New Year’s baby arrives

While the term “New Year’s Baby” might not be entirely appropriate for Whitman County’s newest addition, Stephen Tisdel has nonetheless earned the New Year Baby title and taken home a red wagon of goodies.

Stephen was born Jan. 22 to Riley Tisdel, 25, and Sarah Bond, 19, at seven pounds, nine ounces, at Whitman Hospital and Medical Center and was the first baby born at the hospital this year. He is held at left by brother, Sam. He was also an early birthday present for his mom, who will turn 20 on Jan. 31.

Bond’s due date was Jan. 30, so the couple, who live in Tekoa, said they did not think they would have the first baby of the new year at the hospital.

Stephen joins older brother Sam, who is 1-and-a-half. Tisdel said Sam is already enjoying being an older brother.

“He’s doing good. He rubs the head and kisses him,” said Tisdel. “He really likes him.”

Kristie Schindler, obstetrics director at WHMC, pulled birth records dating back to 2000 and discovered that the latest first baby to have been born at the hospital was born Jan. 16, 2002. Stephen now holds the title as the latest first baby.

Tisdel said they arrived at the hospital around 7:30 Friday morning with Bond in labor, and Stephen was born about six hours later around 1:30 p.m.

The family took home the red radio flyer wagon, which included items donated from area businesses. Tisdel said some of the items included clothing, blankets, diapers and toys.