Author: adventuresofshadowandwilma

July 17, 2021 – Kayaking on the Nashua River – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I adventured on a kayaking trip to the Nashua River. We choose a boat launch on the Groton/Pepperell border, directly on route 119. The Nashua River is an almost 40 mile river that runs in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It is a drinking source, and a popular location for fishing and boating.

We had a nice Adventure to the Nashua River. Today was a fun day, we had a two hour family walk in the morning, and both Gus and Wilma had their own private adventures. I was excited to take Gus on his second kayaking trip (although I did not formally blog about the first one). Unlike our first kayaking trip Gus continually moved around, and I was quite surprised that we did not tip – yikes! I am guessing he was just trying to get comfortable, but also he is so cuddly he was often trying to climb on me. However once comfortable he was very relaxed, putting his head on my legs, or on the side of the kayak. He watched boaters passing by, and several dogs, completely relaxed at these sights. We did not see too much wildlife, but did spot two large herons. We took time to go under the bridge and paddle on the opposite side, which was more scenic. Besides the road traffic above the bridge it was a very serene. Luckily I was able to help Gus get comfortable, and we did not go for a swim -haha. This adventure reminded me that Wilma is probably too big for my kayaks, and likely would not appreciate riding in the boat. Therefore for now I will likely leave the boating adventures to Gus. Quite the exciting water adventure today (This blog will not be rated).

July 15, 2021 – Seashore Trolley Museum – Maine

Yesterday Gus and I Adventured to the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, Maine. The Seashore Trolley Museum is the first, and also the largest electric railway museum in the world. It provides guests information on the role that transportation has played throughout history. The campus includes three buildings of trolley cars and other artifacts, a vintage trolley ride, and a store. The entire museum is dog friendly.

We had a unique Adventure to the Seashore Trolley Museum. I decided to take Gus on his own Adventures yesterday, while Wilma was relaxing at Grandma and Grandpa’s spa! I feel this is important for him to increase his independence as he is much more comfortable when Wilma is by his side. I was not sure what to expect but was excited to visit the Museum. We started walking around the outside of the museum before going in to purchase a ticket. We walked to all of the carhouses to see what we could find. Gus loved eating grass and anything he could find. He continued to be nervous with others around him but did well sitting, and became more comfortable over time. I was not sure that we would be able to ride the trolley, but thought I would try, and get off before it left if he seemed uneasy. I decided to start with him on my lap, which he loved, and was perfectly comfortable throughout the ride. We learned about the history of transportation and enjoyed the cool breeze coming in the windows. Near the end Gus got down on the floor, and took some time to cuddle next to me on the seat. I have always wanted to check out this vintage trolley ride so was thrilled that it was a success. Definitely an unusual and fun dog-friendly activity. So glad we could visit the Seashore Trolley Museum (Rating: 3).

More lounging at Grandma and Grandpa’s Spa!

July 15, 2021 – Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – Maine

Yesterday Gus and I Adventured to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in Wells, Maine. The Refuge is located on the coast of Maine and has over 9,000 acres. It was established in 1966 in order to protect salt marshes and estuaries for migratory birds. The Refuge was named after Rachel Carson who was a famous marine biologist, author, and environmentalist.

We had a mosquito filled adventure to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. I decided to take Gus on his own Adventures yesterday, while Wilma was relaxing at Grandma and Grandpa’s spa! I feel this is important for him to increase his independence as he is much more comfortable when Wilma is by his side. Today we traversed the Carson trail, an only one mile loop, however the only dog friendly trail in the Refuge. The trail was well groomed, curved through the pines and had numerous look out areas along the marshes. It was a little dark out but there was lots of green on the path, we found mushrooms, and of course enjoyed checking out the water views. Gus was very nervous with all people, often trying to run from them, poor guy. I worked on building his confidence and getting him more comfortable, and besides a couple nervous moments he loved walking and exploring. My plan was to walk the loop several times but the mosquitos were brutal. I guess I should have worn bug spray, however I survived! Glad to finally check out the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuse (Rating: 3)

Comfy Naps at Grandma and Grandpa’s Spa!

Throwback Adventure

I have decided to make some changes to my Throwback section. This is partly because I have had the blog for about three years and each week I have posted an Adventure from before I started the blog. This has become more challenging between finding old photographs, and identifying the location. Although I will still be adding some here and and there I thought I would also use the Throwback Adventure to share past Adventures I have posted. I have new followers, and of course not every follower has been able to view all blogs. This Throwback blog will also allow me an opportunity to share special memories of my boys, Shadow and Buster who have passed. They began my life of wonderful adventures with my rescues, and will be furever in our hearts!

Today’s Throwback Adventure is from Cliff Walk, an Adventure I took with Shadow and Buster about six years ago. I remember really enjoying Cliff Walk. We walked, and walked, found lovely architecture along the trail, and beautiful ocean views. I have special memories of this trip with my two boys and will remember it forever. Please see two photo highlights below, and the entire original blog at: Cliff Walk.

July 14, 2021 – New London, Connecticut

Today Wilma, Gus, My Mom and I Adventured to New London, Connecticut, visiting various sites. New London, Connecticut is a seaport city located on the Thames River. It is known for its history as a whaling town and the current music and art scene.

We had a fabulous Adventure to New London, Connecticut. I was thrilled for our first day trip with Gus, and his first Adventure to Connecticut!! We visited sites we have seen before and also some new locations. Our stops included: Fort Trumbull State Park, Rita’s, the Mural Walk, The Hempsted Homes, the sculpture trail at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, and the Connecticut College Arboretum. It was a surprisingly humid day but besides that it was just right. I enjoyed watching my new pair enjoy each others’ company, and of course we were quite happy to have my Mom join us! Both Wilma and Gus enjoyed some happy rolls, and exploring new smells. I ordered Wilma some Rita’s ice cream, but decided to wait on Gus savoring this treat due to his puppy stomach. My Mom and I both devoured a gelato, just so refreshing. I was quite entertained in attempting to get Gus to pose, but got a couple good ones here and there. I have been to New London numerous times before, and love the variety and options available. Such a wonderful day in New London today (this blog will not be rated).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you follow my blog regularly please skip down to the last paragraph…

The Weekly Video/Photo section highlights an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments. If you have followed my blog from the beginning you know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy.  We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven.  It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year after his passing we welcomed little Wilma into our world.  We were devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020.  These two precious boys boys will be furever in our hearts! We were recently thrilled to add another amazing rescue, Gus, to our home on June 28, 2021! This Weekly Video/Photo section will allow me to share photos from all four of my rescues, whether it be a precious memory, or a current moment.

Today I thought it was the perfect time to share a photo of Shadow and Buster when Buster was still a puppy. It really captures the special bond these two had often cuddly and close to each other. Although older photos are not always the quality of newer ones, they still capture the moment. Here are my boys…I will miss them forever!

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

Wilma and I are thrilled to announce our new Adventurer in training, Mighty Gus. Gus arrived into our arms two weeks ago through Paws and Claws Rescue. My Mom and I picked him up at a local quarantine center after he arrived in Massachusetts. I will never forget the moment I first saw him as he trotted down the hall, appearing quite scared, before falling into my arms. It was as if he knew he had found his furever home. It was a precious moment that I will never forget. Gus is the sweetest boy, charming, and adorable. He loves chasing frogs, pouncing on ants, running around the yard, and walking with big sister Wilma. Gus has mastered the relaxation of kayaking, and has the most adorable snore. He loves cuddling, and melts all hearts. Gus is unusually calm for a puppy, already having social skills beyond his years, just some of the things that have made him the right sibling for Wilma. I have been introducing them slowly, and will continue to do so, but there is no doubt that this is a perfect match. They have tried playing a bit but are still trying to figure it all out. I look forward to every new moment they have together!

We are so thankful for Paws and Claws Rescue as well as his amazing foster parents Deb and Al, who loved him unconditionally and gave him a wonderful transition before arriving at my home. We are beyond grateful! Here are some photos and videos from the first two weeks as we welcome, Gus!

The day Gus came home – Grandma hugs❤️


Gus discovers a ball…

Wilma and Gus on a walk

Naptime after a long walk

Gus’ first kayak ride

Gus find a toad

Wilma and Gus out exploring on a walk

June 26, 2021 – Friendly’s – Massachusetts

Yesterday Wilma, My Aunt, and Uncle Adventured to Friendly’s in Florence, Massachusetts. Friendly’s was originated in 1935 and specializes in ice cream products and supermelts. It was founded in Massachusetts but can be found throughout the East Coast.

We had a delicious Adventure to Friendly’s. Along our walk we had several conversations about ice cream, adding to the anticipation. There was an outdoor window at this particular Friendly’s location. Wilma appeared eager for her treat, but also appreciated a quick nap while waiting. I ordered a root beer float and Wilma a Pup Cup. We were quite spoiled to be treated by my aunt and uncle. After ordering we took our ice cream back to their home to enjoy. The root beer float was quite refreshing and absolutely tasty! Wilma quickly devoured her Pup Cup, a generous serving topped with treats. Such the perfect way to end our walk on a warm day (This blog will not be rated).

June 26, 2021 – Massachusetts Central Rail Trail/Northampton Bikeway – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to the Massachusetts Central Trail Trail in Florence, Massachusetts. The Massachusetts Central Rail Trail is a partially completed rail trail that runs from Northampton to Boston. It was a little confusing researching this Trail but it appears that the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail has numerous other titles based on which area and/or town you are traversing. The Massachusetts Central Rail Trail currently consists of 51 “open” miles and is growing as trails are being added but the plan is complete it throughout the original 104 mile railroad line.

We had a family-filled Adventure on the Central Rail Trail, also appearing to be the Northampton Bikeway. We were thrilled to spend the day with family, including my aunt and uncle who were on this Adventure. The portion of the trail we walked along had artwork on the path and mostly weaved through the woods, adding well needed shade on this warm day. There were signs on the path that gave a estimated time in minutes to various locations. During this Adventure we also walked on the loop around Look Park (however I decided to blog about Look Park today). It was so wonderful to have the company of my aunt and uncle, two very special people in my life. We walked, talked and enjoyed our time. There were dog walkers, bikers, and walkers, many quite friendly as they passed us by. We located a map of the Rail Trails, which I look forward to studying for a future Adventure. So glad we could enjoy this new Trail with fabulous company (This blog will not be rated).