Tag Archives: personal fulfillment

Home-Made Fulfillment

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“A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.”  ~ Mahatma Gandhi

Last weekend it was showery. But it was filled with the harvests of intentional living bringing a mix of fulfilling things to do beginning on Thursday at a lecture and slide show given by Adrienne Stein and Quang Ho at the fabulous Ladew Topiary Gardens.

On Friday evening, The Maryland Center for the Arts provided a second opportunity to see the exhibit of the 2023 Harford County Plein Air Painters. Local art, painted outdoors at many cultural and familiar sites around the county in which I live. The talented artists who participated provided plenty of visual pleasure for me – one who is drawn to representational paintings at it’s finest.

I self-created my own seasonal blessings on Saturday by spending the morning listening to George Winston’s Autumn selections while I cooked. Winston is well-known for solo piano compositions which are said to be, “melodic, warm, pastoral music.”

So what did I cook? Seasonal favorites, of course! Butternut squash muffins filled with warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, a dash of clove and ginger, made even better topped with apple butter. And green split pea soup – flavors enhanced with hearty chunks of ham and a hint of thyme. A gastronomical melding of autumn flavors. A little sweet and savory.

At the end of the day, through a simple choice I made about what I value for this website, I attended an event that brought more coziness to my heart and soul. I went to a small village where the people who settled it in the 1800’s shared many of the cultural values I also try to embrace in my every day living.

Won’t you join me? Come on back in four days hence, on the 16th of October, and we will revisit a time in our nation’s history when life was very different.

Natural Energy

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A family home, built in 1898 by Dr. Howard Atwood Kelly, was the venue of a special evening last week. I, and perhaps others, would consider the man who owned and built the home to be a “pioneering medical intuitive.” The gathering was all about art and connection bringing the energy of creatives, of all mediums together. Visual artists, literary artists, floral artists as well as performing artists were present and were among those who believe in the power of art to inspire, motivate, heal and illuminate our lives. People who understand and embrace the concept are especially well-tuned into improving the wellness of communities.

Medical practitioners are beginning to fully understand some of the ideas Dr. Kelly presented in his writings, published more than 100 years ago, about the connection between nature and health and happiness of the mind, body, spirit. Our own creativity, given to everyone by a “higher being” is another holistic, life-affirming force. If we are open to this concept we can improve our moods, lift our spirits and help ourselves by alleviating stressors detrimental to our health by being one with nature and using our creative energy.

Today, I’d simply like to thank the Bel Art Arts and Entertainment District as well as other sponsoring organizations such as the Maryland State Arts Council and the Harford Artists Association and the Town of Bel Air and Harford County Cultural Arts Board for providing the opportunity for creatives to come together for the common purpose of “art and heart.” It was a wonderful evening at the Liriodendron Mansion.

Swaying and Sultry on Palm Sunday Afternoon

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A band whose privilege has been to perform at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. came to perform at the last concert of the winter/spring series at “Music at the Mansion” in Bel Air, Maryland. Seth Kibel, an accomplished woodwind musician and his band have won 28 Washington Area Music awards and deservedly so! Vocalist Flo Anito’s voice is beautifully suited to the genre of music – swing and jazz. Several 1920’s era tunes were played with instrumentals by Kibel on the clarinet, saxophone and flute. Michael Raitcyk accompanied on the guitar, Bob Abbott on double bass and Wes Crawford on the drums.

Here are just some of the recognizable favorites – I Take You with Anything But Love, Blue Skies, Bye-Bye Blackbird and Dance with Me. The artists drew selections from The Great American Songbook such as Dream a Little Dream. A song made famous in the Big Band era by Ann Renelle called Willow Weep for Me were in the mix.

An element of the unexpected were in a few Yiddish classics, one which was sung long ago by the Andrews Sisters. Seth Kibel and his band also included fast-paced European Folk Music often played at weddings, as well as a Brazilian bossa nova.

Of course, Billie Holiday an American jazz and swing music singer, raised in Baltimore, was not left out. Her slow, dreamy composition “God Bless the Child” came at the end of the concert.

What an enjoyable Palm Sunday afternoon it was at the Liriodendron Mansion. Keep your eye on the Liriodendron website for a great line up of performers coming this summer. “Music at the Mansion is made possible in part by a grant from Maryland State Arts Council through Harford County Cultural Arts Board, by Harford County, by Music Land, and by supporters like you!“

Spiritual Immersion

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For a brief few hours, I was immersed into a musical culture quite foreign to me. I attended a concert by a Indian sitar star, Alif Laila. Alif born in Dahka, Bangladesh came to the United States in 1981. Her career has taken her to prestigious venues including UNESCO World Heritage sites. Accompanied by Suryahshah Deshpande playing the tabla, which is something like a two-headed bongo drum, and Meem Haque who played a drone instrument called the tanpura. Each beautifully complemented the resonating sounds of the sitar. The tabla musician is a grade A artist, who has been well-endorsed by the Department of Culture in the Indian Government. Meem Haque is one of Alif’s leading students.

The Liriodendron Mansion in Bel Air, Maryland where the concert was held is proving to be an arts venue attracting very high quality musicians both of national and international acclaim.

Quickly I learned in the first opening composition why sitar music is very spiritual. The sixteen beat rhythmic pattern was trance-like but the beat matched the mood as it was peaceful and pensive.The second Alaap was mixed tempo going from medium to fast to a very quick, almost urgent to my way of thinking, finale. It was energetic and celebratory-like the arrival of a long-awaited spring (or basant.)

“Pahadi,” meaning from the mountains, came the third composition. This light classical composition originated in the Himalayas. Although light, it was complex mix of sounds, which Alif compared to different colored pigments mixing with water. A visual artist as well, her medium of choice is watercolors.

As the musicians wrapped up the concert, Alif stated she was saturated with devotion to those who enjoy her music and attend her concerts and she was going to “dance with that. Why not?” she asked.

Just as interesting as the music was, I was struck by Alif’s expressions while playing and there was no doubt in my mind, she was deeply engaged, heart and soul, with the music. At times she appeared to be in a trance-like state, at other times, you could see the joyfulness and playfulness on her facial countenance.

Do visit Alif Laila’s website. Her musical accomplishments and venues where she has performed is impressive. Her mission is to keep this ancient form of music alive by teaching her students at a music school she founded in Washington, DC.

It was another enjoyable musical evening at The Liriodendron Mansion. The sponsors – the Maryland State Arts Council, Harford County Cultural Arts Board, a grant from Harford County and contributions from Music Land made the evening possible.

Cultural diversity in all art forms is good and art enriches our inner world in so many ways. Do return to our next post, which will be brought to you from the same venue. Music from the Mansion on the Sunday afternoon of Palm Sunday was as invigorating in nature as the surroundings of the venue.

Christmas at an Historic Mansion – Part 2

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Seasons Greetings! If you missed Part 1 of this two part post, follow me through this link and you can read it.

Today, we will feature the curated selection of artisans who added to the festivities at the Liriodendron Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 3, 2022. The backdrop in nearly every room where the wares were sold were an exhibit of antique hooked rugs from the 1880’s to mid 20th century.. They were on loan from the private collection of Eric Gordon who recently retired from his position of Head of Paintings Conservation at The Walters Art Gallery in Baltimore.

Enjoy the second glance into the holiday experience the Liriodendron Foundation provided for it’s visitors. The high quality selection of the artists work speaks for itself just like the mansion did for it’s visitors. Many toured Liriodendron for the first time ever, and were awestruck at the architectural details and had no idea what a lovely holiday outing they were really in for.

Woodenwares by Grilled Trees

Zinnia Virgo Soaps, LLC

Book Artist Extraordinaire Jodi Harvey

Three Oaks Farm Alpacas of Forest Hill, MD

Jo Houtz, Artist

Jo Houtz (on right) and her loyal assistant. Jo Houtz has done so much for the Harford Artists Association over the years.

She deserves to be sitting under the star!

Rosemaling by Lise Lorentzen

Pottery by Carrie (Carrie Tipperreiter, that is)

This is a great time of year to get out to local holiday art and craft shows, take in some holiday music at a venue near you. And save time to use your own creativity to decorate your home for the holidays, cook up some tasty cuisine and enjoy the season with whatever fulfills you.

Architectural Interests

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Wickford, Rhode Island church

My twin sister and I walked the village streets of Wickford, Rhode Island one stellar day in October. The conversation went like this, “Oh, Sue, look at the dental molding on that house!”

“Don’t you love the classic design of these historical homes?”

“How about the eyebrow window on that place. Don’t you just love it?”

“Jan,” I said, “See the beautiful white steeple in the distance? The church has got to be just as beautiful. Let’s swing around and see it.”

We’d both stop in our tracks at the same time when we spied a beautiful harbor view behind a house and exclaim the prime setting, or ooh and ahh over a beautiful garden or a picture-worthy old home.

Yep! That’s how we roll. Such is the verbal exchange of two daughters of a five generation family of builders who find just looking at houses and churches more satisfying than going into a lovely jewelry store and buying. And we both hold the same opinion – cozy and diminutive holds our fancy as much as big nests.

Wickford Charmers

Lovely visit I had to the community village of Wickford, Rhode Island. My sister and I were so busy walking down the lovely lanes and streets, we entered into only one of it’s beautiful shops and none of the restaurants. We’d brought a picnic lunch and sat by the harbor. But, that is ok! It gives me a reason to go back next time I am in the neighborhood of this historic town which is just a leap over a bridge near Newport and Middletown, Rhode Island.

Life is what you make it. Find your own path to fulfillment. ~ Anonymous

Angels Across the Fence

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As with most authors, with each publication I’ve penned, I’ve had “Angels Across the Fence” who have helped sell books by recommending my publication as being a “good read.” Some of those angels, I’ve known exactly who they are because they’ve told me they passed the word on about my writing. And to those I do not know, I am extremely grateful for their recommendation to their friends, neighbors and other book lovers.

We all need cheerleaders in our lives so, when I see an artists work in other mediums I really like, I enjoy sharing with others. One such artist I met last week at The Farmers Daughter  in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. She was out for a splendid day of plein air painting. We had a very pleasant conversation and from what I could see from her yet to be finished watercolor, she has much talent. Patricia Varon mentioned she maintains a studio in Wickford, RI and she gave me her card which was devoid of a website. I located her website, however, little information was available. It could be that it is still in development. I suppose I should not have been surprised.

“For a long, long time,” she said, “I was unable to do what I really wanted to do, and now I can paint every single day, and I do! She essentially said she really doesn’t want to spend time with anything other than her brushes, paint and easel and her painting group. They paint in all kinds of weather outdoors but if it is really nasty they head to Providence to the Botanical Center which is New England’s largest glasshouse display garden in the heart of Roger Williams Park.

Patricia Varon (artist)
Varon’s landscape subject

“You ought to go to Wickford, she said. It is such a charming little village with a beautiful harbor and other artists.” It was on my sister’s list of places to take me, so we did and had a delightful time.

After my chat with Patricia Varon, I became a bit pensive when I thought about how many very talented artists go undiscovered. I hope she is not one of them, so, the least I can do is be an angel across the fence and post this picture of her at The Fabulous Farmers Daughter, which provided a wealth of perfect spots to paint from.

Pleased to meet you Patricia Varon! I sure enjoyed our conversation about your watercolor and pastel art. And Wickford was every bit the picture you painted for me through your words about the charming community! More about Wickford, Rhode Island to come!

Holiday Books

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Happy December 1st everyone. Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I recently began spending time at the Charles W. Lightner Library, a Christian Community Library. What a wonderful assortment of titles – currently 6,300 but who is counting? The number is constantly increasing as new books are acquired.

As I browse the shelves, I see so many titles perfect for family reading. The chances of the whole family being on the same page together when it comes to faith and spirituality is increased when Christian book titles are on the bookshelves of the family library.

Here are two publications which will reinforce your family’s determination to put the focus back into Christmas where it belongs. Pre-holiday reading is recommended!

  • 7 Days of Christmas: The Season of Generosity by Jen Hatmaker
  • Advent Conspiracy by Rick McKinley, Chris Seay and Greg Holder

You, too, can join in on the Advent Conspiracy. I have! I’m participating in a group discussion with the local United Methodist Church in Bel Air.

Keep your eye on AllThingsFulfilling.com.  In the New Year there will be more recommended titles because there are genres of books that can make a world of difference to individuals and family alike who want to live more fulfilling lives. Click here for one more title to add to this short list! There is a meaningful chapter about Christmas in it you will not want to miss.

Post Script:  Ever since I entered the media world as a blogger and writer ten years ago, I have taken about a two-week hiatus, through the holidays, from posting writings. This year it will be a little different. I am dedicating myself to a whole month of quietly observing the holy season and to the renewal of spirit. When the New Year rolls around, 2020!! I will be refreshed and rejuvenated.

Merry Christmas to You and to Yours.

 

Observations En Plein Air

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For me, plein air painting is about taking home memories – contemplating the subject with all senses. Smell, touch, temperature, weather – the feeling of warm sun or the start of a rainstorm, for example – and sound. ~ Melissa Jean

On October 6th, despite the calendar indicting fall had arrived, the lingering pleasant temperatures were perfect for a day of painting “en plein air” for artists who had gathered at Liriodendron Mansion.  It was a cloudy day but there was no biting chill in the air. The setting for day one of a week long plein air painting festival sponsored by the Harford Plein Air Painters and Maryland State Arts Council, was a great venue.

The property was purchased in 1890 and the Palladian mansion “Liriodendron” was built as a summer home to Dr. Howard Kelly, his wife and nine children. He was one of the founding fathers of Johns Hopkins Medical College. Artist John Singer Sargent left a legacy painting for the college a long time ago when he painted Dr. Kelly along with the other the founding physicians. For more information on Dr. Kelly and his home, please visit this writing called Perfect Timing.

As I walked the beautiful and expansive grounds of Liriodendron Mansion (originally 196 acres but now about 100 acres) with tall tulip popular trees towering over me, and their pungent, earthy-odored, crunchy dried leaves beneath my feet, I watched artists paint. I became increasingly more excited about new art-related opportunities that will come with a move to Harford County and for a new season of life.

The day reminded me of one the most fabulous plein air painting experiences I have ever had the pleasure to witness on an outstanding ranch just before I moved from Colorado back to my native Maryland, two years ago, after a forty year absence. That day was also cloudy but it was also a joy-filled day. Here is a link to the blog if you are interested in reading about Harvesting Others Joy and seeing some wonderful pictures of the experience and the artists.

Here are a few photos from last week’s plein air festival in Harford County, Maryland. There were some wonderful works in progress. If you have never been to a plein air festival, do so! It is a great way to learn a little something about art and about the creative people behind the art!

Photo above & below: Artist Ray Ewing

(Pictured below: Artist Sandhya Sharma. She is originally from India and I enjoyed talking with her about her

her observations of art opportunities and the art connections she has made in America)

(Below: Artist Pamela Wilde is also a portrait artist. She recently participated in a community portraiture project in nearby Havre de Grace. Click here to read more about it.)

(Above: Artist painting indoors surrounded by archival Johns Hopkins medical ephemera of Dr. Howard Kelly)

Below: A few images on display and for sale from various other venues.

Artists are members of the Harford Plein Air Painters

Liriodendron (aka tulip poplar trees) are not quite yet in their full autumn splendor. But soon….as God intends it.

 

Protect and Defend Wholesome Values

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Sue Batton Leonard's avatarAll Things Fulfilling

unity in spirti

Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. ~ Mattie Stepanek

The mission behind All Things Fulfilling has been always been a multi-media approach to sharing information about things that make my heart zing – what fills my heart with joy and happiness. That includes information on what has become my career and passion since 1998 – independent publishing.

I seldom make strong statements on All Things Fulfilling because we don’t need another platform on which to air controversial opinions all for the sake of being heard.

This statement I am going to make is about valuing human life and it really doesn’t matter where you stand politically. We need people in this country to discover and fill open spaces in their hearts with what brings them personal fulfillment, not evil and violence.

Dr. Ben Carson recently said about the recent occurrences in Charleston, South Carolina that the

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