I used to believe that New Years was the most motivational time for a person to reflect on new beginnings. That belief existed until December 23, 2010, when I was so very blessed to be a witness to the birth of my niece, Adrianna Lynn.

After many hours of helping my sister through labor, I saw life come in to this world firsthand and literally heard her first cries. Moments later, I was asked by my sister and her husband to cut the umbilical cord (By the way I had not expected this assignment). A few hours later, I felt like the most privileged man in the world as little Adrianna buried her head in my chest as she slept.

A couple of days later, I found myself giving her a bottle and learning why it's a good idea to have a towel draped on your shoulder while burping a baby. Meanwhile, I'm afraid to stop supporting her little head because I don't want it to fall off. Next thing I know, I'm assisting in the smelly ritual of the diaper change. What a whirlwind!

Now don't worry. I have not traded my legal column for a child rearing column. So please don't write any questions pertaining to day care. Please also refrain from dropping off your children at our law office for babysitting services.

Rather, I write this article to show how a newborn changes one's life. This isn't even my own child and I'm catching myself making baby sounds and already playing the role of the overprotective uncle. I can only imagine how my sister feels with this overwhelming sense of responsibility.

My sister was already a worrier. Now she worries about an innocent and fragile being that depends on her and her father for everything.

While we pray the future goes smoothly, Christina and her husband need to execute some estate planning in order to protect Adrianna. They need to sign documents that will clearly state who would raise Adrianna if something horrible happened. They also need to predetermine who will handle the finances to make sure Adrianna is provided for and protected. Through proper planning, they can alleviate some of their worries.

Yes, there are so many things to consider. But for now, we just want Adrianna to sleep through the night so that her parents can get some rest. If you are similarly suffering from sleepless nights due to your family's new addition, you may want to meet with an estate planning attorney to make sure your affairs are properly in order.

P.S. Adrianna, thanks for being the absolute best Christmas gift a family could ever receive.