Daniel is one of Taro’s childhood friends and I was fortunate to witness his marriage to Darbi.  I remember their wedding ceremony like it was yesterday – the giant smile on Darbi’s face, her offering Daniel a tissue when it looked like he might shed a tear during the ceremony, the funny, sentimental speech made by Daniel’s brother, the gorgeous attire during the lion dance performance and the anticipation and silence as the performers jumped on each others’ shoulders, and just the overall excitement that two individuals found in each other.  Darbi is Daniel’s perfect match, his “little elf” as his brother described her.

So it was very exciting news when Taro and I found out that Darbi was pregnant.  We learned this news at Paul’s wedding  in June 2009.  Before Daniel said anything, I happened to notice that Darbi was fondly resting her hands on her belly, occasionally rubbing it ever so gently.  I did not want to say anything just because it could have been a multitude of things.  What if she just was not feeling good?  But there was this look – that look of contained excitement (in order not to draw attention to herself), protection, and unconditional love.  And then they announced it to us and I said, “I had a feeling, but didn’t want to say!”  When I explained what I noticed, I could see the giddiness come out in the couple.

What was even more exciting than hearing the news was the birth and arrival of Daphni.  Pictures were posted online and friends commented on the little bundle of joy.  So before I even met this baby girl in person, I watched her grow within the first month through photos.  I could not wait to meet her and when I finally did, she looked just as adorable as in the pictures.

At the one month party, Daphni was fascinated by the lights and people, observing everything around her and even falling asleep in the arms and shoulders of family and friends.  She is definitely something special.  Congratulations, Daniel and Darbi!  Taro and I are excited for the two of you and we cannot wait to watch Daphni grow into a beautiful, young woman.

You can see the love in Darbi’s face when she looks at her baby girl.  It is just too precious!

Pictures of Daphni with her daddy:

I was able to reconnect with Tina, a friend from the days when we were lifeguards at Barnes Park in Monterey Park,  at Daniel and Darbi’s wedding.  At the wedding, her daughter was still in a stroller and now, she, aka “Frog,” is a little girl.  She is adorable!

One last shot of the birthday girl, happily falling asleep: