September 14, 2019 – Old York Historical Society Buildings – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Old York Museum Center and surrounding historical buildings in York, Maine. This early English settlement was one of the first colonies. The buildings are open to the public and include lovely architecture, artwork, and artifacts. There are tours, programs and events, and nine historic buildings to explore.

We had a simple Adventure to the Old York Historical Society Buildings on a dreary, dark day. I debated writing and posting this blog as dogs were not allowed inside the building, which only provided a limited visit. However, it a great historic location which others may not know about so here I go….

We began our Adventure at the Museum Center. From the door of the Center we began our journey hopping from building to building. The structures appeared historic, yet modern and unique. Without a map we walked from building to building attempting not to miss one. We also spotted a graveyard in the middle of our walk around the property. Our Adventure to the Old Historical Society Buildings was short as we could only walk around and near them, and besides the actual buildings there were very few outdoor artifacts. Still Glad we were able to explore this location, something many might not expect to find in coastal Maine (This location will not be rated as the site was not thoroughly explored).

Throwback Adventure – Kayaking – 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!

In the Summer of 2017 Shadow and I embarked on a peaceful kayaking Adventure. We had befriended a woman and her dog at a local park, and were thrilled that she offered to let us utilize her kayak. Unlike you might expect my water loving Shadow is generally not a fan of boats. He does not appreciate the rocking of a boat or any surface that brings uncertainty (smart boy!). However, I somehow was able to convince him to board the kayak, and we graceful kayaked around the lake. It was a very special memory I have with my Shadow. I seriously considered purchasing a kayak at the time, although that dream never came to fruition. However, we had a lovely day relaxing ON the lake, and of course Shadow appreciated some swims before and after our kayak Adventure. I was grateful that our friend took a couple photographs and a video (even if it’s sideways – oops) to memorialize this event forever. Definitely a special Adventure that I will always treasure!

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will 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.

So 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.

Today’s feature is a photograph of Shadow and Buster from a hike many years ago, near the AMC Lodge. It was a gorgeous day and the Fall foliage was spectacular. I LOVE this photograph as it is the perfect summary of an Adventure. Wonderful memories from one of our many Fall getaways! If you are local make sure you make a visit to the White Mountains in October, just spectacular!

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September 7, 2019 – Roger Williams Park – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island. This was Shadow and Wilma’s first visit to Roger Williams Park. Roger Williams Park was created in 1871 when Betsey William donated 102 acres of land to the city. Some of this land was owned by her great, great, great grandfather Roger Williams who founded Providence, and was one of the founder’s of the state. It has since grown, now consisting of over 435 acres of land. The park includes: walking trails, a carousel, ponds, gardens, sports fields, and the Roger Williams Park Zoo. It also contains several historic buildings including: the Botanical Center, the Museum of Natural History, the Casino, and Temple to Music.

We had an enjoyable Adventure to the Roger Williams Park. Initially I had planned to walk the white diamond trail, a 3.2 mile trail, so this is where we began. We commenced at the carousel, and found the white diamond trail in front of the boathouse. The trail soon headed over the road and paralleled the Lake. We quickly found ourselves alone on a peaceful trail, away from the bustle of a busy Park. I was disappointed to see some glass along the trail, but luckily the pups did not get any cuts or scratches. The pond views were lovely, but the algae filled pond slightly skewing the scene. However, we tried to concentrate on the visual experience, and an energizing walk, eagerly awaiting what might be around the corner.

Upon arrival at the Temple to Music we veered off the trail to view this magnificent structure from all angles. The Temple to Music is utilized for concerts, and I believe it was constructed of marble. It quite grand in size, and regally spectacular, just beautiful. I was disappointed to see goose poop all over the lawn, so we did not stay long, and sauntered over to the sidewalk. From here I changed my plan to walking around, and exploring the landmarks, and other hot spots throughout the park, versus concentrating on merely one trail. There were some signs identifying locations, lots of sidewalks to follow, and many statues.

Throughout our visit we especially enjoyed wandering through the Japanese gardens and rose gardens, finding some unique bridges, watching the swan boats float by, and viewing the Bandstand from across Roosevelt Lake. I loved watching the activities throughout the Park, and appreciated the diversity of the visitors. Shadow enjoyed his usual rolls although was thoroughly disappointed that swimming was not permitted. Wilma found some squirrels to chase, her favorite pastime at home. Rogers William Park is a unique location, with many things to explore. So glad we could explore Rogers William Park today (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – Miller State Park – New Hampshire

In May of 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to Miller State Park in Petersborough, New Hampshire. Miller State is the oldest state run park in New Hampshire, and is situated on the summit and side of Pack Monadnock. It is popular for hiking and snow-shoeing.

Shadow, Buster, and I had an energizing Adventure to Miller State Park. There were pretty pink flowers along the path, lots of pine trees, and scenic mountains views. The boys were quite tired from our hike so we were pleased to find a nice little spot for a shady nap along the way. As New Englanders we are lucky to have such a vast variety of state parks to explore. So glad we were able to visit Miller State Park (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Heading Home After a wonderful day of hiking, my smiling boys:

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September 2, 2019 – Farmer’s Market – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I met my Mom at a local Farmer’s Market for an afternoon Adventure. Farmer’s Markets are generally very dog friendly, and are great locations to purchase fresh produce, home made products, and many other items. This Fair was a bit smaller then I hoped yet it was fun to add some variety to the week. We purchased some strawberries, dog ice cream (of course!) and some Samos for dinner. We even found a vendor that had dog toys to share, a full water bowl, and gave Shadow and Wilma plenty of love. Shadow and Wilma received lots of attention and curious questions from other visitors. We enjoyed our visit the the Farmers Market.

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is an adorable photograph of Shadow and Buster, soon after I adopted Buster. Shadow was a little over a year old and Buster I would guess just under three months. It was a huge and nerve-racking decision adopting a second dog but was the BEST decision I could have ever made. As soon as we got home they were instant buddies, constantly playing, and having fun! I ADORE this photo. It was the beginning of our double Adventures. A photo I will treasure, and should easily add a smile to your day. One of favorites of my boys!

Shadow and Buster - Buster puppy

August 31, 2019 – Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Walk in New London, Connecticut. The Sculpture Walk is part of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The Sculptures include work from: Lyman Allyn, David Smalley, Judy Cotton, and Gilbert Boro. The Sculpture Trail is free, and maps are available in the museum and online.

We had an innovative Adventure to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail. We arrived right before the Museum closed so were able to acquire a map. We studied the map and began wandering on the side of the property, heading around the building and down the entrances. I think my favorite sculptures on this end were the “Foo Dog”, a sculpture from the early Qing Dynasty, and one that appeared an abstract heart, which of course I posed with my two best buds!

After checking out the entrance side for sculptures we walked over to the Deshon Allyn House, a historic home. The amble started down a slope leading to a simple, but scenic wooden bridge. The bridge was surrounded with gigantic, beautiful pink hibiscus, definitely some of the largest ones I have ever seen! It was the perfect entrance leading to the Home, a gorgeous architectural structure. The surrounding landscape was fantastic, highlighted by beautiful features, including elegant benches, and fencing. We snapped many photographs, and appreciated the experience. Shadow relished some cheerful rolls and resting in the grass, while Wilma enjoyed some rock hopping, while monitoring my Mom’s every move. Although you could see and hear the nearby highway, is still managed to be a peaceful oasis.

Our last part of exploring involved finding the rest of the sculptures in the front, and far side of the Museum building. There were several that made me think of hands, while one that I quickly labeled “Noah’s Arc”. We took some selfies, including a family photograph. By this point the Museum was closed leaving the grounds solely to ourselves. We really enjoyed our time exploring the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Trail. I love an Adventure with a map where you are searching for landmarks, in this case creative art sculptures. It is always nice to see art, literally in nature, quite the enriching experience. The Visitor Center was very kind and helpful, which added the perfect touch to our Adventure. A fun day at the Lyman Allyn Museum Sculpture Walk (Rating: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Rita’s Italian Ice – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Rita’s Italian Ice in New London, Connecticut. Rita’s is a national restaurant chain that began out of Pennsylvania. It is popular for the custards, italian ice, and specialty deserts. The ice is smoother then the “normal” italian ice and has fresh fruit.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Rita’s Italian Ice. I was sooo incredibly excited to go to Rita’s Italian Ice. I have special memories of Rita’s Italian Ice from my undergraduate years in Pennsylvania. We would go there for a special treat, with the small size being just 75 cents! It was so tasty, a great social time, and perfect for the college wallet. This was my first visit to Rita’s since that time! I was pleased to find that Rita’s provided a small custard cup for the dogs! After ordering our goodies we found a quiet seating area in the back. Both My Mom and I had ordered black cherry Gelato’s, and it did not disappoint. So delicious with custard on the bottom and top, creating the perfect creamy flavor. Shadow and Wilma thoroughly enjoyed their first custard experience and quickly devoured their treat. We were thankful that the temperature had cooled a bit and took our time enjoying every bite. So glad that I FINALLY could reminisce at Rita’s Italian Ice (Rating: Italian Ice and Custard: 5, Location: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Fort Trumbull State Park – Connecticut

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, Connecticut. Fort Trumbull was built in 1977, but was re-constructed several times, including the final rebuilding between 1839 and 1852. Fort Trumbull was attacked and captured by British Forces during the Revolutionary War. The Fort also was utilized as defense during future wars including the Civil War. It is located on the Thames River. Fort Trumbull was opened as a State Park in the year 2000. The Fort has a Visitor Center, offers tours, and hosts special events including concerts.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Trumbull State Park. We were excited to have my Mom join us for our Connecticut Adventures today. Upon arrival I was quite impressed by the grand, and scenic Fort. Over to the side you could see the beautiful, bright blue River, just a spectacular entrance. The grounds of the Fort were perfectly groomed. There were paved trails around the Fort, and a larger loop closer to the shore. We sauntered around the Fort, taking photos, and appreciating the sites. We spotted the Pier which was filled with hopeful fisherman. Near the Pier there was a large Coast Guard Boat, adding the perfect touch to the Park. We sat for a bit and relaxed in the shade. There were many boats floating by peacefully, quite picturesque.

As we completed our loop around the Fort we peaked inside the Fort to view the internal sites. The front desk had stated they preferred the dogs not enter the inside of the Fort, so we did not explore, or traverse to the top of the Fort. However, we engaged in our own personal tour of the rest of the highlights of the Park, covering everything we could locate.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma enjoyed many rolls, and lapped up lots of water. I was a bit disappointed at the unexpected heat of the day, but had luckily prepared well with lots of water, and breaks as needed. The Fort really was gorgeous, towering high above therefore providing vast views of the River. We had a wonderful visit to the Fort Trumbull State Park (Rating: 4).