March 15, 2020 – Bates/Blackman Conservation Land – Massachusetts

Today Shadow and I Adventured to the Bates/Blackman Conservation Land in Groton, Massachusetts. The property is 47 acres and is owned by the Groton Conservation Trust. It includes several brooks, fields, and a steep climb up Indian Hill where you will find panoramic views.

We had an aerobic Adventure to the Bates/Blackman Conservation Land. I decided to take Shadow on a solo Adventure today, as the unexpected situations of off-leash dogs can be challenging for Wilma. I generally bring them both on every adventure, but since I will be working from home for the next three weeks I felt today was a good day for a solo Shadow Adventure. And reducing my guilt a bit Wilma enjoyed at least six hours outside sunning, chasing squirrels, and enjoying the sounds and smells of nature. On to today’s Adventure…

We arrived at the parking lot for the Bates/Blackman Conservation Land carefully, attempting to avoid the holes and frozen mud, relieved to find a safe spot. We started across a bridge, past one home, a field, into the woods, and to another brook. Shadow was quite happy to find the water, and enjoyed drinking and wading. We found some simple, but uniquely colored bridges, which as you may expect I quite appreciated. The landscape was brown, but I challenged myself to find unique features, varied textures, and the few colors in sight.

After Shadow finished enjoying the water we headed up the reported 180 feet to the top of Indian Hill. I was not expecting this vigorous workout but was pleased to get the pulse pumping. Off to the right there were views of mountains from afar, and scenes from the local town, I am sure quite lovely in the colors of fall. After reaching the top we ascended down a grass trail, almost appearing to be on the edge of someone’s yard. However clearly on the path we continued on the trail until we reached the official end of the 1.8 mile round-trip hike. Once confirming this information we returned back, Shadow taking the lead. I am always thrilled when Shadow can run off leash. He is so well behaved, and definitely enjoys his independence. A wonderful outing with my boy Shadow (Rating: 3, Memories: Just right!).

March 8, 2020 – Spruce Pond Creamery -Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Spruce Pond Creamery in Franklin, Massachusetts. The Spruce Pond Creamery is well known for their flatbread pizza, homemade ice cream, calzones, pasta based dishes, and their beer and wine. The Creamery has a porch that overlooks the Pond and an outdoor window for ordering.

We had a pricey Adventure to the Spruce Pond Creamery. Upon completion of our Adventure at the nearby Franklin Sculpture Park my mind was set on something cold and refreshing, sadly battling a cold. We were pleased to find an outdoor window for ordering, but quite shocked at the high prices and and to find no official dog ice cream. However, with the help of the kind server we were able to find a dog friendly ice cream option, while my Mom ordered coffee ice cream and I an Orange Sorbet Freeze. After ordering we decided to head home with our goodies, outdoor seating not appearing to be available in off-season. My Mom found her ice cream “satisfactory” while I found my Freeze quite refreshing. We enjoyed our treats as we drove home chatting away planning our next Adventure.

As soon as I dropped my Mom home and we arrived at our house we scurried out to the backyard so Shadow and Wilma could devour their well-awaited treats. They clearly had no complaints and made me smile as they slurped away. And for those of you who are crazy dog lovers, as myself, please enjoy two short videos below of their cheerful licks. Glad we could visit another ice cream spot today at the Spruce Pond Creamery (Rating: 3).

March 8, 2020 – Franklin Sculpture Park – Massachusetts

On March 8, 2020 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Franklin Sculpture Park in Franklin, Massachusetts. The Franklin Sculpture Park is a small sculpture Park. The project to create this sculpture park was driven by the community, the land donated by the town, while the Franklin Art Center organized the artwork. The Franklin Sculpture Park is free for visitors.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Franklin Sculpture Park. I was excited to find this Park as it had not popped up in my searches before. Even better I was thrilled to have my Mom join us to explore this new location. We arrived at the Park to find few other visitors. We began the cement loop around the Park, scattered with sculptures throughout. The sculptures were labeled, and many quite unique. I think my favorite sculptures were: two faces, a photograph sculpture, a path of rainbows, and fish artwork framing the water. In thinking back I guess I should have payed a bit more attention to their titles, but likely you can locate them below.

We enjoyed strolling slowly, and appreciating great company. There were ducks in the water adding a nature feel to what appeared to be a man-made pond, and energizing Wilma in anticipation. The landscape was winter brown, but yet pretty in its own way. We enjoyed a quite humorous moment when Wilma did not appear thrilled to find a monster-appearing structure in her view. I took a quick video as this moment occurred and she soon warmed up to this mysterious creature. We posed with several of the sculptures and enjoyed the moments. Poor Shadow was quite disappointed not to take a dip, but yet the water did not look too clean for a sip. Simple, but really a lovely Park. So glad we discovered the Franklin Park Sculpture Park today (Rating: 3.5)

March 3, 2020 – Crocker Park -Massachusetts

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Crocker Park in Marblehead, Massachusetts. Crocker Park is a less then three acre park with views of the Marblehead Harbor. The Park has benches, a pavilion, restrooms, and several commemorative plaques.

We had a sun-filled Adventure to Crocker Park, one of yesterday’s several Marblehead Adventures. Due to voting day it was challenging to drive to the Park, but I eventually found parking down the street. Little did I know that Crocker Park did not have official parking so I was grateful to locate this lot. From there we walked down from street, quickly passing by the Park before realizing we had missed the overgrown sign.

Upon arrival we headed up a small hill to the Park, which was quiet, peaceful, and provided lovely coastal views. Still quite brown from the winter, but the bright blue Harbor and unusual rocks helped to distract. Wilma was thrilled to see numerous rocks of which she bounded about, while Shadow preferred his cheerful grassy rolls. The Park was tiny, ensuring we would not miss an inch. We walked along the sidewalk and appreciated the sounds of the seas. We then sat for a bit in the grass appreciating the views and the serenity around us. Quite the therapy for the senses.

My favorite parts of this Park were the gigantic rocks, and Harbor Views. Due to the parking situation I am sure this Park must mostly be visited by locals. I had a slight deja view of a previous visit where I was running up the hill while My Mom sat in the car with Shadow, as we had been unable to locate parking. So I believe this was our first official Adventure to Crocker Park, definitely a recommended site for a picnic. So glad we had an Adventure to Crocker Park (Rating: 3.5).

February 29, 2020 – Salem Maritime National Historic Site – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site in Salem, Massachusetts. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a nine acre Park that tells the history of the residents of Salem, interpreting maritime history and connections to the world. It includes twelve historic structures, replica ships, the Derby Lighthouse, as well as a downtown visitor Center. It was established in 1938 and was the first National Historic Site in the United States.

We had blue-sky filled Adventure to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Although we have been to the area on at least one occasion this was the first time we thoroughly explored the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. I studied the online map ahead of time, and peaked on my phone throughout our visit. We began at the waterfront exploring the open greenery before heading down the Wharf toward the Lighthouse. There were beautiful clouds floating in the bright blue sky, the sun streaming through. We eagerly headed down the Wharf, soon passing the Pedrick Store House and the Friendship of Salem ship. There were chairs to the left overlooking the beach area. The pathway was scattered with goose poop (yuck!), shells, and was mostly consistent of rocks, and gravel. We took our time wandering to the end of the Wharf, exploring all the smells along the way.

Upon arriving at the Derby Lighthouse there were few people in sight, and we soon had this scenic view to ourselves. We spent a good amount of time wandering around the Lighthouse, and taking photographs. It was peaceful, and beautiful. I had been to this Lighthouse once before with Shadow and was pleased to visit again. We remained at the Lighthouse for awhile before other guests arrived and we headed back down the Wharf.

We then wandered to explore the historic homes. They were lovely, well-labeled and most separated in a small area which appeared to have fancy walkways, highlighted by white fencing. We stopped at all the various buildings reading the historic signs and information, as available. After making sure to stop at all landmarks listed on the map we wandered around the town of Salem for awhile, making sure to get a long walk. Not the cleanest of places, but definitely unique. Below you will see a collage of our photographs from the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Glad we could visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site today (blog will not be rated as only the outdoors of the property was explored).

February 22, 2020 – Fall River Heritage State Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fall River Heritage State Park in Fall River, Massachusetts. Fall River Heritage State Park is a historic public park that is located along the Taunton River. The Park includes: a large carousel, a visitor center, a boardwalk, and views of the battleships of Battleship Cove – America’s Fleet Museum. Fall River Heritage State Park is popular for sailing, walking, educational programs, and summer activities.

We had a scenic Adventure to the Fall River Heritage State Park. Upon arrival, I was immediately awed by the World War II battleships docked at neighboring Battleship Cove. They were gigantic, and absolutely fascinating. We immediately wandered toward these ships, but did not enter the actual Battleship Cove, unlikely to be dog friendly. We explored the minimal grounds finding several propellers, a 9-1-1 Memorial, and various other artifacts.

After wandering around the Battleship Cove grounds we headed toward the Visitor Center. I almost neglected to locate the carousel as we passed by, closed for the season. Our entrance began as we traversed a wooden bridge leading us to the doorsteps of the Visitor Center. We headed up to and around the Center, making sure not to miss sight of the River. Over to the left were the ships and the impressive Baga Bridge, while to the right the boardwalk resumed. Our journey continued down the boardwalk, parallel to the River. Along this boardwalk we passed a small park with benches, and what appeared to be a building for sailing ventures. We spent about two hours in the Park mostly walking along the boardwalk, while also stopping to take photographs and explore various sites. Throughout the Park we located small kiosks identifying our location, which eventually ended, leading me to the conclusion that we ventured far past the Park’s border. We walked and walked until we arrived at a World War II Memorial. We visited the various statues, and memorials before heading back to the Park.

Throughout our visit to the Heritage River State Park I especially was drawn to the spectacular Battleships, and the scenic boardwalk along the River. The Park unfortunately was quite dirty, and was scattered with geese poop. However, we did our best to avoid these unpleasantries, and enjoyed our brisk walk. As per our usual Adventure, it was filled with cheerful rolls, lots of posing, and enthusiasm for a new Adventure. I worked on some training with Wilma during today’s Adventure, and was quite proud of her work, a wonderful role model by her side. It was nice to see the sun out, and a slight increase in temperature for our New England Winter. Definitely glad we could explore the Fall River Heritage Park today (Rating: 3).

February 19, 2020 -Holyoke Heritage State Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Holyoke Heritage State Park in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Holyoke Heritage State Park includes: a Children’s Museum, the Volleyball Hall of fame, playgrounds, a Merry-Go-Round, and a Visitor Center which highlights Holyoke’s paper manufacturing history. There are pathways throughout the Park, including along the canal which once powered the local mills.

We had a unique Adventure to the Holyoke Heritage State Park on a windy New England day. The Park was small, and mostly suited for those with indoor plans in mind, especially ideal for children, volleyball enthusiasts, and those interested in industrial history. We wandered around every path in the Park, soon locating a map of the accessible paths. I peered in the windows viewing the Merry-Go-Round and the smiles of children playing. There were some murals, a large wheel, and a short, but lovely walk along the canal. We met many children who were eager to see the dogs, the only furry friends around! Wilma threw herself on the ground, rolling in eager anticipation of guests, while Shadow enjoyed his “normal” Adventure rolls. We spent about forty five minutes exploring the grounds of the property, Shadow and Wilma appreciating the smells of a new Adventure. Glad we could find a new location for a walk today (Blog will not be rated as only the grounds were explored).

Throwback Adventure – The Nashua River Rail Trail (Pepperell) -2015-2016

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!

Shadow, Buster, and I had many, many Adventures to The Nashua River Rail Trail between 2015-2016 while living locally. The Nashua River Rail Trail is an approximately eleven mile trail that runs from Nashua, New Hampshire to Ayer, Massachusetts. As expected it is built on a former railroad. The Nashua River Rail Trail is popular for biking, horseback riding, walking, fishing, and roller blading.

We had many wonderful Adventures to the Nashua River Rail Trail. Our walks always began in Pepperell, and I often wondered if we ventured into another town as we wandered for hours. We found trails off the paved trail to rivers, and scenic, quiet spots. One time we even spotted a horse, who was far from thrilled to spot two large dogs. Even after heading far off the trail to avoid the horse, it just about bucked the rider off. Luckily she stayed on and we returned to the path to continue our walk.

I found the Nashua River Rail Trail to be especially pretty in the Fall months, the sun streaming over the water. The trail did parallel homes at some points, but often was deep in the woods, quite peaceful. There were some simple fences along the trail, in one location framing a marsh-like area. I did my best to locate a variety of photographs from our many Adventures. Definitely a lovely rail trail to explore (Rating: 4).

February 9, 2020 – Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Saugus, Massachusetts. Saugus Iron Works is the Site of the first integrated ironworks in North America, begun by European iron makers. The Park is nine acres and includes: a museum, working waterwheels, a mill, a 17th century home, and a short nature trail along the marsh and woodlands. The Park is open seasonally.

We had a unique Adventure to the Saugus Iron Works. As I am recovering from a back injury (yes again!) and still being cautious with Wilma recuperating toenail, we decided to defer from a daytrip and instead explore the Saugus Iron Works. I had observed the sign on the highway several times, leading to our discovering of this National Park.

Saugus Iron Works was well marked, and easily located. Upon arriving we found one car in the parking lot, however had not expected it to be crowded due to the current off-season. Immediately we located a brochure providing additional information about the Site. We spent about an hour exploring the Park, checking out the water wheels, furnace area, and all structures in site. The Park was on the basin of the Saugus River adding some scenery, and songs of nature. There were some picturesque bridge structures, and a cement path leading the way. After finishing exploring the main features we took a stroll along the nature trail, very short, but a nice little add-on to our experience. I was pleased to see a blue sky, contrasting with the browns of winter.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma appreciated many rolls, while Wilma especially loved watching the ducks. Shadow and Wilma were eager to inhale the smells, and enthusiastic to explore. I was disappointed by the excessive geese poop along the grounds, but I guess that comes with New England winter. I found the Park simple, yet distinctive. I can imagine it is quite the learning experience when in-season with demonstrations, tours, and working wheels. So glad we were able to visit the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Park today (Adventure will not be rated as Park was closed for the season).

February 2, 2020 – Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the ground of Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House in Concord, Massachusetts. The Orchard House is most famous for being where Louisa May Alcott wrote and set Little Women back in the 1800s. The Alcott family resided in the home for many years. It currently is a historic museum.

We had a simple Adventure to the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House. Poor Wilma hurt her paw/claw on Friday so we rested yesterday, and just took a short, local walk today. I thought it would be fun to explore one of the many local historical homes, so I chose the Orchard House. So I decided not to research the home to see if it was dog friendly, as I assumed it was not, so of course we only explored the grounds. We had the property all to ourselves, walking around the property, peering in the windows, taking photographs, and of course enthusiastic rolls for Shadow and Wilma. There was not much to explore from the outdoors, but the buildings were quite scenic. I am sure, even more lovely in the non-winter months of New England. So not necessarily a “normal” Adventure but glad we could get out to add some variety to our weekend of rest. Definitely many historical hot spots in New England (Adventure will not be rated as only the grounds were explored).