The first babies of 2024 make their grand arrival

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Being that the new year just kicked off, babies are also arriving.

At Decatur Memorial Hospital, couple Allyson and Hayden Damery welcomed their baby boy Carson.

 "We wanted a boy so we were very excited. It feels pretty special where we think it'll be a good memory for him growing up." said Damery.

This is the couples first child, and they couldn't be more excited. They've even started planning for his future.

"We hope for baseball or basketball. We're baseball and basketball people, and his dad likes golf a lot so he would like that too." stated Damery.

Over at Carle Hospital in Champaign, baby Aleaha was born just before 1 a.m.

She'll be welcomed home by her older sister Brooklynn.

But for now, these parents are ready to take their new bundle of joy home.

"We're just excited to get him home. We have our 2 dogs at home so we're excited to see how they react and get him home and just enjoy him." stated Damery.