Sleeping baby wins Meridional Baby contest

Owen Noegel learned at an early age that being a model is tiring.

Owen, the 4-month-old son of Clay and Julie Sellers Noegel, went with his mother to a friend’s home to take his first-ever Christmas photos.

Owen was ready and he did great his first few pictures. But as more and more photos were being taken, Owen became more tired. He eventually fell asleep, but that did not stop him from being a model.

His mother propped him on a blanket of fur, moved his hands around to where his face was showing. The Abbeville Meridional’s prize-winning Christmas picture was taken, and Owen nailed the photo even though he did not know it.

His sleeping-photo was voted this year’s top baby photo of 2010.

“The photo is cute,” said his mother Julie. “The only thing I wish that the photo would have showed is his red hair.”

Owen wins a $20 gift certificate from Phil’s Boys and Girls Wear.

Taking home second place is 3-month-old Thomas Barras. His parents are Heidi and Randy Barras.

Tied for third were 8-month-old Emma Katherine (Her parents are Zachary and Jessica Primeaux.) and Kimora Monet Broussard, who is 2 months old. She is the daughter of Jasmine Montgomery and Hanson Broussard of Abbeville.

Capturing the pet picture winner is Apollo, who is a 14-month-old Great Dane. His owner is James Trahan.