everythings more texan in texas

~Amanda Terranova

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Read more about why I chose The Wounded Warrior Project

sugarlips and bikerchicks

 One of the Good Ol' Georgia boys I know just called me "sugarlips," I got a kick out of that :) So, the day is fast approaching when I leave! I took my last final on the 6th, and I started packing this morning (I'll do a separate post on the complete pack list). I need to do some housecleaning and hit the grocery store (/liquor store to stock up for my friends staying at my house). I have a thousand emails to send, you should see my to-do list :( 

My dog checking out the
pile in my living room ready
to pack into saddle bags :)

 I picked up a wrist splint from Care Medical on Prince Ave for $36. My throttle wrist has been giving me some trouble (sometimes the outside of the joint burns SOOO badly). So Ive been trying to rehab it and build its strength before my trip. I switched up my workout routine to include fingertip wall pushups, and planks with fists (instead of on the flats of my hands). I have Ashley Maxwell, a friend and colleague, to thank for the rehab advice- she knows her shit, its really helping!  I also have a Cramp Buster on the way. It is a $9 device that fits around the throttle and lets you maintain speed but releases your grip. I will let you know how well it works. 

 Cramp Buster

 In case you haven't heard- This Saturday (May 10th) a few girlfriends and I are having a Bike Wash from 10am to 2pm at NPRDucati. Come by and let us wash the highway off your bike. Proceeds will benefit The Wounded Warrior Project. We will be firing up the grill for some burgers and hotdogs! So bring a beer or two and hang out for the afternoon :) Also please, please spread the word! I could use your help inviting people. 

 Preparations for the kickoff party at Allison Creek Farm are under way. Keep your schedule clear for the evening of May 16th and I will send out the rest of the information soon! My sister and I are also working on a party at Durhamtown when Margie and I get back so expect those details soon as well :) I am heading to Stagecoach in Buckhead to see a few friends tonight and pick up more donations. So far between pledges and donations we have raised about $5000!!! 

 I've dreamed off and on through the years of getting a license to fly a plane. So when I met a pilot last weekend I enjoyed the opportunity to learn a little bit about the lifestyle. Our conversation left me with the realization that I had no idea what its like to be a pilot. While I am certain that I would enjoy the well-known benefits of a captains uniform (the layovers, chasing sunsets and oh how I love discovering new restaurants- hey I know myself ;) Turns out pilots work A LOT, not to mention the time investment to even get licensed. And its more sunrises than sunsets (which are equally amazing--I just usually sleep through them). I don't think it pays very well, at least in the beginning. Yes, he had some heart thumping stories similar to the ones I find on my motorcycle, but in the end, I think a high altitude life would be too lonely for me. I have deep roots here in Athens. And I like seeing both family and friends often :) Perhaps if I ever find myself with a lot of extra time (and money) it would be a fun adventure. 

 Last night a friend and I checked out Athens Word of Mouth. I really didn't know what to expect, except person after person reading their poems. And I'm happy to report I was impressed with the quality of work our Athens poets produced. The verses were inspiring and captivating. The audience was appriciative of the courage it takes to get on stage and bare your soul. If you like this kind of thing and want to check it out the group meets the first Wednesday of every month at The Globe. You can even sign up to share something you've written.  

 I don't write poetry (I'm still struggling with the idea that I've become a writer), but I want to share my favorite poem from my favorite poet. "To The Not Impossible Him" by Edna St. Vincent Millay. IMO, Millay is one of the most fascinating women of the 20th century. One of the first openly bisexual woman, she lived in NYC during the Roaring Twenties, you've probably heard her "First Fig" (My candle burns at both ends; / It will not last the night; / But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends— / It gives a lovely light!).

"To The Not Impossible Him"

HOW shall I know, unless I go
  To Cairo and Cathay,
Whether or not this blessed spot
  Is blest in every way?
Now it may be, the flower for me
  Is this beneath my nose;
How shall I tell, unless I smell
  The Carthaginian rose?
The fabric of my faithful love
  No power shall dim or ravel
Whilst I stay here,–but oh, my dear
  If I should ever travel!

---->  Here's a hint, reread it- because it's not about travelling at all, it is about men.      

Until next time, 
~Amanda Terranova

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S'mores and More :)

A message for the officer who flashed their lights at me last Saturday afternoon: Thank you for not pulling me over. AND I swear I had no idea that my license plate was missing.

 I explored the Twilight festivities for a while.  I headed home early, because I wanted to head down to Sapelo Island for the weekend. I woulda been on the island earlier but I'd frustratingly left my debit card at 40Watt. On the way highway home I had just emerged from a pack of cars when I saw a car approaching me in the slow lane (on a four lane divided highway). I checked my speed, I decided the driver must be a crazy mo-fo and I slowed to let him/her pass and go on their way. Turned out to be a Georgia State Patrol Car... so, yeah. They passed me, switched into my lane and immediately moved into the left turn lane. As I passed them again, he or she flashed their spotlight on me. I stopped for gas a few miles down the road, I removed my gear (which I almost never do when I refuel), and took a few deep breaths-- when I noticed I had empty space where my effin' license plate was supposed to be located. Again to the officer: THANK YOU, and I already replaced it! Good thing my father has a metal shop and I can make a new mounting bracket!

My dogs want to be
beach bums

 In light of the missing license plate I decided to take the jeep to the coast (the tag commissioner doesn't work on the weekends). I forget how expensive fuel is when I can fill my tank with premium fuel for $12. And fuel goes so fast! Jeepers. Its a good thing I am taking the bike to the far coast, I could never afford the fuel for less than 60 miles per gallon.

Caught this guy (or gal ;)
in a net when we fished with
the locals 

 So ya'll know that I avoid interstates as often as possible. I guess I feel like the journey is part of the experience, and I miss so much on the interstate. A perfect example, as I passed through Sparta, GA I watched a kid (couldnta been more than 4 or 5 years old) riding his tricycle down the sidewalk, the most adorable thing of all time. I imagined he was on the way to his grandmother's (or perhaps his Aunt LaLa's ;) house for some fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. It made me think of days-gone-by and inspired me to find a country music station (that played music my parents when I was a kid). I rediscovered some of my old favorites-  Strawberry Wine, Indian Outlaw, Pickin Wildflowers... Also I am already a sustaining member GPB/NPR! I understand your need to hold a membership pledge drive- but a girl can only take so much!

My friends exploring Sapelo
in the back of a pickup :)

 Sapelo Island is a fairly remote getaway on the Georgia coast. It is EASILY my favorite weekend getaway from Athens, mostly because I don't have to put up with a lot of traffic (the island has a permanent population of 67 people). But also because I LOVE the people that live on the island. When I am on Sapelo I daydream that I could live there, but the reality is that I am too ambitious-- and too busy. But who knows what the future will bring...

Sunset on Sapelo

 A ferry service provided by GA Dept of Natural Resources is the only way to access the island, unless you have your own boat and know how to captain it of course ;) There is one -TINY- store on the island where you can get water, beer, snacks, and some locally made crafts. This was my third trip to this sanctuary. I stayed at Reynolds Mansion with a large party of people.  You can also rent houses or camp. Only 3% of the island is in private ownership.  They rest is owned and managed by the state. It is mostly used for research.  I learned that our bonfire was the last one allowed for the year. Apparently the loggerhead turtles use the island to nest and fires distract them. I met a very nice Park Ranger who took me exploring after the fire went out. He showed me the old cotton plantation ruins, the lighthouse, the thousands of years old shell rings- I even got a special tour of the Mansion where he showed me the hidden door that protected the liquor stash during Prohibition. The next morning I got up early and bicycled to the beach (and on the beach). I laid for three hours, reading and writing... dozing by myself  :) I watched a school of dolphins circle in the tide, feeding and playing. It was very difficult to leave for home later that day.

     

I promise to post more often after my last final on Tuesday. If you are in Athens this weekend, check out the 36th Annual Human Rights Festival and The Indie South Fair.

~Amanda Terranova

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"Hey Bulldog"

 I stopped by NPRDucati to pick up some donations for the Wounded Warrior fundraiser this afternoon. It happened to be a demo day... (how convenient right?). After a half of second consideration, I decided to try  the new Monster 1200 (the other tempting option was the Panigale 899, saved for another day ;)

The Monster 1200 on demo day at NPRDucati

 I spend a lot of time on my bike, and I haven't ridden a large number of bikes, so I was a little concerned that I would not ride well. Luckily, the Monster was well trained (and powerful) and she took care of me :) The placement and shape of the tank makes it seem HUGE when you look down on it. It was a good reminder of the power, but it didn't fit well with my long legs. The tank bulged where my legs wanted to rest flat against the tank.

 I left the shop and found a few comfortable, familiar roads. On Malcolm Bridge Rd I passed a small truck where I discovered the difference in power between my Multi and the Monster. Wellington will pick and pass a vehicle pretty quick, but not that quick... not nearly that quick.  I kept it easy through Rays Church Rd (where I found a hilarious and slightly offensive church sign- how am I still surprised by these distasteful signs after so many years in the south?), to Hillsboro Rd, Snows Mill... The Monster was really easy, light and fast through the curves; I didn't have to work hard at all. Turning onto Hwy 78 to head back to the shop

 I nailed the throttle, and discovered  that I was happy to have the bulges on the side of the tank AND what it felt like to ride a wheelie-- coming out of second gear. I bet my smile was a mile wide under my helmet. My Multi just doesn't have the power to do something like that, and thank heaven. Rolling the Monster's throttle put me at WAY-TOO-FAST in second and third. I don't need that speed or power. It was fun. Indescribably, incredibly, indiscriminately fun.

 I forgot how much the wind pulls on you when your bike is missing a windshield. If you want to talk to Paul about test riding the Monster or other Ducs you can contact him here. Paul, I don't think its the right bike for my father. One day I will find one that suits him, but that the 2014 Monster 1200 isn't the one.

I'm off to the islands for the rest of the weekend! Ya'll have fun at Twilight :)



~Amanda Terranova
Follow me on G+: Amanda Terranova
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Read more about why I chose The Wounded Warrior Project

           

More Info:
NPRDucati Address: 4071 Mars Hill Rd, Bogart GA 30622

"the cycle of our souls"

ERMAHGERD!
FRSH PRVD RD!

 A road between The Refuge and my office is getting a fresh layer of asphalt and I am SOOO EXCITED about it. Yesterday I had to wait for 10 minutes for a pilot car to follow through the road construction. I bounced enthusiastically in place on my bike while I passed the time, not even caring about the wait. Daydreaming about the smooth, flat road they were creating :) and how I will soon be meandering down it. 

The much anticipated new brewery downtown is finally open to the public.  Creature Comforts is giving tours and selling samples starting this Saturday at 5:30p (to 730p). They have two other events planned for the same day- the 4th Annual Good Food and Good Beer Block Party (1p-4p). And Slingshot is hosting a Twilight after-party (10p-2a). Both events are in the brewery. Go have a beer, and let me know what you think. I heard on the radio show Athens New Matters they spent $2mil upgrading the building and it shows! 

 Twilight Criterium is this weekend! The road cycling race is a world class event, attracting cyclists from far, far away to try to claim the title. Surprisingly, no one from Athens has ever taken the men's title, but according to the Athens Banner Herald, a few Athenians could possibly win the title this year. The 706 Project is a team based in Athens has David Cueli that looks promising. Also look for Jordan Heimer, Ty Magner, or Frank Travieso, all local favorites. This is one of the few (if not only) opportunity to drink on the streets of Athens, and it is ALWAYS a party. 

 The Dirty Guv'nahs are coming back to town for a sold-out show on Saturday! I highly suggest you take the opportunity to go to this show at The Theatre if you can find tickets (I've had luck in the past just showing up at the door with cash, there is usually at least one person trying to get rid of a ticket). I danced like a fool at their last show and had a grand time. I even bought a tshirt ;)


 The Packway Handle Band, a local bluegrass favorite is playing tonight (Friday) at 40-Watt. Tickets are only $10! I'm gonna try to convince my date that he wants to go. I'm sure it won't be too difficult :) Packway Handle has been playing in Athens since 2001. You don't get to be an Athens staple unless you have real talent. Thankfully, the community here supports our local artists. That's why Athens has been turning out talented musicians for decades.  

 Oh, also, Shawn Mullins is playing at The Melting Point tomorrow. He makes GREAT Americana/singer songwriter music, you may remember him from "Lullaby", which was nominated for a Grammy. His new stuff is AWESOME. 

Have fun, but don't have too much fun ;)
~Amanda Terranova





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It All Began With A...

 Someone FINALLY fixed the inane requirement to reduce your speed on the Loop between the Hwy 78 exit at the mall and North Ave. As of March 17th, the speed limit on the entire span of Loop 10 is now 65 mph.

Heading out of Athens on Chase street, right before you go under the loop, there is a little Mexican restaurant on the right before you go under the bridge. Tlaloc El Mexicano. And, oh my gawd, it was easily the best Mexican food I've had in Athens. When you go make sure you order the pupusas, little pouches of cheese and jalapenos (you can also get them stuffed with pork). They are slap-yo-mama good (love you Mom ;). The service was phenomenal. The owner sat at my table, pointed out his favorites on the menu and helped me find something that perfectly suited my taste buds. A word of caution, it was A LOT of food. When I saw the plate, I planned on eating it over the course of two meals... but instead I ate the whole of it. The exquisite agony of overeating. El Mexicano is now on my list of regular haunts :) It seems like a great place for ladies night next week with my girlfriends-- vegetarian options AND margaritas?!?! YES :)

In case you are wondering Tlaloc is an Aztec rain god ("He who makes things sprout").

 Last night a date took me to UGA's Observatory for their open house. Unfortunately, those who decide things said it was too overcast (admittedly, it was...) to use telescope to gaze at all the fascinating things in the night sky. So instead they had a lecture on basics of astronomy and dark matter. I actually found it very intriguing. I walked away with a new curiosity regarding the way that maths and sciences are inter-connected. In chemistry right now I'm studying the elements and how they interact. The elements I am learning about are made by the stars (well the ones here on Earth WERE made by stars) and somewhere along the edge of the universe elements are being made right now. Gold, Oxygen,... Krypton. Astronomers have been studying the sky for thousands of years; they know some really interesting things. So anyways, I am looking forward to the open houses this coming fall. I want to see Jupiter with my own eyes :) And now I've added a telescope to the list of things I'll buy when I win the lottery. Btw, I am not able to ride away gracefully on my motorcycle when I know someone is watching (last night). I hope I don't fall over when Margie and I kick off for California. Maybe I will at least leave people with a laugh in their heart.

 Two of my favorite local bands have album release parties tonight (Friday): Cicada Rhythm (Caledonia Lounge) and Muuy Bien (The World Famous). You should check them out if you are looking for some fun. Kelly's Authentic Jamaican Food has an event this Saturday (all day). Fester Hagood and others will be turning out some feel good music. I love Fester's work and Kelly's Jamaican Food, so I'm planning on stopping by after work... and before I head to NPRDucati. Apparently the tail light on my motorcycle only works sporadically... which is kinda dangerous when you only have one. Oh, and Twilight Criterium is next weekend, so prepared accordingly!

Me and a few of my loved ones :)

 Lastly, happy Easter everyone! I hope you get to spend time with your loved ones and try not to overindulge on chocolate and jelly beans... or other edibles... Easter is on April 20th this year ;)

~Amanda Terranova

More info:
Athens Banner Herald's article on new speed limit
Tlaloc El Mexicano address:
1225 N. Chase St,  Athens, Georgia 30601
UGA's Observatory- located on top of the physics building on UGA's main campus
220 Cedar St, Athens GA

MotoChicks Coast to Coast for Wounded Warrior Project

 I have been overwhelmed by the response for The Wounded Warrior fundraiser from my friends and family. I started collecting donations at NPRDucati's Monster unveil party (Thank you Paul :). For those of you who are new to my posts, I've been planning a coast to coast trip for a while. Only recently I embraced the opportunity to raise money for veterans.

My parents, both veterans, and myself

 I was raised by two Army Military Police Officer veterans. As a result, I have a healthy respect for any family or friends that serve my country. A few months ago I was telling a friend about this trip I was planning across the country on my motorcycle. They mentioned (since I had started a blog about my adventures), that I use the opportunity to raise money and awareness about the needs of veterans. After asking around, I found out The Wounded Warrior Project helps a lot of retired military.  I don't have the space (or your attention) enough to list all that The Wounded Warrior Project offers. Overall, they provide veterans with visible, mental and emotional wounds with tools needed to transition back to civilian life. Specifically, the Project helps veterans with physical injuries resume active lifestyles, grant financial assistance, and arrange job opportunities. My box of WWP buttons, sticker and other promotional material arrived earlier this week and I am looking forward to passing some stuff out to some of those who have already donated. (So if you gave to me last weekend, then expect to see my smiling face again soon :)

 Okay, so my goal is to collect $10,000 to donate to Wounded Warrior Project this trip. I have calculated my costs for the trip to be about $2000. This includes food, fuel, and the other necessities. I am trying to do as much couch-surfing as possible to keep my costs down. (So I may be hitting you up-- if you are following me from outside of Georgia ;) I am donating $2500 of my own money, to cover all of my costs and then some. This ensures that all the money raised goes to the Project. There are several ways to contribute.

 

 Pledge to donate per mile. Upon completion of the trip I will announce my total miles. You can sign up for this option in person, or email me. I am working on finding a way to show easily my miles every day. Margie and I haven't worked out a specific route, but it is around 3,000 miles depending on how you slice it... (and Margie and I have been known to follow a wild hair or two ;) so keep that in mind.

 You can also make a flat donation. Thanks to the party at NPRDucati, I have already collected several hundred dollars- some checks, gear, gas card, and lots of emails for people interested in more information. I hope to connect with a few businesses across the country, blogging and picking up donations if you know anyone out west that wants some promotions---and for a good cause! I have set up an Paypal account (click here or follow the familiar donate button below) if you choose to support my cause, but cant attend the kickoff party. Oh yeah, there is gonna be a party... a kickoff party on May 16th (more details to come!) where a donation box and pledge sign up will be found. Also hopefully, beer, food and (I'm certain) good times and laughs among some great people as well ;)
I am looking forward to this new adventure. Thank you for taking the time to read my posts, and please consider giving.  I will readily provide access to my records if you are interested so feel free to contact me with any questions.... or suggestions.... or jokes. Because I like to laugh :)

 ~Amanda Terranova
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Blues Skies

 The wisteria is blooming and it smells soooo sweet :) The sweet smells of spring needs to be on your list of reasons to ride your motorcycle to work and leave your car at home. We shouldn't be locked up tightly in cramped travelling boxes when the world smells so sweet and the air is warm and moist on our skin. When I'm riding, and I cannot pick up cell phone calls, alone in my helmet, my only thoughts center around staying safely on my bike... I noticed how truly rich and wonderful the world is. So many things that I worry about are really just not worth my time and they just melt away, and I am free to notice the climbing purple flowers.

 Ladies (and gents too if wineries are your thing), there is a winery about 30 minutes north of Athens! I recently took a friend to Boutier Winery for a birthday celebration; and we had a grand time. The winery is owned and run by a couple, Mary and Victor. Mary has a charming Irish accent; and she provides excellent conversation while she shares her husband's wines with you. You can taste 10 wines for $10 or 6 wines for $6.  I REALLY REALLY liked their Cythiana. A dark, dry red that has a little bit of the peppery spice that I love in my reds, with a marvelous aftertaste.  I also recommend trying their Peach o Peno. Its a Georgia Peach wine that has been cut with jalapeno. The smell burns your nose hairs, but the flavor is worth a taste, unique and unforgettable, not nearly as hot as the smell suggests. Please just remember to bring a designated driver or book a night at the Bed and Breakfast that is on premises.

 While updating my Upcoming Events Calendar yesterday I stumbled across something I wanted to share with my "outdoorsy" readers: The Georgia Trail Summit kicked off yesterday at The Georgia Museum of Art. There are keynote speakers today (Friday), followed by a conference discussing various trail topics like maintenance and promotion. The website says that the committees will also discuss the benefits and types of trails available to those of us who live in Georgia. On Saturday there are "mobile workshops" including hikes "Athens Music History" and "Cook's Trail, according to Cook." There are guided bike rides, paddling adventures, and a horseback ride at Sandy Creek Park. They hilariously say "bring your own horse."

 Other goings-on in Athens this weekend:

       - Ben Taylor, the son of folk rock artists James Taylor and Carly Simon, plays tonight at Melting Point. I love his music, but I'm helping my brother celebrate his birthday tonight. (ily Zach!) Doors open at 8pm, show 18+, Tickets $18/door.
       - Saturday is G-Day. The football game is at 1pm, there are lots of other UGA games. Admission is FREE (I'm pretty sure), but there will be a canned food drive going on benefiting the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia.
      - Saturday night is a Boybutante Ball at 40-Watt, the theme is "Drag to the Future." These shows are always a riot, and the funds raised go to members in our community with AIDS.

As always, feel free to contact me with upcoming events or new venues I should try :)
~Amanda Terranova

PS Check out "Klimbin" by Don Ross for a bubbly pick me up. I feel like this is the melody of my life these days :)


Useful Info:
Boutier Winery address: 4506 Hudson River Church Rd, Danielsville, GA 30633

Night and Day

 At the NPRDucati party on Saturday I met a man with whom I shared a friend. We were talking about the way we danced at shows with her. We involuntarily started dancing like her, and we danced wildly for a few moments... until a lovely awkward moment when a passerby caught us rocking to imaginary music. I love shit like that :)  Athens has so many people with whom I share a kindred spirit. I am excited to find others between here and the far coast.

 Last night I sound myself in downtown after the dinner rush and before the zombies arrive to party. It had rained all day and downtown was fresh and clean.  I could even smell the fresh air from the trees on Clayton. I will be sad to see them go. I needed to grab some food before heading back to campus to study. My go-to for healthy food on the go, Barbaritos was closed. Pita pit was closed... Downtown was mostly deserted, so I really couldnt blame them for closing early.  I had settled on eating another protein bar when I happened by NONA and saw a young man (dressed like he just got off work from said restaurant) smoking a cigarette and otherwise looking handsome. Knowing that cooks generally know how to eat, I asked him for direction to his healthy food choice. Patrick pointed me to Speakeasy one doorway down on Broad.

 Speakeasy is great for a date night or a small gathering of close friends. However, it gets really loud, so I prefer other restaurants for 4 or more people. The food encourages sharing, with mostly tapa style food. You would think that this wouldnt be enough food, but I've never left Speakeasy hungry. Try the coconut shrimp and the fried asparagus.... and the fondue. Oh the fondue, definitly the chocolate fondue. Last night I got the veggie plate to go. The collards and blackeyed peas were delicious. They even threw in some really good cornbread for me :)

 Tomorrow night (Wednesday at 7pm) is Rabbitbox, storytelling for adults. If you havent given it a chance, you should try it this month. I heard last month they had over 200 people show up to listen. This month's show is at Sandy Creek Nature Center. The theme of this one, "Out On A Limb" hints at some interesting stories already. I will see you there.

Lastly, this weekend Canopy Studio has a show. They teach "flying aireal dance trapeze" students :)  I'm really looking forward to it!

Talk to you soon
~Amanda Terranova

Useful info:
Address for Rabbitbox location this month: Sandy Creek
400 Bob Holeman Rd, Athens, GA 30607

Springtime in Athens

Pastures of Rose Creek 

  There is so much going on in Athens this Saturday--- luckily, the weather is supposed to be an idyllic 75 degrees and sunny :) Okay, so..... The farmer's markets are back!!!! Nowadays farmer's markets aren't just for veggies.  You can find local cheesemakers, soaps, baked goods, flowers... You can buy locally produced meat, I could go on and on. With so many options, farmer's markets are a  fantastic way to support your neighbors and your community. I personally like to pick up a loaf of bread from Cast Iron Bakery. Their bread is dense, and travels well in my motorcycle bag. So when I leave The Refuge in the morning, I wrap up a little cheese to eat with it (so I don't have to choose between starving and spending money on fried fast food). Also, my friend Will Powers usually has delicious grass fed beef (that I HIGHLY RECOMMEND) from his farm, Pastures of Rose Creek, at the Oconee market.  Athens Farmers Market at Bishop Park opens 8a-noon this Saturday (and next Wednesday at City Hall from 4p-7p). Oconee's Farmer's Market starts April 5th as well, with Saturday and Tuesday markets in downtown Watkinsville. There are several other local markets... in Washington, Bishop (the tiny town just south of Athens), I'm sure there are others, please let me know about them.

 Also spring related, Plantapalooza is this Saturday. Plantapalooza three location plant sale. They are located at the Trial Gardens at UGA, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and UGA's Horticulture club. According to the website you can collect discount stamps at each location to be used at local nurseries (for up to 15% off total). "What makes this event so special is the variety of traditional and unique plans that you would have difficulty finding anywhere else - plus access to horticulture professors, garden curators and master gardeners to answer questions and help with your selections." (quote from the Bot Garden site).  AND if you're really a garden nerd, the 17th annual Old-Timey Heirloom Seed Swap, in Crawford, GA, is Saturday, 1p-6p, at 10 Legacy Rd. I am putting it on my calendar for next year because I already have plans for this Saturday....

This Saturday afternoon I will be at NPRDucati's Monster 1200 unveil party (1p to 5p). I saw the new beauty at the shop yesterday (when I stopped by to fix my license plate- read about that mildly amusing debacle here). So come by, enjoy a beer (or other refreshment ;), and talk shop with me while ogling (oogling?) and drooling over the sexiness that is Ducati's new Monster. I am very excited to take it on a test drive. I will fill you in on my opinion after I get to ride her. 

Finally, holy pollen count Batman! I drove through a yellow haze on my way to work this morning. It's been a while since I've seen anything like that. Onto slightly less irritating things (pun intended), I've started honking and making obnoxious gestures at people I catch texting and driving. Its easiest on four lane highways, and hopefully no one will go road-rage on me. Mostly, people just put their phone down and try to not look embarrassed. I understand it is difficult not to text and drive (to be fair, I must admit guilt here as well). But I ask you to try-pretty please with a cherry on top- to put your phone down and watch the road. Because if you hit me on my bike (because you don't see me) the chances are fairly good that you will kill me.

 There's a lot of other things going on in Athens this weekend. As in tonight there is a benefit for MyAthens at The GA Theatre, followed by a show featuring The Whiskey Gentry, Radiolucent, and The Defibulators.

 You can view a Google Calendar I use to keep track of the events I want to attend, organized here: Upcoming Events Calendar.  As always, feel free to contact me with ideas for places for me to visit, suggestions... or help me by drawing my attention to typos ;)

~Amanda Terranova

Other useful info:
Seed Swap article 
Bishop Park Address: 705 Sunset Dr, Athens, GA 30606
NPRDucati Address:  4071 Mars Hill Rd, Bogart, GA 30622

my mild obsession with Catch-22 and WWP

It only took 10k miles!!! 

 Whelp, my license plate fell off today. The metal plate literally tore off the screws. I guess it got whacked with one too many gravel rocks. I'll try to snag a picture in the daylight hours and add it. I'm starting to see the benefits of riding with a friend...ly person ;) If I didn't have someone behind me, my plate would be on a lone backroad. (Thanks again Handsome!) It was beautiful riding weather, so a friend and I rode out through southern Oconee County, past the Iron Horse, visited Elder Mill Bridge, then back to Athens the long way. I'm so glad its spring!

 I was introduced to Catch-22 Gastropub last week. Then I ate there three days in a row. The weather was cold and nasty; And their tomato basil soup hits every perfect spot for that weather. A waitress suggested I try a little goat cheese on top and I'm looking forward to trying it. They had a huge selection of beer, with lots of seasonal rotations. I obviously recommend the soup and grilled cheese. But if you like spicy food- please get the Braised Beef Ramen Noodles and throw in all the hot sauce. (A challenge for you: I finished the whole bowl. All of it.)

 I get to announce that I will be raising funds for the Wounded Warrior Project on my ride to California. Both of my parents were in the military, and many of my friends currently serve or have served. I asked some of them to recommend charities to me, and of those WWP the one that I felt does the most good.  The Wounded Warrior Project helps veterans with visible, mental and emotional wounds. They equip veterans with tools needed to transition back to civilian life. The Project helps veterans with physical injuries resume active lifestyles. They grant financial assistance, and arrange job opportunities. I am really
looking forward to this partnership.

My niece came over and insisted
insisted on putting her boots
next to mine.

 I am starting to plan a kick off party for the fundraiser the night before we leave. A lot more details to follow.

~Amanda Terranova

PS Thank you to whomever left the radiant flowers on my front step. Why no note...?

More links:
Catch-22 Gastropub
Wounded Warrior Project

St Paul and the Broken Bones

My first thought when these guys took the stage: "Who are these nerds?" It didn't take me long to change my opinion.

Saint Paul can sing... taking a line from my favorite Wood Brothers song. THE MAN CAN SING A HOUSE ON FIRE. Rumor has it that Paul, in his fabulous white shoes, used to be a preacher. And I believe it. You can hear the gospel in his voice and feel the spirit in the music.

My one complaint is that no one was dancing. Do people not dance anymore? WTF Athens? St Paul and the Broken Bones rocked the Theater. Libby and I were dancing our asses off on the second level and I look down to a sea of zombies on the main level. It made me a little sad, not gonna lie.

Im so glad I took the effort to come out for this band. I missed them the last time they were in town. I wont make that mistake again.

~Amanda Terranova

PS Is there a band coming to town I need to see? Tell me in the comments section below. 

Festival and Fun Run

Slingshot Festival  returns to Athens this weekend. The second year of the festival brings us music, comedy, art, and even a hackathon. A wristband ($20/$25) will get you admission to nearly every music venue in Athens (Little Kings, New Earth, Max Canada, 40 Watt, Caledonia, Green Room, and on.. and on) During the festival, Cine and Morton Theater will have art and tech exhibits, and comedians. Also of note, Creature Comforts, the much anticipated downtown brewery, finally opened to the public with a Slingshot event last night. 

GA Botanical Gardens is hosting a 5k to raise funds for the Small Dreams Foundation. The program raises awareness and encourages people towards sustainability and be aware of global and environmental consequences of actions.  And since this aligns with my personal beliefs, I thought I'd throw it at you. 

 Lastly, I want to share a family event. Saturday morning the UGA Percussion Ensemble is hosting an event for kids age 4 to 12. Sponsored by the Performing Arts Center, the "Club Concert" is designed to teach kids about making music. I'm going to make, er... ask my sister to take her kids ;)

Though this is a very busy weekend for me, I will carve out some time to visit Morton for a few speakers, Hendershotts for Cicada Rhythm. I really wanted to congratulate Adam and Katie at Creature Comforts, but I will have to do that another time. I may try to get off work on Saturday to enjoy the sunshine and blooming gardens at GA Bot Garden or take my nieces and nephews to the club concert.

Oh! Before I forget! If you dont have plans tonight-- St. Paul and the Broken Bones is playing tonight at the Theatre and I HIGHLY recommend you make an effort to see them.  

Enjoy your weekend and let me know in the comments below of upcoming events!

~Amanda Terranova

More information: 

Slingshot Festival calendar of events

Creature Comforts Event

GA Botanical Garden Events 

About the Small Dreams Foundation

UGA Percussion Club Concert Event

If you use google calendars, add my Athens Culture Calendar! 

I love my shop

 I've been talking about this trip for a while (pretty much from the first time I straddled a motorcycle). Georgia to California. Now that I've started planning it, I am starting to appreciate the community at my shop, NPRDucati.

Home of the Duc guard Duck 

 After I returned from Charleston, I noticed my rear brakes needed some attention. I notified Paul that I was going to be bringing her in for some tender loving care. And she was pretty effing happy when I picked her up. I dodged work for an additional 45 minutes to take her for a ride. I don't know what magic the guys worked on her, but she positively sang along those Georgia back roads. It had to be Ducati voodoo, because a bike's performance shouldn't improve that much from a new rear tire and tightening the chain. (The throttle is SO sensitive now... Okay, I will stop with the motorcycle porn, before I pass the point of no return.)

My first bike at NPR Ducati

 Back to why I love my shop: they are helping me get together a list of required maintenance to keep me safe on the long, hard road across the country (and back). Before I leave, we plan on a new chain and a valve job, with tire and fluid checks. I'm certain I'll put at least 2k miles on her between now and then, so I'll probably get an oil change before I leave as well.

One of Paul's tips :)

 Last week, I spent several hours with Paul, just hanging out at the shop. Mostly asking questions about long distance traveling and getting some great advice on places to visit, staying safe, what I needed to pack... and a lot more. I really cannot express how valuable it is to be able to have them behind me.

 I cannot thank Paul, Vic, Dusty, and Daniel enough. Also a huge thanks to the rest of the NPRDucati community, without whom I would not know the euphoria and freedom of my baby multi. Plus, you guys are just cool. Only you can pull off a pet, guard DUCK at a DUC shop :)

 Please comment below if you have any suggestions for preparing my bike for this trip... or you want to share your love for NPRDuacti. ~Amanda