December 31, 2018 – Manchaug Falls – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Manchaug Falls in Sutton, Massachusetts. The Manchaug Falls is located in the village in Manchaug, part of the town of Sutton. It feeds the Mumford River.

So our Adventure today took a detour when we arrived at our planned destination to see signs of hunting in the area. I was extremely disappointed to find this, but felt it was best to not venture on the trails but to return in a safer season. Soooo I was pleased to find the Manchaug Falls not to far from our original destination.

We began our Adventure to the Manchaug Falls by parking near where I had read it was located. We soon were able to locate the Falls by following roaring sound of the water, guiding us to the Mumford River Trail. The Trail was a short with benches along the path, over the River. We strolled along enjoying the sounds of the rushing water, before arriving at the Falls. The Falls was wide in length, but short in height, flowing with steady, even water. The thunderous music was quite spectacular to our ears. Overall the area was brown and dull, but the Falls itself was quite lovely. A simple, but pleasant detour on our Adventure today (Rating: 3)

December 23, 2018 – Marginal Way – Maine

Yesterday we Adventured to Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine. This was at least our third trip to Marginal Way as we have also been there with Buster and my Mom. Marginal Way is a well known, coastal, cliff walk along the Atlantic Ocean. The path is approximately 1.25 miles in length, looping along the coast. It is lined with benches, lovely landscaping, and has beach areas along the way. It is dog friendly from October 1 – March 31.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Marginal Way. We picked an exceptionally breezy, and sun-filled winter day. We were pleased to find very few visitors, leaving us to especially enjoy the tranquility of this magnificent trail. The water was crashing along the rocks, creating a lovely song, and quite a picturesque scene. We walked along the trail, taking time to climb a bit on the rocks, and of course snap some photographs along the way. Unlike most of our previous visits the tide was in, leaving no sandy beach to play, or spots to sun bath in the warm sun. However, we did wander down to one of the beach areas, filled with perfectly rounded rocks. Fond memories of Buster and Shadow playing on the beach filled my heart as we enjoyed this spot. We did not stay long in this area, as the rocks were a bit unsteady.

We then headed up the stairs from the beach, continuing on the trail. Approximately halfway down the path we arrived at the little wreath adorned lighthouse adding quite the scenic touch on this coastal stroll. We of course took some photographs of this lighthouse, before returning to our walk. Although we often walked at a good pace, we did not miss a moment to enjoy the full sensory experience.

After finishing the trail, we wandered through the vacant, holiday adorned town, before heading over to Ogunquit Beach. We were disappointed to see that dogs were not allowed, so walked nearby viewing the vast blue colors of the sea. We soon headed back to the Marginal Way finding the “footpath”, an area of the path that is separate from the main trail. We then returned to the main sidewalk back to stroll along the cliff-lined trail. Although the brown Winter time of year, the beauty of the Ocean, rock covered cliffs, and symphony of the crashing shore makes this location a one of a kind experience. Definitely one of the best coastal strolls you will find in New England. I cannot even imagine how beautiful it must become in seasons of bloom. Below you will find a collage of our different visits, all together. If you are ever in the area do not miss this fabulous location (Rating: 5)

Throwback Adventure – Crescent Beach – February 2018

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.

In February 2018 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Crescent Beach. Crescent Beach is a beach on the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It is one mile long beach with a gentle surf, popular for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I had a tranquil visit to Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Our luck was great with bearable temperatures, deep into the New England Winter. We stayed in the area so spent sunset, sunrise, and may times during the day on this pristine beach. We walked, walked, and walked up and down the beach. The colors of the water, and sunset were absolutely magnificent. Shells covered the beach, patterns of ice shaped the tidal pools, while clouds perfectly filled the sky. Shadow enjoyed his freedom off leash, while Wilma found herself obsessed with shells, and digging in the sand. Wilma and Shadow played often, melting my heart. It was so lovely and so invigorating, I really could not get enough. We were extra pleased to almost always have the beach to ourselves. This was without a doubt one of the Adventures that will have special place in my heart forever. Definitely a Beach we plan to return to in the future(Rating: 5)

Throwback Adventure – Nickerson State Park – Massachusetts

In April of 2014, Shadow, Buster, My Mom and I Adventured to Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts, a town in Cape Cod. Brewster State Park is a Public Recreation Area with over 1,900 acres of land. It is popular for camping, fishing, boating, wooded trails, and swimming.

We had a magnificent Adventure to Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts. As you will know if you are a follower of my blog my memories of our Throwback Adventures is generally not as detailed as current posts. However, I remember absolutely loving this beautiful park. We found the perfect trail around one of the gorgeous ponds, with spots along the path to sit and relax. The boys enjoyed some swims, naps along the way, and of course an energetic hike.

I was inspired by the boys’ desire for numerous swims, so I decided to wade far in the water (in my jeans!) so the boys could enjoy the nice refreshing water. Glad my Mom was able to capture a shot of this moment. I was reminded in viewing the photographs how Buster always used to love chewing on sticks along our journeys. We sure do miss his enthusiasm for our Adventures! One of the reasons I really do love sharing our Throwback Adventures. Nickerson State Park was definitely a lovely location, and I do hope to visit again in the future.

December 10, 2018 – Winter Island Park (Includes Fort Pickering Lighthouse) – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Winter Island Park in Salem, Massachusetts. This is the second time Shadow and I have visited this Park, while the first trip for Wilma. Winter Island Park encompasses: camping opportunities, Waikiki Beach, Fort Pickering and the Historic Fort Pickering Lighthouse. Fort Pickering is a 17th Century Fort which was the coastal defense and military barracks for Salem Harbor. Fort Pickering Lighthouse was later built adjacent to the Fort in 1871.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Winter Island Park on a sunny Winter day. Shadow and I had been to the Park once before, and I soon had memories flashing through my mind. Our initial visit was the first new Adventure we journeyed to after Buster had passed. Our hearts were heavy but it was wonderful seeing Shadow enjoy a new Adventure. Both our trips occurred on December days. On our trip yesterday we were pleased to see the sun was out, although not ideal for photographs, it definitely lead to the perfect beach day. We began our visit traversing the trail along the coast. We stopped at the docks, and at the beach areas along the way. The sand was covered with shells, and the sun beautifully shimmering on the sea. We took our time, Shadow and Wilma enjoying some rolls, digging, and play-time along the way.

After traversing the trails, and exploring the beach areas we wandered around Fort Pickering. The Fort was simple, but scenic, lots of crannies to explore. We walked around the area before heading back to the trails along the shore. The trails wound up and down along the coast, and above the Fort. Trees lined the trails, making for picturesque scene, although dull Winter brown, pops of red were found here and there. We veered off to the rocks several times checking out the lovely view.

We then continued to the wreath adorned lighthouse, practicing poses for our Christmas card. We hopped from rock to rock, getting as close to the lighthouse as possible. After stopping at various views we then returned to the larger beach area to relax, swim, dig, and run. The waves and seagulls creating a lovely, therapeutic song.

Although the Park was quite simple, we had a wonderful afternoon in the sun. There were few visitors to the Park, the perfect off-season perk. We definitely chose the perfect afternoon to explore Winter Island Park. (Rating: 3).

December 2016

Throwback Adventure – Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Shadow, Buster, and I (and my Mom on several occasions) have enjoyed many Adventures to the Salisbury Beach State Reservation in Salisbury, Massachusetts. This Beach overlooks the area where the Merrimack River joins the Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular area for swimming, camping, picnicking, and boating. There is a fee to enter the Park, although state park passes are accepted.

We have had numerous Adventures to Salisbury Beach State Reservation. It is one of the few Massachusetts Beaches that permits dogs in ALL months of the year ALL times of the day. Dogs are allowed on one part of the Reservation I think referred to as the “River Side”. With construction views, a cement barrier, and a small Beach, the area is not greatly picturesque. It therefore is far from my favorite Beach, however it has allowed my best friends to join me on the shore, making for many memorable Adventures. I think our visits to Salisbury Beach State Reservation began when I first left Florida, definitely missing a gorgeous beach experience. I sought out to find that perfect beach, really an impossible task. So I soon started taking regular trips to Salisbury Beach State Reservation, providing me at least some sand, and waterfront time with my best friends!

Over the years we have had wonderful times exploring Salisbury Beach State Reservation. We especially enjoyed the sunset evenings, lots of digging, swims, rolls, and enthusiastic play. We really are energized and inspired by our time on the Beach, always a refreshing visit. So below you will see photographs from our various different trips, all mixed together for one Beach collage (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Noanet Woodlands – June 2014

In June 2014 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to Noanet Woodlands in Dover, Massachusetts. Noanet Woodlands has approximately 600 acres of trails featuring woodlands, ponds, a peak, and a former mill site. It is popular for skiing, hiking, biking, and bird watchers.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Noanet Woodlands in June of 2014. If you follow my blog you are well aware that my Throwback memory can sometimes be limited in detail. This visit was definitely one of those cases as I amazingly I do not remember it all! However, it is clear by the photographs I have gathered that we had a pleasant trip, that would be beneficial to share with others who love dog-friendly outdoor spots. The pictures I tracked down indicate a swim-filled Adventure, with lots of off-leash fun, woodsy trails, and a stop to the peak. We even found a unique rock along the trails. It was so fun watching my boys swim, and hike together, and this journey was no exception. We sure do miss our Buster, leading to another reason I love to share my Thursday Throwback Adventure, even the simple ones. Below you will see the photographs I could locate from our Adventure to Noanet Woodlands. I think a likely spot we will return to in the future (Rating: Unavailable).

November 25, 2018 – Maudslay State Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, Massachusetts. This was our second visit to the Park as Shadow, Buster and I had Adventured there back in May 2015. Maudslay State Park is the former estate of the Moseley family, and is located along the Merrimack River. It is known for its 19th century gardens, meadows, pines, and as one of the largest naturally-occurring stand of mountain laurels in Massachusetts. It is popular for hiking, cross country skiing, picnicking, horseback riding, and summer concerts.

We had a nice Adventure to Maudslay State Park on a sunny, Fall day. We arrived to find the parking lot packed with people, many with dogs in tow. Soon out of the car I was greeted by a woman searching for a missing dog. I viewed the photo and hoped for the best, keeping my eyes out for sweet little Ellie, throughout the day. My heart weighed heavy as we began our afternoon hike.

We peaked at the map before following the masses, pleased to soon find ourselves away from the crowd on a woodsy, tree-lined trail. I had printed a map, which clearly labeled the trails but soon found we were on a complex trail system with no names,or colors to direct us in our hike. So I decided to remember where we had walked, noticing little details along the trail. I was thrilled to eventually find the water, and a trail leading to the shore’s edge. We ambled along the water trail, finding a cute little bridge with a River view. The water’s edge was iced, as well as some of the rocks along the shore. It crackled as we walked bye, adding sweet nature sounds to the air. This was my favorite part of our hike today, adding color, and variety to the trails.

Throughout our visit I found the trails to be very dull, and quite confusing. I even had a brief moment of worry in finding the trail back with numerous turns in all directions. I was able to use my Nature Warrior (haha) skills, and continually headed back the the starting point until we chose the correct path. This however did not dampen our energized pace as we explored a new Park. My thought is this Park might be quite beautiful in the spring, but definitely bland and brown this time of year. I guess that will be the theme for the next six months in New England, but this will not slow us down. It is funny that Shadow, Buster, and Shadow visited this Park before as I do not recall specific details. However my photos reminded me that Shadow and Buster enjoyed a dip in the water on a much greener journey. We definitely will plan a trip back to Maudslay State Park in the warmer months of the year (Rating: 3)

November 2018

May 2015

Throwback Adventure – The Frost Place – October 2017

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!

In October 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to The Frost Place in Fraconia, New Hampshire. The Frost Place was poet Robert Frost’s home in the White Mountains. It is considered a “house museum”. The property includes a museum, a nature trail displaying Frost’s poems, and museum grounds.

We had a wonderful Adventure to The Frost Place on a gorgeous Fall day. We began our visit on the trail through the woods, stopping to read the poems, and snapping many photographs along the way. The trail was short, but pleasant. After completing the trail we returned to the location of Frost’s home. Near the home there was a barn-like area allowing you to make purchases and watch an informational video. We watched the beginning of the video, but did not find it too interesting, so headed over to check out the stunning views of the mountains. It was a beautifully picturesque and unique location in one of my favorite areas of the White Mountains. So glad we were able to explore the Frost Place (Rating: 4).

November 17, 2018 – Lowell National Historic Park – Massachusetts

Today, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Lowell National Historic Park to explore the Lowell Waterways. The Lowell National Historic Park was established in 1978 and includes a group of different sites in and around the city of Lowell. These sites are related to the era of manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. They include a visitor center, the Lowell Waterways, the Boot Mills, the Patrick J Morgan Cultural Center and much more.

We were happy to find a local Adventure with our visit to the Lowell National Historic Park. Obviously we were only able to explore the outdoor aspects of the Park, however we did our best to get a feel of the Park. Upon arrival we parked at the visitor parking and were able to speak with the ranger to get a map and some additional details. We headed on our journey, soon realizing that the Waterways were quite unclear, and not marked. However, I felt it best to not look like an obvious tourist in the city, so decided not to continually pull out an overly detailed map, but instead wander on our own.

It was a dull day, leftover snow and brown leaves covering the ground. We were pleased to find some grass, between the city side walks, and some paths along the canal. We walked about an hour and a half, experiencing the sounds, viewing landmarks, and appreciating the diversity of the city. Along the way we found signs noting we were on the “Canalway” and finding various information and historic signs to educate us on our journey. Although I was excited to enjoy a new Adventure, I was disappointed with the Park. However, it was fun to provide Shadow and Wilma with a city Adventure, something we do not do often (Rating: 2).