Doctors had told the Tonganoxie couple their child was due Jan. 24.

But Johnathon Michael Carothers had other ideas. The baby was born Jan. 5. The early arrival came as a surprise to the couple, but also meant Johnathon was named the winner of The Mirror’s first baby of the new year contest. The family will receive prizes from The Mirror and a number of other sponsors.

Johnathon weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 19 1/2 inches long. He was born at University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kan.

April said she was excited Johnathon was named the first baby of 2006.