I read a wonderful post on a blog recently, it dealt with the concept of going quietly within to find the answers to life’s problems.  Having been meditating for decades, off and on, this got me to think about all of the stresses and issues I am faced with on a daily basis.  It is true that finding that quiet spot within, taking the time to stop and breathe deeply, then quietly asking for answers works.  I invite you to try it today.  There is a voice within that speaks truth to us when we allow it.   And for some soothing music to help you on your way go here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRjllL-MP0U  And to read the post I’ve mentioned go here:  http://www.linenandlavender.net/2013/06/seek-and-you-shall-find.html.   Silent = Listen…same letters, different order.  Have a wonderfully Simple Sunday!

Melissa | Simple Sundays | 06 30th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I received a box of goodies to sample from a company in New York City.  In it were all sorts of skin care products for the summer, for anti-aging (gotta love that) and for the hair.  I’ve been using these products for the past few weeks with wonderful results!  I’m sharing them with all of you today.

I’m loving these little golden “capsules” filled with Ceramide, an anti-aging elixir from Elizabeth Arden.  Pop one of these little treasures open and out comes a lovely, golden concoction of anti-aging goodies that even skin tone, perfect the appearance of the skin and actually reduce lines around the mouth, eyes….wherever you’re seeing the signs of aging.

Pur Cellin Oil – “Bio-Oil” is a hypoallergenic formula that blends plant oils as well as vitamins to improve the tone and moisture levels of the skin.  I’ve been using it as a moisturizer on my dry skin.  It is said to decrease the appearance of scars and stretch marks as well.  It is particularly soothing after spending time in the sun.  This affordable product has become a staple in my bathroom cabinet!  Try it and you’ll see why.

Prevage, triple defense shield from Elizabeth Arden, is a fabulous sunscreen product.  I love the tube with its brush for application.  Turn the top, give the tube a gentle squeeze and brush the product on you face, neck and upper chest.  Don’t forget the back of your neck.  I know I wear my hair up most of the summer and the back of my neck has to have attention with sunscreen and moisturizer as it gets plenty of sun when I’m at the beach or in my garden.  This product has served me well in filtering the harmful, burning rays of the sun out and leaving me with just a hint of color.  Bronzing powder can do the rest!

And then there are the effects of the summer sun and surf on hair.  Having naturally curly hair is always a huge challenge for me.  This product from Alterna – Caviar CC Cream is a ten in one corrective, leave-in conditioner for hair.  The smell is intoxicating and the results nothing short of miraculous.

And, last but certainly not least, a little sample of Davines Oil arrived in my June Birchbox.  Just a dab of this worked into the ends of dry hair has rejuvenating results that leave the hair moist and shiny.

The Elizabeth Arden products are available at Belk.  You’ll find “Bio-Oil” at most pharmacy’s like CVS and Walgreen’s.  Alterna’s Caviar CC Cream is available through Sephora http://www.sephora.com.  Find Davines Oil via Birchbox – http://www.birchbox.com/, you may want to subscribe for $10.00 a month and receive your own box of goodies each month!  For subscriptions go here:  http://birch.ly/11lkIfH.  If you live in an area where you cannot find these products go here:  www.beauty.com

Enjoy the summer sun and use products, no matter what your choice, that will protect, enhance and keep your skin healthy!  

Melissa | Shop! | 06 27th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

I meet interesting people everyday, no matter where I happen to be.  I’m writing about one such person today, Kathy Mashburn.  Kathy is not here in Coastal Georgia, she lives in Dalton, north of Atlanta.  We met at a writer’s conference last fall and have become friends, keeping in touch, almost on a daily basis by e-mail or on Facebook.  Ahhhh, Facebook, that’s a whole different subject.  It does help people remain connected and it’s a great way to promote and share one’s business.  Make sure to read all the way to the end of this post for a very special giveaway!

Kathy recently wrote a children’s book that is now published, “A Birthday Clown For Archer”.  Archer is Kathy’s grandson and he loves clowns.  But his mother does not.

Did you know there really is such a thing as clown phobia?  Not everyone is attracted to the funny characters who bounce around at the circus or dare the bulls at a rodeo to catch them.  The actual term is “Coulrophobia”.

In Kathy’s book she deals with the fact that Archer wants  a clown for his birthday.  His mother is not so thrilled.  He proceeds to talk to her about how funny clowns are, how silly their wigs and round red noses are, but most importantly the fact that they are just people with lots of makeup on.

I love the way Kathy deals with the phobia issue in her book.  Archer actually helps his Mom come to terms with her fear and realize it doesn’t serve her.  Out of the mouths of babes…..wisdom and an open heart win the day

With the help of illustrator, Jo Linsdell, Kathy has created a precious book that young children love.  And hot off the press is a coloring book so young readers can let their colorful imaginations go wild as they decide what colors the clown should be!

Kathy works with various school districts in their literacy programs and has other books ready to go to press to share with young readers.  Promoting literacy is a passion for Kathy, her books provide her with the perfect tool to help young readers turn on to books in a big way.

To read more about Kathy and to order a copy of “A Birthday Clown For Archer” visit: http://wiggywanda.com/.  You can also order the book through www.amazon.com – please leave a review if this is your option!  AND….Kathy has graciously offered to “giveaway” one book to a very lucky reader!  Leave a comment, subscribe to The Permanent Tourist, and a drawing will be held Thursday, June 27th.  Thanks Kathy!

Melissa | people | 06 25th, 2013 | 4 Comments »

I’ve always been an incurable romantic.  On this day of rest, sit back and listen to the theme from the movie “Somewhere In Time”……poignant and a bit sad, but so beautiful!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ezZqe5cVoXw…here’s another of Ken Wallin’s paintings that I couldn’t fit into my post on Wednesday.  I love his work!  Have a wonderful, relaxing day!

Market With Lemons Positiono, Italy

Melissa | Out&About | 06 23rd, 2013 | 3 Comments »

This post is structured differently than my previous entries. The start of summer is a harbinger of the Golden Isle’s allure. I often find myself snapping my camera to capture the moments I find most captivating. The following pictures encapsulate these moments.

John Updike once said, “Most of American life is driving somewhere and then driving back wondering why you went.” With St. Simons’ grandeur, I have never felt this way.

Melissa | Out&About | 06 22nd, 2013 | 10 Comments »

I’m taking it easy today.  The hot summer days make my appetite disappear.  But, we still have to eat!  I’ll be featuring some delicious cold soups and lighter menus along the way over the next three months.  In Coastal Georgia we have hot, steamy weather from now until mid September.  It calls for slowing down, really being on island time and savoring the special moments only summer can bring.  Mr. T and I find ourselves alone more and more often as my daughter becomes an independent young woman….unless, of course, she needs something….you know how it is.  On one such recent evening I really didn’t feel like cooking. I thawed some really good ground steak since Mr. T loves my blackened hamburgers.  I, not being much of a meat eater, opted for a bit of bruschetta to go with the main course.  We opened a bottle of wine and shared a delicious meal we both enjoyed.  Dining for two can be challenging, but it is possible…just get creative and go!

Blackened Cajun Bunless Burgers

Sauteed Vidalia Onions

Bruschetta

Pinot Noir

Blackened Cajun Bunless Burgers

1/2 pound (for two, increase as needed) ground steak, lean

2 teaspoons cajun seasoning (I use Sangre de Cristo Spice Company, available at Island Natural Foods or on line)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Divide the meat and make patties.  Season both sides of each patty with the cajun seasoning.  Heat the oil over medium heat, add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.  These can also be cooked on an outdoor grill.

Sauteed Vidalia Onions

2 large Vidalia onions, skin removed and sliced into 1/2 inch slices

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

French grey sea salt and pepper to taste

Heat the olive oil in a skillet, add the onion slices and cook until transparent and just beginning to brown.  Season with salt and pepper.  I use the onions as a “bed” and place the burger on top.

Bruschetta

1/2 baguette cut in 1/4 inch slices on the diagonal

olive oil to brush on the bread

1 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes, red, yellow and purple

1 cup fresh watercress, washed and chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, cut into chiffonade

French grey sea salt and pepper to taste

a bit of white balsamic vinegar, optional

1/2 cup shaved parmesan cheese

Heat the oven to 300 degrees.  Brush both sides of the sliced bread with olive oil and place on a sheet pan.  Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes, until the bread is toasted and just browning.

Combine the remaining ingredients in a small boll and toss well.  Pile the mixture on the slices of bread and sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese.

Here’s this weeks link to this weekend’s music scene in Coastal Georgia!  Thanks to Kathi Williams and her wonderful blog I’m With The Band SSI!  http://www.imwiththebandonssi.blogspot.com/

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining | 06 21st, 2013 | No Comments »

I met with Mark Gagliano to talk about this year’s trend in summer wines.  The heat is on here in Coastal Georgia with temperatures reaching into the 90’s and the humidity soaring.  If you love good wine like Mr. T and I do you may be wondering what is new, refreshing and perfect for a hot summer evening.  Mark, endearingly know as The Wine Guy at our local Harris Teeter, is an expert and I’m presenting five of the wines we discussed yesterday for your summer entertaining.

Casal Garcia’s Vinho Verde, a light, refreshing wine with a slight “spritz”, perfect with all of your summer favorites.  Pair it with melon and prosciutto, seafood, salads of all kinds…it holds its own deliciously!

Las Rocas’ Rose’.  Mark thinks Rose’ has gotten less attention than it deserves in recent years.  Making a good Rose’ involves leaving the skin on the fruit for less time than required in the making of a good red wine.  Rose’ can come from any wine producing country.  Las Rocas Rose’ is from Spain.  Mr. T and I sampled a bottle last night and I really enjoyed it.  We are big Pinot Noir fans so this was a bit different, but very tasty.  Again, it’s great on sipping on a hot afternoon or to accompany lighter summer fare.  You can also try uncorking the bottle, adding a sprig of fresh rosemary and replacing the cork for the afternoon as the wine chills to infuse the wine with a bit of the herbs flavor.

Bex Riesling.  This delicious white wine has an undertone of pear and peach….yummy!  It is a bit on the sweeter side and goes well with fruit and cheese platters, sweet Georgia shrimp salad, almost any lighter fish dish or on its own with some frozen green grapes thrown in for decoration.  Light and fruity for a hot summer lunch or dinner.

Meiomi Pinot Noir.  This is at the top of my list.  We enjoyed a bottle of this at dinner the other night when friends brought it to go with a Paella dinner I prepared.  We dined al fresco and this wine was absolute perfection.  A bit fruity but light and so full of flavor.  Chill it a bit before serving and enjoy.

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio.  This is an old favorite of mine from my New York City days.  I used to buy it by the case during the summer.  It is light, a bit dry and so perfect with an antipasto platter, cold shellfish, veal piccata, perfect paired with pizza Margherita.

Savigny Les Beaume Pinot Noir.   This is one of the Cadillac’s in the Pinot Noir world.  This fine wine comes from the Burgundy region of France.  Full bodied, yet still light and perfect for a warm evening.  Again, try chilling it a bit before serving.

Mark says it’s about style not brand when it comes to a good wine.  Prices range anywhere from $9.99 on up.  And it isn’t about price….that does not define a good wine.  I think a great idea for summer entertaining is a wine tasting party where appetizers are paired with various wines, guests find their favorites and votes are cast.  It’s fun for everyone!

Don’t forget about spritzers either.  Mark suggests mixing your wine with sparkling water instead of seltzer.  He also gave me a tip I never thought of.  The next time I’m having pizza I’m going to order a glass of white zinfandel to test his theory that this is a great pairing.  Since he has never steered me wrong in wine selecting I’m sure this will be something new to enjoy and add to my list! A Votre Sante’!

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining | 06 20th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

A true artist lives their work.  Many people may dabble at art from time to time.  There is actually a book written about the resistance many artists have toward their work, “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield.

Beach House at Martha’s Vineyard

When I met with Ken Wallin and he began to tell me his story I knew I was with someone who gets it….who lives for art.

Sailing The Atlantic

Ken shared a bit about his childhood with me, growing up in the midwest, spending time on Lake Michigan and sketching, always sketching…..choosing his art over a game of cards or time out with the boys.

Dog Walking Along Spring Street – Soho, NYC

After receiving his PhD in psychology he began his practice in earnest, living in the Chicago area and dedicating his life to his family and his clients.

Marsh Expression

His wife, Judy, and he both share a love for the water.  They realized that they were in danger of winding up like so many others, working, working, working and not living or savoring life as they so longed too.  They began to explore, to look for a place where they could both work but also enjoy life with their two daughters.

Night Coming On The Marsh

When they found St. Simons Island and work that was available through the Glynn County School district their decision was made.  Ken spent 27 years working with special needs and troubled children.  He never left his art behind, studying with Bill Hendris on Monday nights and using art as therapy with the children  he worked with who so desparately needed a way to express their emotions.

Casting A Net For A Shrimp Dinner

An Afternoon At The Cafes

Sensing that art is something that comes from within Ken set out to live his work.  He and Judy spent a month in central France living an artist’s life, enjoying the fine wines, cheeses and breads of the region where they stayed.  He found that the French love artists and he loved being there to express himself daily through his work.  Ken and Judy rode their bikes all over the countryside, experiencing every element they encountered.  He studied with Ted Jacobs who lived in the area and taught in a barn on his property that he had turned into a studio.  Teachers always inspired Ken to go further, they gave him the information he needed to paint in his own style.

Plating The Dishes

Their journey’s around the world have continued as Ken’s artwork evolves with each new adventure.  Be it Europe, Africa or Coastal Georgia, Ken creates works of art that inspire and drive art lovers to add his work to their collections.  Much of his work reflects the lifestyle of the places he travels, the food, the wildlife, the people.

Villa Retreat Lake Como

His next show will be in January at the Glynn County Art Center when his work will be displayed with that of Peggy Everett and other artists’.

A Sunflower Experience

I asked Ken what the most thrilling experience has been thus far and he said that without doubt it was standing in the very place Vincent Van Gogh stood to paint “The Bridge”.  He didn’t try to duplicate that work but, instead, chose to paint the field of sunflowers and a barn that were on the property behind the bridge.  He took Van Gogh’s work a step further, in a way.

Lemon Tree and Shadows, A Study

View more of Ken’s artwork on his website:  http://wallingallery.com.  The pictures I have featured here come from the site as my photographs just did not do justice to his fine work!  Here’s to you Ken…for your art, for your care, for your view of the world, but most of all…for the heart and soul you express every day.

Melissa | people | 06 19th, 2013 | No Comments »

Sometimes you just need a day to float down the river.  In this case, it is the Frederica River.

With the help of our son-in-law from Atlanta we successfully launched our boat and the family climbed on board.  I think we provided a bit of comic relief as onlookers, all seasoned boat people, got a giggle from watching our antics.

Once on board, we launched the boat onto the river and headed north.

The marshes along the river are so beautiful and green right now.

We passed Fort Frederica, the first settlement built by James Oglethorpe, that dates back to the 1700’s.

We continued on, enjoying all of the natural beauty of our area.

I returned feeling completely relaxed and bathed with sun and water spray that hit us as we encountered a bit of turbulence on the way back.

Skylar proved to be a sea worthy captain and received applause from all for successfully docking the boat and helping get it back on the trailer for our return home.  What a serious face….hates having her picture taken.

What better way to end a wonderful family weekend than a sunset walk at Gould’s Inlet on East Beach.

Family is what matters most and time together….no price can be put on that.

For information on boat rentals and excursions you can enjoy when visiting the Golden Isles read more here:  http://www.morningstarmarinas.com

Melissa | Out&About | 06 18th, 2013 | No Comments »

There are certain fragrances that just shout SUMMER to me!  I recently received a box of goodies from the wonderful people at Elizabeth Arden in New York City.  I remember Red Door Perfume, but not the new Aura Collection.  This fragrance is so sensual, yet refreshing!  With top notes of Raspberry and bergamot, middle notes of orange flower, rose and jasmine and a finish of creamy amber, sandalwood and musk….the scent it intoxicating!  It’s only been on the market since October 2012….it is the perfect summer Eau de Toilette!

Then Clinique’s fragrance….”Happy”!  It smells like it sounds.  I have a friend who wears this scent and it always lifts my spirits when I see her….Happy!  A chic, modern multi-layered floral with the sparkling, lingering fragrance of ruby red grapefruit, boysenberry bush flower, and Hawaiian wedding flower…..it even sounds yummy!

muelhens_no4711_1930

One of my favorite summer scents is a tried and true brand known by many and used by both women and men….4711….keep it cool in the refrigerator and enjoy its crisp note of rosemary, citrus and other herbal blends not shared by the manufacturer.  4711 was first introduced to the world in 1792 as legend has it when a Carthusian monk made the concoction as a wedding gift for Wilhelm Muelhens.  It was called a “miracle water” and in 1803 Muelhens bought the right to manufacture the fragrance from Carlo Francesco Farina.  It’s been making history ever since.

I can’t leave out Dior’s Eau Sauvage…a fragrance marketed for men, but I love to wear it in the summer.  Another citrus blend that cools and awakens the senses when sprayed on the skin.

Summer is all about pleasure and enjoyment.  Treat yourself to one of these fine fragrances and discover how light and refreshed they will make you feel!

Melissa | Out&About | 06 17th, 2013 | 1 Comment »