Category: Notes

Notes on my ever-evolving interests — arts, crafts, and music — though my loyal companion cat, Ezra, has a habit of gently shifting my focus.

Learning an Instrument Shapes the Mind

Studies from USC, Frontiers in Neuroscience, the Save The Music Foundation, Harvard, and the Arts Education Partnership all highlight how music training improves memory, attention, and executive function. These very skills help students thrive in every subject. Research also indicates that music enhances math skills, particularly in areas such as fractions, patterns, and spatial reasoning. Beyond academics, music has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer’s and support cognitive health as we age. A well-rounded education needs the arts. Music isn’t just extra. It’s foundational. Music does not just teach notes and rhythms. It teaches focus, resilience, and wonder. 🎶🎷✨🎨🎹🎼🖼️🎵🖌️🐾

📚 Selected Research References:

  • Harvard Graduate School of Education — How Arts Education Improves Learning
  • Frontiers in Psychology — The Impact of Music Training on Executive Functions
  • Save The Music Foundation — The Benefits of Music Education
  • Arts Education Partnership — Music Matters: How Music Education Supports Learning Across Subjects
  • USC Brain and Creativity Institute — Neuroscience Links Between Music Training and Brain Development
  • Alzheimer’s Association & Northwestern Medicine — Studies on music’s role in enhancing memory and reducing Alzheimer’s symptoms

#SupportMusicEd #MusicMatters #SaveTheMusic #WholeChildLearning #ArtsInEducation #CognitiveGrowth #Cognitive Development #STEMtoSTEAM #EducationWithHeart #KeepTheArtsAlive #EducationForAll #ArtsInSchools #MusicAndMath

Every Day Is Caturday with Ezra

Every day is Caturday. At least, that’s what my cat, Ezra, has taught me. In this video, taken shortly after his adoption in 2019, Ezra plays with his interactive butterfly toy, fully immersed in the moment. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of what cats do best — help us de-stress, embrace the present, and move forward from life’s hardships. 

Caturday isn’t just about adorable cat videos; it’s an unspoken philosophy—a call to set aside time for relaxation and renewal. Cats live this wisdom effortlessly, choosing their company wisely, embracing their instincts, and letting go of what no longer serves them. Ezra has been a daily guide in this, reminding me that rest isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential.

Much like us, cats experience change, uncertainty, and loss. Yet they continuously adapt, finding joy in new routines, relationships, and moments of play. This resilience is why they make incredible therapy companions, offering quiet support, emotional comfort, and a steady presence in our lives. Ezra greets me, keeps me company, and, in his way, encourages me to shine on despite life’s challenges.

Ezra is more than just a playful cat—he’s a faithful companion. Having adopted him when he was already an adult, I learned firsthand how incredible shelter cats can be. Unlike kittens, whose personalities are still developing, older cats offer a glimpse into their nature from the start, making the adoption process more predictable. Ezra was friendly at the shelter, and that warm, loving personality has stayed with him ever since. Additionally, I believe shelter cats adopted when they are older are more appreciative. Ezra is an excellent companion and consistently shows his gratitude. 

Adopting an older cat comes with many rewards, and Ezra reminds me of that every day. He greets me, keeps me company, and even seems to understand and support me in his special way. Cats like Ezra are often overlooked in favor of kittens and designer breeds, but the truth is, millions of incredible felines need loving homes. Whether abandoned, surrendered, or outnumbered by demand, shelter cats are just as loving—if not more—than those bred for appearance.