Hoda Kotb adopts baby girl, introduces her on 'Today'

Hoda Kotb has adopted a little girl! The "Today Show" co-host released the first photo of her newborn daughter, Haley Joy, after recently welcoming her into her life. Many fans have noticed that Kotb had been absent from the show last week and that she didn't return to sit opposite her partner in morning-talk-show-crime, Kathie Lee Gifford, this week. Well, now we all know why!

Hoda is overjoyed to become a first-time mom

"She's a Valentine's baby so she's a little nugget. She is the love of my life," Hoda Kotb said while talking to Matt Lauer and friends this morning.

Most of the staff knew about Hoda's precious little secret and were finally able to publicly share in the 52-year-old's baby (Haley) joy! It was a very touching moment for Hoda and her colleagues, all of whom were thrilled to be a part of this morning's big announcement.

As you can see in the picture of Haley Joy below, she is quite tiny, just about one week old.

"I didn't know my heart could feel like this. This is a moment in my life that I never thought would happen and here it is, happening to me," Hoda said.

Well wishes pour in

Fans of Hoda Kotb couldn't be more thrilled for her. This is something that she has always wanted and becoming a mother is something that is so special, especially when a person doesn't think that would ever happen.

"The Today Show" anchors had nothing but wonderful things to say about Hoda's new gig as mom.

"You are going to be one of the most fantastic moms I can ever imagine," said Matt Lauer.

"You are going to be an incredible mother," added Carson Daly.

And, of course, Kathie Lee Gifford is absolutely delighted for her dear friend.

"You were made to be a mom," she said.

What's in a name?

Hoda Kotb chose the name Haley after Haley's comet. She said that she just pictured this little girl "sailing through the sky." As for the baby's middle name, Hoda chose "joy" because of the way the child makes her feel.

"She brings us joy. She’s got a beautiful way about her," she said.

For more on this news, check out the clip from "The Today Show" below.