Pat Allen, a multifaceted individual, relocated to Highlands, NC over two decades ago, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her illustrious career. This move led to the establishment of the Morning Star Inn, a reputable Bed and Breakfast Inn complemented by a cooking school. A testament to her achievements, Southern Living Magazine recognized her establishment as one of their favorites. The inn ran for an impressive seven years under Pat's expert guidance.Her flair for design, stemming from her stint as a decorator in Macon, GA, combined with a two-year culinary training, played pivotal roles in the success of her ventures. Her journey through the culinary world was further enriched as she donned the hat of a food critic and shared kitchen space with renowned celebrity chefs. This culinary voyage culminated in the publication of two cookbooks penned by Pat herself: ""Whisk upon a Star"" and ""Mouth of the South.""The name 'Morning Star Inn' was inspired by a church hymn, showcasing Pat's profound connection to her spiritual side. This venture wasn't just business for her. She felt a deep-rooted calling to initiate it. As time went on, it became evident that the inn served as a sanctuary for many of her guests. They opened up to Pat about their personal tragedies, solidifying her belief that this path was destined for her.In her personal life, Pat shared a wonderful marriage of thirty-three years with her husband, Dr. Pat Allen - a retired oral surgeon hailing from Jackson, Mississippi, who boasts an impressive background as a former Mayo Clinic fellow. He passed away six years ago prompting her into the hurdle of grief.But Pat's expertise isn't limited to inns and cookery. With a keen eye for homes and a knack for decorating, she transitioned smoothly into a lucrative career in real estate. After serving as the Broker-in-Charge at a local firm in Highlands, NC for seven years, and consistently outshining her peers, Pat ventured on to establish her own firm, Pat Allen Realty Group. Her accolades in real estate are numerous - from being a certified luxury home marketing specialist in the region to being a proud member of both the Million Dollar Guild and the Institute for Luxury Homes. Her unparalleled efforts in the field led her to be crowned The Best Realtor (R) in Highlands by The Highlander's readership. Her success led to a merger with Allen Tate Realtors based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the largest and most successful independent real estate firm in the country and proud members of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Luxury Portfolio. She continues to excel in Highlands, North Carolina. Licensed in both NC & GA, Pat's success is a reflection of her relentless hard work, unwavering dedication to her clientele, and her exceptional negotiating and marketing skills.
""An empowering beacon of hope for those navigating the tangled webs of dissatisfaction, Hurdles in a Girdle-Holding Life Together When You're Bursting at the Seams offers invaluable insights and practical guidance to women grappling with the suffocating constraints of a toxic marriage, career, or life in general. Through Allen's anecdotes and empowering strategies, this book serves as a lifeline, illuminating the path towards reclaiming one's genuine self and forging a brighter, more fulfilling future. A must-read for anyone seeking to break free from the confines of their circumstances and embrace the boundless possibilities that await beyond, revealing the true purpose of life."" -Jack Canfield, Co-author of the #1 NY Times Best-Seller Chicken Soup for the Soul Series and #1 NY Times Best-Seller, Success Principles. ""Hurdles in a Girdle takes you by the hand from page one and has you clapping at the end. Filled with love, life, and laughter . . . Hurdles in a Girdle is awe-inspiring, and a must read!"" -Patty Aubery, #1 New York Times Best-selling Author, Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul ""Allen's 'bare all' memoir about love, laughter, and loss is an inspiration to learn that it is never too late to conquer all! Pat takes you from 'pain to triumph, ' and 'poverty to penthouse!' Great read!!"" -Rhonda Shear, Hollywood actress, comedian, author, intimate apparel creator and designer of the Ahh Bra