DOVER — As the world rang in the new year, Bayhealth welcomed its first two babies of 2024.

At Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus in Dover, baby girl Emery Grace Foster was born to parents Alyssa Novello and Edward “Eddie” Foster of Townsend at 3:09 p.m. Jan. 1. She weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces and was 21 inches.

“2023 was a rough year for our family, so welcoming 2024 with Emery was a much-needed blessing for us. It’s pretty cool to say we have a New Year baby,” said Ms. Novello. “We had a great care team during the delivery, so that makes this moment even better.”

Mr. Foster said Emery was born with a full head of dark hair and long legs.

“I’m just overwhelmed with joy. She’s our first child, and it’s amazing to be called ‘Dad’ for the first time,” he added.

At Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus in Milford, baby boy Richard Marckenly was born at 12:05 p.m. Jan. 1 to parents Pascale Meriscar and Richard Mackendy of Milford. He weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20 inches. Richard joins his big brother as the family’s second child.

His original due date was Jan. 12, so he arrived earlier than expected.

“Thank you to Bayhealth for a very good night (of labor) and delivery; they care for moms and babies really well, and I appreciate that,” said Ms. Meriscar. “We feel really good about going home to meet his big brother.”

Women’s & Children’s Health presented both sets of parents with gift baskets containing thermometers, blankets and other items for new parents.