Back in the West

Ahhh...back in the house after being gone for a little over a week, seems like a long, long time though since I left. Philly was getting mighty too cold for this Californian's blood, but I had to stop by Southern CA first to see the folks before coming home. Went to see the Neville Brothers in concert with no expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised by the natural soulful harmonizing talent of the Brothers, especially Aaron. I was brought to tears by his rendition of "Amazing Grace" with his own soul gospel style that cannot be replicated, soft but complicated, the room was silent and held still captivated by his crooning. Attended an elegant wedding of a childhood friend of mine whom I hadn't seen in 20 years. It was held outside in the OC, and amazingly, the consistent rain stopped an hour before the wedding in answer to everyone's worrying and prayers - Daphne's father who unexpectedly passed away last year saw to it that his first daughter's wedding was perfect, and it certainly was. Good to see her and her family again, lots of champagne, fun boisterous table, dancing to fairly cheesey 70's music til late. Met my good friend Sherri's second baby Stephanie just 9 weeks old, focused on my eyes, welcome to the world baby girl. Finally enjoyed the independent hit "Motorcycle Diaries" - completely inspiring, such wonderful shots of the South American road and landscape, beautiful charismatic actor, eyes that tell so much, bought the soundtrack - can't wait to give it my undivided ear. I've always wanted to go to Chile for some reason and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, has always drawn me - someday...it's just good to be back for now.