June 8, 2025 – Rhododendron Path – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to the Rhododendron Path at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages.

We had a colorful Adventure to the Rhododendron Path. Due to Wilma’s knee, we have not been walking often but I try to take one extra-long walk each week. Thankfully we spend endless time in our fenced yard, Gus enjoys two days at daycare, and I am always trying to think of fun ideas for home. So, although my guilty conscious kicks in a bit, Gus and I still had a lovely walk at the Rhododendron Path. I actually took photo over about a month’s time, as I wanted to make sure I captured the “Path” in full bloom, which going by weekends I would say it peaked last weekend. Although this was just part of our walk at the Arboretum, it is a specifically labeled section of the Arboretum, gorgeous, and unique, so a good excuse for a long overdue blog.

I have always loved this little area of the Arboretum drawn by the bubbly brook, and scenic wooden bridge. However, when in bloom it’s beyond magnificent with every color of Rhododendron you could imagine, many towering high into the sky. On our walks Gus loved following the trail and checking out what other furry friends had been exploring. He is always alert of those around us so was not as inspired to pose, but I did not spend too much effort on this task. He definitely prefers big sister Wilma by his side but has become much more comfortable, yet always vigilant. The “Path” is a small area, but we spent a good amount of time wandering back and forth through the little trails appreciating the beauty, serenity, and vibrant floral colors. Gus surprisingly enjoyed some sips from the brook and of course some jumps on some rocks. Such a lovely spot to explore! If you are looking for this “Path” at the Arboretum I would highly recommend it (Rating: 5 when in full bloom!)

March 29, 2025-March 30, 2025 – A mini weekend/night in Cape Cod

Wilma, Gus, My Mom, and I spent two days and a night in Cape Cod this weekend. Cape Cod is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeastern corner of Massachusetts. It is a popular summer destination known for the laid-back lifestyle. Cape Cod draws tourists for its beaches, lighthouses, ponds, villages, and the seafood shacks and restaurants.

If you follow my blog you know Wilma will be having knee surgery, so we had some simple and short stops but mostly relaxed at our amazing Airbnb. Our Airbnb was dog friendly (of course) with a fenced in yard, dog toy box, water bowls and lots of little aspects that appreciated our favorite furry friends! Besides that, it was absolutely gorgeous and even had a hot tub. We definitely plan on returning to this special spot!

On our journey our little stops in the Cape, included: Ned’s Point Lighthouse, beaches, Scargo Tower, the Baxter Grist Mill, and Salty the Seahorse. Throughout the weekend, Wilma and Gus especially appreciated comfy naps, and digging in the sand. Wilma enjoyed her rolls and requested regular belly rubs (haha!), while Gus continually sought out cuddles. We have not been out too much due to Wilma’s arthritis, and knee injury, so it was nice to find a simple and refreshing getaway that was just right for ALL. Here is a collage from our weekend:

January 5, 2025 – Riding through History, Lexington’s Horse Art

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Lexington, MA to walk, and photograph Lexington’s Horse Art. This initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s famous ride. The goal of this art is to combine history, art, and engage the community. The four fiberglass horses are positioned throughout Lexington Center and were painted by local artists.

We had a colorful Adventure to Lexington’s Horse Art. We have seen the horses before but never have been able to put a blog together so today was the day! It was a chilly morning, and we were thankful to get an hour of walking in on this winter day. We stopped at each horse, checking out the painting and range of colors. Gus was a little nervous about these large structures, but I convinced him to pose from afar. I have always loved outdoor art, often a dog-friendly activity providing a variety on our walk. Below you will find a little collage of the colorful horses. (This blog will not be rated).

September 12, 2024 – Felix Family Farm – School Street Sunflowers – Massachusetts

Tonight, Wilma, Gus and I Adventured to School Street Sunflowers. School Street Sunflowers is a seasonal event on Felix’s Family Farm in Ipswitch, Massachusetts. Tickets are required for this Sunflower event and can be purchased online for $12. There are over 100,000 sunflowers on this Farm.

We had a sunflower filled adventure to Felix Farm. We arrived, showed our ticket, and parked next to the Field. Upon arrival I found the entrance a bit complicated as the farm animals lined the Field. I therefore decided to slip under the gate as I figured the pups would become quite loud in meeting these new creatures. Luckily this worked well but it was a little busier than we preferred so did not explore the entire garden, however, were still able to view and enjoy endless sunflowers. The sun was setting which made for a lovely setting, but yet probably should have come a little earlier to get some brighter photographs. However, I still snapped away and we wandered around the area. Gus was very curious to watch everyone and everything while Wilma’s highlight was some rolls and laying for a bit in the grass. We did not see any other dogs visiting, but many other people enjoying the lovely location. Such a unique spot! So glad we could visit Felix Farm today (Rating: This blog will not be rated)

September 2, 2024 – Dairy Queen – Ipswitch, Massachusetts

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Dairy Queen in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Dairy Queen is an international franchise that serves items, including ice cream, burgers, and shakes. Some of the Dairy Queens have drive-thru windows but not this particular one.

We had a desert filled Adventure to the Dairy Queen in Ipswich. This has been a busy weekend of projects, which equals endless backyard time for the pups, which they absolutely love! However, we were able to fit in a local walk yesterday and some Northshore coastal time today. I was not planning on going to Dairy Queen but spotted it on the way and figured we would check it out on the way home. This Dairy Queen was a little nicer than many I have visited, although still simple. It was on a main road, but it had some nice foliage and a seating area for guests to enjoy their treats. It is unusual that I go into a location with the pups in the car, but it was cool out and very quiet, so I ordered, came out and then went back in to retrieve our items. The pus got the requested “dog ice cream” (haha!) and I ordered an Orange Julius. Neither complained about their goodies, and slurped every drop as you may expect. I did not love my Orange Julius but glad I could try it as it sounded like something that would be good. Oh well. So glad we could end our half day adventures with a treat (This blog will not be rated).

August 22, 2024 – Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum- Massachusetts

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I had a lovely, long daytrip that included five main adventures. I will be posting two of these (which happen to be the smaller ones) as the others I have blogged about previously.

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus and I Adventured to Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. Ventfort Hall Mansion is a Jacobean-style mansion originally build in 1893. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the Gilded Age. The Mansion also holds special events, including weddings, music events, and ghost tours. It’s listed as a National Register of Historic places and is currently owned by the Ventfort Hall Association.

We had a brick-filled Adventure to Ventfort Hall. I had found Ventfort Hall when I was looking up mansions, as I love exploring the grounds and seeing these diverse structures. I confirmed that dogs were allowed on the grounds, so we decided to make this museum one of our stops. There were few exterior frills to the Mansion, but it was quite large and lovely. In writing this blog I read that there were some repairs needed, and I did observe that it was not in tip-top shape. However, we wandered around the mansion and made sure to find the color, and little features around the grounds. So glad we could check out the grounds of the Ventfort Hall Mansion yesterday (this blog will not be rated).

August 19, 2024 – Mac’s Dairy Farm – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I adventured to Mac’s Dairy Farm in Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Mac’s Dairy Farm sells Richardsons ice cream products. They have been family owned since 1983 and are open year around.

We had a delicious adventure to Mac’s Dairy Farm. I was actually planning on visiting another ice cream stand but literally on the way I realized it was closed on Mondays – oops! However I located Mac’s Dairy Farm which was just right for today’s adventure.

Upon arrival to Mac’s Dairy Farm we found no other guests. The location was very simple, no decorations or floral arrangements but yet plenty of seating available. I ordered a root beer float and two “pup cups”. I was so impressed with the “pup cups”, grand in size, and covered with peanut butter and a treat. I decided to take our treats to a nearby area with grass. The pups enjoyed their ice cream, although Gus often took breaks always thinking about the surrounding environment. I decided to let them finish the last couple bites in the car just as it started to pour. Although the site was quite plain the food was great! So glad we could visit Mac’s Dairy Farm today (Rating: 4).

August 12, 2024 – Kayaking at Dunn State Park – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to Dunn State Park in Gardner, Massachusetts for some kayaking. Dunn State Park is a 132-acre park that surrounds a 20-acre pond. It is popular for swimming, hiking, fishing, and boating. There is a 1.3 loop trail around the pond, and other trails throughout.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Dunn State Park. I have never been kayaking at this park but often visited it with Shadow and Buster as we lived closer to the area years ago. It is a small but lovely park and we used to love taking several loops around the pond. This was Gus’ first Adventure to Dunn State Park and we decided to focus on kayaking today.

We arrived at about 8:30 am and the park was almost empty. We were able to drive down to the pond to launch, park, and then walk back to the kayak to start our Adventure. For some reason Gus appeared nervous upon arrival but soon after we began paddling, he became at ease. It was a beautiful day, probably only about 70 when we arrived. We went around the pond trying to find different colors and textures along the route. On this Adventure we found yellow and white lilies, endless lily pads, small purple flowers, and spotted a turtle from afar. It was just what we needed to start a gorgeous day. There was one little island, but no easy way to land the kayak so I decided to skip that idea and make it a day in the boat. Gus appeared to enjoy the smells and let out a couple big yawns – just adorable. It was one of those days the sun is just absolutely refreshing. We will have to be back for a walk around the pond next time (Rating: 4).

July 13, 2024 – Concord River (Bedford) – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to the Bedford section of the Concord River, while Wilma vacationed at the Grandma and Grandpa spa! The Concord River is an approximately 16 mile River, a branch of the Merrimack River. It played part in the American Revolution, being part of one of the battles. It also was included in the writings of well-known author Henry David Thoreau.

We had a sun filled Adventure to the Concord River. I was hoping to Adventure to Ashland State Park, however the bacteria level was high, so decided to head to the Concord River. We parked at the Boat Launch on Carlisle Road in Bedford. I was pleased to find endless parking, and a large area for launching. We quickly launched and headed off down the river, paddling with the current. It was very sunny, but there was a nice breeze, and I did not feel overly hot, nor did I notice Gus did. There was not too much to see, but here and there we saw some birds, lily pads, and lots of bright green vegetation along the river. Gus appeared to enjoy the scenery and was relaxed and calm.

After paddling for a bit we then turned around and headed against the current. Although it was not difficult to paddle, I was reminded of one of the reasons I am more of a lake girl – I am a lazy paddler (haha). Any time I stopped paddling I would start going in slow circles. However, I guess it was good for me to not be so sloth-like and row steadily. I had a couple moments of worry when there were motorboats, and a jet ski, but thankfully the waves did not overtake us, just a bit of bobbing.

One of my favorite parts was the bridge, while I also enjoyed finding a fearless frog, and the wonderful company of sweet Gus! So glad we finally got out on the kayak again today, long overdue (Rating: this blog will not be rated).

July 6, 2024 – Captain Cleverly’s Park – Massachusetts

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Captain Cleverly’s Park in Hull, Massachusetts. Captain Cleverly Park is a small grassy park with a short path, benches, a flag, small garden, and views of the Bay. Although I did not see a formal label, the GPS identified this location.

We had a breezy Adventure to Captain Cleverly’s Park. The park was extra tiny but located in the lovely town of Hull. We parked nearby and explored the little park. There were others walking by, but no one else in the actual park. Parallel to the park was a beach area, and several boats bobbing in the choppy waters. Although the weather was not ideal for photographs, the clouds, and coastal breeze created the perfect temperature for this adventure. We took our time and appreciated the smells and sites of the coast. I debated blogging about this park due to the darkness and the size of the park, but why not. So glad we could get out to the coast (Rating: 3).

The other adventures we had today were no named areas, so this will be our only “park” blog for today.