u/shakethewaves

I'm traveling in on Monday the 25th for my mother's 70th birthday - she's in Hollywood in St. Mary's. We would have loved to take her out for brunch then, but unfortunately we will have to stay in the home. Since it's her birthday and a milestone one, and due to her having an exceptionally rough year, we wanted to bring in something special for her. Since there's travel involved, we would have loved to have cooked but can't.

I'm looking for somewhere to get carryout that's really wonderful, or catering for 6. We do have one vegan so we'll have to be mindful of that if possible. Seeking recommendations for anything in that area!!

A little background on me - I used to live in DC and I used to bike around quite casually for my anxiety. In 2020, however, I was hit by a drunk driver while on my bike. That accident messed up my body significantly (several breaks in one leg, hip issues, lots of things that ended up stemming from it) and then I was far too paranoid to get back on a bike again. My bike sat in my building’s garage until I moved at the beginning of the year, and I finally sold it.

I live in Montgomery County now, Silver Spring specifically. I have been absolutely dying to be back on a bike again, and this time less of a road bike and more for getting fresh air and good sights. I’m looking at getting a hybrid bike for taking on trails - but I’m REALLY scared. I got on a bike a few times after my accident once I was cleared to do so, but it was never the same. I found myself off-balanced and nervous, and one day I just stopped.

I’m looking for recommendations of areas that may have paved or moderately easy gravel roads, simple biking trails, and possibly not too many hills or too crowded. Any recommendations? And where do you all typically find information on biking trails? We frequently walk through Needwood but I know that isn’t bike friendly.

Additionally, would welcome a bike buddy! I love being outside and I love a good brewery trip, but I’m getting back in a shape still so you would need to be patient with me.