Dear Friends and Family,

Things have been rather rough for me—I suppose because of the infusion or because of the spleen encroaching on my esophagus. The chest pain is increasing enough to force me to take a pain pill every four hours. And wonder of wonders‚ I have no appetite. Mentally I would like to eat, but the first bite brings on pain and nausea. Merwin has sent a report to Dr. M. as requested, and Dr. M. wrote directly to Dr. G. to suggest an endoscopy if the heart is OK.  If the infusion reduces my spleen, it will improve the situation. Altogether,  my body has to adjust to the drug. I could not go on Saturday to Tilles Center (10 minutes from here) for a concert by the Vienna Philharmonic on Saturday. But I am confident that things will improve. I am not unhappy, just weak, and the drug makes me very sleepy.

I note that the upgrade of this program allows me to attach videos, so I will try my favorite—very old and
faded. but lovely anyway. Note the camera work; it makes me smile to think of it.

Big news: A date has been set for Laura's defense of her dissertation in December, and she has invited friends and family to attend. —and she has he job she wants, putting her PhD in organic chemistry to use in an industry working on ethanol developed from something other than corn. Hooray for Laura! She has already rented a lovely apartment in Chicago, and will not be far from her aunt (Sandy's sister) in the city. I wish I could go to her defense (in Boston)!

Remember, Jesús, your defense, and the honor I had of being on the panel? What a thrill that was to participate in the discussion, and the bountiful celebrations!

Laura's sisters Michelle and Rachael, are preparing essays for graduate school, and I am one editor. This is work that I can do, or will be able to do when I get better.

Today I was able to go with Merwin to Christ Church for a marvelous concert by the Long Island Baroque Ensemble. I have written about this group before. This was an especially bright and  lively concert. I lasted the whole time, but with my eyes closed. The drive to Oyster Bay is lovely. I have been relishing the changes in the trees, and they were especially beautiful today. Leaving at about 5:00 p.m. we were treated to a lively display of sunset colors.

Lovely day: hope you had one too.

Love,
Bernice