[tobeafamily]

Krista,

We adopted our son Ryan through domestic parental placement (AKA 'private') adoption 2 years ago. DH at the time was AD/USN E-6, now retired (2003). Our total expenses to adopt were $14,000, though we didn't spend that all at once, and through military and federal refunds/credits we got $12,000 of that back.

This is actually on the 'high side' for domestic adoption - most situations are well under $10K. There's a reason why you see high dollar domestic situations posted on the web - because very few can and are willing to pay that much.

Our largest single check written though was for $2300 to our attorney for finalization, and they even offered to take a payment plan.

Before we began our homestudy process, we set a savings goal. To meet it here are things we did:

1. Cut some but not all of our extra expenses - things like SCUBA trips and eating at expensive restaurants. Instead, we ate at moderate restaurants and such.

2. We asked our friends and family to give us gifts to our 'baby fund' in lieu of gifts at Christmas and birthdays. We got many 'just because' contributions.

3. Had garage sales and told everyone who came that we were raising funds for an adoption. We got lots of 'keep the change' and a few outright donations.

4. Sold stuff on eBay (amazing what you can sell on eBay) and put in our listing and 'about us' page that we were raising funds for an adoption.

5. We didn't do this but others we're friends with raised money having home parties like Homemade Gourmet, Tupperware, Pampered Chef, etc. Have to get the distributor to agree to give you some/all proceeds. Many will I think.

HTH, best of luck.

Regina