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 an amazing photograph that my friend Kathy took on one of my last Florida beach trips. As some of you may know I lived in Florida for eleven years. We regularly frequented the beach, and have treasured memories of these Adventures. Kathy did a stupendous job capturing this smiling photograph of Shadow, Buster, and I at Honeymoon State Park, one of our favorite locations. We cannot thank her enough for this fantastic photograph! Check out her business on Facebook – Little Violet Photography- by Kathy Hostetler.

June 7, 2020 – Bissell Bridge – Massachusetts

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to the Bissell Covered Bridge in Charlemont, Massachusetts. The Bridge crosses the Mill Brook. It was built in the 1800’s and most recently rebuilt in 1995. There is a wooden viewing area near the Bridge.

We had a peaceful Adventure to the Bissell Covered Bridge. We found the Bridge in a quiet area, but yet quickly noted the high speed of the cars speeding through. Therefore we did not walk through the bridge, but yet made sure to explore on each side. The bridge was a natural wooden color, and was modern in style. One thing that was unique about this bridge was that there was a wooden viewing area adjacent to the bridge, and overlooking the River and dam. It was a fun feature that we have only seen at several other bridges.

It was challenging to photograph the entire bridge due to the angles and access to the River’s edge, however I captured it in parts. For some reason today’s visit made me wonder what Wilma was thinking – I was excited to be at the Bridge and stretch our legs, while did she think we never arrived anywhere due to the brief journey outside of the car?? The strange things that I think about (haha)! So glad we could visit yet another Covered Bridge today (Rating: 4).

June 7, 2020 – Mount Greylock State Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Mount Greylock State Reservation in Lanesborough, Massachusetts. Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts at 3, 491 feet. Mount Greylock State Reservation in popular for camping, snowmobiling, skiing, and hiking. There is an Auto Road to the summit. The Reservation includes a Visitors Center, and Veterans War Memorial Tower.

We had quite the panoramic Adventure to Mount Greylock State Reservation. I was ecstatic to be visiting Mount Greylock State Reservation as it has been on my list for some time. I was surprised that the auto route was not steep, and was pleased that it did not appear busy, we therefore could take our time. There were several spots to stop and hike but since we had a full day planned so decided to head straight to the summit.

Upon arrival at the summit we hopped out and began exploring. There were little trails throughout, with the main feature being the Veterans War Memorial Tower. The Veterans War Memorial Tower was grand in size, and definitely did not disappoint. We walked around the Tower studying every angle, just spectacular. From there we headed to the view from behind the Memorial. The Mountainside was quite busy, but we found a little spot to sit and relax. However Wilma really does not sit or lay down, unless requested, so I sat, while she watched those around us, my curious little girl. The views were just lovely. We repeated this routine several times not wanting to leave this wonderful location. However, the crowd began to grow and eventually we decided to part. Definitely an amazing Adventure to Mount Greylock State Reservation (Rating: 4.5)

June 7, 2020 – Pecks Falls – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Pecks Falls in Adams, Massachusetts. There are several Falls titled Pecks Falls and I believe the particular one we visited was the Upper Falls. Pecks waterfall is sourced from the Pecks Brook. It is approximately twenty feet in height, has several cascades, and drains into a pool below.

We had a beautiful Adventure to the Pecks Falls. It took a little bit of time finding the trail to Pecks Falls, but I was glad we did not give up! We drove around for awhile before deciding that several car pull-offs on West Mountain Road might be the correct location. We ventured down the trail and toward where we thought it was located. We found the Pecks Brook, and it did not take long to arrive at the Falls. The Trail was much shorter, and easier then I had imagined. I was thrilled that we had found the Falls!! Somehow I managed to not get my sneakers wet as we hopped over the Brook and down to the base of Pecks Falls. It was small, but yet gorgeous!! We took some photographs, and enjoyed the scenery. We were pleased to have this complete Adventure to ourselves. I found the Trail to the Falls to be quite unappealing, however really did love the Falls. Simple, but perfect. So glad we could visit Pecks Falls today (Rating: Falls: 4, Trail: 3.5)

June 7, 2020 – William Cullen Bryant Homestead – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Uncle and I Adventured to the William Cullen Bryant Homestead in Cummington, Massachusetts. William Cullen Bryant was a well known poet and the owner of this estate for many years. He also helped to inspire the Land Conservation Movement, and often wrote about nature. The William Cullen Bryant Homestead has almost three miles of trails and the home is open for tours. The property is a National Historic Landmark and is managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a poetic Adventure to the William Cullen Bryant Homestead. I was quite excited to have My Uncle join us on our first Adventure of the day. We arrived to an empty parking lot, immediately spotting the gorgeous red barn, vibrant in color. We then headed over to Bryant’s home. The home was just lovely, well taken care of and quite grand in style. After wandering around the homestead we headed out on our walk.

We began our walk on the Rivulet and Pine Loop Trails. The Trail began through the field with beautiful mountain views, and wild flowers scattered throughout. The Trail was lined by a rock wall, creating a gorgeous scene. We walked past a small pond, and soon crossed a road to continue on the Trail. The Trails were simple, but having great company reminded me how many more things you can discover. We found some unique mushrooms, a bridge, granite rocks, and awed at the immense trees. We could hear the birds singing, and were surrounded by the peace of nature. Throughout the Trails there were several postings of Bryant’s poetry, an interesting feature along the way. At some points the Trail paralleled the Rivulet, the theme of one of Bryant’s well known poems.

After completing these Trails we headed over to the Sugar Bush Trail. This Trail was a bit wider in size, and highlighted the intricate system of maple syrup collections, plastic tubing winding trees to one another. Although I am quite naive of this process, this was far from anything I have seen before. On the Sugar Bush Trail we enjoyed a variety of discovers, including: an old Chevrolet, an orange salamander, the ruins of the Sugar House, and several more poems posted along the route.

As per her usual Wilma appreciated a nice, long walk with new smells, often preferring to lead the way. And although I found the Trail to be quite simple overall, I loved exploring the estate grounds, appreciated the beautiful mountains views, and the wonderful company. We enjoyed catching up, and appreciating the little details of nature. So glad we could explore the William Cullen Bryant Estate today (Rating: 3.5, Company: Perfect!)

Throwback Adventure – Great Brook Farm State Park – 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.

Today my Throwback Adventure is Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle, Massachusetts. Great Brook Farm State Park is a State Park managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. It is approximately 1,000 acres and has over twenty miles of trails. It has an ICE CREAM stand, an active farm area, and is popular for hiking, skiing, mountain biking and dog walking. There is a parking fee during in-season months.

I am pleased to share that Shadow, Wilma, and Buster ALL had many, many Adventures to the spectacular Great Brook Farm State Park. I am sure I have been there hundreds of times over the years, which is why it probably took me so long to create this blog, finding old photographs from various Adventures. So I therefore have determined it falls under our Throwback Adventure Thursday. We have been to Great Brook Farm State Park with family and friends, attempted training with Wilma (haha), created holiday photos, met many dog friends, and lounged, relaxed, and rolled in the leaves and grass. Great Brook Farm State Park has been one of my favorites in all seasons, and is one of the few local, dog-friendly parks that grooms their trails when snow is deep. The Park has trails with bridges, fields, rocks, wildflowers, hills, and ponds, creating endless opportunities to explore. Shadow loved many swims and rolls, Wilma especially enjoyed bounding up onto the large boulders, and Buster always appreciated a long, vigorous hike.

In addition to our hikes we enjoyed many scoops of ice cream, a tasty way to end an Adventure. Please see photographs and videos from some of our Adventures below. (Several of the videos you may have seen before in my Weekly Video/Photo section if you have followed by blog regularly). If you live locally Great Brook State Farm MUST be added to your list (Rating: 4).

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

I have decided to add a tab/menu section of my blog specifically for Arboretums, Gardens, and Sculpture Parks. If you follow my blog you are well aware that I am a fan of visiting Arboretums, Gardens, and Sculpture Parks with my three best buds. I am happy to have had many of these Adventures with Shadow and Buster, and know Wilma and I will find more in the future.

Here are just a few of my many favorites. Hope you too can enjoy these gorgeous places!

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a photograph of Buster on a trip to Cape Cod. As you know all my pups have enjoyed numerous visits to the beach. Buster and Shadow grew up on the beaches of Florida, and then moved to Massachusetts and enjoyed the New England beach experience. I love this photograph of my Buster, posing eagerly. One of many beach memories with my boys!

Buster Cape

June 1, 2020 – Wickham Park – Connecticut

Today Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Wickham Park located in Manchester and East Hartford, Connecticut. Wickford Park is a private, non-profit foundation. It is 280 acres in size and has a vast amount of opportunities including: gardens, playgrounds, sports facilities, and ponds. It is also a popular location for community events and private weddings.

We had a fragrant Adventure to Wickham Park. I was very happy to find yet another dog-friendly garden! We arrived at the Park at around five and explored until it closed at eight. The Park had beautiful gardens, decorative features to highlight the garden theme, boardwalks, bridges, and more. We walked and walked, I believe exploring every garden in the Park. Throughout the evening we often smelled the fragrance of flowers, including the lilacs, my favorite smell of all!! We approached each turn eagerly, looking forward to the next garden. And of course we took plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and take photographs.

Besides the beauty of the gardens, we were quite awed by the sky, blue with beautiful clouds. The sun was streaming through the trees, creating a fantastic sunset. It was really the perfect way to end a wonderful evening. We absolutely loved our visit to Wickham Park and hope to be back in the future (Rating: 4).

May 31, 2020 – Wells State Park – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Wells State Park in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. Wells State Park has approximately 1400 acres and is popular for: hiking, camping, mountain biking, boating, fishing, and horseback riding. The trails include a pond loop, scenic vistas, rugged terrain and wetlands.

We had a heart-pumping Adventure to Wells State Park. I was excited to finally visit the Park as it is one I had been curious about for some time. My plan was to check out the Mill Pond Trail, then hike the North Trail, finally connecting with the Carpenters Rock trail before visiting the Walker Pond. It took a couple minutes for us to locate the trails but we then followed the route as planned. The trails were clearly labeled by color, however I was thankful to have a map so I knew exactly where to turn.

The Mill Pond The trail was handicapped accessible and provided several pond views. There were a few side trails which we located that allowed a closer view of the Pond(s). It was simple but provided some variety. The remaining trails that we hiked were quite unappealing however had many hills to ensure a good workout. On two occasions the North Trail actually ran through a field with electric poles and wires with signage for danger. We were able to avoid these poles and carried on. I found the trails to be more buggy then most, but nothing too unbearable.

My favorite part of these trails was the lookout on the Carpenter Rock trail. This vista was a rocky ledge which displayed quite lovely views! If you are visiting Wells State Park for some hiking I highly recommend you visit this well known scenic vista.

After completing our hike we headed over to check out Walker Pond. On the way Wilma found some perfect grass for some happy roles. We arrived at the Pond quickly and enjoyed the scene. Wilma waded in a bit to drink before we headed back to leave on our next Adventure! So although I likely will not return to Wells State Park we enjoyed a new Adventure and a vigorous hike (Rating: 3.5).