July 23, 2019 – Fort Adams and The Bay Walk – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Adams State Park and The Bay Walk in Newport, Rhode Island. Fort Adams was an active Fort from 1841 into the 20th Century. It is currently open for private tours, and is the location for many events. Bay Walk is considered part of Fort Adams State Park, and is a 2.2 mile trail that loops around part of the Fort. It includes coastal views of the Narragansett Bay, and Newport Harbor.

We had a deja vous kind of Adventure as upon arrival everything looked quite familiar. Thrilled for no entrance, or parking fee, we began our visit viewing the front of the Fort soon becoming disappointed that we could not enter the interior. We therefore decided to ventured directly to The Bay Walk. The paved trail followed the perimeter of the Fort, along the Bay before heading inland, past the Eisenhower house, and then through the Harbor. There were many tents and distractions from the historical scenery however I tried to ignore that and concentrate on the main features. We saw fisherman along the way, lovely wildflowers, and gorgeous boats scattered throughout the Bay. There was one part where the trail became unclear, however, I knew where we were from our drive in, so continued on with no mis-direction.

My favorite part of this Adventure was what I believe was considered the “Harbor” packed fully with beautiful sailboats. It made me dream of a boat Adventure with the pups, sailing away from the hub-bib of life. The Bay Walk was nothing too intriguing but a unique way to experience a nice, long walk. Upon my return home I was able to track down photographs of a visit that Shadow, Buster, and I had on a chilly April day back in April 2015 – my deja vous solved!. I have included some of those photographs at the bottom of the photographs and videos from yesterday. Love that ALL of my pups experienced in a walk at Fort Adams State Park and The Bay Walk (Rating: 3).

April 2015 Adventure

July 23, 2019 – Castle Hill Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898, and is made of granite. It is located in the Narragansett Bay and continues to be an active lighthouse.

We had a perfect Adventure to the Castle Hill Lighthouse. We were pleased that the rain subsided, cooling down the air, and providing us the perfect opportunity for a new Adventure. I had done some research online about the Castle Hill Lighthouse but contacted the Castle Hill Inn to ensure that we could park at the Inn and visit the “private property”. I was thrilled to have that information confirmed so we hit the road. Upon arrival the Valet at the Castle Hill Inn informed us that they were not busy so we were able to park in the main parking lot, immediately next to the trail. The Lighthouse trail was not labeled so I was pleased to get these directions.

We were immediately drawn to the gorgeous views of the Narragansett Bay. It was absolutely breathtaking! The shores were rocky and we were able to check out the scene from high above. We took in the scenery, Shadow celebrating our arrival with a joyful roll! After appreciating the sites we headed down the trail. The path was simple, but perfect. There were wildflowers, and it was closed in at points with gorgeous greenery, almost magical. It really was just lovely. I was excited, eagerly awaiting the view of the Bay, and the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It did not take long for us to arrive at the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It was absolutely spectacular, quite unique in style. Pleased to have the area to ourselves we walked down the steps to the bottom of the Lighthouse, before heading back up and viewing each and every angle. It was a gorgeous location. We spent some time at this spot, snapping many photographs.

After taking in the scene we headed back to the trail to wander farther. We met several visitors along the way, which delighted energetic Wilma, who took in every bit of love. We walked for a couple minutes, and soon found a bench leading to the spectacular rocky shore. The rocks were uniquely shaped, and almost silver in color. I have been to many rocky shore but have never seen such stunning rocks. I did my best to find a smooth walk for Shadow and I, while Wilma jumped athletically from rock to rock. We soon found a perfect spot to sit, and relax, watching the fisherman, and appreciating the coastal breeze. Shadow enjoyed some rain water left in the rocks, and took a seat next to me, while Wilma focused her attention on the birds. Everything about this Adventure was just perfect. We will definitely have to visit the Castle Hill Lighthouse again (Rating: 5)

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 in Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. We had a gorgeous visit to Castle in the Clouds back in August 2015, one of our several stops on a day filled with Adventures. Besides our terrifying encounter with a bear, we really had a wonderful day. The scenery was gorgeous, and we enjoyed our visit. If you want to read more about my blog from our Adventure to Moultonborough, New Hampshire please search for Castle in the Clouds in the search box (to the right on your computer and on the bottom on your phone), or copy and paste the following:

https://adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/2018/11/01/throwback-blog-castle-in-the-clouds-august-2015/

boys in moultonborough

Other Tidbets, Fun, and News

So as you New Englanders know we are in the midst of a heat wave which has come with official warnings. And although I do not usually let the weather stop us I decided to not journey on a new Adventure this weekend. We were disappointed about this but tried to make the best of it. Our days have been filled with backyard fun, including agility, early morning neighborhood walks, brain activities, new bones, and Shadow swims at our neighborhood beach. We look forward to it cooling down and finding our next Adventure. I thought I’d share a couple photos and videos below from our weekend at home. Stay cool my friends!

January 6, 2019 – New Bedford – 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 January 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to New Bedford, Massachusetts. New Bedford is a city located in Southern Massachusetts. It is one of the bigger cities in the state. It if often referred to as “The Whaling City” as in the 19th Century it was one of the most important whaling ports in the world.

We had a foggy Adventure to New Bedford, Massachusetts. We visited many locations in New Bedford, including: Fort Taber, The New Bedford Covewalk, Palmer Lighthouse, the waterfront, and viewed the Butler Flats Lighthouse from afar. We walked, explored, and took photographs along the way. It was fun to visit a new town and to find continual places to check-out. We spent the entire day there, eventually being forced to leave at dusk. Definitely an interesting city to explore.

PS – I recently blogged specifically about Palmer Lighthouse so if you are interested in reading more on that spectacular Adventure please search for Palmer Lighthouse in the search box (to the right on your computer and on the bottom on your phone).

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a photograph of Buster from Echo Lake in October 2016. Shadow, Buster, My Mom and I had an AMAZING Fall getaway in the White Mountains. Little did we know Buster would pass away less then a week later. Although he had been diagnosed with a terminal medical condition we had no idea that he would leave us so quickly. This long weekend of Adventures was PERFECT and he seemed to be healthy and enjoy EVERY moment. This special trip will always bring back precious memories. I love this photo of my Buster, looking regal as always. We sure do miss him! So glad he was able to experience many special trips in his seven years of life.

Echo Lake 5 Oct 2016

July 14, 2019 – Village of Watch Hill – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Village of Watch Hill in Rhode Island. We visited Watch Hill after journeying to The Watch Hill Lighthouse (see previous blog). Watch Hill is an affluent coastal village in the Town of Westerly. It is home of the famous Ocean House hotel, and one of Taylor Swift’s mansions. It is a popular area for beach-goers, and is plentiful of shops, and restaurants. It is also home to a well-known, and historic carousel.

We had a warm Adventure to Watch Hill after a lovely visit to The Watch Hill Lighthouse. We were fortunate to arrive early as after returning from the Lighthouse I quickly realized how crowded the Village becomes. We luckily did not need more then the two-hour allowed parking time as parking past this time limit was quite pricey. We began our stroll along the water’s edge, the beautiful blue ocean highlighted by many boats, included several that appeared wooden, and likely historic. We strolled along, enjoying the sites, beautiful flowers, and the vacation atmosphere. There were numerous people headed to the beach, I almost wondered how they would all fit as the shoreline appeared so minuscule.

Overall I did not find Watch Hill to be too dog friendly, as the beaches, and other coastal parks did not permit dogs. However we were quite pleased to find numerous dog bowls filled with water for some sipping. Both Shadow and Wilma were quite tired from the heat so they relaxed a bit in the shade, and enjoyed many visitors who stopped to greet them. We saw very few dogs, likely as most of the visitors were headed to the beach. I enjoyed peaking in the stores to see all the lovely items for sale. Many of the shops had colorful flowers displayed in window boxes, or surrounding locations. Watch Hill was definitely a lovely spot, and may just be the perfect location to return in the off-season when it is much cooler for a walk. So glad we could visit this adorable coastal village today (Rating: 4).

July 14, 2019 – The Watch Hill Lighthouse- Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Watch Hill Lighthouse in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. The Watch Hill Lighthouse is located on a peninsula in Southern Rhode Island. It can be accessed by foot via a private road, while the museum is open during scheduled times. It is managed by the Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association.

We had a scenic Adventure to The Watch Hill Lighthouse. I was glad to have done some research ahead of time as I may have never found this hidden gem without it. We parked in the town of Watch Hill, in one of the two-hour parking spots and then headed up the hill to the private road. My attention was drawn to a red sign on the street which appeared to be the private road to the Lighthouse (although not indicating that specifically). I was a bit humored by the sign stating “NO DOGS, unless leashed”, and of course relieved that they were permitted as expected. Maybe a savvy way to ensure visitors followed the rules, or maybe something only I would notice?? From this sign we began our journey down this affluent area, gorgeous mansions lining the street with elegant landscaping. The street was very small so we were careful to watch for cars. It was not far when we spotted the Lighthouse from afar. It was quite the scene with the Atlantic Ocean on both sides, flowers scattered throughout and a large lawn immediately before it. Just a lovely journey leading to the final destination.

We soon arrived at the official entrance. There were few visitors, and many of those whom we observed were fishing. We headed toward the Lighthouse but quickly made a detour over to the rocky shore. Shadow, as expected, was eager for a swim, so I figured we would head through the rocks to the waters edge. Probably not the wisest decision as the rocks were extra slippery. I myself fell, and both Shadow and Wilma were surprisingly challenged by this footing. However we managed to make it to the Ocean therefore making Shadow’s day. I sat for a minute while Shadow could enjoy his moment. He seemed pleased, even though he could not wade in due to the excessive rocks. We only stayed briefly before stumbling back through the rocks.

After returning to stable footing we slowly weaved our way to the Lighthouse. It was a warm morning so we took time to sit in the grass and drink some water. Once we arrived at the Lighthouse I were disappointed to see it was a private entrance but took several photos at the gate. We then checked out the fisherman quarters and headed back. Of course we took some more time relaxing in the grass, appreciating the atmosphere and treasuring the journey. Shadow and Wilma showed their cheer with continual rolls and were clearly quite satisfied with their coastal Adventure. Our Adventure to the Lighthouse came to an end when we spotted Taylor Swift’s lovely mansion, and then strolled back down the road of dreams. Definitely what the doctor ordered as our coastal Adventure to The Watch Hill Lighthouse was just right. I may just have to start working on my singing career (Rating: 4.5)

Throwback Adventure – Town Neck Beach – Massachusetts

In April of 2014 Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I Adventured to Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts. Town Neck Beach is reached by a long, wooden boardwalk over a marshy-like area. The Beach provides views of the Cape Cod canal. As most of you are aware, Sandwich is part of Cape Cod.

We had a beautiful Adventure to the Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts. I clearly remember being absolutely awed at the beauty of the boardwalk, with the clear water below, and scenic marsh views. It was a very windy day, which added some Adventure to our stroll down the narrow boardwalk. The boardwalk was quiet, which was appreciated as my two large dogs took up most of the diameter. I greatly enjoyed this unusual pathway to the Beach.

Upon arrival at the end of the boardwalk we were high above the beach, providing lovely views. We made our way down the stairs and enjoyed our time at the shore walking, digging, posing, and relaxing. We were able to find someone to take photos of all four of us. This is something I remember vividly as Shadow and Buster were attempting to wrestle each other during several of the photographs making me chuckle. (One of the photos below you can see the beginning of their shenanigans). It was really a wonderful day, and a location I will always remember. I definitely hope to be back at the Town Neck Beach in the future (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated.)

July 10, 2019 – Boston Public Garden – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Boston Public Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Public Garden is a large park in Boston, Massachusetts. It was the first public botanical garden in the United States. The Friends of the Public Garden and Common works to preserve the Garden, and also various other locations in the city.

We had a metropolitan Adventure to the Boston Public Garden. Today was a unique Adventure for Wilma as she was solo, without big brother Shadow. Wilma had an early morning appointment, while Shadow was relaxing at the Grandma and Grandpa spa we figured it was a good opportunity for some training, and an energetic walk. I also did not feel Shadow would have enjoyed this Adventure due to the heat so we felt it would be a good day for both.

We began our Adventure to the Boston Public Gardens with some challenges with parking, however eventually decided to go for the Charles Avenue parking garage. Valet parking seemed a bit affluent for me, however it appeared to be the best option, and really the only possibility. The walk to the Garden followed a small side walk lined with many shops, restaurants, and businesses. I found this to be a great urban training experience for Wilma as she took in all the new smells, sounds, and sites.

It did not take a long to arrive at the entrance to the Garden. I was excited to visit the Garden, a place I had been thinking about visiting for a couple of weeks. Although I have been to the nearby Boston Commons, I do not remember ever having visited the Garden. The Garden was well manicure, with flowers, historic statues, and was centered by the scenic Lagoon. We made sure to walk around the entire Garden, not wanting to miss a thing. We often took breaks, sitting in the shade, and hydrating on this extra-warm early afternoon.

Wilma’s highlights of the Adventure included: chasing pigeons, relaxing in the shade, and the hunt of the overly-friendly city squirrels. She also appeared keen on walking on the cement around the Lagoon, peering at the swan boats, and watching the ducks. Wilma was very curious about her new environment, however appeared quite content. My favorite parts included: the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, the gorgeous flowers, the Lagoon and surrounding scenery, and watching Wilma experience a new environment. We were grateful for a new Adventure, natural shade, and time to train. The Boston Public Garden is definitely a fun place to explore (Rating: 3.5).