I passed my stress test–even impressed the doctor with how well I did. This kind of nuclear stress test–they inject you with something radioactive then measure how much accumulates in your heart while you are on the treadmill–evidently is able to show whether you have any blockages. They assured me I was fine and should be able to do whatever I wanted, including going to China and Japan as I had planned. This is the happiest day I've had since I had the problem in New York a month ago. It's been a hard month, psychologically, especially after Tim Russert's sudden death. My pacemaker required some adjustment, which is probably why I haven't been feeling so wonderful all this month. Pacemakers are supposed to make you feel good.

I've been continuing with my exercise program–leg exercises, walking, and finally got back to the health club yesterday. I haven't been able to do my usual 3 miles, only 2 miles each time this month. I'll try again the next cool morning we get here.

Last week I wrote about a wonderful painted house we looked at on Pittsburgh's North Side. You can read about it and see pictures here.