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During our exciting Maryland adventure, we set our sights on Washington DC and Baltimore for the Preakness. After three years of traveling, we had gathered a mix of opinions about these vibrant cities. Some rave about the charm of DC, while others voice safety concerns. And Baltimore? Despite its tough reputation in the news, I’ve been intrigued ever since I saw the musical Hairspray.
So, come along on our “Triple Crown Tour” as we explore the sights and share our experiences in both Washington DC and Baltimore!
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Woodbine, MD, Rambling Pines Campground is a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Our hiking adventure took us to Piney Run Park, where we discovered breathtaking trails and an interpretive center showcasing an owl and a hawk. With tennis courts and even a gaga pit, there was plenty to explore.
Finally, we found our way to the White House, where we were intrigued to see security guards on the roof.
With sore feet but full hearts, we returned to the car, wrapping up an unforgettable day in Washington DC.
The drive from Woodbine to Baltimore was smooth and scenic—no freeway needed! While the Derby was an unforgettable experience, Preakness felt more like my speed.
We had hoped to see a Triple Crown contender, but even without one, Preakness offered its own unique charm. Dating back to 1873, it’s steeped in tradition, with the Black-Eyed Susan as its signature flower.
Though Preakness was our only stop in Baltimore, we felt safe throughout our time there.
So, come along on our “Triple Crown Tour” as we explore the sights and share our experiences in both Washington DC and Baltimore!
Base Camp: Rambling Pines
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Woodbine, MD, Rambling Pines Campground is a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Just an hour from both DC and Baltimore, this campground caters to everyone—from pickleball courts to a peaceful fishing pond, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
While some full-timers call this campground home, it remains well-maintained and welcoming.
Piney Run Park
Our hiking adventure took us to Piney Run Park, where we discovered breathtaking trails and an interpretive center showcasing an owl and a hawk. With tennis courts and even a gaga pit, there was plenty to explore.
Plus, military members and veterans enjoy free entry, making it even more enjoyable.
With only one day to explore DC, we were on a mission—and we succeeded! We logged eight miles on foot, soaking in as much as we could. The city surprised us with its cleanliness, manageable traffic (if you know where to park), and an overall sense of safety.
Washington DC
With only one day to explore DC, we were on a mission—and we succeeded! We logged eight miles on foot, soaking in as much as we could. The city surprised us with its cleanliness, manageable traffic (if you know where to park), and an overall sense of safety.
My daughter even declared it her favorite city!
Our day kicked off at Arlington National Cemetery, where we witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Our day kicked off at Arlington National Cemetery, where we witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
This powerful ceremony honors unidentified American service members who gave their lives in war, leaving us in awe.
Next, we drove into the heart of DC and parked (with a heads-up about vehicle security checks). Our first stop was the Capitol Building, where we treated ourselves to ice cream and snapped a classic photo in front of the monument.
We strolled past the impressive Smithsonian buildings—though we didn’t have time to explore them, I’ve heard it could take a week to see everything!
At the Capitol, my son mistakenly thought we were at the White House, which added a humorous twist to our day.
Then we made our way to the Library of Congress, a significant stop for my daughter, who has done community service transcribing documents for them.
We couldn’t miss the Supreme Court, pausing for a moment outside this highest court in the land.
Next, we drove into the heart of DC and parked (with a heads-up about vehicle security checks). Our first stop was the Capitol Building, where we treated ourselves to ice cream and snapped a classic photo in front of the monument.
We strolled past the impressive Smithsonian buildings—though we didn’t have time to explore them, I’ve heard it could take a week to see everything!
At the Capitol, my son mistakenly thought we were at the White House, which added a humorous twist to our day.
Then we made our way to the Library of Congress, a significant stop for my daughter, who has done community service transcribing documents for them.
We couldn’t miss the Supreme Court, pausing for a moment outside this highest court in the land.
My daughter, who dreams of joining the FBI to combat human trafficking, reluctantly posed in front of the J. Edgar Hoover FBI building for a quick snapshot.
Finally, we found our way to the White House, where we were intrigued to see security guards on the roof.
With sore feet but full hearts, we returned to the car, wrapping up an unforgettable day in Washington DC.
Preakness
The drive from Woodbine to Baltimore was smooth and scenic—no freeway needed! While the Derby was an unforgettable experience, Preakness felt more like my speed.
It was less crowded, easier to navigate, and I loved having indoor seating to stay dry from the rain.
We had hoped to see a Triple Crown contender, but even without one, Preakness offered its own unique charm. Dating back to 1873, it’s steeped in tradition, with the Black-Eyed Susan as its signature flower.
Pimlico Race Course, the venue for the race, is the second oldest racetrack in America, rich with history.
The atmosphere was more relaxed than the Derby, with attendees dressed up but not quite as extravagantly. Even with the rain and the walk to get in, sensible shoes made for a comfortable day.
The atmosphere was more relaxed than the Derby, with attendees dressed up but not quite as extravagantly. Even with the rain and the walk to get in, sensible shoes made for a comfortable day.
Food and drinks were easy to find, and securing parking in advance was essential to avoid any last-minute stress.
Though Preakness was our only stop in Baltimore, we felt safe throughout our time there.
It was a day well-spent, soaking in a piece of horse racing history in a laid-back setting.
Overall Experience
One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned on this journey is to filter out the fear-mongering news and take people’s opinions with a grain of salt.
One of the most valuable lessons we’ve learned on this journey is to filter out the fear-mongering news and take people’s opinions with a grain of salt.
If we had let the horror stories shape our perceptions, we would have missed out on incredible experiences that truly enriched our lives.
As Christians, we’re called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). This adventure has been a powerful reminder to trust in God’s plan and embrace new opportunities.
As Christians, we’re called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). This adventure has been a powerful reminder to trust in God’s plan and embrace new opportunities.
He often has wonderful surprises waiting for those who are willing to step out in faith.
Sure, politics can be frustrating—there’s no denying that. It can be disheartening to see that Washington DC, is better maintained than many other big cities just because the president resides there. And witnessing the division in our country driven by power-hungry politicians? That’s sad, too.
But here’s the thing: my hope isn’t anchored in politics or government.
Sure, politics can be frustrating—there’s no denying that. It can be disheartening to see that Washington DC, is better maintained than many other big cities just because the president resides there. And witnessing the division in our country driven by power-hungry politicians? That’s sad, too.
But here’s the thing: my hope isn’t anchored in politics or government.
Yes, God can use them for His will, but my true allegiance lies with Jesus—my King. In the grand scheme of things, it’s this hope in God that sustains and inspires me, guiding my perspective amidst the chaos and uncertainty.
Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.
In a world filled with political and economic uncertainty, this verse serves as a powerful reminder to shift our focus from fleeting human leaders to our All-Knowing, All-Powerful, Unchanging, Trustworthy, and Loving God.
Psalm 146:3-4 (NIV)
Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Reflection
In a world filled with political and economic uncertainty, this verse serves as a powerful reminder to shift our focus from fleeting human leaders to our All-Knowing, All-Powerful, Unchanging, Trustworthy, and Loving God.
Instead of succumbing to disappointment or instability, we can find encouragement and hope in our faith.
1. What does it look like to prioritize God's Kingdom over earthly systems of power?
Thought-Provoking Questions
1. What does it look like to prioritize God's Kingdom over earthly systems of power?
2. How might our loyalty to political parties hinder our ability to love others as Christ calls us to?
People are so curious as to what we are, being a military family from CA and all. My answer:
We are children of God and our citizenship is in heaven, and we are eagerly awaiting the return of our Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ (Phil 3:20).
"Your political party is not your ultimate allegiance; your ultimate allegiance is to God."- Tony Evans
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being our anchor in times of uncertainty. Help us to trust in Your wisdom rather than the shifting sands of human politics. Open our hearts to seek Your guidance in every decision, including our voting choices. May we always align ourselves with Your will, embracing the opportunities to reflect Your love and truth in the world around us.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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