The pageantry of the first day of the year is always resplendent with the themes of new starts and renewals.

And to drive that home, Aberdeen welcomed Anthony James, born to Alexia Hugelen at 7:14 a.m. on Jan. 1 at Harbor Regional Health Community Hospital.

“He was supposed to be due on the 22nd,” Hugelen said in a phone interview. “I wasn’t surprised that he was late. He’s been stubborn the entire time.”

Anthony James, born to Alexia Hugelen on Jan. 1, hangs out with his big sister Sophia Louise. (Courtesy photo / Bryerlee Perry)

Anthony James, a family name suggested by a cousin, joins his big sister, Sophia Louise, who is five, Hugelen said.

“Very glad he’s here,” Hugelen said. “His big sister adores him.”

The delivery was smooth, Hugelen said, and both she and newborn Anthony went home on Jan. 2. Anthony James, born at 7 pounds and 13 ounces, possesses both an interest in the world around him and a determined attitude, Hugelen said.

“He seems like he’s kinda stubborn, but very curious,” Hugelen said. “He’s trying to learn about everything.”

The hospital also recognized Anthony as first baby of the year, with staff donating gifts to the family, said Chris Majors, the hospital’s director of marketing and public relations, in a news release.

“While we love all the babies born here at Community Hospital the first baby of the year is always very exciting,” Majors said. “To celebrate this amazing occasion, our staff donated a variety of gifts to make a large basket to help Anthony and Alexia’s first days together a little easier.”

Hugelen thanked the staff for their support in the news release.

“We are so happy to welcome Anthony James, and deeply grateful that Alexia chose the Harbor Regional Health Family Birth Center to have her child,” Majors said. “Celebrating Anthony James’ healthy birth is a great way start 2023!”

Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@thedailyworld.com.