ALONG COMES MARY

It’s already the middle of August. The temperatures continue to rise here in SoCal but that isn’t stopping the parade of pumpkin spice and harvest decor coming in. This has been an exceptionally good summer of activities and enjoying precious days with my Mabel. We’ve had loads of beach time and random road trips. As we say goodbye to summer 2024, I’m thrilled for what’s to come as fall arrives. 

I decided to do a bit of a throwback to my older posts like this one and highlight some of the adventures that are coming up for me on behalf of articles. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to Santa’s Village, come along and join me. 

Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains 

My goal to get to all 50 states continues. Next week I’ll add Virginia to my growing checked-off list. I’m headed to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains with Roanoke as my final destination. There, I’ll be connecting with other travel writers and media professionals on behalf of MATPRA, the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance. 

MATPRA’s annual two-day conference will have workshops, networking, dine-around, and sightseeing. I adored what I got to see of Pennsylvania last year and am eager to see more of this part of the country. Several mid-Atlantic destinations will be at the conference and I hope to connect with them all to learn more and plan some future excursions. 

I’m excited to begin my journey to the Blue Ridge Mountains in Charlotte and road trip a bit into Virginia. Best part? I’m making a pit stop through Mount Airy. THE official “Mayberry” of them all as Andy Griffith himself was from Mount Airy and it was the inspiration for the TV series and town. Expect tons of social media posts from this pit stop. 

The Culinary Coast of Delaware

As luck would have it, MATPRA is my second trek to the Mid-Atlantic region this year. Just a few weeks following Virginia, I’ll head to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Another state that is a first for me. 

Rehoboth Beach is a part of the official Culinary Coast, a trademark to the state. I’ll get to experience their drive-on beach. Options include surf fishing and boogie boarding in between chatting with local chefs, strolling the beach, and sipping local brews. How cool is that? It’s no secret I love seafood so I can only imagine the treat I’m in store for while in Delaware. 

Along with a day at the coast, we’ll also tour the botanical gardens and even a meadery. Ever since I sampled mead in Greenville, I’ve been hooked. Not only am I eager to see a new state, but I didn’t realize how much I’d anticipate my first visit to Delaware. 

Eat Sushi in San Diego and get to Japan?

In between state hopping, I want to get back to San Diego. It’s such a great and quick getaway for us from Ventura County. Last time found me at La Jolla’s beautiful La Cormorant Boutique Hotel and it may just woo me back again soon. Especially for the food. 

You cannot beat the fresh fish and sushi in San Diego. Nearby Mikami Bar and Revolving Sushi is one of the restaurants to discover. Mikami has unveiled some Monday specials for August like a $25 all-you-can-eat sushi lunch from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm (Mondays only) and Meatless Monday specials. For the latter, this includes 15% off their vegetarian menu items. 

As I highlighted, Mikami can also be your ticket to Japan! The restaurant is currently holding a sweepstakes that will send one lucky winner on two round trips to Japan. How amazing is that? There are a few ways to enter so get all the info here. 

Glamping at Santa’s Village

SkyPark at Santa’s Village is nestled in the San Bernardino mountains. We were last there when Mabel was under a year old. Shortly after that visit, SkyPark opened SkyStream Resort at their on-site camping grounds. As someone who has never camped out, an airstream like this sounds ideal. We’ll get the best of both worlds with a communal bathroom and shower, fire and BBQ pits, and a cozy space. Decked out in Christmas, of course. 

Before we settle in for a night in the forest, we’ll get to explore the park. This trip will certainly be bittersweet as Mabel will be old enough for more activities than last time. She’s most excited about the Discovery Playscape and Northwoods Express. Other attractions for kids in mind include Santa’s Toy Test Track and Santa’s Mining Co. Outdoor lovers will bask at SkyPark with bike and hiking trails, ziplining, and fly fishing.

I hope you’ll follow along with me as I explore these new places. xo