For the Love of Savanna

I found out today, November 28,  that my file officially made it to the PGN. There are only a few more steps that have to take place before I can bring my munchkin home.

What's next you may ask? My  dossier (file) will be reviewd by a notary (in Guatemala a notary is an attorney) at the PGN. This could be a short process or a long process. I've heard it can take approximately 2 wks to 2 months, or longer. I am so hoping and praying it will be within 2 weeks. This phase of the adoption process really is the most difficult. I feel like Savanna and I are just days away from meeting eachother. The "realness" is everpresent along with the anxiety.

After my case is reviewed, and approved by the notary, the attorney in Guatemala will meet with Ramona, Savanna's birth mother, for the 4th and final sign off. The Adoption Decree will then be issued and Savanna will legally be my responsibility.

The next step involves changing Savanna's birth name to my last name at the civil registry. When the attorney receives the new birth certificate she can apply for a Guatemalan passport. Savanna will also have to have a physical by a US consulate approved doctor,  and get visa photos done. All paperwork will then be sent to the consulate with a request to issue a travel visa (the "Pink Slip") for the child to enter the United States. When I get the pink slip, Karen and I will travel to pick Savanna up.

Once back home, I will have to go through a readoption process which is required by the US Citizenship and Immigration Service.

Pray for a quick trip through the PGN!

Fondly,

Betsy

As of November 17 Savanna weighs 10.14 lbs, her head circumference is 14.56 inches, and she is 24 inches tall. She still drinks Similac Advace for her meals. Her health continues to be described at PERFECT!

Savanna smiles a lot, babbles and "has tantrums" (this is the direct translation of hace berrinche, which is a way of saying she is spirited.) I knew I wouldn't get away from the "parents curse". My mom laughed so hard when I told her Savanna was described as very "strong willed". Mom can't wait to see her throw fits just so she can say, "now you know what you put me through for years!" I'm glad I could provide her with so much amusement :)

Savanna likes to see people smile and continues to enjoy listening to music. She has become more interested in playing with her hands and with dolls. It sounds like she is developmentally on target.

My case hasn't officially gone to PGN yet. I'm not sure what the delay is. I am very anxious for it to enter PGN so I can bring my "tantrumy", strong willed, beautiful angel HOME.

Betsy

I received Savanna's 3 mo pictures today. Absolutely adorable!!!!! How am I going to say "no" to her when she is so cute and loveable? (See "Album")

I also have a partial picture of Savanna and her foster mom. I think she is very pretty.

I will be sending a care package to Savanna and her foster mom tomorrow.

I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait to get her.

Love,

Betsy

On 11/18/05 I received my "preapproval" email from the US Embassy in Guatemala. Glory Hallelujah!!!!!The social worker in Guatemala completed her report as well. What does this mean? My file is moving to the PGN, the FINAL stage. The gal at the adoption agency said I might get Savanna by February or March 2006. Idon't think so. (I don't think she wants me to be disappointed if it takes a long time).  I just know it will be around Christmas. It will be the happiest Christmas I've ever had. I get tears in my eyes when I think about it.

The director of the adoption agency will be taking another trip to Guatemala near the beginning of December.  I can send a care package in a 1 gallon zip lock bag with her. I've been out shopping for Savanna and her foster mom. I hope I can squeeze their gifts in such a small bag. I've learned, "if there's a will, there's a way".

Next week I should be receiving Savanna's 3 mo update and pictures. As always, I'll post them as soon as I get them.

My heart is filled with joy.

Fondly,

Betsy

Happy 3 mo birthday, Savanna.

After hanging a few pictures in Savanna's room,  it will be completely finished. I received the glider and put it together last weekend. It is very comfortable. I rocked a large stuffed rabbit (imagining it was Savanna) to get the feel of what the experience might be of rocking Savanna to sleep at night.  Really, I haven't lost my mind. I can hardly wait to get her.

I'm still waiting to get an email from the US Embassy in Guatemala stating I've been "approved". Once I get this email my entire file will progress to the PGN, where my case will enter the final review phase. Hopefully, things will move along more rapidly.

I should be getting Savanna's 3 mo pictures and medical update around Thanksgiving. That will keep me on an emotional "high" for a couple of weeks. 

 I have  decided if Savanna isn't home for Christmas, my family will celebrate Christmas when she does come home. Hopefully,  we won't be celebrating Christmas in February!

I am busy exploring the possibilites of hiring a nanny. It would really be a dream come true if I could find a nanny who loves children, speaks Spanish, is reliable and affordable. I really don't want to put Savanna in day care at such a young age especially after the many transitions she will have made. I have a couple of Hispanic friends who are helping me locate a good nanny. Keep your fingers crossed...

Savanna, I think of you so many times during the day and never forget to pray for you at night.  My eyes fill up with tears of joy when I think of what it will be like to see you and hold you for the first time. I am so ready to be your MOM. I love you so so much.  I hope you will always feel my love for you.  

 Momma Betsy