Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will 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.

So 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.

Today’s feature is an adorable photograph of Shadow and Buster, soon after I adopted Buster. Shadow was a little over a year old and Buster I would guess just under three months. It was a huge and nerve-racking decision adopting a second dog but was the BEST decision I could have ever made. As soon as we got home they were instant buddies, constantly playing, and having fun! I ADORE this photo. It was the beginning of our double Adventures. A photo I will treasure, and should easily add a smile to your day. One of favorites of my boys!

Shadow and Buster - Buster puppy

August 31, 2019 – Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Walk in New London, Connecticut. The Sculpture Walk is part of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The Sculptures include work from: Lyman Allyn, David Smalley, Judy Cotton, and Gilbert Boro. The Sculpture Trail is free, and maps are available in the museum and online.

We had an innovative Adventure to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail. We arrived right before the Museum closed so were able to acquire a map. We studied the map and began wandering on the side of the property, heading around the building and down the entrances. I think my favorite sculptures on this end were the “Foo Dog”, a sculpture from the early Qing Dynasty, and one that appeared an abstract heart, which of course I posed with my two best buds!

After checking out the entrance side for sculptures we walked over to the Deshon Allyn House, a historic home. The amble started down a slope leading to a simple, but scenic wooden bridge. The bridge was surrounded with gigantic, beautiful pink hibiscus, definitely some of the largest ones I have ever seen! It was the perfect entrance leading to the Home, a gorgeous architectural structure. The surrounding landscape was fantastic, highlighted by beautiful features, including elegant benches, and fencing. We snapped many photographs, and appreciated the experience. Shadow relished some cheerful rolls and resting in the grass, while Wilma enjoyed some rock hopping, while monitoring my Mom’s every move. Although you could see and hear the nearby highway, is still managed to be a peaceful oasis.

Our last part of exploring involved finding the rest of the sculptures in the front, and far side of the Museum building. There were several that made me think of hands, while one that I quickly labeled “Noah’s Arc”. We took some selfies, including a family photograph. By this point the Museum was closed leaving the grounds solely to ourselves. We really enjoyed our time exploring the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Trail. I love an Adventure with a map where you are searching for landmarks, in this case creative art sculptures. It is always nice to see art, literally in nature, quite the enriching experience. The Visitor Center was very kind and helpful, which added the perfect touch to our Adventure. A fun day at the Lyman Allyn Museum Sculpture Walk (Rating: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Rita’s Italian Ice – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Rita’s Italian Ice in New London, Connecticut. Rita’s is a national restaurant chain that began out of Pennsylvania. It is popular for the custards, italian ice, and specialty deserts. The ice is smoother then the “normal” italian ice and has fresh fruit.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Rita’s Italian Ice. I was sooo incredibly excited to go to Rita’s Italian Ice. I have special memories of Rita’s Italian Ice from my undergraduate years in Pennsylvania. We would go there for a special treat, with the small size being just 75 cents! It was so tasty, a great social time, and perfect for the college wallet. This was my first visit to Rita’s since that time! I was pleased to find that Rita’s provided a small custard cup for the dogs! After ordering our goodies we found a quiet seating area in the back. Both My Mom and I had ordered black cherry Gelato’s, and it did not disappoint. So delicious with custard on the bottom and top, creating the perfect creamy flavor. Shadow and Wilma thoroughly enjoyed their first custard experience and quickly devoured their treat. We were thankful that the temperature had cooled a bit and took our time enjoying every bite. So glad that I FINALLY could reminisce at Rita’s Italian Ice (Rating: Italian Ice and Custard: 5, Location: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Fort Trumbull State Park – Connecticut

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, Connecticut. Fort Trumbull was built in 1977, but was re-constructed several times, including the final rebuilding between 1839 and 1852. Fort Trumbull was attacked and captured by British Forces during the Revolutionary War. The Fort also was utilized as defense during future wars including the Civil War. It is located on the Thames River. Fort Trumbull was opened as a State Park in the year 2000. The Fort has a Visitor Center, offers tours, and hosts special events including concerts.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Trumbull State Park. We were excited to have my Mom join us for our Connecticut Adventures today. Upon arrival I was quite impressed by the grand, and scenic Fort. Over to the side you could see the beautiful, bright blue River, just a spectacular entrance. The grounds of the Fort were perfectly groomed. There were paved trails around the Fort, and a larger loop closer to the shore. We sauntered around the Fort, taking photos, and appreciating the sites. We spotted the Pier which was filled with hopeful fisherman. Near the Pier there was a large Coast Guard Boat, adding the perfect touch to the Park. We sat for a bit and relaxed in the shade. There were many boats floating by peacefully, quite picturesque.

As we completed our loop around the Fort we peaked inside the Fort to view the internal sites. The front desk had stated they preferred the dogs not enter the inside of the Fort, so we did not explore, or traverse to the top of the Fort. However, we engaged in our own personal tour of the rest of the highlights of the Park, covering everything we could locate.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma enjoyed many rolls, and lapped up lots of water. I was a bit disappointed at the unexpected heat of the day, but had luckily prepared well with lots of water, and breaks as needed. The Fort really was gorgeous, towering high above therefore providing vast views of the River. We had a wonderful visit to the Fort Trumbull State Park (Rating: 4).

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a video inside the Dog Chapel on Dog Mountain. Our Adventures to Dog Mountain are precious to my heart as it honors the lost lives of animals, including my love, Buster. I was able to remember Buster at this location, placing his heartfelt memorial card on the wall. This landmark is a must-see for all animal lovers in New England, and those who visit. It is very therapeutic visiting this special place. You can also buy items online, which helps to help keep the Mountain open. If you are interested in reading more about our past Adventures to Dog Mountain you can search for it in the search box (to the right on a computer and at the bottom on a cell phone)

A moment from my heart…

August 25, 2019 -Bay Circuit Trail – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I took a walk on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Bay Circuit Trail is a recreation trail of over 200 miles, crossing 37 towns and linking many parks and landmarks. It is popular for activities including: biking, paddling, horseback riding, and running.

We had a simple Adventure on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Trail was a dirt path surrounded by greenery. There was no change in scenery, no color, and little variety, creating quite a monotonous and dull scene. The Trail often paralleled private homes, however remained quiet from voices, and activity. We saw several bikers throughout the afternoon. Shadow and Wilma appreciated the new smells along the way, always so eager to explore!

On the way back I decided to take a side trail that led us over to the Minuteman National Park. This path was extremely overgrown and often I was pushing plants and prickers aside leading the way for my best buds. It was great to see a bit of change in landscape with some logs on part of the path, an unusual metal structure on the side, and bright pink flowers from afar. However I was quite pleased when we arrived at the scenic Minuteman National Park, ending our journey on the Bay Circuit Trail. I was quite unimpressed with the Trail, yet wonder as a walker if I can really give this Trail justice, as we traversed far less then the 200 plus miles. The idea of biking to landmarks is quite extraordinarily but on foot one can only go so far. Therefore I will not rate this The Bay Circuit Trail as I was still grateful to find a new place for a walk. A beautiful day for an Adventure!

PS – If you would like to read more on my blog about Minuteman National Park you can search for this in the search box.

Throwback Adventure – Riverhills Park – Florida

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. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

In August 2012 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to Riverhills Park in Temple Terrace, Florida. Riverhills Park is located along the Hillsborough River. It includes: a boardwalk, boat landing, tennis courts, and a playground.

We had many trips to the Riverhills Park back when we lived in Tampa, Florida. These particular photographs were taken from a visit in August 2012, our last month in Tampa before relocating to Massachusetts. (I am guessing I may have other photos, but these are the ones I was able to locate). Riverhills Park is a small, but scenic park with a lovely boardwalk along the River lined with cypress trees. We often would visit the Park to walk and relax, and also take a stroll in the lovely neighborhoods surrounding. It is definitely a place I have fond memories of, and hope some day I will be back to reminisce. Not necessarily a Park to travel far to visit, but yet if you are in the area a scenic spot to stop. We loved our Adventures to Riverhills Park. (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

I have decided to add a “History and Forts” section under the menu on my blog. I am excited about this as we have been on many Adventures on these topics, and it will be helpful to have a separate category, especially for those history buffs out there! Most of these are obvious History and Fort blogs, but there were a couple state parks that are categorized as “historic” so I added them to this section as well. These blogs will continue to be listed in their relevant state, and in some cases may fall under another category (Example: if a Fort is located at a Park that also has a lighthouse it would be in the lighthouse category as well). I thought I would share just a few of my many favorite photographs and/or Adventures. I look forward to adding more categories in the future!

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a photograph of Shadow and Buster from one of my favorite local State Parks. It is one I have yet to blog about, but a location we often enjoy. I utilized a special feature on my camera, so it has a unique touch. Reminds me…I really should buy a camera! Another great memory of my boys together!

Magnet picture 2

August 19, 2019 – Lost Pond Trail – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Lost Pond Trail in Goreham, New Hampshire. The Lost Pond Trail beings at the AMC Visitor Center, and is officially part of the Appalachian Mountain Trail. It follows the Ellis River and ends at Lost Pond, providing distant views of Mount Washington.

We had a wonderful Adventure to the Lost Pond Trail on a warm summer morning. We headed out early, planning this as our feature Adventure on a day full of many. The Lost Pond Trail began across the street from the AMC Visitor Center. It was marked with a sign, before beginning down a boardwalk, and across a marsh. Immediately there were spectacular, jaw-dropping views. This reminded me exactly why we journey on long drives for day trips to the White Mountains, like Lost Pond.

From the boardwalk the trail veered toward the right following the white and blue blazes. The trail paralleled the Ellis River, often from high above. On several occasions we headed over and through the River, cooling down in the clear River water. There were yellow wildflowers, bright mushrooms, and berries along the trail. Some sections of the trail that had boardwalks and small bridges, and there were continual rocks throughout. At one point I thought I had taken a wrong turn as the trail started gaining elevation, but soon after this gain we spotted Lost Pond from the distance.

Upon arrival at Lost Pond Shadow and Wilma posed on a rock as they checked out the views. From there we traversed down the side of the Pond, lots of large rocks, making for an interesting hike. The views were beyond picturesque the pond scattered with rocks, lilies, and breathtaking mountain views. Shadow loved his swims, and water-sitting, while Wilma continually hopped on rocks. She sometimes threw me off-balance with her athletic, and unexpected jumps. This place was so absolutely beautiful words really cannot explain. I loved that the trail followed the River, providing opportunities to wade, and lead to the beautiful Lost Pond with glorious views. The trail was very quiet, and on several occasions I thought I heard some animal voices in the distance. The only downfall was that a good portion of the trail was close to the main road, providing sounds of vehicles zooming bye. However, I can definitely say this was one of my favorite White Mountain hikes. So glad we took the trip to the Lost Pond Trail (Rating: 4.5)