Throwback Adventure – Avery Point Light – Connecticut

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 January of 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to Avery Point Light in Groton, Connecticut. The Avery Point Lighthouse is located on the campus of the University of Connecticut. It was established in 1944, and is the last Lighthouse that was built in the Connecticut. The Avery Point Lighthouse was later restored in 2006 due to disrepair. It is currently is managed by the American Lighthouse Foundation.

We had a lovely Adventure to the Avery Point Lighthouse back on a sunny winter afternoon. There was limited parking, and I remember being a little unclear if I had parked in an appropriate spot. However, we stationed and headed off to the Lighthouse. The grass was surprisingly bright green, and the sky blue, masking the “normal” landscape of a winter afternoon. We were able to stroll directly up to the lighthouse, and of course we walked around to view each angle. Shadow was quite photogenic, although the bright sun was not too cooperative in capturing these moments. The Avery Point Lighthouse was definitely unique in location, and style. It was great that we could get an up-close and personal view. So glad we were able to Adventure to the Avery Point Lighthouse (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated.)

August 13, 2019 – Lexington – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lexington, Massachusetts. Lexington is an affluent town famous for its history. It was there that the first shot of the Revolutionary War was fired. The Center of Town includes: shops, businesses, restaurants and numerous historic buildings and landmarks.

We had a historic Adventure to Lexington. I had planned a daytrip but due to the predicted storms we decided to have a local day. I was quite disappointed but pleased to find a great alternative.

We spent about two hours exploring Lexington. The day began spontaneously but I was soon pleased to locate a detailed map online, ensuring we visited all major landmarks. Our stops included the Buckman Tavern, The Belfry, Ye Old Burying Ground, The Minuteman Statue and much more. We strolled along the cablestone sidewalks, trotted down the ACROSS trail, rested in the lawn, and appreciated the rich history.

My favorite parts of our Adventure included: the architecture of the historic buildings, following the map to find the next stop on our Adventure, connecting with those around us, and watching Shadow and Wilma appreciate the moments. In regards to landmarks I was awed by the Burying Ground, and loved the scenic Minuteman Statue. Both Shadow and Wilma enjoyed numerous grassy rolls, a joyous celebration on yet another fantabulous Adventure! Lexington is definitely a special place to explore, especially for those history buffs (Rating: 4)

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 a photograph of a scenic winter wonderland, highlighted by Shadow and Wilma. This was taken at one of my favorite local State Parks which I have yet to blog about. I love the white wonderland captured in this photograph. One of my motto’s is: “Don’t let the weather stop you”. Hope you too will enjoy some winter hikes, although thankfully we can appreciate some other seasons before it is cold and slippery again!

Family picture 3

August 11, 2019 – Rocky Neck Art Colony – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Rocky Neck Art Colony in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Rocky Neck Art Colony is located on the Gloucester peninsula. It is considered one of the oldest art colonies in the country. Artists include: jewelers, painters, and photographers. Rocky neck includes many restaurants with outdoor seating and scenic views. It also contains the Gloucester Marine Railways one of the oldest shipyards in the country.

We had a coastal Adventure to Rocky Neck. We left later then I had planned (as my squirrel-stalker Wilma was having too much backyard fun) so we ended up taking a detour. My initial destination was overtaken by in-season crowds, quick eliminating my initial plan. I therefore was pleased to find the nearby Rocky Neck Colony. This was a place I had been once before and figured it would be a beautiful alternative for a summer stroll.

Upon arrival at Rocky Neck we immediately found free street parking. The walk was a gorgeous coastal scene. There were shops, galleries, and restaurants, many decorated with colorful flowers, and art displays. Rocky Neck was uniquely artsy, as expected, with paintings on outside buildings including window sills, and painted windows. The coastal views were spectacular with boats of all shapes and sizes. We ended our walk exploring the shipyard before turning around and enjoying some delicious ice cream at Rocky Neck Ice Cream.

Our last stop on this Adventure was a surprise, finding a hidden beach area along Rocky Neck. There were two simple parks opposite from one another, one with a beach. I was thrilled to find this, and before you knew it Shadow was instantly refreshed! I waded in with my sneakers and was quite impressed with Wilma sneaking in farther then usual. Shadow preferred to stay in the water while Wilma eagerly waited his return, spent some time digging, and enjoyed exploring some shells. We sat for awhile on the beach and appreciated the sights around us. Watching them made me laugh Wilma wild and energetic, Shadow calm and relaxed. It really was just a perfect way to end our visit to Rocky Neck. We spent about two hours exploring this peninsula and I am sure we will be back (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Jeff Smith Trail – Massachusetts

In December of 2014 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the Jeff Smith Trail in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Jeff Smith Trail is a conservation trail which runs through the “Blood Brook Ravine” land. There is parking for this Trail on Jewett Street and on Heald Street. The trail includes: a shoreline walk along the pond, follows a steep ridge above the pond, and weaves through the ravine that follows the Blood Brook. The total round trip hike is just under three miles.

We had an enjoyable adventure to the Jeff Smith Trail. I do not post many of our local conservation Adventures, however, sometimes feel inspired to share. On this particular walk I remember appreciating the unique landscape, the steep views of the lake, the ravine, and the Brook throughout our hike. We did not see a sole on the trail, and were swept away into the arms of nature. We found a beaver dam along the trail, and explored all the little spots we could find. I do not believe I ever researched this trail (until blogging) however spotted it on a drive through the area. A trail with water always catches my eye and am glad that we stopped for a hike on this brown, crisp, winter day. Not a fancy hike by all means, but yet a nice place to explore for the local followers and friends. Make sure you check out your local conservation land, you will often find a lovely spot (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a photograph of Wilma at Halibut State Park. Halibut State Park is a gorgeous coastal park located in Rockport, Massachusetts. It includes: trails, a lighthouse, a quarry, and rocky coastal views. We have been to this location many times, and have greatly enjoyed these Adventures. If you would like to read/see more about Halibut State Park you can search for it in the search box (located on the right on your computer, or the bottom on a cell phone.)

Love this scenic photo of my adorable, curious girl. Enjoy!

Halibut point Septe 2017

August 4, 2019 – Rowell Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Rowell Covered Bridge in Hopkington, New Hampshire. The Rowell Covered Bridge was built in 1953 and crosses the Contoocook River. It is a one-car traffic bridge.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to the Rowell Covered Bridge. After taking a long local walk I figured it was the perfect day to visit a new covered bridge. I had researched the bridge and noted it was listed at “1433 Maple Street”, however that was not the address that it was located. We drove past the address (coming from Route 89) for a minute or two and were glad to find the bridge on the right. There was steady traffic, cars zooming through the bridge, so we decided not to walk through the bridge, but instead take some time on each side to explore.

We began exploring the near side, noting a young boy and his father fishing on the opposite. It took some determination to find a path down to the River. The “path” was quite overgrown, however landed us in our desired destination. Shadow especially was thrilled to spot the River, and was immediately in the water. He was soon laying peaceful in the River, the water rippling around him. It a tranquil site, and besides for cars bumping along the bridge, incredibly serene. We attempted to stroll along the limited shore, but I soon decided to walk right into the River, much easier then the balance, and dodging of greenery. I sat on the shore for a bit while we relaxed. The water was quite picturesque, and felt just right. Wilma’s silly self enjoyed eating grass, posing on the rocks, chasing dragon flies, and she actually went in the water a bit to wade. Shadow mostly stayed in the water, relaxing peacefully. After spending awhile on this side of the River we decided to again drive through the bridge and check out the far side.

I was pleased to see the shoreline had become empty, so we therefore ventured down this much steeper slope. There was more of a sandy shore, lots of rocks to perch on, and an increased shoreline to appreciate. The view was similar, but the footing much more accommodating. My guess is that this bridge is more popular for locals, fishing, and not necessarily as known as others. The Rowell Covered Bridge was definitely one of my favorite covered bridges. If you are a Covered Bridge lover I would encourage you visit this lovely spot. A peaceful afternoon at the Rowell Covered Bridge (Rating: 4.5)

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

I have decided to add a tab/menu section of my blog specifically for Covered Bridges. If you follow my blog you are well aware that I am a fan of visiting covered bridges with my two best, buds, Shadow and Wilma. I still have many Throwback Adventures to write about, and I am sure we will Adventure to many more covered bridges in the future. Since we have had many current Adventures I thought it was a good time to add this feature. I believe there is one bridge from New York, but generally they will be from our New England Adventures. As I assembled this collection it made me smile seeing our Buster enjoy many of these Adventures. We sure do miss him!

Here are just a few of my many favorites. Hope you too can enjoy some Adventures to these special New England landmarks!

Throwback Adventure – Provincetown – Massachusetts

In April 2015 and in April 2017 we Adventured to Provincetown, Massachusetts. Provincetown is located on the very tip of northern Cape Cod. It is the historic landing of the Mayflower, and has a monument called the Pilgrim Monument to memorialize this important event. Provincetown is well known for its beaches, art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

We had two beach-filled trips to Provincetown, Massachusetts. On our first Adventure we traveled with Shadow, Buster, my Mom and I for I believe just a couple hours. On this journey we drove through the town, stopped for some shopping, and checked out some memorable spots including: the Pilgrim Monument, the beaches, and my favorite landmark, the buoy bench. I remember being awed at the sand dunes, and unique landscape, and disappointed that we did not have more time.

On our second trip Shadow, My Mom, and I spent a long weekend in Provincetown. I booked the perfect apartment right on the beach. We walked the beach every morning, often playing ball. Shadow was even able to join us indoors at the main building for breakfast! We spent time in the shops with Shadow by our side, and of course he was spoiled with many treats, including a lobster shaped treat (see picture below). We delighted in visiting various beaches and even made a stop at the local dog park. It was so nice for Shadow to have a vacation at his favorite spot – the beach.

Little did we know Wilma was born just several weeks before this second trip. We look forward to returning in the future with this little lady. I really appreciated Provincetown being so dog-friendly. You can see a mixture of photographs from our two vacations below, as well as two videos of Shadow on the beach. If you have not been to Provincetown it is definitely worth a visit (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 29, 2019 – Kingsbury Covered Bridge/Hyde Covered Bridge – Vermont

I am a little behind on my blog from our daytrip to Vermont this past Monday. However, I still wanted to share, so here is another one of our Adventures.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Kingsbury Covered Bridge in Randolph, Vermont, also referred to is the Hyde Covered Bridge. The Bridge was built in 1904. It is a wooden bridge that traverses the White River.

We had a pungent Adventure to the Kingsbury/Hyde Covered Bridge. Immediately upon arrival we noted a horrid stench, fecal matter scattered throughout the bridge and immediately proceeding it. We therefore did not venture too close, or across, as we prefer on our “normal” covered bridge Adventures. We viewed the River from the side, noting it was almost completely dry. There were pretty wildflowers throughout, as well as a tree framing the front. The sky was dramatic, changing rapidly during our visit. To the right side there was a farm, with lovely pink flowers adding to the picturesque scene. When avoiding looking down, and breathing, it was quite a lovely scene (haha). Even through it all I could not be happier in visiting yet another historic covered Bridge, it will always be a memorable one, that is for sure (Rating: 3).