[hopscotch]

Hi everyone!
My DH and I decided early on that we wanted to adopt, and we'd REALLY like to adopt from Japan (we are open, however, to other options if this would be insurmountable for any reason). I have lots of questions and concerns, and I'll try not to repeat ones found in other threads, but if I do, sorry!
Here they are:
1. Neither my DH nor I are of Japanese descent. His mom was raised IN Japan, and many of their family friends are Japanese, but no direct lineage...Will this be a problem?
2. We don't live in Japan, and we have no intentions of moving there...well, we'd actually LOVE to, but our careers sort of prohibit us from doing so. How successful are adoptions to couples who are not residing in Japan?
3. I've read in a few threads that adoption costs can be kept to a reasonable figure - how is this achieved? For those of you who have adopted from Japan, which agency did you use?
4. For those who have adopted from Japan: What were some of the "surprises" in the adoption process, if any? Was there anything in the process that is unique to Japan adoption only?
5. Any other tips, kind words, or useful facts - all are very much appreciated!

I'm sure more questions will come to mind later, but this should be a good start!

-Sommer

[riverview]

there is an agency in Baltimore MD, who specializes in this type of adoption.