Does MABDR stand for Mid-Atlantic Backroad Discovery Route or MAGICAL ADVENTURE Backroad Discovery Route?  For us, it now means the later.

Yes, I do.  Yes, we do.
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And just like that, we wrote our own fairytale.  At a scenic overlook on section 7 of the Mid-Atlantic BDR, Clay asked me to be his wife.  Unfortunately, it was the ONE overlook I did NOT have the 360-camera rolling, the one scenic stop he didn’t turn on his helmet camera, and the one stop that was in the sweltering 90-degree sun.  But in full ADV gear, helmet and all, Clay reached into his pocket, pulled out the most adorable wooden box, and got down on his knee and through our Cardos, asked me to marry him.  I shook my head yes (because I was speechless), we took off our helmets, and I said “of course” from a tear-filled face. Or perhaps it was sweat?  Either way, it was the most amazing moment of my life.  We subsequently turned on the cameras, propped up the iPhone and attempted to capture some footage from the perfect “us” moment.  I couldn’t have imagined a more suitable engagement – Clay and I doing what we love, in a place that felt like we were the only people in the world.  And in the warmest sunshine, which I love!  

My much awaited first trip to New Orleans was incredible!  Finally, after COVID restrictions, job and financial restrictions, and all other possible road blocks were eliminated, we were able to make a Valentine’s Day trip to NOLA.
 
Since Clay had been there before, and had idea of what he wanted to show me, we made very little plans other than a few tours I knew we couldn’t miss.  Day one we stayed in a romantic AirBNB just outside the Quarter on Frenchmen Street.  This is a great area if you want the charm of the Quarter, without the chaos. “The Red Room” featured beautiful Victorian furniture, local artwork highlighting the music scene, and even a few spooky elements. Our host was also very accommodating and, instantly we were relaxed.

Another successful motocamping trip in the books!  This time, we had to outrun Hurricane Henri so our trip was cut short by a day.  But judging by the video below, it didn't hinder our endless excitement and adventure.  We were able to hit all the awesome places - Hayfields Cafe, Hardscrabble Farmstand, Angry Orchard Cider House, Tusten Cup, Hawks Nest, and the Irish Whisper Public House.  Safe bet that Danielle's first motocamping trip is the beginning of many more to come!  Now, watch the video...

​So, our first moto-camping trip of the season was a huge success!  We took a quick trip across the Long Island Sound for the 4th of July weekend to escape the Hamptons tourists here on the East End.  We rode a few of the gorgeous roads we discovered last year, as well as some new gems.  All were so beautiful; it was almost impossible to trim our video montage any shorter.  

What an incredible trip we had to Salem this past weekend – perfect riding weather, scenic roads, and such an historical, and spooky town!  Such a great way to kick-off our favorite season!

The only unfortunate part – we only had two days and 400+ miles ahead of us.

Wow, an epic motocamping trip this Memorial Day weekend!  Although it was a quick trip, it couldn’t have been better!  

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​Although we’ve been mostly focusing on prepping for our road trip through the Great Smokey Mountains, we decided that we NEED a getaway this upcoming Memorial Day weekend.  We chose moto-camping to be sure and keep costs down, while still experiencing all we can during this ongoing pandemic.  

Can’t lie, the fact that the talented people at the construction company that I work for helped design AND build this establishment, was a HUGE reason for taking a ride to the South Fork just to go to a “bakery”.  Oh, and the beautiful weather DEFINITELY helped (60F in January - I'll take it!).
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Carissa’s Bakery, in East Hampton, has created a huge local buzz since it opened this past summer 2019.  There’s been countless Instagram posts, write-ups in local publications, and various comments about how spectacular this project by Lettieri Construction turned out.  And I must say, I wasn’t disappointed either.

Best present of the season (other than my brother surviving a car accident on Christmas Eve – yes, God is good!) The Cardo Packtalk Slim – helmet communication device.  Never having any type of communication device beyond a cell phone with wireless headphones that fell to the ground every time I took off my helmet, THIS feels completely surreal!  I can finally listen to music, talk to fellow riders, communicate with Siri, and control the device-all with my voice!

(No more texting and riding!  Safety first – New Year’s Resolution)

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​Mammy's Kitchen
114 North Third Street
Bardstown, KY 40004

In this quaint, historic village, I saw a sign above a restaurant, "Mammy's Kitchen" and my growling stomach begged me to explore. Upon entering I was greeted by the most courteous southern drawl requesting me to "take a seat wherever ya want". I made myself cozy in the booth and took in the eclectic surroundings. The walls of the restaurant were covered with whimsical Southern chotchkies: think old barn doors, signs with barn animals and cute cliques, and vintage clocks. The red china cabinet was a stand out feature, along with the stuffed animals adorning a high shelf to celebrate the spring. Even the old worn out chairs, and tacky vinyl covered booths seemed to fit right-in. The waitresses topped-off the warm atmosphere with their friendly smiles, wearing shirts with the slogan, "Southern Cookin Makes You Good Lookin". And yes, they all actually looked like they ate this home-cooking, showing off their cute curves with fitted shirts.

While the menu wasn't expansive nor healthy, as are usual requirements in my favorite restaurants, it was definitely reminiscent of a visit to grandma's house: the special being open-face roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes and green beans. I had to give-in to my vegan diet and order what was printed on the menu as "The Best Grilled Cheese Ever" which was "Texas Toast" with tomato and pepper jack cheese. I had them hold the bacon. The sandwiches even came with sides I distinctly remember having so often at grandmas house: thin, oily chips with a bright green pickle. And I must say, the meal totally hit the spot and was worth breaking my diet to have the full, vintage experience at Mammy's Kitchen.