Mermaid Sighting: Seaside Sisters and More!

They've done it again! Seaside Sisters has been decorating up a storm over at the shop, and they have so many new wonderful, whimsical trinkets and holiday treasures! I just had to share these...aren't they great?

     There are so many fabulous holiday decorations in the shop right now, your head will spin! Make sure you stop by and do a little Christmas shopping! Don't forget...Saturday, December 5th, is the annual Shop 'n' Stroll...there will be fun by the bucket load! This is a super fun, island wide event, so make sure you pick up your map for the treasure hunt while you shop! Seaside Sisters is even offering gift certificates from other local businesses like Coastal Fitness and Wellness for the occasion! Coastal Fitness and Wellness is a fabulous place, and they just settled into their newly expanded studio! Owner Edie Mercado offers Pilates, personal fitness packages, as well as many types of massage. Coastal Fitness and Wellness is a holistic total mind-body experience. New for December is Hot Stone Therapy, just perfect for de-stressing from all that holiday madness! There's so much going on here for the holidays...Tybee is the place to be!

     Also, thank you for sending in your mermaid sightings, we love getting mermaids in our email! Please keep up the good work! Send your sightings to diane@mermaidcottages.com and your sighting could be featured right here! We can't wait to hear from you!

Mermaid Sighting: Cottage Sneak Peek!

     We are super excited around here! There's a flurry of activity going on, and it's in preparation for a new cottage! I love a good before and after, so it's all just too tempting...I had to share some sneak peek "before" pictures!

How exciting is that? I just love watching the transformation, and I can't wait to see how this diamond is polished to shine. Here are some more pictures to whet your appetite!

So inviting already!

Are you as excited as we are yet? Good, because it's going to be amazing! Make sure to stay tuned, because there will be more updates to come!

Cottage Cheese: Have Mercy!

It's Friday and time to welcome back Cottage Cheese!

Ya'll know how sometimes, you get the feeling that you ought to be living a cleaner life and stop some of your bad habits?

Now, I never have been one to spew profanity at the drop of the hat, but from time to time some things either hurt so bad (or feel so good!) I can't quite express myself adequately.  Therefore, I do sort of pull a few choice words out of somewhere and let 'em fly as befits the occasion...that is, until this year. 

I have been trying to improve my vocabulary and learn at least one new word each day.  I do at least one crossword puzzle a day, and sometimes two.   I even practice my new words on my friends and family from time to time. Of course, they are rarely impressed.  I get a lot of, "Why don't you just say what the H-E-Double-Hockey Sticks (I'm paraphrasing here, of course) you mean without all those forty dollar words that nobody else knows?"

So, I finally just started using words and sayings I've amassed through my many years as a Southern Baptist.  Classics like "Lord Have Mercy!", "Dear Lord, Jesus, Be My Guide", "Well, I Suwanee", "Hallelujah", "Bless you, honey child", and other assorted phrases. All of which I remember from my Sunday school lessons and conversations with my mother and grandmother.  Now, I'm not promoting any one religion.   You just think of your own religious sayings and insert them where you once might have used cuss words.  For those really painful moments, such as when I hit my thumb or stump my toe, I have been know to sing out, "Jesus wants me for a Sunbeam!"

So, that's how I've been trying to improve my self image and also earn a few brownie points. You know, should somebody try to get a load up to go to heaven any time soon.  I'm just saying...like most people I've got enough 'splaining to do when I get there. Plus, it never hurts to get a few extra ticks under the I Been A Good Boy column.

For instance, on a recent trip to Tybee Island I had a truly religious experience.  Now, ya'll know by now I'm referring to eating and sleeping. Or sleeping and eating, which ever you prefer.  There's no need to lie...I'm in midst of a full conversion.  Lead me gently home, Father!

This trip, I got to stay up at the big house, Shore Leave Cottage.  It sits right on Butler Avenue, the main drag, so people watching and hot car ogling is at it's best.

Of course, if anything, I'm reliable.  I'm always gonna run around my beach house like a kid in a candy store and start dreaming about the fun I'm gonna have...sort of like the way I used to wear out the Sears Christmas Catalog every year before Christmas.

Lordy me!  I'm gonna go swimming in that huge garden tub and turn on those jets to massage me! And then, lay around on that huge upper porch that soars out over the main street and check out the comings and goings of those sporting around below.
But...first things first.  Unload the car. Get the dogs a chew toy.  But most important...run off to find some good eatin'! And, boy howdy, did I find some!

Right there, at that big right hand curve where Highway 80 turns into Butler Avenue, is MacElwees Seafood House.  I quickly learned MacElwees is one of the best places on the island for fresh seafood, right from the Tybee waters.  The owners and staff are a very friendly bunch and they love serving folks who like to eat.You can't go wrong with the fresh made crabby dip and raw oysters to start, but let me tell you about the Low Country Stir Fry!

It's a huge mounding of fresh seafood in a spicy coastal sauce, sprawled on top of a bed of collard greens that also sits on a bed of red rice.  Have Mercy!  Ya'll thought I was gonna say a bad word. Help me, Jesus! It was a powerful plate of my favorite foods and it was more than enough for two of us to eat.  What? I'm selfish and pitiful, for sure, but I have been known to share.  It's the Christian thing to do. And, I had good reason to save room for what was to come. Dear Lord Jesus! Sanctified and holy!  Deliver me from my sins...Fried Strawberries!

I am not kidding you.  These are fresh, giant strawberries.  They're fried in pancake batter.  They're rolled hot in sugar.  Then, they plop a gracious helping of homemade whipped cream on 'em to cut the sweet. Insert colorful phrase of choice here, let me let ya!

Now, what do ya'll think I did?  You are right as rain...I ate them and licked my lips and fingers to beat the band.  There goes that heavenly choir singing again.  I have been moved! I would trade every friend I have in the world for these Fried Strawberries.  Okay...for those of you who know the company I keep I admit that I'd have to throw in a little money, too.  (That's something to add to my list.  Take inventory of my friends and see if they're gonna keep me locked outside the pearly gates.)  I like 'em and all, but I'm not betting my eternity on 'em.

Which brings me to another great moment from this trip to Tybee Island.  Ya'll know what it is.  Just look what those Mermaid Cottages folks did for me.

 
Now, turn in your hymnals and let's all sing "Beautiful Isle of Somewhere...."

You see, it's about trying to do better.  Hey, we can all use some improvement.  It's about singing praises for every good thing that comes our way and saying thank you. Thank you for having the courage and the tenacity to follow through, even when times get rough.  It's about being Thankful and Rejoicing. 

It's Cottage Cheese!

Mermaids in Our Midst: Rose's Folie Cottage, and Some Cool News!

     We love happy guests! This comment was sent to us recently from a guest who stayed at Rose's Folie Cottage.

"The cottage was very cute and we were pleased that we could bring our dogs. The location was great, easy access to everything...we can't wait to come back!"

Thank you to everyone who takes the time to share their thoughts and experiences after staying with us. We love your comments!

We also have some really awesome news to share! Some fabulous people from Quilt Magazine have been here on the island taking pictures in a few of our cottages for a future feature. The article will come out some time next year, and of course we will let you know when that will be! Here are just a couple of sneak peeks to whet your appetite!

Live Like a Local: Thankful on Tybee!

     Thanksgiving is upon us and we are so thankful. Good food, family, friends...they are all a blessing! For those of you spending the holiday here on Tybee, there are plenty of things going on, so no getting bored! Doc's Bar has a full week of festive holiday plans, so head on out and join in the fun! Tonight is their Ladies Bumper Pool Night (Happy Hour pricing for all the ladies!) and Thomas Oliver will be there performing from 7 to 10 pm.
     Thursday is the big day...Thanksgiving! If you are away from family, or simply just need some place to be, Doc's opens at noon. They are celebrating with a FREE turkey and dressing dinner, starting at 2 pm for everyone who wants to be there. Please bring a covered dish to fill out the feast if you are able; if not, that's OK too! It's just a day for us to stop and realize all we have, and be thankful!
     If you don't make it out for dinner, Doc's starts rockin' at 8 pm with Roy and the Circuit Breakers, and they are playing until the turkeys go home! The holidays continues through the weekend with football and the best dance music on Tybee! Sunday, make sure you make it to Doc's for their special Dinner and Music night from 5:30 to 7:30 pm...fabulous live music from Thomas Oliver and your first drink is free! They are offering up Homemade Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan, so skip the turkey left overs and come out to Doc's!
There's a lot more happening on Tybee for the Holidays, but for now, have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Mermaid Sightings: Cookin' With Mermaids

     I just love when people search out mermaids in the world, but I especially love when someone finds mermaids and invites them into their very own home! This beautiful lady lives in Fellow Mermaid Ronnie Tucker's kitchen! Ronnie tells us she is the finishing touch to her recent kitchen-redo.

     She is very unique, with arms and a tail that move! The artist, Sandy Mastroni, is definitely talented and you simply must see the rest of her work over on Etsy. Thank you for sharing your Kitchen Mermaid with us Ronnie! Happy cooking!

More Culinary Adventures with Cottage Cheese!

It's Friday! That means more adventures from our favorite

explorer of all things Tybee...Cottage Cheese!

     To nap or to eat....to eat or to nap? Hmmm. Two of my favorite rituals. How do I solve this dilemma? In this our 21st century I can speed through a drive through, call out for delivery, nuke something in the microwave or scald a cup of dehydrated noodles with instantly hot water from a tap.  The process and techniques with which to satisfy my basic need of food intake should not be this hard.
     But no...I insist on foraging for my food as if I were a Cro-Magnon, dragging my knuckles over the ground, grunting and sniffing the air.  Those who know me all too well are familiar with how my normally sweet disposition (yes, I have a sweet disposition...sometimes) can  turn into surly pouting when I miss my regular feeding times.  We're not talking Godzilla trampling through Tokyo, but I'm just sayin'...
     On a recent foray to Tybee Island, I checked into my overwhelmingly spectacular cottage, Dutton-Waller.  Nestled in between whispering palms near the back river, Dutton-Waller rises majestically out over its pilings with a front stairway sweeping upward as if to whisk you off to heaven.  This is one beautiful place.

The grand, wraparound porch beckons me to sit.  Be still. Behold thy kingdom.  I have the strangest urge to call out for a mint julep.  The porch swing lazily swaying in the breeze.  Calling to me like a siren of the sea. Come, little boy.  Join me for a journey.  Tippy toes just barely touching the floor.
     Just then a pang of hunger hits.  A throaty growl pushes it's way up from my chest.  My backbone... scared it's about to get gnawed by my stomach.  Got to push on.  Cast down my travel bags.  Quickly scan the beds.  Once I eat half of the island I'll need a little nappy.
Behold.  On yonder back portion of the wraparound porch.  The screened in portion.  Billowy white curains.  Can it be?  Eureka!  A sleeping porch!

And then it hits me. Find the nearest restaurant. Grab a quick bite.  Run back to this sleeping porch (It's mine...all MINE!) and grab a few winks.  Sounds good.  Kill two birds.  Drat....birds.  Hungry!
     You probably felt the ground shaking and heard my roar as I scoured the few blocks toward the beach in search of a restaurant or at least someone walking through the neighborhood carrying food that I could take in a fight.  OK.  So what if that would only consist of some hairpulling and eye gouging.  You don't want to end up on the business end of one of my hissy fits.

SCORE!  Look at what I see! I'm gonna cut to the chase.  There's no Tivo in blogging. Go to Stingray's.  Ask for Jim's section.  Order the Shrimp Cocktail for starters. Fresh, wild Georgia Shrimp.  Straight from the waters off Tybee.  Homemade cocktail sauce. Fantabulous! Next, even if you don't see it on the menu ask for the Smoked Yellow Fin Tuna Fish Dip. Sorry.  No photo to show you how incredible it looks.  I ate it before it could be documented on film.  This is one of those "How could something so simply presented be so incredibly flavorful and filling?".  Couldn't tell ya.  Ask Jim to 'splain it.  I'm a foodie, not a chef.

But remember now.  The plan was to grab a quick bite so I could entomb myself in that sleeping porch and get my nap on.  There would be time later to eat a really big meal and totally pass out in one of the indoor bedrooms for the night.  Pay attention.  There are various degrees in napology.  This is the mid afternoon nap.
     Once back at Dutton-Waller I hopped, skipped and then did a jacknife into a swan dive onto the sleeping porch bed.  Oooh.  A pretty chandelier.  It's swinging.  Eyes following back and forth.  ZZZZzzzzzzzzzz. The moral of this story?  You won't find a sign around my neck that says, "Don't feed the wildlife."  Just honor my feeding schedule.  Provide me with any bed, hammock, pallet or air cushion with the utmost of comfort. 
    Well, let's just say if you adhere to these few, teensy rules you won't have to worry about me creating a rats nest out of your hair and I won't use any of my The Three Stooges fisticuffs on ya. It's about sharing how others can make you (meaning me) an easier person to be with.  It's about giving fair warning before you bite.  It's about finding those simple pleasures in life that soothe your savage beast.  It's about learning how to laugh at yourself.  It's about remembering to say thanks when good things come your way.  It's Cottage Cheese!

Mermaids in Our Midst: So Much to Share!

Wow! It might not be summer any longer, but Tybee is still hopping! First, fellow mermaid Linda Witbeck sent us this fabulous email a few days ago...

"Flip Flop Cottage was just what my girlfriends and I were looking for. A comfy cottage to kick back, relax, and catch up with each others' lives! We thoroughly enjoyed our meal and margaritas at the Mexican restaurant at the top of our street - just a short walk there as well as to the beach and several other restaurants. Also, just a short drive to Savannah for shopping and nightlife! We will definitely be back and plan to check out more of Mermaid Cottages' properties as well! ~ Linda" 

 Thank you so much for choosing Mermaid Cottages for your girlfriend trip Linda, and we can't wait for you to return for more Tybee Time!

          What else is going on you ask? Mermaids (and mermen!) here on Tybee are gearing up for a fun filled weekend! Tybee and Seaside Sisters are going Urban Cowboy (and girl!) November 21st. This event will be an outdoor affair at a private marsh front lot on Eagles Nest Drive here on the island. Come out this Sunday from 3 to 7 p.m. and enjoy bulls, BBQ, and beer for a great cause...restoring the Historic Tybee Post Theater! There will be live music, amazing food from Papa's BBQ and Seafood, and wild and wonderful fun for all! So, dust off your boots, get your 10 gallon hats, and get ready to ride the bull! Proceeds for this FUN-raiser benefit the theater and tickets are $25 in advance, or $30 the day of the event. Get your tickets online or head down to Seaside Sisters today!!

Live Like a Local: The 2nd Annual Pickle Run!

     Thanksgiving is only eight days away! Most of us are busy rushing around, making meal plans, and trying to figure out where in the world everyone is going to fit! I like to try to remind myself, when I get too bogged down in the planning of it all, what this season is really all about. Being thankful. For your family, your friends, pets...and your health.
     This year, Mermaid cottages has sponsored an event that truly embodies that thankfulness. Saturday, November 27th, is The 2nd Annual Pickle Run! This 5K beach/road run will be held on Tybee. The event starts at 9 a.m.sharp at the fabulous Huc-a-poos!
     What in the world does a pickle have to do with it all you ask? Well, there is a beautiful story behind this race I simply have to share.

On November 25, 2008, Dylan Robert Hall was born here in Savannah, Georgia. Despite a healthy pregnancy, Dylan suffered meconium aspiration along with 2 other bacterial infections during delivery. The doctors weren’t sure he’d survive his first night. On Thanksgiving Day, two days after his birth, Dylan had shown enough improvement so that mom and dad could hold their baby boy for the first time. As the days went on, ‘Dyl Pickle’ proved to be a strong healthy baby that just happened to be born very sick. During the two weeks Dylan spent in the hospital, the Hall family discovered how lucky they were to live in Savannah where the level of care their baby required was just down the street. Many of the families had to drive long distances to visit their children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery. This is where the Ronald McDonald House® comes in. Established in 1987, the Savannah Ronald McDonald House has provided a “Home away from home” for more than 5,000 families. The House has 10 bedrooms with private baths, a communal living room and kitchen, dining and laundry areas. Each night volunteers from the community provide a home-cooked meal for the families to share. To celebrate Dylan’s 2nd birthday, Mike & Lara Hall and the Huc-a-poos family would like to invite you to participate in the 2nd annual Pickle Run to support our local Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Coastal Empire.

     This story is inspiring in so many ways, but is so heart warming to me because this family really wants to give back to their community in honor of the little boy they are so very thankful for. All the proceeds from The 2nd Annual Pickle Run benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Coastal Empire, so it is a wonderful cause. Please join us next Saturday! The $25 registration fee includes an event t-shirt, one raffle ticket, and a yummy Huc-a-poos breakfast pizza, but registration closes Friday (November 26th) so hurry to the race site for more info. This is a fun and fabulous event, and a great way to remember what this season is all about...giving thanks!

Mermaid Sighting: Delaware to North Carolina

     We have so many mermaid sightings happening! I am so excited everyone is taking time to seek out the magical in their day to day lives...keep it up please!
     I spotted these two mermaids myself. I was traveling in New England about a month ago and spotted this marvelous mermaid in Bethany Beach, Delaware. I love the mix of bright color and rustic style, don't you?!

     I spotted this beauty while in Asheville, North Carolina celebrating my daughter's birthday this past weekend. (Where does the time go, am I right?) Doesn't she seem serene? I loved this one!

     Please keep the sightings coming! We love seeing all the interesting places mermaids pop up! Email your sightings to diane@mermaidcottages.com and include a little info, like the location, if possible. We can't wait to hear from you!

Mermaid Tales: Marsh Mermaid

     Welcome to Marsh Mermaid! This home is ideal for guests looking for the "Mermaid Cottages Experience," but not necessarily an older cottage. Marsh Mermaid is a newer duplex that is extremely private and sound proof. Enjoy your Mermaid Morning Bliss coffee or a relaxing dinner on the deck overlooking sweeping views of Tybee's beautiful salt marshes.

     Marsh Mermaid has three bedrooms, each with it's own bathroom and marsh views, so it is a perfect fit for any type of group. The home is also pet friendly, so bring your furry children along with you! Fido can even relax and catch a nap in the sunny fenced-in yard while you grill up some fresh Georgia seafood. If dining out is what you prefer, you are mere minutes from Tybee gems like A.J.'s Dockside Restaurant, The Breakfast Club, Huc-a-Poo's, and The Crab Shack!
     Marsh Mermaid has everything you'll need for your stay, even complimentary Wifi. Everything is there for a perfect beach getaway...except you! What are you waiting for? Make your reservations for relaxation today!

The adventures of Cottage Cheese: What I Ate And The Nap I Took After

Welcome Cottage Cheese! We love you sharing your Tybee stories with us.  And now- your first guest blog!

Who knew the time would come when happiness for me would mean a heaping plate of good food and somewhere to sleep it off after.   I guess the perpetual mid life crisis I began 10 years ago has given up and left me.  I have evolved.

Now let's be clear.  I still have a healthy appetite for fast red cars, custom furniture from Maitland-Smith, and a little stroll through a shoe department never hurt anybody.  Yet, there's lots to be said for a fine meal and a freshly made bed.

Nowadays, I seem to plan my long weekends and vacations around the sights and smells I might encounter along the roadsides as I travel merrily along...on my way to a comfy, cozy sleeping chamber.

For instance, the flashing speed limit sign on the way into Tybee Island always gives me a pause to scan the roadsides of Highway 80 for new eating establishments or at least foodie places I haven't tried, yet.  And that's how I came to be curious about this outdoor, open building I spied the last time I drove onto the island.  At the rear of the lot I saw a huge, high top van with the words Gerald's Pig and Shrimp emblazened on the side.  Hmmm.  A restaurant with no walls and the kitchen on wheels.  Who would need to get away the quickest?  The patrons or the cook?  And then there was another structure at one end of the lot.  Two stories.  A lift.  Doors marked Men and Women on the second story.  I was intrigued.

I had to stop.   I was on an adventure.

I sauntered up to the ordering window and gave the posted menu a quick look see.  I saw several combinations of fresh seafood and barbeque plates and veggies, hence the pig and shrimp in the name.  Smiling through the window, taking the orders of those ahead of me was a dead ringer for Jerry Garcia in a psychedelic t-shirt.  Had I happened upon the travelling road show for the Grateful Dead?

Ever the active listener, I heard the other patrons rattle off their selections as the smiling man at the window informed everyone that all his food was cooked fresh to order and to please be patient.  I heard someone call him Gerald.  Another piece of the puzzle snapped into place.

When it came my turn I proudly announced I would be having the half dozen fried fresh wild Georgia shrimp, fried okra and sweet tea, the official cocktail of the south.   I'm working toward my online degree in Paula Deen Low Country Sin and Hilarity, so if it ain't got at least a stick of butter and a cup of mayo somewhere in the ingredients it just about ain't fittin' to eat.  Fried it would be!

Let me just tell you it was a beautiful day and sitting outside at a picnic table while I waited for my food has never been more enjoyable. It gave me time to get a good look at that other structure at the end of the lot.  What do you know?  Who ever ate at an open air restaurant with a two story outhouse at one end?  We're talking high cotton here.  There was an open elevator lift for those who didn't want to tackle the stairs.  Glory hallelujah!  Fancy Smancy!  No, I was not tempted to try out the lift.  I'm a thrill seeker and routinely throw caution to the wind. Yet, motoring up to the second level facilities was not on my Bucket List.

Lucky for me my order was announced and I hungrily picked it up and plopped down at my own picnic table.  Here's your free pass to the Clue Bus.  If  you order the half dozen shrimp and Gerald's doing the ciphering you'll most assuredly end up with at least 8 shrimp on your plate. The fried okra?  It was better than snuff...and not half as dusty!  For you less cultured patrons that means it was good eating.  In fact, it was downright fantastic.  I was a happy man.  Fresh seafood from the Georgia waters off Tybee and fresh vegetables from the low country.  I think a choir even gave angelic praise and white doves took flight.

That was my sign.  I had just had a wonderful meal at an exciting new style of restaurant and the heavens had parted.  "Get thee to a sleeping chamber, post haste" rang loud and clear in my head.

Not to worry.  I already knew where I was headed.  This trip I would be hanging my hat at Marsh Mermaid, one of the more modern units in the Mermaid Cottages Collection.  Most of the time I prefer vintage cottage living, but I knew if Marsh Mermaid was represented by Mermaid Cottages it would have to be something special.  Also, I'm a confirmed beach lover and this would be my first stay on the salt water marsh.  Would I like it?  I wasn't sure, but as my beloved heroine Scarlett O'Hara would say, "I'll worry about that tomorrow.  After all, tomorrow's another day."  I had been working on several projects simultaneously, had driven through Atlanta traffic to get to Tybee and I had just eaten one of the best meals of my life.  I could not care about or be bothered with anyone or anything between me and a bed.

I let the car's navigation plot my route and within minutes I was pulling into the driveway at Marsh Mermaid.  If you've ever stayed at a Mermaid Cottages home you already know it will feel like a home made just for you.  Beautiful hardwood floors, exquisite fabrics and textures on the furniture.  Decorated in the best of taste.  I found a handsome bedroom at the front of the unit on the first floor, which meant the master bedroom would be at the top of the stairs.  To the left was another beautiful bedroom, but the bedroom made just for me was to the right.  The master.  My sanctuary for the next several days.  With a huge picture window overlooking the salt marsh.  My window on the world.

You may have heard me rave about the beds at Mermaid Cottages before, but you're gonna hear it again.  You have never had a better night's sleep than to sleep in a bed as prepared by the mermaids (and mermen!) on the housekeeping staff at Mermaid Cottages.  The beds are lush. The linens are crisp.  Everything that's ever been wrong with the world flies out the window once you slide into those sheets and your head hits those pillows.  And just look at my view from my bed!  There goes that angelic choir singing again!  Nighty night!

But wait!  THE END has not flashed across the screen just yet.  Remember.  I had never stayed on the salt marsh before.  Might there be another surprise in store for me?  You bet!  I went out on the deck to catch a glimpse of the sun setting over the marsh and I heard these Clap, Clap, Clapping sounds emanating from the marsh.  What in the world?

The next day I asked several people to help me solve the mystery.  "What's all the clapping about", I asked.  They all told me the same thing.  "That's just nature," they said. "That's the clams, mussels and oysters closing their shells with the tide."  Oh, OK.  That's their story, but I know the truth.  I now know what all the fuss is about.  You see, on the back river salt marsh, as the sun slowly lowers itself until it hovers just above the water, the mussels, clams and oysters get to behold the beauty of the world they live in and give thanks for yet another glorious day on the Georgia coast.  As the sun kisses the salt marsh one can hear it sizzle and then slide beneath the surface.  And the oysters, clams and mussels clap and give thanks.  For they know they are truly blessed to live in paradise.  And they serenade me as I drift off to sleep...perchance to dream...for I know I am truly blessed to bear witness to their sunset.

It's about making the effort.  It's about loving the adventure.  It's about the thrill of a new foodie discovery. It's about giving thanks.  It's Cottage Cheese!
                                                                   THE END

Introducing...Cottage Cheese!

     We here at the Mermaid Cottages blog are excited to have a guest blogger joining the team! Starting tomorrow, please make sure to catch a weekly feature from David...better known as Cottage Cheese! He'll be sharing his Tybee experiences with us, and we can't wait to read all about it! So, please join us in welcoming our new addition and getting your weekly serving of Cottage Cheese!

Mermaids in Our Midst: More Happy Breeze Inn Guests

       We always get a huge smile on our faces when we get letters from happy guests, and this post is no exception! Pam, a recent guest, brought her mom and a few others with her for a stay at Breeze Inn Cottage. Of course she was already a huge fan of the cottage owner, author Mary Kay Andrews, and couldn't wait for a retreat at Breeze Inn to enjoy relaxing with good friends...and a good book!

Mary Kay was kind enough to share Pam's wonderful email with us!

"Dear Mary Kay, just wanted you to know that our trip was great fun and lots of laughs. My mom (86 years) can't stop talking about it...and we LOVED THE BREEZE! It was so homey and comfortable. We settled right in and had a wonderful time. All those wine glasses and coffee mugs were put to great use! Thanks so much for your emails making us feel like Breeze Friends, and for our signed copy of The Fixer Upper, which has a place of honor on my shelf, read a few times!

Best Wishes for a wonderful Holiday Season coming up, Pam" 

 Thank you for sharing Pam! We are so glad you all enjoyed your stay!

Live Like a Local: The Low Country Book Signing

     If you are looking for something fun to do this weekend, look no further! The Discovery Shop at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center will be hosting a book signing this Saturday, November 13th.

     Local author Mallory Pearce will be in The Discovery Shop Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. selling (and signing!) his new field guide, The Low Country. You will be able to purchase a signed, hand-illustrated copy of your very own for the introductory price of just $25! These books will make wonderful gifts for the Low Country Lover in your life, and personal dedications make them special as well! So, don't miss the chance to pick up your autographed copies and meet a wonderful local author. Check it all out at the Marine Science Center this Saturday!

Mermaid Sighting: Manami Art

     Our friend David sent us the most amazing link the other day! Aren't these beautiful? They are by a Dallas, Georgia artist named Manami.

     She has an amazing life story...you can read more about her at her website.  She has loads of beautiful work in her portfolio, so make sure you check it out! Of course, we were naturally drawn to the mermaids! Thanks so much for sharing this link and helping us discover this wonderful artist David!

Mermaid Tales: Breeze Inn Cottage c1943

     Welcome to Breeze Inn! This circa 1943 cottage is the quintessential beach cottage and is the personal family home of Savannah's own, author Mary Kay Andrews. She furnished and named this special cottage with a nod to the fictional Breeze Inn Motel in her New York Times best seller Savannah Breeze. We invite you to step back in time and enjoy this 1940s inspired Tybee Beach Cottage!

     Breeze Inn Cottage was totally restored and remodeled in 2009. The entire cottage is decorated with family friendly antique and vintage treasures, all collected from flea markets and antique markets from across the country by Mary Kay herself! The cottage has beautiful reclaimed heart pine floors throughout, as well as hexagon tiled bathroom floors and loads of vintage fixtures. The fabulous pink front screened door is even a treasure, discovered in an antique market in New England.

     Breeze Inn Cottage is located on 2nd Avenue, a quiet street on Tybee's bike trail. During your stay, you are centrally located to everything Tybee has to offer! The cottage is an easy 2 block stroll to the 9th Street beach walk over.
     You are also an easy walk to the grocery store and restaurants...The Dolphin Reef, Stingrays, and the famous Breakfast Club just to name a few! There's off street parking for three cars, but bring your bicycles to get around like a true local! With three bedrooms and three full baths, the cottage sleeps 8 and is perfect for family trips (bring your furry kids too!), girlfriend getaways, and a wonderful choice for book lovers of all ages. So, plan a stay at Breeze Inn Cottage soon! Enjoy the feel of a by-gone era and take a chance to discover the magic of slowing down.

Tybee Tidbits: Steel Magnolia FUN-rasier

     Get ready for some real theater fun! Next Thursday, there will be another FUN-raising event held at the Historic Tybee Post Theater. Tybee Casting for Stars Contestant Renee DeRossett will be directing the TAPS production of a southern classic...Steel Magnolias!

     If you have never seen the play or the movie, it's a wonderful story following the precious bond of friendship among six Louisiana ladies. It's a definite must-see!
     Make sure you come early because the best part of this event is a special afternoon of beauty at Truvy's Beauty Spot! Come and enjoy manicures, pedicures, and style with the cast of Steel Magnolias before the evening's performance.

     All proceeds from the Thursday night production of Steel Magnolias will be donated to the Casting for Stars Campaign to benefit the Historic Tybee Post Theater. Plan to make Thursday, November 11th, a girlfriend night of beauty and theater fun...all for a great cause!

Mermaids in Our Midst: Cheryl and Friends at Breeze Inn

     We just love hearing from our guests! We love each and every story, especially when we get to share in the wonderful memories made by friends. Recently, Cheryl and her girlfriends stayed at Breeze Inn Cottage, owned by none other than Savannah's own Mary Kay Andrews! Mary Kay shared this email from Cheryl with me. It's stories like this that always make my heart smile!

"...My 3 friends and I returned about an hour ago from 3 glorious days at your Breeze Inn. We had a great "Girlfriend Weekend"...just 3 "young broads" ages 62 to 70! The cottage is adorable, decorated with so much that is familiar from our own past. It was the perfect place for laughing, talking for hours, praying for our families, and of course, reading! All 4 of us are "Beach Girls." Marie is originally from Savannah, Beth is from Waycross, and Harveda and I grew up together in Jacksonville and have been friends for 50 years. I lived in Tampa and spent a great deal of time on the St. Pete Beach and around the St. Pete Pier, so I loved seeing the old post cards that you used in decorating! We didn't want to leave, and I'm so anxious to go back as soon as possible.

 Thank you for making Breeze Inn available. It was a treat beyond words. Thank you also for such entertaining books. I'm excited about Summer Rental and looking forward to reading it next summer.

Hugs, Cheryl"

     I'm so glad Mary Kay decided to share this with us!! I just love knowing life long memories are being made in our cottages, and that we get a glimpse of them each time we get a note or email like this one. Thank you Cheryl, Marie, Harveda, and Beth, for staying with us and for taking the time to share your memories too!

     Want to make your own memories? Visit the Breeze Inn Cottage website for more information. You can also explore more cottages over at Mermaid Cottages as well! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Live Like a Local: PurpleStride Savannah 2010

     Please come out to Tybee November 6th (this Saturday!!) and join the Savannah Affiliate of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network for The PurpleStride 2010 event! This 5K Walk/Run and 1/4 mile Kiddie Run is one of the first events planned for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and will be a one-of-a-kind "twilight" PurpleStride, so bring the whole family. There will be musical entertainment as well as snacks and light refreshments for all to enjoy!

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network photo

     Registration for this event is ongoing online at the group's website. Fees are $25 for adults (or $30 day of event) and $15 for ages 3 through 15. Survivors, volunteers, and ages 2 and under are FREE!
     The fun will be centered at the Pier and Pavilion here on Tybee, and registration opens at 2:30 pm the day of the event. Come on down and get registered! The 1/4 mile Kiddie Run begins at 4:00 pm, followed by the Adult 5 K Walk/Run at 4:30 pm. There will even be an Awards Ceremony at 6:30 pm, so make sure you don't miss a minute!

imagesource.com

     The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, in their own words, "is the only national organization creating hope in a comprehensive way through research, patient support, community outreach, and advocacy for a cure." You can read more about the group and their efforts at their website, just click the link above. You can also learn more about pancreatic cancer and how you can help there as well!
     This is a fun way to raise money for a great cause...not to mention a wonderful excuse to come to the beach! We hope to see you there!

Mermaid Sighting: Rhode Island and More!

     I recently took a road trip to Rhode Island and, of course, kept my eyes peeled for any mermaids that may have been hiding in plain sight. And what do you know, I found one! This lovely lady lives in Newport, RI. How does she keep that figure living above a cookie shop?! Guess we'll never know. Just beautiful, isn't she?

     And, speaking of road trips, our friend David saw these funny signs not too long ago, and I just have to show them to you! Love them, thanks for sharing David!

     If you see a mermaid, make sure to take a picture! Send your sightings to diane@mermaidcottages.com and your photos could be our next featured Mermaid Sighting! We can't wait to hear from you!

A Life Well Lived

There will be a celebration of a Well Lived Life for Ms. Sylvia at Doc’s, on Saturday Nov. 6^th, starting at 6:00, and going on for the rest of the night. Please bring a covered dish and all of your good memories of a great lady. In honor of her we are asking everyone to wear a Turban or a nice hat if you got one, Vodka and Water will be the drink of the day, and Turquoise is her favorite color. Any musicians out there that want to come and play a song or two are welcome. The family has asked that instead of flowers please help someone else in need.

Ms. Sylvia’s last wishes were to be cremated, her ashes to be spread on the water, and play “When The Saints Go Marching In”. Mike Scarbrough has graciously donated his boats for this. If you would like to be part of this service please email us at docsbartybee@aol.com so we can get a head count. Not sure when this will happen, but we need to get an idea of how many people would like to attend.

Thank You

Doc's Bar Tybee Island Ga.
62 Years Old www.docsbartybee.com
Doc's On Facebook
Official Headquarters Of The Tybee Island Cougar Club
Tybee Island Dart League

Mermaid Tales: Little Fish Cottage

     Welcome to 1307 Lovell Avenue, home of Little Fish Cottage! Little Fish is a newly renovated 1930s Tybee Beach Cottage. this quaint cottage has a tin roof, a large screened-in porch across the front, and is situated on a quiet neighborhood street just 1 and a half blocks from the beach! Little Fish Cottage is the perfect place for couples, friends, families, and your four legged pals! 

     When you stay at Little Fish Cottage, you are a short stroll to the fishing pier and pavilion, the beach and back river, and all the wonderful restaurants, shops, and galleries that "Downtown" Tybee has to offer! Stingrays and Doc's Bar are definitely local favorites you must visit while on the island! Little Fish is conveniently located in the mid-beach area, putting you only 6 blocks from Memorial Park and it's picnic areas, tennis and basketball courts, and children's play areas. You are also close to the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, a great place to explore and learn more about Tybee and it's marine life!

     This cottage even has it's own website, so make sure to visit and learn more about this Tybee treasure! So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Little Fish Cottage to relax, enjoy and play...that's what Tybee is all about!