Throwback Adventure- Groton Dog Park – Massachusetts

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

We have been to the Groton Dog Park numerous times with Shadow, Buster, Wilma, and My Mom. The Groton Dog Park is actually not a dog park, but is a popular spot for dog lovers located in Groton, Massachusetts. The trails parallel the Nashua River and also run throughout the woods. I am guessing this Park is part of the conservation land, but it is not clearly indicated.

The Groton Dog Park is an absolutely beautiful location full of dog fun, and the gorgeous outdoors. Dogs are able to run free, play, swim, and roll, as they please. We enjoy walking throughout the Park and sitting along the River’s edge, the boats peacefully gliding by. My memories of this park are special, full of relaxation, and fun times. Two of my favorite photographs of Shadow and Buster have come at this location, at least one compliments of my Mom (thanks Mom 🙂 ). Definitely a dog’s paradise. We used to frequent this location often, and likely will plan a visit in the future (Rating: 4).

January 6, 2019 – Fort Sewall – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to Fort Sewall in Marblehead, Massachusetts. Fort Sewall is located in Gale’s Head. It was first established in 1644 and utilized for defense in several different wars, being expanded throughout the years. The Fort was turned over to the town in 1922 and is now a public park.

We were lucky to have three little Adventures in Marblehead today. Fort Sewall was one of our stops. It was the second time we have been to Fort Sewall as we had been there two years ago with Shadow and my Mom. We were lucky to choose yet another sunny, and breezy winter day, clouds perfectly aligned in the bright blue sky. The sun was shining on the water, creating a marvelous view across the Harbor. This was a popular spot on this lovely, and unusually warm January day.

The Fort is located in the middle of a paved path that winds over and around the Fort, while displaying views of the Marblehead Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. You can even see the Marblehead Lighthouse, far across the waters. We walked above the Fort marveling at this magnificent seaside location. We took several detours to explore the areas along the rocks. There were many benches along the way to sit and relax.

After looping around we went down to the Fort to peak into the doors and windows. I was humored watching Shadow and Wilma as they seemed curious about what was behind the walls. We then sauntered through the grass taking some time for some dog rolls and stretching. A simple location but another quite picturesque spot in Marblehead. So glad we could enjoy some time at Fort Sewall today (Rating: 4).

I am continuing to have challenges downloading videos but if and when it appears I will add it to this post.

January 6, 2019 – Castle Rock – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to Castle Rock in Marblehead, Massachusetts. This Park is located on Marblehead Neck, and is less then 2 acres in size. The area was previously known as “Great Head”. It is popular for sailing, fishing, and scenic viewing.

We were lucky to have three little Adventures in Marblehead today. Castle Rock was one of our stops. It was the second time we have been to Castle Rock as we had been there two years ago with Shadow and my Mom. We were lucky to choose yet another sunny, and breezy winter day, clouds perfectly aligned in the bright blue sky. We were pleased to arrive at this little spot with very few other little visitors. We strolled along taking in the coastal smells, and spectacular scenic views. Wilma startled me a bit by jumping up on the rock fence, although I should know better to expect her jumps! She enjoyed walking along while Shadow and I followed below. We wandered over the the beach area checking out the tidal pools. The rocks we a bit sharp and uneven we we did not wander too far out. We walked around and headed past the large Rock enjoying a beautiful horizon view. We really could not have picked a better day for a coastal sky. A wonderful stop on our Marblehead Adventure (Rating: 4).

Today, January 6, 2019

I have not been able to download the video I was planning but will add it at a later date if it cooperates 🙂

February 2017

January 6, 2019 – Chandler Hovey Park/Marblehead Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to Chandler Hovey Park, also referred to as Lighthouse Point. This Park is known for being the location of the Marblehead Lighthouse. Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1896, and is a 105 foot cast iron skeletal tower. It is the only one of this type in New England. The Park is less then four acres total, cornered by gorgeous ocean views. It has benches, pavilions and numerous rocks for climbing.

We were lucky to have three little Adventures in Marblehead today. The Chandler Hovey Park was one of our stops. This was our second Adventure to the Chandler Hovey Park and Marblehead Lighthouse, as we had been there before with Shadow and my Mom. This is a small park that provides absolutely stunning views from Marblehead Neck. We were lucky to choose yet another sunny, and breezy winter day, clouds perfectly aligned in the bright blue sky. Both Shadow and Wilma were enthused at this location enjoying lots of grass rolls, and play. We walked around the park enjoying the picturesque sky, crashing waves, and rough rocks. We posed continually with the Marblehead Lighthouse, as you will see below! It was the prefect kind of day at this special location (Rating: 4).

Today, January 6, 2019

February 2017 (If I locate any additional photos I will post at a later date!)

Throwback Adventure – Wiley Pond area

The Wiley Pond area is located in the Crawford Notch portion of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This spot is right on the main drag and is associated with the Historic Wiley House which is famous due to the weather tragedy of 1826. The family residing in the home were killed by the avalanche when attempting to escape the powerful flood. The area later became popular for tourism as the home was one of few structures that survived this devastating storm. The location currently highlights Mount Wiley, and Wiley Pond. In addition there is a restaurant, gift shop, and trails in the area.

We have Adventured to the Wiley House Historic area on at least four occasions, visited with Shadow, Buster, Wilma, and my Mom. This location is one of the most gorgeous spots I have ever seen on our Adventures. The mountains come together framing the little Pond, and often times creating a beautiful reflection. There are ducks in the pond in many seasons, while the pond actually vanishes in the winter. We have enjoyed the trails in the back, but nothing compares to the pure beauty of the sitting area at the Pond. The Pond is also perfect for some dog dips and refreshing sips, a favorite perk of our Shadow.

As you can see below I was quite humored on one of our visits as it was Wilma’s 1st Birthday, a perfect excuse for a daytrip! Sooooo of course why not some birthday hat, mountain photos?! Too many photographs on that day, but Wilma was quite adorable in her hat, framed by the gorgeous snow covered mountains! On that same winter visit the area was quite vacant, providing some off-leash fun and exploring for our Shadow. Quite stunning to see this area through a winter lens.

I also have enjoyed taking a photograph of Shadow and Buster (with me), and later Shadow and Wilma at the same piece of driftwood. Several quick snapshots of absolutely cherished memories at this scenic destination. Although the photos do not give it justice, they attempt to provide a visual summary of why I adore the White Mountains. It really is one of the most beautiful places in New England (Rating: 5)

January 1, 2019 – Downtown Newburyport and the Clipper City Rail Trail – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Downtown Newburyport, and the adjacent Clipper City Rail Trail. Downtown Newburyport is a charming area with restaurants, boutiques, and a waterfront park. The Clipper City Rail Trail goes through this area, and also extends into neighboring towns. The Trail runs along the Merrimack River, and includes: lovely coastal views, sculptures, murals, boardwalks, and more. The Rail Trail is still being built, with one Phase remaining in construction.

We had a refreshing coastal Adventure to begin the New Year, spending about two and a half hours in Newburyport. The sun was shining, and the wind gusty, the perfect mix on this winter day. I had been to the area back in July 2011 with Shadow and Buster, on a much hotter day, but had not explored much of the Rail trail. We began our Adventure at the waterfront park, instantly feeling refreshed with the sun streaming down on the beautiful blue River. We started down one side of the trail until the trail ended in construction, where we quickly turned around. This location of the trail wove through areas of sculptures, along the water, past many boats, and near two shore-lighthouses. One lighthouse seeming to be decorative, while the other appearing to be a working lighthouse for the Coast Guard. There were several dogs, bikers, joggers, and walkers also enjoying this fun Trail.

After completing this portion of the Trail we wandered throughout the Downtown area, filled with shops and restaurants, many still decorated from the holidays. The streets were stone, the buildings brick, providing a unique and picturesque spot. We walked and walked enjoying to exercise, and cool breeze. We visited Frog Pond the center of “Bartlett Mall” before turning around weaving in and out of each street. Many others out shopping, feasting, and relaxing with family and friends.

Lastly, we headed over to the other end of the Clipper City Rail Trail. The Trail lead along the River, next to a restaurant, and then under several large bridges. The area had various sculptures and even a mural painted under the bridge. From there we crossed over to a sitting area with rounded benches before heading over a boardwalk to the section along a beach-like area. We strolled for awhile before turning around and heading back. Definitely a lovely day to be out enjoying this special Trail, a place I am sure we will return in the future (Rating: 4).

P.S. – Hoping video’s will agree to download in the near future, but now for a picture collage – please see below.

December 31, 2018 – Manchaug Falls – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Manchaug Falls in Sutton, Massachusetts. The Manchaug Falls is located in the village in Manchaug, part of the town of Sutton. It feeds the Mumford River.

So our Adventure today took a detour when we arrived at our planned destination to see signs of hunting in the area. I was extremely disappointed to find this, but felt it was best to not venture on the trails but to return in a safer season. Soooo I was pleased to find the Manchaug Falls not to far from our original destination.

We began our Adventure to the Manchaug Falls by parking near where I had read it was located. We soon were able to locate the Falls by following roaring sound of the water, guiding us to the Mumford River Trail. The Trail was a short with benches along the path, over the River. We strolled along enjoying the sounds of the rushing water, before arriving at the Falls. The Falls was wide in length, but short in height, flowing with steady, even water. The thunderous music was quite spectacular to our ears. Overall the area was brown and dull, but the Falls itself was quite lovely. A simple, but pleasant detour on our Adventure today (Rating: 3)

Throwback Adventure – Fort Crown Point – October 2015

In October 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to Crown Point Fort in Crown Point, New York. The Fort is part of Crown Point State Historic Park. The Fort was originally built by the French titled Fort St. Frederic, and was in the French and Indian War and Revolutionary War. The State of New York acquired the Fort in 1910, and it is now open for visitors. The Fort is located along Lake Champlain, near the Vermont border.

We had a historical Adventure to Fort Crown Point, on a breezy Fall day. I find one of the perfect types of Adventures to be one that you find, by accident, which is exactly how this visit occurred. I spotted this location by merely seeing it off the side of the road, so of course had to stop and explore this site. The Fort was absolutely beautiful, perfectly shaped ruins, with bright colored trees, and small paths atop the hills. Off to one side there was a view of Lake Champlain, framed by mountains in the distance, We strolled around, and spent some time relaxing and playing in the grass, climbing onto the ruins, and of course romping along the Lake shore. I remember the experience was absolutely spectacular. definitely carving a memorable Adventure in my heart (Rating: 5)

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

So today I would like to say Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays to all my followers, friends, and family! I am so lucky to have an amazing family to fill us with love and cheer during the holidays!! Christmas is a very special time for us to celebrate our wonderful family, relax, and make memories!

Over the years I have begun a tradition of taking holiday photographs of Shadow, Wilma, and Buster (who we miss dearly). I quickly have gathered some of these special photographs to put together a little collage. Some are fancy, and some are simple, yet all a happy collection of my loves.

We hope this collage will add a smile to your face as well…we are now off to plan our next Adventure!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

December 23, 2018 – Marginal Way – Maine

Yesterday we Adventured to Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine. This was at least our third trip to Marginal Way as we have also been there with Buster and my Mom. Marginal Way is a well known, coastal, cliff walk along the Atlantic Ocean. The path is approximately 1.25 miles in length, looping along the coast. It is lined with benches, lovely landscaping, and has beach areas along the way. It is dog friendly from October 1 – March 31.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Marginal Way. We picked an exceptionally breezy, and sun-filled winter day. We were pleased to find very few visitors, leaving us to especially enjoy the tranquility of this magnificent trail. The water was crashing along the rocks, creating a lovely song, and quite a picturesque scene. We walked along the trail, taking time to climb a bit on the rocks, and of course snap some photographs along the way. Unlike most of our previous visits the tide was in, leaving no sandy beach to play, or spots to sun bath in the warm sun. However, we did wander down to one of the beach areas, filled with perfectly rounded rocks. Fond memories of Buster and Shadow playing on the beach filled my heart as we enjoyed this spot. We did not stay long in this area, as the rocks were a bit unsteady.

We then headed up the stairs from the beach, continuing on the trail. Approximately halfway down the path we arrived at the little wreath adorned lighthouse adding quite the scenic touch on this coastal stroll. We of course took some photographs of this lighthouse, before returning to our walk. Although we often walked at a good pace, we did not miss a moment to enjoy the full sensory experience.

After finishing the trail, we wandered through the vacant, holiday adorned town, before heading over to Ogunquit Beach. We were disappointed to see that dogs were not allowed, so walked nearby viewing the vast blue colors of the sea. We soon headed back to the Marginal Way finding the “footpath”, an area of the path that is separate from the main trail. We then returned to the main sidewalk back to stroll along the cliff-lined trail. Although the brown Winter time of year, the beauty of the Ocean, rock covered cliffs, and symphony of the crashing shore makes this location a one of a kind experience. Definitely one of the best coastal strolls you will find in New England. I cannot even imagine how beautiful it must become in seasons of bloom. Below you will find a collage of our different visits, all together. If you are ever in the area do not miss this fabulous location (Rating: 5)