VisaJourney.com > January filers VSC lottery, who gets the jackpot next?

sj_soulm8ts

Mar 20 2008, 01:03 AM

QUOTE(Amanda+Stephen @ Mar 19 2008, 04:33 PM)

Wooooohoooo ... unexpectedly, after not really checking today ... check my email 10 minutes ago, and we had our approval. We are both sitting here a little bit stunned ... almost in disbelief.

Thanks to all of you for continuous support & friendship, this place has made the waiting a little easier

Here's hoping everyone who is still waiting gets theirs very soon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Cecile and Bryan

Mar 20 2008, 03:53 AM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 20 2008, 02:40 AM)

Well... tomorrow may be the day. The day I finally tell my parents that he's applied for a visa to move here permanently, so we can get married.

<--should be a happy face, but it's not

My parents have always been suspicious of him because of the way me met (online). Even after spending time with him during his past visits. And because it hasn't been too long after my divorce, I know they will think it's scandalous.

Here is the worse part... our original plan was to tell them together in April, after the NOA2 came through and all. But because I was passed over for that promotion in work and can't count alimony as income, now I need to ask my parents to co-sponsor him. And I need to ask them soon so they can get their I-134's done asap.

It's so sad. This is supposed to be such a happy announcement, not one full of anxiety and dread.

<-- how I feel inside
I really just want them to be happy for us, but instead I fully expect a lecture. Or worse.
But all I can do is throw it out there and hope for the best, right? Maybe (hopefully) I'll be pleasantly surprised.

And if tomorrow isn't the day, then it will definitely be on Easter.

Just wanted to tell you Good Luck

You probably already know how to tell them, but in case you have no idea how to do it, I think you should start by telling them how much you love him (you can even give them examples of what you love in him) and that it is why you have decided to apply for this visa. Then you explain how you had planned everything: he should be there around June (just an example...), then you will get married and apply for AOS, explain them what it is.
Maybe it's better to wait until they fully accept the fact that you're going to married. and then a little later (might be an hour later or a week later) tell them that there is one problem with that visa: the sponsorship. that it didn't turn out the way you and him had planned it and that it's why you hope they can help you.
Yeah I think it's better not to overload them into all this new information. just the fact that you are getting married again is going to be big news for them.

I hope everything will work out the best for you

Alex & Rachel

Mar 20 2008, 04:36 AM

Good luck, psiprez! Hopefully by announcing your engagement your parents will see that you really are truly serious and will be willing to support you.

Do you have a copy of your petition to maybe show them? I don't know if it would work for you, but I know my dad was very dubious about my marrying Alex until I showed him the petition and how much work we'd done on it. When it was presented to him in that way and he saw our letters and the filing fees he realised that I must obviously truly love Alex if I was willing to go to such lengths to be with him.

Wishing you all the best!

Saffyre

Mar 20 2008, 04:46 AM

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 09:36 AM)

Good luck, psiprez! Hopefully by announcing your engagement your parents will see that you really are truly serious and will be willing to support you.

Do you have a copy of your petition to maybe show them? I don't know if it would work for you, but I know my dad was very dubious about my marrying Alex until I showed him the petition and how much work we'd done on it. When it was presented to him in that way and he saw our letters and the filing fees he realised that I must obviously truly love Alex if I was willing to go to such lengths to be with him.

Wishing you all the best!

My mum is still pitching a hissy fit about me leaving. but my dad i cool about it - whatever makes me happy. They've both met Toby, and like him.......
I think ultimately it takes some getting used to for parents, especially when it's not the 'norm', but i'm sure it'll all work out ok

Chin up...

Rachel/Alex.....How's it going?

Alex & Rachel

Mar 20 2008, 04:58 AM

All's good, thank you

Still panicking a little bit about money, as always! I'm slowly defeating my credit card (£500 left on it, now) but after that's paid off I still need to find the money for everything else - plane ticket, train tickets to London, visa/medical costs...

I'm quite unusual in that my mother doesn't mind me leaving at all - it's my dad who minds! Although my parents have always maintained traditional roles and my mother is very motherly, she has this way of dealing with her children whereby when we're at home we're reduced to being 18 years old again, but when we're away from home she says she doesn't particularly miss us and while she's always delighted to receive the weekly or monthly phonecall she doesn't go to great lengths to maintain contact with us. I think still having a couple of children at home means she doesn't miss the older ones quite so much - I imagine that when all her children have fled the roost that she'll feel differently.

Also, although she can't fly (although she's having that checked out) and hasn't explored a great deal of the world, she finds it quite exciting when her children travel/move to different countries. Whereas my dad is a homebody at heart - after he had graduated from university he only looked for jobs in his hometown. A lot of his family are happy to live very close together and I think he's a little bit baffled as to why his children don't feel the same way.

There - I'm rambling again.

Sorry, all!

How are you doing, Saffyre? I am still keeping my fingers crossed for you! I'm hoping you receive your NoA2 any day, now!

Saffyre

Mar 20 2008, 05:10 AM

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 09:58 AM)

All's good, thank you

Still panicking a little bit about money, as always! I'm slowly defeating my credit card (£500 left on it, now) but after that's paid off I still need to find the money for everything else - plane ticket, train tickets to London, visa/medical costs...

I'm quite unusual in that my mother doesn't mind me leaving at all - it's my dad who minds! Although my parents have always maintained traditional roles and my mother is very motherly, she has this way of dealing with her children whereby when we're at home we're reduced to being 18 years old again, but when we're away from home she says she doesn't particularly miss us and while she's always delighted to receive the weekly or monthly phonecall she doesn't go to great lengths to maintain contact with us. I think still having a couple of children at home means she doesn't miss the older ones quite so much - I imagine that when all her children have fled the roost that she'll feel differently.

Also, although she can't fly (although she's having that checked out) and hasn't explored a great deal of the world, she finds it quite exciting when her children travel/move to different countries. Whereas my dad is a homebody at heart - after he had graduated from university he only looked for jobs in his hometown. A lot of his family are happy to live very close together and I think he's a little bit baffled as to why his children don't feel the same way.

There - I'm rambling again.

Sorry, all!

How are you doing, Saffyre? I am still keeping my fingers crossed for you! I'm hoping you receive your NoA2 any day, now!

The 'not being able to fly' thing is the reason my mum is so bent out of shape. She's petrified of flying and says she wont be able to come to the wedding and started talking about never seeing her grandchildren etc. I started twitching and told her she was jumping the gun just a little!

I'm doing ok - I am hoping for my NOA2 but i'm trying to accept that i'm probably just going to be one of those people who doesn't get a fast approval. It'll happen when it happens, and as much as it bugs me, there's nothing I can do about it. Except try and stay busy and avoid checking the USCIS website!

Any fun Easter plans?

Alex & Rachel

Mar 20 2008, 05:18 AM

If my mother can't fly she said she'd do her best to attend by boat/train - although I hope that doesn't happen because it'd be an awfully long journey. And I think many mothers' minds jump to 'children' when they hear talk of 'marriage' - I've tried to explain that it won't be happening for a couple of years yet!

You may not have a super-fast approval but so far you're within the average timeline for VSC - hopefully it won't be delayed beyond that! Keeping busy is a very, very good tactic though.

I'm down in London on the Saturday night for my dad's birthday - having a meal, tour and concert at the Royal Albert Hall and then sharing a hotel room with my sisters. Should be good fun!

Saffyre

Mar 20 2008, 05:30 AM

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 10:18 AM)

If my mother can't fly she said she'd do her best to attend by boat/train - although I hope that doesn't happen because it'd be an awfully long journey. And I think many mothers' minds jump to 'children' when they hear talk of 'marriage' - I've tried to explain that it won't be happening for a couple of years yet!

You may not have a super-fast approval but so far you're within the average timeline for VSC - hopefully it won't be delayed beyond that! Keeping busy is a very, very good tactic though.

I'm down in London on the Saturday night for my dad's birthday - having a meal, tour and concert at the Royal Albert Hall and then sharing a hotel room with my sisters. Should be good fun!

Yep - my 60 days will be up on April 7th, and I think that seems to be the current average. I can live with that, especially since the US Embassy in London appears to have picked up speed with their interviews!

Sounds like a fun weekend anyway - i'm just going to hang out with friends as much as possible...and maybe get a little bit of cleaning done :-P

MissYoko

Mar 20 2008, 05:30 AM

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 11:18 AM)

If my mother can't fly she said she'd do her best to attend by boat/train - although I hope that doesn't happen because it'd be an awfully long journey. And I think many mothers' minds jump to 'children' when they hear talk of 'marriage' - I've tried to explain that it won't be happening for a couple of years yet!

You may not have a super-fast approval but so far you're within the average timeline for VSC - hopefully it won't be delayed beyond that! Keeping busy is a very, very good tactic though.

I'm down in London on the Saturday night for my dad's birthday - having a meal, tour and concert at the Royal Albert Hall and then sharing a hotel room with my sisters. Should be good fun!

Good morning all

I see that everybody are preparing a nice weekend! that's great.
Please cross your fingers for me. I worry a bit about the POE saturday, i will land in JFK, it will be my first time at that POE so, it makes me more afraid.
Can't wait to be in Richard arms. 2 weeks together will help for the long k1 wait.

Kisses

Yoko

Saffyre

Mar 20 2008, 05:31 AM

QUOTE(MissYoko @ Mar 20 2008, 10:30 AM)

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 11:18 AM)

If my mother can't fly she said she'd do her best to attend by boat/train - although I hope that doesn't happen because it'd be an awfully long journey. And I think many mothers' minds jump to 'children' when they hear talk of 'marriage' - I've tried to explain that it won't be happening for a couple of years yet!

You may not have a super-fast approval but so far you're within the average timeline for VSC - hopefully it won't be delayed beyond that! Keeping busy is a very, very good tactic though.

I'm down in London on the Saturday night for my dad's birthday - having a meal, tour and concert at the Royal Albert Hall and then sharing a hotel room with my sisters. Should be good fun!

Good morning all

I see that everybody are preparing a nice weekend! that's great.
Please cross your fingers for me. I worry a bit about the POE saturday, i will land in JFK, it will be my first time at that POE so, it makes me more afraid.
Can't wait to be in Richard arms. 2 weeks together will help for the long k1 wait.

Kisses

Yoko

We'll keep fingers crossed for you, but you'll be fine! Just make sure youhave your docs with you and don't offer any information to them unnecessarily! Have Fun!

Cecile and Bryan

Mar 20 2008, 05:40 AM

Have a nice trip MissYoko! I'm sure everything will be fine

Alex & Rachel

Mar 20 2008, 05:47 AM

QUOTE(Saffyre @ Mar 20 2008, 10:31 AM)

We'll keep fingers crossed for you, but you'll be fine! Just make sure you have your docs with you and don't offer any information to them unnecessarily! Have Fun!

Yes - this is key!

Good luck, Miss Yoko. I, too, am sure you'll be fine - but I know how nerve-wracking arriving at US immigrations can be, so if you're like me you'll worry no matter what anyone says!

Oh - and have an amazing two weeks. It really will help the process!

Saffyre

Mar 20 2008, 05:54 AM

QUOTE(Alex & Rachel @ Mar 20 2008, 10:47 AM)

QUOTE(Saffyre @ Mar 20 2008, 10:31 AM)

We'll keep fingers crossed for you, but you'll be fine! Just make sure you have your docs with you and don't offer any information to them unnecessarily! Have Fun!

Yes - this is key!

Good luck, Miss Yoko. I, too, am sure you'll be fine - but I know how nerve-wracking arriving at US immigrations can be, so if you're like me you'll worry no matter what anyone says!

Oh - and have an amazing two weeks. It really will help the process!

Yeah i got myself twisted in knots and it was easy peasy!

Alex & Rachel

Mar 20 2008, 06:17 AM

I usually say I am 'visiting friends', which is true, because Alex isn't usually the only person I see - both times I have visited we've also met up with other people online even if that is not my primary purpose for visiting. Plus I am 'friends' with his parents.

They ask how I met them (online) and whether I've met them before (yes) and then I'm usually through.

psiprez

Mar 20 2008, 07:36 AM

I will definitely let my parents see all that is involved with filing for and obtaining a K-1 Visa!
*goes to put duplicate of petition in bag*

I like to think the fact that my fiance will have been checked out by Homeland Security, the US State Dept, the FBI, USCIS, the US Embassy in London and Scotland Yard will help easy my dad's fears that I'm involved with a potential internet-stalking-green-card-scamming-human-trafficking-serial-killing-pedophile.

(Not that all of those checks are meant to be a guarantee of safety. But then I could go down to the local pub nightly and pick up some complete stranger, and be in oodles more danger. That's how I put it my parents when I first let on about our relationship, and it worked then.)

And thank you for everyone for your kind support! You have no idea how much it helps.

I read a quote this morning... "Life is definitely not fair, but it's well worth doing the hard work of living."

That sums up our entire relationship. Nothing has been easy or handed to us, but our love makes it all worthwhile. This is just one more challenge to be conquered.

Martin&Nat

Mar 20 2008, 08:44 AM

QUOTE(MissYoko @ Mar 20 2008, 10:30 AM)

Good morning all

I see that everybody are preparing a nice weekend! that's great.
Please cross your fingers for me. I worry a bit about the POE saturday, i will land in JFK, it will be my first time at that POE so, it makes me more afraid.
Can't wait to be in Richard arms. 2 weeks together will help for the long k1 wait.

Kisses

Yoko

Hi

You'll be fine. I flew into JFK 2 weeks ago to visit my fiancée. I took evidence of ties to the UK just in case, but nothing was needed. When asked the purpose of my visit, I simply said 'pleasure'. I was then asked how long I would be staying, then I was waved through. No mention of fiancées, no mention of K1 visas. Easy.

Good luck, and enjoy your time together - we are all very envious!

- Martin

MissYoko

Mar 20 2008, 03:01 PM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 20 2008, 02:40 AM)

Well... tomorrow may be the day. The day I finally tell my parents that he's applied for a visa to move here permanently, so we can get married.

<--should be a happy face, but it's not

My parents have always been suspicious of him because of the way me met (online). Even after spending time with him during his past visits. And because it hasn't been too long after my divorce, I know they will think it's scandalous.

Here is the worse part... our original plan was to tell them together in April, after the NOA2 came through and all. But because I was passed over for that promotion in work and can't count alimony as income, now I need to ask my parents to co-sponsor him. And I need to ask them soon so they can get their I-134's done asap.

It's so sad. This is supposed to be such a happy announcement, not one full of anxiety and dread.

<-- how I feel inside
I really just want them to be happy for us, but instead I fully expect a lecture. Or worse.
But all I can do is throw it out there and hope for the best, right? Maybe (hopefully) I'll be pleasantly surprised.

And if tomorrow isn't the day, then it will definitely be on Easter.

hey take a breath.
You know, my parents even never met my Richard at this time. But. When i told them. We're engaged and we're on the visa process. My mother was just : oh god you will be so far. They saw on my face, they listen in my words, how i'm happy like never they see me before. They know. They know that he is the One.

So, talk to your parents with your heart and all will be ok. Sometimes i don't understand them... just 'cause they try to protect me even if i'm 38.
You will be forever there kid. Deal with that, give them what they need... its not so hard

Parents are parents, i know it i'm a mother

i have a little one yes, but i have a big one too (she's almost 20). i can imagine... right now my big one told me that she want to have a baby with her bf. wow. what can i say? Nothing, i told her that i think she is too young for that even i had her when i was 18. But. I said also, that i will agree her choice, cause i love her and... so what... maybe soon i will be a grand mother(oh my)

Please, give love to your parents and they will give you love back

Kisses

Yoko

(if you want to see a bit my big one and the kind of relation we have visit my website : http://miss-yoko.com a lot of pictures there)

Robyn-n-Kris

Mar 20 2008, 03:10 PM

QUOTE(MissYoko @ Mar 20 2008, 03:01 PM)

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 20 2008, 02:40 AM)

Well... tomorrow may be the day. The day I finally tell my parents that he's applied for a visa to move here permanently, so we can get married.

<--should be a happy face, but it's not

My parents have always been suspicious of him because of the way me met (online). Even after spending time with him during his past visits. And because it hasn't been too long after my divorce, I know they will think it's scandalous.

Here is the worse part... our original plan was to tell them together in April, after the NOA2 came through and all. But because I was passed over for that promotion in work and can't count alimony as income, now I need to ask my parents to co-sponsor him. And I need to ask them soon so they can get their I-134's done asap.

It's so sad. This is supposed to be such a happy announcement, not one full of anxiety and dread.

<-- how I feel inside
I really just want them to be happy for us, but instead I fully expect a lecture. Or worse.
But all I can do is throw it out there and hope for the best, right? Maybe (hopefully) I'll be pleasantly surprised.

And if tomorrow isn't the day, then it will definitely be on Easter.

hey take a breath.
You know, my parents even never met my Richard at this time. But. When i told them. We're engaged and we're on the visa process. My mother was just : oh god you will be so far. They saw on my face, they listen in my words, how i'm happy like never they see me before. They know. They know that he is the One.

So, talk to your parents with your heart and all will be ok. Sometimes i don't understand them... just 'cause they try to protect me even if i'm 38.
You will be forever there kid. Deal with that, give them what they need... its not so hard

Parents are parents, i know it i'm a mother

i have a little one yes, but i have a big one too (she's almost 20). i can imagine... right now my big one told me that she want to have a baby with her bf. wow. what can i say? Nothing, i told her that i think she is too young for that even i had her when i was 18. But. I said also, that i will agree her choice, cause i love her and... so what... maybe soon i will be a grand mother(oh my)

Please, give love to your parents and they will give you love back

Kisses

Yoko

(if you want to see a bit my big one and the kind of relation we have visit my website : http://miss-yoko.com a lot of pictures there)

I can undersnd your situation so so very well. I had just ended a horrible marriage and my mom begged me to take my time. Thing is.. i've known Kris for so long that she is finally understanding how happy we are. Unfortunately she does not know that he is coming over on a fiance visa. I just can't tell her that yet. But she is open to our relationship and i'm lucky enough that my pay is more than enough for the affidavit of support.

psiprez

Mar 20 2008, 09:41 PM

So........ I told my parents tonight.

And...... THEY ARE HAPPY!!

Actually I told my mom first, and she reacted with "I had a feeling this was coming! Your dad and I have already talked about what would happen!". As for my fear of her being upset, she said that was absolutely silly because all they ever want is for me to be happy.

I tried to explain that there was a small glitch because of my income (and that I need them to be co-sponsors), but before I could finish, she said "Just show me where to sign!!". We then went and sat at the table and I went over the I-134 form and tax transcript forms. She asked if I wanted HER to tell my dad. Before I could answer, she called him in and said, "Gerry's moving over here and they're getting married. Come sign this."

So yeah, if you need more proof that all went well... my mom has already offered me my grandmother's wedding ring for me to use, asked me to model my dress, and started to plan for his arrival. She's even going to start looking now for an inexpensive car for him to use, and poke around for job leads. Heck, she even hinted at more grandchildren (I don't think so!).

My dad did react with "I just wish you could get to know him more in person first, and spend more time getting to know one another." I said "ME TOO!! (duh) And if you are going to buy me the plane ticket, I'll gladly fly over there and do it." He got my point. Hehe.

I'm just so happy tonight. One more major hurdle behind us. One step closer to being happy together.

And... our returned RFE has been received at VSC and case processing has resumed.

MissYoko

Mar 21 2008, 03:22 AM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 21 2008, 03:41 AM)

So........ I told my parents tonight.

And...... THEY ARE HAPPY!!

Actually I told my mom first, and she reacted with "I had a feeling this was coming! Your dad and I have already talked about what would happen!". As for my fear of her being upset, she said that was absolutely silly because all they ever want is for me to be happy.

I tried to explain that there was a small glitch because of my income (and that I need them to be co-sponsors), but before I could finish, she said "Just show me where to sign!!". We then went and sat at the table and I went over the I-134 form and tax transcript forms. She asked if I wanted HER to tell my dad. Before I could answer, she called him in and said, "Gerry's moving over here and they're getting married. Come sign this."

So yeah, if you need more proof that all went well... my mom has already offered me my grandmother's wedding ring for me to use, asked me to model my dress, and started to plan for his arrival. She's even going to start looking now for an inexpensive car for him to use, and poke around for job leads. Heck, she even hinted at more grandchildren (I don't think so!).

My dad did react with "I just wish you could get to know him more in person first, and spend more time getting to know one another." I said "ME TOO!! (duh) And if you are going to buy me the plane ticket, I'll gladly fly over there and do it." He got my point. Hehe.

I'm just so happy tonight. One more major hurdle behind us. One step closer to being happy together.

And... our returned RFE has been received at VSC and case processing has resumed.

Very very very good news!!!

You see, our parents loves us

Saffyre

Mar 21 2008, 03:36 AM

That's excellent news!! I'm really happy for you and I hope you're approved soon!

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 21 2008, 06:21 AM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 20 2008, 10:41 PM)

So........ I told my parents tonight.

And...... THEY ARE HAPPY!!

Actually I told my mom first, and she reacted with "I had a feeling this was coming! Your dad and I have already talked about what would happen!". As for my fear of her being upset, she said that was absolutely silly because all they ever want is for me to be happy.

I tried to explain that there was a small glitch because of my income (and that I need them to be co-sponsors), but before I could finish, she said "Just show me where to sign!!". We then went and sat at the table and I went over the I-134 form and tax transcript forms. She asked if I wanted HER to tell my dad. Before I could answer, she called him in and said, "Gerry's moving over here and they're getting married. Come sign this."

So yeah, if you need more proof that all went well... my mom has already offered me my grandmother's wedding ring for me to use, asked me to model my dress, and started to plan for his arrival. She's even going to start looking now for an inexpensive car for him to use, and poke around for job leads. Heck, she even hinted at more grandchildren (I don't think so!).

My dad did react with "I just wish you could get to know him more in person first, and spend more time getting to know one another." I said "ME TOO!! (duh) And if you are going to buy me the plane ticket, I'll gladly fly over there and do it." He got my point. Hehe.

I'm just so happy tonight. One more major hurdle behind us. One step closer to being happy together.

And... our returned RFE has been received at VSC and case processing has resumed.

That is such great news!!! I know what a relief that is!!!

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 21 2008, 12:10 PM

Boards are quiet today....

Amanda+Stephen

Mar 21 2008, 12:27 PM

QUOTE(greeneyedgirlfl @ Mar 21 2008, 12:10 PM)

Boards are quiet today....

Went from a quiet week at work, to an obnoxious end of day Thursday and a very busy Friday at work for me. I'm looking forward to a 3 day weekend here ...

Counting down the days for your trip Dawn ... I know you've got to be super excited!!!!!

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 21 2008, 12:30 PM

QUOTE(Amanda+Stephen @ Mar 21 2008, 01:27 PM)

QUOTE(greeneyedgirlfl @ Mar 21 2008, 12:10 PM)

Boards are quiet today....

Went from a quiet week at work, to an obnoxious end of day Thursday and a very busy Friday at work for me. I'm looking forward to a 3 day weekend here ...

Counting down the days for your trip Dawn ... I know you've got to be super excited!!!!!

I can hardly contain myself!!! I'm supposed to be working on my National Board portfolio today (Due on WED!!!), but I can't seem to pull myself away from VJ...I'm also starting to pack and clean the house at the same time (since my mom is comeing over to feed my cats while I'm away)....

Amanda+Stephen

Mar 21 2008, 12:31 PM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 20 2008, 09:41 PM)

So........ I told my parents tonight.

And...... THEY ARE HAPPY!!

Actually I told my mom first, and she reacted with "I had a feeling this was coming! Your dad and I have already talked about what would happen!". As for my fear of her being upset, she said that was absolutely silly because all they ever want is for me to be happy.

I tried to explain that there was a small glitch because of my income (and that I need them to be co-sponsors), but before I could finish, she said "Just show me where to sign!!". We then went and sat at the table and I went over the I-134 form and tax transcript forms. She asked if I wanted HER to tell my dad. Before I could answer, she called him in and said, "Gerry's moving over here and they're getting married. Come sign this."

So yeah, if you need more proof that all went well... my mom has already offered me my grandmother's wedding ring for me to use, asked me to model my dress, and started to plan for his arrival. She's even going to start looking now for an inexpensive car for him to use, and poke around for job leads. Heck, she even hinted at more grandchildren (I don't think so!).

My dad did react with "I just wish you could get to know him more in person first, and spend more time getting to know one another." I said "ME TOO!! (duh) And if you are going to buy me the plane ticket, I'll gladly fly over there and do it." He got my point. Hehe.

I'm just so happy tonight. One more major hurdle behind us. One step closer to being happy together.

And... our returned RFE has been received at VSC and case processing has resumed.

I'm so glad it worked out well for you ... I'm sure you feel a weight off your shoulders now. I was a little concerned about telling my parents six months ago, they had not met Stephen in person back then. They took it better than I expected -- my older brother gave me the 20 question, my parents just were happy. They met him a few weeks later and they love him! They can't wait for him to be in the US permanently.

Sometimes parents are just afraid to let go, and more afraid of their children being hurt. Again, I'm so glad they are being supportive for you!

Amanda+Stephen

Mar 21 2008, 12:34 PM

QUOTE(greeneyedgirlfl @ Mar 21 2008, 12:30 PM)

I can hardly contain myself!!! I'm supposed to be working on my National Board portfolio today (Due on WED!!!), but I can't seem to pull myself away from VJ...I'm also starting to pack and clean the house at the same time (since my mom is comeing over to feed my cats while I'm away)....

I know the feeling quite well. I'm just happy to be where he is, regardless of where, it just always feels like I'm at home

(even in a country where I don't speak the language!!)

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 21 2008, 11:57 PM

QUOTE(Amanda+Stephen @ Mar 21 2008, 01:34 PM)

QUOTE(greeneyedgirlfl @ Mar 21 2008, 12:30 PM)

I can hardly contain myself!!! I'm supposed to be working on my National Board portfolio today (Due on WED!!!), but I can't seem to pull myself away from VJ...I'm also starting to pack and clean the house at the same time (since my mom is comeing over to feed my cats while I'm away)....

I know the feeling quite well. I'm just happy to be where he is, regardless of where, it just always feels like I'm at home

(even in a country where I don't speak the language!!)

I don't care where I am...if he's there with me!!! I only speak English and broken German (used to speak it fluently, but, unless you work at Disney, you don't really need it in FL...Spanish, that's another thing altogether!!!)...

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 22 2008, 02:13 PM

Tumbleweeds....I see one go by....where is everybody?

psiprez

Mar 22 2008, 04:41 PM

Found out we were touched again yesterday... I had stopped checking daily. LOL.

Also found out that despite how crappy work has been going, I was named the Top Performer (think Employee of the Month) for February!! That's out of 250 employees in our Target. I received a nice congrats card in the mail from the store manager, and I get my name engraved on a big brass plaque where everyone can see it. I also get a plaque to take home.

I wonder how they knew I felt like quitting when I woke up this morning? I guess I'll stick it out a little bit longer. Hehe.

Sal and Jay

Mar 22 2008, 05:21 PM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 22 2008, 09:41 PM)

Found out we were touched again yesterday... I had stopped checking daily. LOL.

Also found out that despite how crappy work has been going, I was named the Top Performer (think Employee of the Month) for February!! That's out of 250 employees in our Target. I received a nice congrats card in the mail from the store manager, and I get my name engraved on a big brass plaque where everyone can see it. I also get a plaque to take home.

I wonder how they knew I felt like quitting when I woke up this morning? I guess I'll stick it out a little bit longer. Hehe.

Well done!

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 22 2008, 10:24 PM

Wanted to get a jump on everybody...

HAPPY EASTER!!!

KitEEgirl

Mar 23 2008, 12:58 AM

Happy Easter Everyone!

I hope the Easter Bunny brings lots of goodies tonight....NOA2's and interviews preferably...

Grandoner

Mar 23 2008, 07:38 AM

enjoy the holiday.. religiously or culturally.. resurrection or chocolate bunnies...

Hope this is another active approval Sunday for everyone

Saffyre

Mar 23 2008, 09:48 AM

QUOTE(Grandoner @ Mar 23 2008, 12:38 PM)

enjoy the holiday.. religiously or culturally.. resurrection or chocolate bunnies...

Hope this is another active approval Sunday for everyone

Nice thought but I doubt there'll be anyone working at USCIS on Easter Sunday. Isn't it a religious holiday in the US too?

Liam and Sam

Mar 23 2008, 09:54 AM

QUOTE(Saffyre @ Mar 23 2008, 08:48 AM)

QUOTE(Grandoner @ Mar 23 2008, 12:38 PM)

enjoy the holiday.. religiously or culturally.. resurrection or chocolate bunnies...

Hope this is another active approval Sunday for everyone

Nice thought but I doubt there'll be anyone working at USCIS on Easter Sunday. Isn't it a religious holiday in the US too?

Yes. I highly doubt they'll be working on a holiday (this is the government we're talking about - they have more holidays than average citizens). I've noticed that many February filers are being walked through to their NOA2 within a matter of days (should be soon Saffyre) - I just hope they don't forget about the January's still on their desk!!

Saffyre

Mar 23 2008, 10:02 AM

QUOTE(Liam and Sam @ Mar 23 2008, 02:54 PM)

QUOTE(Saffyre @ Mar 23 2008, 08:48 AM)

QUOTE(Grandoner @ Mar 23 2008, 12:38 PM)

enjoy the holiday.. religiously or culturally.. resurrection or chocolate bunnies...

Hope this is another active approval Sunday for everyone

Nice thought but I doubt there'll be anyone working at USCIS on Easter Sunday. Isn't it a religious holiday in the US too?

Yes. I highly doubt they'll be working on a holiday (this is the government we're talking about - they have more holidays than average citizens). I've noticed that many February filers are being walked through to their NOA2 within a matter of days (should be soon Saffyre) - I just hope they don't forget about the January's still on their desk!!

Well I know they don't get Good Friday or Easter Monday off, someone sent me a government website link....but I wonder if they'd close on Sunday since Sunday would surely be overtime anyway....

I hope mine comes soon, and yours too Sam. I'd love to get some of my sanity back and stop living in limbo..

Grandoner

Mar 23 2008, 10:31 AM

Perhaps they are definately closed today... i just know from the last few weeks on Sundays seemed to be a big day for approvals... and touches

Saffyre

Mar 23 2008, 10:33 AM

QUOTE(Grandoner @ Mar 23 2008, 03:31 PM)

Perhaps they are definately closed today... i just know from the last few weeks on Sundays seemed to be a big day for approvals... and touches

Oh trust me, I agree and i'm hoping too.....but I just don't want to build up my hopes and then have them shot to pieces...

psiprez

Mar 23 2008, 11:58 AM

HAPPY EASTER!!

And the bunny brought us a touch this morning!!

It came through between 9 and 11am. And our 3/21 touch came through after 5pm. Strange, huh?
Maybe they took our case home to work on over the long weekend.

greeneyedgirlfl

Mar 23 2008, 12:45 PM

I'm praying for good news for both of you!!!

Sal and Jay

Mar 23 2008, 12:57 PM

QUOTE(psiprez @ Mar 23 2008, 04:58 PM)

HAPPY EASTER!!

And the bunny brought us a touch this morning!!

It came through between 9 and 11am. And our 3/21 touch came through after 5pm. Strange, huh?
Maybe they took our case home to work on over the long weekend.

WOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOO its on its way hon

Alhan and Delaram

Mar 23 2008, 02:08 PM

Happy Easter Everyone

dbears

Mar 23 2008, 09:49 PM

psiprez: things seems to be getting into the right place for you, family and career wise. I am really happy for you.... if only VSC would send in your NOA2 now, things will be even better for you, I'm really hoping they do it soon.

I hope and pray that this will be a good week for everybody.

SusieLuvsPaul

Mar 23 2008, 11:31 PM

happy easter you guys!!

Liam and Sam

Mar 24 2008, 09:12 AM

Anything for anyone?? Maybe even a touch??

It's getting harder and harder to wait quietly - I went out and looked up couples who filed with VSC this past winter (December and earlier) and a large handful are still waiting for their I29 to be approved (of course some of them might not update their timeline)... I don't want to be in that boat... I envy the people that have waited for months without even calling USCIS to see what's going on. I think the February approvals are going to my head. Haha.

Saffyre

Mar 24 2008, 09:25 AM

QUOTE(Liam and Sam @ Mar 24 2008, 02:12 PM)

Anything for anyone?? Maybe even a touch??

It's getting harder and harder to wait quietly - I went out and looked up couples who filed with VSC this past winter (December and earlier) and a large handful are still waiting for their I29 to be approved (of course some of them might not update their timeline)... I don't want to be in that boat... I envy the people that have waited for months without even calling USCIS to see what's going on. I think the February approvals are going to my head. Haha.

Honestly I think most of the ones who are 'straggling' behind are dormant on VJ now, although I know there are a couple still waiting, Someone posted a stats list yesterday, I read it somewhere.

As for the Jan/Feb approvals - I think they are about standard with their processing time now. Up to 60 days seems about right..

sj_soulm8ts

Mar 24 2008, 11:58 AM

Hello everyone! Hope you all had a "hoppy" easter! We just called the USE and got our interview date set for May 23rd. Happy but getting nervous already...( bites my nails )

Amanda+Stephen

Mar 24 2008, 01:26 PM

QUOTE(sj_soulm8ts @ Mar 24 2008, 11:58 AM)

Hello everyone! Hope you all had a "hoppy" easter! We just called the USE and got our interview date set for May 23rd. Happy but getting nervous already...( bites my nails )

Things are moving along ... congrats!!! We called the NVC today, got the new case # and were told it would be sent off to Frankfurt tomorrow ....

Hopefully all of the remaining parts of our journeys to be together go smoothly!!!

Sal and Jay

Mar 24 2008, 01:28 PM

QUOTE(Amanda+Stephen @ Mar 24 2008, 06:26 PM)

QUOTE(sj_soulm8ts @ Mar 24 2008, 11:58 AM)

Hello everyone! Hope you all had a "hoppy" easter! We just called the USE and got our interview date set for May 23rd. Happy but getting nervous already...( bites my nails )

Things are moving along ... congrats!!! We called the NVC today, got the new case # and were told it would be sent off to Frankfurt tomorrow ....

Hopefully all of the remaining parts of our journeys to be together go smoothly!!!

Thats great Amanda, ours is on its way to London too!!!!!!!