SALEM — The doctor told mom and dad to expect their baby boy to arrive around 8 p.m. on New Year's Eve.

But Khaivon had other plans. He came into the world at 12:40 a.m. yesterday at Salem Hospital, making him the first baby born locally in 2009.

"It turned out that he just wanted to wait," said Kevon Sem, Khaivon's dad.

"He wanted to be famous," said Thailina Sem, his mom.

He also didn't want the same birthday as his older brother, who was born on Dec. 31 seven years ago.

Because it was her second child, Thailina had expected a relatively quick labor. Her contractions started around 10 a.m. on Wednesday. She traveled with Kevon from their home in Lynn and was admitted to the hospital around 11 a.m.

The Sems expect to bring Khaivon home today. "Everything is all set up at home and decorated," Kevon said, "hopefully to his liking."

After more than 12 hours of labor, the new year brought with it relief at Khaivon's healthy arrival. Khaivon weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 201/2 inches.

It also brought joy. "It was a Happy New Year," he said, "indeed."