Every parent says the same thing; that bringing a new life into this world is indescribable and the love it creates so fierce that nothing can compare to it. Well, with one fell swoop Vivienne Renée Grant emerged into this world at 8:21 am, her small but mighty 4 lb 2 oz body catapulted into our lives, immediately taking control of our hearts with her jet black hair and vigorous scream.

The first contact I had with our little lady was when Dr. Finke raised her up, Vivienne's long limbs stretching out, connecting with every bit of universe that she could find with her fingertips and toes. Her hand reached back towards my face as if searching for me, so I took her palm into my hand, reassuring her that I was there. She was directing me without having to say a thing. She already had me wrapped around her little finger. Literally.

They let her rest peacefully on my chest for a brief minute, but long enough for us to gaze intently. Chris and I couldn't take our eyes off of her. So petite and small, her face so lovely and soft, there couldn't be a more perfect moment. The NICU team quickly evaluated her on my chest and then whisked her away to her exam bed 8 feet away from me. Chris scurried behind her, his eyes never leaving her sight.

The best news was obvious - she didn't need oxygen, she didn't need any of the preliminary things that would suggest lung distress or major problems. She was breathing on her own and existing in this world just fine. They eventually moved her out of the room to the NICU nursery, and Chris followed her there to make sure she arrived safely. It seems a doting father was also born that day.

And there in the NICU she remains until the doctors clear her - to rejoin her family, her puppies, her nursery, her home. We visit with her every day, keeping her company and watching her grow behind her plastic edifice. Her personality already suggests a tolerant yet strong-willed little girl, happy and content to have us as her parents. Yet we are the ones blessed to have her as our daughter.