Walking around the zoo

The most exercise I've got recently is walking around the L.A. Zoo with the kids.

I'm not a big fan of zoos. They sadden me a bit, to see all the animals all caged up. At the same time, it's exciting for the kids, particularly my youngest.

The L.A. Zoo has a massive new elephant area, and that was at least a bit refreshing, that the huge animals have a bit more space.

Music news: My 15-year-old has gotten really into his guitar lessons. He also, once again, has changed some of his views. He used to hate the Avett Brothers, one of my folky favorites, but he now embraces them.

A lucky 1 percent

I went to the obstetrician for the first time today. My family doc did a great job with the referral. The female OB is mellow and down-to-earth -- and pregnant with her fifth child herself.

I got to see the baby's heartbeat, and his/her tiny little self, with arms and legs.

The doc accepted my refusal to have any genetic testing without any argument, but she is sending me to get a diabetes test (early) later this week because of my big babies and diabetes in my family. So, I'll have my first jolt of glucose since Oct. 2007.

She marveled at what they call "a spontaneous conception" at my age. She said there's only about a one percent chance of people conceiving without intervention. Of course, how can they really test that figure? But, oh, it's fun to be a medical curiosity.