BY DAVID FALCHEK

Times-Shamrock Writer

Shannon and Tyler Bixby tried to get out for a bit Saturday to ring in the new year. Instead, they ended up welcoming a new life.

The Bixby’s’ daughter, Chloe, was the first baby of 2012 born inLackawannaCounty, arriving at1:15 p.m.and weighing in at 6 pounds 8 ounces. She is the first child for the Susquehanna couple.

Chloe arrived almost three weeks early, catching her parents off guard as they went out to spend some time with friends as the New Year approached. Mrs. Bixby had been having severe back pain, and within five minutes the couple was headed home.

A few hours later they were atBarnes-KassonHospitalin Susquehanna, concerned about the intensity of Mrs. Bixby’s ‘s pain.

The staff at Barnes-Kasson confirmed that Mrs. Bixby was in labor, and the couple headed toMosesTaylorHospitalinScranton.

“I’m just excited and happy,” said a beaming Tyler Bixby as Chloe slept peacefully in the arms of his mother-in-law, Kathy Clark.

Tyler Bixby, 23, is a landscaper.

Mrs. Bixby, 32, is soon to begin a job as a page designer at the Susquehanna County Transcript.

The family didn’t anticipate having a New Year’s baby, but the distinction hardly matters.

“When they come and they come healthy – I’m happy,” said Tyler Bixby’s mother, Debbie Potter.

Jan. 1 also is an anniversary of sorts for the couple – the date they met.

“It’s going to be easier to remember everything,” Mr. Bixby said.

Potter talked to her son about child rearing and his resolve not to spoil Chloe. After he had the baby in his arms, his mother brought the topic up again.

“I guess I’ll have to spoil her a little,” he confessed.