July 6, 2024 – Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard in Walpole, Massachusetts. Rita’s is a privately owned restaurant chain. It originated in Philadelphia, but now can be found in various states. Rita’s carries Italian ice, custard, and various other frozen goodies. There is only one location of Rita’s in Massachusetts.

We had a delicious Adventure to Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard. I was excited to find a Rita’s in Massachusetts, and with a drive through! Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard brings back happy memories of my college days (in Pennsylvania) where we would go for 75 cent Italian Ice treats. Boy have times changed as it was far from 75 cents. However, I was still thrilled to enjoy this frozen treat.

We arrived to find no one else in line, so I decided to utilize the outdoor window. I ordered a watermelon gelati and ordered the pups a small custard. Rita’s did have an option for a “pup cup” (whip cream) as well, but since Wilma and Gus have had several recently (shhh 🙂 ) I figured we would change things up. The location was very simple, but I was not there for the scene, but instead the treats. I decided to go to a nearby grassy area for the pups to devour their custard, just with a little more space, and away from the road. They loved their custards, as you may expect! My watermelon gelati was beyond amazing – probably the best desert I have ever had – just delicious! Although I wish Rita’s was closer, it probably is a good thing that it is not (haha). So glad we could enjoy Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard, while I could reminisce (Rating: Location and Dog Ice Cream – 4, Watermelon Gelati – 5)

Sadly I got Ice Cream on my phone “lense” and did not realize it until afterwards, but I had to include something of Wilma and Gus enjoying their custard, so you will have to settle for a fuzzy video today 🙂

June 9, 2024 – Erikson’s Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I adventured to Erikson’s Ice Cream in Maynard, Massachusetts. Erikson’s Ice Cream is a family run business founded in 1937. Erikson’s sells ice cream, vegan ice cream, and other ice cream related products.

We had a delicious adventure to Erikson’s Ice Cream. I have been craving ice cream this weekend and today was finally the day! We headed out in the middle of the rain as my plan was to avoid the crowds, and surprisingly we found not one other customer there. The grounds and landscaping of Erikson’s was very simple, but there was seating with umbrellas available. I actually arrived in the middle of a downpour so ran to the covered window as the pups waited eagerly in the car. I ordered a coffee ice cream with whip cream and two dog ice creams. The dog ice creams were very tiny but had a scrumptious treat in the middle and were free!! I was hoping to have the dogs come out of the car to eat but as it was pouring that plan did not occur. However, both Wilma and Gus devoured the delicious desert and had not one complaint (haha)! My coffee ice cream was delicious- yum! So glad we could have our first ice cream of the soon to be summer today at Erikson’s Ice Cream! (This blog will not be rated)

May 25, 2024 – Kayaking – Long Lake, Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to Long Lake in Littleton, Massachusetts for our first kayak trip of the season. Long Lake is a 113 acre Great Pond with depths between 8-22 feet. There is a sandy beach, conservation trails around part of the lake, and homes on several sides of the lake. There is a boat launch next to the beach.

We had a refreshing adventure to Long Lake. Long Lake has a special place to me as we frequented often as children, and it is where I learned to swim. I also have enjoyed the trails, especially with Shadow as he loved the water. Upon arrival I was told the beach facilities were closing so I did not have to purchase a day pass – yay! As soon as I sat in the kayak Gus jumped into my lap and off, we went.

Our kayaking adventure was just right. The Lake is not too big so there was plenty of time to explore every part of the water. The farther we got from the beach the quieter it got, we heard birds, frogs, and the occasional voice from across the water. We saw one turtle, lots of yellow lilies, endless green foliage, and birds. It was so relaxing, and even Gus seemed quite at peace, he really loves being on the water. So glad we could head out on our first kayaking trip of the year today (Rating: 4).

May 10, 2024 – Tip Top Tulips – Massachusetts

Tonight, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Tip Top Tulips. Tip Top Tulips is a seasonal event on Felix’s Family Farm in Ipswitch, Massachusetts. Tickets are required for this Tulip event and can be purchased online for $12. Tulips can also be picked for an additional $1 each.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Tip Top Tulips. Wilma and Gus arrived with a loud greeting in the car, partially due to the check-in being next to endless farm animals. However, I appreciated that the Farm was not phased and after that moment we had a peaceful evening, staying far from the animals. The Tulip Garden was absolutely gorgeous with endless colors, and scenic photo ops. It was overall quiet, and we only saw one other dog in the garden. We spent about an hour and a half walking around. The pups posed and enjoyed endless bites of grass (haha!). We arrive at about 6:30 and left when the sun went down. It just lovely, and although the weather was cool it was just perfect for an evening walk. I did not want to leave as it was just right! So glad we could visit Tip Top Tulips at Felix Farm, and grateful they allowed dogs (Rating: 5).

March 31, 2024 – Rebar Sculpture Exhibit – Massachusetts

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Rebar Sculpture Exhibit in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Rebar Sculpture Exhibit promotes the work of French Artist Joel “Djo” Vallon, featuring three pieces: a whale, penguin, and a chimp. This artwork was initiated and made possible by businessman Pierre Coll, and can be found at 20 North Park Avenue in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

We had a unique Adventure to the Rebar Sculpture Exhibit. I found out about these sculptures when searching for the next artwork that would be replacing the ever-popular fiberglass seashells that previously covered Plymouth. Although not the replacement art, these sculptures looked lovely and just right for a stop on the way back from our local walk. I was planning on looking them up, however actually drove by them on the way to our walk, so had no issues locating them. I was immediately drawn to the chimp, so detailed, and really just adorable. We checked out each structure, and of course I could not resist taking photographs of the nearby daffodils, finally some hope and color of spring. The exhibit was just the three sculptures, but just what we needed for the day. Wilma and Gus posed, while Gus noted every person and noise in our vicinity. So glad we could check out Mr. Vallon’s Rebar sculptures (this blog will not be rated).

March 9, 2024 – Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Cape Cod is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeastern corner of Massachusetts. It is a popular summer destination known for the laid-back lifestyle. Cape Cod draws tourists for its beaches, lighthouses, ponds, villages, and the seafood shacks and restaurants.

We had a cloudy, yet well-needed Adventure to Cape Cod. It had been awhile since we have been on a day trip so we were long ready for some fun! Our stops today included: the Sagamore Recreation Area, Drummer Boy Park, Scargo Tower, Nauset Light, Coast Guard Beach, Sandwich Center, and a nameless beach along Provincetown Harbor. We started our day with a long walk along the Cape Cod Canal Bike Trail. Although the scenery is simple on the Canal, it is the perfect place for a stroll. From there we went from stop to stop enjoying the fresh air and exploring, taking photographs, and of course posing grandly (haha!) Our favorite parts were strolling on the beaches, and exploring the leftover shells, crabs, and creatures. Both pups were immediately energized on the beach, Wilma running in circles and trying to play, while Gus digging wildly, so fun to watch. Although I would not consider myself a huge fan of Cape Cod, I can say that the beaches with dunes are beyond spectacular. So glad we could enjoy a daytrip in Cape Cod today (this blog will not be rated).

March 3, 2024 – Dog Treats from Brew’d Awakening

Yesterday Wilma and Gus were able to devour two treats each from Brew’d Awakenings. I had some food ordered from this restaurant and was thrilled to add some dog treats to the order. Brew’d Awakenings is a coffee and catering shop in Lowell, Massachusetts. They specialize in coffee and tea and have some limited food selections.

Wilma and Gus loved their treats from Brew’d Awakening. Upon receiving them I was quite curious and somewhat perplexed about the shape and texture, quite different from the photograph displayed. However, I can promise that Wilma and Gus were happy with this snack, no matter how it looked (haha). Our adventures were local again this weekend, so this was our new adventure for the weekend. We look forward to heading out on some new locations in the near future. (This blog will not be rated).

December 17, 2023 – Ponyhenge – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to Ponyhenge in Lincoln, Massachusetts. Ponyhenge is a small area on a wide-open pasture filled with hobby horses. These horses reportedly began appearing in 2010 with one lone horse and continues to grow. They are periodically re-arranged, and have become a mysterious local attraction.

We had a unique Adventure to Ponyhenge. I have gotten into a pattern every three or four weeks of taking Gus on a local walk on his own, as he really relies on big sister Wilma. I only do this on a day I do not have to work, and although I always feel guilty, Wilma seems to enjoy a restful nap, and does not seem phased. So today, after our local walk Gus and I headed to Ponyhenge. Upon arrival we found these pony toys to be decorated for the holidays. Although Gus did well on our walk, he definitely did not seem to appreciate being in a new location without the comfort of big sister Wilma. However, he quickly posed for a snapshot, and we made it a quick stop. It was fun to view this unique area (this blog will not be rated).

December 9, 2023 – Assabet River Rail Trail (Hudson) – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Assabet River Trail in Maynard, Massachusetts. The Assabet River Rail Trail is approximately thirteen miles (upon completion) and runs from Acton to Marlborough.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Assabet River Rail Trail. I was planning on heading out on a daytrip but due to some family matters decided to make it a local day. We parked in a formal parking lot for the trail, I believe on Main Street, as it was not too far from downtown Hudson. I was quite pleased as the sun was out, something not predicted by the weather report. The trail was very quiet with limited visitors, and I do not believe we saw a bike, which was quite nice. The trail was parallel to the road, but enough space that it was comfortable. We found little things along the route, including an old train, wooden carvings, a large mural, and some unique colors in various artwork. Both Wilma and Gus were quite enthusiastic, although Wilma did lay down for a quick nap along the way, and of course enjoyed her traditional rolls. Gus noticed every smell and on occasion appreciating jumping on Wilma because it is always time to play. It was a simple trail, but just the right way to start the weekend. We even received a “your dogs are so well behaved” compliment which always makes my day. So glad we could adventure to Assabet River Rail Trail in Hudson today (this blog will not be rated).

November 26, 2023 – Jason Russell House – Massachusetts

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the Jason Russell House in Arlington, Massachusetts. The Jason Russell house is the location of the bloodiest battle of the American Revolution that occurred on April 19, 1775. Jason Russell built this house in the 1740s, while some cosmetic changes were added in the 19th century. Tours of the home are available seasonally.

We had a simple Adventure to the Jason Russell House after a weekend of local walks. I guess I cheated a little on this blog, as dogs of course are only allowed on the grounds, but I still enjoy visiting historic homes in the area. The home was located on a busy corner of Arlington, but we were able to find parking next door after circling around the neighborhood once. We hopped out and wandered around the grounds, although really not much to see form the outdoors. It is sad to see the colors fading more and more as we head into the winter season. However, glad we could find a new historic home to visit and photograph (this blog will not be rated).