FOOL FOR LOVE
My cousin Dirk (Nathan) Smiler, "Prince of the DC Goths," lover of fine wine, poetry and beautiful women; a profligate, luminous soul, murdered on the eve of his 38th Birthday in Fairfax, VA in 2010.

PERSPICACIOUS Dr Z
An anthem to a mid-century scientist, in the style of a 17th century laudatory verse (nod to Andrew Marvell) A man of universal interests, medical doctor, scholar; loved biology first and foremost, but a man of complex and speculative thoughts. A great teacher. My Dad.

BRIDE OF SCIENCE
She marveled at his brilliance, the good-looking physician and Army lieutenant just back from running an English pathology lab. 55 years later, still marrried in the manner of mid-century couples. But there were very, very difficult years. My mom.

SUNNY BOY
My maternal Uncle Wesley Smiler, a man I wish I'd known better. I Had the honor of delivering his eulogy.