Nathaniel Souza’s early arrival to the world has earned him the honour of being the Shuswap’s New Year’s Baby.
Nathaniel was born to parents Katie and William Souza on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 1:36 a.m.
The Souzas’ early morning trip to the hospital was a little unexpected as Nathaniel’s due date was Jan. 15.
“I was hoping to go to bed and he decided he wanted to come,” Katie explained later that afternoon, with a smile reflecting William’s, in the comfort of Shuswap Lake General Hospital’s maternity ward.
Nathaniel was born a healthy 3,030 grams (6 lbs, 1 oz), 49.5 cm (19 inches), and is the Souza’s second child – baby brother to 21-month-old Analeigh Souza.
The Souzas met in the U.S. and currently reside in Salmon Arm, where Katie works as a dental hygienist. The couple said Nathaniel is now the third member of their family with a January birthday.
“My mom’s birthday is on the 17th, Will’s mom’s birthday is on the 14th…,” said Katie.
While the Souzas aren’t expecting any special treatment as parents of the New Year’s Baby, Katie suggested “a bunch of diapers would be sweet.”