December 26, 2019 – Long Sand Beach – Maine

Yesterday Shadow and I took an Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. Long Sand Beach is a less then two mile sandy shoreline that includes some rocky areas and tidal pools. The beach is located along Route 1A. It is a popular tourist spot in the summer months.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. I decided to take a solo Adventure with Shadow. Wilma sometime struggles with off-leash locations as she does not appreciate being charged by off-leash dogs, while on leash. I often am disappointed to find that the majority of the off-leash dogs we encounter are not under voice control, and as you might guess this can be unpredictable. And although I might be an overprotective dog Mom, I do not feel Wilma is quite ready to be off-leash, still young and quite driven by her adorable hound nose. So…having some extra days off I felt this would be a good opportunity to take Shadow on a journey of his own, my beach-loving, extra-well behaved boy. Although feeling a bit guilty I decided to head off to Long Sand Beach with Shadow.

We arrived at Long Sand Beach finding it just below the main road. There were other visitors scattered throughout the beach, many dogs in tow. Shadow was absolutely thrilled to be at the beach. We headed straight to the water and began walking along the shore, appreciating the sun, and the sounds of the surf. I spotted Nubble Lighthouse off in the distance, although a bit too far off to photograph with my cell phone. Shadow was excited to meet all dogs in sight, quickly making best buds with an adorable Vizsla. I often heard comments about how “big” Shadow was but fellow walkers quickly noted his calm and friendly demeanor. It was so fun to see him in this environment as we have not recently encountered new friends. Shadow enjoyed smelling, finding some lobster traps, shells, and numerous smells unknown to my eyes. Shadow loved wading in the water often trotting enthusiastically. It was clear that the tide was going out the beach growing quickly as we strolled along. It was a gorgeous afternoon filled with many smiles. And although the beach was simple, and somewhat unappealing the memories and moments were absolutely perfect. So glad we could enjoy a relaxing beach Adventure today (Rating: Beach: 3, Adventure: Priceless)

Throwback Adventure – Fisherman’s Walk – Maine

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!

We have had several Adventures to Fisherman’s Walk over the past five years. Fisherman’s Walk is a paved and gravel trail that parallels the York River in York, Maine. The path begins near the Wiggly Bridge, and ends at Harbor Beach. It is broken by streets at some locations and is less then two miles round-trip.

We have enjoyed all of our Adventures to Fisherman’s Walk in the scenic town of York. I always smile when I can share Adventure that ALL of my pups had the opportunity to visit, and Fisherman’s Walk is one of those Adventures. The Fisherman’s Walk is a lovely coastal stroll, quiet, and peaceful. We enjoyed viewing attractive boats, scenic docks, and of course you cannot go wrong with a trek along the coast. Great memories of our coastal time at the Fisherman’s Walk. See below for a mix of photographs from our various visits (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated)

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 video from our sunset visit to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park in Maine. We had a spectacular Adventure to Cadillac Mountain last April, one of the most beautiful spots in New England. We actually visited twice on this trip, as I could not resist heading back to catch the sunset at this gorgeous location. I love this video as it really looks like Shadow and Wilma are watching the sunset, and appreciating the beauty. Definitely a must-see Mountain for those who Adventure to Maine. If you want to read more about our Adventures to Cadillac Mountain you can type in “Cadillac Mountain” in the search box to read about our Adventures (there are actually two posts, one on our Adventure with Shadow and Buster – on a very foggy day, and one on our Adventure with Shadow and Wilma – on a clear day). Enjoy!

Throwback Adventure – Northeast Harbor – Maine

In April 2015 Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Northeast Harbor, a municipality in the southern portion of Mount Desert Island, Maine. Northeast Harbor is known to be an affluent and less traveled location in Acadia. The Harbor’s main feature is the marina, while there are also restaurants and boutiques.

We had a scenic Adventure to Northeast Harbor back on a foggy April day. In preparing this blog I came to the conclusion that we visited the marina section of the Harbor as we did not recall spotting any shops, nor did we eat at an restaurants in the Harbor town. The marina was gorgeous, filled with boats of all shapes and sizes. The shores were lined with Solidago flowers framing the perfect coastal photographs. If my memory is correct we mostly spent our time in the Harbor as we awaited our journey to Cranberry Island (a blog you can search for in the “search box” to read more about). Quite a picturesque marina. We will definitely have to be back to Northeast Harbor to explore every inch of this quaint little town (Throwback blogs will not always be rated).

October 5, 2019 – Goose Rock Beach – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Goose Rock Beach in Kennebunkport, Maine. Goose Rock Beach is located in a neighborhood area, which is especially populated in summer months. Goose Rock Beach has approximately three miles of shoreline, provides views of several islands, and is bordered by tidal rivers. There is limited parking spots, and passes are required seasonally.

We had a spectacular Adventure to Goose Rock Beach. I decided to get up at four o’clock in the morning to explore a new beach and to appreciate the sunrise. Goose Rock Beach sure did not disappoint! We parked in front of several homes, the beach area bordered by greenery. I immediately heard the waves, and soon found a path to the gorgeous sandy beach. It was just lovely, sunrise in process, and few people in sight. Immediately we were energized, Shadow running, Wilma bounding. We walked down the beach exploring the tidal areas, found some lovely shells, and of course waded into the sea. We went to the end of one side where we found the tidal River entering the ocean, before turning around and exploring in the opposite direction. We caught a glimpse of an island, observed several boats floating in the water, and noted some kayaks and chairs scattered on the beach. The beach was pristine, peaceful, and quite therapeutic.

We spent about two hours walking, running, digging, and dipping. Shadow went deep into the ocean, the water quite shallow while Wilma especially enjoyed some chaotic digging. Both Shadow and Wilma took turns engaging the other in energetic play, just so sweet! As time went on we saw more people, most with furry friends. It was great to see that almost all of them had their dogs under control, and many quite friendly. I am guessing most were locals, appreciating this serene locale. The perfect, extra-early morning Adventure today (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Peaks Island – Maine

In September 2013 Shadow, Buster, My Mom and I Adventured to Peak’s Island in the Casco Bay of Maine. Peak’s Island is only accessible by ferry, and is popular for kayaking, swimming, the Fifth Maine Regiment Museum, and a small shopping and restaurant area along the harbor. The Island has approximately 1,000 residents, which doubles in the summer months.

We had a wonderful Adventure to Peak’s Island. I was beyond entertained by the fact that Shadow and Buster received their own ferry tickets, and were about to head out on a boat Adventure. Luckily they did well on the ride, and although Shadow appeared a bit uneasy at first he settled down and napped under the staircase. The Island was simple, and peaceful. I remember beautiful flowers, rustic fencing, rocky shores and an extra warm day. We enjoyed walking around and appreciated the new experiences. I had some additional photographs that I was not sure if they were from Peak’s Island so decided to only post those photographs I knew were from the Island. We were glad to experience Peak’s Island (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

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 14, 2019 -Ellis Park/Ellis Short Sands Park – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Ellis Park in York Beach, Maine. Ellis Park is adjacent to Short Sands Beach. It contains a basketball court, a playground, and is a popular location for summer concerts, and locals. The Park is owned by the Town of York and managed by the Trustees.

We had a short Adventure to the Ellis Shorts Sands’ Park on a dark and dreary day. I had noticed the Park in the past but do not believe we ever have explored it. There was a fee to park based on the expected time. The word “Park” did not seem to fit the location as it was really just a big square with a gazebo in the center, appearing more like a town common. However, we sauntered around the park as I worked hard to notice little details of appreciation. Shadow and Wilma relished their happy grass rolls, and as always were enthused to explore a new place, never a complaints from these amazing two! There were benches around the park, and flowers, many past season. My favorite part of the Ellis Short Sands Park was walking above the beach. The tide was in, and the waves a rough, a beautiful scene. I was disappointed that dogs were not allowed on the beach, but was pleased we could walk nearby. There were few people on the beach on this windy and drizzly day. Although I was quite unimpressed with this Park, the coastal border made it just right (Rating: 3).

September 14, 2019 – Old York Historical Society Buildings – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Old York Museum Center and surrounding historical buildings in York, Maine. This early English settlement was one of the first colonies. The buildings are open to the public and include lovely architecture, artwork, and artifacts. There are tours, programs and events, and nine historic buildings to explore.

We had a simple Adventure to the Old York Historical Society Buildings on a dreary, dark day. I debated writing and posting this blog as dogs were not allowed inside the building, which only provided a limited visit. However, it a great historic location which others may not know about so here I go….

We began our Adventure at the Museum Center. From the door of the Center we began our journey hopping from building to building. The structures appeared historic, yet modern and unique. Without a map we walked from building to building attempting not to miss one. We also spotted a graveyard in the middle of our walk around the property. Our Adventure to the Old Historical Society Buildings was short as we could only walk around and near them, and besides the actual buildings there were very few outdoor artifacts. Still Glad we were able to explore this location, something many might not expect to find in coastal Maine (This location will not be rated as the site was not thoroughly explored).

April 29, 2019 – Owls Head State Park and Owls Head Light – Maine

Although my goal is to post our Adventures the same day, or following day, I failed to reach that goal for this blog. However, I still am excited to share this Adventure.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Owls Head State Park, which hosts the Owls Head Lighthouse in Owls Head, Maine. The Lighthouse was built in 1825 is located high above the Penobscot Bay. There are two beaches in the Park, one with views of the Bay, and the other with views of Rockland.

We had a scenic Adventure to Owls Head State Park and the Owls Head Lighthouse on a beautiful sunny day. This was our last official Adventure of our weekend in Maine. Upon arrival we wandered over to the picnic area to find lovely views framed by a narrow beach. We decided to wander down the path to the right to the Owls Head Lighthouse. It was a tranquil spot, with several look-outs along the way. It did not take long to arrive at the Lighthouse. We were delighted to have the area all to ourselves slowly weaving up the ramp, and stairs to arrive directly underneath the Lighthouse. Owls Lighthouse is a unique lighthouse area providing sweeping views. After spending some time enjoy the picturesque location we headed back to the picnic area.

From there we ventured down the trail to the left, not quite sure what to expect. Another short trail which ended at a small beach. The beach was quite rocky, but provided some sand areas in between the numerous rocks. There were small cliff-like rocks adorned with evergreens. After exploring for a bit we sat and enjoyed the ocean breeze, Shadow rolling, and napping, while Wilma took part in some digging fun. A wonderful place to relax on a gorgeous day.

Our last stop at the Park was the Beach area, immediately adjacent to the parking lot. Yet another rocky beach making for some unpredictable footing. However that did not stop us from strolling around briefly to survey the area, and snap some photographs. Such a lovely Park, and Lighthouse in Owls Head. We are so glad we could explore this special area on our Adventure (Rating: 4).