I will always be the first to admit that I am not a great golfer!  But I truly love the game, the frustration and challenge of it as well as the satisfaction when I actually hit a good shot!

But what I love most of all is being out on the course, surrounded by nature.

The King & Prince Golf Resort has to be one of the most beautiful courses I have ever been on.

It is situated at the north end of St. Simons Island with spectacular views of the marshes and the wildlife that dwells there.

At one time this was the site of the famous Hampton Plantation, known for it’s cotton production.  Now, golf reigns supreme, on this course that underwent a complete renovation in 2009, making it one of the South’s finest courses.

This is a Par 72 course that winds through the coastal marshlands, crosses gently winding bridges and provides the best golf experience for members and guests alike.

Speaking of local wildlife, we saw a Bald Eagle feeding it’s eaglets in a nest high atop a tree that stands to the right of one of the greens at marshes edge.

On St. Simons Island we are blessed with a climate that makes golf possible anytime of the year.

If you’re coming to visit the island make reservations to stay at the King & Prince Resort.  It’s ocean side, you’ll be driven to the golf course for your tee time and whisked back to the resort in time for cocktails on the beach as the sun sets in the Western sky.  It can’t get any better than that!

You’ll find more information on the King & Prince Golf Resort here:  http://www.kingandprince.com/

Melissa | people | 07 9th, 2013 | No Comments »

I posted about The Farm at Oatland North over a month ago.

Oatland is that special retreat where animals go to retire that is run by Barbara Murrah and her family.  Once the site of a thriving plantation, it is now a place where rescued and retired animals of all kinds can go to be safe and cared for, to live out their lives.

But Barbara Murrah is not able to continue supporting the farm financially since being diagnosed with Leukemia.  She continues to undergo aggressive therapy that will continue for months, leaving her weak and unable to carry own her career as an intensive care nurse.  Her career is what has funded the farm thus far.

I attended a fundraiser yesterday for the farm.  Bennie’s Red Barn opened its doors to friends and supporters of the Murrah family.

A great Southern summer afternoon was had by all as fried chicken was served up and a one man Reggae band filled the air with lively music.

In true St. Simons Island style donations flowed to help insure the farm can continue.

For information on what you can do to help, please visit:  http://www.thefarmssi.com/.

Barbara and Natalie

Wishing Barbara Murrah a complete recovery and a return to the work she loves.

Melissa | people | 07 8th, 2013 | No Comments »

The prefix Paleo stands for old, ancient and prehistoric.  But the newest diet to hit the top of the charts, The Paleo Diet, is anything but that!  In fact, I think the word diet is really inappropriate for this eating program that has people slimming down, toning up and feeling better than ever.

I met with Charlie Young when I visited Cross Fit Grit last week.  Charlie is another picture of health!  He shared his journey to health with me, even a picture of him pre-Paleo when he was fifty pounds overweight (He’s the guy on the far right).  The change in his physical appearance and the way he feels having shed those excess pounds is nothing short of miraculous!

The Paleo diet, to put it simply, is an eating program that emphasizes lean animal protein that is either locally raised and grass fed or fresh/wild caught.

Lots of fresh vegetables, even for breakfast!

Fresh fruits, and nuts of all types.  Organic, locally grown and seasonal is the way to go when selecting what to eat.  The theory of this diet is that as you break the habit of eating grains and sugar, your body will transition into a fat burning machine.

From the looks of Charlie Young, I’d say it’s true!  I’m gradually easing into the 80/20 version of the program and seeing how it makes me feel…..stay tuned!

If you’re interested in reading more about the Paleo eating program go to:  http://www.marksdailyapple.com/ or http://robbwolf.com/shop/products/the-paleo-solution-the-original-human-diet/.

And here’s the link to Cross Fit Grit once again if you want to make an appointment to meet with Charlie or Todd Thompson and get your own transformation going!  http://www.crossfitgrit.com/

Melissa | people | 07 3rd, 2013 | 5 Comments »

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 »

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 »

There are many, many artists in our area using oil paints, acrylics and other mediums.  Today I am posting about Marion Snyder, who creates with oil paints, but her work with pastels is what caught my eye.  Marion has been involved with art since childhood.  Raised in Augusta, Georgia, she placed in art shows during her early school years, studied fine arts in college and realized that portraits are what she really loves to do.

Her portraits of both children and beloved pets are so lifelike, Mr. T. actually thought this one was a photograph.

Marion continues working and studying to perfect her skills as a portrait artist.  She recently attended a workshop with Marc Chatov, the well known artist,  whose work combines classical realism with Russian impressionism.  Marion shared her experience working with Marc Chatov when we met.  In his workshops Mr. Chatov encourages students to reveal the unseen, to show their passion through their work, to make visual what may seem hidden by capturing the light within the subject matter.

In Marion’s work you can see this influence.  Her portraits glow with an inner light that brings them to life.  Whether she is working in oil, which she does in many of her animal portraits or the pastels she uses to create her portraits of children, Marion captures the inner essence of her subject matter masterfully.

Left Bank Art Gallery represents Marion Snyder.  Her work can be seen on display at the gallery as well as through her site:  Marionpsnyder.blogspot.com.

Portraits remain a very important part of the art world, a part photography cannot replace.  When Marion Snyder creates a portrait, she gives a family an irreplaceable heirloom to be treasured and enjoyed for generations to come.

To contact Marion Snyder for commissioned work please call Left Bank Art Gallery at (800) 336-9469 or (912) 638-3017.

Melissa | people | 06 12th, 2013 | 4 Comments »

I am pleased to welcome Angela Wigger today!  Angela is the Director of Tourism in St. Mary’s, Georgia.  Please enjoy her post on a wonderfully historic town!

Historic St. Marys, Georgia offers picturesque streets lined with centuries old live-oaks draped in Spanish moss and the restorative beauty of pristine waterways and marshes. Quaint shops, charming restaurants, and comfortable lodging options await you in this very captivating water-side community. The city prides itself on a diverse blend of residents and has sustained a rich and varied history through the prosperity of the railroad, shrimping boats, and the paper mill and through the arrival of the National Park Service and the Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base.  With numerous Bed & Breakfasts, hotels and rental houses to choose from you can find the perfect location for your needs whether it’s a military reunion, family vacation or romantic get-away. To learn about the lodging options visit http://www.stmaryswelcome.com/lodgingV2.html.

Bird blind at the Crooked River state. Park Photo credit Georgia DNR

St. Marys is the eco-tourists dream with biking, kayaking and bird-watching in areas like the St. Mary River, Crooked River State Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore.

Photo credit Up The Creek Xpeditions

St. Marys is a real water lovers paradise. For a real close-to-nature experience visit Up The Creek Xpeditions at www.upthecreekx.com. With advance reservations, you can take a tour and visit the flora and fauna of the St. Marys harbor, Crooked Rivers’ Cherry Point, Cumberland Island, the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge and more.

History timeline in welcome center

The St. Marys Welcome Center offers an experiential environment, with a history timeline of the area, a coastal marsh scene mural and a scavenger hunt for the kids.  Guests can also take advantage of free wireless internet serves or even use a guest computer in the center.

St. Marys Film Museum exhibit. Photo credit St. Marys Convention & Visitors Bureau

The St. Marys Welcome Center is also home to the St. Marys Film Museum which offers a free admission display room housing some favorite pieces of memorabilia from Sea Biscuit to Royal Pains.

During your visit, make time for our antebellum house-museum called Orange Hall, the Oak Grove Cemetery, and the St. Marys Submarine Museum, where the history and sacrifice of the submarine force are highlighted within 5,000 square feet of displays featuring shipboard equipment, a control panel and a working periscope.

Shopping is fun and unique with spots like Market on the Square, The Golden Pineapple, ORCA’s and Lulu’s Redstar.  You will find several bookstores and two antique and collectible’s mall’s to ensure you come away the perfect item.

Great dining options abound with many options to choose from. Options, like The Blue Goose Wine and Coffee Shop with its comfortable indoor and outdoor seating options, are perfect any time of the day and there are some great coastal cuisine picks where you can get the best in grouper, shrimp and scallops.

You may decide to relax with the locals in our local saloon where everyone is always welcome and you may find that you get a bit of “southern sass” from our favorite bartender.

Pauly’s Café is a quaint spot that specializes in American and Italian.  Great spot for lunch or dinner while in town.

Plum Orchard Mansion on Cumberland Island

Of course, St. Marys is the “Gateway to Cumberland Island.”  The ferry departs St. Marys to take you the 45 minutes by passenger ferry to the Cumberland Island National Seashore, now in its 40th year as national seashore. There are no shops or restaurants on the island.  This is Nature and Adventure in its purest form.  Bring a day-pack and a lunch and enjoy walking the island or sign up for the motorized “Land & Legacies” tours.  These guided “north end tours” are given by park service staff and allow visitors to cover much more of the island than what they could see hiking on their own for a day trip.  Sites may include Plum Orchard, the First African Baptist Church and the Stafford Plantation site.  The tour begins once you arrive on the island, at 9:45 a.m., lasts approximately 6 hours and space is limited.  Cumberland Island was listed as one of the “Best US Southern Islands” by Travel Channel in January 2013.  Advance reservations a strongly recommended for the Cumberland Island ferry and the Lands & Legacies tours.  Visit www.nps.gov/cuis for reservation information.

As you begin to plan a visit to historic St. Marys or to Cumberland Island, contact the St. Marys Convention & Visitors Bureau for travel assistance and information.  We can be reached at 1-866-868-2199, info@stmaryswelcome.com or www.stmaryswelcome.com.

Melissa | food & entertaining, people, Shop! | 06 11th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

I lived on Jekyll Island for a couple of years.  It is quiet and serene, almost like going back in time to a much simpler life.  If you drive north on Riverview Drive, you come to Horton House.  The ruins of a home that once stood as a symbol of wealth now stand, preserved in time.  Built by Major William Horton, who was second in command under General James Oglethorpe during colonial time, Major Horton cleared the land at the north end of Jekyll and built this structure.

He also  cut the first road across Jekyll Island, creating a sandy lane that can still be traveled today.

When the Spaniards invaded southern Georgia, Horton House was one of their targets.  In 1742, when the invasion occurred,  many structures were burned on both Jekyll and St. Simons Island.  Horton House was constructed of tabby which is a mixture of oyster shells, that are burned down to create lime.  The lime is mixed with broken shells, sand and water to create a sturdy material for building.  The house and barn were burned in the attack, along with other structures, leaving nothing but Tabby Ruins.

The DuBignon family rebuilt Horton House.  Sea Island cotton and other crops were grown on the Horton Plantation for decades.  In 1886 the property was bought by The Jekyll Island Club and became a part of the playground for the ultra rich and powerful.

The DuBignon graveyard is across Riverview from Horton House.  The graves sit peacefully within tabby walls on the edge of the marsh, the epitaphs still readable, etched in the heavy stone markers.

This past Saturday the 7th annual Horton House Living History Event took place, where participants got a look back in time, a time when Jekyll Island played a huge role in the British survival in Georgia.  This annual event gives a glimpse of what life was like for settler’s in colonial Georgia.

Jekyll Island continues to provide a relaxing place to get away, vacation, ride on the extensive bike paths and experience its very important history.  For more information on Jekyll Island visit:  www.jekyllisland.com.

And at the end of your day, make your way to the wide veranda of the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel for a soothing mint julep while you watch the sun go down on beautiful coastal Georgia!

Melissa | people | 06 10th, 2013 | 14 Comments »

I usually present my readers with a menu for entertaining on Friday.  Today, I’m sharing a product line.  AND, I’m sharing something new to The Permanent Tourist!  Kathi Williams’ www.imwiththebandonssi.blogspot.com  Readers may recognize Kathi’s name from her time with Coastal Illustrated and her current position with Elegant Island Living.  Kathi has the most up to the minute news on what’s happening musically on any given weekend.  Scroll to the bottom of this post for the connection!

Tom Carroll, President

Sunset Farm Foods has been doing business since 1918.  What began as a small business, Flasher’s Meat Market, located in Valdosta, Georgia,  has evolved and become the thriving company it is today.  Still family owned, Sunset Farm has made their mark and now offers their product line for sale nationwide via their website, http://sunsetfarmfoods.com.

The people at Sunset Farm sent me some sausage to sample.  We grilled them for our Memorial Day get together this past Monday and everyone raved about them!  You can taste the fresh ingredients and juicy goodness with the perfect “snap” when you take your first bite.  I especially liked the smoked sausage with black peppercorns……just the right amount of spice!

I put some barbecued chicken on the grill alongside the sausages and it was still on the platter at the end of the party……..so much for chicken!

You’ll find the complete line of sausages and other fine products on the website.  These people know what they’re doing and the product line is full of good things….there are a few “fan” products like this cute apron.

Paired with a bun, some sauerkraut and my beloved Zatarain’s Creole Mustard…..it was soooooo yummy!  As they say at Sunset Farm….”Taste The Goodness Of The South!”  You’ll love ’em ya’ll!

Sunset Farm Foods, Inc. 1201 Madison Hwy, Valdosta, GA 31603, (800) 882-1121, www.sunsetfarmfoods.com

There’s so much going on all over the Golden Isle’s on any given weekend!  Go here:  http://imwiththebandonssi.blogspot.com to read all about what’s happening this weekend!   Get to know Kathi and enjoy!

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining, people | 05 31st, 2013 | No Comments »

Moncrief’s….a name known on St. Simons Island for fashion excellence for more than 25 years.

I met with Lisa Crumbley, owner, along with her lovely husband, Josh.  They’ve been calling the Moncrief name theirs for close to a decade.

Lisa’s passion for this business is evident the moment you enter the doors of her shop in Redfern Village.

Colorful vignettes line the walls, artfully designed and crying “BUY ME!”

This is true shopping therapy!

A complete summer wardrobe can be found within these walls.   Lisa is the perfect person to consult with as you put it all together.

You’ll find  labels like Tribal, Lotus, Softworks, Pleats and Miracle Body just to name a few.

And then there’s Buster Brown, the Crumbley’s precious poodle.  Love!

Visit Moncrief’s and mention The Permanent Tourist for a 10% discount on your purchase!

Moncrief’s – 261 Redfern Vilage – St. Simons Island, GA – 912-634-1234 – Monday – Saturday 10-6

Melissa | people, Shop! | 05 30th, 2013 | 2 Comments »