September 21, 2019 – Aunt Carrie’s Ice Cream – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Aunt Carrie’s Ice Cream in Narragansett, Rhode Island. Aunt Carrie’s serves dinner, ice cream, and has a gift shop, parts of which are opened seasonally. The restaurant was built in 1920 and has been family owned since opening.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Aunt Carrie’s Ice Cream. I was quit thrilled to easily locate an ice cream stand for a snack, and a cool-down on this hot day. Shadow and Wilma were quite warm so they both enjoyed laying down in the shade of the counter while I ordered our goodies. I chose coffee ice cream with whip cream, while Shadow and Wilma ordered vanilla (haha). After receiving our ice cream we found a shady table to sit and devour our treats. We appreciated the shade and our delicious ice cream, and Shadow of course partook in a happy roll as we departed. We were all quite happy to locate Aunt Carrie’s Ice Cream for our Adventure today (Rating: 3.5).

September 14, 2019 – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cape Neddick “Nubble”. Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We had a perfect Adventure to the Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse. We have been to the Nubble Lighthouse many times previously, but it really is quite spectacular, so I decided to blog about it again. We arrived to find huge gust of winds, an incoming tide, and an abundance of crashing waves, a gorgeous scene. Upon wandering around, we soon found some scuba divers performing a practice exercise. Wilma was quite intrigued by the divers, unsure of the scene. We observed for a bit before moving on, climbing on the rocks, and loving every moment. There were flowers between the rocks, and in the grass, bright yellows, pinks, and whites, just lovely. We explored, and explored, cherishing the full coastal experience. Shadow especially loved his rolls, and often searched for a tidal pool, hoping for a sip and dip. Wilma was quite wild at this location, energized by the rocks, and guest attention. Thankfully I manged to stay on my feet in Wilma’s exuberance. After wandering around for awhile we sat in the grass to relax and savor our wonderful afternoon.

Before we left Nubble Lighthouse I decided to check out the food at Fox’s Lobster House, located on the property. I was quite thankful to see an outdoor window. The menu appeared a bit pricey so a good excuse to order myself an ice cream, and a “puppy pop” for Shadow and Wilma. Although there was a seating area the location was very busy with guests so I felt it ideal to find a rock and a grassy spot to savor our treats. Our timing was not ideal as it began pouring! Shadow quickly began eating his “pop” while Wilma wanted nothing to do with the rain. So I attempted to eat my ice cream, and next thing I knew Shadow’s had vanished. I searched the crannies of the nearby rocks and was unable to locate the “pop”. Shadow decided to go for seconds, grabbing Wilma’s bowl. I somehow was able to rescue it for Wilma and we scurried back to the car. I felt badly I could not locate Shadow’s dish, and thought for a quick moment – did he eat that too?! Wilma was able to eat her “pop” in the car but seemed to have lost interest.

The Nubble Lighthouse is a special place. The only downfall is the large tourist draw, buses even arriving and dropping off guests. However, we had a magnificent visit to the Nubble Lighthouse, a quintessential New England landmark (Rating: 4.5)

Please see below for photos and videos from today’s visit, and at the bottom I included several from previous visits, including with our love Buster

Previous Visits:

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.

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 19, 2019 – Trails End Ice Cream Shop – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Trails End Ice Cream Shop in Intervale, New Hampshire. The Shop includes homemade ice cream, soft serve, shakes, sundaes and much more. They even provide free sprinkles to their customers!

We had a delicious Adventure to the Trails End Ice Cream Shop, on a day of numerous Adventures. We had just spent several hours hiking, so it was especially the perfect treat. The Trails End Ice Cream Shop was located on a busy road, and did not provide any shady seating, however did provide lovely mountain views from afar. I ordered a creamsicle shake, and the pups had a dog ice cream, soft serve adorned with treats. After ordering I decided to drive across the street to a “scenic” area where we could enjoy these refreshments. Shadow and Wilma very quickly ate their ice cream with mountain views framing each lick. Shadow finished his ice cream with a celebration roll, while Wilma barked hello to a distant dog friend. I sat for a couple minutes before we headed out on our next Adventure. You really cannot go wrong with any kind of ice cream on a warm summer day (Rating: 4).

August 11, 2019 – Rocky Neck Art Colony – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Rocky Neck Art Colony in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Rocky Neck Art Colony is located on the Gloucester peninsula. It is considered one of the oldest art colonies in the country. Artists include: jewelers, painters, and photographers. Rocky neck includes many restaurants with outdoor seating and scenic views. It also contains the Gloucester Marine Railways one of the oldest shipyards in the country.

We had a coastal Adventure to Rocky Neck. We left later then I had planned (as my squirrel-stalker Wilma was having too much backyard fun) so we ended up taking a detour. My initial destination was overtaken by in-season crowds, quick eliminating my initial plan. I therefore was pleased to find the nearby Rocky Neck Colony. This was a place I had been once before and figured it would be a beautiful alternative for a summer stroll.

Upon arrival at Rocky Neck we immediately found free street parking. The walk was a gorgeous coastal scene. There were shops, galleries, and restaurants, many decorated with colorful flowers, and art displays. Rocky Neck was uniquely artsy, as expected, with paintings on outside buildings including window sills, and painted windows. The coastal views were spectacular with boats of all shapes and sizes. We ended our walk exploring the shipyard before turning around and enjoying some delicious ice cream at Rocky Neck Ice Cream.

Our last stop on this Adventure was a surprise, finding a hidden beach area along Rocky Neck. There were two simple parks opposite from one another, one with a beach. I was thrilled to find this, and before you knew it Shadow was instantly refreshed! I waded in with my sneakers and was quite impressed with Wilma sneaking in farther then usual. Shadow preferred to stay in the water while Wilma eagerly waited his return, spent some time digging, and enjoyed exploring some shells. We sat for awhile on the beach and appreciated the sights around us. Watching them made me laugh Wilma wild and energetic, Shadow calm and relaxed. It really was just a perfect way to end our visit to Rocky Neck. We spent about two hours exploring this peninsula and I am sure we will be back (Rating: 4).

July 6, 2019 – Gary’s Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Tonight Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Gary’s Ice Cream in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Gary’s Ice Cream was founded by Gary Frascarelli who is a hands-on owner, creating, designing, and selling his products. Gary’s Ice Cream is known for making each and every flavor of their ice cream.

We had a stomach-filling Adventure to Gary’s Ice Cream. We could not resist another ice cream Adventure after a hot and stormy day. Upon arrival we were not surprised to see few visitors with the storm just barely having passed through. The dogs put in their order (haha) while I decided to go for a root beer float. I was a bit disappointed to see store bought dog ice cream, although I guess that is not fair of me to complain as they did offer dog ice cream! A treat was also added to their order!

After receiving our goodies we headed over to the picnic tables in the grass. It was raining, but I did not see any lightning so we relaxed for a bit, savoring our refreshing deserts! There was a tiny scenic bridge, and some lilies, but overall a simple setting. We walked around after Shadow and Wilma finished their ice cream. I then decided to bring home the remainder of my very large, and sticky float. I think my favorite part of Gary’s Ice cream was their dog loving ice cream cup! It was nice to find yet another local ice cream shop on this stormy evening (Rating: 3).

June 30, 2019 – Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant in Lowell, Massachusetts. Heritage Farm has homemade ice cream, burgers, and sandwiches. It was established in 1976 by the current owners, however previous to that date it was an ice cream shop as well. Heritage Farms is known for sponsoring free entertainment, for their Classic Car show, and for being a contributing member of the community.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant. I started the weekend feeling quite frustrated, again having car issues which forced me to cancel our weekend Adventures. However, I decided to risk a somewhat local stop providing some variety to our daily neighborhood walks and backyard fun.

We definitely appreciated our visit to Heritage Farms, which had a vintage, and patriotic vibe. I quickly ordered two dog ice creams, and decided on an orange sherbert cooler for me. Only one size available for my cooler creating an extra-large experience, but of course I did not have any problem sipping it down. The Farm was very quiet, so we were able to sit for a bit and enjoy our tasty treats. There was a cute little merry go around for the little ones, and some mechanical cars for riding. The “Farm” was nicely decorated, with white petunias, american flags, and colors preparing for this July 4th week. I would have preferred the “Farm” to be away from the main drag, however, a bit unrealistic in an urban setting like Lowell. A unique stop, and although the ice cream was quite pricey, the taste was well worth the cost. If we are ever in the area again, we might just visit have round to at Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant (Rating: Ice cream: 5, Outdoor Restaurant: 4, Location: 3).

June 1, 2019 – Crescent Ridge Dairy – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Crescent Ridge Dairy in Sharon, Massachusetts. Crescent Ridge Dairy is a Farm that includes a shop, farm animals to view, and an ice cream stand. They specialize in local produce, and homemade products.

We had a mouthwatering Adventure to Crescent Ridge Dairy after our nearby hike at The Bradley Estate. It was great to arrive at this ice cream stand to find no lines! I checked out the menu and quickly decided to choose cookie doe ice cream with whip cream, and of course a dog ice cream for my two best friends. Once our order was ready we headed over to a shady area to gobble up our ice cream. So tasty! I was actually unable to finish my ice cream, however packed it up for a future treat. We walked around the property and found some benches in the back, and farm animals on the side. Wilma was thrilled to see the goats, and it appeared as if she wanted to play with them. It definitely brought a smile to my face. Shadow was more interested in trying to find leftovers under the tables, my always hopeful boy! We were quite happy to visit Crescent Ridge Dairy today (Rating: 4, Dog Ice Cream: 5)

May 27, 2019 – Granny’s Ice Cream – New York

I am a bit behind on my blog from the weekend as we had a busy weekend of Adventures. Therefore I will be sharing these Adventures throughout the week.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My friends, and I Adventured to Granny’s Ice Cream on Route 29 in Johnstown, New York. Granny’s Ice Cream is part of the Royal Mountain Campground, and offers soft serve ice cream and other light food items.

We had a tasty Adventure to Granny’s Ice Cream to begin our Memorial Day. I would say Granny’s Ice Cream is in somewhat of a remote area, however was quite busy, likely due to the campground, and popular motorcyle route. Wilma seemed a bit unsure of this unfamiliar environment so she hung out with one of my friends, while our other friend, Shadow, and I waited in line. (Maybe because there was a big wandering around on a leash – haha!) I decided to try the cotton candy soft serve, and of course two dog friendly ice creams. Shadow and Wilma gobbled up their ice cream quickly as we sat in the grass. I savored my cotton candy ice cream, until Wilma, had a moment of excitement and ended up IN my ice cream. The aftermath left her quite thrilled as she was able to lick up this new flavor on her covered foot! Luckily I was just about full, so I guess the moment could remain humorous. We sat for a bit socializing with our friends, relishing the last day of our vacation. Nothing too fancy, but definitely glad to chow down on some ice cream, something I had been hoping for since the weekend began. It was a delicious stop on our journey back to Massachusetts (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream – 5, Company: Just right!)