ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Is the embassy closed today because of the Presidents day holiday? If they are does anyone think they will still be proccessing visas today? I really want to see Luz's visa before I go home this sunday. (Feb 25) I don't want to buy her ticket until I have visa in hand but I also don't want to wait until I get home because I think it will be cheaper to buy it here. Kind of a catch 22.



Hi Gary,

Yes, the embassy is closed because it is a US holiday. Where also hoping to hear something from Delbros tomorrow - that it is at least in route. :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-19 02:28:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

A quick update from Oakwell in Manila. Mira and I just went over our docs for the 3rd time to make sure we had everything. Tomorrow is her interview and we would welcome your prayers for a successful conclusion. Congrats to everbody last week and good luck to Mike n Jennie and 2 hearts tomorrow. Maybe we will se each other in the line at the embassy.



I wish you the best, brother! You'll do fine! :star: Just be confident and be yourselves! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-19 10:24:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Quote: Yes, the embassy is closed because it is a US holiday. Where also hoping to hear something from Delbros tomorrow - that it is at least in route.

Our experience recently with Delbros was good. When the Delbros site updated to show that the VISA was released to Delbros from the Embassy, it was delivered the next day in Cagayan De Oro. I don't think the site updates are accurate on Delbros, so if it shows the Visa has been released, you can expect it more quickly than you would assume.



Wow! That is fast! For those who are unsure about the efficiency or reliability of Delbros - I'd recommend that you really look at the actual days the Visas are in transit. What has delayed some people in getting their Visas was not Delbros but because the Embassy had not yet released them.
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-19 10:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

PW there is no way I believe you are [##]! I was looking at all the pics and was guessing you are 27 or 28. :yes:

Me too... I can't believe that you are ## years old. You look great and I'm sure that your fiance is a very proud, happy, and libog na libog man! (hehehehe) - Cheers!!!


aawwww... you make me blush :blush: :blush:

A positive attitude in life, good sense of humor, counting our blessings, enjoying every minute of our life with our loved ones and friends, avoiding the sun, and cleansing and applying moisturizers daily help in delaying signs of maturity. And yes, :secret: sexercise works wonders too :wub:

I think this thread needs to be upgraded from GP to PG18. :lol:


Amen, sister! :yes: :P




Someone just told me, "Rob, you are a great age for the shape you're in." Wasn't that nice of them?? :no:



:lol: A good sense of humor with an ability to laugh at ourselves is key to being ageless! :thumbs:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-19 19:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Mira is APPROVED. YEAH. We were not prepared for the number of people waiting to get into the Embassy. I thought we would be there all day. I was impressed by the way they moved applicants from one section to another and I was surpised that we were finished at 11:10am. Hope Mike n Jennie and 2hearts have the same news. Post more on the interview later when we climb down off cloud9. hehehe. :dancing: :dancing: :dance: :dance: :thumbs:



Congratulations! Whoohooo! :star: :star: :star: :star: :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 01:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
I apologize if this has been asked before but does it matter if Jinky answered on her forms that her POE would be LAX if in fact her plane does a stop over in a US Territory such as Hawaii?

Anyone? :unsure:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 02:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Nope, doesn't matter if her actual POE is different from what she wrote in the forms.



Thank you, PW! :thumbs:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 03:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I know this has been covered before but I have no idea what page it might be on. Sheryl will go for her CFO seminar on March 5 and then medical after that. For the CFO counseling she will go to PRISM or SMECOW. Correct? And then once she has visa she will go to CFO building with her certificate to get the CFO sticker on her visa?



Yes. Jinky attended the seminar in Cebu - her home province and as soon as she receives her visa she'll go back to get the sticker.
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 14:41:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi my sweety is at St. Lukes!

We would appreciate your prayers today as Lorna goes through the physical process.
We are concerned about her small cough that has been lingering. Doctor says its allergies and we are sure its not TB, but you never know what might happen at Physical (Right Rob?)

I can't wait for this part to be over :-)

Thanks and congrats to everone that got approved.

Also love those pics at the get together! You are all soooo beautiful!!
Mike



Best wishes to your fiancee! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 16:36:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

:) hi guys hihihi... congratulations to all who got their approvals, wishing everyone else good luck. my prayers are with you guys.

just thought id drop by and say something. i keep reading this forum (chismosa kasi) just to see how everyone is doing. :)

ulweeeeeeeeeeeh... im having butterflies in my tummy... (no im not preggy yet) AOS interview is in the next two days...

(huuuuuuugsssssssssss) to all


Good luck with AOS interview! :star: Is it really that stressful?
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-20 18:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hey guys, just got done with my interview. APPROVED AT LAST!!!!



Congratulations, Karen! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 02:39:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
PW (Cora) please update - Jinky received her visa from Delbros today (Wednesday, Feb. 21st)! :star:


For those who have upcoming interviews - it is my opinion that you should have full confidence that the courier they use, Delbros, will deliver the visa in a timely manner. There have been some who've experienced delays, but from what I have seen in this thread, those delays were with the embassy and not with Delbros. Requesting to pick up the visa in person is not necessary unless you absolutely cannot have it delivered to you.

Jinky was able to sign up to receive text messages on her cell phone from Delbros. The first text she received on Friday afternoon, the day of her interview. Then the second was yesterday (day after holiday) that her visa was in transit and she can expect to receive it with the next 1 to 2 days - and she is in Cebu. Very efficient! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 02:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

PW (Cora) please update - Jinky received her visa from Delbros today (Wednesday, Feb. 21st)! :star:
:star:


Congrats Steven and Jinky... hope to received mine tom.



I'm sure it will be soon! :star: Do you have your plane ticket already?


PW (Cora),

Hope you will feel better soon from migraine. :( Maybe from too much talking and not enough sexercise. :P



Hello Everyone! My fiancee had just finished with her medical check at St. Luke's, Manila. Flawless Results! It was over quick, although too quick that she unfortunately had hematomas on her arm coz of all the hasty needles poking at her and maybe a little unwell coz of the vaccinations. :ranting: I just had to buy her a round trip ticket to fly back home to the province before her big interview. But she's recovering.. :thumbs: Her interview at the Manila Consulate is comin up this Monday, the 26th. Wish us luck! :clock:



Best wishes and Good Luck! :star: Hope she'll feel better soon! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 03:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

PW (Cora) please update - Jinky received her visa from Delbros today (Wednesday, Feb. 21st)! :star:


For those who have upcoming interviews - it is my opinion that you should have full confidence that the courier they use, Delbros, will deliver the visa in a timely manner. There have been some who've experienced delays, but from what I have seen in this thread, those delays were with the embassy and not with Delbros. Requesting to pick up the visa in person is not necessary unless you absolutely cannot have it delivered to you.

Jinky was able to sign up to receive text messages on her cell phone from Delbros. The first text she received on Friday afternoon, the day of her interview. Then the second was yesterday (day after holiday) that her visa was in transit and she can expect to receive it with the next 1 to 2 days - and she is in Cebu. Very efficient! :star:



Congrats on the visa delivery!!

I'm not worried about it actually getting delivered. However Sheryl lives in the provinces on Mindanao in a small town. It looks like delivery to CDO which is a large city that is a fairly long drive from her is 7 to 8 days from what I have seen. So for her location I would expect 10 days. I will be there for her interview and we want to fly back together of course if possible. So going back to her town and possibly waiting 10 days is not an option. We will stay in Manila after the interview and I will ask to pick up the Visa for that reason. I hope they will allow us to do that. Otherwise I guess we will have to have it delivered to our hotel. But I really worry about that. Will the people at the desk mistakenly send Delbros away??? Will Delbros come knock on our room?? Anybody have any experience with that??



Hi Dean,

That makes sense. I think you're right about delivering it to your hotel - that shouldn't be problem - Sheryl can ask at the embassy what they recommend under your circumstances. It's my observation that so far those that have asked to pick up the visa in person have had to go through extra hassle to get permission and even then it seems to be 2-3 days.

Best wishes with the upcoming interview!
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 13:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

hi all ! Philip received his visa at marikina city , rizal,yesterday .....................................................just an update (interview feb 8th)



Wow, that took some time! What was the date that Delbros actually received the visa from the embassy?
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 16:51:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

PW (Cora),
Hope you will feel better soon from migraine. :( Maybe from too much talking and not enough sexercise. :P

Thanks Steven (and Rebel too). I feel much, much better today.

And yes, not enough sexercise contributes to tension headaches :yes: . And so I called my sex therapist and he is arriving on March 2 and so I’m off to some serious “treatment” for two weeks in undisclosed exotic “clinics”. :devil:

Any volunteers in maintaining/updating our list while I’m gone? I will be incommunicado starting March 2 and will be back on March 19. Any one please, pretty please? :unsure:



Coincidentally, my therapist will be arriving here on March 2 and I can already feel the migraines about to blossom. Serious treatment for sure! :yes:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-21 21:26:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Just a quick question. My sweety has her Interview on April 11th and we are so excited. Does anyone here have an idea when Delbro will deliver her VISA. I would like to start shopping for airfare for her. I have been a member here many months. I sent the I-129F in May of last year. It will be an 11 month process. I am so thankful for VJ. It has really been great support. I am sure she will pass her interview, we are more than ready. I just sent the I-134 to her 2 days ago FEDEX.

If possible, knowing her interview is April 11th. When is it safe to get her ticket and can I buy one online....E-Ticket, how should I buy the ticket?


Thanks and hugs to you all, and congrats to all the approved VISA's

:dance:


Hi Dave,

We figured to book a flight about 2 weeks after interview to allow time for delivery of visa, but we waited until after interview to reserve the tickets. We found the cheapest tickets with my fiancee buying the 2 tickets (her's and her son's) through a local travel agent ($992 for 2, One-way, Cathay Pacific - Cebu to Hong Kong to LAX). The agent quoted her the price and gave us this Friday to pay for them (departing March 2 - one week later). Delbros only took about 2 days to deliver the visa in our case, but the times do vary (see Patiently Waiting's list). Also, the Embassy may not release the visa for delivery right away - possible further review.

Everybody finds their own way on these things, but in our case it's been good to have 2 weeks for Jinky to say her goodbyes to all her friends and family as well as prepare for the big change.

Best wishes on the upcoming interview! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-22 13:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Well I just bought Luz and Robins tickets. They will arrive in the USA April 6 at 5PM!!!! WOOT! Next week they will do their CFO and get extra copies of BC and annullment papers. Only ~45 days to go!!!! YEAH!!!



Whoohooo! Almost there, Gary! :star: :thumbs: :yes:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-22 13:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi Dave,

We figured to book a flight about 2 weeks after interview to allow time for delivery of visa, but we waited until after interview to reserve the tickets. We found the cheapest tickets with my fiancee buying the 2 tickets (her's and her son's) through a local travel agent ($992 for 2, One-way, Cathay Pacific - Cebu to Hong Kong to LAX). The agent quoted her the price and gave us this Friday to pay for them (departing March 2 - one week later). Delbros only took about 2 days to deliver the visa in our case, but the times do vary (see Patiently Waiting's list). Also, the Embassy may not release the visa for delivery right away - possible further review.

Everybody finds their own way on these things, but in our case it's been good to have 2 weeks for Jinky to say her goodbyes to all her friends and family as well as prepare for the big change.

Best wishes on the upcoming interview! :star:

Try Northwest Steve. I got Luz and Robins tickets for $910 going all the way to Peoria. It may be cheaper to try them.
PS. I like your signature pic!


It's too late, but thanks for the tip. That is a great price though! Does it include all the taxes? When I called Cathay Pacific directly, the cheapest price they could offer was $1,600 just for Jinky's ticket! The rep explained the ticket prices would be cheaper when bought in the Philippines.

Who is that handsome devil surrounded by gorgeous women? Lucky devil. :devil:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-22 18:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi all,

A little update on our visas.....I called the embassy and spoke with Sandy...i never seem to get loraine when i call anymore. She told me the pictures and passports finally made it out of the mail room and to a case workers desk feb 21 ( which ironicly is exactly 2 years ago Jasmin and I met). I asked when would be a good date to call back to check for update and she told me 2 weeks!!!!! I know I wont wait 2 weeks to call....i'll be calling by wed next week!! For gods sake all they need to do is look at the pics and process the visas already!!! I know...patience.

Congrats to all those who have thier visas and those on the way.....i don't wish this AR on anyone.

Jazzy



I remember reading your situation before, but what exactly was their reasoning for wanting to see pics of your stepdaughter and did they request pics of her from when she was a baby? Did your fiancee not bring any pics of her daughter to the interview? Sorry, I don't mean to rub your nose in it - but hopefully others here can learn from this and not get stuck in AR.

Edited by Steven_and_Jinky, 22 February 2007 - 06:57 PM.

one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-22 18:56:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Ouch, Fely now says they won't give her a new passport or change her name until she attends the CFO. So there's another wasted trip, 4 out of 4. I need to see what docs I need to send to her first. She's pretty much on her own here, doesn't really use the internet to find out about how to do things. This is suddenly so frustrating.




That's got be frutstrating. Hang in there!
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-22 20:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

My flight is tonight at 10pm ,PAL ,non stop flight to LAX... ill see u tonight mari :) at the airport.

Good luck to all of US and GOD bless us always!

fel



Best wishes on your flight tonight, Fel! Give my regards to Mari as well! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-23 03:18:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Just a little update while we wait for our flight from HNL to LAX (flight 4 of 5 today):
We entered the US today in Guam. It took a about 10 minutes.

Oh, and if anyone is still asking about the xrays, don't bring your xrays to Immigration. They only want the passport and SEALED envelope. We put Florenda's xrays in the suitcase with her wedding dress. :)



Thanks for the heads up, Gary, and good luck on your last leg of the journey! :star: Jinky's POE will be LAX this coming Friday so I'll let you know just how long she had to wait to go through immigration.

Hello guys! I am leaving tomorrow morning for America. I got Luz and Robins tickets the other day. They will arrive in the US on April 6! Next week they do the CFO and get copies of all their docs. Everything is ready now!!! Good luck to everyone with interviews coming up!



Welcome back, Gary! :star: Hope you're completely recovered from your illness. May the next 5 weeks go by fast for you! :yes:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-24 09:56:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

And I have questions for those who got an annulment and was approved. Did you use your maiden name? or your former married name? Did you get your NBI clearance in your maiden name? married name?

I am using my maiden name now, and have my NBI clearance with my maiden name. However, since I used my former married name for 17 years of my adult life, logic tells me the embassy "might" ask for a clearance with the former married name. How did you do it? Can I even get 2 NBI clearances?

Thanks again guys.

Gen


Hi Gen,

Those are questions worth asking the embassy by calling them up and they should be able to give you a definitive answer. I would also recommend going to the NBI offices with the same question. If it is like it is in the states, a person's file is kept together with notations of any aliases or other names used - but those name variations would be indicated on the file itself.

As far as using your maiden name - here in the states, a woman has to actually go through and legally change her last name back to her maiden name.

Sorry if I didn't really answer your questions but hopefully you can get some reliable answers from the embassy and NBI. :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-24 10:03:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Question for the Manila Listers...is anyone other than me having constant problems with the Cebu Pacfic and Philippine Air online reservation website? Over the past 2 weeks I cannot get the transaction to complete no matter what I do. I've tried different cards, tried different days and times and also calling the agents (Cebu Pacific, who tell me to try online again, which doesn't work) and I've made certain that the Mastercard Secure Code and Verified by Visa registration is correct, to absolutely no avail. I've called my credit card issuers and all is okay. As a last resort my wife last week had to send someone direct to the airport across Leyte to book the trip for her medical. This is absurd. I've tried contacting a travel agent in Manila, but they want funds deposited in a bank account before they will issue the e-ticket. My wife and her wise traveling companion didn't trust that setup. Looks like I may need to have her ramble across the island again. Thanks for any suggestions.

Mike


Hi Mike,

Did you get that message window on PAL's website that says you have to register your CC with some international registry before you can use it? (I don't if that's the problem, but worth checking). As an alternative method, I'd recommend sending her cash through Xoom.com where she can pick it up at any PCI Equitable Bank. The charges are a lot less than Western Union.
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-25 02:10:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hello Everyone, I find myself here with nobody to talk to about this and hope that some of you possibly will be able to shed some insight into this serious issue for me. My wife has been here now in the USA for 18 days. I have tried to be the best husband that I can possibly be. I take her places, out to dinner and even cook gourmet dinners for us. I am an indepenent broker and my office is in my home. My day's are somewhat busy and sometimes hectic from 8:00am to about 7:00pm Monday through Friday. Since my wife arrived here, I have made a point to take a few hours away from my work. My wife seemed to be sad and unhappy over the last few days. She is not the type of person to say what is bothering her or complain. I finally got her to tell me what is bothering her. It seems that she is feeking lonely and scared. She has made numerous comments that our neighborhood is very quiet and she rarely sees anyone outside. She relys on me for transportation, as she has not taken her driving exam yet. I live in a community next to the ocean, so its about a two or 3 mile drive for shopping, dining, etc. The biggest problem she describes to me is she is scared here. She isn't sleeping at night. She says it is because she is scared, as she hears noises above the master bedroom of which is upstairs. She thinks it is a spirit or a ghost walking around up there! I am serious, she thinks this. I hear things also and I have explained to her that it is the rustling of the very tall Palm trees outside our house. It is always windy or breezy here, as our house is a stones throw from the Atlantic Ocean. My wife is a smart person and well educated, so that isn't an issue. I respect her culture and beliefs and know that this fear is real to her.

This is serious and to the point that she wants to return to the Philippines. She is lonely and scared and I just don't know what to do. All of you have become like an internet family to me, so I am hoping that possibly some of you can share experiences or shed some insight into this issue for me. I am very frustrated, as I don't know what else to say or do. You can send me a private message if you prefer. Thanks, Glenn


Hi Glenn,

I think that it happens to everyone to more or less a degree. Did you both talk about how your daily lives would be together? During the period apart, how much time did you spend on the phone or chatting online? My fiancee will be here this coming Friday and I'm currently waiting tables at night (3 days a week) in addition to my full time job - so I'm concerned about how the transition will be for her, but we talk about it all the time. Keep in mind, she's left EVERYTHING behind her, she's not only in a strange neighborhood but a strange country as well. If she can't drive right away, show her the public transportation system so that she has a way to get out of that house that will quickly feel like a prison to her if it doesn't already.

Expectations are so important. I would sit down and have a heart to heart talk. Make some immediate goals that will help her to feel comfortable (introducing her to some of the neighbors, introduce her to your friends, get involved with your church, find a network of Filipino Americans nearby that she can communicate with). Then I'd talk about long term goals (getting her driver's license, signing up for classes at a local college, etc.). Whatever the main plan was that you both had imagined, in terms of your lives together - that has to be ironed out where both of you have a good idea of what to expect.

Just try to put yourself in her place and imagine what you would need to do to keep your sanity. Going back home is NOT the solution and both of you need to believe that. The transition is going to be painful and there's no way to get around it, but tell yourselves that it is temporary. Eventually you will both form a life together that feels comfortable.

Don't despair. Best wishes! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-25 15:41:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview



Hi Glenn,

I think that it happens to everyone to more or less a degree. Did you both talk about how your daily lives would be together? During the period apart, how much time did you spend on the phone or chatting online? My fiancee will be here this coming Friday and I'm currently waiting tables at night (3 days a week) in addition to my full time job - so I'm concerned about how the transition will be for her, but we talk about it all the time. Keep in mind, she's left EVERYTHING behind her, she's not only in a strange neighborhood but a strange country as well. If she can't drive right away, show her the public transportation system so that she has a way to get out of that house that will quickly feel like a prison to her if it doesn't already.

Expectations are so important. I would sit down and have a heart to heart talk. Make some immediate goals that will help her to feel comfortable (introducing her to some of the neighbors, introduce her to your friends, get involved with your church, find a network of Filipino Americans nearby that she can communicate with). Then I'd talk about long term goals (getting her driver's license, signing up for classes at a local college, etc.). Whatever the main plan was that you both had imagined, in terms of your lives together - that has to be ironed out where both of you have a good idea of what to expect.

Just try to put yourself in her place and imagine what you would need to do to keep your sanity. Going back home is NOT the solution and both of you need to believe that. The transition is going to be painful and there's no way to get around it, but tell yourselves that it is temporary. Eventually you will both form a life together that feels comfortable.

Don't despair. Best wishes! :star:


We have been married since December 2005. I visited her twice for 6 weeks prior to our marriage and I met her in Manila 3 times for 2 to 4 weeks during 2006. We chatted or talked on the phone everyday since the first time we met. I let her know before we married that my business life was not only a busy one, but very hectic most of the time. I think she is somewhat surprised at the way I do business, as there is a lot of emotion at times. But, that is just the nature of my business.

I wish desperatley that I knew Filipinos here. I know there are many here, but haven't a clue on how she can meet them? I appreciate your concern and feedback.



Check with some of the 'old-timers' here on VJ (Trevor, Jasman) - there are websites for Filipino's throughout America to connect. I'm sure there's got to be some Filipino's not too far away, but even if they are in another state, at least she'll have some familiarity just a phone call away - people who've gone through the process already and can lend a sympathetic ear. What was your social life like before she came here? What was her social life like? What I've learned from my fiancee is that Filipino's are very sociallable - they celebrate birthdays and weddings like nobody else. My hunch is that she's going to need that here as well - at least to some degree.

I don't want to sound like I'm a marriage counselor but if your work schedule is such that it doesn't allow you enough time to spend with your wife, I'd recommend really thinking of ways you can reduce your working hours or work load or you're going to be in a real predicament with your marriage. Add to the fact that you and your wife have never really lived together here in the states and she's coming from a different culture, with no family or friends close by for support.

Anyhow, I hope you can come up with some solutions soon. :star: Best wishes! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-25 19:08:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I just talked to Tita and she got us approved. She is waiting to pay Del Bros now. Thank you Lord. Thank you Mother Mary.



Congratulations! :star: :star: :star: :star: :star: I extend that congratulations to everyone else who had their interview last week and were approved! Hallelujah!
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 02:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Filipinos are very social people. We thrive on the support and closeness of our relationships with our family, friends, relatives, neighbors, and extended families. Rosemarie’s support was cut off all of a sudden and she felt the loss.

To reiterate what others before me have suggested, you might want to consider doing these things for her:

1) Subscribe to TFC (The Filipino Channel) so she can watch Filipino TV programs. http://www.abs-cbni.com/ It costs money but my US relatives tell me it feels just like home when they watch TFC.
2) Contact Fil-Am associations and attend their get-togethers with her. Rosemarie would feel an immediate reconnection and this will help in her adjustment
3) If she is Catholic, you might want to ask a priest (a Filipino priest if you can find one) to come and sprinkle holy water around your house. Offer to buy a crucifix (blessed with holy water) to be placed in the wall of your living room and near your bedroom door. This would help her to feel secure around your house. I’m sure you guys have noticed the crucifix, statues of saints and rosaries in Filipino houses or cars. They our security blanket.
4) Serve Filipino food at least 3 times a week.
5) Buy phone cards so she can call family regularly.
6) Continue to assure her of your love and support and don’t snap at her even if you want to. Try to empathize with her.
7) If you can afford it, a promise of a trip back home will give her something to look forward to. But make sure you come with her.

I appreciate the fact that you guys here are sensitive to your ladies' feelings and are seeking ways to help your loved ones cope during her period of adjustment. Loads of patience, bucketful of love, and tons and tons of understanding are what both partners need in this difficult stage.

After the euphoria of finally getting the visa has subsided, real life starts.

Let us remain steadfast in our love for each other and pray for the success of our marriages.

(F) Cora



Amen, sister Cora! That brought tears to my eyes. :crying: I've told Jinky many times that I am humbled that she is giving up her whole life in the Philippines to start a new life here with me. I want that transition and the life we develop together to be as comfortable for her as possible. (L)

(4 days to go!!!) :dance:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 11:20:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Today is much different for Rosemarie and myself. I know that God is shining upon us. Last night we went to dinner at a local restaurant. I saw my wife's eyes light up as a couple was seated behind us. The woman was a Filipina. After we finished our dinner I made introductions and we saat down and talked with them for two hours. The Filipina has been here 28 years. She is going to introduce my wife to other Filipinas here and take her shopping. I also took some advice from some of you on VJ. On Wednesday they are installing " Filipino dish network" and we will get 6 Filipino channels! My cable company didn't offer these. we are going to the Filipino market in Jacksonville also to get some of the foods she misses. Its a good start I think. After we talked with the couple last night I determined that "homesickness" is the major issue for her. I truly want her to be happy, as she is so precious to me. Thanks to all of you here on VJ!



That's great news to hear, Glenn! :star: As PW suggested, if Rosemarie is Catholic - do get her connected to the local church to see about having the house blessed by a priest. :yes:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 15:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Thank you so much for sharing what you have written in your letter. I might do just that. But for the meantime I think I should be patient enough and wait instead. I guess I'm just being PARANOID, BIG TIME!. I dunno, it is turning out this time for me that waiting for the visa delivery is far more stressing than preparing for the actual interview itself. Hahahaha. Crazy huh? :wacko: We'll maybe because right now after knowing that you got approved and yet you still don't have the visa, you begin to think if there is something wrong, could they possibly need additional documents? If yes, what are those and how come they didn't inform me? :unsure: Instead what the CO told me the last time is that he is wishing me good luck in my upcoming life in the US, I even ask him if it does mean that I am approved and he told me ''Yeah, thats it" and instructed me to go outside and wait for my number to be called for further instructions. I dunno, I guess its just my mind playing tricks on me. Hate it. Hehehehehe. Oh well, wish me luck and please pray that I still maintain my sanity as I go through this phase, hehehehe.

God bless to you both!


Hi Karen,

I apologize if you've already stated so but did Delbros ever send you a text letting you know that your visa is about to be in transit? Jinky got a text from Delbros on Friday afternoon the day of the interview stating that they will keep her updated as to the status of the visa delivery. She got her second text the following Tuesday (after holiday) that stated the visa was in transit and she should expect it within 1-2 days. It was delivered to her the following day (Wednesday).

If you paid the Delbros fee, it might be faster to call Delbros to find out if the visa has been released to them by the Embassy. If it hasn't, then I'd follow what Fel recommended - a letter of inquiry to the Embassy.

Good luck...hope you get to the bottom of it soon! :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 19:26:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hello everyone!

Just wana share that im in SF already just last friday, Feb 23, 2007. It feels so amazingly good to be with Eric!

The flight was okay, i flew with PAL 9pm flight to SFO and arrived 5:30pm same day :D. The immigration guy was very nice, i presented my passport and I-94 and the brown envelope, he stamped on some pages and on the I-94 while asking questions at the same time like.. who's the lucky guy; how did we meet; if i have ever travelled to the USA before; when is the wedding...etc etc.. but he didnt ask for the X-ray and im glad coz i checked it in together with my luggages :P. After he finished doing stamps, smiled and said... Okay! Welcome to the USA, I ran to the luggages and mine was among the last to appear since i was first to check-in in Manila :D. When i found my luggages and passed by custom guys, they only asked what i brought and then let me go to the exit without scanning my things, i went to the EXIT and Eric was there, standing and smiling with bouquet of roses and hugged me and kissed me with so much happiness! (L). We celebrated then Visa day, Valentines day, our Birthdays... we call it B-V day! :D

So THANK YOU ALL, [esp mention: to PW, Uling, Steven&Jinky, LuzyC] youre all very helpful since the start of this journey, and please stay helpful as we go on to the next part - AOS.

Fel, it was fun to be sharing with you the excitement while waiting for boarding, wished we had same flight, but im happy to know that you had safe flight and youre very happy now with your Franko!

Tessa and Ana, have a safe flight this weekend! Hope Ana will fly via SFO too so we could meet again! Miss you guys! You rock girls!!!

Lyann (joone45) it was nice meeting you in person few days before my flight, looking forward to have someone closer here in the US.

Congrats who just got approved and Goodluck to all whos next in line for the interview!



That's great! I hope my fiancee has that kind of experience! Thanx for sharing and good luck! .........Chad



I missed this post! Glad to know you've arrived and thanks for the heads up on what it was like at POE! :star: We haven't really decided on wedding date, but planning to wed about 2-3 weeks after her arrival - I'll pass on the info to Jinky. :yes:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 19:39:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

(4 days to go!!!) :dance:

How's the migraine, Steven? Still building up? Ayayay! :lol: :devil:

Who’s in the picture with Jinky? Her sister? She is pretty like Jinky.



I think I'll just howl at the moon for the next few nights. :P

The person in the pic is her friend and colleague (another dentist). :star:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-26 21:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

hello..my interview was Feb 23 and was approved!
right now, just waiting for the visa since we asked them to deliver it here in Makati. I hope it will be here soon.
thank you all for the support!

vhi



Big Congratulations! :star: Whooohooo! Another successful February interview! :star: When do you hope to fly here to the states?
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-27 02:43:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Thank you to all VJ family specially to those who gave support/advises everyday in this Forum. :thumbs:


I received my VISA yesterday Feb 27 - Batangas. :dance:


Maraming Salamat!!! :D



Congratulations! :star:

Hey guys, just wanted to inform you that finally I already got my visa today, February 28, 2007. :dance: :dance:

Thanks you so much everyone!


Hi Kar3n,
Glad to hear that you got your Visa.. :dance: :dance: So happy for you my pretty bunso :luv: (F)
Kelan ang alis mo?Take care always ha..miss na kita..
Goodluck!
P.S.I like your cute avatar :thumbs:


My Gorgeous Ate LuzyC,

I miss you too a lot as well, too bad were not able to talk that much the last time we saw each other. :( Hopefully we can meet up or maybe me and my fiance can go to your place and visit you there in the US.(What do you think about that? Sounds cool enough huh?) I am leaving next Saturday, March 10, with LAX as POE. :yes:

Glad you like my avatar, but its still nothing compared to you and Gary's awsome photos together. YOU TWO ARE THE BEST!!! :thumbs:

Take care always!



Whoohooo, Karen! :dance: I'm so relieved and happy for you! I just told Jinky today about you not receiving your Visa yet and then we both thought how fortunate we were to not get stuck in AR. Thank God! :star: :thumbs:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-28 01:59:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Sis and friends, I'm predicting a magnitude 9.9 earthquake early morning hours of March 3 in Manila... :luv: :lol:
... and another 9.9 on March 2 somewhere in Laguna Beach, CA :devil: hehehe

Hey Steven, you are in Laguna Beach right? 3 days to go, my friend!



Posted Image


Guuuuhuuuuuhuuuuhuuuuuuhuuuuu...my mind is turning to mush! :dance: :lol: :blush:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-28 15:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
For anyone who has parked at LAX, how easy or difficult was it to find a parking spot that had an hourly rate?

Are there any places that you'd recommend or any places to avoid?


Thank you in advance! :star:

Edited by Steven_and_Jinky, 28 February 2007 - 08:20 PM.

one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-28 20:19:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

For anyone who has parked at LAX, how easy or difficult was it to find a parking spot that had an hourly rate?

Are there any places that you'd recommend or any places to avoid?


Thank you in advance! :star:

hey steve, its been a long time since i've had to park at lax, but i think on a friday night it will be rather busy. here is a website with some good info on parking and lots of other lax stuff, including maps. good luck.
http://www.iflylax.com/



I have that one bookmarked already. Thank you though! :star: According to ifly, LAX has over 22,000 short term parking spaces, but your right - Friday night is going to busy. I'm hoping to get over there by about 7:30pm (I have to drive from OC) - just hope it doesn't take an hour to park. Yeaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh....guuuhhuuuuuuuuu... :lol: :blush:
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-28 20:46:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

For anyone who has parked at LAX, how easy or difficult was it to find a parking spot that had an hourly rate?

Are there any places that you'd recommend or any places to avoid?

Thank you in advance! :star:

I found parking right away. Worse case... upper level parking is normally available. Cheers!!!



Thank you, Sheriff!!!! Yeeeeeooooooooowwwwwww....huuuuuhhhhhhhhuuuuuuuhuuuuuuuhhuuuu...

Be sure to climb under a table at about 11pm when the earthquake hits! :P
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-02-28 21:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Thank you, Sheriff!!!! Yeeeeeooooooooowwwwwww....huuuuuhhhhhhhhuuuuuuuhuuuuuuuhhuuuu...
Be sure to climb under a table at about 11pm when the earthquake hits! :P

Hello bro,
Sounds like your so excited..wonder why? :P
HAppy safe trip to Jinky and Job and wish you both all the very best!
Hey..get busy with the laundry! :D



Thank you, sis! I'll try to get pics up after the earthquaking has lessened. :P
one...two...treeMalePhilippines2007-03-01 12:51:00