get my baby home. Anyone else feeling blue????

Amy Junes, I finally got on your website. YOur story was amazing. How many children do you have and was your daughter in the photo from Guatemala? Was that your husband that has MS. My girlfriend just found out that her husband has that too. They are adopting from China(which is now taking a year). It seems like all countries are taking longer than they used to!!!! Your friend Keri, was she your friend from home or did you meet her in Guatemala? When I read about her precios little girl it brought tears to my eyes. Was your little girl in contact with her because the rotovirus is very contagious. My little boy had it once and it took forever it get it too stop and that was here with really good doctors. Why didn't they realize her baby had that and get medical attention quickly. It scares me that our babies could get stuff like that and go unchecked. What on earth is your friend going to do? Did the baby dye in Guatemala or had she brought her home? My heart breaks for her and her family!!!when did you get your referral? what are your timelines? Keep me posted. Thanks, I will keep you and your friend Keri in my prayers. God bless you and prayers to all of us waiting to bring our little angels home!!!! Lisa B.

Margaret,
How quickly did you actually move through PGN? I have been in for just over 7 weeks and it feels like an eternity. My agency is saying that it takes 6-12 weeks to get out. It gets overwhelming to see all these people talking about being in for over 3 months.

Emily,
I was out in 5 weeks and 5 days. They said 6-12 originally. I do think they over estimate to protect themselves. That is why I am wondering if the 4-6 week travel estimate is accurate. She did say it may even be early Dec. I am very calm now that we are out of PGN. Just want to be complete in 2006 with everything going on down there and home for Christmas!
Good luck. I am sure it will be soon,
Margaret

Dear Lisa B
Keri and I are using the same agency and we meet when she was trying to chose a agency. I had planned a visit trip and she was able to come with me. We shared a room for 4 days with our precious girls. I don't think they had Rotovirus when we were there. Keri had no idea her baby was even sick until she found out she died. My agency said they brought my daughter to the Doctor but it has been a week and I haven't got any report from the Doctor or photos which makes me very scared knowing they tell you what you want to hear in Guatemala. Keri is having a tough time as you can imagine. She dreamed of bringing this little girl home and had waited for her for 6 months. She was still in Guatemala and by the time the Foster mom brought her to the hospital it was too late. I have 5 children and Dayana is our sixth. You are right about my husband also, so that is very hard. Dayana is in the pictures. Thanks for your prayers. Send me your email, mine is amynjunes@aol.com
My Time line
Dayana was born 2/01
Refferal 2/22
Dossier complete 3/8
Too Guatemala 3/20
DNA Auth 4/7
DNA done 5/18
Match 5/26
PA 7/12
PGN mid July
KO 9/11
back in 9/13
waiting for a out.

Out! Out! Out! We got the call @ 3:30pm CST on Thursday, Oct. 19 that we are out of PGN. We entered on Fri., Sept. 8. We were in for 27 BUSINESS DAYS (about 6 weeks). There were 3 PGN holidays during that time and I did not count those days. I never thought I would be able to post this-I'm still in shock. For those of you waiting: Hang in there, it will happen, really.

Thanks-Jamie

Margaret,
I saw that you are from NJ. I am too, what part?

Hi Amy Junes, My timeline is
Referral 1/23/06
Dossier received in Guat. 2/6/06
Went to federal court 4/3/06
DNA authorization 4/3/06
Pre-approval 5/22/06
Family court took place 6/1/06
Got social report done after 3 months 8/30/06
entered PGN 9/6/06
Other people in my agency were getting out at the 6 week mark, but once again I'm stuck. First it was social worker report, now PGN. This is so frustrating!!!!!! I'm trying not to feel sorry for myself, but it seems like after taking 3 months for a social worker report to be issued, I could maybe get a break and have a fast PGN exist.I guess not!!! My agency is AFTH. Who is your agency and why were you K/O of PGN? It would be neat if we got out of PGN at the same time!!!! Please keep me updated. Thanks, Lisa B

Hi Amy, THis is my timeline:
Referral 1/25/06
DNA 4/06
Preapproval 5/06
Soical worker report6/1/06 Then we got stuck for 3 months with the writing of the social worker report.
PGN 9/6/06
Who is your agency and where are you from? My agency is AFTH and I live in Virginia. I have two biological sons Brandon 10 and Zachary 6. It would be neat if we got out of PGN at the same time. Please keep me posted. Thanks, Lisa B.

Amy,
I just looked at your website and your daughter is beautiful! She was born on the same day as my son Andrew who we are waiting to get out of PGN, too. I pray our both our days will come soon. We have been in since the end of August!

Dear Emily and Lisa
I hope we all get out very soon. My agency is A Family Journey. I am from Sartell MN.
Take care
Amy Junes
PS Jaime that is great news, I am so glad you had a shorter PGN stay. Hope PINK comes very soon.

Emily,
We live in Jackson, NJ.
Margaret

Jamie Adams,
Were you give an estimate of how long until travel? We got out last week also (in 9/6).
Margaret

Margaret: Our agency said to expect to travel in 2-4 weeks for the pick-up trip. Did your agency give you a travel time estimate?

Jamie A.

Hi Amy Junes - I have been watching and reading the entries on this site for quite awhile. Yours peeked my interest, because I am from Big Lake, MN. We are not that far from each other. Interesting!! We are adopting a little girl from Guatemala. We are now in the PGN process and will be 5 weeks as of this coming Friday the 27th of October.
Lori

Tara:
Mi timeframe is similar to yours. I entered PGN on 9/14, got kicked out on 10/10, and re-entered on 10/17. Hopefully, it will be only a couple of weeks more.

Tara:
Mi timeframe is similar to yours. I entered PGN on 9/14, got kicked out on 10/10, and re-entered on 10/17. Hopefully, it will be only a couple of weeks more.

This is so hard. We entered PGN on August 22. After 8 1/2 weeks we were issued a previo. This is so frustrating. Has anyone been issued a previo, and gotten out fairly quickly after a resubmit?

We are out of PGN. I got the call at 5 pm tonight and I still can hardly believe that it is true. Our case is out of PGN. I just hope Pink comes quickly as I can't wait to kiss dayana's checks again. Thanks for all your support and I pray your outs come very soon.
God bless
Amy Junes
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes

Margaret,
We got out the 18th of Sept and still don't have oou pink slip. Get with your agency as requirements have changed on what you need to apply for pink

Jamie A.,
They said 4-6 weeks. I think it has slowed a bit recently from what I have read here and what my social worker said.
Today we are down to 3-5 weeks. I still have so much to do here but will get through it this week so we are ready to do at any time.
Margaret

Sue,
They have told us of all the changes and are handling everything. Our daughter just turned five mos. old. They seem to have efficient people. We have one more form-the changes in the I600 processing that has to be completed.
Everything else is ready to go.
Margaret

So sad! Just found out last night that I had been kicked out of PGN sometime at the end of last month. I don't know what the date was yet. I do know that we got back in within a couple days, but now it will be another couple weeks at least when I thought the end was in sight.

Emily,
I am so sorry that you got kicked out but at least you got back in so quickly. We got out on the 10th of Oct and are waiting for our travel date. Today our lawyer submitted our I600 and the lady at the window in Guatemala didn't believe that it wasn't a copy of the original and not the original. So even after showing her another original (because we always do two of everything) she still didn't believe it. Today I drove into San Francisco at record speed to get my husbands signature on two more copies so they could be fed exed today. What a day. In a way it felt good to at least be doing something in this process that we have no control over. Hang in there though. You will be out of PGN soon!

Amy Junes- Congratulations on your out! Keep us posted when you travel...

Trish

Jenny,
Unfortunately, I can relate. I just found out last night that I had been kicked out on September 29. We originally entered on August 29. In hind sight, I suppose I am happy to have found out after the fact because now we are at least 22 days in. However, until last night, I thought I was at 8 weeks and waiting patiently for "the call". We were resubmitted on October 2 and my agency says it is 6-8 weeks from resubmit. That leaves us looking at another 3-5 weeks which seems like a lifetime when we thought we were at the end. Here is to hoping that our resubmits go quickly. From the looks of people on this sight, 6 weeks appears to be the norm. I pray that we are closer to 6 then 8!

Hi All- Congrats to all the outs and travellers! Has anyone been in for 13 weeks without a word of anything? We are approaching our 13th week and haven't heard anything. I am so discouraged and frustrated and can't do anything about it but wondering what others are doing when they have been in so long without any previos or approvals.
Ughhhh!!!! thanks all, Megan

Ginger, I am so glad to hear that someone is in the same time frame as me. What do you think our chances are of getting home with our little ones by X-mas. I was hoping by Thanksgiving, but I don't think that is likely????
Hope to hear from you soon or email me at pricess08028@yahoo.com
Tara

My agency now says that the norm is 8 weeks instead of 6 weeks for getting out of PGN. Of course when it's my turn it suddenly becomes 8 weeks instead of 6 weeks. Also, when I asked my agency about me having to write a letter stating that we hadn't visited the baby she said we didn't have to nor did we have to send copies of our passports. She said the only thing we would have to send would be a new I600 form. Has anybody had to send Copies of passports and letters stating they hadn't seen their babies? Any info. on this would be appreciated. Thanks, Lisa B.
Amy, congratulations on your PGN out. I'm so happy for you. A little sad for me because I keep seeing people with about my same timeline exit PGN, but I'm still stuck in PGN. I know my time will come but it's getting harder and harder to wait!!!!! Lisa B.

Lisa B,
As per my agency: no letters nor copies of passports are required to show that we have not seen our daughter. Only new instructions for the I600 form. We can not fill it out as they need to exact way her name apppears on the birth certificate (I think they sometimes include the mother's maiden name). Once the BC is complete then we can complete this form.
Hang in there!
Margaret

Hi All,
We have been in PGN since the first week in July. We were k/o on 8/8 and back in 9/11. We just found out yesterday that now they want a new copy of the birth moms BC. Does anyone know if this means we now go back to the bottom and wait another six weeks for them to even look at our case?? Our SW say's no but from all that I have read I think she is wrong. Our daughter will be 8 months on Nov.8 and I see no end in sight. Cindy B.

Ginger and Tara,
I am with you girls on the kick out and resumit in early October. We got back in on October 2 and my agency says 6-8 weeks upon getting back in. I am praying for mid November, so there is perhaps a chance to get my little boy home before the end of the year. I am planning on going down to Guatemala once out of PGN to live with him while we wait out the pink slip. I can't stay away from him any longer! This is truly agonizing!

Lisa, I feel your frustration. Until two nights ago, I also thought I had been in for a while without hearing anything. Then I found out a previo actually had been issued on our case three weeks ago without my agency ever finding out (or telling me). So here I am at week three yet again! Keep the faith!

Lisa,
You need copies of your passport picutres and the pages showing that you visited if you did. You will also need the new 600 form. Our agency did not tell us we needed this and we applied two different times and was unable to so it added about two weeks, at least with the holidays without getting back to the US. We are currently on week 6 and still no pink....Make sure you have the forms as the last thing you want is delays when you are so close....

I new requirement has happened that we have been informed of. When you apply for your pink, not only do you need new 600 forms but you will also need a notified copy from the us showing that you have visited prior.

I am happy to announce that my husband (along with our parents) we are offically heading to Guatemala for our pick up trip. We received the call this evening that our appointment is on Oct 30!!! For those who are wondering, it took us 5 weeks to get to "Pink". The BC was from Guatemala City. Keep the faith...to those who are still waiting. We are praying for you all!!

Hello to all.....I like many have been coming to this site watching and waiting along with everyone else who watches but doesn't post. This morning something moved me to post...to share in the PGN wait....I have to say my agency has to be the worst....I don't think there's been one phone call that I have received a straight answer from them. During my travel my baby boy was sick...we had to take him to the hospital while we where there. I got to really see what THIRD WORLD really means when we saw the type of care he was getting. It was dishearting to say the least and my wife was beside herself. They couldn't even tell us what was wrong with him. My agenacy told us that the doctor we saw was one of the Better doctors in G.C. and I thought if he's good I'd hate to see bad. Our son was moved from his foster mother due to neglect. This again sent my wife over the edge. NOw we sit in PGN most getting out in 6 weeks we are now going into our 9th week. My hope, and my happiness and my dream fade with each tear that rolls down my wifes face. I feel my spirit die when I hear or read stories of foster mothers being detained, adoptions being stopped by the president. All we want to do is help children who might not have had a chance. Today before my wife left for work she looked at me and said "I'll never do this again" we had looked so forward to this experience and it has been ....well only waiting parents can understand....I know every single one of you sitting in PGN with us knows exactly how we feel...words can't express the pit you feel in your stomach....I am a man of faith...this is the first time in my life I look to the lord and wonder.....I will keep my chin up in the face of my wife and to all the other men and women waiting....I hope this ends soon...it's just about a year now and still our little boy is not home...I think I have lost faith ......

We got word we have pink!!!!! Our appt is Monday and we will be there until Wed. Will anybody else be in Guatemala next week?

Our baby was born in GC...it took about 2 weeks to get the BC

Stacy

Steven, I understand your frustration!! I had to wait 3 months for a social worker report to be written. Then I have been patiently waiting my turn in PGN and what used to be the norm of 6 weeks is now 8 weeks. It will be 8 weeks for me next wednesday. I'm trying to keep hope that I will get out next week. The Lord will let us out when he sees fit so even though we have a picure of when we want to get out he has a bigger picture of when he wants us out. So I try to sit back and let him handle it and hopefully my turn will be soon. Please don't give up hope your turn will come. Prayers to you and everyone stuck in PGN. Lisa B.

Steven,
You can lose faith in God in this process but you absolutely cannot lose faith in that beautiful boy who is counting on you. He needs you now whether you are there to hold him in your arms or here to hold him in your heart. Don't you dare lose faith that you will soon be together. This is a process and whether or not you get a fast one or a slow one you can't step out of it. I know it isn't what you hoped for but your baby will come home to you! Don't for a minute think that this won't come to an end because it will. And when it does you will look back on this and you won't be able to remember what life was like without him. It will all seem like a very long time ago. Hang tight and be strong! You can do it!

Bless You!!

Hi

We have a new perhaps worrysome development. We were notified on Monday 10/23 that we exited PGN on 10/19 (8 weeks and 3 days). As of today 10/27 PM we have no notification of birth mother final signature. How long have other people waited for birth mother signatures after PGN? I left a message for our attornys yesterday, they have not returned the call yet. Is a week wait unusual?

Steve

Hi

Just got a message from my attorney 5 minutes after I posted about not having a birth mother signature. If you are the moderator, we would prefer if you take both of these messages off. However if we can't do that than it is ok to put both on if that is your choice.

Thanks

SteveO

For those interested in comparing timelines:

We got out of PGN on 10/9 (in 11 weeks w/1 kick out), and have our embassy appt. set for 11/6.

I'm so happy to be typing this! Hang in everyone!

STEVEN,
I am one of those women with tears that roll down my face.BUT lose faith,Were'nt we the ones who thanked the LORD for our little blessings over and over again.NOW some of you lose faith because things are not going EXACTLY the way you want them to.What does that say to GOD??I believe in YOU when things are good,BUT otherwise I am not sure if I believe!I would think now is when we should show our FAITH the most!IN the eyes of GOD we must look like UNGRATEFUL,SPOILED HUMANS!! PROBABLY the same way people of GUATEMALA see us.THE saying does NOT go "ALL IN MY TIME" IT'S " ALL IN GODS TIME"
AND who are we to criticize how the government of Guatemala conducts their adoptions,IT IS THEIR COUNTRY NOT OURS!!!What if the tables were turned and we had foreigners in our country getting the chance to have a FOREVER FAMILY and all we heard was CRITICISM.WE would probably send them back to their own country EMPTY HANDED!! SINCERELY GRATEFUL and still waiting to get out of PGN

Steve, see if you just keep the faith, god will deliver you out of PGN!!! Congratulations on your out. Don't ever lose faith in God again because with God all things are possible!!!! Good luck and I hope you get a fast pink. Hopefully, I'll get out of PGN soon too! Thanks, Lisa B.

Steve,
I know how hard that was to share your feelings regarding your faith being shaken by this experience. I know exactly what you are feeling. It is not that we are spoiled humans just wanting everything to go our way. The fact if that we ask for God's divine guidance with this very difficult decision. We felt we were called to help a child even though we have 3 biological chldren that are 24,23 and 14. When people ask why we did not adopt from our country, we tell them that everyone is our neighbor and that having visited 3rd world countries, we know that even the poorest person here lives like a king in comparision to so many elsewhere. Yes, you do begin to question why God would allow this to happen to you and to this child, but I am very aware of the fact that Satan is very alive and wishing to pull us away from our faith and what better way. Yes, the faith will keep God close to us and allow us to get through all the hurdles that are thrown in the way.

FAITH,

I WANT TO GIVE YOU A BIG HUG...It seems I hit a nerve with all the CAPS in your response.I came here to post my frustration of a common situation. One which all of us posting here have been, or are going through or about t enter into.The one thing I'm blessed to do in the USA and on these types of settings is express myself. I thought it was a safe place to do it...I must agree it is a time to draw closer to God...but on my best day with the Lord like any good relationship it seems we have our moments of doubt. You asked me what that says to God....it says I'm human..I feel and I'm sad about the present situation...My heart is with my wife and my child. I like every other waiting parent wants our child to come home and get the love and the HEALTH CARE and support they deserve. I am sure this wait will end....I hope your wait ends too and to all the other families waiting...my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope I replied in a way that....W.W.J.D. If you were upset FAITH it was not my intension...Still waiting in PGN.....Steven

Margaret~
My agency didn't think there was a requirement that we had to send a copy of our passport and a letter stating we had NOT seen our child, so we didn't. That held us up because the Embassy rejected our file. They would NOT accept a letter from our lawyer - it had to be from us. I'm just telling you this because this is what happened to us. We tried to submit October 10th and weren't able to until October 16th. We just got back from Guatemala with our son yesterday. Just be prepared. Hopefully it won't happen to you, but it did us. The Embassy seems to change things without notifying others.

All, first time post. In reference to comment from Shannon and others regarding copy of the passport (we have visited twice). Is this holding up the ability to get your pink slip or is it causing a problem at your final embassy appt? I have been reading posts that insinuate it is holding up Pink. My adoption agency has told me not to furnish it until we have our final embassy appt. in support of the correct IR-3 or IR-4 visa determination and AdoptGuatemala@state.gov stated the following: "This new request from the Department of Homeland Security is not related to the pink slip appointment notice. Rather, it is necessary in order to determine if the adopting parents have seen the child prior to the completion of the Guatemalan adoption process." Sound right? Thanks..........

Thanks Shannon. I just e mailed my agency. She always gets back to me immediately. We are now exactly two weeks out of PGN. Still have not heard anything.
Margaret

Hi,

We had our embassy appt yesterday and are waiting for the visa to be dropped off later today. We DID need the signed I600 and copies of passports BEFORE they gave us an appt. There are a TON of families going home today and tommorrow. Have not even seen anybody on visit trips...only pick up trips. It seems that everybody is getting very last minute notice on their embassy appts. Everybody we have met(including us) were only given 2 business days notice to travel. Hotels are very booked.

Good luck to all

Stacy

Shannon,
I heard from my agency. She does not need any copies of passports or letters. A family that is just a bit ahead of us was rejected at the embassy due to the way the I600 was filled out. I guess they are getting picky at the bitter end!
And this is our government agency.
We are still waiting on the BC.
Margaret

Matt~
The letter & passport issue kept us from getting into the Embassy once we were out of the PGN. Once you are back into the Embassy for the last time, you get your pink slip issued typically in 48 hours later. The pink slip tells you what day your appointment is scheduled to go to the Embassy for your final interview. From what I understand, the appointment is one week from the date of pink. Does that make sense? Now you have to apply for the visa one day (which occurs when your appointment is scheduled) and you get your visa the next day. When we went, our appointment was at 8:15AM on Wednesday (Oct. 25) and our facilitator picked up the visa around 3:30PM on Thursday. Our appointment went VERY quickly. We left our hotel (The Marriott) at 7:45AM, at the Embassy by 8:15 and back at the hotel by 9AM. Our facilitator was very surprised. I heard one family was in and out within 10 minutes! Highly unusual.

Margaret - I don't know if it was miscommunication with the courier or if this is new with the Embassy. I just know that it happened to us and I would HATE for it to happen to others.

Shannon,
I appreciate the info. I just forwarded the post on the home page stating what you said to my agency. It says effective 11/27. But it seems it happened earlier to you.
I would like to prepare the copies of our passports and get them notarized if need be. I'll let you know what I hear.
Thanks...I know you are home with a new baby...congratulations!
Margaret

hey all I just found out went back in to PGN on october 25th after 1 k/o. Originally went in on 9/14. does anyone know chances of getting my darling home by the holidays

From what I have been read in other post, half of PGN is on holiday mid-Nov to mid-Dec and the other half is out mid-Dec to mid-Jan. Our agency told us that PGN is pretty slow during this time.

Hi anonymous, I have been in PGN since 9/6. I think our chances of getting out of PGN and getting our babies home before Christmas is slim to none. I'm beginning to lose hope. Lisa B.

Is there any rhyme or reason to previos or time frame for them? Is there a point in which you've been in PGN and haven't had one that you may escape that torture? We have been in almost 5 weeks.

Mary, We just started our 5th month in PGN, there
is no rhyme or reason for any of this. You are
right, it is pure torture!!!

Lisa B. I too am losing hope!!!!

Hi Mary- I hate to be the bearer of bad news but there does not seem to be any rhyme or reason. We were in for 13 weeks, no word and then a previo. Go figure. It is a tough process but one that we must all endure and one that we will all make thru. Hang in there, maybe good news is around the corner, Megan

No, there is no rhyme or reason. We were in PGN for 9 weeks before our previo was issued. We were told that ONE word in ONE of our documents needed changed to a different word that meant the same thing. How crazy. We entered PGN on 8-22-06, and are still in. At resubmit, we were told at least 4 more weeks, give or take. That puts us up to Thanksgiving, AT LEAST, before getting out of PGN. Our chance of getting our son home before Christmas is running slim. I am trying to be hopeful.

Lisa B.,
I hear and feel your frustrations/loss of hope completely. I have been in PGN since August 29 with on previo on Sept. 29. However, I just got an email from my agency last night that still remained hopeful that my little boy will be home for the holidays. My agency is not one for giving false hope. They tend to be pretty realistic about things. So, let's try to keep the faith that our little ones will be home in December.

Mary,
I don't believe there is ANY rhyme or reason to previos. We got ours at 5 weeks and there have been many who have gotten them after that. In any event, keep praying that you will be one of the lucky ones.

Lisa B,
Keep the faith. I will pray for you. We got our call yesterday that the BC is complete. Overnighting the I600's today. Hope to be in Guatemala and back for thanksgiving.
I will let you know what I see!
Margaret

Lisa B,
I too went in on Sept. 4th and haven't heard a thing. I just pray we won't have a previo now. Daily I wait for the call and it never comes. I've missed his first bday and now too have lost hope we will have him for either holiday. My family lives driving days away and it's hard to even plan the holidays because our boy will need some adjustment time. Now I'm afraid the chance our extended family can meet him will be missed. You are not alone, even though I know it is some comfort at the same time it isn't and breaks your heart. Let me know if you hear anything.
Staci

To all of us waiting and wondering if we'll have our babies for the holiday I say I'm with you. My wife and I have been in PGN for 11 weeks with 2 kick/outs.....last kick out was Oct 1st placed back in Oct 12th...I had hopes for thanksgiving...those are gone and now the holidays are looking slim for us as well. Even if we get out in the next week or so the travel dates are far off, not to mention half the staff is away for almost 2 months. I have been lighting candles and praying to god for all of us. Hang in there with me everyone...there has to be an end in sight.

To all of us waiting in PGN, I wonder if we all have the same slow lawyer Bolanos. I got the slowest social worker (3 months). Now I find out from my agerncy that my lawyer doesn't get cases out in a timely manner like the other lawyers. What are the odds of me getting stuck with slow ones!! Just my luck!!!! Praying that we all get out before Christmas. 9 weeks in PGN and counting, Lisa B.

We also have Bolanos. Should I be worried?

Has anyone gotten out of PGN lately? I would love to hear from you. It seems many of us on this thread are all stuck and no one is giving us any hope that things are moving and people are actually getting out. I am hoping that people who are getting out are just feeling relieved and not feeling a need to post?!?!?! I don't know about anyone else, but I feel hopeful when I see other people's timelines that end with an out! Please post if you have had a recent out. Things on this sight have seemed pretty quiet over the last two weeks.

Mary, Who is your agency? What is your timeline? Maybe you will have better luck with Bolanos!! Now looking back I wonder if you are assigned a social worker according to who your lawyer is!!Apparently, Bolanos has no pull and his cases don't get out as fast as per my agency. Have you had any holdups or problems? Have you entered PGN yet? If so, how long have you been in? I'm curious to know how things have gone for you. Where are you from? Here's a for instance: I got my referral 1/25. I'm still stuck in PGN!! Another family using my same agency was assigned a better lawyer and they got their referral in June. They are traveling now. That should tell you something! Anyway, let me know what's been going on with your case. Thanks, Lisa B.

Dear Emily,
I saw a couple people on another group get out the past couple of days. I got out 10/23 and I am waiting for PINK. This process is one wait after another and they seem to get harder each step of the way.
Hang in there and I will try to do the same.
Take care,
Amy Junes
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes

I can sympathize with everyone who has had delays. We've suffered through numerous paper delays (in my opinion, at the hands of our attorney who we believe did not follow up on various document requests within Guatemala), and have finally (supposedly) been submitted to PGN (actually, we were told last week - and I quote - "your case was to have been submitted to PGN today"... an odd turn of phrase, it seems...). Our agency has told us, though, that we will likely not bring our son home until February - and that is a best case scenario - because (1) PGN closes entirely for a "mandatory 15 day holiday" beginning December 15, (2) it is taking 4-6 weeks once you are out of PGN to have your appointment, and (3) the embassy is also closed for some period over the holidays. Of course, none of this takes into account any previos or other problems that may arise (and we can only assume there will be previos and other problems). One thing the agency was not sure about, though, was whether the 15 day holiday is 15 calendar days or 15 business days. 15 business days makes more sense, because that carries them through the new year, whereas 15 calendar days puts them back to work on New Years' Day. Does anyone out there have any information on this? Are we wishfully thinking that we'll get him home in February? He turns 1 in March...

Amy Junes,
What is the other group that you look at for information and other people's updates?

We got our call today that we are finally out of
PGN!!!!! We went in the first week of July and
had to k/o. Are little angle is 8 months today.
I pray we have her home for Christmas. I am praying for all of us!!!
Cindy

My agency called today and said they think I'm coming out of PGN. I'm not to get excited because there might be some spelling errors on documents. I asked if I was out and she said yes but if there is any problems the U.S. Embassy will reject it. I then asked will I go back in PGN. She said no that it would be something my lawyer would fix. I'm so confused!!! Can anybody shed some light on this!!! I thought you are either out of PGN or you aren't, which is it. I don't want to get my hopes up but I need to know if anybody has had that happen to them!! Today marked 9 weeks. I feel like at least there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Prayers to all waiting to bring their little angels home. God Bless, Lisa B.

I have seen numerous outs on a couple different forums. It seems as though some old timers are getting out as well as some that are towards the end of September. Hope That Helps!

Cindy B., Congratulations on you out!!! Hopefully I'm out too or soon to be out. It would be neat if we travel at the same time. Where are you from? I'm from Virginia and adopting a baby girl (Gabriella), she will be 10 months old 11/23. I can't wait to hold her!!!! Please keep in touch! Thanks, Lisa B.

Hi Lisa, I am sure you must be out. It can't really be that hard for your lawyer to fix a few spelling errors. I am from MN and yes it would
be neat to travel at the same time. My kids were
so excited when we told them the great news!
We have three children, 13,10 and 6 and this has
been a very hard wait on them too. I hope it's almost over! Let me know what you find out.
Cindy B.

I have a question regarding PGN and 'kick outs'. My case entered PGN on October 13th; the PGN social worker who reviewed the case asked for more info on 10/25/06. Does this constitute a "kick out"? Are there further opportunities past the PGN social worker review where my case may be "kicked out"?

Thanks in advance for the feedback and hang in there..the mandatory holiday closing is very disspiriting, no doubt.

Lisa - after you get out of the PGN, your file is submitted to the US Embassy for the last time. The US Embassy reviews it (and typically 48 hours later) you get your pink slip. The pink slip will tell you when your appointment is (typically one week after the pink slip is issued). The US Embassy can reject your file, but it does not have to go back into the PGN. Your lawyer will be able to make changes or you can send in whatever paperwork the US Embassy is says you need. So, if your agency is saying you are OUT, then most likely you are OUT! YIPPEE!!

Cheri -- if the PGN reviewer is asking for more info, most likely it is a kick out. Once your file is sent back into the PGN, it will be reviewed again (not necessarily by the same reviewer). Unfortunately, the reviewers don't make a list of all the errors/mistakes at one time, which is why you have read about multiple kick outs. Good luck!

Shannon, Thanks for clearing that up for me!!!! I also found out from my agency today that I"m OUT OF PGN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I was in fact out Wednesday 11/6 which was exactly 9 weeks.My agency said I would probably travel in 4-6 weeks. My file is at the U.S. Embassy and they are getting the birth certificate and will let me know if they need any other info. I do have to make a copy of all pages of my passport and get them notorized and send them to Guatemala. I can't believe I'm out!! Finally a light at the end of the tunnel!!!! Everyone keep the faith because your day will come!!! With god on our sides all things are possible!!!!!! Prayers to all, Lisa B.

Hi All: I just thought I would post that we are out of PGN. We originally went in on Sept 4th and were immediately KO'd for a birth certificate issue. We were re-submitted on Sept 29th and heard on 11-9 that we were OUT. 41 Days in PGN after our KO...which I think is pretty average right now. Have faith those of you that are still waiting! Yours will happen any day too!

I have another question. My agency just sent me the final decree. What is that? when I asked my social worker she said it looked like her birth certificate, but it was in Spanish and she couldn't read it. I said was that her new birth certificate and she said no you couldn't have got it that fast. Can someone explain what it is and what happens from now to pink. I got out of PGN WEdnesday. I'm really confused! Thanks, Lisa B.

Hi Lisa,
We just received a copy of the birth cert. by fax this week. I needed it to register our daughter on our medical insurance before we leave. It had some spanish on it but is certainly understandable.
We got out of PGN 10/17 and the BC just came out this week. I don't think you'd have it that soon but could be. Why isn't your agency telling you what it is they are providing you with? Everything is always explained to me.
We never got a final decree. I think all that comes when we travel. Our I600 just went down to Guatemala and my agency said we should hear next week about our pink slip. I am keeping my fingers crossed especially after this new post with things stirring up again!
Margaret

Congrats to the families with OUTS !!! we have been in PGN for 5 weeks and I am getting ansy. please keep posting when you get an out so the rest of us can have a glimmer of hope that PGN is moving and maybe we too will be out soon. anyone else go in around the 6th of October?

Rebecca,
I went in On Oct. 6, we had a kick out and then re-submit on Oct. 25. So your glimmer of hope is still there. We had a few people out of PGN in Oct. They where in for apprx. 41 days and then received PGN out.
Good luck maybe you will hear something this week or next!!

Please don't let this offend anyone as this is not my intention but since some people wanted to see someone who had gotten out we got out on 10/27 not notified though until 10/31. Our lawyer is Bolanos as well. If anyone who has him wants to email me please feel free to at JCar422162@aol.com. We have yet to get our pink slip or embassy appointment and hopefully will make it down there before our son turns one

Anonymous,
I feel your pain. We have yet to confirm that we were entered into PGN as we were supposed to have been last week, and at this point do not expect to pick up our son before he is one in March. My fingers are crossed for you that everything will go smoothly from here on in.

Sherry, sorry you got kicked out. I am praying we are out soon. my daughter is 7 months old now. (we first saw her picture when she was 1 day old. and accepted her referral soon after)
we started this adoption July 1st of 2005. Rebecca

anonymous, I have Bolanos as well. He was very slow. But, we went in PGN on 9/6 and he got out 11/8. Exactly 9 weeks. We got out last Wednesday and he sent us the final decree(birth mother signing off for last time) on Friday 11/10. I thought that was pretty fast. My agency said I would travel in 4 to 6 weeks. I've heard it takes at least 2 weeks before you get the birth certificate, then you have to submit that to embassy for pink slip, then you get your travel date. If you were out on 10/31 then it has just been 2 weeks. Did he send you the final decree? It hasn't been over 2 weeks yet, that's probably why you haven't gotten the birth certificate. Things are seeming to be moving slower now for pink slips. Who is your agency? Where are you from? What is your timeline up to now? It would be neat if we all travel at the same time. I think my agency said I would be staying at the Mariott. Has your agency told you when to expect to travel? I'm hoping we go before Christmas, what a wonderful Christmas gift that would be to have her home for Christmas. Let me know what's going on. Thanks, Lisa B.

I am still waiting on PINK and I can hardly take it. I want to bring my daughter home and can't understand why everything has to take a long time with my case. We got out 10/23 and I heard from my agency that they had the birth certificate on 11/9 and haven't heard a word since. I wanted to go down and wait but my agency discouraged that in case there is a problem at the Embassy. Anyone else waiting on PINK still? My hopes to have her home for Thanksgiving are fading fast and with it my heart is so heavy.

Amy,
We are waiting on pink since getting out of PGN 10/17. We heard that the passport was complete and the file went to the embassy yesterday. However, there was a typo on the baby's DOB on the I600 that I did not catch. So, it may be rejected. The new one/corrected one will be there tomorrow.
Thanksgiving is fading fast for us also as it is a short week. I wouldn't mind spending Thanksgiving there at all!
I hope to hear something by Friday.
Margaret

we just found out that we got KO'd last week(.my agency thinks it had to do with the name affidavid page.) we were re submitted Monday 11/13. we originally went in 10/6.

Rebecca,
Sorry to hear about your KO sounds like this seems to be the on going theme with PGN.
Hopefully we will be out very soon !!
Sherry

I am leaving on Saturday to go and see my son for the second time. I have now been in PGN for 6.5 weeks post one previo. I am hoping and praying to get out of PGN by the time I am supposed to return on November 25th. This week has been really tough for me. I am trying to stay hopeful that it will happen in the 6-8 week window that my agency told me, but I am starting to feel nervous that perhaps we will be one of the PGN old timers. We went into PGN on Aug. 29 and got kicked out on Sept. 29. We were resubmitted on Oct. 2 and here we stand. It doesn't seem like a lot of people have been sharing their outs this week. Has vacation begun in PGN?

Are there many people out there who have found themselves in PGN longer then 6-8 weeks after a kick out and without another previo?

I just finished filling out 3 I-600 forms that have to be sent along with a notarized copy of our passports tomorrow. My hand is tired!!In the travel packet I received, I'm supposed to fill out an affidavit of support I-864. Does anybody know if that is sent before you go or do you take it with you to the U.S. Embassy appointment? Also, I have to take last years tax returns that have to be notarized. Anyone know if one year is good or do you have to take the past 3 years of tax returns? Also, to answer the question that was asked a while back about having to pay the foster mom past 6 months, it is true. I have to pay the foster mom $1500.oo which I wasn't expecting!! Plus, I found out that my homestudy is going to expire at the end of the month. Addional cost!!!! Everything is coming at me at once. I'm getting overwhelmed!!!! Thanks, Lisa B.

THANK YOU GOD!!!! THANK YOU GOD!!!! WE found out today we got approved from the PGN yesterday NOV.15th!! which was also our sons 1st BIRTHDAY!Here is our timeline HOPE IT HELPS
Referal 2-23-06 he was 3months 8days old
DNA authorization 4 months later 6-28-06
2-3 weeks later notified it was a match
family court 7-10-06
took socialworker exactly 5 weeks to complete report 8-16-06
enter PGN 8-23-06
K/O 9-20-06 (wanted updated medical for our son)
back in PGN 2 days later 9-22-06
APPROVED 11-15-06 EXACTLY 12 weeks from entering
9 months from referal to exiting PGN
We were told 3-5 weeks to travel
KEEP YOUR FAITH IT WILL HAPPEN!

Has anyone while in PGN had their file sent to the Penal section of the Minor's section for a possible investigation? We have been in PGN since July 5th, 2006 without any kickouts and on November 10th found out from Adoption Supervisors that our file had been sent to the Penal section of PGN. We have no idea what this is about because we've been told that once a file goes for investigation PGN will not give out any information about the reason. Apparently the director is asking the Penal section to decide if their are grounds for a Penal investigation by the Ministerio Publico. I don't understand what all this means, what the implications are or what the possible reasons for an investigation might be. We accepted our referal on December 6th last year. Our baby girl was born on November 29th so she is about to have her first birthday. I had hoped she would be home by the end of this summer and it has just extended longer and longer and now she won't even be home for her birthday, probably not even for Christmas and as best as I can tell maybe never. If anyone has any experience with this please contact me. My e-mail is kirish@mindspring.com

We did 3 yrs of tax returns to bring to the embassy appt, although not sure if they even looked at them. Also , we filled out the I864 but I think you only need it if you didn't visit(we didn't end up needing ours but better safe than sorry)

Also, tonight my husband and I actually sat down and looked at all of the paperwork we got when we came home 2 weeks ago. We noticed that the PGN paperwork said we were approved Aug 30 but we weren't told until Oct 5. Is that normal to have a 5 week difference? Now we are thinking that we were only in PGN for 9 weeks, not 14 weeks. I guess there is nothing we can do at this point but just wondering if anybody else has had that experience.

Good luck to all

Stacy

so many ko's this week and so few outs. is it me or does that just make this holiday season seem sad?

We are out too! Got the call yesterday. Referral was 8/8. She is just under 4 months old. She will be 4 months on Dec 5. We were told we could travel in as little as a week and a half. We will know more Monday. We were in PGN (with Bolanos who we love) for only 6 weeks, 1 day with no kickouts. Our agency had 5 outs in one week and only one family had a kick out! Keep the faith!

Hey all.....I have watched a few of us get out after 9 weeks or so....I'm into my 13th week....I hope for an out soon....I've had 3 k/o's...It will happen....it will...

Sherry, thanks . I would like to email you privately. you can email me at hernandezrands@aol.com. our little girl is 7 months old and that stupid ko after 5 and 1/2 weeks in was just rotten. can anyone tell me after ko how long they were in before finally getting out of PGN ? and I know this has been asked before but also what happens when you re enter after ko? do you get same reviewer and do you pick up where you were kicked out? any hope for our angel to come home this year??

PLEASE can you post your timelines for when you exited PGN to your travel to bring home your angels!

Can anyone tell me if Adoption Supervisors are credible and how much do they charge to check on your case????

Yes Rebecca, I agree this holiday season does seem sad. I was hoping my daughter would be home for x-mas but my hopes are dying fast. we have been in PGN for a while now.

Let me get this straight, You got your referral on Aug.8 and You came out of PGN Nov.17. I find that hard to believe. You got DNA results, preapproval, social worker report, etc. done in 2 months? Am I understanding this right. In PGN for 6 weeks sounds right I guess. YOur going to travel in one and a 1/2 weeks? Who is your agency? I'm blown away. I also had Bolanos and we got our referral 1/23 and we just got out of PGN 11/8.(which I found out we really got out 11/6, but he didn't notify my agency until 11/8. I also wonder if we didn't get out sooner because when we received the final decree (which is where the foster mother is supposed to sign off on baby for last time after you get out of PGN) it was dated September 28 from PGN. Anyway congratulations on your speedy timeframe!! We were told we would travel in 4-6 weeks. It's been one week and we don't even have the birth certificate yet. Another couple from our agency has Bolanos and they went in PGN same time we did and they are still in PGN. Your lucky, my daughter will be 10 months 11/23. Keep me posted I'd love to see if you travel before me. What's your secret for him being soo fast with your case? Lisa B.

I'm starting my 13 week in PGN. One k/o but back in by 10/17. . .no idea when I'll be out. It's making the holidays hard. I thought she'd be home by now. Don't worry.. I haven't lost faith. As a matter of fact, it's my faith that's getting me through! Blessings to all for a great holiday. .not matter what stage you're in!
Kristen.

today we have been back in PGN for a week. this is going to be a very hard week. ..... Wed. is our wedding anniversary and of course thurs. is Thanksgiving. I am praying for alot of outs this weeks so please post if you get out and give me (and others) some hope. ps thanks Sherry any news?

Lisa,

Our first referral fell through when BM changed her mind. I don't know why ours went so fast but it seems to go that way with our agency (KidsFirst) as I said they had 5 outs in one week. 3 from Bolanos. They are very thorough with their paperwork expectations which we had been working on since Feb. I don't know when we will travel but our BM supposedly signed the pink slip Friday so we are just waiting on embassy appt. and birth certificate. Good luck and God Bless!

Anonymous,
Tomorrow we are out of PGN five weeks and still no pink slip. We entered the embassy one week ago 11/14. Have heard nothing.
I am going to prepare passport copies tomorrow and overnight them as that new law goes in to effect 11/27.
Our baby girl is 6 mos. old today.
It is so hard to wait,
Margaret
ps-they said 4-6 weeks to travel so it looks like 6 weeks at best at this point.

We got the call today that we are OUT of PGN! We entered on 7/27, were kicked out on 10/30, re-entered on 11/3 and OUT today. We're hoping for a speedy PINK! Best wishes to everyone waiting. I never thought our call would come, but it finally did!

I accepted my referral in May. Got kicked out of PGN in August and again in October. I have been assigned to a new attorney because the first one was banned for some unknown reason by the US Embassy. I visisted her the first time recently and there were so many families there bringing their children home. She is six months old now and I am missing her terribly. I am considering hiring Adoption Supervisors. Do you think it would help?? I am not sure if the attorney changes will affect the timeframes. Are timeframes different for single women??

Dear Margaret, I feel your pain, It is one month today for us and still no PINK. We hope to hear this week but each day goes by with no appt. It is hard to believe it will ever happen. I have gone from being so excited to so angry that this is taking so long. They got the passport a week ago, so you would think I would have PINK by now. Hope you get news very soon. For some reason I thought this part of the process would go smoothly. Someone cashed in my reality check!
Hang in there
Amy Junes
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes

Hi Everyone,

I read here more frequently now that I have been in PGN since July 20th, kick out August 10th and still have not moved. I am single and only want like us all to get our babies home.

My issue is with a birth cert that had the wrong "time" , says 21:50, not possible the civil regristy is closed. Supposely my lawyer has been working on it "immediately" and now almost 4 months later, still no progress. Latest news, almost 3 weeks waiting for my file to be picked up at the window, so my lawyer can go to the regristy, correct the error and resubmit me back to PGN.To think that I have still to be resubmitted to PGN. So for all of you who are out, I am happy for you. For all of us waiting long and anxiously for updates daily, my heart is with you.

Carol D

Mary, when you say birth mother signed pink slip do you mean the final decree? Our birth mother signed final decree 11/10. Have you wired final payment over along with notarized copies of passport and 3 I-600 forms? we just did that Friday 11/17. It's been one week since they applied for birth certificate. I wonder how long it takes to get birth certificate back. She wasn't born in Guatemala city( I heard that takes longer). It will be neat if we travel at the same time!! We are staying at the Marriot? Where are ya'll staying? We're supposed to have an escort provided by Bolanos. Will you have one? Keep me posted on what happens!! Prayers to all waiting to bring our little angels home!!! Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!! Lisa B.

Amy,
My agency is calling Guatemala today as we were submitted to the embassy one week ago. We'll see. I am off the overnight passport copies as that new law takes effect Monday. I want them there just in case.
Five weeks today waiting for this pink slip. I know we are close but this is the worst part.
Let me know what you hear.
Margaret

Rebecca H,
No news yet. Still waiting to here something. I did email you, just want to make sure you received it. Our agency had at least three outs yesterday, so PGN is moving. Hopefully we will be next. My email is mystic@epix.net if you want to try and contact me.

Sherry

congrats April. I am praying to say those words too and soon. out out wow sounds soooo good. I just want all the angels to come home. Sherry sent you email too did you get it?

Hi April- CONGRATS! We are almost on the exact timeline as you: entered PGN July 31, kicked out Oct. 31 and resubmitted Nov. 9. I am so happy to hear of someone who got out so quickly after a previo. What agency are using? How old is your little one? I can only hope to be as fortunate as you. At this point, I am going crazy with the wait! : )

Again, congrats! Take care, Megan

Rebecca H. and Megan, THANKS for your notes. Our little boy is 9 months today! We are hoping he'll be with us by his 10 month birthday, but there's no guarantee. We're just happy to be this much closer to the end! Our agency is in MN. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone still in PGN. Hang in there! Your day will come SOON! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

I was told that PGN will be closed on Nov.23 and 24? As far as I know, these days are not holidays in Guatemala??

does anyone know if PGN closes for Thanksgiving? also please keep posting when you get out and include timelines too. it helps to see that people really do exit PGN.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of us in PGN.
( we cancelled Thanksgiving at our house this year)

Dear Margaret,
Did your agency find anything out when they called? My agency emailed that they thought I would have PINK by Wednesday but no news since then and Wednesday is half over already. Hope you hear good news soon, I hope we both do. These long waits for PINK are so hard. My email is amynjunes@aol.com and my website for my lovely baby is http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/babyjunes
Take care
Amy Junes

The PGN is open for Thanksgiving and Friday. They do NOT close. The Pilgrims did not land in Guatemala.

As far as everyone in the PGN including myself, forget it. They have our money and don't care about these babies.

Hi all,
I am in Guatemala right now on my second visit with my son. We have been in touch with our attorney since being down here and PGN is NOT closed for Thanksgiving. It is the embassy (obviously) that is closed. FYI: my attorney's office only finds out their clients that get out of PGN on Thursdays. They go to the PGN window at 4:30pm with a ticket, and they get the list of everyone that gets out. While I am not certain, I imagine that every attorney's office has their own day. This is probably how they keep the lines at PGN down. Also, in regards to Stacy's email about looking at the date her paperwork said she was out of PGN verses when she got the call. My attorney's office said that once your reviewer signs off on your paperwork and dates it, it goes to the director's desk to get his final signature. He only signs a certain amount of files a day. So people can have their finished file sitting on his desk for awhile before he gets around to declaring you officially out. Hope this all makes sense. Praying we get out today. Andrew is almost 10 months old and we have been in PGN for 7.5 weeks since our one and only kickout...12.5 weeks since we first got in. This trip confirmed that I am staying in Guatemala now until we are ready to take him home. His transistion was too tough this time to make him go through it again. Good luck to us all and try to have a happy Thanksgiving!

Our prayers have been answered. We are out of PGN as of today! What a happy Thanksgiving it has been. Our agency said there were a lot of outs today. Living at the Marriot has suddenly gotten a whole lot easier now that we are only waiting pink and there is an end in sight. Keeping you all in my prayers!

Dear Emily,
Congrats on your out!!! We sat in PGN for 101 business days and it was really hard. We have been out for two week's now and have not heard anything. I am wondering, does your agency think you will be home with your little guy by christmas? Our little Lucy will be 9 months on
12/8. I pray she is home soon! I guess I thought
this part wouldnt take so long.
Again, Congrats on your out!!!!
Cindy B.

congrats Emily !! that was a great Thanksgiving present (and you thought you only recieved gifts at Christmas) lol could you share your time line again please?,

Emily, we too were told that we were out of PGN as of yesterday. Our facilitators thought it might be a good idea if I would come down and foster my child until we get pink, however I am a little scared to do so by myself. Could you email me so I could find out a little more about how you are doing? My email is smknight@verizon.net.

In regards to Emily's post, who has the best interest of the child in mind, when the case has been approved, but the director only signs off a few cases at a time? That is absurd. Do the people in Guatemala's legal system have any training or education on parental bonding, orphaned children or the effects of orphanage life? From the looks of all of the people who are waiting in PGN, the answer has to be NO. We have been in PGN since August 22, with one previo. The reason for the previo was so that ONE word on ONE document could be changed to another word that meant the SAME thing. You cannot tell me that correction was for the benefit of the child. I can understand when there are incorrect dates on documents or other obvious mistakes that need attention. My prayer everyday for the last 3 plus months has been that someone in PGN will do what is best for these orphaned children. Good Luck to all.

Hi All, has anyone any information. I have been waiting for my "file" to make it to the pick -up window for 4 weeks now. This is something that should take about 4-5days. Once that happens my attorney has to go the the civil registry to fix the birth certificate error that has me in PGN since August 7th.

When will this ever end. It just all seems so unfair. My attorney is Rafael Morales. Anyone ever used him, heard of him. By the way, he should not have submitted my file to PGN the "error" is something he should have caught before hand.

Hang in there everyone

Hello Frances,
sorry to hear about the BC error. We also had an BC error. Our laywer caught it before we went into PGN. He fixed it before we went into PGN on 19 september. We had 1 KO (not BC) and resubmitted on 30 october. Last week we received an update.Our laywer thinks that we come out of PGN approved very soon and that we can have our son at home before Christmas. If you want to know something specific you can email to svoshaar@hotmail.com. Hope to see your out soon.

Hi Everyone,
I thought once I was out of PGN everything would be smooth sailing. Tuesday will be six weeks out and still no pink slip. I am praying this week will bring us a date to travel. The embassy is doing insane things...making their wait similar to the familiar PGN nightmare.
Hang in there everyone. It is almost December!
Margaret

Rebecca,
We got into PGN on August 29. Kicked out for some "frivalous" reason as my agency said on Friday, September 29. Resubmitted on Monday, October 2 and out on November 23. It took us 12w 2d from orginal date and 7w 3d from kick out. Hope that helps.

We are starting our 14th week in PGN with no real end in sight. I want to take my wife to see my son over the holiday even if we can't take him home. I'm wondering if anyone here thinks it's a bad idea to go back for a week and take him AGAIn out of his foster families home. I don't want to upset him but we'd love to see him over the holiday. Just looking for some feed-back....OH BTW FAITH...congrats on your out of PGN...one less woman with tears in her eyes....only tears of JOY I hope.

Cindy B,
My agency has been pretty right on with their timeframes. They said 6-12 weeks in PGN and I was in for 12w2d. They said 6-8 weeks after a previo and I was out at 7w2d. Soooooo, they said 3-4 weeks for pink. That would have us home for the holidays. Seeing as this hotel (Marriot) is getting smaller and smaller by the day, I sure hope we are home by Christmas. Let's keep praying!

Emily,
How long are people you meet at the Marriott waiting (or waited) for pink slips? Am I the only oddball out 6 weeks today and still waiting??
Margaret

Steven,
I definitely suggest you visit your son again. I think the more times he sees you the easier his final adjustment will be whenever that may happen. The hope is that with each visit he will remember more.

Margaret,
I am sorry to say that most people (however there are exceptions here, too) are getting pink in three weeks and traveling on the fourth week. You have to be right around the corner. You are in my prayers.

Steven, I too am in my 14th week of PGN. I'm considering a holiday visit too. I'm hoping I'll be out soon and my visit will turn into a pick up! Let's stay positive!
Happy Holiday!
Kristen.

please post if you get out. it seems like I haven't seen alot of outs this week. we have been back in PGN for 2 and 1/2 weeks now with no word. I am losing hope with each day that goes by. could somebody tell me how long the wait was for them to finally get out of pgn after a KO?

We got out of PGN on November 13th. So we are in our 3rd week of waiting for pink slip. Our son was born in Guatemala City. We are told that we will have him home for Christmas. We are so excited. We were in PGN from June 23rd until November 13th with 3 previos. It was the most stressful time of our lives. Hard to hold it together at times but we know that it will be well worth it and prayer has held me together thoughout this process. Maybe some of us will travel and meet there? We are staying at the Tikal Grand Hotel. Has anyone else traveled and stayed there? We have not visited at all throughout this process. Good luck and God Bless

Emily,
We were rejected a third time. Again, something crazy with the I600. My social worker from my agency is arriving there today and has new forms to resubmit today or tomorrow herself.
I hope we are right around the corner. I just don't know how many times you can correct the same form and they find something else. It is so senseless.
Margaret

I have been in PGN since the end of June with one kickout and resubmit in the beginning of October. I visited in June and put off another visit because 'I would be out of PGN soon...'
I just came back from a visit trip over Thanksgiving. When I made the plans I hoped they would change into a pick up but they did not. In the meantime I had a wonderful visit with my daughter. It is bittersweet because I never expected she would not be home for the holidays. But if you can afford the money and time I recommend visiting while you wait.
Katie

It has been helpful to me to see timelines posted on this site. So, I wanted to share mine:
DOB 7-13-06
Referral 7-15-06
Lab Results 8-14-06
Family Court 9-1-06
Enter PGN 9-6-06
Out PGN 11-28-06 (12 weeks)
I am now awaiting the pink slip. My agency said to expect it in 3-6 weeks.
Just a little bit longer...
Patricia

Hi Guys,

I have been in PGN since August 10th (previo) and no end in sight. Still waiting 4 weeks later for my file pick -up so lawyer can do what he has to do with b/c and then resubmit.

I am beyond angry, frustrated. Anyone any clue what I should do about my file that should have taken 5 days, still not ready for pick up. I fear something else is wrong.

Margaret,
I am sooooo sorry about you post PGN nightmare. As if we haven't all be through enough, now the American side has to make us wait, too. I never filled out the I600. My agency had me send it to them signed, but not dated or filled out. I hope your social worker can get this all figured out.

Does anyone know how they contact you about pink. Is it similar to the preapproval which came as an email? Just curious what I should be on the look out for even though I know I still have a couple weeks to go.

Hi All,
I want first to let all those who have been waiting in PGN for so long how much I truly empathize with you. The only way I've known how to describe these past weeks has been torture. I got a call from my agency tonight that we are out of PGN as of yesterday and I'm ecstatic. We had a bumpy road before PGN, but by the grace of God, our stay in PGN was 33 business days. I'll be saying my prayers tonight, so that all those beautiful babies will be home with their forever families SOON!!!

Here's my timeline:

DOB 12/13/05
Dossier ready 1/30/06
Referral 4/10/06
1st DNA test where Foster Mom was stopped by Police, arrested, and questioned re: their claims of false documents - Adopton halted 5/5/06
2nd DNA test 5/26/06 - Adoption still cannot proceed
Court case where Judge approved adoption can proceed 6/28,
But wait, Judge didn't sign off on judgement until 7/24/06
Start family court process again
Out of family court 9/25/06
In PGN 10/11/06
Out of PGN 11/28/06

Emily,
My agency also filled out the I600. We just signed. The first two rejections were our signatures (claiming they were photocopies) the third was the way the agency filled something in-the same way they have done for every family and it has never been a problem before.
My social worker said she would call me with the pink once our facilitator has it in hand.
I know she is there now trying to fix things. I must have faith we are just about there.
I'll let you know,
Margaret

Emily -- your agency will tell you when you get your pink slip. Once your file gets out of the PGN, it is sent to the US Embassy. The pink slip is typically issued 48 hours after being entered to the Embassy. From what I understand, most final appointments are typically scheduled for one week after the pink slip is issued.

When you go to pick up your child, you will need to have your I-864 and the I-600 forms completed.

For all of you still waiting -- hang in there!! It WILL happen.

Thanks Shannon

Margaret,
UGH!!!!!! Sounds like you are almost out of the woods. When you come down, where are you planning to stay? I found out yesterday that we should be expecting our BC on Tuesday and hoping to be submitted to the embassy a week from today. That will HOPEFULLY have the pink slip to us on Dec. 11 if ALL goes well. If you are staying at the Marriot, I am sure I will see you here. Hang in there. You ARE almost done.

Emily,
We plan on staying at the Marriott: my husband, myself, out ten yr. old daughter and six year old son.
I know we are resubmitted at this point so we could have an answer by tomorrow. I just have an awful feeling of another rejection. I can't imagine four of them. If so, I guess another resubmission next week. How soon were you told you would have a pink slip after submission to the embassy? 48 hrs?
I am trying to think positive. Is the Marriott full?
Margaret

Shannon,
You now have to submit the I600 before your interview. It goes in with your final package to the embassy. That is the form that has been
rejected three times for us due to claims of "photocopying".
Margaret

Margaret,
I was told 2-3 days for pink after being submitted, yet the coordinator for my program said that if we were submitted next Thursday, we could hope for pink on the following Monday which would be 48 hours. I had lunch with my program coordinator today and she confirmed the nightmare that the embassy is causing for people, acknowledging the craziness of claiming forms to be photocopied. Go figure. The hotel does not seem as full this week as it was last week. I will certainly say a prayer for you. Hopefully, I will see you next week!

I emailed our attorney in Guatemala to ask how long he thought the wait will be to get out of PGN after our resubmit following that mean ko. he said usually 20-25 (business) days but pgn is slow now since alot of the pgn lawyers are on vacation. not exactly the news I wanted to hear but he did answer me (truthfully) and I wanted to pass it along.

Today I learned I am finally out of PGN. I entered PGN on August 4, 2006 and was kicked out twice, the last time in Mid October. I was told we would travel in 4-6 weeks. She will be 8 months old. What a difficult wait this has been. Thoughts and prayers to all still waiting.

We finally recieved the call that we were out of PGN on Wednesday! I still can't believe it! We entered PGN on Sept.14, k/o on October 10, re-entered October 17, and OUT November 29. It took 6 weeks from k/o to OUT. We were told that our papers will be submitted at the Embassy on Monday. We will keep praying for all the families waiting. Best wishes.

Emily,
We were resubmitted Thursday. So, there should be an answer by Monday. Sometimes it takes a day longer to get it to the states. I believe by Tuesday we should know.
Thank you for confirming this craziness. I was wondering if it was just us.
I'll let you know what and when we hear!
Margaret

Congrats Ginger and Ann,
Wow, Ginger that is a pretty speedy timeframe of being submitted to the embassy. Your birth certificate must have come in no time at all. We got out of PGN on Thanksgiving and we are HOPING our papers will be submitted this Thursday which is two weeks post getting out. Where are you staying when you travel? I have been living at the Marriot for two weeks already and assume I will be here at least two more. Perhaps we will run into one another. Good luck to both of you!

Emily,
Who is your agency? Was the program coordinator visiting?
Margaret

Does anybody know about how long the wait is after you get your pink slip to traveling to pick up your child???

Hello all! I am so excited to post that after being in the PGN for almost 9 months our file cam out Friday approved. I was actually in Guatemala at the time and got to go to the PGN and have my file in my hands -- It was the most awesome feeling - Thanks for all the postings to keep me sane..... It truly does come to an end!

WOW....I can't believe that most all the people I have been posting with are OUT of PGN...It makes me hopeful that my wife and I will be this week.
went into pgn 9/01/06 and still waiting
3 K/o's and no real end in sight. This has to be our week.
Watching and waiting..Steven

Steven, Hang in there. I too thought that I'd never make it out of PGN. I went in August and just got out after two KO. My thoughts and prayers are with you and I hope that good news will come soon. Kristina, congratulations after a long nine months.

It took us 5 weeks from pink to travel. We were notified of our pink 10/10 and traveled 11/14. Good Luck

Hi all, ater being rejected by the U.S. Embassy because of the birth mother's tumb print had a letter A on it when she signed off on the final decree, we are now officially resubmitted to the U.S. Embassy as per my agency today. They said we should hear something late Wednesday or Thursday as to when our Embassy appointment should be. I'm sooooo excited!!!! I never thought this would come to an end. My daughter will be 11 months old 12/23. Unless we have any more delays, we should have her home for Christmas. What a wonderful Christmas it will be. Emily and Margaret, I hope to see ya'll at the Marriot hoefully next week. God bless all the babies waiting to come home!!! Moms and Dads your turn will come just keep the faith!!! Lisa B.

Lisa,
We were resubmitted yesterday for the 4th time to the embassy. Waiting to hear today or tomorrow. Hope to see you next week! Let me know when you hear something!
Margaret

Mary,
Do you mean five week from PGN to travel? Five weeks sounds so long from issuance of the pink slip until pick up.
Margaret

OK, folks.....I brought back the Guatadopt Forum mostly for those active on this thread. There is a section just for PGNers...which won't be public to everyone browsing the site but will allow you to converse easier and without delays.

Eventually, I will lock this thread as it is close to capacity on comments and I am afraid that it will become corrupted (it has to re-generate for every comment).

Please, please take advantage of the forum for PGNers. It is located on http://www.guatadopt.com/discussions

If you have any suggestions for the forum or would like to volunteer as a moderator, please let me know!

Thanks!

Kelly,
I just registered at the forum. What is involved in being a moderator? We are waiting to pick up our daughter. Our case was resubmitted for the 4th time to the Embassy yesterday.
Margaret

Hello All
We just found out today that we got out of PGN. Here is our timeline went in PGN on 9/14 k/o 10/5 back in 10/25 out today 12/5. Don't know when we will travel, but at least we are at the finish line. Everyone keep the faith. It will happen for all of you. I have everyone in my prayers

Kelly,

I would like to help with becoming a monderator. Please let me know what I can do to help.
Steven

Sorry 5 weeks from PGN to travel .. once we got notification of our embassy appointment we had 5 days to get to Guatemala.

We are as of 12/05. Embassy appointment 12/13, we leave Monday !!!!!!!
Time line in PGN 10/06/06, KO'D resubmitted 10/25/06 and OUT 12/05/06
Good luck to all who are still waiting, my thoughts are with you!!!!

Our Embassy appointment is Friday 12/15. We are leaving next Thursday 12/14. We are staying at the Radisson hotel. Last night they had 6 flights/ hotel reservations at the Mariott. This morning they had none. Therfore we have to stay at the Radisson. Anybody else staying at the Radisson from 12/14-12/19. Margaret, have you heard anything yet? We got out of PGN on 11/8. Sumitted to Embassy 12/4 for pink slip. Got the call from our coordinator 12/7. U.S. Embassy appt. is 12/15. Keep the faith everyone it will happen!!!! Lisa B.

Hey All
Can someone answer a question for me.
After you are out of PGN and your birth certificate is done, what happens after that???? I am dying to know and my agency just tells me that I just have to wait. (Wait for what???)

Also, does anyone know if down in Guatemala if they are open the whole week of Christmas or are they closed???

After PGN the steps are:
1.) Final birthmother sign issue and issuing of adoption decree
2.) New birth certificate
3.) Guatemalan passport
4.) translation of documents for embassy
5.) case goes to embassy for pink slip
6.) doctor's visit
7.) gotcha

I believe they are closed on the 24th and 25th but I could be wrong.

Kevin
Guatadopt.com

I have been in PGN since MARCH, with 2 kick outs. The adoption agency says there is "nothing we can do" and that "they all come home" when I try to discuss it. Does anyone know any way that I can advocate or ensure that everything that can be done in my situation is being done? I feel so powerless and don't believe that the agency I have paid is doing their job of ensuring that my case is moving along. I feel like they use the excuse that "this is the way it is" in the Guatemalan adoption process, so there is nothing to be done. I don't know who my attorney is and wonder how people got that information. My son turned 1 in October and he was referred to me a month after his birth! Please, any advice would be so welcome. Thank you!!

MP, so sorry to hear you have waited so long. I have been waiting for over 4months and going crazy. If I don't hear anything in one more week I will try to hire adoption supervisors. I know people in the past on this sight have used them and gotten help. If you go to the main screen and in the search box put in adoption supervisors it will give you the web sites you are looking for. Good luck! Let us know what you find out.?
Staci

OUT OF PGN!! I went in 8/22/06. . .1 KO. .back in 10/12/06. .out 1/16/07. I had my moments of despair . . .but I'm out! My daughter is 9 months old. Just waiting for pink. My prayers are with those who are waiting. There is nothing I can say to make you feel better. ..I know this.
Kristen.