There are times in our lives when we meet someone with amazing talent.  When I met with Peggy Everett last week I immediately knew I was in for a treat.  Peggy is not only one of the most talented artists I have ever met, she is a genuine person.  I immediately felt a kindred spirit when I saw her book collection….I know it’s wrong to covet, but anyone who loves fine books would find it difficult not too!

The passion Peggy has for painting is evident on every canvas hanging in her home/studio.

She captures the essence of a horse, it’s coat glowing with a light that has haunting irridescence.  Peggy’s attention to detail is masterful.

Her knowledge and use of the “Plein Air” method of painting particularly attracted my attention.  “Plein Air” is the French term for painting outdoors.  This method became wildly popular during the French Impressionist period when artists like Monet and Renoir painted outdoors, bringing the light of nature into their famous works.

If someone asked me to describe Peggy Everett I would have to say that she is a Renaissance Woman.  Her interests go beyond painting and artwork to cooking, horseback riding, travelling, golf, bridge and fine wines…oh, and that book collection….I could sit for hours, literally, devouring each one!  She constantly feeds her natural curiosity and zest for living.  She is, to put it simply, ageless.

Peggy offers instruction to private students as well as to groups.  You can find out more about these classes on her website:  http://www.peggyeverett.com/index.html.  You’ll also be able to view more of her fabulous paintings on the site.

Peggy’s paintings of horses and dogs are spectacular.  She captures the essence of the animal in a way that brings life to the canvas.

She was raised in Atlanta, Georgia and began her instruction in painting at the age of 15.  She studied with the Shatoff’s, well-known portrait artists.  She also sold her first painting at the age of 15, a true phenom from the very beginning.  Peggy went on to build her career as an artist of note as she studied abstract painting in New York City.  Most recently she studied at the Academy of Fine Art in Florence, Italy.  She continues to grow and stretch her boundaries in a way that provides her artist’s eye with inspiration and fresh ideas.

Peggy works in both oil and acrylic.  She enjoys working with private clients to paint commissioned works that portray everything from their beloved dogs and horses to children and grandchildren.

This is the part of my work that feeds my soul.  Getting to meet a stimulating person like Peggy Everett and experience her essence is invaluable.  This is a woman I could easily call “friend”.  I left my meeting with Peggy itching to get my paintbrushes and tubes of paint out of storage and fill the empty canvasses that lay in boxes in our garage.   But I think I may need some private instruction as well.   She is an inspiration!

Melissa | people | 04 22nd, 2013 | 2 Comments »

I normally post a menu for weekend entertaining on Friday.  Because of the time I spent at the fabulous King & Prince Resort this week I just have to share news of their new chef.

Meet Jason Brumfiel!  Jason is the talented new chef who heads up the culinary staff at the King & Prince.  He is a seasoned, no pun intended, expert who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position.

Previously, Jason worked at Sea Island as chef at the River Bar.  His other experience includes travel to Thailand, France, Italy and Spain which offered him the opportunity to learn more about cuisines from all of these places. He spent several years as Chef de Cuisine at Mantra Restaurant in Great Britain.   His way with flavorings and spices is nothing short of miraculous.

On our first night at the King & Prince we were treated to a decadent cocktail hour during which Chef Jason “wowed” us with one of the most luxurious charcuterie spreads I have seen anywhere in the world.  The cheese came from Georgia’s finest, Sweet Grass Dairy, http://sweetgrassdairy.com.  The texture and flavors of the various cheeses was perfect with the selection of meats Chef chose from Sunset Farms, http://sunsetfarmfoods.com/ another Georgia proprietor from the Valdosta area.  Platters with Georgia olives, condiments, jams and jellies created a festive affair.

To accompany these gourmet delights we enjoyed Southern Mint Juleps that were made with Thirteenth Colony, http://www.13colony.net/ corn whisky, a bit of peach bitters, fresh mint and simple syrup.  They were light and refreshing, served up in mason jars in authentic Southern style!

A delectable Southern dinner followed during which Chef Jason prepared a delicious local favorite, Shrimp & Grits.  He was kind enough to share his recipe with us and it is posted below for you to try at home.  The new culinary trend of eating locally is being carried out in full force by this wonderful chef.

I am so excited about the changes and additions that are ongoing at the King & Prince.  This is St. Simons only beachfront resort.  It has so much to offer.  Stay tuned for more posts on the outstanding culinary experience we shared with Chef Jason.  And posts on the other adventures we shared during our Travel Writers Media Tour.  I can’t end this post without mentioning the awesome woman who put this excursion together for the fourteen attendees so impeccably.  Leigh Cort of Leigh Cort Publicity, http://www.leighcortpublicity.com/ was the mastermind behind this experience, along with Bud St. Pierre who is the Director of Sales & Marketing at the King & Prince.  More on them in future posts as well.

The best part of all is that I am blessed to live here on St. Simons Island!  I can visit the King & Prince Resort to have an amazing “Spa” lunch…more on that later, have cocktails by the ocean and be treated to the fabulous new menus created by Chef Jason Brumfiel!  Lucky Girl…….and a very happy one too.

Here is Chef Jason’s recipe for the best Shrimp & Grits I have ever eaten!

Georgia Low Country Shrimp & Grits

1 pint Logan Turnpike or Quaker Instant Grits

1 pint heavy cream

1 quart water

1/2 pound unsalted butter

salt, to taste

2 lbs. Chorizo or Andouille or smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2 inch slices

1 lb. white corn, roasted and cut off the cob

1 Vidalia onion, chopped

1 green pepper, diced

1 red pepper, diced

1 pint smoked cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mix of fresh cilantro, flat leaf parsley and chives, all chopped

5-6 lbs. Georgia Wild Shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-20 count/pound if possible

1 pint creme fraiche

2 bundles green onion, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

1.  In a 4-quart pan, place the Cream, Water, Butter and Salt (to taste, keep in mind cheese and chorizo added later will make this dish saltier) and bring to a boil.

2.  When liquid comes to a boil, stir in Grits and whisk until starting to thicken.  Turn off heat, cover with lid and let set about 20 minutes to bloom.

3.  While Grits are blooming, saute the Chorizo, Onions, Peppers & Roasted Corn until nice and colored.  Then, fold that mixture along with the chopped Herb Mix and Smoked Cheddar, then put in a warm area to serve.  If grits are a little stiff, just add a little more cream and gently heat over the stove top.

4.  In a saute pan, heat a little oil to smoking hot.  Season shrimp and saute on high for about 1 minute on each side, then add just a little white wine or shrimp stock or even just a little more butter to pan and let rest in pan while plating grits.  Top grits with shrimp, add a dollop of creme fraiche and garnish with green onions.

CAN I JUST SAY THIS IS SO DELICIOUS!!!  Let me know if and when you try the recipe!

 I will be posting about this elegant resort for all of my readers to see and experience a truly wonderful getaway.  You’ll find yourself making reservations!

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The King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort – 201 Arnold Road – St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – 912-268-5003 – www.kingandprince.com

Historic Hotels of America

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining, people | 04 19th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

What an extraordinary pleasure to be included in a small group of travel writer’s selected to gather at the King & Prince Resort on Saint Simons Island over the past three days.  Fun is an understatement!  We kept busy eating the fabulous food prepared by the new chef, Jason Brumfiel, and his talented staff.  There will be more to come about my stay there over the next few weeks.  Let me just say that it was one of the best times I have had in a very long time!

Yesterday, we got to take a ride on the Lady Jane, a refurbished shrimping boat we all boarded in the morning for a trip out to Saint Simons Sound.  The weather could not have been more beautiful as we set sail.  Pelicans and sea birds of all types flew alongside the boat.  These are birds with personality!  They sit on the boat, they pose with no shame and wait to be fed as the boat makes it way through the waters.  They are bold enough to help themselves if the offer of fresh catch does not come quickly enough for them!

Three different times the captain ordered the net to be let down into the depths to bring up whatever sea life it dredged off the bottom.  What a surprise as fish, blue crab and all sorts of creatures fell from the net onto the platform to be sorted through.

Phil, a very learned marine biologist, who is part of the crew gave us information on every different species and shared stories of interest with us all.  His vast knowledge of sea life is amazing!

What’s that?   A horseshoe crab!

And that?  Stingrays!  I didn’t know they resided in our local waters!

We were served a delectable helping of freshly steamed sweet Georgia shrimp by one of the other crew members.  Yum!

I highly recommend taking a trip on the Lady Jane.  The business is owned by Marine Surveyor, Captain Larry Credle.  A lifetime of work on the water has left him with all of the necessary skills for running the Lady Jane.  His crew is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.  This is the perfect family excursion during your visit to Georgia’s Golden Isles.  For more information on excursions: www.shrimpcruise.com.  You’ll find different packages to choose from including Captain Credle’s newest addition, a Pirate Ship.  It’s sure to delight any youngster or the young at heart.  It’s all in good fun and it’s a great learning experience.

Lady Jane – 912-265-5711 – www.ShrimpCruise.com

Melissa | people | 04 18th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

I felt like I had discovered the “motherlode” when I walked into AccentsMarketplace!  New owner, Vivian Edwards, welcomed me inside to view all of the many treasures she features in her lovely shop.

The colors, the textures, the exclusive lines to be found are sure to delight anyone looking for special items to enhance a home, present to a hostess or give as a gift!

Vivian has a background in interior design that shines through the displays she artfully puts together.

Vignettes are to be found in every part of the shop.  Easter items for those looking for that something special to complete a tablescape this coming weekend are on sale.

I love the little egg shaped nest that can be worked into a centerpiece, hung on a door or nestled into a larger basket full of Easter goodies!  Just think of the many things you can put in this basket…..Spanish moss with pastel eggs and a small bird, perhaps?

Vivian is always looking for that something special you won’t find anyplace else in the area.

John Robshaw Textiles can only be found at Accents Marketplace.

As well as Isabel Glass hand made belts with their colorful glass buckles that can be customized to suit your taste.

Haute Papier, a beautiful line of fine stationery, cards and coasters can also be customized and are very affordable.

Fabric, fancy’s and more!  Thibaut, a fabulous line of textiles, is on display, ready to be ordered for your next design project.

Mr. B’s glassware that can be monogrammed and will soon be available for ordering with your favorite design….a Georgia bulldog, your family crest….the possibilities are endless!  These glasses are handcrafted from recycled wine and liquor bottles, perfectly finished with a smooth surface for your drinking enjoyment.

Of course, I was drawn to the display of culinary products from Stonewall Kitchen.  Mouthwatering salsas, sauces and condiments…..yummy!

Emerson Et Cie from High Point, North Carolina is a high end furniture line available through Vivian.  This chair caught my eye….love the upholstery!

Candles, candles and more candles abound.  Tapers from Root Candles, softly colored, unscented pillars from Lance Kitira and soon to come, Ribbonwick, a division of Woodwick.  These beautiful candles have a “ribbon” shaped wick embedded in the wax that gently crackles as they provide soft, ambient lighting to any outdoor setting.

Treasures indeed!  Vivian has so many lovely items to choose from and she ships anywhere in the United States.  Shop at Accents Marketplace for a special hostess or birthday gift.  I promise you’ll find something you can’t resist as a treat for yourself as well!

AccentsMarketplace – 1624 Frederica Road – St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522 – 912-638-2030 – accentsmarketplace@yahoo.com

Melissa | people, Shop! | 03 28th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

Spring has always been a time for new beginnings.  Regrowth surrounds us as the weather begins to warm.  I know most of us associate Spring with flowers blooming and trees leafing out once again.  But it is also a time when wildlife gives birth.  Baby raccoons, bunnies, squirrels, deer and other animals that can be found in Coastal Georgia are born.  And sometimes, although not intentionally, the mother of a small animal will be killed, leaving her babies to try to survive without her.  The odds are against these young ones unless they are lucky enough to be found by Mark Heth.

Mark is the founder of Heth Haven, www.HethHavenInc.com, a not for profit organization on St. Simons Island that takes these little ones in, cares for them then turns them back into the wild when they are strong enough to survive.

He covers most of the state of Georgia, up to South Carolina, down to Florida and as far west as Valdosta.  Mark will take the time to drive to a destination where endangered babies are found and return with them to the haven he has created here on St. Simons.

As we talked he mentioned the fact that it’s easy to rescue domestic animals.  But a wild animal?  Not so easy.  Most people are frightened of rabies or some other disease.   But for the most part, these babies are nothing more than fragile, innocent beings who simply need some tender loving care in order to be able to return them to their natural habitat.

Mark has lived in the area since the early seventies.  His primary source of income has been landscaping, it’s something he came into this world knowing about and he is a master.  But in his spare time, he laughs at this term, he is all about rescuing wildlife, finding a better way to care for them and searching for cures to the various illnesses they may be threatened by.

He has been host to students from the University of Georgia who are researching Parvo, a disease that first came to the United States from Great Britain and only affected dogs.  Now, the parvo virus can be found in all sorts of animals.  Students in the school of veterinary science at UGA are trying to find a cure.  It’s a race against time as this disease spreads.

This is something that Mark is passionate about.  And lest you think he is sufficiently funded to carry out his dream, he struggles to get the proper food and to provide sufficient care for these babies when they come to him.  Ideally he would have the land to make a refuge, several acres where these creatures could be cared for in their natural habitat and given all of the food and medical attention they need.

His mission is an important one.  All wildlife contributes to a balanced eco-system, and yes, there has to be a natural form of population control, but those who can and do survive need a fighting chance.  Mark provides that in every way.  If you are interested in making a donation please contact him at MarkHeth@comcast.net.  Your donation is tax deductible and you will be contributing to a cause that means so much.

Advertisers are welcome at The Permanent Tourist!  It’s affordable and it will give you or your business a great new venue for getting your message out there.  Contact me for information:  melissa@thepermanenttourist.com.

Melissa | people | 03 26th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

It’s beginning to feel like spring break here in Coastal Georgia!  One can always tell when it takes twice as long to get to the grocery store.  But, I’m not complaining.  I love the excitement in the air as people return to the island after years of visits and newcomers look a bit lost as they try to find their way around the main traffic circle on St. Simons.  Slow and steady wins the race in that instance.  Look right, look left, make sure you’re headed in the right direction and carefully blend into the flow of traffic.  Remember…you’re on island time, let the kinks out and enjoy!

Going to the beach is probably at the top of your list if you’re planning your spring break in the area.  Here’s a map that shows you all of the entrances along the eastern shore.  As the beach narrows and you travel south, you’ll find yourself closer to the Village area.

You’ll come across the wonderful King & Prince resort with its beach club as you venture north:  http://www.kingandprince.com/.

East Beach begins at the historic Maritime Center, continuing up the coast.

If you keep driving or walking you’ll find yourself at Gould’s Inlet, the perfect spot for bird watching and finding a bit more seclusion, depending on the day.  Yes, you can venture out onto the sand bars, but please, please be aware of when the tides change and make sure to be on shore well in advance of high tide…it can come in quickly!

If you’re planning on spending the day you’ll want to make sure you have all of the provisions to make it a comfortable time.  We have a beach canopy like this:

Pinterest

But many people bring a cabana like this one so they can have a nap or just get in out of the sun.

Pinterest

Remember your sun block, plenty of water to drink and this wonderful cure if you catch a few too may rays……one bottle of purified water with about a dozen drops of Lavender essential oil, shaken and sprayed onto the burn provides instant relief.  If you’re feeling a bit too hot take a small bottle of Peppermint essential oil to dab onto your pulse points….feels great and makes you feel ever so much cooler.  A few large, fluffy beach towels and maybe an inflatable pillow or two and you’re set!

If you want a true adventure during your stay contact Southeast Adventure Outfitters http://www.southeastadventureoutfitters.com/  and book a kayak trip.  You’ll see the area in a whole different way and may even come into contact with a dolphin or two.

Everyone gets hungry at the beach!  Be prepared with a picnic spread that all will enjoy.  You can take a small barbecue pit for grilling hamburgers, hotdogs, seafood or whatever you desire.  Both Harris Teeter and Winn Dixie offer wonderful deli’s, salad bars and all the makings to complete your seaside feast!

Pinterest

If you’re looking for a beach cottage or home to rent for a week or two contact: www.hodnettcooper.com,  Hodnett Cooper is well known for providing visitors to the area with a full listing of available properties.

In the end, come, enjoy and relax.  The barrier islands of Coastal Georgia are beautiful, historical and waiting for you, your family and friends!  You’ll never forget your visit here and once you have St. Simons sand in your shoes, you’ll always return!

The Permanent Tourist is an excellent way to advertise your business or service, and it’s very affordable!  Contact me for information:  melissa@thepermanenttourist.com

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 03 21st, 2013 | 2 Comments »

Millie Wilcox

What an honor to attend Millie Wilcox’s newest art show last Friday evening, “Spring Enchantment”.  Ms. Wilcox is the “Grand Dame” of the art world here in Coastal Georgia.  Her impeccable eye for art that appeals to discerning art collectors and enthusiasts  is well known.   Friday night’s offering from three different artists was no exception!

Spring colors hearkened the coming of the season in the colorful paintings included in the show.

David Whitty’s paintings of the marshes and ocean have a mystical light in them I love.

Artist, Missy Vanover’s, impressionistic style and colorful paintings evoke the beauty of spring.

And Ken Wallin rounded out the show with his fabulous work!  Ken’s use of palette knife and brush is nothing short of masterful.

Mr. T, Me and Ken Wallin

The crowd was lively, the piano music so entertaining, it was an evening to enjoy!  This show will be on display until April 30, 2013, you don’t want to miss it!

Visit the Left Bank Art Gallery to view these wonderful works of art.  You may just end up with one of these lovelies on your wall!  You can preview all of the beautiful paintings in the show here: http://www.leftbankartgallery.com/searchresults.php?exhibitionId=57&start=1

Left Bank Art Gallery, 3600 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, Georgia, 912-638-3017

Advertisers Welcome!  If you’re interested contact me:  melissa@thepermanenttourist.com

Melissa | people | 03 18th, 2013 | No Comments »

I recently finished reading the first in the St. Simons Island trilogy by Eugenia Price entitled “The Lighthouse”.  Several friends mentioned the book to me before I actually broke down and ordered a copy.  The connection the book made me feel with the island has led me to do a bit of exploring on my own.  I now have the other books in the trilogy entitled, “New Moon Rising” and “The Beloved Invader”.

I love anything to do with history.  Finding out about the origins of St. Simons Island, its original settler’s and and their stories is one of the reasons I began to write this blog in the first place.  As I began to read about James Gould and his journey to the area back in the late 1700’s I felt a connection with his pioneering spirit and quest to build the lighthouse of his dreams.  His original lighthouse was destroyed in 1862 by Confederate soldiers to prevent Federal troops from using it.  The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1872.

Then I found out that I could actually visit the cemetery at Christ Church and see his grave.  More connection.  Christ Church was first built in 1808, destroyed during the Civil War and rebuilt, as it stands today in 1884.

I located the headstone of Gould’s grave while walking through the Christ Church cemetery.  Putting the past together with evidence here in the present is always of interest to me.  When I lived in New York City I loved traveling into New England to experience the history.  Now, I’m finding it all around me on this island.

Just down from Christ Church is Fort Frederica, the settlement established by James Oglethorpe to protect the southern boundary of the British Colony, Georgia, from Spaniard raids.  A quiet, peaceful place now.  Acres of ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss provide shade as you look out over the Frederica River.

If you have never been to Coastal Georgia, I highly recommend a visit!  You’ll find everything you could want!  History, good food and entertainment, lodging from economical to  elegant and beautiful beaches.  Living here truly makes me feel like the permanent tourist.

Melissa | people | 03 13th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

Actually, there are TWO new vets  on the island.  One of the goals of this blog is to introduce new people, places and things in the area.  There are many wonderful veterinarians in the Golden Isles that provide the best care for our pets.  For my readers who go to the Island Animal Hospital and wonder about the recent staff changes, I’m pleased to introduce you to Dr. Brad Cooke and Dr. Jaclyn Luckstone.  The group is still headed up by Dr.  Jan Rossiter who has served Glynn County pet owners for more than twenty years.

Dr. Cooke, a native Georgian, returned to his home state in November of 2012 to join the team at IAH.  He received his Veterinary degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in Philadelphia and continued his practice in Pennsylvania until moving to St. Simons.  Dr. Cooke is especially interested in neurology and cardiology.  His gentle manner will instantly have your pet feeling at ease.

Dr. Cooke lives on St. Simons Island with his wife, Dana.  Other family members include Blaze their Boxer, and two playful cats named Moo and Effie.

Dr. Luckstone moved from Connecticut to join Dr. Rossiter’s team.  She loves her new life on St. Simons Island.  One of her passions is working with exotic birds of all sizes and types.  Of course, she offers care for all pets, including reptiles.  Dr. Luckstone graduated from Ross University of Veterinary Medicine in 2009 then practiced in Connecticut for three years before moving to join Island Animal Hospital.  She emphasizes preventive care for all pets.  Yearly check ups and keeping current with vaccinations insures that your pet will be healthy and strong for years to come.

When she is not at her practice, Dr. Luckstone enjoys photography, baking and riding her bike.  She agreed with me that biking is probably the best way to get to know the island.  She also enjoys time with her own pets,  Maddy, a black Lab; Jack, a St. Kitts island mutt, and Linnie, a lineolated parakeet.

If you are a cat owner and dread trying to coax your furry friend into its carrier for trips to the vet, you’ll be happy to know about a product named “Feliway”.  This product can be diffused into the carrier where it emits a pheromone, much like what the mother cat produced in order to calm her kittens.  The company will soon be releasing a “wipe” that can be used to create the same effect when you use it on the interior of your carrier.  The more comfortable your cat is the easier it will be to insure their help with regular visits to your vet of choice.  “Feliway” is available at Island Animal Hospital and other veterinary clinics in the area.

Island Animal Hospital • 2603 Demere Road St. Simons Island, GA 31522 • 912-319-4040

Melissa | people | 03 12th, 2013 | 5 Comments »

Imagine a world totally committed to relaxation.  A world you enter where all of your cares, stresses and worries melt away.  Aromatherapy floats in the air, soothing your mind. There is a tropical feeling surrounding you, peaceful, quiet music streams into your senses as if to say, “You can stop now.”.  Breathe deeply, quiet your mind, find that space of emptiness between the thoughts that busily fill your head.

The 5 Star Spa at Sea Island’s Cloister Hotel is such a place.  Members and guests are treated to the ultimate in pampering as they enjoy the serenity so perfectly designed with complete relaxation in mind.  The whole setting is about tranquility with natural waterways flowing from the entry fountain in the four directions, north, south, east and west.

Donna Mastrianni, director of the spa, spent the better part of a morning recently guiding me through every nook and cranny of this beautiful haven.

Treatment rooms for two, private balcony’s for taking in the tropical surroundings while enjoying a glass of champagne, pilates, yoga….you’ll find it all within the private walls of this fabulous spa.

Meditate while walking the Labyrinth, followed by a soak in the thermal soaking tub that sits serenely in the exquisite gardens.

You’ll be treated to the most luxurious experience when you visit the spa.  Imagine a Balinese massage including a rice scrub that will leave your body smooth, relaxed and completely refreshed.

Sip on a lovely glass of citrus water, lightly sweetened with Savannah honey.  Treat your senses, treat yourself.  This is the perfect getaway for you and that special someone or for the ultimate “Ladies Out” weekend!  You’ll find it all in this charming Southern enclave that offers the best of everything.  For information and reservations: http://www.seaisland.com.  Privacy + Pampering = Perfection.

Here’s an extra bonus compliments of Donna Mastrianni.  It’s sure to soothe and relax you at the end of a busy day!

1 cup lactose free milk or almond milk (I make this with plain almond milk)

1 chamomile tea bag

1 chunk of fresh ginger root – about 1/2″ thick

1 teaspoon local, organic honey

Heat the milk until just steaming.  Add the tea bag and ginger root, cover and steep for 5 minutes.  Stir in the honey and serve in a warm mug.

This is such a delicious mixture of flavors….it really take all the kinks out!

Enjoy!

Melissa | people | 03 7th, 2013 | 3 Comments »