July 24, 2020 – Belle Isle Marsh Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Belle Isle Marsh Reservation in Boston, Massachusetts. Belle Isle Marsh is Boston’s last salt marsh. The Reservation is managed by the Department of Reservation and is approximately 240 acres in size. It encompasses various trails, including a .6 mile loop. The Reservation is popular for walkers, nature lovers, and bird watchers.

We had a mosquito-filled Adventure to Belle Isle Marsh Reservation. I was excited to have My Mom join us and visit this park which has caught my curiosity for some time. We arrived to find the parking lot almost completely empty. We began our journey, and found some nearby rangers who warned us of the mosquitoes and offered their bug spray. We decided to agree to this kind gesture and utilized the bug spray before carrying on to our Adventure. Belle Isle Marsh Reservation was beautiful, lovely wild flowers, boardwalks, and green framed marsh views. Planes from Logan flew over on occasion adding some drama to the scene. The mosquitoes were rough but we continued on determined to see the Reservation. We enjoyed a climb up a tower providing panoramic views of the area. Wilma was quite enthused with this climb, always looking back to make sure her precious Grandma was nearby. This was a fun feature in the Reservation.

Our plan was then to watch some baby osprey being banded by the rangers. However as we ventured farther into the marsh the mosquitoes became brutal, I do remember EVER seeing anything like it. I figured I would be fine, but I was soooo wrong. The mosquitoes were so vicious that there was no way we could sit and watch any activities with the rangers. I was very disappointed to miss this special opportunity but it was clear to both of us that it was not an option. However, we managed to walk around the loop, almost panicked at some points by the attacks. Luckily it did not seem like Wilma was bothered by the mosquitoes until near the end when she would often roll and clearly was becoming irritated with them. I felt badly about this and hope that she was more bothered by feeling them on her then any real bites (as she does not like when a fly, piece of grass, or anything is on her fur). However she loved trotting around, exploring the trails, climbing the tower and checking out the marsh views. The Reservation was unique, but I can promise you we will never be back. Although strangely we still were glad to visit another location today (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Singing Beach – Massachusetts

I have decided to return to posting new “Throwback Adventures” after taking time to re-post some of my favorites with Shadow. This has been a therapeutic process for me to share. We are devastated that both Shadow and Buster have both passed, but find peace knowing we can continue to remember them through our “Throwback Adventures”. They were amazing boys and are forever in our hearts.

Shadow and I had two Adventures to Singing Beach, while My Mom also joined us on one of these occasions. Singing Beach is a a popular public beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea. Singing Beach is said to have a sound of singing after one shuffles their feet in the sand. Dogs are allowed on Singing Beach from October 15-April 14 but are not allowed during the summer months.

We have had two wonderful Adventures to Singing Beach with our sweet Shadow. We found the beach to be a popular location for off-leash dogs. During our visits Shadow enjoyed playing ball, meeting new friends, relaxing, and strolling the shores with his mama❤️. He enjoyed wading in the water and although I do not recall him swimming, we did visit on chilly days. A couple of my favorite photographs of this precious boy came on these two Adventures. Shadow always loved our Adventures on the beach. Although the rumor is that this beach actually sings, I never heard any of these sounds. However so glad we were able to create special memories at the Singing Beach (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 22, 2020 – New Hampshire State House – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the New Hampshire State House in Concord, New Hampshire. The New Hampshire State House is the state capital building of New Hampshire. It was built in 1819 and is made out of granite. The state house encompasses the Executive Counsel, the Governor, and the Court.

We had a stately Adventure to the New Hampshire State House. This may not seem as a place someone would visit with a dog, however, I love architecture, photography, and have always been curious about this structure as I drove down the highway. So today was the day I chose to explore. There was parking in front of the State House, and after a quick trip to the paystation we were on our way. The State House was introduced by a spectacular archway, which we entered through with awe. As expected we did not enter the building, however appreciated the grounds, the structure, simple gardens, statues, and anything we could locate. We probably took two laps around, savoring the grand beauty! I really loved the State House, it was gorgeous, and the gold top just added to the grandeur. Although a dull sky day, I still enjoyed snapping numerous photographs. The only negative I found was the construction around several sides of the state house, but often a norm in the city.

After we finished our Adventure to the State House we spent about an hour walking around the area finding unique shops, restaurants, fountains, and more. Today’s photographs will include the State House and grounds only (not the surrounding neighborhood). So glad we could have this unusual Adventure today (This Adventure will not be rated).

May 16, 2020 – Keniston Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Keniston Covered Bridge in Andover, New Hampshire. Keniston Bridge was built in 1882 and crosses the Blackwater River.

We had a simple Adventure to the Keniston Covered Bridge. I was not planning on visiting two covered bridges today but we drove right by the sign (#15 I believe) and I could not resist. I photographed the bridge on one side before driving through and we then both got out to explore. Although the area was very quiet, I am usually very hesitant to walk through bridges open to car traffic as often you, as a pedestrian, can end up in a blind spot. So therefore we did not walk all the way through but sauntered around. We were pleased again to find a little trail down to the River’s edge. The bridge was quite dull, and unappealing. Nearby the bridge there was what appeared to be a leftover metal bridge frame, a surprise aspect of this location. Wilma made me laugh late as I peaked at her “posed” photos – she just about closed her eyes in all of them! Not a very scenic stop, however, always good to cross another covered bridge off our list today (Rating: 3).

July 22, 2020 – Cilleyville Covered Bridge/Bog Bridge – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Cilleyville Covered Bridge in Andover, New Hampshire. The Cilleyville Covered Bridge is also referred to as the Bog Bridge. The Cilleyville Covered Bridge was built in 1887 and traverses the Pleasant Brook. It is a pedestrian-only bridge.

We had a fun Adventure to the Cilleyville Covered Bridge. We located the bridge between Johnson Street and Main Street. We hopped out and headed over to this pedestrian-only bridge. The bridge was in an overgrown setting, but the bridge itself appeared well maintained. We crossed through the bridge and found a picnic table in the middle, a nice added feature, although it was quite dark underneath. I peaked out the windows as we crossed finding the Brook quite unappealing. We found a little spot to head down to the edge of the Brook and see the bridge from below. Wilma found a rock to climb, quite curious of this new location. From there we headed back to take some photographs from the opposite side. Wilma was not inspired to pose, too interested in her surroundings, however still looked quite adorable sitting in front. One interesting attribute about the bridge was that the front and back of the bridge were actually different colors, almost like we were at two separate locations. So glad we could visit yet another covered bridge with the Cilleyville Bridge today (Rating: 3.5).

July 22, 2020 – Grey Rocks Conservation Area – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Grey Rocks Conservation Area in Hebron, New Hampshire. The Grey Rocks Conservation Area is a small property with just 1.5 miles of trails. It is located along the Cockermouth River which feeds into Newfound Lake. The Grey Rocks Conservation Area is popular for: walking, picnicking, fishing, and paddling. They also offer Eco-Tours, however they are currently on hold due to COVID.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Grey Rocks Conservation Area on an overcast morning. I was eager to finally Adventure to Grey Rocks Conservation Area as it was a property that had caught my eye awhile back. We arrived to find only one other car in the parking lot. We first began on the Sandy Point Trail, then headed to the Floodplain loop trail, before returning to the Sandy Point Trail, The trails led through the woods and along the River. There were several boardwalks, platforms for viewing, and benches along the way. We noticed some kayakers from afar, and appreciated the singing birds. On occasion we heard some traffic in the distance but overall it was quite serene. The trails were buggy, but somewhat to be expected in a River setting. Wilma seemed a little unsure when we first arrived, but soon became more confident and started appreciating the sights and smells. We made sure to traverse all trails and viewing locations before then heading to the River Walk Trail.

I was briefly baffled as to where to locate the River Walk Trail, but found a large map-kiosk which indicated to walk along the road before the trail began into the woods. The River Walk Trail was much less interesting. The trail was slightly overgrown and the mosquitoes were intense. However we continued on find a look-out area, and also a viewing platform. Although we really would have not missed a thing by skipping this trail, I wanted to make sure we did not miss a thing!!

We really enjoyed visiting Grey Rocks Conservation Area. It was a quiet location, with a unique setting along the River. Throughout the trails there were informational kiosks, and even a children’s story. The trails were very short, but well labeled. Although we do not stop moving often (haha) I loved that there were benches for viewing, and relaxing. It was clear that alot of thought went into the small details of this Conservation Area. I can just imagine that Grey Rocks Conservation Area would be a spectacular place to kayak! I am glad we Adventured to Grey Rocks Conservation Area today (Rating: 3).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

I have decided to return to the “normal” Weekly Video/Photo section of my blog. As you likely know we lost Shadow about two months ago and I have been focusing this section on Shadow. However, I have peace knowing I will continue to highlight favorite photographs including Shadow and Buster. The plan will still be to still display a video or photo, usually highlighting an Adventure, while I might also sneak in some that are humorous, adorable, or just other fun dog moments.

If you have followed my blog from the beginning you will know that I adopted Shadow as a puppy, and about a year later adopted Buster as a puppy. We had many wonderful years together before experiencing the devastating loss of Buster at just seven. It took a long time for our hearts to heal, but almost a year later we welcomed little Wilma into our world. We were recently devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020. It is so painful to know Shadow and Buster are both gone, but they will be in our hearts forever!

My feature today is a simple video from Great Brook State Park on a perfect Fall day. I love this video as it is the perfect summary of a happy dog moment – Shadow rolling and Wilma enjoying a stick. And although it is far from a professional video, it made me smile so I decided to share this as our Video/Photo of the week. Hope it might make you smile too!

PS – Do not let my amateur skills make you dizzy as you watch this (haha).

July 18, 2020 – Wright’s Tavern – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Wright’s Tavern in Concord, Massachusetts. Wright’s Tavern is a historic tavern that had significance in the American Revolution. Unlike most other historic landmarks in Concord, there are no tours, or museums, however Wright’s Tavern continues to be memorialized as a National Historic Landmark.

We had a historic Adventure to Wright’s Tavern. Due to another hot day we decided to again just take a local walk, relax in the backyard, and visit a nearby community landmark. We arrived at the Tavern and found parking at the neighboring church. We sauntered over to Wright’s Tavern to take photographs and check out this Historic Landmark. The building was in perfect condition, and immaculate in structure. We viewed Wright’s Tavern from each angle. There was really not much to see, except a nice looking building, with great history. Although the Adventure was quite uneventful, still glad to see another historic landmark in Concord. (Rating: This Adventure will not be rated).

Throwback Adventure -Wompatuck State Park – Massachusetts

In April 2018 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Wompatuck State Park in Hingham, Massachusetts. Wompatuck State Park is a 3500 acre Park that is popular for camping, biking, snowmobiling, boating, and hiking. It includes 40 miles of forest trails that run by streams, ponds and a reservoir.

We had a fun Adventure to Wompatuck State Park. We had a full day of Adventures, and this was one of the many we enjoyed. We especially appreciated the boardwalk trails through the woods, and the water perfect for a swim. Wilma found some tasty sticks, while Shadow was often looking for the next water entrance. Wilma tried hard to keep up with Shadow on her hike, her best bud. I am not sure which body of water we found, but there are many in the Park. It was bright blue and quite scenic, especially next to the dry, brown spring grass. We will definitely have to visit Wompatuck State Park again in the future, a wonderful Park to explore (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 15, 2020 – Old Scituate Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Scituate Lighthouse in Scituate, Massachusetts. This was my third visit to the Scituate Lighthouse. The Scituate Lighthouse is also referred to as Old Scituate Lighthouse. It is a historic lighthouse which was built in 1811, later being purchased by the town of Scituate. It is located at Cedar Point in Scituate Harbor, and as expected is a popular location for painters.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to Scituate Lighthouse. Although I have been here twice before I apparently had forgotten the beauty. We arrived to find the sky blue, with fluffy white clouds. We circled the Lighthouse and then decided to hop down the long breakwater. The breeze was perfect, the large boulders colorful. The water was crashing into the breakwater, adding lovely drama. As we hopped I continually peaked back to check out the different views. The breakwater was not difficult to traverse, but yet the rocks did require careful calculation, especially with an energetic Wilma leading the way. We went to the very end of the breakwater, and appreciated the spectacular scene. We relaxed for a bit enjoying the breeze before turning back.

After we visited the beach, lots of rocks, and new angles of the lighthouse. Wilma was interested in the water, although still had jumpy movements with the waves. She explored the shore, and often looked around as though she was appreciating the views. We then decided to check out the smaller breakwater, another fun part of Adventure.

Lastly we made sure to explore the beach on the opposite side. It was a little more challenging arriving at this beach, with lots of uneven rocks. The rocks were round, and colorful, many my favorite color – purple! It was a little challenging walking along the shore due to the numerous rocks creating an unsteady gait. However we could not miss a part of the shore. From there we headed for one last view of the Lighthouse before heading out. The area was a bit more crowded then I preferred, but to be expected. Definitely one of the most beautiful Lighthouses in New England (Rating: 5).