Mother’s Day is always special.  Before my daughter, Skylar, was born I used to get a deep case of the blues each year.

This year I’m sailing on top of the world!  Skylar is going on seventeen and has turned into the loveliest young woman!

Our day began with breakfast, beautifully arranged on a tray and served on our deck.  A sunny, cool day with a soft ocean breeze made the experience so perfect! And I thought breakfast was IT!

A cold seafood lunch served al fresco, for Mom and Me…..I think I must have taught Skylar something right!

As the day came to an end, my lovely husband made the toast by saying, “Mr. T. loves Mom too!” The only thing that would have made the day more perfect would have been to have my step daughters present with their children.  Missed them all and wished them a Happy Mother’s Day as well! Life is good here on our island…..very, very good!

Melissa | Out&About | 05 13th, 2013 | 1 Comment »

All right readers!  Hide your eyes and plug up your ears if you are on a diet.  This post is all about the fabulous birthday dinner I prepared for my Dad last week.  Listen, if you make it to 85 years I think you should be able to choose whatever you want to eat to celebrate!  This is what Dad wanted and this is what he got!  It’s authentically French….right down to the butter, more butter and….yes, a bit more butter.  I abstained from eating the beef, just had a tiny taste and piled my plate with veggies and a small helping of the Chateau Potatoes.

Bleu Brie with Apples and Water Crackers

Chateaubriand

Chateau Potatoes

Steamed Vegetables

Hollandaise Sauce

Creme Brulee with Fresh Raspberries

Chateau LaFitte

Bleu Brie with Apples and Water Crackers

I found a lovely wedge of cheese at my local market, a soft brie, shot through with a rich bleu….served with apple slices and simple water crackers….the family gathered round to sample as I cooked.

Chateaubriand

The name sounds daunting, but this is a very simple dish to make.  The key is getting the BEST quality of beef you can find.  I had my butcher cut a 3 pound, center cut piece from the tenderloin. (Preheat your oven to 400 degrees)   Sprinkle the meat with a mixture of grey salt and good, cracked black pepper.  Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan on top of the stove.  Brown all surfaces of the beef and drain off the fat.  Place the meat, in the drained pan, into the preheated oven.  Roast for 20 minutes for medium rare….the correct temperature for a perfect Chateaubriand.  Remove from the oven, cover with foil and let stand 15 minutes before slicing into 1/2 inch thick slices.

Chateau Potatoes

2 pounds of yellow, fingerling potatoes, sliced into small ovals (cut on the diagonal)

6 tablespoons butter

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

3/4 teaspoons grey salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

These will bake with the beef in a 400 degree oven.  Melt the butter in an oven proof skillet (I use my cast iron skillet for these) over medium-high heat.  Saute the sliced potatoes in the butter for five minutes.  Place the skillet into the over, alongside the tenderloin and bake for 20 minutes.  You’ll want to turn the potatoes after 10 minutes.  Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with parsley, salt and pepper.

Steamed Vegetables

1/2 pound haricort vert (French string beans)

1 bunch of asparagus, cleaned and snapped to four inches

1 bunch brocollini, cleaned and trimmed to four inches

6 organic carrots, cleaned, peeled and julienned

Steam the veggies in vegetable broth over low heat for about 6-8 minutes.  You want them to be a bit crisp, never mushy and wilted.

Hollandaise Sauce

I suppose you might say I used a short cut for this.  I have made Hollandaise the old fashioned way for years but this is quicker and it is foolproof!  Even Ina Garten features a blender recipe for hollandaise so I’m in good company!

In a blender place:

3 egg yolks

1 tablespoon FRESH lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Place the top on the blender and pulse to combine for a minute or so.  Remove the little cap and pour 10 tablespoons of melted butter into the egg mixture in a steady stream with the motor running.  This will form a thick sauce that can be served to the side with the vegetables, beef and potatoes.  I added a tablespoon of tarragon to create Bernaise sauce….so yummy with the vegetables!

Creme Brulee with Fresh Raspberries

I have featured this recipe before, but it’s one of Dad’s favorites so here it is again!

*Thanks to About.com:  French Food for this yummy recipe.

There you have it!  After this feast you may want to abstain from fat and cholesterol for a few days!  But it was simply delicious!  Enjoy!

The Permanent Tourist is currently accepting Sponsors for the site, contact melissa@thepermanenttourist.com for more information.

Melissa | Finally Friday!, food & entertaining | 05 10th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

It’s that time of year again.  Mother’s Day is upon us, graduations are coming and the wedding season follows close behind.

Edward Armstrong is something of a legend on St. Simons.  His lovely new location at 224 Redfern Village is no disappointment!  Joining him in his new shop are owners Chris Triplett and David Lowe.

The delicious smell as you enter the shop is enough to tell you that this is a very place special.

The European method of tightly arranging flowers and mixing natural elements to fit the feeling of Coastal Georgia sets Edward’s floral designs apart from others.

Lovely platters and items for your home abound.

Gifts for the bride and her attendants.

Hostess Gifts….beautiful topiaries, succulents and more arranged in lovely baskets or earthy pottery.

Candles, candles, and more candles….that’s where part of the wonderful aroma that fills the air comes from….the rest you can attribute to the lovely fresh flowers!

Visit or call Edward On St. Simons.  You’ll find everything you need for creating the perfect floral arrangements and bouquets for weddings and other events.  Have no doubt that this team of talent will make something exquisite just for you!

Don’t forget about Mom!  This is the place to call to insure your Mom gets the freshest, most beautifully arranged flowers!

Edward On St. Simons – 224 Redfern Village – St. Simons Island, GA – 31522 –

912-638-7323

Melissa | people, Shop! | 05 8th, 2013 | 9 Comments »

It all begins at the Left Bank Art Gallery on May 16th.

Millie with Jennifer Broadus

Two artists…..two styles……two stories

No one puts on an art show like Millie Wilcox, owner of Left Bank Art Gallery.  This may very well be one of  the most fascinating shows yet!

I’ll be posting more on the artists and their work next week.

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to view St. Simons Island history from two perspectives.

Melissa | Out&About | 05 7th, 2013 | No Comments »

I’m trying something a bit different this week.  Here’s a sneak peak at what you’ll be seeing on The Permanent Tourist!

A fabulous menu for entertaining featuring Chateaubriand and all the trimmings!

Something to entice you to take a closer look at the history of our beautiful area!

 The touching story of a beloved little pet and more.

I’m keeping some secrets and having fun as I prepare wonderful reads for all of my dear followers!

There is a Rolls Royce involved and tips for a very special season that approaches.

Subscribe for free and receive daily posts…….look forward to some fun!

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 05 6th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

My Dad is 85 today.

I have always been a “Daddy’s Girl”….always.  I wish we were a family who took more pictures because there would be plenty of the two of us.

Sweet Sixteen

I have to be satisfied with pictures taken now, mostly that I take and mostly of my Dad with my daughter and my Mom.

I am what I am today because of my Dad.  He has always been a shining light in my life, ready to help out in any way, to make a difference or just to sit and listen.   My Dad is an amazing man who reached the top of his career, traveled all over the world and shared his faith with people of all religions.

Here’s to you Dad!  You are greatly loved!  Happy, Happy Birthday!

Melissa | people | 05 2nd, 2013 | 3 Comments »

I approached the front doors of the Humane Society with great trepidation.  Right on time for my appointment with Virginia Schlegel, the Executive Director of the society, I felt hesitant to go inside and see all of the precious little kittens, puppies, cats and dogs.  Knowing my weakness for all things furry, my guard went up.  Of course, it didn’t take long for that to stop as I looked around at all the little cuties available for adoption.  I’m featuring pictures throughout this post of some of the adoptable cats and dogs now housed at the shelter.  They may not be available by the time you read this, but there will be others to choose from.

My first site was a screened in “porch” area outfitted for frisky play by kittens and cats alike.  What fun, seeing them scurry here and there….into the building and back out again to their little piece of heaven.

Once inside my eyes were met by a welcoming front desk.  To the right of the desk, an unexpected section of pet supplies.  All sorts of leashes, collars and toys brightly displayed, just waiting to be purchased, at very reasonable prices I might add.

The loving care provided for these animals is evident everywhere you look.  Ms. Schelegel has accomplished nothing short of a miracle in her position at the Humane Society.  She admits to running the operation like any other successful business.  Since she became Executive Director adoptions have increased by 30% and the beautiful new 20,000 square foot facility is completed and fully occupied.

Virginia Schlegel

Joy

It has been a joint effort of volunteers and employees alike, working together to provide this haven for animals.  Missy Weaver is the veterinarian on staff offering spaying, neutering, rabies shots and micro-chipping, also at reasonable prices.  Through donations the facility is able to provide the best in accommodations and health care to all of the animals who are brought to the shelter.

Jake

Roy Scarborough, the resident Animal Behaviorist and Trainer, works with all of the animals.  If a dog has suffered abuse, Roy knows just what to do to see that the dog becomes well adjusted and socialized before being adopted out to a new family.

Pansy & Mario
Two for the Price of One

This is a facility that DOES NOT euthanize for space.  I also learned that they visit the animal shelter just down the road and bring animals to the Humane Society when there is extra space available.

Butch Cassidy

Volunteers are always needed.  Dogs need to be walked, exercised and loved.  Cats need to be held, stroked and given their space….well, they are cats after all.  To learn more about donating or volunteering, go here:  http://www.hsscg.org/welcome.html

I love the fact that the Sherry’s Food Bank boxes, located in grocery and pets stores throughout the Glynn County area provide a resource for pet foods to families who want to keep their beloved pets, but don’t have the funds to buy necessary food and supplies.

This is truly a circle of pet lovers helping each other in every way.  On July 29, 2013 the third annual Fore The Pets Golf Classic will be held at Ocean Forest Golf Club on Sea Island.  You’ll find all of the information about that here:  http://www.hsscg.org/help/fore_the_animals_golf_classic.html

You can become a Shelter Angel with a yearly donation of $1,000.00.  Kennel Sponsorships are $5,000.00 and provide the care of animals in your particular space that bears a small plaque with the name of each sponsor on the door.

If you’re looking for a pet to bring a lot of love into your life, visit the Humane Society.  You’ll find the perfect dog or cat for your family!

Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia – 4627 US Highway 17 North – Brunswick, GA 31525 – 912-230-0112

Melissa | Out&About | 04 30th, 2013 | 8 Comments »

What fun!  Two chefs in a kitchen creating a delicious meal.  MiMi and I have talked about cooking together since we first met a few months ago and it happened last night!  Since it was a “Pink” moon along with an eclipse, something special was in order!  Our creative muses were hard at work as we chopped, tossed, sampled and shared some good red wine.  This menu is a bit different from my other posts.  MiMi is a devoted vegan and I, curious creature that I am, wanted to explore the options.  I’m not sure if I could be vegan full time, but I do believe in eating a more plant based diet and the magic MiMi creates in the kitchen makes me think she could make cardboard taste yummy.  Hats off to a lovely lady, ultra-talented chef and friend.  Here’s the menu:  (Pictures only today….stay tuned tomorrow for recipes…..time in the kitchen took longer than expected!)

Socca with Caramelized Vidalia Onions, Crimini Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts

Zucchini Carpaccio with Blackberries and Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Pasta Puttanesca

 Berry Tart with Coconut Whipped Cream

Sangiovese 

Socca with Caramelized Vidalia Onions, Crimini Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts

Zucchini Carpaccio with Blackberries and Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Pasta Puttanesca

Rustic Berry Tart with Coconut Whipped Cream

We had such a great evening creating this fabulous meal.  You would never have believed it was vegan…..YUM!  Recipes to follow and you’ll love them…easy and delicous!

Melissa | Out&About | 04 26th, 2013 | 2 Comments »

Anyone who follows my blog knows that I stayed at the King & Prince Resort last week as part of a group of “travel writers” who were selected to stay, share our talents, explore and reignite our creativity.  I’ve already shared the fact that the food was simply out of this world.  Each meal we were served was beautifully presented and tasted so delicious.

Let me first thank Leigh Cort, the fabulous publicist who put the whole event together, along with Bud St. Pierre who is head of sales and marketing at the K&P.  The time and effort they put into this experience for us all cannot be equaled.  Every detail, every minute…..everything about the event was carried out without a glitch or a flaw.

The King & Prince has existed on St. Simons Island since 1935.  You might find it interesting to know that the two gentlemen responsible for building the K&P were basically turned out by another club in the area for bad behavior.  They decided that since their company was not acceptable there they would form their own resort.  And they did. During World War II the resort was used as a Naval coast watching and training facility.  In 1947 it returned to an elegant resort that became one of America’s Prestigious Historic Hotels in 1996.   The resort will soon see its 80th year and I’m guessing the celebration of that is already being planned as I write this post.

Things are changing at the King & Prince.  A total renovation of the lobby area is set to begin next November and be finished by February of 2014.  The design, as it was described to us by Michael Johnson, VP of Resort Operations, is nothing short of perfect.  Those who loved the way the original bar was situated on the main floor will be pleased to know it is about to return there.  The indoor pool will no longer exist and the view as you enter the resort will expand for a better view of the beach.

I found my room to be comfortable, the view fantastic and service impeccable.

This is the room where I stayed.

This is the view.

Here are a couple of other rooms you might enjoy seeing.  Both with ocean views!

And then the stunning Delegal dining room with it historic stained glass windows.  What a place to enjoy an award winning Sunday Brunch!

Did I mention the spa?  And golf?  It’s all available here.  Stay tuned for future posts on this and more!

The flow of any hotel is important.  The way the historic section blends with the newer additions works beautifully.  Every detail of upgrading and freshening villas, cabanas and rooms is being seen too.

Remember, this is Saint Simons Island’s only beachfront resort.  Seeing to every detail in the way this staff does defines the high quality guests will be treated too when they visit.

There is so much to do and see here on St. Simons Island.   The rich history of our area, the people who live here and the beauty of the island is waiting for you to explore.  Make your reservations and look forward to a treat!  The King & Prince offers wonderful accommodations in a fabulous setting, what more could you want?

 The King & Prince Beach & Golf Resort – 201 Arnold Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 – www.kingandprince.com – 912-638-3631 – 800-342-0212

Melissa | food & entertaining | 04 25th, 2013 | 3 Comments »

I turned off of Kings Way and followed the directions Michele Beveridge provided.  As I pulled up to the Heron Cottage I took a moment to appreciate the architecture of the home.  Charming bungalow style stood before me, a generous front porch leading to a welcoming entrance into this lovely boutique cottage.

Heron is the first of the three cottages offered by the Island Cottage Company.

Owners Michele Beveridge and her builder husband, Scott, have created comfortable spaces for families who want the privacy of an upscale home during their stay on St. Simons Island.  All three of the cottages are within blocks of the beach, the village and other areas of interest.  I also have to tell you that this is a family affair, both of their boys are actively involved in caring for the cottages as well.  No wonder there is such a warm feeling in each of the homes!

Every cottage has its own style.  Michele uses her design skills to create an environment that says “Home” and “Welcome”.  Furthermore, Michele provides a lovely wine and cheese basket to new arrivals and you just never know what baked goodies you may find on the front porch during your stay!  This is the perfect home away from home!

She admits her passion is keeping the rooms fresh with new design items and ideas so that returning guests always come back to something new.

The Piper and Sea Gull cottages are restored homes.  The Heron, largest of the three, was built by Scott, a talented builder whose name is well known throughout the area.

I immediately migrated toward the kitchen in the Heron, a foodies delight!  What fun to stay in a beautifully designed cottage, be able to pick up fresh seafood and produce locally and return to enjoy an evening of cooking and relaxing before the fire on the screen porch.

If you need to get some work done during your visit the Heron has a private work space you’ll find completely outfitted with everything you need to set up shop.

The bedrooms in all of the cottages are pristine, calm and restful.  After a day on the beach or sightseeing you’ll be sure to get a good night’s sleep!

Spacious backyards provide a place for kids to run and play.  Each cottage is equipped with a gas grill and an outdoor dining area.  In the Heron you’ll find a state of the art wine cooler and ice machine.

For more information on renting these charming cottages visit the website:  http://www.islandcottagecompany.com/.

Michele and Scott’s care and attention to the design and comfort of each cottage make them something really special.  Weekly rentals are available during season and three night minimum stays off season.  The Heron and Sea Gull Cottages sleep six and the Piper Cottage sleeps 4 comfortably.

Island Cottage Company – 912-222-4078 – St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Melissa | food & entertaining, people | 04 24th, 2013 | 4 Comments »