Everyone is talking about the unusual weather here in Coastal Georgia.  We all know that April showers bring May flowers, but when the temperature is in the 60’s during the day in late April it does cause some question.

Is this global warming at its best…..

Is climate change a reality…..

Wanda Guyton McCartney

I’m not even going to try to address those issues.  I’m enjoying the cooler weather as long as I can!

Michael Croft

Soon enough, it will be hot, humid and sweltering.  We’ll be spending time on the beach and soaking in the sun.  As for me, my garden has never looked better and I enjoy a bit of the rain and time to snuggle in and write.  The first in my “Moonflowers Saga” is well underway and I’ve got lots to crow about with the release of “Emmeline At Commander’s Palace”!  No complaints will be heard from me.  I’m embracing nature and going with the flow!

Happy Thursday ya’ll!  Focus on Joy!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 30th, 2015 | No Comments »

It’s that time of year again!  Trackapalooza is coming this Friday, May 1st!  What is THAT you may ask.  This is a fundraising event where students run laps and get friends and family to sponsor them.

Staci Bennett, event coordinator, has this to say about the event in her press release:

All proceeds this year will be used to open an Ocean Lab at St. Simons Elementary. Students will

have an opportunity to conduct hands-on science experiments and activities that will allow them to explore

our diverse coastal environment.Trackapalooza has raised over $35,000 in the past 3 years. Please help us reach our goal of $15,000 this year.

It promises to be a great day with food, drinks and music performed by local groups, The Stringrays, Pier Pressure and Squirt Gun.

The fun begins at 4:00 pm and lasts until 7:00 in the evening.  Plan to join in and support this great event and it’s purpose!  Admission is free!

For more information email Staci Bennett:  staci.bennett@glynn.k12.ga.us or call her at (912)638-2851 ext. 2331

Melissa | Out&About | 04 29th, 2015 | No Comments »

Ode To Wax Ligustrum

Oh dear beautiful plant, why do you torment me so?

Your lovely white blooms, so delicate and fragrant,

your many varieties and sizes bring me such woe!

I weep on the day you appear,

sure that my sniffles soon will be here!

So glorious in your natural display,

why. oh why can I not enjoy your show?

Soon you will be gone, no longer will I need

kleenex in every nook and cranny, at the ready

when endless fits of sneezing take hold.

Oh, dear wax ligustrum,

I wait on your decline

so a clear head can,

once again,

be mine!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 28th, 2015 | 3 Comments »

Tomorrow is a red letter day in every way for me!  My writing career and dreams of being published will finally come true.  I’m busy interacting with book stores in New Orleans, setting up book signings and making plans to be a various book festivals.  At the top of that list is the annual Decatur Book Festival, one of the largest book festivals in the country.

I’m becoming more and more aware of the importance of organization as all of this begins to happen!  In an effort to continue feeding my family healthy meals that are EASY to prepare, I’ve begun a list of menus that have been delicious over the past month or so.

I’ve kept it quick and simple.  In some cases, if a meal includes meat, it may be something I pick up at Southern Soul or a rotisserie chicken.  I’m letting my imagination fly and striving to provide the best I can!

There are Polynesian Chicken Kabobs on the menu, always a pleaser!

Pinterest

Grouper Tacos with Asian Slaw…..

Pinterest

Ina Garten’s yummy Parmesan Chicken topped with a fresh Arugula salad….

Pinterest

Black Bean Tostados and more.

You’ll be seeing some affiliate programs added to the side bar of my site over the next few weeks as well.  I have selected sites with the finest products to offer my readers as well as magazines and other goodies you’ll enjoy!  So, operation organization begins!  I’m breathing deeply and centering myself while saying a big THANK YOU every day!

My journey is off to a great beginning!  Join me and share the excitement!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 27th, 2015 | 1 Comment »

My friend, Holly, is half Cherokee Indian.  I have learned many things from her about the Cherokee, their beliefs and history that always intrigue me.  She shared the Cherokee Morning Song with me one day last spring when we traveled together to a writer’s conference in Alabama.  The haunting sound is so beautiful and the words, when translated, so simple.  “A we n'” (I am), “de” (of), “Yauh” –the– (Great Spirit), “Ho” (it is so)….I AM of the Great Spirit, it is so.  This tribe has so much history all over our area, their imprint can never be forgotten and one day, I hope to go with Holly to her people’s land in North Carolina.  In the meantime I find myself humming this tune in the mornings as my day gets going.  It gives me a sense of peace…..and that is what I wish for you today!  Peace to all!

Melissa | Simple Sundays | 04 26th, 2015 | 1 Comment »

Sunday afternoon promises to be a great time at Glynn Academy Auditorium as CristoFouri performs!  Four accomplished pianists and a full program of music and other entertainment will delight the audience.  I had the pleasure of interviewing Jerry Gowan and Ed Barr on the show this week.  We had a great time talking about music, piano and the history of four men who have came together over forty years ago.  They perform together and maintain unbreakable ties of friendship that you’ll love hearing about!  Enjoy this lively converstation and plan to attend on Sunday at 3:00 pm.  This is a wonderful event for the whole family with tickets available at the door!

Melissa | On The Radio, people | 04 25th, 2015 | No Comments »

I’ve been experimenting with lighter fare now that the days are longer and the grill is set to go!  We love good Mexican food in my family.  Having been raised in Texas that is just a given!  Wednesday night was always the night to go to the local Mexican restaurant.  I continue the tradition, but normally prepare the meal here at home.  This particular recipe had everyone asking for MORE!  It’s simple and delicious!  Let me know if you try it

Fajita Quesadilla

1 pound of chicken tenderloin strips

1 green pepper, cleaned and cut into thin strips

1 Vidalia onion, peeled and thinly sliced

1 clove garlic, peeled and thinly sliced

1 jar red pepper jelly

2 cups shredded Colby/Jack cheese

Whole Wheat Flour Tortillas (2 per quesadilla)

Marinade:

juice of 1 lime

1/2 olive oil ( I use the extra virgin from Golden Isles Olive Oil)

1/2 teaspoon pink salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon Sangre de Cristo Spice Company Mexican blend (or substitute 1/4 tsp. ground cumin and 1/2 teaspoon good chili powder)

1 teaspoon dried, minced onion

1 garlic clove, peeled and minced

Mix the marinade in a glass bowl or measuring cup and pour it into a large zip lock bag.  Add the chicken tenderloins to the bag and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.  Heat your grill and cook the chicken strips, onion, peppers and garlic in a grill “wok” until the chicken is well browned.  Shred the chicken.  Keep the grill heated for the next step.  Spread pepper jelly on each tortilla.  Top with the chicken and veggie mix then top with the shredded cheese.  Top with a second tortilla that has been spread with pepper jelly as well.  Place the “quesadilla” back on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side.  Remove from the grill and cut in serving wedges.  These are so delicious and easy to make.  The perfect meal for a light, warm weather meal!

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining | 04 24th, 2015 | No Comments »

I am so excited to share the news I recently received from my friend and well known artist, Jennifer Broadus!  Art lovers all over the area are in for a real treat when ArtTrends opens its doors on May 1st!  ArtTrends is a group of nine uber talented local artists working cooperatively to bring their work into the public eye for all to see and enjoy.  Located at 3305 Frederica Road on St. Simons, you’ll find so many different styles and themes…..definitely something for everyone!

Ella Cart

Colorful Impressionism…..

Jennifer Broadus

A more traditional work that captures our local landscape…..

Dottie Clarke

Turtles on the move…..

Linda Wunder

Or perhaps something with a bit of Asian inspiration and beauty!

You’ll find so many fabulous pieces to add to your collection.  Art is the spice of life, it enlivens our home and work environments like nothing else!  I cannot wait to see the entire offering from so many talented artists!  Put May 1st on your calendar and plan to visit ArtTrends!  I think you’ll be delighted!

Melissa | people | 04 23rd, 2015 | 1 Comment »

I cannot think of anything more important than understanding and unity between all people.  Yes, we are different colors, with varied backgrounds, belief systems and values, but, when it comes down to it, we are all connected.  We carry within us the essence of creation and, as we awaken to this, we realize how vitally important it is for us to communicate and share with each other.

On Friday, April 24th, from 2 – 7 pm, Coastal College of Georgia will, once again, team up with the Robert S. Abbott Race Unity Institute in hosting 4th annual International Festival.

The event takes place outdoors and offers a full venue of entertainment as well as a market place and global food bazaar where you can experience all sorts of delicious offerings!

This is always a lively event with a great turn out of supporters who enjoy an afternoon of milling around through the grounds of the college and coming together with others to celebrate.

You’ll hear wonderful music by the Phil Morrison Trio, an African drummer and much more.

Make plans to attend and support this wonderful event!

Melissa | people | 04 22nd, 2015 | 1 Comment »

I love Spring….I love flowers…I love art and all things beautiful!  This week is packed full of the most amazing events to delight anyone who shares my passion for beauty of all kinds!  The Cassina Garden Club, in connection with Glynn Visual Arts has a very unique opportunity for you to visit, walk, explore and learn all about the arranging and painting of flowers as well as nature in all its glory!

Cassina Garden Club is hosting the “Tabby & Tillandsia Garden Walk” on Saturday, April 25th.   You can walk through several different gardens and breath in Spring!  Feel alive!  Feel inspired!

You may see chickens….

OR a shady spot to rest….

OR a wonderful view, there is something for everyone in this wonderful tour!  For tickets and more information please go here:  www.cassinagardenclub.org.

Glynn Visual Art joins in this Spring celebration with their event, Fine Arts And Flowers.  See wonderful arrangements paired with the most beautiful paintings that reflect the artist’s impressions!  The joy of this season in all its glory is captured in ways you may not have considered before!

Enjoy a champagne reception, “Bubbly and Bites” on the evening of the 23rd at 6PM at the new GVA building located at 106 Island Drive.  Then you won’t want to miss lunch in the Delegal Room at the fabulous King & Prince resort on the 24th as you  will enjoy Dan Belman & Randy Korando as they create amazing arrangements to delight and inspire you!  Dan and Randy are owners of Boxwood Gardens in Atlanta.  For more information and tickets go here:  www.glynnvisualarts.org.

What a fabulous time is in store!  Be sure to order your tickets today so you don’t miss out!  Spring is busting out all over!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 21st, 2015 | No Comments »