Little Leona Rae Palmer was due on her father's birthday, Dec. 31.
"But she wanted to wait a little bit longer," said Daniel Palmer.
California's First Baby was born Jan. 4 at Capital Region Medical Center, Jefferson City, to Palmer and his wife, Lee Ann. Local grandparents are Angie Shane and Ray Shane.
The California business community provides gifts to the first baby family, including a six-month subscription to the California Democrat. Other participating businesses include Burgher Haus, Beauty Bar, Bond Pharmacy, Darrell & Co. Hairstyling, Taylor Tires LLC, Cal's Supermarket, The Flower Shop, Nic Nac Cafe, Pizza Hut, Hawthorn Bank, Portraits by Shawn and Nathans Tire Service LLC.
The Palmers met online through video games in November 2015. Eventually, Daniel moved to Lee Ann's hometown, California.
The Clarksburg couple looks forward to sharing their interests - games, books and sewing - with Leona as she grows.
"She'll be a well-rounded person," Daniel said.
Leona entered the world through emergency C-section with a small infection and jaundice. After five days under blue lights and with an IV, she was ready to come home.
"It was an adventure and a half," Daniel said.
After the complicated delivery, the Palmers brought Leona home to a nursery painted yellow and pink, and themed with Winnie the Pooh.
Her room also features a large crib, which the parents joke she may never sleep in.
And for the young parents, life may never be the same.
"Life's no longer about us," Daniel said. "We're no longer a duo; now, it's two versus one."
After taking some vacation time, Daniel returned to work at Walmart in Jefferson City.
"My first day back from work, I was so happy to see her and glad of the responsibility to take care of her."