After weeks of waiting, Nicholas Robert Stokes finally arrived on January 16, 2021, 8 days after his due date. He was a healthy baby, clocking in at 7lbs 1oz and 20 inches. Valerie and Nathan spent 2 nights with Nicholas at the hospital and were discharged on January 18. As soon as they arrived home, they introduced Nicholas to Rocco, who was equally curious and jealous of his new brother (and very tired from doggy daycare).

Nicky's first month went by so fast! Both Valerie and Nathan took time off from work to focus solely on childcare. Days and nights consisted of feeding, changing, burping and sleeping (mostly for Nicky - not as much for Valerie and Nathan). Some of the best moments were spent skin to skin, singing lullabies (Valerie's go-to is John Legend), tummy time, introducing Nicky to his grandmas, his first sponge bath & baby massage, and his first photo shoot. The family also enjoyed a picnic in the park for Nicky's first Valentine's Day.

Over the course of the month, Nicky gained 2lbs! Not only does he eat well, he is also a great sleeper. The "5 S's" work like magic to trigger his calming reflex, with the exception of swaddling and sucking. When Nicky is swaddled, he fights to get his hands out so he can suck on them instead of his pacifier! When he is awake, he loves looking at the high contrast pictures in his new books from his grandma and great auntie Kim. He also loves walks in his stroller and car rides in his car seat (both gifts from his Pop!)