It's really odd that your application doesn't appear on the USCIS website. Until yesterday, I didn't even realize that there was a receipt number printed on the back of the check. The digital image of the cashed check provided by my bank is not exactly the highest resolution, so I didn't even notice the printout. When I entered the number into the system, I got the "On September 18, 2007, we received...." response. My application actually arrived at VSC on 9/4. Does the fact that my ESC number appears on the site mean that a receipt was issued?
That is a good news. You are close to get into the process in my point of view. Yours is there because you applied almost 1.5 month before I did and I hope you will get all your stuff before I do. I am already depressssss....ed