"And the sea is just a wetter version of the skies..."

-Regina Spektor

To be able to see the world through different lenses, think crazy thoughts and then package it in such a beautiful way that the public just can't get enough of it.  That is the gift of a wonderful artist.  Who would have thought that Picasso's cubism would inspire so many people to look at art and the world and people in a different way?  And Bob Dylan: without such creative lyrics and soulful melodies, Dylan's words would have influenced a tiny fraction of the world that they did when accompanied by harmonious guitar and harmonica.

Today I had the privilege of watching Regina Spektor perform live.  Ever since I fell in love with her song "Fidelity" in 2006, Regina's bold vocals and unique translation of thoughts into lyrics have really struck a chord with me (haha... punny!).  Here are a few videos I shot while watching her perform.  The first one, "Folding Chair" is my favorite, but unfortunately I only had enough memory card to shoot 20 seconds.  Listen to the full song here.  You won't regret it.

"Folding Chair"

And here is a live version of "Fidelity."

Catherine in _________?

When I began this blog about a year ago, I titled it "Catherine in California" because I liked the alliteration, and I thought it was a good follow-up to my first blog, "Catherine in Jerusalem."  By including California in the title, however, I have recently felt a bit constrained to keep the majority of my posts focused on either myself (Catherine) or the state I currently live in (California).

But the truth is, much of the time, my thoughts are still in Jerusalem.  

The modest 3.5 months I spent there over a year ago ignited something inside of me and I can't/don't want to put it out.  I've often wished I had two more years left (on scholarship) in school to study Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies.  But I don't.  So my learning and fire is fueled by watching/reading news stories.  I've recently discovered World Focus which provides very strong coverage of the Arab world.  Today's show gives two solid features on both Palestinians and Israelis living in the West Bank. Watch it to get a better understanding of life in Israel.  

What makes me really sad is that 99% of the people I interact with on a normal basis don't understand the issues I care so deeply about.  It's not their fault.  If I can steal something from Amy's blog, "Everyone is doing the very best they can, according to their own level of understanding."

But what if that level of understanding can be changed, equalized to put all members of the Earth on the same level?  The people I respect the most are those that are open to hearing new ideas, new thinking and new knowledge, even if that new knowledge strikingly disagrees with their own circle of thought.  

While I'm often tempted to simply write about my daily, or weekly, activities, I'll do my best to continue posting my own personal understanding of this world.

More photos from Canovix:

Leaving....

...for a week at the Lakehouse. This picture is from a Hawaii trip 3 years ago and I'm riding toward the ocean, not a lake, but it represents everything I love about summer: sunshine, water & freedom.

I'm slightly excited to do whatever I want for the next 10 days. And all key ingredients will be there: sun, a large body of water, friends and family. Peace!

Goodnight Moon

Excuse me for sharing this great photo I snapped last night of the moon resting over Los Angeles.  The moon has been amazing lately.  Or maybe I've been catching it at just the right time, when it's close to the horizon.

Isn't it funny how the moon has become such a symbol for bedtime and rest?  The closer and brighter it is, the more comfort it seems to offer, like a giant nightlight.  It's also the perfect starting point for dreams.  Gazing at the moon creates questions, wonder and amazement about what else is out there.  I love it.  Check out today's NASA picture of the day, which is also very peaceful and beautiful.   Good night, Moon!

Soul.

(image - Raphael Saadiq)

Enjoy a little bit of it this weekend.

Hint--wait for the playlist to load.