July 10, 2020 – Pepperell Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Pepperell Covered Bridge in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Pepperell Covered Bridge traverses the Nashua River. It was originally built in 1818 but has been rebuilt three times, most recently in 2010. The Bridge has access for vehicles, and pedestrians.

We had a local Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge. I had been there once before with Shadow and Buster but do not believe I took any photographs. We found the small parking area indicated for the Nashua River Access Area, and parked near the bridge. There was a small walkway with some information kiosks and memorials. We visited these features before trotting over to the bridge. The bridge was somewhat dull in color, as was the hazy sky. I posed Wilma, who smiled grandly before heading over the pedestrian walkway. Wilma was obsessed with looking out the bridge, down the stream, very focused and curious. I am guessing she was able to see, or smell the nearby farm animals. We walked through the bridge and to the other side. There was a loose dog running around so we just snapped one quick photograph before heading back.

After exploring the Pepperell Covered Bridge from above we headed over to a short and steep trail down to the side of the Bridge to see the side. Seeing the simple front, I was surprised to find a more scenic bridge, with lattice-like style. Wilma enjoyed a couple sips from the water before we headed back to the car. I was quite disappointed to see a great amount of glass on this path, but was grateful that we did not have any incidents.

So glad we could Adventure to the Pepperell Covered Bridge today (Rating: 3.5).

July 9, 2020 – Halibut Point State Park – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Massachusetts. Halibut Point State Park parallels Halibut Point Reservation. Halibut Point is a granite quarry that was quarried as early as 1840. The Park is also located on the ocean. It includes: trails, scenic views, and areas for picnicking. There is also a visitor center and lighthouse appearing tower on the grounds. Halibut Point State Park is managed jointly by the Trustees of Reservations and The Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We had a steamy Adventure to Halibut Point State Park. We have been to Halibut Point State Park on numerous occasions, but were still excited to return. Since I had not blogged about it in about a year and a half I thought I would share some new photographs, and old photographs from this special location. We arrived at the Park, and followed the scenic little trail to the quarry. The Lighthouse appearing Tower was finished with construction, and had a lovely modern look. As per our usual we snapped some photographs and enjoyed this peaceful locale.

We then headed around the quarry, stopping at various openings to capture the diverse perspectives. The rocks at the quarry are quite magnificent, and the views are just beautiful. We noticed birds enjoying the water, and viewed the Tower from afar. I dreamed about a jump and swim as the heat of the day was quite intense. However we carried on and headed toward the ocean shore. The small path to the rocks was quite pleasing, and distinctive. You can see the ocean in the distance, always adding great anticipation. There were not as many flowers as I have discovered on past visits, however this did not dampen the coastal beauty.

Upon arrival I was surprised at how crowded the rocky shore was, however thankful that generally people were scattered, providing for the necessary social distancing. My Mom found a quiet spot to sit and Wilma and I headed off to for a little rock-jumping walk. There were rocks of all shapes and sizes, requiring careful balance and placement. We hopped to the water’s edge, and appreciated the waves, colors of blue, several boats, and textured seaweed. Wilma appeared tempted to enter the water but seemed quite uneasy with the splashing waves. I was disappointed as it was quite a warm day. However soon my entertainment began as Wilma dived into the tidal pool and began flinging herself into the seaweed – it was absolutely hysterical. As you will know if you follow by blog, Wilma does not like the water, so this scene was quite spectacular for her water-loving Mother to watch. She dipped her face in the water, and rolled on the seaweed. Wilma had so much fun, it was perfect! I was especially glad that this enabled a cool-down on a hot summer day. And I can promise you Wilma is quite the adorable wet dog, a sight I have rarely seen.

After exploring closer to the shore we headed back to My Mom and relaxed for a little time before heading back. It was definitely too hot but we still had a wonderful time at Halibut Point State Park. Halibut Point State Park is definitely a local gem, and a Park we look forward to visiting again in the future (Rating: 4).

Today, July 9, 2020

August 26, 2019

November 4, 2018

October 2017

February 2016

September 2012

Throwback Adventure – Mystery Lake – Massachusetts

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.

In June 2014 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to this Mysterious Lake, not called “Mysterious Lake” but I actually am not sure what Lake we discovered. On this day I recall finding this location after some hiking, and there were no labels or signs around the location. We found several trails near the Lake, but mostly relaxed on the rocks. Both Buster and Shadow enjoyed swimming, while Buster was extra-relaxed laying out to enjoy this new location. I do not recall seeing many other visitors when we were there. And even thought this location may be unknown, I still decided share these special memories and moments with my boys (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 8, 2020 – Hartwell Family Memorial Preserve – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Hartwell Family Memorial Preserve in Littleton, Massachusetts. The Hartwell property is 102 acres and has an almost two mile loop trail with various other trails throughout the property. The Preserve is part of Littleton conservation land.

We had a bug-filled Adventure to the Hartwell Family Memorial Preserve. Eager to explore a new local trail we headed out for an early morning walk. We began our journey on the yellow trail, quickly finding the bugs on attack. However we carried on to explore the land. My plan was to follow the loop trail but the trails were not clearly marked so although we concentrated on the loop we also traversed several different trails. Some of the paths were overgrown, and there were a couple muddy areas, one of which almost stole my shoe-twice! The trails weaved through the woods, opening up when near Beaver Brook. Often we found the sounds of the highway overtook the singing of birds.

Although I generally am not someone bothered by bugs they were definitely challenging today, continually swarming and biting! However I tried hard to ignore them and to enjoy our long walk. My favorite parts of this trail were the walk along the Brook and Marsh, the ferns lining the trails, and several short but steep hills which got the heart pumping! Oh and we even saw a hawk…how could I forget! Wilma loved the smells, and a vigorous walk. And although I am literally itching as I write this blog I am still glad that we Adventured to the Hartwell Family Memorial Preserve today (Rating: 2.5)

July 6, 2020 – Historic Deerfield- Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Historic Deerfield in Deerfield, Massachusetts. Historic Deerfield is a Museum dedicated to the history of Deerfield and the Connecticut River Valley. There are approximately 11 historic homes from the 18th and 19th centruy. Historic Deerfield also has museums, a shop, and offers tours and educational programs.

We had a fun Adventure to Historic Deerfield. Due to COVID Historic Deerfield is officially closed however this did not change our visit as the indoors of this Village are not dog-friendly when open. We began our morning by viewing a large map posted outside the visitors center. This map gave me an idea of where all the historic buildings were located so we did not miss a piece of history. The street was very charming, the historic buildings scattered between private homes and other buildings but yet all restored to 18th and 19th century architecture.

We walked and walked, but also took time to sit in the shade to refresh. My favorite aspects of the village included: the Wells-Thorn House – unique blue in color, the various lanterns, the Moors House – framed with lattice, the numerous adorning fences, and the little architecture features throughout. Wilma loved her summer rolls, searching for squirrels, lounging in the shade and posing grandly. An Adventure filled with walking with a historic view! We really enjoyed exploring Historic Deerfield today (Rating: Historic Deerfield will not be rated as only the grounds could be explored).

July 3, 2020 – Porcupine Falls – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Porcupine Falls in Gilsum, New Hampshire. Porcupine Falls is located in the John and Rosemarie Calhoun Family Forest, part of the Monadnock Conservancy. The Falls is approximately fifteen feet in height and is sourced from the White Brook. The Trail to the Falls is less then one mile round trip.

We had a simple Adventure to Porcupine Falls. We arrived after following White Brook Road to the end, first seeing the sign to John and Rosemarie Calhoun Forest and then landing directly into the parking lot. Upon exiting we heard the chirping birds and singing Brook. We began over a bridge crossing the Brook and headed out on our trek.

The Trail to Porcupine Falls followed the blue diamond trail. Along the trail there were two bridges, many ferns, and a boardwalk-like bridge. The trail was very buggy but the continual sounds of water and nature helped distract us from the bombing bugs. Immediately preceding the Falls there were some rock stairs, and the second bridge. Porcupine Falls was locatesdto the left of this bridge. I could not believe how short the trail was to the Falls. We hopped over the rocks to arrive right next to the Falls. Honestly I was slightly disappointed as I had imagined a much more impressive Falls. However we made sure to explore the area surrounding the Falls and appreciate the moments. I was quite pleased not to see any porcupines but yet oddly I saw one from the car later in the day. Always glad to visit yet another New England waterfall (Rating: 3).

PS – It is recommended that you view the videos to see the best perspective of the waterfall – video three is captured in closest proximity.

Video 1: Bridge near Porcupine Falls

Video 2: Trail to Porcupine Falls

Video 3: Porcupine Falls

Video 4: First Bridge over White Brook on the way to Porcupine Falls

Throwback Adventure – Nantasket Beach – Massachusetts

In April 2018 Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Nantasket Beach in Hull, Massachusetts. This Beach is part of the Nantasket Beach Reservation and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Nantasket Beach is a very popular beach in summer months.

We had a playful Adventure to Nantasket Beach. It was a dark day, often typical in the early spring months in Massachusetts. Shadow and Wilma explored, played, and bounced around excited to be on yet another beach Adventure. The Beach was mostly sandy, but had beautiful round, and colorful rocks on parts of the shore. It was very quiet, which of course we appreciated. Nantasket Beach was far from a fancy Beach, but yet being on the sand, and knowing spring was on the way made for quite the perfect day. So glad we were able to Adventure to Nantasket Beach (Throwback blogs will not always be rated).

July 1, 2020 – Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (Acton) – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail in Acton, Massachusetts. The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail is a twenty five mile Trail that includes the towns of Lowell, Chelmsford, Westford, Carlisle, Acton, Concord, Framingham, and Sudbury. The Trail is 10 feet in width and is popular for: biking, skiing, walking, jogging, and rollerblading.

We had a surprisingly lovely Adventure to the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. I was eager to take a walk on this Trail but did not have high expectations specific to scenery. We parked in a designated parking area on Route 27. Upon arrival we were greeted by the loud songs of cheerful frogs, perking up the ears of my curious Wilma. The Trail entrance was quite formal lined by black fencing and scattered with flowers. From there we turned right and began our walk. The Trail was framed by a scenic wooden fence. I was pleased to find the Trail quite wide, perfect for a mixture of those walking, running, and biking, and of course a safe distance in these days of COVID. We could hear the traffic on Route 27 but overall it was a peaceful setting.

The Trail was continually framed with rustic fencing, a simple feature that I appreciated. It did not take us long to arrive at a wetlands area filled with pussy willows, frogs, and birds. I was quite elated to find this knowing we were only exploring a small portion of this Trail. There were several more of these wetlands areas along the way, we even located some benches for visitors to sit and relax.

It is always nice when an Adventure exceeds my expectations. Wilma seemed hot today, even laying down for a quick nap, so we only walked about an hour. We definitely will be back to visit the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (Rating: Adventure will not be rated as only a small section of this 25 mile Trail was explored).

June 28, 2020 – Meadowlands Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Meadowlands Ice Cream in Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Meadowlands is an ice cream stand known for their homemade ice cream. In addition they sell pies, pizzas, and cookies, and are very dog friendly. Meadowlands began making home made ice cream in 1964 although ownership has changed over the years.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Meadowlands. This was our first NEW ice cream Adventure of the year. We arrived just prior to opening, therefore finding the location very quiet. We first wandered around to see the grounds and viewed several small gardens, before heading over to place our orders.

I ordered cookie dough topped with whip cream and their canine selection for Wilma. We then wandered behind Meadowlands to sit and savor our treats. Wilma quickly devoured her ice cream, which was topped with peanut butter. I took my time and gave Wilma the last spoonful. So tasty! I loved that Meadowlands had plenty of space to sit and was backed by a field. This created a tranquil atmosphere. Definitely a fun and filling trip! You cannot go wrong with ice cream (Rating: Just right)

Throwback Adventure – Stony Brook Conservation Land – Westford

Shadow, Buster, and Wilma and I all had numerous trips to the fabulous Stony Brook Conservation Land in Westford, Massachusetts. Stony Brook Conservation Land is an almost 300 acre conservation land with numerous trails, including a 1.75 loop around Burges Pond. This property encompasses the East Boston Camps and is the location for the Marcus Lewis Day Camp. The Land is especially popular for swimming, and off-leash dog walkers.

We are lucky to have Adventured to the Stony Brook Conservation Land on countless occasions. I first discussed this beautiful Land with Buster and Shadow, enjoying many hikes and swims. I later spent alot of time with Shadow, my beach lover, often swimming with him in the summer months, and even going for a kayak ride. We continued our visits with Wilma joining a puppy hiking and socializing group. I especially enjoy Stony Brook in the summer months for the swimming, in every season for long hikes, and for beautiful Fall scenes. We have met lots of dog friends, made some human friends, and hiked with family and friends. The Stony Brook Conservation Land is a wonderful outdoor property (Rating: 4).