July 15, 2020 – Old Scituate Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Scituate Lighthouse in Scituate, Massachusetts. This was my third visit to the Scituate Lighthouse. The Scituate Lighthouse is also referred to as Old Scituate Lighthouse. It is a historic lighthouse which was built in 1811, later being purchased by the town of Scituate. It is located at Cedar Point in Scituate Harbor, and as expected is a popular location for painters.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Scituate Lighthouse. Although I have been here twice before I apparently had forgotten the beauty. We arrived to find the sky blue, with fluffy white clouds. We circled the Lighthouse and then decided to hop down the long breakwater. The breeze was perfect, the large boulders colorful. The water was crashing into the breakwater, adding lovely drama. As we hopped I continually peaked back to check out the different views. The breakwater was not difficult to traverse, but yet the rocks did require careful calculation, especially with an energetic Wilma leading the way. We went to the very end of the breakwater, and appreciated the spectacular scene. We relaxed for a bit enjoying the breeze before turning back.

After we visited the beach, lots of rocks, and new angles of the lighthouse. Wilma was interested in the water, although still had jumpy movements with the waves. She explored the shore, and often looked around as though she was appreciating the views. We then decided to check out the smaller breakwater, another fun part of Adventure.

Lastly we made sure to explore the beach on the opposite side. It was a little more challenging arriving at this beach, with lots of uneven rocks. The rocks were round, and colorful, many my favorite color – purple! It was a little challenging walking along the shore due to the numerous rocks creating an unsteady gait. However we could not miss a part of the shore. From there we headed for one last view of the Lighthouse before heading out. The area was a bit more crowded then I preferred, but to be expected. Definitely one of the most beautiful Lighthouses in New England (Rating: 5).

November 2017

July 2016

July 15, 2020 – Deer Island – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Deer Island in Boston, Massachusetts. Deer Island is a Peninsula in Boston that is part of the Boston Harbor Islands. You can drive to the Island after crossing the town of Winthrop. The Island has a long history, including: serving as a prison camp for Native Americans during King Philip’s War, and a home to immigrants and refuges during the Irish Potato famine. The Island has five miles of trails including an almost three mile loop. It currently is the location for the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, which both treats and recycles waste. The Island is popular for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing.

We had a misty Adventure to Deer Island. We arrived at about 8am and I was quite thrilled to find a parking spot as the Island reviews indicated they are often limited. We began our walk around the main loop an almost three mile paved path. It was sprinkling, and somewhat misty as we began. I was surprised to find myself quite impressed with the beauty of the “trail”. There were many colorful wildflowers, and the waves were quite grand, loud and raging. Wilma often preferred to walk along the stone/cement wall, my rock loving girl. There were parts of the path where the waves actually crashed so high they spurted water over us and the path. I found this little natural feature so fun, although Wilma was not a huge fan of these unexpected showers.

I would guess we were about halfway around the Island when we found a little beach, centered by a breakwater, featuring purple tinted rocks. We normally would have wandered down the breakwater but there was a fisherman at the end so we decided to give him his space and explore the beach. I was disappointed to find a lot of litter on the shore, but sadly to be expected on a city beach. However we did our best to ignore this and appreciate the sand, shells, seaweed, lobster traps, and the water. Wilma loved sniffing around, and digging and running chaotically. She sometimes waded into the water, but dramatically bounded back when any type of wave appeared. A fun little diversion from the “trail”.

We then continued on the path along Boston Harbor. We soon found a spectacular view of Boston, so impressive. As we walked further the sky began to slightly clear, with dashes of blue between the clouds. I could not get enough of this view, and guess it must be one of the best skyline view of Boston. I took numerous photos of this scene, and dreamed about the zoom lens I wish I owned. Definitely one of my favorite parts of this walk as I love seeing the Boston skyline.

Throughout our walk the “trail” varied from a small path to opening up, to providing opportunities to walk on the rocks, to scenic vistas – paths off the trail. There were benches along the way to sit, relax, and enjoy the ocean views. An interesting aspect to Deer Island was the Treatment Plant which added various structures parallel to the “trail”. There was only one small part of the path where I noticed an odor, but thankfully that was a short part of our journey. We were able to view kiosks throughout to learn more about the location and history. Near the end of our walk we found several memorials, including the Irish Memorial, and the Judge A. David Mazzone Memorial.

I was very happy to be surprisingly impressed with Deer Island. The large waves made my mind think of movies where there is an ocean storm – just something I cannot describe in words but the sounds and the scene were majestic. The colorful wildflowers, combined with the unique structures of the Plant made for a distinctive experience. I loved the path too, quite pristine and quiet, I guess a perk of minimal parking. Although several things made me debate the rating I overall was very pleased with Deer Island, and look forward to returning in the future (Rating: 4).

July 13, 2020 -Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe in Waltham, Massachusetts. Pizzi Farm was founded in 1933 by the Pizzi family and continues to be run by the family. As expected they are known for their: ice cream, and deli, and also have catering, and sell additional products including: pumpkins, candy and flowers.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Pizzi Farm Market, Deli and Ice Cream Shoppe. I have been feeling a bit cranky with the heat so we have mostly been doing shorter local walks and spending time in our shady backyard. Therefore I thought today was the perfect time to visit Pizzi Farm for some ice cream. Upon arrival I noticed many areas for seating, and lovely flower barrels for decoration. There was no one else in the line so we were able to order immediately. It was fun to find they had several options for dogs including a little ice cream cake, ice cream treats, and also offered soft serve. I choose the ice cream treats for Wilma and decided to order a root beer float for myself. We found a quiet spot to sit and the shade and enjoy. Wilma apparently thought I should hold her “Fro Bone”, adorably licking it – so spoiled. However, I gave it to her so I could savor my yummy root beer float. It was just perfect! We relaxed for a bit before heading home. So glad we could Adventure to the Pizza Farm Market, Deli, and Ice Cream Shoppe today (Rating: How could you go wrong with a “Fro Bone” – delicious!)

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).