[lovemykids]

Hello all! I was wondering if anyone out there had any suggestions or knowledge for me. My husband and I are adopting a beautiful little girl. We are doing it privately and going through our own laywer. We got to bring our daughter home from the hospital, and she is now a little over a year old. We have a temporary order of custody and Power of Attorney. In November the mother put a hold on the relinquishment, but has taken no further action to stop the adoption. She has, however, requested in writing a set visitation. We agreed from the beginning this would be an open adoption, and have seen the mother 5 times the past year, and keep in touch by phone. It is, however sevaral months in between before we hear from her again. This open adoption is not legally binding, as our states do not advocate open adoptions. We are doing this because we feel it is important for our daughter to know her biological family and her heritage. My question is, how long, if there is a time period, does the birth mother have to sign the relinquishment? Can we try to push the adoption through the courts? I hope someone has some insight on this for us. We have been told by several social workers that time is in our favor and to hold on, but limbo is hard to be in. I would appreciate any reponse I receive. Thank you all!