We don't think he was in Oregon in December of 2005, but our young man here sure looks like Artie Lange. This picture mildly emphasizes his weight problem when he first came to live with us. (Artie Lange by the way is a 300 pound comedian on the Howard Stern show.) 
This is around the first time we bathed him. I can't remember if this is the actual first time or maybe the third or fourth. We were so overwhelmed the first few times, I'm sure we never thought to photograph it. It wasn't long after this that I cut my hair. Brandon's grip is quite strong and my head is quite tender.
So this is the day we all decided to really finally do it, to take Brandon home. His cousin brought him by and again asked if Devon and I were interested in adopting him. Her house was quite full already and taking on an extra baby was more than she had planned for at this stage. She had talked to the birth-mother and they both agreed that if Devon and I were interested that we could start the process. Easier said than done, I assure you. Once I held him, I wasn't letting go, and I think his family had thought they had a few days for it to sink in before they turned him over. We tried to make it gradual and we still communicate with his birth family as time permits. We have a great picture that I call Brandon's 5 mommies. I think that Devon isn't as fond of that label as I am, but it is of his birth-mom, cousin and her girlfriend who were his legal guardians for some time, and Devon and I. I will post it if I get their permission.
This is the first time I met Brandon. His cousin brought him to the office and let me feed him. Who knew at that time that we would be so fortunate to get to see him grow up. I really want to thank his birth-mom, Jennifer, for allowing us this opportunity. It's a generous gift on her part, and we promise to take the best care of our precious new son.
