So regulations are varied from time to time at the discretion of the official- a practice that is quite common throughout the world. Perhaps the officer was in a great mood, or perhaps a chuckle made the agent decide to be lenient- and sometimes you may be at the brunt of an "off" day - regardless of the reasons there is no need for folks on this board to take personal digs at one another. You are strangers so you can't really do anything but speculate about the situations surrounding the others personal experience.
Thanks to all of you that are sharing your experiences, lets try to keep on track and be helpful - that is the main purpose of this board.
Emily, don't be late! I suggest you try and renew on Friday because you may find that next mondqay may be declared a day of national mourning since there will be a State funeral for the Father of Belize.