September 13, 2018 – Stage Fort Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. In July 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I also visited Stage Fort Park. These types of Adventures are my favorite, the Adventure where all three of my best friends had the opportunity to explore the same location! Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed.

Stage Fort Park is a historic park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It was in 1623 that Gloucester’s first settlers set up fishing “staging” on this land. The area was fortified until the Spanish-American War. The Park includes: a gazebo, several beaches, recreational facilities, a privately owned restaurant (open seasonally), and gorgeous coastal views.

We had a lovely Adventure to Fort Stage Park. I was humored viewing photographs from our Adventure three years ago noting the similarities in both the weather, and our “hot spots”. Highlights of both Adventures included: relaxing on the beach, digging in the sand, and enjoying the spectacular coastal views. I also found myself drawn to the gigantic rock, and the unique cement stairs along the paths. We walked around the park savoring the spectacular coastal views, climbing on the boulders, and checking out the canons, and Fort area.

After exploring for a bit we headed to the beach. Wilma dipped into the water, deeper then most days, although soon becoming spooked by the waves. However, Shadow showed no fear, enjoying sitting, and dipping in to the ocean water. The beach was inspiring, and relaxing, always a peaceful oasis. On our first journey we watched the scuba divers, while on yesterday’s Adventure there was a low flying helicopter exercise on display. The park overall was simple, but had spectacular rocky coastal scenery, and some unique features that we thoroughly enjoyed (Rating: 3).

September 13, 2018

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July 25, 2015

September 7, 2018 – Bancroft Tower – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Bancroft Tower in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Bancroft Tower is a natural stone, and granite structure that appears like an ancient castle. The Tower was built in 1900 in memory of George Bancroft, a secretary in the Navy, diplomat, historian and a native of Worcester, Massachusetts. The Tower was built by Brancoft’s childhood friend, Stephen Salisbury, and is situated in the Salisbury Park. The Tower is open for tours during certain days in October.

We had a magical Adventure to this spectacular, castle-like structure. Although another cloudy and dark day, we were pleased to feel like Fall is just on the horizon. Parking was available next to the Tower, and we had this intriguing landmark all to ourselves. We walked around the castle, through the arches, up the stairs, again, and again taking in this majestic Tower. The structure made you feel as though you were transformed into medieval times, away from the worries of the modern world. Definitely one of those places where you could stay for hours, such a unique, and extraordinary location. There were no colors, landscaping, or any additional perks, however our fascination with the structure was all we needed to feel fulfilled. So glad we were able to find the Bancroft Tower to explore on our adventure today (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Fort Williams Park – July 2017

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 July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park is a 90 acres Park located in the Casco Bay. It includes: the Portland Head Lighthouse and museum, beautiful coastal views, and historic ruins. It was formerly a United States Army Fort, but in 1979 became designated as Fort Williams State Park.

We had a short, yet wonderful visit to Fort Williams State Park. It was especially exciting as it was Wilma’s first trip to Maine! We started our journey with the Portland Head Lighthouse, a beautiful lighthouse, providing a close-up, and personal view. We spent some time near the lighthouse, taking in the moments, and the gorgeous scenery. We then were elated to see a sign for Gelatos, but yet soon disappointed that it was closed. Oh well, we were on to the magnificent coastal views, so no complaining here! There were splendid wild flowers and benches along the trails, a peaceful oasis. Definitely not lacking stunning scenery for some photographs.

From there we headed to the ruins. I do not believe I captured all the areas in photographs, but snapped some quick one of Goddard Mansion, on the hill above. It was beginning to get dark, but I did my best to capture this incredible mansion ruins. A new Adventure for Shadow, and the beginning of Wilma’s many adventures to come (Rating: 4).

September 1, 2018 – Weeks State Park – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Weeks State Park in Lancaster, New Hampshire. Weeks State Park is a Historic Site located on Mt. Prospect. It was the estate of John Wingate Weeks who worked under Presidents Harding and Coolidge. He was a conservationist and a congressman. The property contains 446 acres and was given to the state of New Hampshire by his children in 1941. It includes a museum, stone fire tower,and trails throughout. The Park is known for spectacular views, including of the Presidential Mountain Range.

We were elated to find Weeks State Park online, leading us to great anticipation of a wonderful Adventure. Upon arrival we drove up to the top of Mt. Prospect on the narrow road. There were two spots with views that we stopped to photograph on the way. They were clearly labeled, allowing us to identify the various mountains and bodies of water. A nice feature to these planned look-out sites.

On arrival at the summit we had a nice view of the estate, several buildings, and the scenic tower. We began exploring on the nature trails. The trails were simple, and not well labeled, however they were surrounding the estate. We circled around until we reached the “North Overlook”, providing a raised view of the area. After checking out the “North Overlook” we returned to the estates snapping photographs of the buildings, towers, and landscape. I thought the tower climb might be too ambitious for Shadow so we skipped this aspect of the Park. However, we enjoyed chatting with some locals, exploring the main porch, and resting in the grass. Quite the unique architecture, almost like a European retreat. We definitely enjoyed our Adventure to the Weeks State Park (Rating 3).

October 2016 – Vermont – Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

In October 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I journeyed to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park in Woodstock, Vermont. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed! This National Park was named for George Perkins Marsh, and Frederick Billings. George Perkins Marsh was one of the nation’s first global thinkers, while Frederick Billings, was an early conservationist. The park includes: trails, horseback carriage rides, a victorian mansion, and a museum. It is also a popular location for cross-country skiing in the winter.

We choose a gorgeous, cool, fall day to visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. I did not conduct a lot of research before this adventure, so we decided to let our eyes (and snouts 🙂 ) guide us. We wandered around the trails, and enjoyed the beautiful architecture of the mansion, and the gorgeous gardens. There were luscious fields, landscaped gardens, and even some Robert Frost postings along the trails. We also spent some time relaxing in front of the Victorian mansion. It was a beautiful stop, and I do plan to visit Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park again in the future (Rating: 4).

June 23, 2018 – Greycourt State Park – Massachusetts

Today we visited Greycourt State Park in Methuen, Massachusetts. This Park is a recreation area that covers 24 acres atop the partially restored ruins of the Charles H. Tenney estate. Grey Court, which is also referred to as Tenney Castle, was built in 1893. It was the centerpiece of the Charles H. Tenney estate. The Tenney family were a successful business family, world known merchants in the business of hats. The Tenney Castle was later destroyed by fire in 1978.

This Park was not easy to find, but luckily I had done some research ahead of time, and knew exactly how to locate it. We parked at City Hall, and hiked from the Historical Society down the paved road to the park. It did not take long to locate castle ruins up on the hill. Many tall trees and green landscape surrounded this spectacular landmark. The paved trail took us up a small hill, and directly to the ruins. We strolled through the beautiful architecture, taking many photos. I was awed by this castle ruins, and enjoyed studying the many architectural features. There was an old water fountain, lots of holes to peer through and beautiful arches, and pillars. Standing in the ruins really made me feel like I was on an international journey, almost magical.

Once we had finished wandering the ruins we sauntered past and found some dirt paths. There were no markings, or directors, but we weaved in and out of the trails. I found them a bit humdrum, and was disappointed to hear clear sounds of cars and construction. However, we found some unique trees, and were able to get some always valued exercise.

After we finished at the trails we headed back to the castle ruins for one last visit. We sat for a bit next to the ruins, where Shadow and Wilma enjoyed their normal rolls, and some time playing together. We only saw a couple people on our visit, mostly locals walking through the area with their dogs. It was a fun little spot, and definitely a cool ruin to explore (Rating: 3).

May 20, 2018 – Massachusetts – Minuteman National Historic Park

Today we visited Minuteman National Historic Park, which we have visited before. This Park includes the towns of Lincoln, Concord, and Lexington. Minuteman National Park commemorates the opening battle in the American Revolutionary War. The park encompasses over 900 acres of land, and includes the North Bridge, “The Battle Road Trail”, and The Wayside Inn.

We strolled along the trails, over the North Bridge, stopping at various landmarks, along, and adjacent to the trail. It was a humid spring day, a good excuse for Shadow to enjoy a swim in the Concord River. Wilma herself enjoyed a good bark at the Daniel Chester French’s statue “Minute Man” (video below.) She must know history is really not my thing, a good reason to add a history stop to our adventures. (Rating: 3)

May 19, 2018 – Massachusetts – Bancroft Castle

Today we had our second adventure to Bancroft’s Castle in Groton. (I therefore will include pictures from our first visit too, just last November). Bancroft’s Castle was built in 1906 by General William Bancroft on Gibbet Hill in Groton, Massachusetts. Much of this Castle was destroyed in July 1932 during a fire. The Castle and trails are now part of Groton’s conservation land, so it can be enjoyed by all.

A steep, but short walk up a hill brings you to this small Castle, neighboring a local pasture. The Castle itself is towering in height, but yet small in area. I took many photos as we walked throughout the ruins of the Castle. Wilma enjoyed jumping throughout the hideouts, while Shadow was eager to pose for photos, my treat driven boy. After enjoying this unique spot, we wandered the nearby trails. This area gives quite the view of the town of Groton and surrounding areas. The Castle is quite the hidden gem. (Rating: 4)

May 19, 2018

November 4, 2017

April 23, 2018 – Getaway to Connecticut – Day Two

We started a relaxing Day Two of our getaway in Connecticut waking up at a beautiful, dog-friendly accommodation called Green Acres Bed and Breakfast. Green Acres is an early eighteenth century farmhouse located in Simsbury, CT. I felt immediately at home upon arrival, being greeted by the innkeepers’ three rescue dogs. This property was beautifully landscaped with fountains, and a pool. We stayed longer than planned chatting with the owners, who were quite hospitable. Although it is easy to find a place that allows dogs, it is hard to find one that is truly dog friendly. This was a dream find for a crazy dog mama like myself. Before we departed I enjoyed an elegant breakfast, and left feeling like a queen. It is definitely a place we plan to stay at again. (Rated: 5)

Our first stop on Day Two was the Stratton Brook State Park in Simsbury, CT. Stratton Brook State Park was Connecticut’s first state park to be completely wheelchair accessible, and is a designated “Trout Park”. This was a very simple park, but had some lovely trails through the woods, over a creek, and even several ponds, popular for fishing. Shadow enjoyed a swim in the creek, while me and Wilma watched from the little bridge above. We then discovered another adorable covered bridge, perfect in shape, and bright in color. I love scouting out covered bridges. They sometimes make me feel like a professional photographer, stunning in their own solidarity. (Rated: 3)

For our second stop we briefly visited Collinsville, CT. Collinsville is considered a small village in the town of Canton, CT. Collinsville was built around the Collins Company factory. These factory buildings were powered by the river, and have since been rented out to local businesses. We traversed the bridge over the Farmington River, taking photos along the way. Just a quick stop before we headed off to a more dog friendly area, a little too industrial for me. (Rating: 2)

Next we journeyed to Enders State Forest in Granby, CT. This was definitely my favorite location of our Connecticut getaway. The Enders State Forest incorporates nearly 2100 acres of wilderness, including the Salmon River, and approximately five waterfalls abutting the trails. The sounds of the babbling brooks, numerous hide-outs along the River, and steep, rocky views provide quite the sensory experience. Some good exercise along the trails, but yet a relaxing retreat. Definitely a true gem of a park. (Rating: 4)

Our next stop was one of those spontaneous pit stops, directly along the roadside. This location was the Barkhamsted Reservoir, Saville Dam. The Saville Dam is on the Farmington River, and forms the Barkhamsted Reservoir, the primary water source of Hartford, CT. We had driven by this area once before, but this was the first time we had some extra time to wander, and of course shoot some photos. The sun was beaming on the Reservoir, and the view amazingly picturesque. One of our humorous moment occurred at this site. As some of you may know Wilma just turned one, so has many unpredictable moments of joy, and really just utter chaos. On at least three occasions she began rolling on her back, and started flailing down the hill. I attempted taking a video, which I will post below. I am not sure if I captured the moment for my audience, but definitely did capture a memory. The Barkhamsted Reservoir and Saville Dam may be a place to explore more at a future time. (Rating: 4)

Our last stop of the day was at Soldier’s Monument in Winsted, CT. Although I am far from a history buff, I love the gorgeous landmarks that are created to memorize, and honor those who sacrifice their lives for others. The Soldiers’ Monument and Memorial Park is a Memorial for the American Civil War. It was initially dedicated on September 11, 1890, while renovations and additions have occurred since. It is a small area, but very picturesque with the main monument located at the top of a little hill. (Rating: 3)

So this brings me to the end to our Two Day Connecticut getaway. We had a wonderful time exploring, and look forward to our next new Adventure. Evidence of a successful vacation can be seen below, the best travel buddies I know!