The day after Arun’s birthday, and the day before Nikole’s, they headed to the hospital for a routine checkup on their soon-to-be-born baby girl. And the doctor told Nikole it was time. Then. They were going to meet Alani that very day.

So they were sent upstairs at Halifax Hospital for what the doctors called “prep.” But how can parents ever truly prepare to meet their very heart?

Just a few days later, after Nikole and Arun brought little Alani home, I went to meet her, too.I already knew how much I loved Nikole and Arun. So it was no surprise that I fell for their daughter. And their four-legged kids, Simon and Faith.The dogs aren’t entirely sure how they feel about the newcomer who has clearly usurped their place of honor. But Grandma was there to make everyone feel special.Could they be any sweeter?The pups weren’t quite as sleepy as Alani. And they posed just perfectly.I love little baby lips. And fingers and toes and ears and noses.Nikole and Arun, I can’t tell you how excited I was to meet Alani, and to share this sweet afternoon in your new life as a family. I simply cannot wait to watch your baby girl as she grows up — but not too fast. She’s perfect just the way she is.

~ Laura