Film Friday – Top Spiritual Movies

May 25, 2012

Don’t go through life, grow through life.” ~ Eric Butterworth 

During times of economic, social, political or personal upheaval, people more actively seek escape and look for things that bring them a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. 

Some individuals look inward (finding ways to rebuild life through self-examination, spirituality and religion) and others search for answers outside of themselves – perhaps a bigger home, an exotic vacation, more money, a new car.  Attached is an article that may provide some insight into why each of us explore different avenues and what we value when looking for personal fulfillment. http://bit.ly/LevZ8M

Today is Film Friday. Our focus is top spiritual movies that help people discover inner ways of finding satisfaction in their lives. Here are ten suggestions: 

  • What the Bleep?
  • Peaceful Warrior
  • The Celestine Prophecy
  • The Secret
  • From Ambition to Meaning
  • Wishes Fulfilled
  • Conversations with God
  • Small Miracles (Family appropriate)
  • The Blue Butterfly
  • The Kid (Family appropriate)
  • You Can Heal Your Life 

I do more reading and writing than anything else, so I have only seen a few of these films. It’s time I put down my reading glasses and do more “inner work” by gaining new perspectives through film. A journey through cinema can be equally as satisfying. 

If you were to cast a vote, what is your favorite spiritual movie?  I would love to hear more suggestions from our readers. Click on the comment section, below and send it in.

Have a good Memorial Day weekend, everyone!

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Art of Norman Rockwell in NW Colorado

May 24, 2012

I’ll never have enough time to paint all the pictures I’d like to. ~ Norman Rockwell 

The familiar art that graced the covers of The Saturday Evening Post for nearly 50 years is being exhibited at the Museum of Northwest Colorado in Craig. The exhibit, paid for by the museum’s mineral lease funds, has brought 323 original tear sheets of Norman Rockwell art to the museum and also Rockwell’s original painting “Spirit of Education.”

Rockwell’s enchanting art captures everyday life in small towns featuring the “locals,”  the backbone of community. A prolific painter and illustrator, Rockwell’s images were published in more than 40 books throughout his lifetime. 

Stockbridge, Massachusetts is now the home to Norman Rockwell’s art. Years ago it was also housed in a church on Main Street in Arlington,Vermont, the place where Rockwell most frequently found his subjects to paint and illustrate.

Some of the museum’s docents were Norman Rockwell models,we discovered, when  I took my son as an elementary school student to see the art. We came home with a  great memento of our fulfilling visit; a postcard image of the Rockwell museum docent as a young girl, captured in one of  Rockwell’s illustrations. Graciously, she signed the postcard for us.

The Rockwell exhibit infrequently makes it’s way westward, so if you are within driving distance of the Museum of  Northwest Colorado http://bit.ly/Kh6q5u take the opportunity to visit this art collection of iconic Americana. A great exhibit for the whole family to see; free to the public and on display until September 28th at 590 Yampa Avenue in Craig, Colorado. Don’t miss out!

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Hidden Meanings, Parallels and Metaphors in Art

May 23, 2012

Always walk through life as if you have something new to learn and you will.”
~Vernon Howard 

My husband, son and I stumbled upon Vladimir Kush’s work at the Chalk Farm Gallery “The World’s Leading Gallery for Visionary Art” in Santa Fe, New Mexico. 

Kush’s metaphorical artwork grabbed me line, hook and sinker with symbolic images that tell stories through their relationships to each other.  Hidden meanings and unexpected likenesses and connections all combined into one composition left me with one puzzle to ponder after another. The parallels Kush draws between objects inspires the viewer to think creatively, abstractly and with great depth and insight. 

Each piece of work featured in The Chalk Farm Gallery compliments the theme of visionary art; spiritual and metaphysical in nature. Some of the other artists represented by Chalk Farm Gallery include:

  • Daniel Merriam
  • Robert Bissell
  • Michael Parkes
  • Tomasz Kopera 

If you are on the East Coast, Daniel Merriam will be featured at The Allentown Art Museum, At the Edge: Art of the Fantastic from June 3rd to September 9th, check it out. Fans of Maxfield Parrish will appreciate his work. You can see the influence in Merriam’s work. Merriam has several exquisite coffee table books, including “The Art of Daniel Merriam: The Eye of a Dreamer.” For more information, please visit this site http://bit.ly/KJIB99

We returned twice throughout the day to Chalk Farm Gallery. It was one of our favorites on Canyon Road. Fascinating work that none of us would thought we would have been particularly drawn to. We couldn’t help but appreciate the elements of carefully constructed thought that went into the making of each composition. 

To read about these artists and many creatives that are represented by Chalk Farm Gallery, please visit http://bit.ly/Jns3Qr.


Book Buzz

May 21, 2012

No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” ~ Calvin Coolidge 

We are full of excitement here at Cornerstone Fulfillment Service, LLC! Spring means book awards. On Thursday evening,  four SHe Writes Steamboat members came away with EVVY awards from the Colorado Independent Publishers Association. The award ceremony and reception was held at the beautiful Lone Tree Art Center in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Trevor’s Boehm’s book Louie’s Saxophone won first place in the legacy category. Parents Leslie, Darnell and his sister Ali were on hand to accept the award. The sales of this very inspirational book go toward supporting NAMI – the National Association of Mental Health. http://bit.ly/L2BR1t.

Karen Gilroy’s book, Discovering the Healer Within took first prize in the Health/Fitness category. Karen is a RouttCounty resident fromHayden,Colorado. She also is business owner of All Natural. http://bit.ly/qRB1lm.

At Home in the Elk River Valley, by Mary B Kurtz took two prizes – a Merit award for cover design and an award in the category of Non-Fiction/Experience. http://bit.ly/K0d3u7.

Mission Possible by Dawn V Obrecht, M.D. garnered an EVVY award in the Legacy category. Mission Possible also recently won a Montaigne Medal at the Eric Hoffer Awards this spring. Congratulations are also in order for Dr. Obrecht’s release of her newest publication From the Edge of the Cliff, published in April 2012 by Richer Press. http://bit.ly/KnFqxW.

A total of 190 books were entered into s and can now add “award winning author” to their personal CVs.  To see where these books may be purchased, please go to each individual author’s websites.

Karen Gilroy, Dawn V Obrecht, M.D., Ali Boehm. Missing from photo Mary Kurtz

To read more about this event, please visit this link to the Steamboat Pilot article, published on May 19, 2012. http://bit.ly/K3xDtG.

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The Art of Book Display

May 17, 2012

“The whole of art is an appeal to a reality which is not without us but in our minds.” ~ Desmond McCarthy 

I’ve been known to buy a book on gardening or home decorating and design based on a single picture I liked! Crazy, you might say but, it is the truth of the matter. 

The other day, I began thinking of instances that have led me into the action of buying a book rather than just perusing the publication’s dust jacket. Finding an interesting book among other things that I like (complimentary products) has prompted me to buy. 

Some of the most successful bookstores I have ever entered, pull merchandising off real well. One year, all in one fell swoop, I created the best Mother’s Day present ever. I went into a great bookstore, and they had an attractive table display geared toward the gardener. Within a few minutes time, I had picked up a small, beautifully designed picture book of heirloom perennial flowers, some heirloom garden seeds,  Burt’s Bees gardener’s skin cream and soap, a garden hand tool and a garden container, perfect for creating a gift basket. Viola! I was all set. 

My decision of whether or not to buy that book was driven by the convenience and beauty of the display! Why not, everything I needed for a beautiful gift was right there. Booksellers, here is a good article on merchandising http://bit.ly/ggZDq3.

Some bookstores do a better  job of merchandising than others. A feature of “Book of the Month” with complimentary products may help drive sales. After all, in book selling you are trying to appeal to the heart and soul of the readers interests, are you not?  For instance, in the dead of winter, a cozy display of knitting books and yarns and other like accessories might just strike a chord. It is worth a try and  it will make for added interest among rows and rows of books, that make decision-making often difficult. 

The art of  the display could mean no investment at all,  just a extra little time and effort. An attractive arrangement of coordinating merchandise  and books already found throughout the store,  gathered into one creative display may bring added focus to the publications. Sounds like fun to me! A treasure hunt! Put the composition front and center and ask your customers how they like it. Perhaps when it is time to switch-up the display, raffle-off a small gift from the collection as a token of thanks for bookstore browsers. Could this be a way of identifying customers with niche market interests? It may help  determine what  flies. 

Independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


EVVY Awards at the Lone Tree Art Center Tomorrow!

May 16, 2012

Feeling a part of that community is my greatest reward.” ~ Paul Parker

Last Saturday, I attended the last monthly meeting of the Colorado Independent Publishers Association meeting until September. It was well attended and members voted in the new Board of Directors for next year. Thank you to outgoing President Dan Miller, the Executive Director, Karen Reddick and the Board of  Directors for serving over the last year. Great strides were made over the past year by increasing membership and also in forming an e-book partnership with the Douglas County Libraries. Great job! 

Tomorrow night is the grand celebration of the year for the Colorado Independent Publishers Association.(CIPA).  The EVVY book awards will be held at the Lone Tree Art Center, in Lone Tree,Colorado. I am especially excited this year because we have finalists in the contest from our independent publishers group, SHe Writes Steamboat! Best of luck to the following authors: 

  • Trevor Boehm’s book Louie’s Saxophone submitted by Leslie & Ali Boehm
  • Karen Gilroy Discovering the Healer Within
  • Mary Kurtz At Home in the Elk River Valley
  • Dawn V. Obrecht, M.D.  Mission Possible

 A total of 190 books were submitted and judged for the EVVY Awards this year.All contestants all should be proud of their accomplishments of writing and publishing their books. From the list of finalists, it appears there will be some wonderful books added to the CIPA catalog;  titles that are unique and out of the ordinary – the beauty of independent publishing.

If you are someone who is considering independently publishing, I highly recommend that no matter what state you reside in that you research whether there is an independent publishing association that you can join. The benefit and support is well worth it.

Colorado is very fortunate to have one of the largest and most active independent publishing associations in the country.  To read about the benefits of becoming a member, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/w2f0gu.

I look forward to being at the EVVY awards tomorrow night. Next week, I hope to post some photographs of the event!

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


A Beautifully Understated Sundance

May 15, 2012

Simplicity is nature’s first step, and the last of art.” ~ Philip James Bailey 

Last Thursday, on a magnificent, crystal-clear, blue morning, I made the short trek from Park City,Utah over to Sundance; a simply stunning  “enclave” for artists. The surroundings are awe-inspiring and rustic – beautifully understated. The natural environment has been left as undisturbed as possible. Tumbling, sparkling clean streams run between the outbuildings on the secluded, small mountainous woodland resort appropriately called “nature inspired.” 

During the height of the summer season, the art studio where professional potters, jewerly makers, photographers and glass blowers teach their craft, is a beehive of activity. Glassblowers create glassware from recycled glass. Unfortunately, I arrived two weeks too early to see the place abuzz;  it was “off-season.”  It was still a worthwhile trip and I nearly had the place to myself. 

The summer season will officially open with the 10th Sundance author’s series. On Saturday May 19th, Ann Packer, author of Swim Back to Me will be presenting her book, a drama-filled collection of stories, about one family, that is filled with psychological twists and turns. The book is said to make “the reader see situations with new perspective.” 

The event includes admission to the book presentation, a ticket for brunch and an autographed copy of Swim Back to Me. Lodging can be arranged by the resort. I am sorry I will not be in the area to participate. For more information and to obtain tickets, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/KIOTGZ

Also on the calendar this summer, during the weeks of July 23 to August 18th, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers will grace the stage at the Sundance Resort. http://bit.ly/mHZvlh. Musical events and a harvest market of artisan crafts in the fall will keep the property, previously Ute territory, busy. The inital acreage for the resort was purchased for $500 in 1960. Additional acreage was purchased in 1969 and developed by Robert Redford. To read about the history of Timphaven, please visit this link. http://bit.ly/J1CYDT

The drive from Heber City around Deer Creek Reservoir is so scenic. If you are ever in the area, take time to drive up to Sundance. Although seemingly private, it is only two miles off the well beaten path of State Route 189. 

That is all from the fulfilling art scene from the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. It was a great trip!

This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Canyons of Art and Culture in the Wasatch

May 14, 2012

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” ~ Confucius  

Last week I had an enjoyable three days exploring the art scene in Park City and Sundance, Utah. Both places you’ll you find yourself nestled between steep canyons that have a high emphasis on nature, recreation, art and culture; literary, visual , performing arts and filmmaking. 

I came across two wonderful bookstores while exploring downtown, historic Park City. Dolly’s Bookstore http://bit.ly/dfGVjX  is a small, independent bookstore but the selection of titles was impeccable. The organization of the store was flawless with a cheerful, bright atmosphere.  They must have known I was coming! One of the first books I noticed as I walked into the store was a book that has been nagging at me for a long time, yet I have not read it. This time, without blinking, I bought! It has been said that it takes 10 times for someone to see a book before they decide to buy. I believe it! Good argument for the need for continual marketing! 

My book of my choice was Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott. What a surprise when I turned to the author’s bio. I discovered Anne Lamott studied writing at Goucher College http://bit.ly/huNMDI   - a University well-known for it’s outstanding writing program, in the town where I grew up -Towson, Maryland. Perhaps the reason so many have told me to read the book! 

The second bookstore was called the Expanding Heart http://bit.ly/KdulFo   - a retail place filled with books, music and other wares all focused upon spirituality and personal fulfillment; subjects such as angels, miracles, yoga, meditation, mysticism, religion, the power of attraction, miracles, chakras,  and much more filled the shelves. So much to absorb; I could have spent forever in that space. 

If you are ever in the area of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, do stop by both Park City bookstores! Plan on extra time so you can visit historic Main Street in its entirety! Their retail establishments and restaurants, including Robert Redford’s Zoom are outstanding. I can understand why Park Cityand Sundance draws a huge audience to their annual film festival. It is a great place to visit or live! 

Tomorrow, I’ll give you an overview of my fulfilling trip to Sundance and an upcoming literary event which is scheduled for this coming weekend. More independent thoughts, words and views from www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Film Study: Dog and Human Relationships Worldwide

May 11, 2012

 “The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth will ever be.” ~ Konrad Lorenz

Last Friday, I wrote a blog about the top dog films, and it had a very nice following. If you missed it,  visit this link http://bit.ly/Kkywjs.

 In this town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado dogs rule! It is as if owning a dog is a sign of prestige. I love dogs and I’ve always had one in my life except for brief periods of time when I have been “between dogs,” like right now. 

I’ve often wondered whether people’s obsession with their pets (specifically canines) is unique to the United States. Do families in other countries place as much importance on their animals well being as their own? 

It has been said that people who own dogs live longer and are more personally fulfilled. A study in the correlation between countries, dog ownership or not, and average life expectancy would be fascinating. Don’t you think? It would make for a very interesting global film study (by way of documentary). I’d be up for traveling the world with the objective of gathering information on the importance and value people put on their dogs in various countries. Of course, we’d need the help of some independent film investors . Perhaps a film like that has already been produced, and I am not aware of it. 

I can hear all the cat owners, now! “What about us?” they are asking. We find just as much satisfaction and companionship with felines! 

If anyone decides to invest in this proposed venture, please let me know way in advance – before my ship comes in and before I grab a flight out. I need to find a travel companion. My constant canine companion of 17 years went to doggie heaven last November. I sure do miss the ole girl, and it could take me a while to decide on a new breed.

On second thought, I’d better travel without a dog. Sometimes dogs are too territorial and they fight with other pooches. We don’t need any more soured international relationships; there is enough fighting going on in this world as it is!  I am looking for personal fulfillment.

Is that not the cutest picture you’ve ever seen? It made my day!  Have a fulfilling Friday, everyone!  This blog brought to you by www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.


Dressed for Creativity

May 9, 2012

People in good moods are better at inductive reasoning and creative problem solving.” ~ –From Emotion, Disclosure, and Health, 1995

Over the next few days, I am working from a different geographical location – the art scene in Park City and Sundance, Utah. About to step out, it just occurred to me am dressed like an Orange Julius. I’ve never had much use for the color orange in my wardrobe, but lately I have been sporting it. Why not? Orange reflects my mood. I am ravenous for creativity and new perspectives. Perhaps I’ll pin a sprig of fresh spearment to my lapel. According to the book  The Language of Flowers, it will add warmth to my spirit.

Stepping away from routine always brings new thoughts and mental stimulation. Sundance and Park City,Utah are great places to start working on a few  e-marketing plans for some newly published authors. One book involves a serious subject that affects many people, in every community. I believe the book is written in a voice that reaches the right people in a very effective way. It has already received wonderful recognition from a national association. 

Other independent publishers I will be working with have written books that are fictional in nature with global issues. They have interesting storylines that just beg for conversation and thought. 

All of the book’s themes supposes how life would be in different circumstances. Putting together a good e-marketing approach  for each one will mean transporting my mind from life as I know it, into different cultural scenarios. I’ll have to dig deep into the emotions that come as a result of that.  E-marketing is mentally and creatively stimulating, I like the challenge and  love what I do. 

You are probably asking at this point “What are the books titles?”  I plan to share them with you at a later date. Giving the books themes due diligence is the first order of business and then I need to consider markets of potential buyers. When I am ready, I will reveal. 

Ok – I’m off to Sundance! It will be a fulfilling morning, I just know it! http://bit.ly/Iz5V3S.  Observing  colorful work of amazing artists is guaranteed to inspire. How will colors other than orange, affect my thinking?  I’m confident seeing fresh galleries and studios will generate a full spectrum of creative thought. This afternoon and this evening, I ’ll attack my work with new focus and gusto.

More independent thoughts, words and views tomorrow. Come on back to the blogsite of www.CornerstoneFulfillmentService.com.