First Doctor Visit

Today Wednesday May 31st was Matthew's first visit with Dr. Sherman, Chief of Pediatrics in Valencia. Since his Russian medical report was so contradictory Dr. Sherman ordered all new immunizations and bloodwork to be done. Matthew received 4 shots today (2 in each thigh, has tiny band aids on)and a TB injection/test in his little arm. He then went down to the lab and they started taking blood. You could hear the screams down the hallway in the medical building. Brian went in with him and stayed in the waiting room. After Moscow I just can't do it, Daddy is much better at showing no emotion, Mommy gets hysterical and wants to beat people up. They had to stop as whatever blood test they did in Moscow was rough and his little baby vein still hasn't recovered 2 weeks later. They will do it again Monday to get the balance. On Friday we go for his TB reading. I can bring in his "samples" also then. I won't go into detail but they are checking for Giardia so I am scraping souvenirs off diapers for the lab for the next 3 days.

Tonight I checked in on Matthew as he was unusually quiet and he has a high fever. I was ready to get dressed and rush him to the emergency room but Brian said to check the internet first. Sure enough, babies and toddlers are prone to high fevers up to 104 degrees right after vaccinations. Whew! It was just under 102 and he was so hot all over. Would have been nice if the Doctor or his nurse would have warned us. I gave him infant Tylenol (now I know why the Doctor handed me the free sample and said I would need it later most likely) and I'm waiting for it to go down. Should take 30-45 minutes. Of course I could just start calling everyone I know that has small children and confirm my internet findings.

Good news though, Dr. Sherman found no trace of any type of heart condition or anything else that may require surgery other than his eventual circumcision. It was at that point that he ordered all new tests instead of titers. Says he doesn't trust ANYTHING on his previous medicals now. Okay let's hope now that all other tests come back great so that nothing major got missed in Moscow or Tyumen either.
The doctor and nurse were quite impressed with Matthew. Grabbed the stethoscope and put it on correctly and including the part for his ears. Said he will be a doctor one day.

Latest measurements: length 31 1/2 inches and weight 21 pounds 10 ounces and head circumference 18 1/2 inches. He is at 30% on the growth charts for height, 5% for weight and 0% for head circumference but Dr. Sherman said not to worry as Matthew is sharp as a tack. Albert Einstein has a small head circumference too.

Okay I just checked on him again. His temp is down 1/2 a point so the tylenol is working.

Applebee's for lunch!

On Tuesday May 30th we went to Brian's eye doctor appointment and took Matthew so everyone could meet him. We then went to lunch at Applebee's. I gave Matthew a lemon wedge to play with as Grandma did that last week and I noticed it cleans his little hands too. To my surprise he put it in his mouth and bit down on it. These pictures are before and after he bit into it. Very funny expression and I know have it as my background on the computer.

Camarillo Outlet Mall

On Sunday May 28th, Matthew got to experience what makes Mommy truly happy...SHOPPING!

He caught on quickly after visiting The Children's Place, Osh Kosh B'Gosh, Baby Gap, Stride Rite and of course Coach. He looks right at home doesn't he?

The last pic is from when he we got home, he was so worn out.

testing

The "Big House"

This here's the "Big House". I called it that because it's run like a minimum security prison and it was kind of a joke to say we were "breaking Matthew out of the Big House" when we were there. Well this morning I had to fill out my paperwork to collect Family Leave benefits for the next 6 weeks so I got out the translated documents from court that I have to photocopy and guess what???!!!

On the court papers and MOE (Minister of Education) paperwork Matthew is referred to as an...INMATE! Yep, all orphans are considered inmates on their official paperwork. Unbelievable. So my expression of the "Big House" really isn't a joke anymore. Poor Matthew, at least they didn't dress him in black and white stripes or an orange jumpsuit. Of course based on what he was wearing 5/15 it may have been an improvement. I'm sorry but as cute as he is, lavender shoes and orange/yellow pink flowered socks just aren't my boy. The jury is still out on the jumper, could be unisex? See pic.

In Loving Memory

Shi Shi Wess

April 16, 1994 - May 25, 2006

Shi Shi was our first "child". She was a wonderful English Bulldog and companion through all of our ups and downs the past many years. She was much loved and will be missed.

She's up there in Doggie heaven looking out down here for Matthew.

First night in his own room 5/26

We are keeping our fingers crossed that this works. Brian got the monitors working and we think he'll actually sleep through the night in his own room for the first night. He was busy in there during nap time today rearranging his stuffed animals.

Meeting Grandpa Hal and Grandma Eileen 5/26

Today was a very special day. Matthew got to meet Grandma and Grandpa for the very first time. We went to lunch at Brent's and Matthew go to know them as he ate pastrami and eggs for the very first time!

First morning home 5/25

Matthew woke up long before anyone else did. Wanted to sit in his new highchair and get down to business. You can't see it from the picture but it's an appropriate romper. It says "If I don't sleep, nobody sleeps!". Truer words never spoken.

First night home May 24th

We arrived home via Limo about 8pm. Several neighborhood kids ran up to greet Matthew who instantly woke up to greet his new friends. He is the youngest child in the neighborhood now. Everyone else had their babies years ago so all the Mommies came by to see him also. He happily entertained them with squeals of laughter and smiles until he decided he was very hungry. Remember we had been up for 24 hours at least with about 3 hours sleep between us so we just wanted some American food and sleep. We ordered pizza from Domino's and put Matthew in his new high chair for the first time and let him fall asleep on the couch.
Such an angel when sleeping.

Brand new U.S. Citizen

At approximately 5pm on Wednesday 5/24/06 we exited the Aeroflot plane at the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX. Matthew's feet touched the ground and he became a U.S. Citizen. Little guy was exhausted as were Mommy and Daddy but managed to look at the camera for this monumental occasion in his little life.

Aeroflot Flight#321

To say that I will NEVER fly Aeroflot with a child again is an understatement.
The bulkhead seats were available with bassinets for people traveling with babies.
One problem....we're aren't Russian therefore do not qualify for anything closer than row 20. They call themselves an International Airline? Well maybe they could start treating their passengers a bit better, learn some English and serve meals that don't beg the question "Is this Meat?". Matthew slept 2 of the 13 hours on the way home without benefit of morning or afternoon nap. It was just a miserable flight no matter how you slice it.
Here is Matthew sleeping on Daddy.

Good Tuesday Morning!

Matthew got up early and wanted to play before breakfast. Notice the early Elvis decor?
Yep, that's our apartment all right, pure early 70's all around. Matthew managed to yank down one of the vertical blinds. I stuffed it behind one of our three pieces of velour furniture. I noticed something today a bit odd. The ceiling appears to be concrete. How strange. I'm sure Johnny can explain it to me. This is our last night here, first night it hasn't rained too since we got back to Moscow last Wednesday night. Tatyana came by this afternoon giving us back Matthew's passport and final adoption papers with english translation. He is now fully registered also with the Russian Consulate. I want to come home but boy do I dread the 13+ hour flight with a baby boy just beginning to embrace freedom. Today was a trying day with the little Prince. Was quite whiney and learned that if he cries long enough someone will actually come get him. He still looks a bit shocked when someone comes, poor little guy. Finally went to sleep, this being his last night in Russia. His new life starts for real tomorrow when we touch down at LAX. Hopefully immigration will go quickly and the limo ride home will be quick.
Thank you everyone for your well wishes. We'll be home soon!

Nap Time for Matthew...well maybe.

I walked by the bedroom to see if Little Man was asleep yet. Not only was he awake we was leaking all over. Too much banana and chicken noodle for lunch! Brian picked him up and held him about 2 feet in front of him and we got to the shower for a hose down to which Matthew was not amused. Too big a job for baby wipes. This was taken after he go dried off and and a new diaper put on and was told to take a nap. Yeah, he's going to lay down willingly.
He's such a happy little guy now, even when he's covered in poop! Thank god we have a washer in this apartment rental. Not hard to figure out who's in charge in this family now.

Monday walk and shop with Matthew

Monday, late morning we took Matthew for a walk and to the grocery mart.
He did pretty well, pointed to the yogurt and baby food. Plain yogurt and turkey hot dogs...yum yum! He also had his ever present cell phone. Hasn't put it down since we left the orphanage. He's a very important baby you see and cannot miss a call.

Sunday night before bed time

Matthew just wants to play all day and all night. Especially before bed time!
This was last night (Sunday 5/21) before we finally got him to lay down.

Tryng on Daddy's Sandal

Matthew grabbed Brian's sandal last night before going to bed and actually figured out how the velcro works. He looks so serious!

At the Apartment

On Friday afternoon after the Embassy visit, we moved to an apartment near Gorky Park.
Matthew now has freedom to move around a bit and we can have some space. It's a 1 bedroom with living room, kitchen, bathroom and large entry way. Scary on the outside and decent on the inside. Not nearly as big or nice as the Government House we stayed at in October but suits our needs. I am able to cook all meals and get Matthew on a schedule without dragging him to a restaurant or leaving so housekeeping can clean. It comes with free high speed internet, and free phone calling to the UnitedStates.There is alittle play ground next door and 24 hour food market across the street. It has rained nearly all day here today so no outside time for Matthew today. Here's Matthew in his "crib" at the apartment. He was asleep in about 30 seconds after the picture. This child is very adaptable. Hope it clears up tomorrow so we can go outside for anice walk with him.

U.S. Embassy Visit

On Friday at 2pm we went to the U.S.Embassy. Not something I would wish on anyone.
35 families trying to get interviews and obtain Visas for 38 children. Out of the 38 I would say at least 30 were 2 and under. 2pm is normal naptime for these kids so one by one you could hear the meltdowns occuring. Matthew was no exception other than to giggle at some other kids before realizing he was tired also. The Embassy is all about Hurry Up and Wait. On the way out I saw the first US Soldier and told him I was glad to see him. He smiled and said "I bet you are, good luck with your son". We have the most polite Marines. On the way in the front is guarded by Russian Military, only US Military is inside the "compound". Matthew insisted on taking part in the interview with the Embassy clerk, he put his sticky hands on the guys window and put wet kisses all over the window. The guy tried really hard to be polite but I saw him cringing. Worth the wait actually, Matthew is leaving his mark everywhere. This picture is Matthew putting his socks on for the Interview.

No pictures allowed of the Embassy inside or in the front. You are allowed to snap a picture from a block away if you want. I didn't but might before we leave Moscow. No cameras, cell phones or toys with batteries allowed inside.

Filatov Clinic Doctor Visit

Thursday morning (May 18) at 8:30am we had to be at the Filatov Clinic for his US Embassy medical exam. We were supposed to then be at the Embassy by 2pm but that didn't quite happen. Since his birthmother had syphillis at the time of his birth the US Embassy insists on an HIV blood test even though he has been tested 3 times before and was never positive and his mother was HIV negative as well. The doctor was Boris, a very cool guy. He used to play hockey for the Russian Team and traveled the world in the mid 70's. He called Matthew "Buddah Belly" because he's getting chunky quick. I had just fed him so his tummy was full anyway. He measured in at 31 inches and weighs 21 1/2 pounds now. He is a big boy and still wears size 12 months...barely. The doctor said he was very healthy and hated prescribing the blood test. I took Matthew to the lab where they had me hold him down while they stuck a needle in his arm. Mommy got more hysterical than Matthew. Matthew got over it in about an hour, Mommy is still upset about it. Of course the next morning they called to say he was negative. They tortured my baby for nothing. This picture shows him after lunch that day playing on our bed at the Marriott. You can see his bandage on his arm, I think they used super glue to something, poor little guy.

First Plane Ride

We left Tyumen Wednesday evening 5/17, two days ahead of schedule. Matthew came through the 2 1/2 hour plane ride with flying colors. No he didn't have his own seat, we took turns holding him. He got to eat, we didn't. He was good the whole trip, just babbled and giggled the entire time. Gave him a pacifier for take off and landing and he was fine. The flight attendent offered him hard candy, I couldn't believe it. Trying to pry it from his pudgy little hands was another story but he happily traded it for a cookie.

First night with Mommy & Daddy

About 4 hours after he was officially "sprung" from the orphanage.
Doesn't look too upset does he?

Dressed to leave the baby house forever

All dressed up and ready to GO!

Matthew Solomon Wess is ours forever!

On Tuesday May 16th, 2006 at 9:55 am, the judge returned with her decision. She granted our petition to adopt our son and with the recommendation of the Public Prosecutor, Orphanage Director and Minister of Education Official she waived the standard 10 day waiting period. We too custody of Matthew at 2:00pm and finally said goodbye to the orphanage forever at 4:15pm.

Matthew was quite active on the 3 hour drive back to Tyumen. No car seats of course. My idea of him sitting quietly on my lap the entire time or napping lasted all of 10 minutes. Already he listened to Daddy as the voice of authority, Mommy is good for changing diapers, giving him a bath and feeding him. Daddy is the fun guy, they already watched a hockey game in Russian together. At least 1 of them knew what was being said and it wasn't the big guy. They both told me to "shhhhsh" when I talked over the TV. Yes they've bonded.

Today Brian gets to run around with our agent and interpreter to the federal building in Tyumen to file papers and procure a passport for Matthew. This gives me time to play a bit with my son, put him down for his nap and repack. I tore through all suitcases and bags last night because when a baby is hungry...you have under 5 minutes to get dinner in his mouth. It started out with him fussing, then babbling loudly and pointing to his mouth then throwing his toys at us then full on tantrum with big tears. I don't recall when I've moved that fast. Brian tried to walk him around but that didn't help much. Finally I found the food and he ate carrots, applesauce, cereal and juice. Thank God!

He slept well last night for his first night. He woke up this morning giggling about 6am. He wasn't even scared a bit. Breakfast this morning was a new experience. Included in our hotel price is a daily breakfast buffet. They even had a highchair they wheeled (reluctantly) out of the kitchen. I think it is the same one Lucy used for little Desi about 55 years ago. No saftey strap and all metal. Matthew ate a banana, fruit puffs (finger food I brought), cheese blintz and juice. Cried when I tried to feed him porridge. Spit out corn flakes at me and anyone walking by. The mess under his highchair was something the restaurant workers we quite unhappy with from the glares. An older lady walked by and told him to behave in Russian. He just laughed at her like "Ha ha, I don't have to listen to all you old cranky Babushka's anymore!". He did however straighten up when she walked by again. I think knows though that he's not going back there. He says a few things. "Bo Bo" to everything he likes. "da da" often but I told Brian to get over himself because he's not referring to Daddy because Da means Yes in Russian. He said I'm just being a poor sport because he isn't saying "ma ma" yet. Hmmmm.....

Anyway, everything is on schedule for us to return home 5/24. Once I get me laptop charged and find a wireless connection where I won't die of lung cancer within 20 minutes I will downloand pics from my camera and add them so everyone can see Matthew's progress, goodby to his old life and first night/morning as a Wess.

I'll write more later when I have some privacy. The guy at the business center acts likes he's a proctor at a state license exam to something. Chesley knows exactly what I mean!

We are in Tyumen (Siberia)!

We are here and nearly at the end of our Journey to Matthew. It is now shortly past midnight on Sunday night while most of you are enjoying Mother's Day brunch. Tyumen is 13 hours ahead of Los Angeles. We went over court questions today for a while. Time to get some rest, we leave early tomorrow morning for Tobolsk and to spend the majority of the day with Matthew, I can't wait to see my little man again. Our court hearing is 9am Tuesday morning, God help me! Good news is that we should have custody of Matthew within a few hours of the judge's decision if everything goes smooth. I'll write more from Tobolsk.

We have Arrived in Moscow!

We arrived in Moscow shortly before 1pm on Saturday (11 hours ahead of los angeles if you're trying to figure it out). It is currently 1:30am Sunday here. We caught up on sleep and now have been up since 9pm but going back to sleep once we update everyone. We are up at 7:30am on Sunday to leave for Tyumen.

The Marriott Tveryskaya is even nicer than I had anticipated. It's just as well run as any Marriott. We had some technical issues with the DVD player we brought and then the adapters wouldn't work with my computer so I was a bit panicked but it has been fixed. They even upgraded us to a Business Suite with a bottle of wine, fruit plate and breakfast buffet for 2.

We were met at the airport by our interpreter Dimitry, he was not amused we were the last 2 people to go through immigration services. I broke my own rule and got testy with the immigration officer after I had already waited in line for over an hour. This landed me in the back of the line and you can imagine my disposition. Brian went to go find the Officer in Charge at immigration and it got sorted out. For the record "international incident" were their words not mine. I'll explain later or maybe not all what happened. If you really must know you can email me off the blog.

Once we got settled into our room, Dimitry pulled out the US Embassy paperwork and we filled it out and gave him copies of everything we were told to bring. He says we need to change our reservations on coming home because the Russian Consulate can't get anything done quickly so we can't leave until Thursday 5/25. Ummm...not gonna happen. I have a plan, it will be revealed to them once I have my baby, his new birth certificate and final decree of adoption in my hand.

We'll write more from Tyumen once we arrive there and get checked it. Yet another time difference. That will put us 13 hours ahead of los angeles. I should have all answers by dinner time Sunday regarding when we see Matthew, when we go to court etc.

The picture is from our "living room" in our suite.

We're leaving very soon....

It's now almost 1am. I am offically 99% unconcious.

All packed, had to pull out a 3rd piece of luggage for all the "gifts" and baby crap.

Going to try to get 1 1/2 hours sleep. Stop laughing, it could happen!

I'll write from Russia, yes this is for sure my last post for a while. I know I said that before but it's for real now.

Thank you Chesley for listening to me whine all the way home from work.
Thank you Johnny for going to get baby stuff with me and saving me from a meltdown in front of the diaper aisle.
Thank you Sue and everyone at work and Marilyn for your warm wishes today.

Love you guys!

Baby Shower pic #3

This is something he will play with for a while.
It goes from being a rocking trike to one Daddy can push him on down the street to one he can peddle himself. He thanks Pat, Asia and Coco very much!

Baby Shower pic #3

Obviously I can't post all of them here, well actually I could but why annoy everyone?

This is part of a gift from Susan and Michael, we have British Bulldogs and they are British....

Well I guess you had to be there, but it's very cute.

Baby Shower pic #2

Matt's loot!
He done good. This isn't even half.
Check out the basket Sue made, there is a racecar and driver and you push the head down and it starts up vroooooooom!

Brian wants to keep it for himself.

Baby Shower #1

Yeah, I had forgotten how to post.
Anyway, this is the cake, it tasted great.
Sue went to pick it up and saw it had a "not so manly" lamb on the front. She immediately bought a wooden bear and painted it and put it on the cake. Quick thinking! Love how the bakery spelled Matthew's name?

Baby Shower

Sue threw a baby shower at her home in Northridge on Sunday May 7th. Also our 11th Wedding Anniversary. It was great. RJ did the cooking and my closest friends and family came to welcome Matthew with lots of really cool stuff. I'm going to post a few pics and then that's it until we get to Russia. We are leaving in 3 1/2 hours for the airport. Sleep? What's that?