Rookie watch: somehow, he's not improving my tennis game...

Hi folks! I guess BabyCenter decided to send me updates again-- and according to them we have roughly 84 days to go! But, my coworker Jos' sister-in-law was due in October and just gave birth yesterday morning to a baby that seems to be hanging in there, all things considered. Since I don't feel remotely feel ready, I'm glad to report that we are progressing along at a more normal pace. Chris pointed out that The Rookie will probably triple in size before he's born, which is amazing and daunting-- I already feel pretty big, and sometimes have to give him a hard nudge to get more comfortable. He is still moving a lot, and we alternate between feeling him move or just watching my stomach as he manipulates his way in there. Both methods of Rookie-watching can occupy us for quite a while, and I think he responds when we talk to him in some way. First an update from our latest midwife appointment and October parent group session: I got screened for some typical things during the appointment, and I'm happy to report that my iron levels seem good, and am not testing positive for gestational diabetes. We discussed staying healthy, comfortable (my lower back is starting to ache at times, and I think I'll start prenatal yoga when I'm back in DC the week of August 11), breastfeeding (yes, I plan to do so, at least for six months, which means I'll pump in the office somehow), and labor. I am a big fan of their model of care, and very grateful they have a tub for labor and delivery! The Rookie and I have some travel ahead, starting with my flight up to New England on Friday, events on Sunday at 11 Tallard where I hope to see some of you, then driving out to Western PA via NYC with Jen, and the joyous celebrations to mark the wedding of Annie and Jonathan.with a gaggle of Harwood Hotties and other wacky folks. It's good to get out of DC when it's this hot-- though Chris and I did get out this weekend for some tennis both days. And, we got to see Lea, Wes, Charlie, Aleck, Stacey and Amanda on Saturday. Those kids make you excited to be a parent! That's the news here. Lots of love to you all, and look forward to seeing many of you soon!xoxoxo The Rookie vessel