Virginia and Maryland

November 2 - 7th

We were really surprised at how enjoyable the RV park was at Cherry Hill campground in Silver Springs, MD. At campground #22, we started to realize there are certain aspects of RV-ing that we liked and didn't like. A big downside of many RV campgrounds is location. Oftentimes they are built adjacent to interstates, railroad tracks, etc., inhibiting something as simple as going out for a long walk without driving somewhere. We've felt trapped at many of these RV parks - Cherry Hill was different. It was great having close access to walking paths and areas where Sandie could run and play off-leash.

Aside from the tour of the Capitol, we ventured into Virginia to see George Washington's home at Mt. Vernon. Visiting Mt. Vernon was definitely one of the highlights of our visit to D.C. Both boys have spent quite a bit of time learning about this time period and the Revolutionary War, making the visit even more impactful. We were able to take a tour of George Washington's home, and learned some very obscure but interesting facts about how it was constructed and the purpose of the farm. To say he was particular would be a gross understatement. His need for complete symmetry and balance could be seen all around the estate and landscaping. We all felt much closer to a special part of history having visited this place.

Later in our visit, we also made the journey down to Quantico in order to see the National Museum of the Marine Corps. I never had the opportunity to visit this museum, so it was a pilgrimage of sorts. We really enjoyed walking through the journey of a Marine Recruit or Officer Candidate through indoctrination. The exhibits showing the part played by USMC units in all the different conflicts over the years were simply amazing. Three hours was wholly insufficient - and we agreed another trip would be in order so that we could try out the rifle range simulation post-COVID!

Overall, we were really happy with out decision to visit Washington D.C. At first, we were apprehensive due to COVID - and we did end up opting out of quite a bit. All that means is that in the future, we'll need to plan for a 2nd trip so that we can visit the rest.

(When is Top Golf coming to Bend???)