The Farm at Oatland North is a retirement community of sorts.  But it’s not for guests of the human species.  This is a place for animals who have been rescued to live out their lives in an utterly beautiful natural setting.  They are cared for, loved and assured that here is where they will stay for the rest of their days.

I met Natalie Murrah at the Farm to tour the area and learn about this wonderful place.  The country road that leads back to the property is a winding, one lane drive, canopied by oak trees.  As I drove further back off the main highway I first saw two horses wandering on the grounds, comfortable and happy to be basking in the morning sun.  One of them took a dirt bath, rolling over and over in the dirt near the stables.  Horse heaven!

Jack Pot and Starfire

There are seventeen horses in retirement on the farm at this time.  One of them, Jack Pot, was actually born on the farm.  His mother, Starfire, was rescued and brought to the Murrah’s.  Both horses are thriving and enjoying their life.

This is Frazier.  He’s a thoroughbred racehorse….what a beauty!

Four goats are in residence.  Tunsis was the first goat to join the other animals at the farm and Natalie then bought three baby goats a year ago to keep Tunsis company.  I never knew goats could be so sociable.  Perry, one of the year old babies, took a liking to me.  I’ll be going back to visit him now that we have struck up a friendship!

Two cows, Panda and Amanda live in bovine luxury.  Plenty of hay,water and attention keep them happy.  Skylar loved getting in the pen with the cows, carefully, and giving them a pet.

Grandpa is a rescue rooster, found behind the famous “Bennie’s Red Barn” restaurant here on St. Simons Island.  He literally rules the roost now, overseeing 12 other chickens.  What a character!

21 cats and 16 dogs round out the current tenants…..but more animals will be coming for the tender loving care they receive at this special place.

Plans are underway for a learning library, a learning center and a place for the arts where painters can join together to paint the animals in this natural setting.

Barbara Murrah has made The Farm at Oatland North her ongoing project for 10 years.  She went back to work as a nurse to fund the farm and keep it in running order.  Sadly, Barbara was recently diagnosed with leukemia and is currently undergoing the first in a series of chemotherapy treatments at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta.  Now unable to work, her ability to fund this valuable project has come to a stop.  But the farm received non-profit status last November and fund raising events are being planned.

http://www.oatland.org/Photo_Gallery/Oatland.htm

This property dates back to the 1700’s when it was Oatland Plantation where the owner, Dr. Grant, raised cotton and rice.  The original buildings no longer stand, but the trees echo tales of a bygone time if you stand quietly and listen.  There are stories on the wind and memories one can sense that tell of history, the rich history of St. Simons Island.

The Murrah’s have made this a family business.  They all pitch in to clean out the stables, feed and care for the animals and see to the everyday upkeep of the farm.  You can read more about the farm here:  http://www.thefarmssi.com, or visit their Facebook page, The Farm at Oatland North.   There is information on how to make a donation to help support this worthy cause on the site.  You can also find out how to volunteer.  Extra help is always welcome, but please call ahead to arrange for your visit.

The Farm At Oatland North – 3370 Lawrence Road – St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – 912-580-6774

Melissa | Out&About | 06 4th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

Gullah what?  You ask.  Gullah Geechee.   This is the formal way chosen by a group of African Americans to describe their language and culture.  Actually, the Gullah are descendants of slaves who inhabited both the South Carolina and Georgia coasts.  Geechee is the language they speak.  Together, Gullah Geechee creates the thread that weaves the history of these people through the fabric of the South and its history.

Saturday we attended the Sea Island Folk Festival where  people  gathered to celebrate their heritage, share their art, their food and their culture.

The weather was slightly warm with a cool breeze making our time under the huge oak trees pleasant.  The air was filled with the aroma of Southern barbeque, curry and other tasty treats.

We tasted the delicious baked goods from Henrietta’s Art of Baking.  Her Coconut Strips have been featured nationally and are the hallmark of her brand.

Intricate works of art by Gene Threats that he creates with colored pencils fascinated me.

Marjorie Washington, known as our  “Maya Angelou” spoke of “The Weeping Time” with poignant eloquence.  The Weeping Time occurred on the second and third days of March in 1865 when 436 slaves were torn from their families and taken to Savannah to be sold.  Their owner, Pierce Mease Butler wracked up a high gambling debt and suffered great loss on the stock market.  Thus the time of weeping when loved ones were separated from the land and the people they loved and sold to owners all over the South.

Brightly colored clothing and crafts reflect the brave hearts and the determination of these people.  Their lives have been a struggle and many have known defeat.  The spirit of these people is as intense and dynamic as the colors woven into fabric for bags, belts and all sorts of wearable items.

This folk festival is a tribute to the history and the legacy of a group of people who helped to form the South into a place that blends the culture of so many different races and religions.  It preserves and shares the rich soul of the South, passing it down from generation to generation through food, song and dance.  The thread continues, weaving its way through the hearts and minds of those who share in this yearly celebration.  The Geechee Gullah Ring Shouters provided song and dance for all to enjoy.  I listened and heard the deep spiritual content of the music and the sadness as well as joy it portrays.  I’ll be returning and connecting with these people and the feeling of pride they share….memories of a very special Saturday remain.

Melissa | Out&About | 06 3rd, 2013 | No Comments »

It always seems like the end of the week, but it is really the beginning.  Relax, rest and renew.  Here’s something beautiful to help you on your way.  Click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-Xm7s9eGxU and enjoy!

Melissa | Out&About | 06 2nd, 2013 | No Comments »

T.C. Dasheuang has absolutely innovated Thai cuisine. As the owner of Basil Thai and Sushi, Dasheuang offers a wide array of dishes  prepared with the perfect balance of detail and variety. Each entree allows diners to experience an enticing combination of flavors. Dasheuang’s dishes tantalize the tongue with complex combinations complimenting  sour, sweet, salty, and bitter tastes.  It comes as no surprise that delighted expressions rest on each customer’s face.

Among the most popular dishes are  Pad Thai, the Thai Fried Rice, Thai Salmon, as well as the Pan Roasted Filet Mignon Prime, the New Zealand Lamb Chop, and  sushi rolls. The Pad Thai is combines flat rice noodles with delicious local shrimp, succulent chicken and egg. ‘The crispy bean sprouts, crunchy peanuts and  lime complete the cuisine. The Thai Fried Rice is jasmine served with monster prawns and chicken paired with flavorful pineapples, tomatoes, and cucumbers. T.C.’s Thai Salmon is slowly grilled over pan-tossed zucchini, yellow squash, and fresh curry. Noticeably, however,  Basil offers non-Thai dishes such as Filet Mignon and the Lamb Chop. Manager Christine Davis states, “Basil is able to stand out from other Thai restaurants because of our ability to fuse different traditional dishes into one. Our kitchen staff specializes in more than one cuisine.” The dishes exquisitely blend the flavors of Southeast Asia with traditional Western fare. The Pan Roasted Filet Mignon Prime is grilled with asparagus, organic sweet onions, and topped with a wild mushroom and red wine reduction. Basil’s New Zealand Lamb Chop is grilled with roasted red peppers and steamed vegetables  covered with Thai Basil and shitake mushroom sauce.The restaurant also specializes in sushi, a traditionally Japanese dish.

Basil also offers an array of signature martinis and other libations.

An inside view of the establishment.

For reservations or inquiries please call (912)-345-7625 or visit www.basilthaiandsushi.com

Melissa | food & entertaining, Out&About | 06 1st, 2013 | No 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 »

I dream of visiting Spain, the island of Ibiza, in particular.  My “Spanish” daughter lives there with her beautiful little boy and I have not seen them in years.  She spent her junior year of high school with me.  The stories she told, the recipes she shared, her style, wit and exotic beauty are all things I miss!  Today, as you relax and renew, sit back and listen to this beautiful music and imagine the faraway places you dream of going!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPP0RwAvLG0&list=PLF91B627FB6443D6F,

(Kiss The Earth by Johannes Linstead)

Melissa | Out&About | 05 29th, 2013 | No Comments »

I usually do not repeat a post, but in this case I have made an exception.  I participated in an on-line link party that was an international event last week.  I also posted this story about Marian on Monday of that week.  I didn’t feel that her story got to be up long enough due to the event so I am reposting today.  This is a great product and Marian is an outstanding entrepreneur.  I hope you’ll enjoy her story and try her product!

There is NOTHING I love more than a success story in the making.    I think I came into this world hard wired with an entrepreneurial spirit.  I appreciate anyone who has the ideas, drive and ambition to make something work.  I am sharing this post with you once again since Marian’s interview got mixed into a week long International Link Party I was asked to participate.  Marian’s story and her product are so good, I feel they need the undivided attention of my readers!

When I met Marian Aiksnora last week I was not disappointed.  I tasted her “Bloody Amazing Bloody Mari ‘n’ Marinade Island Seasoning” at Vivan’s AccentMarketplace when a pitcher of Bloody Mary’s was there for tasting on a rainy Saturday afternoon.  I’m always looking for delicious mixes for drinks.  At first taste I felt a slight pucker from the tartness, then, as the flavors grew in my mouth I thought, “Wow!”, this is really great!  I, personally, do not like a bland Bloody Mary.

I picked up a flyer for the product and realized that this is not JUST Bloody Mary Mix.  Marian has taken her product a step further and created all sorts of recipes that use her mix with awesome results!

Marian Aiksonra is a winner.  After years of working in the high tech world as a graphic designer, she found herself in financial straights after the now famous crash of 2008.  Raising two children on one’s own is always a challenge and with no job, even more so.  Marian accepted a position as bartender at a golf club in Connecticut.  Customers would order Bloody Marys, but they were not happy with the club’s recipe.  After putting together a list of ingredients suggested by her clientele, Marian came up with this delicious blend of spicy tomato goodness that adds a kick to the ever popular brunch drink as well as cocktail dipping sauce, steak marinade and many other recipes she has come up with.  “All I wanted to do was make a good Bloody Mary mix.”, Marian told me, this product has gone far beyond that!

“Bloody Amazing” is available on-line or you can find a store near you by visiting the website, http://www.bloodyamazingseasoning.com/shop.html .  It doesn’t take much, so a bottle goes a long way.  Cheers Marian!  I wish you a huge success and I believe that wish will come true!

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 05 29th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

Memorial Day…..the beginning of summer and the memory of those who gave their lives to keep our freedom.

There’s no place like an island on a holiday.

Crowds gather at the pier.

Shops have sales and open their doors earlier, staying open a bit later than normal, while restaurants have live music to entertain both guests ad passersby.

Shrimp boats lazily make their way through the sound.

A gazebo awaits, offering shade from the warm, early summer sun.

Neptune Park is full of people celebrating, barbecuing and playing on the swings.

Seats are in place, ready for the playing of taps later as the sun sets on a beautiful day.

I gaze above and see a cloud formation that looks to be half a heart……an omen of a beautiful day?

St. Simons Island…..welcome to summer, island time and the good life!

Melissa | Out&About | 05 28th, 2013 | No Comments »

On this holiday we remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.  For over two hundred years America has been a beacon to the rest of the world.  A beacon for freedom, bravery and individuality unlike any other country on Earth.

Today, take a moment and quietly say a prayer and a thank you for all of the men and women who died while fighting to protect our rights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUsYfeua1gs

Melissa | people | 05 27th, 2013 | No Comments »