November 3, 2019 – West Dennis Beach – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to West Dennis Beach in Dennis, Massachusetts. West Dennis Beach is a beach in Cape Cod that runs approximately three miles. It contains a playground, and is popular for windsurfing, swimming, and kite flying.

We had a relaxing Adventure to West Dennis Beach. I was delighted to find a beach on our Adventure to Cape Cod, although not necessarily a difficult task, something I had not studied ahead of time. Upon arrival we found many visitors walking in the parking lot, parallel to the beach. This appeared to leave the shoreline quite empty. We found a quiet spot, and began strolling, and exploring. There were plenty of empty horseshoe shells, various colors of seaweed, and numerous shells of all shapes and sizes. The beach was pristine, the sun shining, and the water leading as far as the eye could see. Wilma was extra-energetic, often attempting to run, dig and play, while Shadow remained calm. Both pups enjoyed the new smells, and this serene oasis.

Before we left we met some kind visitors who gave the pups lots of attention, and kindly offered to take our photograph. The perfect way to end our visit to the West Dennis Beach (Rating: 4).

November 3, 2019 – Scargo Tower – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Scargo Tower in Dennis, Massachusetts. The Tower is 30 feet tall, and is made out of cobblestone. It is located on one of the tallest hills in Cape Cod, providing stunning views of Cape Cod and Scargo Lake. The Tower is currently closed due to unsafe conditions, however funding has been approved for repairs.

We had a nice visit to the Scargo Tower on a beautiful Fall day. The Scargo Tower was quite difficult to locate, but was off of Scargo Hill Road as listed. There was no label to this Tower, but after driving by the entrance several times, I spotted it, and we arrived! Look for a green gate, (which may be open), to locate the entrance to this landmark. As I had read about the Tower in preparation I was aware that it was closed due to structural damage and vandalism. Nevertheless, I was still disappointed to see an unattractive metal fence surrounding the scenic, yet simple Tower. I guess necessary for those who may feel the need to trespass, however, not creating a pleasing photograph.

We still enjoyed our time at the Tower, walking around, and attempting to see the sights from the rustic white fence. Through glimpses between the brush it was clear that the Tower would provide spectacular views. Even without the panoramic sights we appreciated the moments, and chatted with various other visitors, one of who kindly offered to take our photograph. We might just have to visit the Scargo Tower again in the future to check out the advertised views (Rating: Tower will not be rated as it is currently closed)

October 28, 2019 – Doe Orchards – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Doe Orchards in Harvard, Massachusetts. Doe Orchards is a family owned business encompassing approximately twenty five acres of apple orchards, 10 acres of Christmas trees, and two acres of berries. As expected Doe Orchard is popular for fruit picking. There is also a small farm stand where you can purchase fresh fruit.

We had a fun Adventure to Doe Orchards. I had been thinking about apple picking for some time, and we finally fit it in to our schedule. This was our first visit to Doe Orchards, and as you might expect we were thrilled to find a local dog friendly apple orchard. We began at the stand getting the information, and choosing our apple bag(s). There was a map of the apple trees, and kind people to answer our questions.

After gathering our necessary information we headed off into the orchard to pick some apples. I was excited to participate in this Fall New England past time. I am far from an expert on apples, but was excited about the process, and anticipation of some apple filled baked goods. We weaved in and out of the trees, simple, but scenic. The trees were marked by color, which were then labeled on stands throughout. Definitely a very organized and clearly marked farm. It appeared some of the varieties were well picked, but I was quite pleased with the choices, the company, and the experience. There were few other visitors on this grey Monday evening.

The dogs appeared quite pleased to have a weekend evening out on the town. Shadow enjoyed some rests in the grass, while Wilma watched our every move. My Mom and I chatted, and took some time wandering before we filled our bag(s). So glad we discovered the wonderful Doe Orchards. And just to add for those local dog followers, dogs are not permitted during their berry picking, but thankfully are welcome during apple picking (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Plymouth, 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 May 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the town of Plymouth in Massachusetts. Plymouth is a coastal town in Southern Massachusetts. It is famous for the site of the first Pilgrim settlement and contains famous landmarks including: Plymouth Rock, and the Mayflower.

We had a fun Adventure to Plymouth back on a cool May morning. We explored the Harbor area, including parts of Brewster Garden, and of course checked out the Plymouth Rock. The Plymouth Rock was much smaller then expected, but it was still nice to view this important landmark of history. We wandered around for awhile checking out the boats, and taking a nice long walk. It was challenging locating old photographs, but I found several below which are a good summary of our visit. We definitely will be back to explore more thoroughly, and share a more detailed account of our visit (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Plymouth Plymouth 3 Plymouth 2 Plymouth 4

Throwback Adventure – Green Briar Nature Center

In April 2014 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Green Briar Nature Center in Sandwich, Massachusetts. The Green Briar Nature Center is located adjacent to the well known Briar Patch of Thornton Burgess’s stories. As you may know Burgess was a native of Sandwich, and is famous for his books, including Peter the Rabbit. The Center is located along Smiling Pond, and includes interpretive trails and a wildflower garden. The Center also offer nature programs, and contains a “jam kitchen”.

We had an enjoyable Adventure to the Green Briar Nature Center. We were visiting in off-season, so had the entire Center to ourselves. It was brown time of year in New England, but we spotted several tulips, and purple flowers on our walk. I especially recall relaxing on the dock, and the boys enjoying a dip in the water, almost sending me right off the dock. We relaxed and wandered around the premises, and found ourselves a bit disappointed that the jam kitchen was closed for the season. I can imagine that this Center must be quite stunning when the wildflower gardens are in bloom, so we might just have to visit again. Glad we were able to explore the Green Briar Nature Center (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Throwback Adventure – Hopkington State Park – Massachusetts

Hopkington State Park is a Park located in Hopkington, Massachusetts. It is located on the Hopkington Reservoir, no longer a water source. The Park encompasses 1500 acres of forest and is a popular area for boating, swimming, and hiking. There is a fee to enter the Park in-season but Massachusetts State Park passes are also accepted.

Shadow, Buster, and I had numerous Adventures to Hopkington State Park, and on some visits My Mom joined us, while on one occasion my cousin and her pup joined us as well. We have always gone in phases with local Parks, and for several years this was one of our favorites. Although dogs were not allowed on the public beach (in-season), we always found side areas to swim. Over time we found favorite spots away from the hustle and bustle of a popular beach location. The Reservoir was beautiful, framed by colorful kayaks, and docks. I loved the view of the circular island not too far out from shore. We mostly visited Hopkington State Park to swim, but on one occasion I went kayaking, while several times enjoyed some of the trails. We really have loved our Adventures to Hopkington State Park, and will definitely have to take Wilma to check out the scene. I gathered some photos from various visits, and although I am sure I have more, I think it is a good representation of our time spent at Hopkington State Park. We definitely will be back for a future Adventure (Rating: 4).

September 28, 2019 – The Wayside Inn Historic District – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Wayside Inn Historic District in Sudbury, Massachusetts. The Wayside Inn is said to be the oldest, continually operating Inn in the country. The Historic District has nine buildings, including: The Wayside Inn, The Grist Mill, The Martha Mary Chapel, and The Schoolhouse. The property encompasses 100 acres of property including these buildings, trails, field, and gardens. The area is popular for weddings, visitors, and photography.

We had an interesting Adventure to The Wayside Inn Historic District. Upon arrival I was shocked to see crowds, and crowds of people soon discovering it was due to the Colonial Faire and Muster of Fyfes and Drums Event. This led to quite the complicated parking situation, however, we eventually found a parking spot and began our journey. I had planned to walk the Innkeeper Loop, however never located the trail, so decided to wander where our eyes, and noses (haha) guided. We explored The outdoor landmarks, including: The Grist Mill, The Martha Chapel, and the Schoolhouse, and wandered along several trails in the vacinity. We chatted with guests and appreciated the unique Fyfe music. I was impressed that Wilma was hardly phased by the loud drums from various directions, and although Shadow had a couple nervous moments, he overall was quite relaxed.

The day was a warm one so we did not do any strenuous walking, but more exploring. Wilma loved greeting all guests possible, participated in excessive roles, and almost literally knocked me off my feet jumping on a gigantic boulder along the trail. Shadow loved his “normal “Adventure rolls, and was quite satisfied with his dip in the brook. I loved the Fyfe music along the way, and appreciated the unique atmosphere and location. There were scenic little spots along the pond, pretty paths along the brook, and a couple simple bridges throughout. I was quite ecstatic to see many signs of fall, with colorful leaves along the way, and piles of leaves along the trails. Our favorite time of year has just about arrived!! And although the sun was not too cooperative for photographs I still posted a variety below. So glad we could visit the Wayside Inn Historic District today (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Kayaking – Massachusetts

In the Summer of 2017 Shadow and I embarked on a peaceful kayaking Adventure. We had befriended a woman and her dog at a local park, and were thrilled that she offered to let us utilize her kayak. Unlike you might expect my water loving Shadow is generally not a fan of boats. He does not appreciate the rocking of a boat or any surface that brings uncertainty (smart boy!). However, I somehow was able to convince him to board the kayak, and we graceful kayaked around the lake. It was a very special memory I have with my Shadow. I seriously considered purchasing a kayak at the time, although that dream never came to fruition. However, we had a lovely day relaxing ON the lake, and of course Shadow appreciated some swims before and after our kayak Adventure. I was grateful that our friend took a couple photographs and a video (even if it’s sideways – oops) to memorialize this event forever. Definitely a special Adventure that I will always treasure!

September 2, 2019 – Farmer’s Market – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I met my Mom at a local Farmer’s Market for an afternoon Adventure. Farmer’s Markets are generally very dog friendly, and are great locations to purchase fresh produce, home made products, and many other items. This Fair was a bit smaller then I hoped yet it was fun to add some variety to the week. We purchased some strawberries, dog ice cream (of course!) and some Samos for dinner. We even found a vendor that had dog toys to share, a full water bowl, and gave Shadow and Wilma plenty of love. Shadow and Wilma received lots of attention and curious questions from other visitors. We enjoyed our visit the the Farmers Market.

August 25, 2019 -Bay Circuit Trail – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I took a walk on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Bay Circuit Trail is a recreation trail of over 200 miles, crossing 37 towns and linking many parks and landmarks. It is popular for activities including: biking, paddling, horseback riding, and running.

We had a simple Adventure on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Trail was a dirt path surrounded by greenery. There was no change in scenery, no color, and little variety, creating quite a monotonous and dull scene. The Trail often paralleled private homes, however remained quiet from voices, and activity. We saw several bikers throughout the afternoon. Shadow and Wilma appreciated the new smells along the way, always so eager to explore!

On the way back I decided to take a side trail that led us over to the Minuteman National Park. This path was extremely overgrown and often I was pushing plants and prickers aside leading the way for my best buds. It was great to see a bit of change in landscape with some logs on part of the path, an unusual metal structure on the side, and bright pink flowers from afar. However I was quite pleased when we arrived at the scenic Minuteman National Park, ending our journey on the Bay Circuit Trail. I was quite unimpressed with the Trail, yet wonder as a walker if I can really give this Trail justice, as we traversed far less then the 200 plus miles. The idea of biking to landmarks is quite extraordinarily but on foot one can only go so far. Therefore I will not rate this The Bay Circuit Trail as I was still grateful to find a new place for a walk. A beautiful day for an Adventure!

PS – If you would like to read more on my blog about Minuteman National Park you can search for this in the search box.