July 22, 2020 – Grey Rocks Conservation Area – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Grey Rocks Conservation Area in Hebron, New Hampshire. The Grey Rocks Conservation Area is a small property with just 1.5 miles of trails. It is located along the Cockermouth River which feeds into Newfound Lake. The Grey Rocks Conservation Area is popular for: walking, picnicking, fishing, and paddling. They also offer Eco-Tours, however they are currently on hold due to COVID.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Grey Rocks Conservation Area on an overcast morning. I was eager to finally Adventure to Grey Rocks Conservation Area as it was a property that had caught my eye awhile back. We arrived to find only one other car in the parking lot. We first began on the Sandy Point Trail, then headed to the Floodplain loop trail, before returning to the Sandy Point Trail, The trails led through the woods and along the River. There were several boardwalks, platforms for viewing, and benches along the way. We noticed some kayakers from afar, and appreciated the singing birds. On occasion we heard some traffic in the distance but overall it was quite serene. The trails were buggy, but somewhat to be expected in a River setting. Wilma seemed a little unsure when we first arrived, but soon became more confident and started appreciating the sights and smells. We made sure to traverse all trails and viewing locations before then heading to the River Walk Trail.

I was briefly baffled as to where to locate the River Walk Trail, but found a large map-kiosk which indicated to walk along the road before the trail began into the woods. The River Walk Trail was much less interesting. The trail was slightly overgrown and the mosquitoes were intense. However we continued on find a look-out area, and also a viewing platform. Although we really would have not missed a thing by skipping this trail, I wanted to make sure we did not miss a thing!!

We really enjoyed visiting Grey Rocks Conservation Area. It was a quiet location, with a unique setting along the River. Throughout the trails there were informational kiosks, and even a children’s story. The trails were very short, but well labeled. Although we do not stop moving often (haha) I loved that there were benches for viewing, and relaxing. It was clear that alot of thought went into the small details of this Conservation Area. I can just imagine that Grey Rocks Conservation Area would be a spectacular place to kayak! I am glad we Adventured to Grey Rocks Conservation Area today (Rating: 3).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

I have decided to return to the “normal” Weekly Video/Photo section of my blog. As you likely know we lost Shadow about two months ago and I have been focusing this section on Shadow. However, I have peace knowing I will continue to highlight favorite photographs including Shadow and Buster. The plan will still be to still display a video or photo, usually highlighting 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 will 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 later we welcomed little Wilma into our world. We were recently devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020. It is so painful to know Shadow and Buster are both gone, but they will be in our hearts forever!

My feature today is a simple video from Great Brook State Park on a perfect Fall day. I love this video as it is the perfect summary of a happy dog moment – Shadow rolling and Wilma enjoying a stick. And although it is far from a professional video, it made me smile so I decided to share this as our Video/Photo of the week. Hope it might make you smile too!

PS – Do not let my amateur skills make you dizzy as you watch this (haha).

July 18, 2020 – Wright’s Tavern – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Wright’s Tavern in Concord, Massachusetts. Wright’s Tavern is a historic tavern that had significance in the American Revolution. Unlike most other historic landmarks in Concord, there are no tours, or museums, however Wright’s Tavern continues to be memorialized as a National Historic Landmark.

We had a historic Adventure to Wright’s Tavern. Due to another hot day we decided to again just take a local walk, relax in the backyard, and visit a nearby community landmark. We arrived at the Tavern and found parking at the neighboring church. We sauntered over to Wright’s Tavern to take photographs and check out this Historic Landmark. The building was in perfect condition, and immaculate in structure. We viewed Wright’s Tavern from each angle. There was really not much to see, except a nice looking building, with great history. Although the Adventure was quite uneventful, still glad to see another historic landmark in Concord. (Rating: This Adventure will not be rated).

Throwback Adventure -Wompatuck State Park – Massachusetts

I have decided to return to posting new “Throwback Adventures” after taking time to re-post some of my favorites with Shadow. This has been a therapeutic process for me to share. We are devastated that both Shadow and Buster have both passed, but find peace knowing we can continue to remember them through our “Throwback Adventures”. They were amazing boys and are forever in our hearts.

In April 2018 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Wompatuck State Park in Hingham, Massachusetts. Wompatuck State Park is a 3500 acre Park that is popular for camping, biking, snowmobiling, boating, and hiking. It includes 40 miles of forest trails that run by streams, ponds and a reservoir.

We had a fun Adventure to Wompatuck State Park. We had a full day of Adventures, and this was one of the many we enjoyed. We especially appreciated the boardwalk trails through the woods, and the water perfect for a swim. Wilma found some tasty sticks, while Shadow was often looking for the next water entrance. Wilma tried hard to keep up with Shadow on her hike, her best bud. I am not sure which body of water we found, but there are many in the Park. It was bright blue and quite scenic, especially next to the dry, brown spring grass. We will definitely have to visit Wompatuck State Park again in the future, a wonderful Park to explore (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 15, 2020 – Old Scituate Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Scituate Lighthouse in Scituate, Massachusetts. This was my third visit to the Scituate Lighthouse. The Scituate Lighthouse is also referred to as Old Scituate Lighthouse. It is a historic lighthouse which was built in 1811, later being purchased by the town of Scituate. It is located at Cedar Point in Scituate Harbor, and as expected is a popular location for painters.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Scituate Lighthouse. Although I have been here twice before I apparently had forgotten the beauty. We arrived to find the sky blue, with fluffy white clouds. We circled the Lighthouse and then decided to hop down the long breakwater. The breeze was perfect, the large boulders colorful. The water was crashing into the breakwater, adding lovely drama. As we hopped I continually peaked back to check out the different views. The breakwater was not difficult to traverse, but yet the rocks did require careful calculation, especially with an energetic Wilma leading the way. We went to the very end of the breakwater, and appreciated the spectacular scene. We relaxed for a bit enjoying the breeze before turning back.

After we visited the beach, lots of rocks, and new angles of the lighthouse. Wilma was interested in the water, although still had jumpy movements with the waves. She explored the shore, and often looked around as though she was appreciating the views. We then decided to check out the smaller breakwater, another fun part of Adventure.

Lastly we made sure to explore the beach on the opposite side. It was a little more challenging arriving at this beach, with lots of uneven rocks. The rocks were round, and colorful, many my favorite color – purple! It was a little challenging walking along the shore due to the numerous rocks creating an unsteady gait. However we could not miss a part of the shore. From there we headed for one last view of the Lighthouse before heading out. The area was a bit more crowded then I preferred, but to be expected. Definitely one of the most beautiful Lighthouses in New England (Rating: 5).

November 2017

July 2016

July 15, 2020 – Deer Island – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Deer Island in Boston, Massachusetts. Deer Island is a Peninsula in Boston that is part of the Boston Harbor Islands. You can drive to the Island after crossing the town of Winthrop. The Island has a long history, including: serving as a prison camp for Native Americans during King Philip’s War, and a home to immigrants and refuges during the Irish Potato famine. The Island has five miles of trails including an almost three mile loop. It currently is the location for the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, which both treats and recycles waste. The Island is popular for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing.

We had a misty Adventure to Deer Island. We arrived at about 8am and I was quite thrilled to find a parking spot as the Island reviews indicated they are often limited. We began our walk around the main loop an almost three mile paved path. It was sprinkling, and somewhat misty as we began. I was surprised to find myself quite impressed with the beauty of the “trail”. There were many colorful wildflowers, and the waves were quite grand, loud and raging. Wilma often preferred to walk along the stone/cement wall, my rock loving girl. There were parts of the path where the waves actually crashed so high they spurted water over us and the path. I found this little natural feature so fun, although Wilma was not a huge fan of these unexpected showers.

I would guess we were about halfway around the Island when we found a little beach, centered by a breakwater, featuring purple tinted rocks. We normally would have wandered down the breakwater but there was a fisherman at the end so we decided to give him his space and explore the beach. I was disappointed to find a lot of litter on the shore, but sadly to be expected on a city beach. However we did our best to ignore this and appreciate the sand, shells, seaweed, lobster traps, and the water. Wilma loved sniffing around, and digging and running chaotically. She sometimes waded into the water, but dramatically bounded back when any type of wave appeared. A fun little diversion from the “trail”.

We then continued on the path along Boston Harbor. We soon found a spectacular view of Boston, so impressive. As we walked further the sky began to slightly clear, with dashes of blue between the clouds. I could not get enough of this view, and guess it must be one of the best skyline view of Boston. I took numerous photos of this scene, and dreamed about the zoom lens I wish I owned. Definitely one of my favorite parts of this walk as I love seeing the Boston skyline.

Throughout our walk the “trail” varied from a small path to opening up, to providing opportunities to walk on the rocks, to scenic vistas – paths off the trail. There were benches along the way to sit, relax, and enjoy the ocean views. An interesting aspect to Deer Island was the Treatment Plant which added various structures parallel to the “trail”. There was only one small part of the path where I noticed an odor, but thankfully that was a short part of our journey. We were able to view kiosks throughout to learn more about the location and history. Near the end of our walk we found several memorials, including the Irish Memorial, and the Judge A. David Mazzone Memorial.

I was very happy to be surprisingly impressed with Deer Island. The large waves made my mind think of movies where there is an ocean storm – just something I cannot describe in words but the sounds and the scene were majestic. The colorful wildflowers, combined with the unique structures of the Plant made for a distinctive experience. I loved the path too, quite pristine and quiet, I guess a perk of minimal parking. Although several things made me debate the rating I overall was very pleased with Deer Island, and look forward to returning in the future (Rating: 4).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

My feature today is a photograph of Wilma and I at Fort Trumbull State Park in Connecticut this past May. I did not blog about this Adventure as I had blogged about it within the year. I find this photograph adorable, chaotic, and funny as it looks like I am squishing Wilma. I promise no one was injured in the making of this selfie (haha)! Fort Trumbull State Park is beautiful Fort, and one I highly recommend. I am lucky to have visited with both Shadow and Wilma last summer. You can search more about this fantastic location by typing it in the search box, or finding it in the Connecticut and History and Forts sections of the Menu. Here is me and my Partner in Crime – Ms. Wilma Mae.

Fort trumbell selfie with Wilma

July 13, 2020 -Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe in Waltham, Massachusetts. Pizzi Farm was founded in 1933 by the Pizzi family and continues to be run by the family. As expected they are known for their: ice cream, and deli, and also have catering, and sell additional products including: pumpkins, candy and flowers.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe. I have been feeling a bit cranky with the heat so we have mostly been doing shorter local walks and spending time in our shady backyard. Therefore I thought today was the perfect time to visit Pizzi Farm for some ice cream. Upon arrival I noticed many areas for seating, and lovely flower barrels for decoration. There was no one else in the line so we were able to order immediately. It was fun to find they had several options for dogs including a little ice cream cake, ice cream treats, and also offered soft serve. I choose the ice cream treats for Wilma and decided to order a root beer float for myself. We found a quiet spot to sit and the shade and enjoy. Wilma apparently thought I should hold her “Fro Bone”, adorably licking it – so spoiled. However, I gave it to her so I could savor my yummy root beer float. It was just perfect! We relaxed for a bit before heading home. So glad we could Adventure to the Pizza Farm Market, Deli, and Ice Cream Shoppe today (Rating: How could you go wrong with a “Fro Bone” – delicious!)

July 10, 2020 – Pepperell Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Pepperell Covered Bridge in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Pepperell Covered Bridge traverses the Nashua River. It was originally built in 1818 but has been rebuilt three times, most recently in 2010. The Bridge has access for vehicles, and pedestrians.

We had a local Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge. I had been there once before with Shadow and Buster but do not believe I took any photographs. We found the small parking area indicated for the Nashua River Access Area, and parked near the bridge. There was a small walkway with some information kiosks and memorials. We visited these features before trotting over to the bridge. The bridge was somewhat dull in color, as was the hazy sky. I posed Wilma, who smiled grandly before heading over the pedestrian walkway. Wilma was obsessed with looking out the bridge, down the stream, very focused and curious. I am guessing she was able to see, or smell the nearby farm animals. We walked through the bridge and to the other side. There was a loose dog running around so we just snapped one quick photograph before heading back.

After exploring the Pepperell Covered Bridge from above we headed over to a short and steep trail down to the side of the Bridge to see the side. Seeing the simple front, I was surprised to find a more scenic bridge, with lattice-like style. Wilma enjoyed a couple sips from the water before we headed back to the car. I was quite disappointed to see a great amount of glass on this path, but was grateful that we did not have any incidents.

So glad we could Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge today (Rating: 3.5).

July 9, 2020 – Halibut Point State Park – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Massachusetts. Halibut Point State Park parallels Halibut Point Reservation. Halibut Point is a granite quarry that was quarried as early as 1840. The Park is also located on the ocean. It includes: trails, scenic views, and areas for picnicking. There is also a visitor center and lighthouse appearing tower on the grounds. Halibut Point State Park is managed jointly by the Trustees of Reservations and The Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We had a steamy Adventure to Halibut Point State Park. We have been to Halibut Point State Park on numerous occasions, but were still excited to return. Since I had not blogged about it in about a year and a half I thought I would share some new photographs, and old photographs from this special location. We arrived at the Park, and followed the scenic little trail to the quarry. The Lighthouse appearing Tower was finished with construction, and had a lovely modern look. As per our usual we snapped some photographs and enjoyed this peaceful locale.

We then headed around the quarry, stopping at various openings to capture the diverse perspectives. The rocks at the quarry are quite magnificent, and the views are just beautiful. We noticed birds enjoying the water, and viewed the Tower from afar. I dreamed about a jump and swim as the heat of the day was quite intense. However we carried on and headed toward the ocean shore. The small path to the rocks was quite pleasing, and distinctive. You can see the ocean in the distance, always adding great anticipation. There were not as many flowers as I have discovered on past visits, however this did not dampen the coastal beauty.

Upon arrival I was surprised at how crowded the rocky shore was, however thankful that generally people were scattered, providing for the necessary social distancing. My Mom found a quiet spot to sit and Wilma and I headed off to for a little rock-jumping walk. There were rocks of all shapes and sizes, requiring careful balance and placement. We hopped to the water’s edge, and appreciated the waves, colors of blue, several boats, and textured seaweed. Wilma appeared tempted to enter the water but seemed quite uneasy with the splashing waves. I was disappointed as it was quite a warm day. However soon my entertainment began as Wilma dived into the tidal pool and began flinging herself into the seaweed – it was absolutely hysterical. As you will know if you follow by blog, Wilma does not like the water, so this scene was quite spectacular for her water-loving Mother to watch. She dipped her face in the water, and rolled on the seaweed. Wilma had so much fun, it was perfect! I was especially glad that this enabled a cool-down on a hot summer day. And I can promise you Wilma is quite the adorable wet dog, a sight I have rarely seen.

After exploring closer to the shore we headed back to My Mom and relaxed for a little time before heading back. It was definitely too hot but we still had a wonderful time at Halibut Point State Park. Halibut Point State Park is definitely a local gem, and a Park we look forward to visiting again in the future (Rating: 4).

Today, July 9, 2020