[cac_li]

I just completed my adoption--I sold a timeshare that I had and also cut back on all my expenses--reduced cable, got rid of cell phone ( have prepaid now), stopped going out to dinner, buying clothes, traveling, started carpooling to work, cut out dunkin donuts coffee, brought lunch to work, etc. It is amazing how much you can cut out and not really notice that much--especially when you have a goal in mind. Little changes really did add up for me.

I overnighted all my documents and then realized later on that my agency only sent out a package to Russia on Thursday, so some of that expense wasn't necessary. I also paid more for a hotel in Moscow to be near Red Square--not sure that was necessary b/c our coordinator took us sightseeing.

I definitely wouldn't pick an agency based solely on fees--it is probably the most important decision you will make with adoption--I ended up switching placement agencies, so it cost a little more, but well worth it!!

I did refinance my home so that I have money to stay home from work for several months with the baby--my job only gives 8 days for an adoption. Best of luck!