Weekly Video/Photo

I am updating my Weekly Video/Photo portion of my blog, due to the devastating loss of our Shadow. 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. However, I will be concentrating future posts on Shadow, as we grieve his loss.

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. As you may know we were devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020. He was 12, and thankfully living a long and pain free life! I will use this section as a therapeutic remembrance of our Shadow, sharing many spectacular Adventures and moments.

Today’s feature is a precious photograph of Shadow. It is the literally first time as it was his adoption advertisement. It was love at first sight! I reached out to his Rescue Agency after he passed and they sent me this adorable photograph. My emotions flowed being both thrilled to have this photograph, but yet devastated that this special boy is no longer by my side. I can’t believe he was so ever so tiny. He was my perfect boy from the beginning. Here is my sweet Shadow…

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May 2, 2020 – Texas Falls Recreation Area – Vermont

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Texas Falls Recreation Area in Hancock, Vermont. The Texas Falls Recreation Area is part of the Green Mountain National Forest. The Recreation Area has a 1.2 mile trail highlighted by the Texas Falls. Texas Falls is a series of cascading Falls that are approximately thirty five feet in height. The location also contains a picnic areas, pavilions, and restrooms.

We had a spectacular Adventure to the Texas Falls Recreation Area. I had been wanting to visit this Falls for some time, and finally decided to take the long drive. I thought of Shadow often on this Adventure, as it was my first waterfall visit since loosing our Shadow. So glad he has numerous waterfall Adventures.

We arrived at the Texas Falls Recreation Area following my GPS and clearly marked signs. There were some cars in the parking lot, but not overly busy. With great anticipation we crossed the street searching for the direct path to the Falls. I soon located a lovely bridge across the Texas Brook. While traversing this bridge we located the Falls to the left, and to the right the Brook continued, rushing through the gorge. We relished the sites, and planned to return again after our walk.

Our journey continued across the bridge where we immediately found the sign for the “Nature Trail”. We turned right and began on our hike, soon spotting a sign for the Lower viewing area, which provided an additional view of the waterfall, and close-up views of the gorge. So beautiful, roaring thunderously! After spending time on this landing we then returned back to our hike.

The “Nature Trail” ran high above and parallel to the brook before winding up into the woods. Part of the trail was a slight work-out as it slowly ascended up. The trail crossed a variety of bridges, little cascades down the rocks, and varied in trees, and natural landscaping. There were few others on the trail, and through much of the walk we could hear the sounds of running water. I really loved this trail, flashing me back to my many special Adventures with Shadow to the White Mountains.

Upon completion of the Trail we strolled over to check out the picnic areas, and a new aspect of the river from the bridge on the road. I then decided to grabbed my lunch and we headed to a huge boulder as I ate and Wilma watched everyone who sauntered within her sight. So peaceful! After eating we spent time revisiting the various views of the Falls and locating rocks in quiet areas to sit and soak in the entire sensory experience. We spent almost three hours at the Recreation Area, and did not want to leave. The Texas Falls Recreation Area is definitely a special place that I would highly recommend to all my friends, and followers. Please see below for many photographs, and videos (Rating: 5).

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May 2, 2020 – Waterloo Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

The Waterloo Covered Bridge is in Warner, New Hampshire. The Waterloo Covered Bridge was built in 1840, but was later replaced. The Bridge crosses the Warner River.

We had a river-filled Adventure to the Waterloo Covered Bridge. I was pleased to find the bridge in a quiet location. The Bridge was especially scenic from scenic side-view, yet simple from the end. We found a trail next to the bridge, appearing to run between two rivers. Conveniently a local was walking through noting the trail to be a lovely trail that commenced at another road. We decided to explore this unexpected path. The trail was still brown from winter, but yet unique and provided several opportunities to get to the water’s edge. This was a nice little surprise on our Adventure to the Waterloo Covered Bridge.

After returning to the bridge we crossed through and over to the opposite side. It has been some time since we have been able to wander through a bridge, due to the often busy and dangerous trek. On this occasion we were able to peer out the openings down the river and snap a couple photos. The opposite side had a small grassy area, and a rushing cascade (suspected to be Waterloo Falls), generating a lovely scene. Wilma glanced down the cascades, and again appeared curious by the water, so fun to observe. The Waterloo Covered Bridge was peaceful, and just right. Definitely a special covered bridge in New Hampshire (Rating: 4).

May 2, 2020 – Sherburne Nature Center and Trails – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. The Center was donated by the Sherburne family in 1999. It has approximately eighty acres of open land and trails and the Center itself has various exhibits and opportunities for educational activities. The Sherburne property is popular for walking, nature viewing, snow shoeing and biking.

We had an early morning Adventure to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails arriving at 5:30am! We were pleased to find an empty parking lot the sun just starting to rise. We began our hike through the field and into the woods, soon locating a singing brook. Wilma immediately heading to the water’s edge to explore and I treasured the sounds of nature. From there we headed over the bridge and began to explore the Trails. I had peeked at the online map beforehand but soon discovered the Trails were quite confusing, often finding labels to indicate we were on a trail, but unclear as to what trail, or how it connected with another. Nevertheless being a small local park this caused no concern and we carried on. Wilma appeared very jovial, jumping up on anything tall, and sniffing everything in sight. Parts of the Trail were quite muddy, but to be expected with our recent days of rain.

After eventually finding our way back to the babbling brook, we were able to locate a nearby Trail with a spectacular boardwalk. The geese were unusually loud, maybe warning of a dog-like, deer looking creature?? (haha!) We saw adorable ducklings, and located a large beaver dam in close proximity to the boardwalk. The sun was rising through the trees, adding incredible beauty to this picturesque portion of the Trails. This was definitely my favorite part of the Trails at the Sherburne Nature Center!

We spent about an hour and a half exploring the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails. So fun to find a new local Trail system. Below you will see many photos and two videos of my favorite two sections of the Trails, both of which we explored twice (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – Dog Mountain/Dog Chapel – Vermont

In remembering our Shadow I decided to re-post some of our favorite Adventures on our “Throwback Adventure” Thursdays. Shadow had amazing solo Adventures, Adventures with Buster, and Adventures with Wilma. He was one lucky boy! The post today was our Adventure to the Dog Chapel, a spectacular way to honor and appreciate man’s best friend. I have been there with Shadow, and also with Shadow and Wilma. We were able to post Buster’s memorial card in the Chapel, and had such a special and therapeutic experience. It really helped in the healing of loosing our Buster. I look forward to returning to honor our Shadow. Please see below for my original post including photographs and a video.

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Dog Mountain, the home of the well known Dog Chapel. Dog Mountain is a 150 acre property on a mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The property was owned by the talented artist, furniture maker, sculptor and author, Stephen Huneck. Huneck turned his barn into studio space and was the visionary for the Dog Chapel. Much of Huneck’s later work was artwork of dogs and the bond between dogs and humans. Sadly Huneck died at just 61, however his vision lives on. Dog Mountain includes: numerous hiking trails, ponds, the gallery, and the Dog Chapel. They even host a variety of dog friendly events, including parties and concerts.

We had a therapeutic Adventure to Dog Mountain. It was two years ago this weekend that our love, Buster, passed away. Shadow and I visited the Dog Chapel the Winter after Buster died, and since then we have made it an annual visit to remember Buster, and support this absolutely peaceful, therapeutic, and amazingly remarkable location. On our first visit I posted Buster’s remembrance card on the memorialized wall of the Dog Chapel. The gorgeous Dog Chapel is a peaceful experience with quiet music, photographs plastered everywhere, artistic stain glass dog windows, and numerous small features honoring all the dogs that have passed. It was such a special experience that I cannot describe it in words. It almost was like a Memorial Service where you could honor the loyal dog that you loved dearly. Buster was an amazing energetic boy. He had a crazy tail, a happy howl, and a zest for life. He was a year younger then Shadow and they grew up best buds. It was absolutely devastating loosing him, and our experience at Dog Mountain helped provide some great healing and therapy. I highly recommend all those who love animals and have lost a pet visit this one of a kind spot dedicated to man’s best friend.

Although the Chapel was definitely our highlight of Dog Mountain we also enjoyed the trails, gallery, and chatting with other dog lovers. On our visit yesterday we started on one of the trails through the beautiful mountain area, with scenic views. It was very quiet and peaceful and we took in every thought and moment hiking on this grand Dog Mountain. After completing this loop we sat by the pond for a bit enjoying the mountain foliage while Shadow and Wilma enjoyed playing, and drinking some water from the pond. From there were headed to the gallery, so fun to have the dogs included in a shopping experience. Although I initially did not see Huneck’s artwork as “my style”, the meaning behind the art, the place it has become, and the therapy it has provided me, really has turned it into artwork I love and cherish. While in the gallery Shadow spent a good time napping in various spots, while I wandered with Wilma, searching for that perfect purchase. It was great to find some little souvenirs from our visit, therefore supporting this wonderful dedication to man’s best friend. It is just breathtaking seeing all the little details around the gallery, and property, from door knobs of dogs, to statues on the fence, to dog carvings holding up the toilet paper! Every feature was considered in this spectacular labor of love.

And of course we always visit the Chapel a second time before we leave Dog Mountain, soaking in the experience. We were lucky to have some time in solitude to remember all the fun times with our Buster. Not only a beautiful location, but really a glorious experience in all ways. I highly encourage all to visit this dedication of love, Dog Mountain, as nothing can compare. We look forward to next year’s visit to Dog Mountain (Rating: 5)

October 2018

October 2017

February 2017

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Remembering Shadow and Wilma’s Adventures Together

So today I thought I would remember Shadow’s amazing Adventures with Wilma. Although nine years apart they were an amazing pair. Shadow taught her the rules, and helped her feel calm in the unpredictable times. They enjoyed playing together and their numerous Adventures. Some people doubted their age difference, but I knew it was a wonderful decision for all of us. And although I never bought into the idea that she would keep him young, I do wonder as Wilma’s constant energy added joy to his days. Some of our favorite Adventures occurred in the summer of 2018 when I worked at an Inn in the White Mountains providing us endless, gorgeous Adventures. Wilma and Shadow had almost three years together, and created such wonderful memories. Although I could never post all of my favorite photographs, this is a large collection of many wonderful moments. Here are Shadow and Wilma’s Adventures TOGETHER. Boy do Wilma and I miss him!

White Mountains Shadow and Wilma July 2018

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a short, but spectacular video of Shadow in one of favorite local conservation trails. This video remind me how adopting Shadow brought me back to my love of the great outdoors, and also is a wonderful visual of his gentle demeanor with all creatures, big and small. Watch below and you will see….

April 25, 2020 – Nauset Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Nauset Lighthouse (also referred to as the Nauset Beach Lighthouse) in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. I actually have blogged about this Lighthouse in my “Throwback” blog but decided to highlight it again as I took minimal photos on the first visit, as well as Wilma had not visited this memorable Lighthouse. Shadow, My Mom, and I originally visited three years ago.

The Nauset Lighthouse was restored and relocated back in 1923. The Nauset Light Preservation Society currently maintains the Lighthouse and through private donations funded the restoration and relocation of the lighthouse. The Lighthouse has benches nearby and is located adjacent to the Nauset Light Beach.

I was excited to Adventure to the Nauset Lighthouse a second time as it is unusually colorful and absolutely scenic. We parked at the nearby beach and made the short trek over to the Lighthouse. Wilma was eager to explore, anticipating the enthusiasm in my steps. We found a scenic path to the side of the Lighthouse that led us to the top of the small hill and directly to the Lighthouse. The scenery was brown, yet had character. There were benches near the Lighthouse, and several educational kiosks. The roar from the ocean was fantastic, one of my favorite sounds of nature. We lingered around the area, making several rounds. On our way back I noticed several overgrown paths to the beach, so we ventured over to observe the scene. I was shocked to find us high above the beach, almost a large dune, yet we were in a wooded-like area. The site was just spectacular, and the sounds magnificent. I do not remember if we visited this beach on our initial visit, but definitely will be adding it to a future Adventure. One of my favorite photographs from today came at the Nauset Lighthouse of Wilma in the brown landscaping with the Nauset Lighthouse in the background. So glad both Shadow and Wilma were able to Adventure to the Nauset Lighthouse. I will include the photographs from our initial visit below at the bottom, but you also can search for the Nauset Lighthouse in my search box to read more about our first visit in April 2017. Definitely one of the beautiful Lighthouses in New England (Rating: 4).

April 2017 Visit

April 25, 2020 – Eastham Windmill – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, and I Adventured to the Eastham Windmill in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. The Eastham Windmill is the oldest working Windmill in Cape Cod. The Windmill was built in 1680 in Plymouth, and moved numerous times before arriving at the current location. As expected the Windmill has been restored over the years. It currently is open to the public in summer months providing tours of the operation. The Eastham Windmill also fresh-ground cornmeal which is sold to the community.

We had a special Adventure to the Eastham Windmill as this was our first ever Adventure to a Windmill! The Windmill was the centerpiece of the Town Center, located in a small park. It was surrounded by rustic fencing, and many benches around the border. We began exploring at the official sign of the Windmill, at the forefront of the Park. The nearby fencing was lined with gorgeous, bright white and yellow daffodils, sending my mind to thoughts of Dutch culture. After appreciating these pretty spring flowers we found another opening and headed straight to the Eastham Windmill. The Windmill was quite picturesque, and very tall. We viewed it from all angles, even discovering small Christmas lights on the turbines. Such a marvelous, and distinctive structure.

After snapping endless photographs, as per our usual custom we sauntered past the Windmill over to a small gazebo, and a radiant “Memorial Buoy Tree”. These Memorial was devoted to a local resident who had passed. Such a beautiful tribute that clearly has been treasured by his dedicated communicated.

I am not sure if you are thrilled to learn but we might have a new theme for our future Adventures. Well, not really theme, don’t you worry, but we do look forward to visiting other Windmills in the future. So delighted we could discover the Eastham Windmill today (Rating: 3.5)

April 25, 2020 – Three Sisters Lighthouses – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Three Sisters Lighthouses in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. These three fifteen foot towers were built in 1836, The Nauset Lights. They later became referred to as The Three Sisters as they were said to appear as woman who were wearing white dresses and black hats. The Three Sisters fell into the sea, and were replaced by twenty foot towers. They eventually were decommissioned and purchased and restored by the National Park Service. The National Park Service provides regular tours are available.

We had a fun Adventure to the Three Sisters Lighthouses on a warm and sunny April day. I was excited to locate these lighthouses, as there are few left in Massachusetts that I have not yet discovered. I spotted them as we drove by but it appeared the parking was closed so we parked at the nearby beach, soon locating the path labeled “Three Sisters Lighthouses. We walked down a nice paved path, past several homes before arriving at the Three Sisters Lighthouses. The Lighthouses were simple, yet unique, and pretty in their own way. They were located near one another, standing out well from the bright green grass. We visited each lighthouse checking out the details, each very similar to one another. My little hound Wilma was quite overtaken by smells in the area, and enjoyed quite the nasal sensory experience (haha). We had this location to ourselves, and took our time exploring. There were several picnic tables, some beautiful bright yellow forsythias and an educational kiosk. So glad we discovered the Three Sisters Lighthouses today, quite a unique trio (Rating: 3.5)