Throwback Adventure – The Frost Place – October 2017

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!

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.

In October 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to The Frost Place in Fraconia, New Hampshire. The Frost Place was poet Robert Frost’s home in the White Mountains. It is considered a “house museum”. The property includes a museum, a nature trail displaying Frost’s poems, and museum grounds.

We had a wonderful Adventure to The Frost Place on a gorgeous Fall day. We began our visit on the trail through the woods, stopping to read the poems, and snapping many photographs along the way. The trail was short, but pleasant. After completing the trail we returned to the location of Frost’s home. Near the home there was a barn-like area allowing you to make purchases and watch an informational video. We watched the beginning of the video, but did not find it too interesting, so headed over to check out the stunning views of the mountains. It was a beautifully picturesque and unique location in one of my favorite areas of the White Mountains. So glad we were able to explore the Frost Place (Rating: 4).

November 10, 2018 – Fort Foster Park – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Foster Park in Kittery, Maine. Fort Foster Park includes: beaches, trails, and the historic Fort Foster which was active from 1901-1946. The Park is located on Gerrish Island. It has scenic views of Portsmouth Harbor.

We had a gorgeously scenic Adventure to Fort Foster Park. We were happy the rainy morning had cleared, and it had become a sunny, windy, and blue-sky filled day. The gate was closed for driving so we parked and began our walk into the Park. We soon arrived at the Fort, and began exploring. We were able to climb to the top of the Fort and view the Harbor. We then wandered down the shore, finding a long and picturesque bridge. I decided not to journey out on the bridge as I could not believe the strength of the wind. However we took some photographs and headed along the shore.

We quickly found an amazing trail down the shore. The waves were loud, and crashing into the rocks, while the view was perfectly coastal. One reason I had choose this park was to see the best view of the Whaleback Lighthouse from shore, and although far in the distance the sky, and waves painted a lovely site. While enjoying the view of the Lighthouse we continued along this trail. We headed over to the rocky shore on several occasions, although I often was cautious due to the strength of the waves against the rocks. We found the observation and fire control along the way, snapping a couple photographs before returning to the coastal trail. The trail ended at a rocky beach, where we turned around to enjoy this spectacular walk once again.

When we were almost back to the Fort the sky suddenly darkened and we were caught in a hail storm, with an immense increase in wind force. Such a bizarre and fun moment in our Adventure. I do not think I have ever been in such a wind storm! We continued walking, and the “storm” soon ceased. We were then pleased to find the upper part of the Fort and explored the various doors, stairs, and features throughout.

Highlights of today’s Adventure were: energetic roles in the grass, the crashing waves, an unexpected hail storm, the breathtaking views, and play-time on the beach. Shadow and Wilma seemed especially enthusiastic, savoring all moments and smells at Fort Foster Park. Although the Fall season can create some dull landscape on the shore, the coastal views, perfect sky, and wonderful Adventure made for the perfect afternoon. I would definitely recommend you visit this magnificent Park, and I do expect we will be back (Rating: 4).

November 4, 2018 – Halibut Point State Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Massachusetts. We have been there on numerous other occasions. 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 on the grounds that both appear to be under construction.

We had a fantastic Adventure to Halibut Point State Park on a beautiful sunny Fall day. It was a bit breezy being on the coast, but not overly chilly. We started down the Fall colored trail which quickly led to the quarry. We decided to head over to the lighthouse, soon noting it was under construction. The view across the quarry from this spot was spectacular, some Fall trees aligning the background. From there we began our circle around the quarry, and branched off to the rocky shore.

The rocky shore is definitely a fun spot at the Halibut Point State Park. It allows you to separate from the many visitors and jump from rock to rock, exploring tidal pools as you choose. The tide appeared to be in, so there were not quite as many rock as I recall. We walked around a bit, Wilma appearing over-enthused, likely due to the many rocks. I had to watch to not loose my balance as she often jumped unexpectedly in every direction, continually trying to engage Shadow in some play-time. Shadow appeared content relaxing on the rocks, eager to get my attention as we took in the roaring music of the waves. We even took some photographs for our holiday card, a fun project in the making.

After enjoying some time at the shore we continued circling the trail around the quarry, often heading over to the edge to snap some photographs. It was a beautiful day at a unique location. I am guessing it may have been one of Wilma’s favorites as she protested by laying near the car when we were trying to leave. Never a dull moment in our household!

I included some photographs from some of our past trips to the Park. I am sure we will be back to explore Halibut Point State Park (Rating: 4).

Today, November 4, 2018

October 2017

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Throwback Adventure – Castle in the Clouds – August 2015

In August 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to The Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. Castle in the Clouds is a mountaintop estate that overlooks the Lakes Region. The estate’s mansion, often referred to as Lucknow, was previously owned by Thomas and Olive Plant. The mansion was foreclosed on, and had several different owners after the Plants passed away. Castle in the Clouds is now operated by the Castle Preservation Society. In addition to mansion tours, Castle in the Clouds includes: a restaurant, gardens, an art gallery, a trout filed Pond, and numerous hiking trails. Castle in the Clouds is open seasonally.

We had a short, but scenic Adventure at Castle in the Clouds after a long day of hiking. As you have “heard” before if you follow my blog, my detailed memory of my Throwback Adventures is generally not as sharp as our current Adventures. However I remember enjoying the spectacular beauty of the area as the evening was almost upon us. The views of the Lake regions was stunning, and the mountain framed pond perfectly picturesque. We even found some dog statues along the way, just right for our dog-driven Adventure. I was pleased to get Buster and Shadow some ice cream to finish up a lovely Summer evening.

One memory I will never forget was when leaving this area a bear ran right in front of the car. I could not believe my eyes, and was quite relieved to be in the safety of my the car. Castle in the Clouds was a beautiful way to wrap up another lovely day of Adventures (Rating: 4).

October 28, 2018 – Gillette Castle State Park – Connecticut

Today we Adventured to Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, Connecticut. This was our second trip to the Gillette Castle. Gillette Castle was once the estate of William Gillette, a famous Actor in the early 1900’s. It was later bought by the state of Connecticut. The Park includes a visitor center, museum, hiking trails, and picnic area. There are even live theater events and walking tours available to visitors.

We had an intriguing Adventure to Gillette Castle State Park. Our first visit was in August 2018, on a warm day, while today was a overcast, almost chilly Fall day. Gillette Castle State Park is a magical experience, transforming visitors back into medieval time, or sensing an escape on a journey abroad. We greatly enjoyed our visit to the Castle, circling the grand structure many times so as not to miss an inch. Shadow enjoyed some rolls in the grass, while Wilma jumped up high to climb along the rock-like fence, posing for photos. Not only is the Castle itself just breathtaking, it is located on the beautiful Connecticut River vast with Fall foliage. Just gorgeous from every direction! Today the Castle was mobbed with visitors, dulling the experience a bit, but really that cannot take away from the brilliant beauty of the Castle.

After visiting the Castle we wandered the trails on the side of the Park, and headed down to the water. Shadow and I were a bit tired from our earlier Adventure so we decided not to engage in any strenuous or lengthy hiking. The trails were not labeled, so we just sauntered around for a bit. We were thrilled to locate three adorable walking bridges along the way, adding some charm to the trails. From the trails we walked around some spots along the main road, finding a gorgeous stone bridge, a leaf filled pond, and several other small features along the way. We of course had to have one last visit to the Castle before finishing up our day. Although I wish we could have had this spot all to ourselves (haha), we still cannot say enough about the spectacular Gillette Castle State Park. I expect we will be back again in the future (Rating: 5).

October 2018

August 2017

Throwback Adventure – Samuel Champlain Memorial Lighthouse – October 2015

In October 2015 Buster, Shadow and I Adventured to the Samuel Champlain Memorial Lighthouse in Crown Point, New York. In July 1609 Samuel Champlain discovered the lake now known as Lake Champlain. An existing lighthouse was converted into a Memorial of the explorer in 1912, on the 300th anniversary of this discovery. The Monument is granite in material, and provides a staircase to climb for a spectacular view. The lighthouse was later deactivated as a bridge from New York and Vermont was constructed, and it was no longer needed. The Mounument is located on the grounds of the Crown Point Reservation.

Shadow, Buster, and I had a wonderful Adventure to the Samuel Champlain Memorial Lighthouse, three years ago. I absolutely love sharing my Throwback Blog, however my memory is not quite as detailed of these Adventures. However I still have fond memories of our visit to the Monument. The sun was out and it was a gorgeous fall day. After spotting the Monument from afar we parked and took a long stroll over to the Monument. The Monument was beautiful, and photographed well with the Fall scenery. We walked around the Monument, and then down to the dock checking out the view across Lake Champlain, the mountains framing a bright blue sea. We sauntered around for a bit attempting to not miss a detail. It is especially an exceptional Adventure when we find one without planning. We were lucky to spot the Samuel Champlain Memorial Lighthouse on our travels today (Rating: 5).

October 22, 2018 – Dog Mountain/Dog Chapel – Vermont

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Dog Mountain, the home of the well known Dog Chapel. Dog Mountain is a 150 acre property on a mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The property was owned by the talented artist, furniture maker, sculptor and author, Stephen Huneck. Huneck turned his barn into studio space and was the visionary for the Dog Chapel. Much of Huneck’s later work was artwork of dogs and the bond between dogs and humans. Sadly Huneck died at just 61, however his vision lives on. Dog Mountain includes: numerous hiking trails, ponds, the gallery, and the Dog Chapel. They even host a variety of dog friendly events, including parties and concerts.

We had a therapeutic Adventure to Dog Mountain. It was two years ago this weekend that our love, Buster, passed away. Shadow and I visited the Dog Chapel the Winter after Buster died, and since then we have made it an annual visit to remember Buster, and support this absolutely peaceful, therapeutic, and amazingly remarkable location. On our first visit I posted Buster’s remembrance card on the memorialized wall of the Dog Chapel. The gorgeous Dog Chapel is a peaceful experience with quiet music, photographs plastered everywhere, artistic stain glass dog windows, and numerous small features honoring all the dogs that have passed. It was such a special experience that I cannot describe it in words. It almost was like a Memorial Service where you could honor the loyal dog that you loved dearly. Buster was an amazing energetic boy. He had a crazy tail, a happy howl, and a zest for life. He was a year younger then Shadow and they grew up best buds. It was absolutely devastating loosing him, and our experience at Dog Mountain helped provide some great healing and therapy. I highly recommend all those who love animals and have lost a pet visit this one of a kind spot dedicated to man’s best friend.

Although the Chapel was definitely our highlight of Dog Mountain we also enjoyed the trails, gallery, and chatting with other dog lovers. On our visit yesterday we started on one of the trails through the beautiful mountain area, with scenic views. It was very quiet and peaceful and we took in every thought and moment hiking on this grand Dog Mountain. After completing this loop we sat by the pond for a bit enjoying the mountain foliage while Shadow and Wilma enjoyed playing, and drinking some water from the pond. From there were headed to the gallery, so fun to have the dogs included in a shopping experience. Although I initially did not see Huneck’s artwork as “my style”, the meaning behind the art, the place it has become, and the therapy it has provided me, really has turned it into artwork I love and cherish. While in the gallery Shadow spent a good time napping in various spots, while I wandered with Wilma, searching for that perfect purchase. It was great to find some little souvenirs from our visit, therefore supporting this wonderful dedication to man’s best friend. It is just breathtaking seeing all the little details around the gallery, and property, from door knobs of dogs, to statues on the fence, to dog carvings holding up the toilet paper! Every feature was considered in this spectacular labor of love.

And of course we always visit the Chapel a second time before we leave Dog Mountain, soaking in the experience. We were lucky to have some time in solitude to remember all the fun times with our Buster. Not only a beautiful location, but really a glorious experience in all ways. I highly encourage all to visit this dedication of love, Dog Mountain, as nothing can compare. We look forward to next year’s visit to Dog Mountain (Rating: 5)

October 2018

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October 22, 2018 – Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge in Bath, New Hampshire. The Bridge was built in 1829 and covers the Ammonoosuc River. It is suspected to be the oldest covered bridge in New Hampshire. It is open to foot traffic only.

We enjoyed our Adventure to the Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge. It was nice to find a pedestrian-only bridge, allowing us to saunter under the lattice truss architecture. The views from the bridge were beautiful, filled with fall foliage and mountain scenes. As we began walking across we heard roaring water and were pleased to find yet another bridge with a water feature below. I was humored by a sign indicating a maximum number of people, (where usually the bridges display a car maximum).

After walking past the bridge we kept going and were soon enthused to find a trail down to the River, with a splendid view of the bridge. Shadow enjoyed a nap in the sand, Wilma sniffed around, and I snapped away. We spent some time at this bridge location before heading off to our next Adventure. We were pleased to wander around the Haverhill-Bath Covered Bridge today. (Rating: 4)

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October 22, 2018 – Bath Covered Bridge, New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Bath Covered Bridge in Bath, New Hampshire. The Bridge was built in 1832 and spans the Ammonoosuc River. It is one of New Hampshire’s oldest covered bridges.

We had a fun Adventure to the Bath Covered Bridge. It was another long bridge with red on the ends, a light colored wood on the side, and some small waterfall features below. Initially it looked like we would not get a good side view of the bridge, but the more we walked the more we discovered. Eventually we were under the bridge, and were able to walk along a work road that gave us a spectacular view. We went down to the River’s Edge for for some sticks, and sips, digging, even enjoying a short game of tug-a-war. Shadow and Wilma posed for some great photographs with the Bridge. I am especially enthused when I find a covered bridge that you really can explore, and the Bath Covered Bridge definitely provided this feature. We were quite happy to find the Bath Covered Bridge on our Adventure today (Rating: 4).

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October 20, 2018 – Lincoln Woods – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lincoln Woods a location in Lincoln, New Hampshire, along the Kancamangus Highway. We have been there before with Buster, and with My Mom. Lincoln Woods is a scenic area with many trails that enter the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountains. It is one of the first stops on the East side of the Kancamangus Highway.

Shadow, Wilma, and I had a refreshing Adventure to the Lincoln Woods trail. We have been there in just about every season, and it is one of the most extraordinary trails I have found, maybe even my favorite location for an Adventure. The area is absolutely gorgeous, beginning with a suspended bridge, to trails along the Pemigewasset River to streams along the way, to splendid mountain views, to scenic trails throughout. I would guess I have been there about five times and each time am awed by the beauty.

On today’s hike I was overjoyed to find another bridge across the River, as on our last visit Shadow almost did not make it across the suspended bridge. He appeared quite unstable with the swinging of the bridge and completely froze about halfway across. Therefore, I was extra pleased to find an alternate route. This alternate route also provided us a new and scenic angle of the River and suspended bridge. After crossing the bridge and enjoying the views we headed on our hike. Highlights of today’s Adventure included: time at the River’s edge, for some digging, and rock climbing, some sips from the streams along the way, colorful fall foliage, and and magnificent mountain views along the trail. It was a very cool day, but our hiking kept us warm and enthused. Although crowded this time of year the many trails helped mask the numerous number of tourists. One of those Adventures that I really cannot put into words, as you MUST Adventure this incredible location. As you might guess I would recommend a Fall visit in the colorful foliage of New England. I will include photographs from various trips we have taken and may add some on the future (Rating: 5).

Yesterday, October 20, 2018

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