3 AM. Sarah: 'Josiah. It's time.' Josiah: already up (slept dressed the last 3 nights — waiting). To midwife: 2 miles. Bessie knows the way (eighth time).
Midwife (Miriam, 60, 400+ deliveries) arrived in 40 minutes. Hot water (on stove — already set). Towels (clean — already laid). Prayer (quiet — already going).
5:47 AM. A boy. 3.8 kg. Crying. Sarah: smiling. Josiah: standing in doorway (men don't belong at birth — tradition). But hears the cry. Exhales. First breath in an hour.
Miriam cut the cord. Washed. Swaddled. Passed to Sarah. 'Healthy. Big. Beautiful.' Josiah entered. Looked. Small face, closed eyes, clenched fists. Eighth child. Eighth miracle.
Name: Moses. After great-grandfather. Three hours later — breakfast. Eggs for 10 people. Life goes on. One more.