Bundle of Joy

I enjoy everyday of life bringing a bundle of surprise, and prepared as I think I may be, it rises up emotions of happiness. The new day is something I look forward to with glee. Now that my philosophical meanderings have been barfed, lets move to the latest piece of news which has brought 'Joy to my world'.
Rakshabandhan is a sacred day on my calendar, and over the years I have either sent a rakhi, or tied it to my brother (sooner or later). He is visiting in September, so I decided to tie the thread personally around his wrist when he comes home. I however tried calling him up a couple of times to wish him on the occassion; getting disappointed each time I was redirected to voice mail.
In the evening, he called and informed me that he had forgotten to carry his cell phone, and missed my call. He was surprised to learn that it was Rakshabandhan today. But the bigger surprise was in store for me.
He asked me if I would like to visit them in December, when their baby, my niece is due to come into the world from the confines of her mother's womb! I went delirious, and said "Of course!" He reasoned that I hadn't got a US visa, and so my next trip there was a long shot, so we have no idea when I will be seeing her. Of course, I am elated, and kept squeeling with joy as I spoke to my parents about this plan.
The reality check of a blistering cold winter, with sub-zero degree tempratures, long nights, sunless days, snow and rainfall have not managed to dampen my happiness of becoming an aunt and seeing the magic of the cycle of life.
Of course, I will take a whole bunch of things for the little one - clothes, hand-embroidered pillows, dolls, toys - a whole truckload of this to make the little princess happy.
I will hold her lovingly, make her curl her delicate fingers around my little finger, gaze at her when she sleeps soundly, try to console her when she cries, before handing her to her mother whose touch will instantly calm her.
I have always dreaded small babies; they are frail and delicate like a petal. It will be the most special thing in my life, and the thought of actually holding her, cooing at her, moistens my eyes.