September 12, 2020 – Sandwich Recreation Area – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Sandwich Recreation Area in Sandwich, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. The Sandwich Recreation Area is part of the Cape Cod Canal providing one of the access points on the canal. The Area is popular for walking, fishing, and picnicking. It also contains the official Visitor Center for the Cape Cod Canal.

We had a sun-rising Adventure to the Sandwich Recreation Area, our first Adventure of many today. I often wonder why I arise at a ridiculous hour for a sunrise but instantly upon arrival I am reminded the reason for this decision. We arrived to brilliant clouds and a gorgeous scene. We began walking down the path along the Canal finding numerous fisherman lining the rocks. It was a nice cool morning but not too cold, really just perfect. We followed the sun and eventually arrived at a long jetty and a beach. I was thrilled as I did not know there was an official beach at this location, and shocked to find no other beach guests. We walked back and forth along the shore, discovered several trails nearby, and of course took some time to explore the jetty. Wilma was quite enthused by the scene, new smells, and the happiness the coast sends to all. We spent our time exploring and I took endless photographs of the lovely sky. Such a tranquil morning. We then returned down the trail and explored the other section of this Area, again lined with fishermen. A perfect way to start our day (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Upper Sheffield Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

I believe today is the first week in just over two years of the blog that I forgot to post by Thursday Throwback blog! I was so disappointed in myself but after a busy week with lots on my mind that is the truth. So cheers to my first Throwback Friday blog (haha!) Here it is…

I have decided to return to posting new “Throwback Adventures” after taking time to re-post some of my favorites with Shadow. This has been a therapeutic process for me to share. We are devastated that both Shadow and Buster have both passed, but find peace knowing we can continue to remember them through our “Throwback Adventures”. They were amazing boys and are forever in our hearts.

The Upper Sheffield Covered Bridge, also referred to as the Old Covered Bridge is located in Sheffield, Massachusetts. It was originally built between 1832-1854 but later reconstructed in 1999 after a fire destroyed it in 1994. The Upper Sheffield Covered Bridge for pedestrians only and traverses the Housatonic River.

In May 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to the Upper Sheffield Covered Bridge on a full day of memorable Adventures. I loved the unusual blue color of the bridge, and it was fun to explore it while walking slowly through. It is amazing to see how many photos I used to take versus now as I was only able to locate two these photographs. Shadow looks so unenthusiastic in this snapshot but I can promise you he had a wonderful day! I look forward to returning in the future and taking endless photographs of this lovely bridge (Rating: Throwback Ratings will not always be rated)

August 30, 2020 – New Bedford, Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to New Bedford, Massachusetts. New Bedford is a city located in Southern Massachusetts. It is one of the bigger cities in the state. It if often referred to as “The Whaling City” as in the 19th Century it was one of the most important whaling ports in the world.

We had an exercise filled Adventure to New Bedford walking approximately five hours during our day trip. Our Adventures today included: Clarks Point Lighthouse, Butler Flats Lighthouse, Fort Taber Park, Palmer Island, Palmer Island Lighthouse, Harborwalk, Covewalk, East Beach, Saulnier Memorial Bike Trail, and downtown New Bedford. I have been to almost all of these locations before but I was eager to return and especially excited to see Palmer Lighthouse. Although unfortunately New Bedford is far from the cleanest place, it is less crowded then many others, and it houses a variety of attractions.

I was quite pleased to start a full day of Adventures, as having returned to work last Monday we were ready for a long day of Adventures. The sky was spectacular, and the weather was reasonable, even finding a strong breeze in some locations. Our Adventures centered around the bike trail and walkways, with the majority of our stops along these routes. The walkways were wonderful, unique in their own way, and provided consistent views over the water, including views of Clarks Cove, New Bedford Harbor, and Buzzards Bay. It is always energizing going on a long walk when you have coastal views. We stopped at several beaches along the route, including East Beach and other sandy areas with no name. We walked along the breakwaters and I encouraged Wilma to “swim” although was pleased when she decided to wade. Wilma briefly enjoyed some digging and we sat in the sand for a short time, savoring the atmosphere. The beaches were packed with shells, actually deep in some areas. There were no sign indicating that dogs were not allowed so we assumed they were permitted.

We of course loved Fort Taber Park, definitely one of our favorite Forts in New England. Due to COVID only New Bedford residents are allowed to park at the Fort, but we were lucky to find parking, although some distance away. The Fort is grand, and has paved trails weaving around it. There are other historic ruins nearby that you can climb and view the Fort from other angles. I think I have been there three times and it never gets old.

As you may be aware, New Bedford is home to three lighthouses. Butler Flats Lighthouse is far off the shore, so was not easy to capture as I do not have a complex zoom. However it does not seem as far as you are walking. An unusual lighthouse is the Clarks Point Lighthouse which is found on top of the Fort. The first time I went there I do not even think I realized that was the case. Again hard to capture being so high above. The last lighthouse we visited was the Palmer Lighthouse, my favorite one in New Bedford. Visiting Palmer Lighthouse is also an Adventure as you must time it with the low tide so you can walk to Palmer Island. And we did!! We walked over to the Island and explored the entire Island, including the spectacular Palmer Island Lighthouse. I still was a little worried about the tide so I did not spend quite as much time as preferred, however I still tried to be relaxed and allow Wilma to take in the smells, and enjoy some wading.

Our last stop was the downtown area and the fisher’s coast. Much of the downtown area has cobblestone, adding quite the charm. One thing I appreciate about New Bedford is the arts and culture, highlighted by many murals throughout the city. And of course who does not like boats, scenic, and colorful. These last stops were definitely a good way to end our day. Below you will find a photograph collage summarizing our day. So glad to have a long day filled of walking (Rating: 4).

August 22, 2020 – Nathaniel Allen Recreation Area (NARA Park) – Massachusetts

**Please note my blog crashed for several days but thankfully it is up and running – you therefore may have missed the last post if you area regular follower, and may not have been able to open it in general – I am relieved that everything is back on track**

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to Nathaniel Allen Recreation Area (NARA Park) in Acton, Massachusetts. NARA Park is located on a pond, and is popular for fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The Park has an amphitheater for summer concerts. The walking trail intersects with the Bruce Freeman Trail.

Wilma and I had a surprising Adventure to NARA Park, locating it completely by accident. We were walking on the Bruce Freeman Trail and were traversing a part just past where we had walked before and suddenly there was NARA Park. Such a pleasant surprise! Upon arrival we found the beautiful NARA pond, with gorgeous reflections of the clouds shimmering on the water. We began wandering down a trail finding children fishing. Soon we located an area with lovely water lilies, quite entertained by the frog panic as we explored the shore. Wilma found a log to climb, savored the smells, and was energized by the hopping frogs. From there we headed on the boardwalk and around the path. There were beautiful wild flowers, and numerous locations to enter the water. We soon walked by the beach, and guests picnicking before arriving at the main building. We met several people working at this location. They were so friendly and we enjoyed chatting for awhile, Wilma cherishing every bit of attention and a long belly rub. From there we continued on the path before returning to Bruce Freeman Trail. Since we found this lovely location by chance we did not have a map, but I believe we explored the majority of this location. It has been a long time since we found something accidentally and it is these simple days that make my day. Such a wonderful Adventure to the lovely NARA Park (Rating: 4).

August 20, 2020 – Eustis Estate Museum – Massachusetts

On Thursday Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Eustis Estate Museum in Milton, Massachusetts. The Eustis Estate was built in 1878 and contains 80 acres, including the home designed by William Ralph Emerson. The home was owned by William Ellery Channing Eustis, and remained in the family until 2012 when it was sold to Historic New England. The Eustis Estate offers tours for a fee.

We had a lovely Adventure to the Eustis Estate Museum. I was looking forward to visiting a new local estate and had emailed the Estate previously to ensure dogs were allowed on the grounds. Upon arrival we immediately located a wild flower path scattered with Goldenrod and Queen Anne’s Lace, so beautiful! We walked on the path enjoying the colorful flowers, the view of the Estate from afar, and of course enjoying great company. We took many photographs and appreciated the picturesque footpath. We soon discovered that this path looped back to the Estate.

From there we wandered over to the Estate walking around it and looking at the various details. There was not much to see, but I admired the intricate characteristics of the structure, various colored bricks, brilliant arches, and a grand porch high above the ground. We also observed some large trees on the property, likely ancient in years. From there we strolled around the estate, locating what almost appeared to be a small orchard. It was a little unclear in some locations where the property continued, but we walked as far as it seemed appropriate. I think my favorite aspect of our visit to the Eustis Estate Museum was actually the flower path, definitely spectacular. My only disappointment was a dog off-leash quite far away from the owners – in a leash required zone. However, so glad we could visit the Eustis Estate (Rating: Blog will not be rated as the indoors of the property was not visited).

Throwback Adventure – Rutland State Park – Massachusetts

In July of 2013 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to Rutland State Park in Rutland, Massachusetts. Rutland State Park is a 300 acre Park that includes numerous trails and Whitehall Pond. As expected the Park is popular for: swimming, boating, picnicking, biking, and hiking.

We had a fun Adventure to Rutland State Park, many years ago. I remember enjoying walking with the boys on the nicely groomed trails, and also watching them enjoy a swim. It was a quiet location, and one that I have always thought I should to back, but have still yet to return. Another wonderful memory of an Adventure with my boys which I will treasure forever (Throwback Blogs will not always be rated).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

I have decided to return to the “normal” Weekly Video/Photo section of my blog. As you likely know we lost Shadow about two months ago and I have been focusing this section on Shadow. However, I have peace knowing I will continue to highlight favorite photographs including Shadow and Buster. The plan will still be to still 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.

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. We were recently devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020. It is so painful to know Shadow and Buster are both gone, but they will be in our hearts forever!

My feature today is an adorable photograph of Wilma at the Minute Man National Historical Park. This is one place we walk from time to time, and I absolutely love this garden. There were new blooms when we visited earlier this month, just lovely. Here is my flower girl, sweet Wilma.

August 17, 2020 – Cape Cod – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, 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. We were able to visit: the Green Briar Nature Center, Highfield Hall and Gardens, Nobska Lighthouse, and Nobska Beach. We have visited all of these locations previously, although it was Wilma’s first for several. These locations included: gardens, a fabulous lighthouse, and a lovely beach. Unfortunately the Lighthouse was under some construction, but we still enjoyed our visit. I decided to do a photo collage of all of these four stops combined all in one! If you have any questions about the photographs, or locations feel free to contact me on the contact form, or in the comments. A beautiful day with wonderful company (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Skinner State Park – Massachusetts

In August of 2014 Shadow, Buster, Myself, and our extended family Adventured to Skinner State Park in Hadley, Massachusetts. The Park was named after Joseph Allen Skinner. Skinner State Park has hiking trails, and provides an auto summit. The summit provides panoramic views of the Connecticut River and surrounding areas.

We had a scenic Adventure to Skinner State Park. We were so glad to have our extended family join us at this location. We drove to the summit and explored the area. We went on the porch of the Summit House to view the scene from below. There were beautiful sweeping views of the area, including the Connecticut River. The kids posed on top of a large rock, and enjoyed walking the dogs. It is always fun to have a new Adventure and catch up with family while doing so. Definitely a special memory at Skinner State Park. We will have to return to check on the trails in the future (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

August 10, 2020 – Eastern Point Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Eastern Point Lighthouse in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Eastern Point Lighthouse was built in the 1880s and is currently an active lighthouse. On the property you will also find: the oil house, radio beacon, fog horn building, and Dog Bar Breakwater. Access inside the fence is forbidden, however there are good views of the light station from the exterior. There is a $10 parking fee for parking.

We had a tranquil Adventure to the Eastern Point Lighthouse. We began our day with a long walk in Gloucester before heading over to Eastern Point Lighthouse. I have been interested in the Eastern Point Lighthouse for some time, and finally did some more extensive research which indicated that attendance is permitted. Upon arrival we found ourselves the only car in the parking lot, with two walkers just exiting. We immediately walked over to the rocky shore filled with colorful seaweed and the harbor scattered with bobbing boats. It was beautiful! We took our time appreciating the peace and beauty of our surroundings.

From there we wandered over to the breakwater. It did not seem as though we could get to there from the beach at first, but I soon realized that was the pathway. We viewed the Lighthouse from different angles as we headed over to the breakwater. The breakwater was very long, and provided easy footing, although not something I would recommend for those unsteady on their feet. We walked along and I continually peered back to see various viewpoints of the Lighthouse. The sun was quite shiny for photographs but I still snapped away. As we got further we noticed the breakwater was clearly owned by the seagulls but to be expected at a quiet coastal oasis. It was funny to hear them warning their peers of the deer-like creature heading onto their grounds. Wilma was eager to stare them down and loved all the new smells from the sea. At the end we found what I believe is the structure for the electric fog signal, almost a little lighthouse. A fun little aspect on the breakwater.

We then returned down the breakwater appreciating the ocean, boats, and view of the lighthouse from afar. Such a lovely location! And of course we ended the Adventure with some fun on the beach. Wilma enjoyed some digging, and attempted running energized by the coast. She rubbed her adorable face in the seaweed and waded in the water, continually sticking her nose in, quite entertaining to watch. I am glad Wilma finally recognizes that water can provide a cooling effect. Such a spectacular Adventure to the Eastern Point Lighthouse (Rating: 4.5).