March 16, 2019 – Fort William Henry – Maine

Yesterday we Adventured to the Fort William Henry in Bristol, Maine. The Fort was built in 1692 but was later destroyed by the Siege of Pemaquid. The Fort was later reconstructed in 1908. The three fortifications played an important role in protecting New England frontier from attacks from the French and the Wabanaki Indians.

We had a spontaneous Adventure to Fort William Henry, part of the Pemaquid State Historic Site. I found this Fort, by merely following a sign along our route. We were greeted by a very, muddy road, before arriving near the Fort. We were excited to see a simple, but unique structure in Fort William Henry. Our short walk took us to the foot of this lovely, circular building, with remnants of a Fort next door. There were no signs or information, but my guess was this could have been part of the original Fort. We rambled around the structure and over to the road below, sure to check out the water view below. The sun was bright, and beginning to set, making for some challenging photography, but yet beautiful site. It was fun to find the Fort William Henry without even planning a thing (Rating: 4).

March 16, 2019 – Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park – Maine

Yesterday we Adventured to Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, Maine. The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park is located at Pemaquid Neck. It was built in 1827 but later rebuilt in 1935, reportedly due to poor construction. The official Park is open from May through October and includes: an art gallery, fisherman’s museum, an art gallery, and a learning center.

We had a late day Adventure to the stunning Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park. As usual, we were glad to visit in off-season, creating a peaceful scene, absent from the bustle of tourists. The Pemaquid Lighthouse was quite picturesque, offering up close and personal views. We started our visit exploring the Lighthouse, scenic benches along the way. As we sauntered past the lighthouse we quickly were drawn to the rocky shores, and crashing waves. We climbed a bit on the rocks, taking in yet another wonderful Maine coastline. There were several other small structures, and benches for picnicking under some trees. It was a small area, so we made sure to check out each spot, before looping back to the lighthouse. Shadow enjoyed some happy rolls, while I then entertained myself with many photos. My favorite you will see first, adorable Shadow and Wilma, ears a blowing! Definitely a wonderful visit to Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park (Rating: 4).

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March 16, 2019 – Popham Beach State Park – Maine

Yesterday we had a spectacular Adventure to the Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg, Maine. Popham Beach State Park is approximately 605 acres in size and is one of the busiest Parks in Maine. Views from the Beach include: Fox and Wood Islands, and the Pond Island and Sequin Island lighthouses. The Park is bordered by the Kennebec and Morse Rivers. The Beach is popular for bird watching, horseback riding, fishing, and swimming. There is a fee to enter the Park.

We had an incredible visit to Popham Beach State Park. We entered the Park through a scenic path surrounded by trees, and after a short stroll arrived at the edge of the Beach. It was a mouth-dropping moment as I could not believe the unique, and gorgeous scenery before my eyes. It was almost like we had stepped into a dessert, in a far off land, the wind creating patterns across the sand. Much of the Beach was flat, with some rocks to climb and Islands off into the water. I was so awed by this location that I think I stared for a bit before eventually heading toward the water. The air was fresh, and the water picturesque in all shades of blues. Surprisingly the strong wind was not cold, but just perfect, creating four adorable floating ears. We enjoyed some horses galloping along, quite picturesque on the smooth sand.

After wandering along the water for a bit we decided to explore the large rocky area, my guess was this could have been Fox Island. I was not sure how this would work as Shadow is not too steady, or inspired by rock climbing, however was pleased to find flat areas to climb. There were tidal pools with shells, and lobster traps scattered along the rocky area. We sauntered over to the opposite side of the “Island” the waves crashing into the side, as the wind cooled our cheeks. It was an inspiring little climb with lots of sensory pleasing moments.

I was excited to blog about this location, but yet know my description, nor my pictures will do it justice. Hopefully the videos may add a better visual for my followers, but yet you really MUST plan a visit. Without hesitation I can say that Popham State Beach Park is one of the most beautiful Beaches I have seen on the New England shores. I do not remember the last time I gave our Adventure a 5, and although my company is always a perfect 5, I am happy to say it was an easy rating for this Beach. I look forward to being back to Popham State Beach many times again in the future (Rating: 5).

March 16, 2019 – Fort Popham State Historic Site – Maine

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Popham State Historic Site in Phippsburg, Maine. The Fort is from the Civil war times, and is located along the Kennec River. The Fort’s construction began in 1962, but was never completed. It was named after George Popham, leader of the Popham Colony.

We had a historic Adventure to the Fort Popham State Historic Park, on a gorgeous, and windy winter day. We had difficulty finding parking, but after looping around numerous times we found an empty spot. The Fort was located at a wonderful location on the River. There were benches along the way, providing places to relax and take in the scenery. The Fort was built of granite and had some yellow coloring, although not sure if this was from the weather, it nevertheless added some texture and color to the Fort. We walked around checking out the doors, crannies and main area of the Fort. Dogs were not allowed inside the Fort, although not sure if it was open anyways. Shadow and Wilma appeared curious of this spot too, Wilma going in the doors, while Shadow peered through the gate to check out the Fort. It was really a spectacular site (Rating: 4).

March 16, 2019 – Wells Beach – Maine

Today we Adventured to Wells Beach in Wells, Maine. Wells Beach is one of the largest sandy beaches in Maine, offering about seven miles of sandy shores.

We had a perfect sky-day on our Adventure to Wells Beach. I was so pleased to start our weekend of Adventures with a gorgeous cloud filled and sunny day. This made the beach just perfect for photography, and a walk along the shore. The tide appeared to be in, making a small area of sand, much of which was covered by rocks. Both Shadow and Wilma were thrilled to be at the beach, running, and playing. I was impressed that Wilma seemed more comfortable with the water, sauntering along when the tide came in. We walked and walked, snapping too many photographs as always. The only thing that I did not prefer was that when looking away from the water it appeared to be very touristy, and commercial, houses and hotels lining the beach. However being off-season we were lucky to have a quiet and peaceful day at Wells Beach. Such a spectacular way to start our weekend in Maine (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse – 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!

Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I visited the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse in August of 2015. The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a Lighthouse located in the Acadia National Park in Tremont, Maine. It was built in 1858, is 56 feet in height, and is made of brick. It is currently an active lighthouse.

We had a misty Adventure to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, on a hair-curling kind of day. It was humid and foggy, the apparent theme of this Maine adventure. Upon arrival we started on the left side path that appeared to go into the tree canopy. We followed the disney-like stairway into the beautiful cliffside below. The rocks and views of the Blue Hill Bay were spectacular, even revealing a view of the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse from afar. After enjoying some posing and great spots along the rocks we headed back up the stairs to the Lighthouse trail.

We arrived to the Lighthouse with a crowd of others, causing us to spend some time waiting for some tourist free photography. The shoreline was rocky, perfectly brown in color. I do not recall all the little details of the spot, but definitely a special visit with the perfect company. I think it is likely that we will should visit again in the future. Maybe the sun will make an appearance next time!

February 18, 2019 – Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 18, 2019 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in Portland, Maine. The Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is a working lighthouse located along a breakwater in the Casco Bay. It was built in 1897, while improvements and updates have been made since that time. It is open to the public for tours.

We had a chilly, yet spectacular Adventure to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). I was excited to find a lighthouse that I had not yet visited, and that also provided a close-up view. Being off-season we were lucky to have the entire site to ourselves. We began our Adventure cautiously as the paths were again ice covered, and quite slippery. There were benches along the water, the view of the Lighthouse off in the distance. We walked toward the breakwater, however my Mom soon decided to head back to the car to warm-up.

Upon starting on the breakwater I soon realized that Shadow was not feeling inspired by the rocks, and slight spaces between them. We headed back to the car and my Mom agreed to sit in the warm car with Shadow while myself and my rock-loving Wilma hustled back to the breakwater eager for our close-up view. Wilma was thrilled for some rock jumping. It was a bit frigid, although Wilma appeared to keep warm from her athletic jumps. Luckily the rocks were not icy, but had some scenic snow here and there, adding a picturesque scene for photographs. We carefully planned our jumps, some requiring steps, while others leaps as we hustled down the embankment.

It was thrilling to arrive at the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, a lovely structure. We did not spend much time at the end, as we knew Shadow and My Mom were waiting for our return. However, it was definitely worth this short visit.

I love an Adventure that is not simple, but yet requires some work to arrive at the final destination Definitely a wonderful Adventure – Thanks to Mom for allowing us to partake in this Adventure, while providing Shadow comfort and warmth (Rating: 5).

February 18, 2019 – Two Lights State Park – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 18, 2019 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Two Lights State Park is a 41 acre Park that provides stunning coastal views of the Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike the name suggests there are no lighthouses directly in the Park, however the Park obtained its name from the nearby “twin” Lighthouses. Two Light State Park is well known for the spectacular rocky shores, and is popular for picnicking and strolls along the shoreline trails.

We have enjoyed three separate Adventures to the Two Lights State Park. Two Lights State Park has a special place in our hearts as it was the first stop my Mom and I made when we began our outdoor getaways with the dogs. Our first visit occurred with Buster and Shadow on a very rainy September day. However we still carried on, getting soaked along the way. We took our first selfie EVER, the beginning of a new tradition which would capture memories, and landmarks throughout our future journeys. On this visit I remember especially enjoying the shoreline trail, the rocky shores, beautiful flowers, and of course the overall experience and memories made.

On February 18, 2019 we had our third Adventure to Two Lights State Park on a super-cold day. We debated a visit due to the frigid weather but were eager to check out the location in the snow. It was lovely walking around in the snow, on as we viewed the coastal scenes. I slipped several times, but officially managed to stay on my feet. We especially enjoyed some snow covered steps along the trails, and the snow covered rocky shores. This was our second visit during the month of February with Shadow and Wilma, however the first in the snow. Definitely an appealing oceanfront Adventure to the Two Lights State Park (Rating: 4).

February 17, 2019 – Wiggly Bridge – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 17, 2019 we Adventured to the Wiggly Bridge in York, Maine. The Wiggly Bridge is a suspended bridge, that as titled, wiggles” as you walk across. It was built in the 1930s and stretches over the tidal pool that flows from Barrell Mill Pond to the York River. It is known as the smallest suspension bridge in the world, just seventy five feet in length.

Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I had a fun Adventure to the Wiggly Bridge, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). This was at least the third time we have visited, although it was the first time for my Mom. Our stroll to the Bridge started on a short man-made causeway that leads you to this landmark. The sun was shining along the water, sparkling from the glare. The Bridge highlighted by green, adding the perfect feature to the coastal spot. We snapped some photographs, and played with the shadows below.

On this visit I decided not to venture across the Bridge with Shadow and Wilma as last time, we had a little problem. On that visit BOTH of them became very concerned about the “wiggles”, causing us to almost remain permanently on the other side of the Bridge. It is a humorous story that I have fond memories of, even though we caused quite a scene. The Wiggly Bridge is a wonderful landmark to visit, and although I initially found it by accident, I now know it is a famous Bridge, merely due to the small size. Definitely a great stop that we have enjoyed on several of our Adventures. I found a couple photos from our past trips which I have added to our collage below. I was disappointed not to have any photographs of Buster from our first visit, however treasure an Adventure where all three of my pups had an opportunity to visit (Rating: 4).

February 17, 2019 – Fort McClary Historic Site – Maine

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited the Fort McClary Historic Site in Kittery, Maine. This is the second, or maybe third time we have been to this Fort. Fort McClary is located along the Piscataqua River. It was part of five significant wars, and is one of Maine’s most important historic Forts, serving as protection for more then 275 years.

We had a simple, but historic visit to the Fort McClary Historic Fort yesterday, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). We had visited Fort McClary previously with Shadow and Buster in October 2014 so a bit chillier on this February winter day. The gates were closed, and the grounds icy so we cautiously approached the Fort. We ventured up to the Fort, and I ver to the water’s edge, stopping at various landmarks along the way. As you gaze across the River you can see the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse from a far. There were some historic write-ups along the way, while various buildings and locations were identified by titles. and dates. Shadow enjoyed some grassy rolls, while Wilma hopped from various cement blocks watching other visiting dogs from afar. Wilma often appeared to be interested in the history, peering into doors, and hoping onto windows, always creating a comical laugh on our Adventures.

While I sometimes wish I was more a history buff, I find myself more drawn to the structures, views, moments, and photography opportunities along the way. Although I found Fort McClary simple compared to many I have visited, it was quite rich in history. I was disappointed to not find any great photos of Buster from our first visit, but have mixed photographs from the two visits into one collage below (Rating: 3).