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!)

April 20, 2019 – Kimball Farm – Carlisle, Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Kimball Farm in Carlisle, Massachusetts. We have been to Kimball’s in Westford, but this was our first visit to the Carlisle location. Kimball’s Farm began as a dairy farm in 1908, with the Kimball family selling milk whole sale. In 1939 they opened an ice cream parlor, and began making handmade ice cream. Kimball Farm has grown over the years, and Carlisle is one of their expanded locations. The Kimball Farm continues to be family owned.

We had a delicious Adventure to Kimball Farm- Carlisle – on this humid and rainy day. I was excited to check out this location, a much quieter spot in the world of Kimball’s. I ordered our favorites – peppermint stick and dog ice cream. We enjoyed our tasty treats, and walked around the building checking out the location. There were benches, and some farm animals over to the side. Wilma was far from a fan of the goat so we did not spend time near the animals. It was nice to see the beautiful flower arrangements, singing spring. We definitely will be back to this tasty, quiet spot (Rating: 4).

April 13, 2019 – Shipwreck Ice Cream -Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Shipwreck Ice Cream in Sandwich, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Shipwreck Ice Cream is served from an outdoor window and as suggested specializes in ice cream and ice cream products.

We had a tasty Adventure to Shipwreck Ice Cream to wrap-up our day of spectacular Adventures. Shipwreck Ice Cream had a large listing of flavors and of course dog ice cream for my favorite pals. Shadow and Wilma watched attentively and eagerly ready to devour their tasty treat. I decided to order a peanut butter cup frappe, venturing away from my normal couple of flavors.

Once our order was complete we headed over to the nice open area with picnic tables and trees. I of course had to take some photographs before the pups savored their treats. Well maybe inhaled is a better way but either way they were quite pleased.

Shipwreck Ice Cream was a wonderful spot to finish a fun filled day of Adventures (Rating: 4).

December 2, 2018 – Tasty Dog Cookies

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I decided to make some dog cookies. As you may notice, if you follow my blog, our new and fancy Adventures slow down a bit as we get into the early to dark evenings, and the winter weather. However, there are many other things we do that I do not blog about, including: daily neighborhood walks, trips to the pet store, other local walks, Adventures to places we have already blogged about, and visiting our amazing family.

So today I thought I would blog about one of our fun “other” moments, enjoyable Tasty Dog Cookies. I started with finding a recipe online, with some healthy dog ingredients, and then tracked down my cookie cutters, including a squirrel for Wilma, a fire hydrant for Shadow, and a bone for all. Although quite disappointing in presentation, there was no lack of anticipation. Don’t tell Wilma Mae, but I let Shadow sample a couple of cookies, while she was out back stalking squirrels. Not one complaint! Wilma soon was able to sample some of her own, displaying a full bundle of enthusiasm. I even decided to make some people cookies for myself and our company tonight, making quite a perfect addition to our evening. I saved some of the dough for a future night of delicious cookies. So although we will likely plan for a different recipe on our next cookie Adventure, our appetites were satisfied.

Throwback Adventure – Castle in the Clouds – August 2015

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 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).

September 13, 2018 -White Farms Homemade Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to White Farms Homemade Ice Cream in Gloucester, Massachusetts. White Farms Homemade Ice Cream just recently opened in April of 2018.

We had a delicious Adventure to the White Farms Homemade Ice Cream stand. I was hardly up the steps to the window when the employee asked if the dogs could have some ice cream. Of course I agreed, and Shadow and Wilma quickly gobbled up their ice cream as we both watched the adorable licks.

The menu was unique with flavors grouped by colors. I was anticipating ice cream, but decided to order an orange sherbert shake, as there were no seating opportunities for guests. The perfect to-go treat that I savored on our drive home, just delicious (Rating: dog ice cream: 4, Shake: 4, Location: 3).

September 6, 2018 – Kimball Farm – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I went to Kimball’s Farm in Westford, Massachusetts. We have been to Kimball Farm many times over the years.
Kimball’s Farm began as a dairy farm in 1908, with the Kimball family selling milk whole sale. In 1939 they opened an ice cream parlor, and began making handmade ice cream. Kimball Farm has grown over the years, and now has three additional locations. The Kimball Farm continues to be family owned, and has expanded to sell food, and provide entertainment, including: a zip line, a golf course, a driving range, bumper boats, volleyball courts, a country store, and a seafood and grill shack.

I was excited to FINALLY head to Kimball’s for our first visit of the season. We were lucky to find a moment when the lines were short, and although a cloudy, dark day, the weather was just right. I ordered my favorite peppermint stick, and of course two plates of dogilicious ice cream. The pups guided us to our seats, and we quickly devoured our tasty ice cream. It is always a memorable experience being at Kimball’s as it was a place we frequented, growing up locally. Almost a little too crowded nowadays, but we still visit once or twice a year, and treasure many wonderful memories with family and friends. It is really unbelievable how it has grown, even a declared tourist attraction in the area.

After finishing up our ice cream, we decided to walk around to check on the latest additions to this marvelous family dynasty. Definitely an Adventure strolling by the goats as Wilma squealed, and barked, even standing on her back paws to catch a glimpse. We carefully made it past and on to the path beyond. We peaked around a bit before heading back to the car. Always a lovely, and tasty Adventure at Kimball’s Farm (Rating: 5, dog ice cream: 4).

PS – I could not resist including our Buster in the midst of today’s photographs. He had special times at Kimball’s too! We sure do miss him!

September 2, 2018 – Dimitri’s Pizza – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I visited Dimitri’s Pizza in Contoocook, New Hampshire. Dimitri’s is a family owned restaurant with a casual dining experience, and outdoor seating along the Contoocook River. They have a variety of menu items, including: pizza and home made ice cream.

We were not planning on ice cream today, but why not eat some ice cream at a beautiful riverfront location. We found Dimitri’s after our Adventure to the Contoocook Railroad Bridge, located directly next door to the Bridge. The place was bopping, with many pizza pick-ups coming and out. There was an outdoor window and quick service for ordering. I am always humored at how Shadow and Wilma anticipate the ice cream from the counter. I of course ordered them each a dog ice creams, and mint chocolate chip for myself. We then headed to the riverfront seating to enjoy our tasty ice cream. Other guests to Dimitri’s were quite entertained viewing Shadow and enjoy their ice cream, lick by lick. It the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of our weekend of Adventures (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream: 4)

September 1, 2018 – Littleton (Includes the Riverwalk Covered Bridge) – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Littleton, New Hampshire. This was my third visit to Littleton, New Hampshire (having been there with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and also with Shadow, Wilma, and My Mom). Littleton is on the northern side of the White Mountains. It is well known for the shopping district, historic buildings, the art scene, and the Riverwalk, (which highlights the Riverwalk Covered Bridge). Littleton is a popular area for tourists, and has even been voted one of the best towns in the USA.

On our first two trips to Littleton we mostly spent our visit on the Riverwalk, and exploring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. The first journey was quite a rainy day adding great stories to our Adventure. We found a little restaurant along the water providing us some cover from the rain, hot drinks, and of course the perfect scenery for some photography. Our second trip was a bit drier, yet cooler. On this journey we especially enjoyed some photography along the rocks. It was also a great location for our afternoon picnic. Both visits came with stunning Fall foliage!

On our most recent trip, just yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted to explore various features of the town, including: the downtown shops, the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, and the Pollyana statue. Our first stop was the Pollyana statue of which I had read about and was therefore very excited to see this landmark. A fun statue, bringing smiles to the faces of visitors. We quickly noted the “Polyanna theme” was plastered around town with paintings on the crosswalk stating “stop look wave”, and banners throughout stating “The GLAD town”. This theme definitely provided an inviting and positive vibe for the community, and its’ visitors.

From there we strolled around the shopping areas. We were soon greeted by a store owner providing treats, and water, and letting us know the shop was “dog friendly”. There were numerous piano’s along the streets, again adding a theme of harmony and cheer. We also viewed numerous, beautiful flower arrangements along the shops, and roads adding a colorful touch to the area.

Our last official stop on this trip was a walk along the Ammonoosuc River, and the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. We savored a nice long walk through this gorgeous, and scenic Bridge. Although soon into the Bridge poor Shadow became nervous, but he made it through victoriously! Relieved to be on solid ground, he quickly forgot all his worries with a dip in the River. The dogs enjoyed exploring the rocks on the River, while I snapped numerous photos. After were finished at the River we decided to take a longer loop back. This provided a picturesque view of the Bridge, from afar. Definitely a beautiful Summer day to be out exploring the town of Littleton (Rating: 4, Bridge: 5).

PS – Don’t you worry we did find ourselves some afternoon ice cream!

September 1, 2018

October 2017

October 2014

August 21, 2018 (Part II) – Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor – Massachusetts

Today, Shadow and I visited Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor in Marshfield, Massachusetts, Part II of our afternoon of Adventures. This was a rare, and unique journey as Wilma spent the day with her puppy friends, while Shadow and I ventured on today’s Adventure. As those of you who follow my blog already know, I am recovering from surgery, and I felt this was a good first step back into our Adventure. Shadow is super well-behaved, and extra calm, while Wilma has constant energy and unexpected wild moments. While I love every moment of Wilma’s entertaining energy, I decided to jump back into our Adventures with my Shadow

Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor has 26 flavors of ice cream, including soft serve and slush. This appears to be a new ice cream shop in the area.

If you have followed our blog you know that we cannot turn down some tasty ice cream on a summer day. Shadow waited eagerly while they prepared his soft serve, and I then decided to order coffee ice cream with whip cream. Shadow gobbled his up quickly, while I savored every bite. A super delicious treat to wrap up our wonderful Adventure in Marshfield, Massachusetts (Rating: 4).