Our Journey to Matthew

Best Friends-January 2010

2010-02-07T10:25:00.000-08:00

Matthew started the year out right by spending time with his best friend Chase. We went to Americana at Brand in Glendale and trips to Chuck E Cheese's of course!

Happy Holidays 2009

2010-02-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for Santa and celebrating Hanukkah with family!

Mommie's little helper!

2010-02-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

Matthew loves to help cook! He even helped Grandma make spaghetti last night.

Legoland

2010-02-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

Okay so now we have annual passes for Legoland and Disneyland...and how many times have we gone back to each??? Zero of course but will change soon.

Happy 5th Birthday Matthew!

2010-02-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

Matthew turned 5 on November 17th. I took him to Disneyland and we had a lot of fun, just the two of us! The next weekend we had his birthday party at Fin's Glow Zone, indoor blacklight golfing. He had fun! Brian sure missed a good party and we missed him.

Happy Halloween 2009

2010-02-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

I'm so late at posting..I keep thinking EVERYONE is on Facebook where I post and find out they are not. I will try to post more often but...is anyone still coming to this blog?

It's been difficult to post with Brian gone but I'll make more of an effort.

Matthew went trick or treating with his best friend Chase at Chase's grandma's house.

We stopped at the pumpkin patch first and then a quick visit to Papa and Grandma so they could see him as Anakin Skywalker!

Griffith Park on Sunday August 16, 2009

2009-08-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our adoption group met at the Walt Disney Barn next to Griffith Park in Los Angeles (Los Feliz) this past Sunday. Matthew and I went and took Chase (his best friend, my '2nd' son) with us and had a good time with trains, playing and ending off at McDonald's for Happy Meals. We're starting to get out and do stuff again.

Goodbye Daddy July 3, 2009

2009-07-05T09:11:00.001-07:00

Family, friends and Matthew said their final goodbyes to Brian at 10am on Friday July 3, 2009.

Alan and Michael gave moving Eulogies and the chapel was packed. Brian would have considered it a "sellout crowd" and have been humbled and pleased. Matthew and I would like to thank everyone who attended and those that sent well wishes from afar. Please go to http://www.mem.com/ when you have a moment and you can post a message there or look at the photos that were shown during the service.

Love,

Debi & Matthew

Father's Day 2009

2009-07-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

Sadly, these are the very last photos of Matthew and Brian.

Taken Sunday June 21, 2009.

Matthew loved his Daddy so much.

Happy Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

We celebrated early at Matthew's favorite place Chuck E. Cheese's last night for pizza and fun.

Today we went to a light lunch at Mike's Diner near us where Matthew gave Mommy a card and very nice tote bag and perfume. We had an early dinner at Macaroni Grill with Grandma and Papa (Eileen and Hal). All in all it was a nice relaxing day and Matthew never left my side for a moment...literally!

Happy Easter 2009

2009-04-12T00:26:00.001-07:00

Springtime 2009

2009-04-12T00:18:00.000-07:00

April showers bring May flowers...Matthew is hoping for rain so he can wear his pirate raincoat Grandma got him. He has matching boots not pictured here that he practially lives in! On Saturday April 11th we went to Staples Center to watch the Kings vs. Sharks game. Believe it or not....the Kings WON! They actually held a lead and didn't blow it in the last 2 minutes of the game. So nice they decided to play as an actual team on the LAST home game of the season!

Doctor Time! 4 year 3 month check up

2009-03-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

Matthew is a bit advanced in skills and we are looking at putting him in Kindergarten in the Fall. One year earlier than planned but we don't want him to get bored and then become leader of a gang or something...just kidding.
He had to see Dr. Sherman this morning for his official 4 year 3 month check up complete with shots and blood tests (Mommy bailed quickly before the walk down the hall to the lab, Daddy is better at that). Matthew is now 33 1/2 lbs. and 39 5/8 inches tall. He is a big boy indeed! Just ask him, he will tell you. He did well on his first ever eye exam and was quite uncooperative during the hearing exam which I am told is normal for a 4 year old boy. Overall Dr. Sherman gave him a glowing report, says he's on target for everything and is excelling at manipulating his parents. Apparently he's a stand up comedian in his spare time.

Chase and Me-Best Buddies!

2009-03-11T16:42:00.000-07:00

Matthew spends time with his best buddy whenever possible! They are now ice skating together, when they do well they are rewarded with swedish pancakes afterwards. This past Sunday I took them both to Chuck E Cheese for about 4 hours where they cashed in their tickets for what else..pirate kits! I just love them both.

2009-01-01T23:05:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T17:48:00.000-08:00

Not really in the mood for celebrating (at least I wasn't) we went to Chuck E Cheese's until they almost closed at 10pm then went home and waited for the ball to drop at Midnight. Yes, Matthew stayed up the entire time...ugh! Anyway we had our picture "sketched" and here it is. We do wish everyone a happy and healthy new year!

Merry Christmas & Happy Hannukah!

2009-01-01T17:39:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Saturday December 20th with my best friend Marilyn and her family, we celebrated on Christmas Day in Rio Vista with the Pippin Gang (+ Richard) and we celebrated yet again on Sunday night December 28 with Brian's family. Here are photos from all 3.

Matthew has fun wherever he is.

Alma 1941-2008 may she rest in peace

2008-12-31T22:57:00.000-08:00

Meeting Alma in February 2004

Alma and Matthew meeting October 2006, he had been home just over 3 months from Russia

Her last Christmas, just 1 week ago.

Almost everyone that knows me knows that I was adopted at 3 months old. This is one reason why we were so open to adopting a child of our own. In February 2004 I was fortunate enough to meet my "Birth Mother" in Washington State. I visited 4 times although I'm sad to say not since October 2006. Alma suffered a heart attack Christmas night and although she appeared to be getting better as it was termed a "slight" heart attack she passed away at 3:30am on Sunday December 28, 2008. A very sad time for myself, my sister Barbara and two brothers Dave and Chief (who was flown home immediately from the war in Iraq). I was so glad to know her for the short time I did and that she got to meet her grandson Matthew. Here are a couple of pictures to remember her by. The last picture was taken Christmas Day. She will be missed by many.

Reindeer Romp at the LA Zoo 2008

2008-12-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

I won 4 tickets to the Zoo so yesterday I took Matthew, Chase and Alithea. We had lots of fun (other than the constant walking uphill part). We saw probably 95% of all animals, saw Santa and his reindeer, posed for pictures, made reindeer antlers and played at the playground for a really LONG time.

Winter Festival at PreSchool

2008-12-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

This past Friday, Matthew's preschool had their Winter Festival potluck/party for the kids and parents. The kids got to show off their class rooms and projects they've worked on the past month and they also got to do crafts and decorate cookies to take home. Matthew decorated his cookie, ate 1/2 and then decorated some more. Not one to waste time...lol

San Diego over Thanksgiving weekend

2008-12-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

We drove to San Diego friday after Thanksgiving and had some good cheap fun. Went to Las Americas premium outlet mall which literally sits on the US/Mexico border. They had lots of stuff for kids to play on and shops for Mommy to browse. On Sunday we visited downtown to see the Navy ships and the USS Midway, promised Matthew we would tour the Midway next time as he thinks it's HIS ship.

Happy 4th Birthday Matthew!

2008-12-14T09:24:00.000-08:00

We moved Matthew's birthday party at Chuck E Cheese to the following Sunday 11/23/08 and all went well...almost. On the way to the party we stopped at the bakery to pick up his elaborate Pirate cake. The bakery lost the slip and didn't make it! Not even an apology, will never ever use them again. We had to buy 2 cakes from Chuck E Cheese to fill in for about 30 people but it all worked out. It seems kids don't really care what's ON the cake, they just want to eat it and lots of it! Here are some pictures of Matthew enjoying his day with family and friends.

Birthday Party-Postponed due to Fires

2008-11-16T22:48:00.000-08:00

Matthew's big 4th Birthday Party planned for 2 months at Chuck E. Cheese in Valencia got scrapped at the last minute. The 5 freeway was closed both directions from our house down to the the Valley nearly all day Saturday. I could not in good concious celebrate when 3 of our friends were evacuated and scheduled to attend. Nor could we ask people to go 2 hours out of their way to take detours to get here. We have rescheduled for next Sunday, all but 1 are still coming and most were relieved. Matthew wasn't too upset (especially when I gave him ice cream) and his only comment was "okay, next week but the fire isn't invited!". Perfect sentiment.

2 thomas pics not included in last post

2008-11-16T22:41:00.000-08:00

Apparently you can only load 5 pics at a time...

Here are the last 2 from the previous post.

A Day Out With Thomas 2008!

2008-11-16T22:32:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday November 9, 2008, Matthew had a dream fulfilled! He got to ride Thomas the Train and meet Sir Topham Hatt. This of course meant driving for 2 hours to the Orange Empire Railway Museum in Perris CA but he was with his best friend so it was a fun drive.

The pictures show them waiting for Thomas with the Conducter, standing in front of the train after their 15 minute ride, getting a tattoo, breaking a piece off the play caboose, standing in front of one of the museum exhibits, inside a very old downtown LA trolley car and in front of the main sign as you are leaving. Matthew was pooped and skinned his knee twice, hence the defeated look on his face. He had a wonderful time and played for 5 hours with his best friend surrounded by trains. What a day!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-16T22:16:00.000-08:00

Here is Matthew getting ready to go trick or treating, after trick or treating on the porch and Ginger our 10 year old bully staying in her matching pirate costume for about 2 minutes. She was not amused.

Harvest Festival 2008

2008-11-16T22:04:00.000-08:00

Each year Matthew's school does a Harvest Festival instead of referring to it as a Halloween Party/Parade. This year he wore his Pirate Captain costume and was second in line during the parade. I didn't want to post pics of the parade as there are a bunch of kids in there and I don't know them so best not to put their faces on the internet. Included in this post are pictures of him next to a big pumpkin in his classroom, making a spider out of cream cheese, ritz cracker, pretzels and chocolate chips and a photo of his spelling his name correctly. If you look at all of them on the wall (double click the picture for full view) you will see he is the ONLY preschooler to spell his name correctly! The comments you overheard as parents saw the kids mispelled names and the kids comments back them were priceless. "Why didn't you spell you name right". "Why did you give me such a long name?!" "You spelled your name wrong". "I don't like my name". Kids are awesome!

Captain Matty

2008-10-28T23:10:00.000-07:00

The Pirate to end all Pirates!

He probably led the Russian fleet in the 16th Century.

Lombardi Ranch 2008

2008-10-28T23:01:00.000-07:00

People come from miles around to Lombardi Ranch in Santa Clarita Valley.

Just acres and acres of farmland covered in pumpkins. Matthew enjoyed climbing on everything, petting the animals, picking out pumpkins and of course the train ride.

This is his 3rd year in a row of going.

Ice Tots 1

2008-10-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

Matthew officially graduated Tiny Tots Ice Skating lessons 2 weeks ago and immediately enrolled in Ice Tots 1 which is the next gradient. No bar to hold onto and parents are told to backoff. Matthew got his own pair of hockey skates and next week I'll get a picture with his new customized hockey helmet also. All he wants to know is when can he get a stick and go play hockey. Go Red Wings!

Papa's 80th Birthday

2008-10-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to get more recent pictures posted here so the nex few posts will not be too wordy.

I"m also in the middle of putting Matthew's 4th Birthday party together as soon as we wrap up Halloween!

This is from Brian's Dad's 80th Birthday Party over Labor Day weekend.

First Day of School

2008-10-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, been very busy with Little Man and his new school and social calendar. Here are a couple of pics from his first day of school and also some crafts he worked on the first couple of weeks. He loves it and his teacher! I enrolled Matthew in "Kids in Motion" also once a week. Coach Ingrid comes to school on Thursday and does constant motion activities for 30-40 minutes. He always sleeps very well on Thursday nights.

The first picture is Matthew refusing to get out of the car, then a couple as he settles in with new friends and then hugging his teacher at the end of the day.

click on any picture for the full view

Week #2 on Ice

2008-08-17T20:48:00.001-07:00

Matthew seems to be catching on to ice skating. On Saturday I took Matthew since Brian is laid up from surgery for the next couple of weeks. Matthew was sure to tell me and anyone else within ear shot that Daddy laces up his skates better. I think I'm just going to buy him a pair of hockey skates and be done with it. This week he was not so eager to step onto the ice. He insisted he needed a stick. The instructor finally picked him up and took off skating with him up him up in the air. I forgot my digital camera but the photos from my phone give you the overall look of this lesson. They learned how to skate forward (walk) and stoop and pick up something (beanbags), carry them to the basket and drop them. They also learned something very important..how to get up. Matthew "practiced" this about 20 times. He is now expert at falling on his behind and getting up quickly and gracefully. Other parents were cheering him on also. He's starting to have a fan following of sorts.

My son, the superstar on ice! LOL

Ice Skating Lessons begin...

2008-08-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

Matthew put on ice skates and hit the ice for the first time ever yesterday 8.9.08. While the other toddlers were standing with their arms outstretched for balance and marching up and down to get the feel of the skates, Matthew just walked on by to the gate to the "Pond" and waited for the instructor. They gave him a little bar type thingy to hold onto at first and here are the pictures of his first couple of minutes on the ice. My batteries died so I only got 3 shots but he got rid of the bar after 10 minutes and just sort of got used to the ice for the remaining 20. He loved it and wants to go again. He say he wants to play for the Red Wings. I asked him why not the LA Kings since that's our home team. He said "they lose". Even a 3 year old knows the Kings suck! He will be in the Tiny Tots course for 7 more weeks. If you are near the Ice Station in Valencia, he is there every Saturday at 10am. The instructor said he was so comfortable he may skip Ice Tots and go right onto To Stars next. Matthew just wants to play hockey, all he could say was "where's the stick". Give him a year or less and he'll give Sidney Crosby a run for his money....okay maybe 10 years.

Summer time 2008

2008-08-10T11:50:00.000-07:00

I thought I posted new pictures and then I just checked and I had not. So here are just some random pictures of the little monster enjoying his summer. Hope everyone is having a fun filled summer and not too hot on the West Coast or too wet on the East.

Disney's California Adventures June 10th

2008-07-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

I won 4 tickets from Kost.FM radio for a private party at Disneyland CA Adventures. We got there about 9pm and stayed until 2am. Matthew was totally wired. Alithea went with us and we had a good time. It's more kid oriented with sets re-created from Disney kid movies (Monster's Inc., Bugs Life, Toy Story etc.) Matthew knew ALL of the characters and went on everything he was big enough to ride on. Most of the pictures didn't come out because my camera sucks at night...actually it could be a photographer error but shhhhh....let's blame it on the camera.

Happy 50th Birthday Daddy!

2008-07-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Brian's 50th Birthday at Buca di Beppo in Valencia. Just 17 of us crammed into the "Pope Room". Matthew did once again run into the kitchen but this time he had his cousins chasing him down. He was an angel while he was wedged between "Papa & Gamma" but once the sugar hit, I got him handed over to me quick.

Montrose 2008

2008-07-01T23:47:00.000-07:00

We made our annual trip to the Arts & Crafts fair in Montrose. Matthew had a good time as you can see....

Just walking around being colorful, Speed Racer, Jockey in Training and Dragon Slayer!

May 2008 and 2nd "Gotcha" Day

2008-06-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

Wow time flies. I will seriously make time to post more often. My apologies to the friends and relatives long distance who check this often only to find nothing new. I'm leaving on vacation (2008 National Barbie Doll Collector Convention) to Kansas City MO on Monday morning 6/16 so I will post more pics and Matthew tidbits from there since I will have some relaxing time here and there. Matthew and Brian are staying in CA. In May I just couldn't stand my hair any longer, I called my sister in law up in Rio Vista and told her to pick a date for me to come up. She is the best hairdresser in the world (to me anyway). We drove up and stayed in Fairfield and got to spend some quality time with the family. We also celebrated our 2nd anniversary of having Matthew with us forever while we were there so it was a family celebration also. Here are a few pictures. Matthew is getting big. 37 inches and 30 pounds as of June 1st. He starts pre-school full time the end of August. More on that and all other facts you've been missing in a couple of days.

Santa Anita Park 04/13/2008

2008-04-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

I won tickets to Carnival Days at Santa Anita Park (Race track) for this past weekend. Due to Brian's latest foot surgery he couldn't go so Grandpa and Grandma went with Matthew and I to the Track yesterday. Grandpa went off to play the ponies while Matthew set off to ride a pony. They advertised that there would be child size racing silks and a miniature winner's circle for photos but when we got there, no one in the infield had a clue what we were talking about. Matthew had a blast "racing his horsey" around the track nonetheless. It was 99 degrees with NO breeze or shade to speak of. Matthew also went on a flying car ride (yellow of course) and just hung out with Mommy and Grandma. I finally bet on the 6th race because a horse by the name of "Senator Matty" was running. He was in first place for over half the race and then just sort of stopped running. Oh well, the REAL Matty never stops running!

The top picture (didn't load right of course) is of Matthew and Mimi (her Mommy just gave me this pic) at his previous daycare. This was probably the week he left to go to Alithea's. Mimi and he were pretty much glued to each from the time she started there last July until Matthew left before Christmas. He does see her once in a while on Saturdays. He loves blondes, what can I say. He will have some fast toddler talking to do though if/when AG sees this...LOL

No more new photos for now, we have Passover dinner (seder) with the family next week and I hope to snap some group shots of the kids and all of us together. I'm trying to get to San Diego or Palm Springs for a weekend also before I leave for the Barbie Convention in Kansas City mid June so I'll post more recent of picks of Matthew. Our third and next to last PPR (post placement report) is due in Russia May 16th so we better get the house ready for our social worker. Right now it looks like a daycare blew up.

St. Patrick's Day & Easter

2008-03-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Matthew dressed up in a green and white polo shirt for St. Paddy's Day along with his Shamrock hat thingy and green beads. Looked like a little Russian Leprechaun if I ever saw one...LOL

The previous weekend we had lunch at the mall and we were walking by the Easter Bunny at the mall when Matthew broke away from us and ran to the front of the line (yes...other's were waiting) and pushed one child out of his way but did say "excuse me...beep beep" and jumped in the Easter Bunny's lap. We felt obligated at that point to purchase a picture which is why he is dressed in very non-easter/holiday attire. I can't wait to pull this picture out and tell the embarassing story when he's about 16 and brings home his hockey team.

Purim Carnival with Gamma & Poppa

2008-03-29T10:16:00.000-07:00

The beginning of March we took Matthew to the Purim Carnival at Temple Judea in Tarzana with Grandma (Gamma) and Grandpa (Poppa) for an afternoon of rides, face painting, games and of course....eating! Matthew had a great time and even posed for some pictures.

Spring has Sprung!

2008-03-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

Matthew is enjoying Spring time in SoCal. Beginning of March was the first non-wet or windy weekend so we went to the backyard for some at home outdoor play and Matthew helped fill up the bird feeders.

The really funny part was when the birds figured out it was feeding time in the Wess backyard and many birds landed on the various feeders to munch away. Matthew sat at his picnic table waiting and watching and then told them they were eating too much and chased them away.

Filling up bird feeders is hard work you know!

Happy Valentines Day 2008

2008-02-14T22:50:00.000-08:00

There was a small party with 4 kids today at Alithea's house. Matthew had a blast.

2 girls that couldn't get enough attention from him and a 1 year old that kept to himself.

Yes...Matthew aka Pimp Daddy Matt aka Hugh Hefner Jr. had a really good time.

Between heart shaped hamburgers for lunch and Valentine cupcakes for an afternoon snack, what more could a toddler ask for.

The Prince of Mardi Gras

2008-02-06T21:47:00.000-08:00

The Lovee of Matthew's Lifee sent him a Mardi Gras Prince t-shirt and beads from New Orleans. He would wear them every day if he could...yes, I mean the beads (sigh).

Matthew is getting stronger and heavier now. Still a size 2T or smaller from the waist down but quickly approaching a 3T on top. Just got into 3T 1piece Jammies with room to grow.

His hair is getting a bit darker, the blonde is nearly gone.

Talks up a storm, you can understand just about everything he says now, especially when he's screaming it directly into your ear. Potty training is moving along. Slowly but it's moving forward, he likes to wear pull ups. He can count to eleven, knows his colors and shapes and is even trying to color within the lines with his crayons. We tried to work on "opposites" tonight using the Thomas the Train book...he looked at me like I was nuts.

We're about to hit a new milestone next month. We are going away for a night without him. We've both never been away from him for an entire night. We're betting we'll miss him a lot more than he'll miss us.

Russian Christmas Party 01.05.2008

2008-01-22T22:07:00.000-08:00

Pictures from our 2nd annual Russian Christmas Party with other Parents and Children from our SoCal Adoption group. This is the REAL Matthew.....LOL By the way, that's a "crown" on his head not a turban.

We have a great group of kids. We try to get together about once a month.

P.S. He's at the top of the stairs next to the "Snow Maiden".

More Christmas 2007

2008-01-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

Home pictures of Christmas Time 2007

Merry Christmas

2007-12-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Matthew's Big Birthday Bash!

2007-12-18T23:14:00.000-08:00

On Sunday November 18th, Matthew and 13 of his friends arrived at Kids Funtown in Montrose CA for 2 1/2 hours of non stop playing and eating. He and everyone else had a great time. I think some of the parents had as much fun as the kids!

Click on any picture to bring it full size on your screen.

Matthew is 3 years old!

2007-11-18T07:40:00.000-08:00

Happy 3rd Birthday to Matthew Solomon Wess.

November 17th of this year marks Matthew's 3rd birthday and also the date represents we have now had Matthew 1 day longer than the Orphanage had him.

His "really big" party is in a few hours and he is so excited!

Here is his official birthday picture. I will post some of his party as soon as I can.

Happy Halloween 2007

2007-11-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

The REAL Dr. McDreamy

Santa Ana Zoo 9-30-07

2007-09-30T22:34:00.000-07:00

We met up with our Adoption Group today at the Santa Ana Zoo. Matthew had a blast running around and seeing and recognizing more of his friends. He will form lasting friendships with much of this group as they all pretty much have the same beginnings and it's important he makes friends aside from the one's he is with everyday at Nursery School as who knows if they will go to preschool, Kindergarten or grade school together. The Santa Ana Zoo is small, only about 20 acres and absolutely perfect for the under 6 crowd and you can do the entire park including feeding the animals, playing, eating your lunch and going on the train ride within 2 hours.

Bowling Party 9-16-07

2007-09-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

Matthew (and we) attended his cousin Sam's 5th Birthday party at a private bowling Alley. Matthew loved it as evidenced by these pics. He elected to spend as much time as possible with his favorite person in the whole world....his Grandpa (Papa as he calls him).

LA County Fair! 9-1-07

2007-09-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

Matthew went to the Fair last year too but it was a bit much for him. This year he had a blast!

Played with several Thomas & Friends play tables, met some really cool firemen, went on rides, fed the goats and won some prizes! Oh, and he rode in style too.

Del Mar August 25, 2007

2007-09-01T22:48:00.000-07:00

We did our annual trek down to Del Mar Racetrack last weekend.

Matthew lasted for 2 races until I had to find the tunnel and walk him to the infield where he could run around a play. Here's a picture of him eating a hot dog, he takes the dog out of the bun and then takes alternate bites...the kid is just plain weird sometimes. Another on a pony ride next to the backstretch and another on the volleyball sand court. He hads lots of fun!

Firehouse #149 visit on August 18, 2007

2007-09-01T22:39:00.000-07:00

Matthew LOVES anything and everything to do with Fire Engines or as he shouts "Firetuck Firetuck!" A couple of Saturday's ago Brian took him to visit our local Firehouse in Castaic and the Firemen were more than happy to give Matthew a private 1 hour tour including explaining everything on the Fire Engine and Paramedic Truck and letting him talk on the headset live with another fireman and try on a real fireman helmet and coat. There were 19 pics in all, too many to post but if you want, email me and I will send you the link to view them all.

Summer Birthday Parties 2007

2007-09-01T22:32:00.000-07:00

We've got Matthew here at Emily's 12th birthday (swim) party with his 3 best pals, Jessamyns 3rd Birthday party with his friend "M" and Grandpa "Papa" Hal's 79th Birthday dinner at Tam O'Shanter. Matthew enjoys "happy cake" as often as possible. Check out the picture of Matthew with his buddy "J". Notice how Matthew has to stick his entire hand into his mouth to eat a bite of cake? I guess you had to be there or are used to watching toddlers "feed" themselves.

Picnic with Russian friends July 28, 2007

2007-09-01T22:21:00.000-07:00

About every 1-2 months, our SoCal Eastern European Adoption group tries to get together so the kids can get to know each other since they have so much of their beginnings the same from Russian, Ukraine and/or Kaz. It gives the Moms and Dads a chance to get to know each other also as we are linked by our children's heritage as we try to keep it alive in them also. I forgot to take pictures when we met up the beginning of June which would have marked the one year anniversary of our meeting with this group when Matthew was home only 2 weeks. The end of July we met again for a nice picnic dinner and kids played like crazy. I believe this is the 4th or 5th event Matthew has attended with the group in the past 13 months with many more to follow. We've got another picnic, zoo visit and halloween party with the group lined up over the next 2 months. Here are a few pics from the last picnic/playdate the end of July.

Matty's First Circus!

2007-07-24T21:43:00.000-07:00

Matthew got to go see his first Circus on Sunday July 22nd. Since Brian was still in the hospital I took a family friend with us that Matthew is very fond of and she was a huge help in keeping tabs on him. Before the Circus we went onto the arena (Staples Center) floor to meet the performers as they warmed up. All performers were friendly and Matthew charmed ALL the girls as you can see in the above pics.

Oops...forgot a picture or two

2007-07-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

I talked about it but forgot to upload the picture of Matty and I on a walking trail.

Since I'm uploading here is a picture of the wagon he liked also in the "canyon" at the resort. No you couldn't walk down there. They tried to create a mini Alamo at the resort. I'm sure native Texans weren't impressed but we sure were.

I know I look wiped out in the picture with my cowgirl hat. I was! I was surviving on 3 hours sleep and our 3rd hotel room in 12 hours. Oh and the pink balloon...Matty snagged that from some unsuspecting lady in a hallway.

Matty does Dallas!

2007-07-04T17:27:00.000-07:00

We just returned from the 2007 annual Barbie Convention at the Gaylord Texan Resort on Lake Grapevine. Matthew enjoyed himself quite a bit and with so many Barbie collectors milling about, he was a huge hit! Matthew grabbed my cowgirl hat but did turn it around so the crystal tiara wasn't showing. He loved being "outside" and flirting shamelessly with girls aged 2 to 92!

There is a picture of Matthew and I on one of the walking trails within the resort at night and then 2 of the resort. Matthew loved the fountain and the guitar with the choo choo train. Most of all...the little Czar loved room service!

I promised to post more pics soon. It is 4th of July and hopefully the fireworks will come out this year and not just a giant blur.

1 year Anniversary with Matthew!

2007-05-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

You can call it "GOTCHA DAY" anniversary or "FAMILY DAY". Which every way you slice it, as of May 16th Matthew has been officially ours for 1 year! He will celebrate his 1 year as an American Citizen on May 24th.

He has grown so much! He looks nearly double in size since he toddled off the Aeroflot jet at LAX. He no longer a baby, almost not a toddler. He's a little boy now. He has accomplished so much in the past year.

He talks constantly (unless he goes into his fake shy mode briefly)

He climbs, runs, jumps, somersaults, walks fast frontwards and backwards

Lives on his bike, scooter and in his sand box

In the morning he nows gets up and plays in his room, no crying or calling Mommy. Not sure if I like that one yet.

Has the motor skills of a 4 year old

Loves to draw, paint and make things. Very artsy so far.

Loves to give hugs and kisses

Will "high five" with the guys

He's doing well in Nursery School/Day care. Denise taught pre-school for many years so she knows when the little guys are ready for a challenge. She's wonderful with the kids and Matthew just loves her. He does however get plenty of "time outs", the Russian temper is alive and well inside him.

We had our 2nd Post Placement Report (PPR) done recently (4 are required by Russia) and our social worker thinks Matthew is doing just fine too. I couldn't believe Matthew would barely open his mouth the entire time. Became a total chatterbox the moment he left.

Not doing so hot on the potty training front. He was off to a good start on his own determinism but when he went in for surgery on April 13th (now fully recovered) he really had no interest afterwards. We'll get him going again. I'd like to have him telling me more BEFORE he goes instead of telling me AFTER. I'm traveling to Texas with him alone the end of June (Barbie Convention) so I'm hoping he gets more into it.

Time to go make him crepes with fresh strawberries. I'll try to update more often, I've really slipped lately.

Love,
Debi, Brian and Matthew aka the little monster

Mother's Day

2007-05-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, my first Mother's Day. Missed it by 2 days last year as we were flying from Moscow to Siberia so at least I was closer to being a Mommy then than I was in 2005.

Matthew and Brian took me to brunch at my favorite cafe here in Castaic, Lollie's Bakery. The owner loves Matthew so thankfully we don't get snippy looks when he decides to run around into the kitchen or rearrange a section of the restaurant.

By the way, Matthew thinks he's a little rock star when he wears his sunglasses or has he calls them "gees".

I have many more fun Mother's Days to look forward to in the years to come.

Sea World over Easter Weekend

2007-04-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took Matthew to Sea World for the first time. He loved Shamu the most, calling it the "big fishy". He also loved the Manatees, they do sort of grow on you. We bought a season pass so we can go back a few time before the end of the year. Matthew loves fish as much as he does horses. Since they have Anheiser Busch Clydesdales there now he was in heaven.

Enjoy the pics, if I ever figure out how to get the video from my camera into my computer I will capture some stills that are even better!

10 months!

2007-03-15T22:36:00.000-07:00

Friday marks 10 months that Matthew has been with us. It's getting harder to remember what life was like without him. It was certainly calmer and quieter but we wouldn't change a thing.

Matthew will be 28 months old on Saturday. He is up to 25+ pounds, is wearing 24 month shirts and one pieces. Still has narrow hips so he can still wear most 12 mo size pants and shorts. He talks non-stop and he is getting more understandable each day. His visits with Grandpa every Sunday are very special to him, he loves his Grandpa very much. In fact, this past Sunday when he bumped his head he ignored Mommy & Daddy and went straight to Grandpa to fix his booboo. Grandpa gave him a kiss and hug and he was as good as new. Here are some pics of what he made us at nursery school for Valentines Day and also at the park this past Sunday.

Happy Spring everyone!

9 months today!

2007-02-16T21:32:00.000-08:00

Prince Charming has now been ours for 9 months today!

Seems like yesterday we were standing nervously in front the judge in the small city of Tobolsk in Siberia requesting to adopt him and yet it seems he's always been ours.

Here is the Prince with his Valentine shirt on. More recent pictures to follow when I get a chance.

8 months today!

2007-01-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

8 months ago today, Matthew became ours forever. This was taken in Grandpa Hal's hospital room on New Year's Day. Not really a baby anymore, he's a little boy with a love of life and people and FOOD! Time flies when you're having fun. Girls from ages 9 months to 90 years old are dropping at his feet already. Oops...AG isn't going to like hearing that. LOL

Christmas morning

2006-12-25T13:09:00.000-08:00

Matthew carefully climbing downstairs, unaware of what is waiting.

Wow! Santa left lots of cars and stickers in the stocking Grandma Joan knitted for him.

Enoying a cookie and presents left by Santa.
The Hummer which is very cool and very LOUD was a gift from Uncle Mark & Aunt Shellie.

Christmas morning con't....

2006-12-25T13:02:00.000-08:00

All tuckered out! Time for a nap before we go to Disney on Ice!

Almost Christmas

2006-12-25T12:53:00.000-08:00

"Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse..."

Here are two studio shots taken on December 10th.

Here is what Santa set up for Matthew on Christmas Eve.
Santa was very happy that Matthew left him Tollhouse Cookies and a Margarita!
The kid made out like a bandit, I think he now has enough toys and gadgets to fill up the Toddler playroom at the "Big House".

The "Terrific" Two's!

2006-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

Sorry this is a bit out of sequence but since we changed over to internet explorer 7.0 and the Time Warner change from Comcast, programs were disappearing, changing etc. Had to uninstall and reinstall several and of course Blogger finished their beta testing and all users had to switch to the new version and anyone who knows me will attest that I don't take to "changes" well. Anyway....here is Matthew's official 2 year old portraits. Looks so sweet doesn't he?

Meeting Santa round #2

2006-12-24T08:39:00.000-08:00

This time we went to the Mall. Santa was wise to keep a grip on the hockey stick that Matthew insists on taking everywhere when wearing his LA Kings jersey. Of course if Matthew understood scores/standings, he would be wearing a Ducks jersey or based on the game yesterday perhaps Nashville? (LA Kings 0 vs. Nashville 7).

Santa asked Matthew what he would like for Christmas. Matthew's standard answer..."No" and jumped off Santa's lap and ran over to Bombay Kids where he made a beeline for the Air Hockey table.

Happy Hanukkah!

2006-12-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

Matthew's first Hanukkah, Menorah & Dreidel.

Meeting Santa round #1

2006-12-09T21:50:00.000-08:00

The Castaic food pantry hauls Santa around the neighborhood every year. This was Matthew's first time on Santa's lap. He was not amused. He wanted the bag of candy and stuffed reindeer, no time to pose for pictures. He's also wondering what's in that giant green sack in the back of the sleigh. We're trying the mall Santa tomorrow. May the force be with me!

Thanksgiving 2006

2006-12-09T21:39:00.000-08:00

Matthew celebrated his first Thanksgiving. He had one bite of Turkey and then ate plenty of mashed potatoes and green beans. He had a bit of cranberry sauce and then an entire slice of Banana Cream Pie. Obviously he was saving the best for last. Here are some pictures of him enjoying the afternoon/evening.

Happy 2nd Birthday-part 2

2006-11-19T21:00:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night we had a family birthday dinner for Matther and his Grandma Eileen. They were born on the same day! We dined at Buca di Beppo's in Valencia and then had a wonderful "combined" birthday cake. Here are just a few pictures and Matthew loves his "bike" from Grandma and Grandpa.

Happy 2nd Birthday-part 1

2006-11-19T18:48:00.000-08:00

We had a fun party at Matthew's nursery school on his actual birthday Friday. Denise was gracious enough to let us trash her kitchen (kidding) so the kids could sing, play, eat cake and watch Matthew open presents. He never did get the hang of the "blow out" party favor, there's always next year...

6 months since Court!

2006-11-16T21:55:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures showing updated pictures of Matthew. It was 6 months ago today we had court in Tobolsk Russia and judge waived the 10 days and we took custody of our baby boy. As you can see, he's grown up quick. Here he is with his "girlfriend" visiting from out of town but they started out together in the same orphanage. We took them out to lunch and then let them run wild at a children's gym. Another picture is out to dinner with our friends and they took a picture of the 3 of us. Last picture was taken today at work when my co-workers generously threw Matthew a birthday party 1 day early. He had birthday cake for the first time ever. The picture to my left is the outdoor set they bought for him.

Happy Halloween!

2006-11-04T01:06:00.000-08:00

Superman before and after trick or treating for the first time. Took him about 30 seconds to get the hang of it. I think he charmed the candy out of the neighbors bowls into his bucket in record time. Only went to 12 houses and it was over flowing. It got heavy for him but being Superman he insisted on carrying the full bucket himself.

So....how many licks to the center of a tootsie pop?

Pumpkinliner 2006

2006-11-04T00:54:00.000-08:00

There is a very old town about 19 miles from us by the name of Fillmore. They have a few real locomotive trains that take short trips. They have an annual Halloween/Pumpkin patch train ride called the Pumpkinliner. It is run by the Fillmore & Western Rail Road. This is Matthew's first real train ride and some pictures once we got to the pumpkin patch. He had a blast. My niece Rachel was sweet enough to spend the day with us and give us that "extra hand" with Matthew. She is not only his cousin but his only babysitter (outside of nursery school) so she is very special to him. Matthew refused by the way to stand correctly in the ghost cut out so that is why he is a witch, check out the look on his face (double left click to enlarge any photo)....stop giggling CT!

GO KINGS GO!

2006-11-04T00:30:00.000-08:00

Matthew made his first ever trip to Staples Center to watch the Los Angeles Kings (Hockey) square off against the Anaheim Ducks. The Kings lost during the shoot out in OT, no great surprise. Check out the look on Matthew's face. Also here is a pic of the legend himself...Gordie Howe!

Lombardi Ranch 2006

2006-10-29T07:34:00.000-08:00

Matthew's school went on a field trip to the Lombardi Ranch in Bouquet Canyon. They grow pumpkins and corn, have plenty of animals in the petting zoo and have a little "train ride" that goes around the ranch. Here is Matthew enjoying the day with his buddies..until he went off to try to climb a tree.

Vist to Aberdeen

2006-10-28T22:51:00.000-07:00

This was Matthew's first visit to Washington to meet my sister and her kids. My birth mother has never met Matthew so she was excited (you'd never know it from the look on her face) to meet her newest grandson. He had a blast at my sister's house, I think she has every toy ever created, a kid's dream come true backyard and living room! I bet he gets a Sit 'N Spin for his birthday, he can forget the Power Wheels Jeep for now...LOL

PS Matthew has discovered vending machines. I guess I may as well take him to Chuck E Cheese soon. If he's going to nickel and dime me it may as well be somewhere I actually like.

Home 5 months today!

2006-10-24T17:14:00.001-07:00

It's almost a distant memory and then feels like yesterday. 5 months ago at this moment we had arrived at LAX from Moscow and were going through immigration with Matthew. I will post more recent pictures this weekend. Here is Matthew getting his haircut for 2nd time about 2 weeks ago. He was so good too!

2nd Doctor Visit

2006-09-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

On Friday September 29, 2006, Matthew had his second official visit with Dr. Sherman.
He is now 22 months old. As of yesterday Matthew is now 23 lbs and 33 3/4 inches tall. He is growing. Not fast but consistent. Dr. Sherman is very happy with his progress in all areas. Matthew is climbing, running, jumping and now walking up and down the stairs holding onto the handrail. A sign of independence for him and another reason for me to clutch my heart.
Since the vaccination records from the "Big House" were incomplete Dr. Sherman is re-doing all of them. Yesterday was round 2 of 3. 4 shots yesterday and one blood test. He is doing better with this round, ran a fever last night and a low one today but running around like crazy. I'm in the processs of redoing my Wizard of Oz room/office so I just took this picture of Matthew a few minutes ago.

Go Dodger Blue!

2006-09-24T21:52:00.000-07:00

Matthew's first time at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
He had more fun with the Dodger Dog than he did watching the game but when the beach ball came bouncing by he loved it. He also was entertained by the "wave" as it went by and all of the applauding. He of couse assumed everyone was applauding him. He did have 15 seconds of fame. He was on the huge screen in right field for about 15 seconds while the entire stadium "ooohed and aahed" over him. Where was Mommy? In the bathroom of course, missed everything.

He continues to do well in Nursery school/daycare and loves it.
He is now starting to put together 2 word sentences. Unfortunately I cannot repeat any of them other than "Go bye-bye". I must watch my language while driving.

LA County Fair

2006-09-14T23:28:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 9/9/06 we took Matthew to the LA County Fair in Pomona.
When we first got there I won him a Curious George stuffed toy at an arcade game (tossing ping pong balls into floating glass flat ashtrays, I know you are feelng my pain right now). You'd think he at least try to look happy. Oops, forgot to pull down his sunshade hence the "look".

He loved the retired Racehourse outside of the Fairplex, I think the horse sort of liked him too. He was one of the few children the horse did not turn around and ignore. I think his name was Over the Moon or something like that. Been retired for 16 years.

King of the World...no other words needed.

If you click on any picture it will enlarge to full view and make it clearer than this size on the post.

Matthew "Van Gogh" Wess

2006-09-14T23:24:00.000-07:00

Creations by Matthew.
Not bad for 21 months!
Next time I'll get a picture of him wearing his smock, holding his paintbrush and looking just so serious.

Hmmm....anyone else agree he favorite color seems to be red?

Los Angeles Zoo

2006-09-14T22:59:00.000-07:00

Matthew's first visit to the zoo was a field trip on 9/1/06 with his nursery school/daycare group. Here are just a few pics of his loving every moment. We hope to take him back soon and get pictures of him and the animals in the same shot. He shocked everyone by pointing to a goat shortly after they arrived there and shouting "GOAT!". I don't recall seeing any goats in Russia near the Big House but what do I know. He also loved the Giraffes, they have a new baby one there newly arrived.

Matthew goofing around

2006-09-01T22:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of Matthew on top of a giant frog and pictures of him playing on and under the slide at the Mall. Just MattMan goofing around...

Del Mar & Grandpa's Birthday

2006-09-01T22:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday August 26, 2006 we took Matthew to Del Mar for his first ever "Day at the Races". Although he had a runny nose he had a good time. Loved the horses parading back and forth prior to post, loved the hot dog and nachos and most of all....the tractors in between races.

On Tuesday August 29, 2006 we went to dinner with Grandpa Hal and here are some pictures of Matthew with Grandpa and also of Matthew, Daddy (Brian) and Grandpa (Hal).

Mimi's Cafe

2006-09-01T22:25:00.000-07:00

On Thursday night, August 24th, Matthew and Anna Grace along with their parents had dinner for one last time for a while. Our friends are going to their home state to move into their new house so while they will be sorely missed, we are happy for them. M and AG thoroughly enjoyed their evening, we hope to do it again as soon as they come out West again

Until then, lots of hugs and kisses to P, C and AG!

Just me and my girl...

2006-09-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

On Sunday August 20, 2006 Matthew and Anna Grace had an official date! They had their photos professionally taken, went out to lunch and played together. Here are pictures of the fun and memories in the making...

Watermelon Festival 2006 part 2

2006-08-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Don't ask! I don't have a clue want I did wrong to warrant 2 separate posts on the same event but I don't have JK glued to me when I'm posting so there you go. As I was saying....Matthew enjoyed the petting zoo however he enjoyed his hot dog, bright lights and Mommy (yes, Mommy not Daddy this time) winning him a stuffed Tiger on one of the arcade games. I can't believe how blonde he is getting. Now if his eyes turn green or blue I'm really going to freak out. When we met this little bugger, he he had dark brown hair and eyes. Could it possibly be true that lots of love, good nutrition and sunshine make that much of a difference? It sure does with our little Prince.

Until next time, enjoy the pics of the Prince!

Watermelon Festival 2006 part 1

2006-08-17T21:52:00.000-07:00

On Sunday 8/13 we took Matthew to the 45th annual Watermelon Festival in Sunland/Tujunga. I mainly wanted Matthew to see the petting zoo and bright lights. He enjoyed everything the 2 hours we were there. They actually ran out of free watermelon right as we got there. Matthew settle for a hotdog and Brian and I split a lemon/watermelon icee thingy from Buon Gusto something or another.

Here are some pictures of Matthew in the petting zoo, he loved the ponys but couldn't get a picture quick enough.

Matthew & Miss Anna Grace

2006-08-17T21:40:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday 8/9/06 Matthew and Anna Grace finally saw each other again since Matthew left the "Big House" on 5/16/06 in Siberia. The reunion wasn't as warm and fuzzy as Chesley and I had envisioned (well, me anyway) it worked out well. The Daddys got to meet and us Mommies got to have our long awaited and much deserved cocktails together finally toasting our children being home. M and AG are a very cute pair. The more they see each other the more they will want to see each other. Personally I wish they lived across the street but if we see them 2-3 times per year that is a gift also. We Mommies really held each others hands through our adoptions between trips 1 and 2 and for that we will forever be linked. Makes only sense that M and AG should get married someday and buy their Mommie's adjoining beachfront Condos on Maui.

We are getting the kiddos together this Sunday for pictures, lunch and lots of playing...wish us luck! Here are some pics from The Cheesecake Factory in Woodland Hills. You probably can't tell from these pictures but once we arrived and requested 2 high chairs we were seated in the back of the restaurant furthest away from civilization.

Matthew is 21 months old today!

2006-08-17T21:05:00.000-07:00

Matthew turned 21 months old today and this means he's been ours forever for 3 months and 1 day. The longer we have him, the less I remember about what it was like without him. He got sent home from Nursery school Monday after lunch. No he wasn't fighting or anything. He came down with a fever so Brian went to get him and take him to Dr. Sherman. Diagnosed as a Viral Infection (yes I totally over reacted) and we treated him with Motrin and Tylenol and extra hugs and kisses. He was up and running around by yesterday afternoon. I took him back to school today after sitting on the freeway for nearly 3 hours (victim of the B & J Wine cooler incident on the 5 freeway at Magic Mountain Parkway). He ran right in like he owned the place and didn't even tell Mama goodbye.

Little Man completed week 5 of Nursery School on Friday and did draw one additional picture (used 2 colors this time) and assisted in planting shrubs. He's doing well under the supervision of Denise and Tara and I thank God for those 2 angels every day.

He now weighs a whopping 22 1/2 pounds!

Fire Chief Wess

2006-08-05T23:46:00.000-07:00

These are from the photo shoot on Sunday July 30th. He is being entered into their annual "fresh face" contest in which the winner will become the Face of Picture People across the country. I think he looks quite handsome in his Fire Chief outfit but then again Mommy has always had a thing for a man in uniform....prison jumpsuit excluded.

All kidding aside, he was much better at holding a pose for more than half a second this time around. I can't wait to send more pictures to his old orphanage via courier so they can see how much he's grown and how happy he truly is. His girlfriend from the "big house" AG is arriving in town with her Mommy and Daddy today. They are here for 3 weeks. Can't wait to see these two together again. Matthew spent 14 months of his life with this beautiful baby girl and when he sees pictures of her he squeals with delight. Her Mommy and I are going to do a few Mommy & Me things with the kids while they are here including getting their pics taken together. With any luck this can become an annual or semi-annual event depending how often they can visit.

Big Boy Bathtub Fun

2006-08-05T23:39:00.000-07:00

Matthew has graduated from his infant/toddler tub on the counter (it is fairly large) to the regular bathtub in the bathroom across from his bedroom. He absolutely loves it! He thinks it's a heated lap pool. He splashes to his hearts content and I barely have to scrub him down at all anymore. He is a big boy now. Just ask him...he'll tell you.

I have more pics that are unedited that I am saving for when he brings his first serious girlfriend home from High School. Don't mess with Mommy!

Week 4 of Nursery School

2006-08-05T23:27:00.000-07:00

This past week went by very fast. Matthew appears to be doing well, he enjoys being with the other kids and the structure which is so important. This week they did two art creations. On Thursday they decorated a Strawberry face mask (yes he took a bite out of it!) and on Friday it was a free form drawing. Don't make fun of Matthew's masterpiece just yet. I think the green on white drawing looks just like the planter under Denise's kitchen window from Matthew's point of view. I'm just happy he drew something with the crayon instead of eating it. Denise has also posted a weekly progress chart on the wall. Matthew had 1 green mark which means he did something really well or did something exactly how he was supposed to when he was supposed to. Could have been worse, he could have had several red markers which unfortunately I believe are in his future based on his behavior when I picked him up last night. Onward to week #5! Go Matthew!!!