August 15, 2026 – Sunset Kayak – Long Lake, Massachusetts

Yesterday Gus and I adventured to Long Lake in Littleton, Massachusetts for a sunset kayak! Long Lake is a 113 acre Great Pond with a depth between 8-22 feet. There is a sandy beach, conservation trails around part of the lake and a boat launch next to the beach. Payment is required during in-season dates and hours.

We had a peaceful adventure to Long Lake. I have blogged about an adventure to Long Lake previously but figured a sunset paddle was a good excuse for a new blog. We began by loading up the kayak next to a busy beach. I was quite proud of Gus who did not seem phased by the chaos. Off we floated for our lazy ride!

Throughout our paddle we appreciated the colors from the sunset and the abundant lily pads covered with flowers. We spent some time in the middle of the lily pads, taking in the sensory experience, and as per usual Gus appeared, relaxed and observant. Although the sounds from the beach echoed over the water it was quite serene.

We got to Long Lake on the later side so it was short kayak evening. Upon heading toward the land Gus became quite nervous of all the activity. We therefore floated a little longer before docking. So thankful to I get out on a long over due sunset kayak ride!

August 4, 2026 – Rota Spring Farm Homemade Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Rota Spring Farm Ice Cream in Sterling, Massachusetts, a third-generation dairy farm. Rota Springs sells homemade ice cream, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables and other specialty items at their farm store. They also have goats that visitors can pet and feed.

We had a tasty adventure to Rota Spring Farm Ice Cream. We have had several ice cream adventures this summer, but this was our first new vendor. Upon arrival we found a simple location with plenty of seating. I waited until there were no other guests in line to approach the window. I ordered two “pup cups”, and a root beer float. I then decided to go to the opposite, and quiet end of the parking lot for Wilma and Gus to enjoy their treats with no distractions. Wilma inhaled her “pup cup” quickly, while Gus preferred to survey the scene versus enjoy his treat.

Afterwards we walked around the parking lot a bit to check out some lilies and snap some photographs. I would have loved to see the goats but did not think that would be ideal with my two furry friends. Upon returning to the car, it was time for me to sip on my root beer float. My root beer float had minimal ice cream; however, you really cannot go wrong with this creamy treat. I decided to pack Gus’ for our trip home to refreeze for another day. So glad we could indulge in a new ice cream experience today (this blog will not be rated).

First Kayak of the Year!

Today Gus and I adventured on our first kayaking trip of the year! I always feel bad leaving Wilma, but she would never get in a kayak and does not like the warm weather. Gus and I enjoyed this at one of my favorite parks – Hopkinton State Park, in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. The sun came in and out, but it was one of the warmer days we have had which was nice. It was very quiet on the water; I think we only saw one other boat. Gus was relaxed as can be enjoying this beautiful day. At one point he turned around and just wanted to cuddle – he is the sweetest. Besides paddling around the reservoir, we checked out one of our favorite islands, walking around, up and checking out this fun spot. It was a great way to start the day! Look forward to more kayaking adventures as the weather continue to improve.

February 16, 2026 – Day Trip to Cape Cod

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. 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.

We had a relaxing Adventure to Cape Cod today. Although my intention was to stay overnight, these plans did not work out as I hoped so we settled for a daytrip. A good portion of our day was dark but was thrilled to see the some come out for the later portion of the day. Our stops included: Yarmouth, Eastham, Provincetown, and pup cups in Bourne (haha!). Our favorite stops were the Nauset Lighthouse and Coast Guard Beach both located in Eastham, Massachusetts. However, Coast Guard Beach was definitely the highlight of the day. It is gorgeous with the dunes lining the beach, and the sounds of the roaring sea to the opposite. We strolled and explored enjoying the therapeutic scene. Gus was especially thrilled with digging, while Wilma was in search for the best smell. It was the perfect stop to a lovely day. Below you will see some of the highlights of the day, much of which were from Coast Guard Beach when the sun came out (this blog will not be rated).

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).