Mason Lee Kerns is the first baby of the new year at Fauquier Hospital

Mason Lee Kerns made his entrance into the world at 10:59 p.m. Jan. 3, making him the first baby of 2012 to be born at Fauquier Hospital in Warrenton.

His parents, Jennifer Powers of Bealeton and Jason Kerns of Warrenton, said they are "very excited" at the arrival of their 7 lb. 7 oz. son, but are still recovering from the exhaustion of the birth process, which involved induced labor and a last-minute c-section. The two describe their brown-haired, blue-eyed baby as very happy.

"He really doesn't cry much," Kerns said.

The couple, who have been together five years, were surprised to learn their son was the first baby of the new year. "There was no one else in the ward [Tuesday]," Powersl said.

According to hospital staff, the first baby of the year often comes sooner. Last year, three babies were born at Fauquier Hospital on Jan. 1. "I think they were shocked that it took so long," Powers said.

In addition to the notoriety of being county's first baby, Mason Kerns also received a $50 savings bond from Fauquier Health. Mother and baby were expected to go home Thursday.