Five minutes after Abigail is born, the electricity comes on. Five minutes after that, paramedics take over. I grab Lydia's pre-packed travel bag and follow them to the ambulance.
Doctor Pastavich, Lydia's OB/GYN is waiting at the hospital. All our preplanning is out the window, but I'm able to cut the cord. A nurse takes Abigail away so they can check her out thoroughly. Lydia requires stitches and I hold her hand while the doctor works.
A short time later, tightly bundled in a pink blanket, the nurse places Abigail back into Lydia's arms. She's sucking dramatically on her fist and we all smile.
"She's doing wonderfully considering how she made her appearance. A pediatrician looked her over. He'll be in to see you soon. Right now this little one needs to eat." The nurse helps Lydia wit
