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).

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).