May 15, 2020 – Mill Hill – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Mill Hill property in Littleton, Massachusetts. Mill Hill is part of the Littleton Conservation Land. It is less than 30 acres in size and borders Beaver Brook. There are several trails on the property, and a picnic area on top of the hill. As expected the property is popular for walking, and picnicking.

We had a warm Adventure to Mill Hill on what appeared to me to be the warmest day this year. We arrived at this property to find a small parking lot, only large enough for about three cars, and we were lucky number three. We began on the trail eager to explore and be out on a walk. The trail was simple, and monotonous. There were many swarming bugs throughout our walk but I was quite thankful that they were not biting, and we carried on.

On part of our walk we could hear the very small brook singing, although overall the sounds of the nearby highway was predominant. There were large rocks for Wilma to jump on, and I was thrilled to see all the green leaves high above the woodlands. The only other color I found was a few purple violets. On our walk we located two old chimneys, and the picnic area on the hill. As per our usual we made sure to explore every trail on the property. Wilma was very hot, and her adorable tongue made for the perfect selfie! It was nice to see her drinking and wading in the little streams. That moment made me smile thinking of our Shadow, who would undoubtedly be laying in the steam soaking up every inch!

I was quite unimpressed with Mill Hill, however my research beforehand indicated that would be the case. We still enjoyed an energetic walk and more signs of spring. One spectacular thing about New England is that you appreciate those little things, as simple as trees with leaves. So although it is unlikely we will be back to Mill Hill, we were glad embark on a new Adventure (Rating: 2)

May 13, 2020 – Acton Arboretum – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Acton Arboretum in Acton, Massachusetts. This was our second Adventure to the Acton Arboretum as My parents, Shadow, Wilma, and I visited exactly two years ago. The Acton Arboretum which is situated on some of the 65 acres of conservation land in Acton. It has a short trail system, and provides numerous gardens to explore. The Arboretum offers self-guided tours, available for download.

We had a colorful Adventure to the Acton Arboretum. I decided to blog again about this Arboretum as it has been two years since our last visit. We had quite the challenge finding parking as spots were greatly reduced due to COVID. This was quite frustrating, but after a very long delay in plans we were able to locate a parking spot…let the relaxation and floral therapy begin!!

We took our time slowly exploring various corners of the park, both My Mom and I snapping constant photographs. We had no route, no plan, and no map, appreciating the spontaneity of the moments. The Park had many blooms, although was still in the early phases of spring. I absolutely loved the boardwalks, ponds, and a bright red bridge. There were benches along the route allowing one to stop and appreciate the gardens. One of my favorite parts was a trail through the woods that included boardwalks and was scattered with bright yellow Celandine, blue bells, and various other wildflowers. The colors were vibrant and just spectacular. Along the way we saw several animals including a Baltimore Oriole, radiantly orange, and a sweet little turtle relaxing in the pond.

Throughout the evening Wilma enjoyed screaming at the squirrels (yes literally!), posing as requested, and becoming overzealous at the sight of any furry friend. We spent about two and a half hours exploring, enjoying great company and appreciating all the sights and smells of spring. Such a simple, but lovely place. I expect we will be the Arboretum again, hopefully long before another two years (Rating: 4).

May 13, 2020

May 13, 2018

May 2, 2020 – Sherburne Nature Center and Trails – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. The Center was donated by the Sherburne family in 1999. It has approximately eighty acres of open land and trails and the Center itself has various exhibits and opportunities for educational activities. The Sherburne property is popular for walking, nature viewing, snow shoeing and biking.

We had an early morning Adventure to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails arriving at 5:30am! We were pleased to find an empty parking lot the sun just starting to rise. We began our hike through the field and into the woods, soon locating a singing brook. Wilma immediately heading to the water’s edge to explore and I treasured the sounds of nature. From there we headed over the bridge and began to explore the Trails. I had peeked at the online map beforehand but soon discovered the Trails were quite confusing, often finding labels to indicate we were on a trail, but unclear as to what trail, or how it connected with another. Nevertheless being a small local park this caused no concern and we carried on. Wilma appeared very jovial, jumping up on anything tall, and sniffing everything in sight. Parts of the Trail were quite muddy, but to be expected with our recent days of rain.

After eventually finding our way back to the babbling brook, we were able to locate a nearby Trail with a spectacular boardwalk. The geese were unusually loud, maybe warning of a dog-like, deer looking creature?? (haha!) We saw adorable ducklings, and located a large beaver dam in close proximity to the boardwalk. The sun was rising through the trees, adding incredible beauty to this picturesque portion of the Trails. This was definitely my favorite part of the Trails at the Sherburne Nature Center!

We spent about an hour and a half exploring the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails. So fun to find a new local Trail system. Below you will see many photos and two videos of my favorite two sections of the Trails, both of which we explored twice (Rating: 3.5).

April 25, 2020 – Eastham Windmill – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, and I Adventured to the Eastham Windmill in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. The Eastham Windmill is the oldest working Windmill in Cape Cod. The Windmill was built in 1680 in Plymouth, and moved numerous times before arriving at the current location. As expected the Windmill has been restored over the years. It currently is open to the public in summer months providing tours of the operation. The Eastham Windmill also fresh-ground cornmeal which is sold to the community.

We had a special Adventure to the Eastham Windmill as this was our first ever Adventure to a Windmill! The Windmill was the centerpiece of the Town Center, located in a small park. It was surrounded by rustic fencing, and many benches around the border. We began exploring at the official sign of the Windmill, at the forefront of the Park. The nearby fencing was lined with gorgeous, bright white and yellow daffodils, sending my mind to thoughts of Dutch culture. After appreciating these pretty spring flowers we found another opening and headed straight to the Eastham Windmill. The Windmill was quite picturesque, and very tall. We viewed it from all angles, even discovering small Christmas lights on the turbines. Such a marvelous, and distinctive structure.

After snapping endless photographs, as per our usual custom we sauntered past the Windmill over to a small gazebo, and a radiant “Memorial Buoy Tree”. These Memorial was devoted to a local resident who had passed. Such a beautiful tribute that clearly has been treasured by his dedicated communicated.

I am not sure if you are thrilled to learn but we might have a new theme for our future Adventures. Well, not really theme, don’t you worry, but we do look forward to visiting other Windmills in the future. So delighted we could discover the Eastham Windmill today (Rating: 3.5)

April 25, 2020 – Three Sisters Lighthouses – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Three Sisters Lighthouses in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. These three fifteen foot towers were built in 1836, The Nauset Lights. They later became referred to as The Three Sisters as they were said to appear as woman who were wearing white dresses and black hats. The Three Sisters fell into the sea, and were replaced by twenty foot towers. They eventually were decommissioned and purchased and restored by the National Park Service. The National Park Service provides regular tours are available.

We had a fun Adventure to the Three Sisters Lighthouses on a warm and sunny April day. I was excited to locate these lighthouses, as there are few left in Massachusetts that I have not yet discovered. I spotted them as we drove by but it appeared the parking was closed so we parked at the nearby beach, soon locating the path labeled “Three Sisters Lighthouses. We walked down a nice paved path, past several homes before arriving at the Three Sisters Lighthouses. The Lighthouses were simple, yet unique, and pretty in their own way. They were located near one another, standing out well from the bright green grass. We visited each lighthouse checking out the details, each very similar to one another. My little hound Wilma was quite overtaken by smells in the area, and enjoyed quite the nasal sensory experience (haha). We had this location to ourselves, and took our time exploring. There were several picnic tables, some beautiful bright yellow forsythias and an educational kiosk. So glad we discovered the Three Sisters Lighthouses today, quite a unique trio (Rating: 3.5)

April 25, 2020 – Craigville Beach – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Craigville Beach in Barnstable, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Craigville Beach is a public beach located on Nantucket Sound. There is a daily parking fee required in-season. As expected Craigville Beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, walking and socializing.

We had a colorful Adventure to Craigville Beach as we arrived bright and early to admire the sunrise. I was relieved upon arrival to find an empty beach, although several visitors were noted to be sitting in cars. Immediately we headed to the water’s edge, and heard sounds of birds, and the waves, a peaceful oasis. Wilma was absolutely thrilled to be at the beach, often darting back and forth trying to run. We walked along the shore, peaked at shells, and appreciated the full sensory experience. Wilma participated in some chaotic digging, and appeared quite brave entering the water, seeming to understand the term “go swimming” meant to head toward the water. I thought about our beach bum Shadow trotting by our side, he would have been so happy to enjoy a beach morning. Glad he had so many Adventures to the beach. We spent about an hour at the beach, as we relished some coastal therapy. Such a peaceful morning at Craigsville Beach (Rating: 3.5)

April 22, 2020 – Battle Road Trail, Part III – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, and I Adventured to the Battle Road Trail in Concord, Massachusetts. The Battle Road Trail is an almost ten mile round trip Trail, connecting historic sites from Concord to Lexington Massachusetts. The Trail focuses on the Battle of 1775 which began the American Revolution. It crosses wetlands, forests, and farmlands, and contains various landmarks and kiosks along the way. The Trail is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.

We had a gusty Adventure to the Battle Road Trail. This was the first time we have been to this section of the Battle Road Trail, so I am therefore titling it “Part III”. This is our third and final blog of this special Trail, as we have now officially traversed the entire Trail. It was sad to complete this journey without our Shadow but we were pleased that he was able to appreciate almost the entire Trail as today was the smallest portion of our three part Adventure. Today Wilma and I parked at the last lot at Meriam Corner. Apparently we did the Trail backwards as my research indicated this was actually the beginning of the Battle Road Trail..oops! After parking we headed toward Nathan Meriam’s home, the only historical building on this last section of the Trail. Wilma posed on a bench nearby, and at the home. We then walked around this historic building, quickly locating some bright colors in several flowers, including: Narcissus, Hyacinths, and Periwinkles. More and more signs of spring to brighten our day!

We then returned to the parking lot and continued on the Trail, heading in the direction of our previous Adventures. There were few other visitors exploring, and we did not even spot one dog friend. The sky was filled with perfect clouds, and the wind roaring. There were several benches along the way, kiosks, and several very short boardwalks. We sauntered through the fields, and woods, before entering the edge of farmland, and soon arrived at the farthest location of which we commenced “Part II” of our Battle Road Trail Adventures. (I believe that official location was “Carty Barn” per my best guess from the map).

Wilma seemed a bit apprehensive again today, but yet the wind was quite wild, possibly causing her some uncertainty. Yet she may still be building her confidence without chill Shadow trotting by her side, reassuring her that everything will be alright. However she still was quite energetic to be out and about. Wilma has had a sore leg on and off so we have been doing a little less walking, and backyard time, causing us both to be especially thrilled to be out and about. So we did our best to walk slowly, and I took time to cherish the precious moments from our first Adventures with our sweet Shadow. If you would like to see our previous two Adventures with Shadow to the Battle Road Trail you can type “Battle Road Trail” in the search box, and all three Adventures will be listed from your search. The Battle Road Trail is definitely an original place to explore in our New England (Rating: 3).

March 30, 2020 – Whitetail Woods – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, My Mother, and I Adventured to the Whitetail Woods property in Littleton, Massachusetts. Whitetail Woods is part of the Littleton Conservation Trust. It contains two trails throughout woodland areas, less then two miles in total. Whitetail Woods is popular for dog walkers, wildlife viewing, and cross country skiing.

We had an educational Adventure to the Whitetail Woods property. I was disappointed to find Wilma’s leg still a bit sore, so decided to let her stay home to rest. Feeling a bit guilty I headed off with Shadow, and we met My Mother at Whitetail Woods. This was the second time we have been to this property, as the first visit was with My parents, Shadow, and Buster back in 2014 (see photographs below the photographs from today).

We parked at a newly paved parking lot, viewed a kiosk with the Trail map and then headed off on the Trail. Shadow was quite thrilled to see his Grandmother was joining us on our hike. There were two loops, one guided by orange diamonds, and the other by white diamonds. We took our time exploring and walking. There were parts of the Trails where you could hear construction and see the surrounding properties and homes, but much of the Trail was quite serene. My Mother educated me on recognizing and determine the age of a White Pine, and on how to to identify Cinderella Pines and Winter Berry. In addition did you know that Lichen (flaky green plant) grows on the north side of an upright tree, and indicates healthy air? I am always so enlightened with My Mother’s knowledge of nature.

Throughout the walk Shadow enjoyed the smells, and even posed on a rock. I was quite entertained by watching him navigate several logs over the Trails. I fondly treasure every moment this previous boy makes me smile! Today was dark and dreary, but thankfully not too cold. We made sure to walk on every part of each Trail before heading back to the car. Very slowly I am noticing more green as I count down to spring a refreshing sight.

I am so grateful that with these worrisome times we can still enjoy the great outdoors with family. Hoping Wilma will be feeling better soon and can join us on our next Adventure (Rating 3.5).

Today, March 30, 2020

February 2014 – Throwback Adventure

March 28, 2020 – Battle Road Trail, Part II – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Battle Road Trail in Concord, Massachusetts. The Battle Road Trail is an almost ten mile round trip Trail, connecting historic sites from Concord to Lexington Massachusetts. The Trail focuses on the Battle of 1775 which began the American Revolution. It crosses wetlands, forests, and farmlands, and contains various landmarks and kiosks along the way. The Trail is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Battle Trail. This was the first time we have been to this section of the Battle Trail, so I am therefore titling it “Part II”. We parked at the Hartwell Tavern Parking Lot as on our first Adventure (Part I), the Hartwell Tavern was where we concluded our hike. Today we began our walk down the Trail locating a picnic area, and a weeded patch scattered with crocuses, a gorgeous sign of spring. This side-trail from the parking lot soon dropped us right to the Hartwell Tavern where we turned left and began our Part II Adventure on the Battle Trail.

The Battle Trail was the busiest I have ever seen it. I have been quite humored by the fact that a Pandemic has caused so many discover the magnificent outdoors, leading the trails to be over-crowded with guests. This sadly has caused many places to close but we were relieved that although the facilities were closed the physical Battle Trail was still open. And of course when I say “humored” I do acknowledge that it is a very worrisome time, however, I never would have expected everyone to flood to the quiet oasis of the outdoors.

As expected, the Battle Trail was end of winter brown, however there were small aspects of color in various buds. In many parts the trails were edged by perfectly shaped rock fences, adding a lovely frame. We passed historical buildings, remnants of battle, and were educated by kiosks along the trail. I was surprised to find two boardwalks along the Trail, in my mind an unexpected feature of a historic landmark. The boardwalks appeared to transform us into a new environment, a wonderful aspect of the Trail.

We spent about three hours walking the Battle Trail, including exploring several side-trails. I had planned to hike the entire second half of the Trail, often thinking we were close to the finish, although no way to know. However Shadow seemed quite tired and Wilma appeared to be re-aggravated a sore leg, so I regretfully headed back, feeling this was best for my furry best buds. So there will be a “Part III” in the future. no matter how short it may be! Such a wonderful day to enjoy a walk on the Battle Trail (Rating: 3.5).

(If you are interested in reading Part I of the Battle Trail, you can type “Battle Road Trail” into the search box. I will be updating it immediately after posting this blog to indicate “Part I”.)

Throwback Adventure – Fort Revere Park – Massachusetts

I will have sections of my blog that I will title “Throwback Adventure”, and will plan on posting them every Thursday. These are journeys we have taken before I started the blog, but are well worth sharing. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

In April 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Revere Park in Hull, Massachusetts. Fort Revere Park is less then 10 acres in size. It is located on Telegraph Hill, and is famous for its’ role in the American Revolution. The Property includes a Water Tower, remnants of the Fort, and picnic tables. Fort Revere Park is owned by the Town of Hull and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Revere Park on a day full of Adventures. The Park was very small, and had minimal property to explore. However, we still enjoyed the experience. We pranced around the Water Tower taking photographs, and then headed over to the Fort which was scattered with graffiti. I was disappointed to see the Fort in this condition but we still wandered around checked out the ledges, doors, and various aspects of the Fort. I especially remember walking around on a ledge high above the Fort. We appreciated the views of the Harbor, and even noticing a lighthouse far in the distance. There were no other visitors at the Park, which appeared to be hidden away in the quiet Town of Hull. Glad we were able to visit the Fort Revere Park (Throwback Blogs will not always be rated).