[drmalcolm]

Hi all,
We began our adoption adventure with China after a sad experience with a rather notorious Guatemalan facilitator scared us away for the Guat program. We are currently in line to adopt from China, but have a ways to go.

I can't seem to stay away from Guatemala, though, and I've been in touch with a program coordinator about an infant girl who's available for adoption. With the state of affairs right now regarding the Hague--and keeping in mind that I'd have to do the paper-chasing to switch things over from China requirements to Guatemala requirements--do you all think it's safe, time-wise, to start the process now?

I'm a bit desperate for advice from folks who are "in the know" as to how things are running. Please be honest in your opinions, although I do understand, of course, that no one can make the decision for us.

Many thanks in advance!

[beachdreams]

If your heart is set in Guatemala, if you can accept some ups and downs and possible delays, if you are prepared to move FAST and get what you can get done as quickly as possible, if you have an excellent agency then YES I would start one now. That being said, I would not drag my feet and get moving ASAP.

BTW, I remember you from the first time around and some other adoption boards. Nice to see you back!

Amanda

[lyssie]

There must be a reason that you keep coming back to Guatemala. I have been concerned about the future of adoptions in Guatemala. We will probably be looking to adopt again in a few years. I think that things will be slower but, I think things will continue to move. I have been pleasantly surprised at how long it is taking to put the new rules into action. The grandfathering seems to be accurate...and of coarse more than anything, you have to follow your heart!

[drmalcolm]

Amanda, yes, hello--it's great to see you again, too!

Guys, thanks so much for the replies. I'm doing major research and just joined a Yahoo group where people describe their experiences with agencies. Any other suggestions of places to check for experiences with agencies? The Big List, I guess?

[Mindybeth6]

About an agency...you can put the agency in the title of your thread and then ask for feedback via PM. We are not allowed to discuss agency information publically on the forum...it must be done by PM only...but you could get a wealth of information about the agency (s) that you are looking at.

As for starting now...if you are set on it and are fully aware of the risks involved and feel that you can handle the ups and downs...then go for it. Just make sure you fully understand all the impending changes that will be happening and know that really none of use knows HOW those changes will effect in-process cases. As with any adoption, it is a HUGE leap of faith, I just think with Guatemala at this time, it is BIGGER leap of faith then usual. Good luck in your decision and I hope that you do what is best for you family!

Many Hugs

[GuatMommy2Be]

Have you thought of maybe keeping your documents for China since their wait is a few yrs, and doing a hispanic domestic placement?

I would not go with Guatemala unless I had the VERY BEST agency..

[susy...patience]

The Guatadopt warning. For example, the US govt is strongly urging no one to start -- I ignored that & took a 2nd referral but it's something you need to think long & hard about.

[KJones5]

Nope. I would NOT start an adoption now. We started last Oct and I'm starting to fear we wont' be done by the end of the year. I don't want to get caught up in new policy.

The DOS and others have issues some gloomy notices and if this was anything other than an emotional decision you probably wouldn't start with a Guatemala adoption now.