October 8, 2018 – The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages.

We had a splendid Adventure to the Arnold Arboretum. So fun to find a local Arboretum that both allows and welcomes dogs. We spent about three hours exploring the trails, paths, and roads throughout the park. The gates were closed to cars, which was a huge plus. We begin our journey heading toward the Fog x Hill, containing a “fog sculpture” made up of pure water vapor. Little did I know at the time that this was a man made feature, so quite magical at fog appeared to have taken over the trail. I tried to capture this on film, but we arrived close to the location when the fog was almost dispersed. Still a fun and unique “show” that captivated our attention.

Next we headed toward the Leventritt Shrub and Vine Garden, walking along a trail through the woods, along a scenic wooden fence. On arrival to this Garden the area opened up and we headed toward the Garden. Our ear was drawn to peaceful Asian music and the dance of two performing their cultural art. The music was relaxing, calm, and appealing to the ear. We watched the couple perform for a bit, snapped a quick video and headed on through the scenic garden. Most of the flowers were past their bloom, but I was able to catch a couple beautiful buds on film.

After leaving the Shrub and Vine Garden we traversed various trails and areas throughout the park, including: the beautiful Conifer trail, The Bradley Rosaceous Collection, the ponds, and many additional pathways. Although it was definitely off season for this beautiful park, there were still gorgeous scenery throughout. Most of the time you could not even tell you were in the city, instead feeling one with nature. We definitely will have to come back to the Arnold Arboretum in the high season seasons of bloom. So glad we were able to enjoy the Arnold Arboretum today (Rating: 4).

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October 7, 2018 – DeCordova Sculpture Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the DeCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln, Massachusetts. This was the second time Shadow and I had visited as we had been there with Buster, My Brother, and niece in February of 2016. The DeCordova Sculpture Park encompasses nearly 30 acres including: landscaped lawn, gardens, and forests. It is on the edge of Flint’s Pond, and contains up to 60 sculptures at a time. The collection includes art by significant twentieth and twenty-first-century artists. DeCordova also has an indoor museum, gift shop, and cafe.

We had an artsy Adventure to the DeCordova Sculpture Park in Lincoln, Massachusetts. On our first Adventure there is was a very cold day, while today, it was an unusually hot Fall day. We were excited to spend another day exploring. We began our time at the Decordova Sculpture Park at a trail along the Lake, the beautiful Fall leaves adorning the trail. We hiked for a bit to get some steady exercise, before turning around and heading to the check out the Sculptures. We were provided a sculpture map on admission, but decided to be spontaneous and wander with our senses. The Sculptures varied from tall, to short, from large to small, mixed with different material and colors. We sometimes could visually see the theme, while others sculptures were quite abstract. We looped around the museum, and through the beautiful gardens. It was fun to walk around the large property and search for the Sculptures.

There were benches throughout the property to sit, and relax. We lounged at one location to sip some water, and a rest from the heat. We then continued wandering around stopping to take photographs of many of the sculptures that crossed our path. Such an appealing park full of art, and culture. So glad we could visit this magnificent park, a special treasure in our New England (Rating: 4).

Today: October 7, 2018

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February 2016 (I may add some additional photographs at a future date)

September 13, 2018 -White Farms Homemade Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to White Farms Homemade Ice Cream in Gloucester, Massachusetts. White Farms Homemade Ice Cream just recently opened in April of 2018.

We had a delicious Adventure to the White Farms Homemade Ice Cream stand. I was hardly up the steps to the window when the employee asked if the dogs could have some ice cream. Of course I agreed, and Shadow and Wilma quickly gobbled up their ice cream as we both watched the adorable licks.

The menu was unique with flavors grouped by colors. I was anticipating ice cream, but decided to order an orange sherbert shake, as there were no seating opportunities for guests. The perfect to-go treat that I savored on our drive home, just delicious (Rating: dog ice cream: 4, Shake: 4, Location: 3).

September 13, 2018 – Stage Fort Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. In July 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I also visited Stage Fort Park. These types of Adventures are my favorite, the Adventure where all three of my best friends had the opportunity to explore the same location! Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed.

Stage Fort Park is a historic park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It was in 1623 that Gloucester’s first settlers set up fishing “staging” on this land. The area was fortified until the Spanish-American War. The Park includes: a gazebo, several beaches, recreational facilities, a privately owned restaurant (open seasonally), and gorgeous coastal views.

We had a lovely Adventure to Fort Stage Park. I was humored viewing photographs from our Adventure three years ago noting the similarities in both the weather, and our “hot spots”. Highlights of both Adventures included: relaxing on the beach, digging in the sand, and enjoying the spectacular coastal views. I also found myself drawn to the gigantic rock, and the unique cement stairs along the paths. We walked around the park savoring the spectacular coastal views, climbing on the boulders, and checking out the canons, and Fort area.

After exploring for a bit we headed to the beach. Wilma dipped into the water, deeper then most days, although soon becoming spooked by the waves. However, Shadow showed no fear, enjoying sitting, and dipping in to the ocean water. The beach was inspiring, and relaxing, always a peaceful oasis. On our first journey we watched the scuba divers, while on yesterday’s Adventure there was a low flying helicopter exercise on display. The park overall was simple, but had spectacular rocky coastal scenery, and some unique features that we thoroughly enjoyed (Rating: 3).

September 13, 2018

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July 25, 2015

September 13, 2018 – Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted an Adventure to the Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge was built within the last twenty five years and is just forty three feet in length.

I debated posting on our Adventure today, as we technically never made it to the Bridge. We drove back and forth on Magnolia Road before I finally located the Bridge out of the corner of my eye. The Bridge was on the land of a private residential home. The home was located on a busy street, so snapping a photograph from the car was not even an option. I did not know that it was located on private property, so was very disappointed. Even Shadow and Wilma seemed eager, and then confused, as I drove back and forth searching for the Bridge, never arriving for our Adventure. So my advise to you today is, do Not Adventure to the Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge, as you will NEVER arrive (Rating: 1)

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September 7, 2018 – Bancroft Tower – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Bancroft Tower in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Bancroft Tower is a natural stone, and granite structure that appears like an ancient castle. The Tower was built in 1900 in memory of George Bancroft, a secretary in the Navy, diplomat, historian and a native of Worcester, Massachusetts. The Tower was built by Brancoft’s childhood friend, Stephen Salisbury, and is situated in the Salisbury Park. The Tower is open for tours during certain days in October.

We had a magical Adventure to this spectacular, castle-like structure. Although another cloudy and dark day, we were pleased to feel like Fall is just on the horizon. Parking was available next to the Tower, and we had this intriguing landmark all to ourselves. We walked around the castle, through the arches, up the stairs, again, and again taking in this majestic Tower. The structure made you feel as though you were transformed into medieval times, away from the worries of the modern world. Definitely one of those places where you could stay for hours, such a unique, and extraordinary location. There were no colors, landscaping, or any additional perks, however our fascination with the structure was all we needed to feel fulfilled. So glad we were able to find the Bancroft Tower to explore on our adventure today (Rating: 4).

September 6, 2018 – Kimball Farm – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I went to Kimball’s Farm in Westford, Massachusetts. We have been to Kimball Farm many times over the years.
Kimball’s Farm began as a dairy farm in 1908, with the Kimball family selling milk whole sale. In 1939 they opened an ice cream parlor, and began making handmade ice cream. Kimball Farm has grown over the years, and now has three additional locations. The Kimball Farm continues to be family owned, and has expanded to sell food, and provide entertainment, including: a zip line, a golf course, a driving range, bumper boats, volleyball courts, a country store, and a seafood and grill shack.

I was excited to FINALLY head to Kimball’s for our first visit of the season. We were lucky to find a moment when the lines were short, and although a cloudy, dark day, the weather was just right. I ordered my favorite peppermint stick, and of course two plates of dogilicious ice cream. The pups guided us to our seats, and we quickly devoured our tasty ice cream. It is always a memorable experience being at Kimball’s as it was a place we frequented, growing up locally. Almost a little too crowded nowadays, but we still visit once or twice a year, and treasure many wonderful memories with family and friends. It is really unbelievable how it has grown, even a declared tourist attraction in the area.

After finishing up our ice cream, we decided to walk around to check on the latest additions to this marvelous family dynasty. Definitely an Adventure strolling by the goats as Wilma squealed, and barked, even standing on her back paws to catch a glimpse. We carefully made it past and on to the path beyond. We peaked around a bit before heading back to the car. Always a lovely, and tasty Adventure at Kimball’s Farm (Rating: 5, dog ice cream: 4).

PS – I could not resist including our Buster in the midst of today’s photographs. He had special times at Kimball’s too! We sure do miss him!

Throwback Adventure – Cranberry Bog – September 2013

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.

On September 8, 2013 Shadow, Buster, and I visited the Cranberry Bog in Carlisle, Massachusetts. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. The Cranberry Bog is also partially located in Chelmsford. The towns bought the property in 1986. It is now used for conservation and recreation purposes. The Carlisle section of the land includes 40 acres of a working Cranberry Bog. The property has wooded uplands, and wetlands with several ponds. There are trails throughout the property.

I was excited to visit this unique location. Who would think a Cranberry Bog would be a dog-friendly, and an off-leash hot-spot. We enjoyed explored the trails, viewing the Bog, and taking in the colorful landscape. Shadow and Buster enjoyed swimming in the ponds, a great option to cool down on a warm Fall day. We saw several other people and dogs throughout, but found the park to be quiet, and peaceful. One of my favorite photographs of Shadow and Buster came on this day, both posing at this scenic spot. We had a fun time exploring the Cranberry Blog (Rating: 4)

Cranberry bog

August 21, 2018 (Part II) – Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor – Massachusetts

Today, Shadow and I visited Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor in Marshfield, Massachusetts, Part II of our afternoon of Adventures. This was a rare, and unique journey as Wilma spent the day with her puppy friends, while Shadow and I ventured on today’s Adventure. As those of you who follow my blog already know, I am recovering from surgery, and I felt this was a good first step back into our Adventure. Shadow is super well-behaved, and extra calm, while Wilma has constant energy and unexpected wild moments. While I love every moment of Wilma’s entertaining energy, I decided to jump back into our Adventures with my Shadow

Rocky Roads Ice Cream Parlor has 26 flavors of ice cream, including soft serve and slush. This appears to be a new ice cream shop in the area.

If you have followed our blog you know that we cannot turn down some tasty ice cream on a summer day. Shadow waited eagerly while they prepared his soft serve, and I then decided to order coffee ice cream with whip cream. Shadow gobbled his up quickly, while I savored every bite. A super delicious treat to wrap up our wonderful Adventure in Marshfield, Massachusetts (Rating: 4).

August 21, 2018 (Part I) – Rexhame Beach – Massachusetts

Today Shadow and I journeyed to Rexhame Beach in Marshfield, Massachusetts. This was a rare, and unique journey as Wilma spent the day with her puppy friends, while Shadow and I ventured on today’s Adventure. As those of you who follow my blog already know, I am recovering from surgery, and I felt this was a good first step back into our Adventure. Shadow is super well-behaved, and extra calm, while Wilma has constant energy and unexpected wild moments. While I love every moment of Wilma’s entertaining energy, I decided to jump back into our Adventures with my Shadow

Rexhame Beach is on the South Shore of Massachusetts. It is one of the few coastal New England beaches that permit dogs all year around. There are also trails nearby, included along the South River. A fee is required to park during the Summer months.

We had a wonderful, relaxing, and uplifting Adventure to the Rexhame Beach. It was so nice to be out exploring again, and spending a summer afternoon at the Beach. I was stunned on arrival to see the parking lot was predominantly empty. Although it was a cloudy, cooler day, it was a pleasant surprise to find such a quiet location. We walked through the fence near the dunes before arriving on the Beach. The Beach was covered with colorful round rocks, adding texture and color to the sand. The waves were medium in size, but roaring, and current- driven. Shadow appeared uneasy with the waves, but we waded a bit before finding our perfect sandy spot on the beach. Shadow quickly enjoying rolling in the sand, digging, and some extra-relaxed napping. We spent time, taking in the sounds and sites, letting the worries of life fade away. The peace of a tranquil beach setting cannot be underestimated. Pure perfection!

After spending some time at the Beach we found a trail leading over to the “River”. We were told about the “River” by a fellow dog lover, and were awed by this unique feature. Shadow quickly jogged to the River, heading in for an immediate swim. We met some other dogs enjoying romping off-leash. There were benches along the trail, and some colorful flowers. Although nothing fancy, I really loved this find, and I think Shadow too.

We were so happy to have a wonderful adventure, and find a dog friendly beach. So glad to be headed back to our life of Adventures. We missed the company of our little Wilma Mae but we still had a fabulous afternoon exploring Rexhhame Beach, and the nearby trails (Rating: Beach – 3, Experience – 5).