Dog friendly hikes and exploring, mostly around New England. Our Adventures includes: waterfalls, the beach, conservation land, lighthouses, state parks, the woods, the mountains, statues, and castles.
I hope everyone is doing well today! I wanted to update our friends, families and followers on Wilma. A while back I had posted that Wilma had torn her cruciate ligament. However, after consulting with an orthopedic specialist and surgeon we found it that it was just partially torn. I was thankful to hear that news and she has been on regular medication to ensure comfort, and a pain free experience. She also has some arthritis, which was diagnosed before that time.
In addition, Wilma has had an increase in her liver blood numbers. I also consulted a specialist with this information to ensure I do whatever is best for Wilma. There have been no clear answers for these numbers, but on a good note she has demonstrated no physical systems. As you may have expected some of these physical diagnoses have impacted our “normal” adventures, which is why you have seen a change in the blog. I am relieved that she is content, loves being in the backyard, resting, spending time with family, and playing with little brother Gus. I am in the process of planning some things later this month, but we are definitely on to more exploring then walking, or hiking. We are also looking forward to holiday photos! She is definitely in competition for one of the best posers! Look forward to sharing more adventures in the near future!
Today Gus and I Adventured to Benson Park in Hudson, New Hampshire while Wilma rested her leg. Benson Park is an approximately 266 acres, and includes: four miles of trails, dog parks, a playground, and remnants from an old animal farm/zoo. Dogs are welcome in the park – on leash (unless in the designated dog park area).
We had a gorgeous adventure to Benson Park this morning. I had been wanting to check out this somewhat local park for a bit, and today was the day. I felt sad leaving Wilma home, but I knew it was not best for her leg, and that she would enjoy lots of yard sunning upon our arrival home. Gus and I started our visit by exploring the leftovers of the past farm. I especially loved the red shoe, quite magical. The sun was spectacular highlighting the stunning fall colors. We weaved throughout the park exploring the trails. The trails were well marked, and there were maps of the park here and there which allowed me to double check our location.
Although Gus can be quite nervous at new locations, he did pretty well, appearing to enjoy this our walk. I had heard Benson Park is known for people following the dog rules, which sadly is unusual in New England. I did find this was the case, although a nice gentleman I spoke too on the trail indicated he often sees dogs off leash. We actually not see any dogs on the trails in the woods but noted many on leash in the more formal park area. I loved that there were a variety of terrains and things to see in this park, from the woods to a field, ponds, and ponds. So glad to check out a new park on this gorgeous fall day (Rating: 4).
This weekend Wilma, Gus, myself, and my parents Adventured to a lovely Airbnb in Wardsboro, Vermont, along the Wardsboro Brook. The home was very nice, unique, and it had a little fenced yard to relax and enjoy the Autumn colors, smells, and sounds. Although the Brook was not seen directly from the home, the sound of water sang lovely songs from afar. We enjoyed great company, homemade food, and relaxing in a perfect location. We even got to watch the Patriots game, another exciting win! It was a peaceful setting which was just right. So glad we could enjoy a weekend away! (This blog will not be rated).
Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I adventured to Vermont as we headed to our weekend away. Our locations included: Woodstock, Plymouth, and the Mountain Creamery. I also stopped at numerous places to snap photographs and take in the scenery. Wilma loved laying in the leaves and sun while Gus was the champ of the rolls on this day (haha). I was pleased to see there was plenty of fall foliage still close to peak and especially loved the colors reflected on the water. I was thrilled to find the Mountain Creamery with a window for ordering, just perfect for traveling with pups. I ordered a breakfast sandwich, maple milkshake, and two dog ice creams – I was very impressed with my goodies, and the pups devoured their ice cream. The weather was perfect Fall, and we could not have had a better day. So thankful for a lovely Autumn Day of Adventures (This blog will not be rated)
Yesterday Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Acadia National Park in Maine. Acadia National Park is a Park in Northeastern Maine that encompasses half of Mount Desert Island, and also is situated on the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut. It is 47,000 acres and popular for fall foliage seekers, winter skiing, spring fishing and hiking.
We had a stunning Adventure to Acadia National Park. After being stuck in traffic Friday night, overnight in Camden, and an extra morning departure we made it for sunrise! Acadia never disappoints, it’s absolutely gorgeous, and although I generally make a yearly trip, I am always awed with the beauty.
Yesterday started off near the Otter Cliffs where we traversed a small portion of the Ocean Path. The sunrise was a perfect. Our other stops throughout the day included: Hunter Beach, Jordan Pond, and Seawall Point. We also made stops throughout Southwest and Northeast Harbor, which I believe not every part is technically part of Acadia, but is Mount Desert Island. Wilma and Gus’ favorite definitely was Hunter Beach. Wilma led the way through the seaweed, enjoying the smells, sun, and even wading in the water. Gus enjoyed some digging and something he found on the beach that appeared to be a ball, but likely a piece of fruit. Throughout the day we appreciated the scenery, smells of Fall, and exploring. We stopped to enjoy the little moments, whether it be sitting in the grass, or standing on the rocks high above the sea. It was a lovely day in an amazing place (Rating: 5).
Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The White Mountains are a mountain range that cover a large part of New Hampshire, and also a portion of western Maine. The White Mountains include 48 peaks at over 4,000 feet. The White Mountains are popular for skiing, hiking, and ATVing.
We had a refreshing Adventure up to the White Mountains. After an extra early alarm – we headed off. It was the coolest day of the season, but perfect weather to be outdoors. The sun was shining, and some of the locations were close to peak foliage, just lovely! Due to Wilma’s knee and arthritis, we have had less adventures and have started more simple outings, that have become more exploring, and relaxing, with some short walks. I am lucky to have a fenced backyard that gives us other options for outside fun and am thankful that I can custom our adventures to work for all of our needs.
On this Adventure both Wilma and Gus enjoyed rolling, finding sticks, people watching, and walking through the Autum scenery. We spent most of our time at our favorite locations. Due to my day off from work we were able to appreciate less people (being a week- day), which was great. I loved searching for foliage and appreciated perfect sweatshirt weather. It is always fun to watch the pups enjoying the simple things in life – they really can teach us so many lessons! A lovely Adventure today in the White Mountains (this blog will not be rated).
Today, Wilma, Gus, and I spent the day in Maine. Our main adventures included the towns of: Cape Elizabeth, Augusta, Norway, Woodstock, and York. We began our day at one of my favorite parks, Fort Williams. This is a gorgeous coastal park, that includes: a lighthouse, gardens, ruins, a beach, and little trails throughout. We spent the majority of our day at this fabulous location. We arrived bright and early so had some peaceful moments before the crowd rolled in. Wilma and Gus loved lounging in the grass, digging in the sand and taking in the coastal Fall smells. Although there is an off-leash area, people actually follow the leash rule in the rest of the park, making it perfect for all. This park never disappoints!
We then headed over to Augusta to photograph and relax at the State House. This was our second visit to the State House. It is pristine, and surrounded by the brightest green, soft grass. I found a couple trees which were taking on the colors of Fall, just perfect! Wilma especially loved lounging in the grass, in the Fall sun. We walked around a bit and relaxed. As I am trying to balance what is best for Wilma I decided not to head to the park across the street, but just to let her lounge as she pleased. Gus did not mind joining in, such a lovely day to soak in the sun!
Our next stop brought us to the Norway/Paris Soft Serve, of which I also did a separate blog. I was pleased to find ice cream in September. Upon arrival we were the only ones there. I adored the window boxes as I ordered myself some pumpkin/pecan ice cream, and the pups a gourmet “pup cup”. Although Gus did not end up eating his ice cream, Wilma and I appreciated this treat, Wilma lucky to have seconds. Gus did eventually devour the treat that had been soaking on the “pup cup”. This was the perfect Fall snacks before heading on our journey.
From there we headed to check-out the largest phone in the world – an Atlas Obscura special (haha!) I have been curious about this phone for a bit, and today was the right day to add this to our Adventure. The phone commemorates the last “crank” call occurring in 1983. The sculpture was unveiled in 2008. I am not sure if Wilma and Gus were thrilled by this part of the adventure, but I was glad to add a random sculpture to the day.
Our last adventure was to York, Maine. We wandered around Old York, mostly to stretch our legs, but searched for flowers, signs of falls, and appreciated some of the historic buildings. I was disappointed not to find some of the pumpkins, and pumpkin sales I often locate in the area, but really it is early in the season. I think the spectacular weather made me forget it is just mid-September.
These were our main locations today, although there were also a couple other quick stops, but figured I would describe the highlights above. So glad to get out on a day trip on this gorgeous Fall weather. Hope the weather continues to be just right (This blog will not be rated.)
Yesterday we adventured to Norway Soft Serve in Paris, Maine, sometimes referred to as Paris Soft Serve. Norway Soft Serve has soft and hard ice cream options as well as other cold treats. They also have their own version of a “pup” cup for your furry besties.
We had a tasty adventure to Norway Soft Serve. I was thrilled to find an ice cream location to add to our day trip. We arrived at Norway Soft Serve to find ourselves the only guests. The business was in a brick building, one you might never guess served ice cream. I ordered a pumpkin pecan for myself and two pup cups. Although I did not see seating there may have been some around the side, however we decided to enjoy our goodies from the car. I did not love mine at first, but soon became a fan. My guess is that in more of a pumpkin girl then a pecan lady (haha)! Wilma inhaled hers, while for some reason skipped out. I tried several times but eventually Wilma got doubles, although I saved him the treat! Definitely one of our fancier “pup cup” experiences. So glad we could find a tasty bite on our daytrip! (This blog will not be rated).
Today Gus and I went kayaking at Ashland State Park, located in Ashland, Massachusetts. Ashland State Park is a 470 Acre Park with a 157 Acre Reservoir. The Park has a dam, a spillway, and several beaches for guests. The Park was initially created when the Reservoir was built in 1895. Ashland State Park has several fun facts, with a movie partly partially being filmed there in August 2014 (“Sea of Trees”), and even a helicopter crash in August 2016. Besides the formal entrance (only open to cars during official hours), there is a boat launch on Spring Street which we utilized today.
We had a peaceful kayaking adventure to Ashland State Park. We arrived at 5:30 to observe the sunrise and avoid the crowds. Upon arrival we were thrilled to find just one car and no one in sight. The reservoir was still, sprinkled with morning fog, and the birds greeted us as we paddled. It was mystical and magical, although hard to capture on camera. We were able to watch the sunrise and enjoy the serenity of an early morning paddle. I paddled around the reservoir, slowly as always appreciating the peace and beauty of the day. Along the route we found endless birds, saw some fish, and eventually spotted people and dogs from afar. There were several very small areas of lilies, some rocks, the bridge near the dam, and at least one island. We saw no other boaters during our time on the water. Thankfully we missed the crowd, although they were rolling in as we departed, creating a challenging exit. So thankful for a Fall-like day and an early morning paddle today (This blog will not be rated).
PS – Unfortunately my new waterproof camera case was quite loud as I took videos so feel free to mute the below videos!
So tonight, I thought it would be fun for Wilma and Gus to try a new food. For some reason Wilma is drawn to the kitchen when I am using the cutting board, so this is what created the idea. Likely because I had previously been cutting up some meat. Watching her hopeful eyes gave me the idea to look up red peppers (which I was chopping) and to my surprise they are dog friendly! I then cut off two pieces and the experiment began; it really does not take much for me to be entertained on a Friday night (haha)! If you have a guess let me know who you thought in the comments. You will see the answer at the very bottom.
The results are in…. It is…BOTH of them ate the pepper, although neither of them was it love at first sight (haha!) Gus was a little more adventurous than Wilma, which I did not expect. Were you able to guess it right?? 🙂
The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma 