Introducing Theodore Thomas Kedley, Osceola's 'First' Baby

He may not have been the first baby born in the new year, but tiny Teddy Kedley is already “first” in a few special ways.

The first child of Mayor Thomas and Becca Kedley, Theodore Thomas Kedley, was born Friday, December 23 at 8:44 a.m. The baby, who weighed 8 pounds and 10 ounces, was delivered by Dr. Christopher Johnson at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. The baby’s grandparents are Brian and Kathy Evans of Osceola, Joseph Kedley of Clinton, and Barbara Miller of Fulton, Ill. Mayor Kedley works for the city of Osceola and Clarke Community School District. Mrs. Kedley works for Clarke Community School District.

“Becoming a mother has been an incredible journey,” said the new mom. “I could not read enough articles or pin enough on Pinterest to prepare me for the adventure that is bringing a baby into this world.”

Mrs. Kedley was due January 1 but went into labor early. Thankfully, both she and the baby are happy, healthy and thriving.

“Most mothers could tell you that labor isn’t a walk in the park, but all the pain is quickly forgotten as soon as that small bundle of joy is placed on your chest – I didn’t believe this at first, but it is true,” she said.

In the weeks leading up to their baby’s birth, the Kedleys decorated their nursery in a neutral palette of grays, whites and creams, with elements inspired by Dr. Seuss. They didn’t find out beforehand whether their child was a boy or a girl. The new parents wanted to keep it a surprise.

“My favorite president is Teddy Roosevelt, but we were kind of unsure if we were going to name him Theodore or not,” said Mayor Kedley.

Once the couple realized Dr. Seuss was also named Theodore, the name seemed fated for their son.

The Mayor was fortunate enough to get two weeks of paternity leave to bond with the new baby, and it’s been as filled with the practical concerns of caring for a newborn – the nursing, the diapers, creating routines – as it has the shock that comes with welcoming a new life into the world.

“I never thought my heart could grow any fuller than it was, but then I heard his first cry and saw my husband holding our child; my heart grew,” said Mrs. Kedley. “Thomas and I are grateful and lucky for the strong support system we have in our family, friends, and colleagues.”

“Becoming a parent was one of the most joyful and fearful moments of my life,” the new father said. “I am so excited to become a father and to watch my child grow and learn.”