New Year Brings Joy as First Baby of 2026 Arrives in Barriere

A new chapter begins for the Proulx family as they welcome their second child, a daughter named Vivienne Proulx, born at 8:31 a.m. on January 3, 2026, at Royal Inland Hospital. Vivienne’s arrival makes her the first baby born in Barriere this year, weighing six pounds and 13 ounces.

Parents Morgan and Jordan Proulx expressed their delight over the birth. “It feels really great,” Morgan stated, noting the couple faced fertility challenges before becoming parents again. “We’re really lucky.”

Big sister Katie, aged five, has long awaited the arrival of her sibling. Morgan recounted the moment Katie first met Vivienne, saying, “She was in the bassinet and daddy brought her in, and she was just speechless.” Since learning of their pregnancy, Katie had been eager for a sibling, and now her excitement is palpable.

The family had hinted at a late Christmas gift for Katie, as Vivienne’s due date was January 5. At home, Katie is already taking joy in introducing her stuffed animals to her new sister.

Community and Family Connections

Vivienne and Katie are the fifth generation of Proulxs to grow up in Barriere, a connection that holds special significance for the family. Jordan’s family operates a farm in the area, grounding their roots deep within the community.

The couple praised the care they received at Royal Inland Hospital. “We ended up having to elect for a C-section, so it was a little scary, but they were really nice and it went really well,” Morgan shared. She added that the medical team provided clear explanations throughout the process.

Morgan expressed her surprise and excitement at having Barriere’s first baby of the new year, a distinction that adds an extra layer of joy to their family’s milestone.

Jordan, who works as the supervisor-manager at Gilbert Smith mill, is taking six weeks off work to spend time with Vivienne and the family. As they embrace this new phase, the Proulx family is focused on “soaking it all in” and cherishing these early moments together.

As Katie grows alongside Vivienne, the siblings are set to forge a bond that will evolve over the years, promising shared experiences and cherished memories as they journey through life together.