May 27, 2019 – Granny’s Ice Cream – New York

I am a bit behind on my blog from the weekend as we had a busy weekend of Adventures. Therefore I will be sharing these Adventures throughout the week.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My friends, and I Adventured to Granny’s Ice Cream on Route 29 in Johnstown, New York. Granny’s Ice Cream is part of the Royal Mountain Campground, and offers soft serve ice cream and other light food items.

We had a tasty Adventure to Granny’s Ice Cream to begin our Memorial Day. I would say Granny’s Ice Cream is in somewhat of a remote area, however was quite busy, likely due to the campground, and popular motorcyle route. Wilma seemed a bit unsure of this unfamiliar environment so she hung out with one of my friends, while our other friend, Shadow, and I waited in line. (Maybe because there was a big wandering around on a leash – haha!) I decided to try the cotton candy soft serve, and of course two dog friendly ice creams. Shadow and Wilma gobbled up their ice cream quickly as we sat in the grass. I savored my cotton candy ice cream, until Wilma, had a moment of excitement and ended up IN my ice cream. The aftermath left her quite thrilled as she was able to lick up this new flavor on her covered foot! Luckily I was just about full, so I guess the moment could remain humorous. We sat for a bit socializing with our friends, relishing the last day of our vacation. Nothing too fancy, but definitely glad to chow down on some ice cream, something I had been hoping for since the weekend began. It was a delicious stop on our journey back to Massachusetts (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream – 5, Company: Just right!)

March 25, 2019 – Wintergreen Park – New York

This weekend Shadow, Wilma, my friends, and I Adventured to Wintergreen Park in Canajoharie, New York. Wintergreen Park features the Canajoharie Creek Gorge and Wintergreen Falls. The Falls is 40 foot in height and includes smaller cascades. Trespassing signs are posted at the gorge as a result of numerous deaths and accidents, so it is not accessible to visitors. The Park also features a 1.5 mile “scenic trail” which leads guests to the viewing deck above Wintergreen Falls. There are picnic areas within the Park.

We had a water filled Adventure to Wintergreen Park on a warm spring day. We were excited to go on yet another Adventure with friends! Quickly we found the “No Trespassing” signs specific to the gorge. We wandered around leisurely, savoring the sounds of rushing water. The rocks around the gorge were gorgeous, and although I was bummed to not get an up close and personal view we appreciated the landscape from afar. The birds were chirping and it was a simple, but lovely natural area.

We were determined to find the “scenic trail” and although we expected to find it near the gorge we eventually located it in an unforeseen spot near a panoramic field. We were excited to traverse this trail. The trail followed the creek from above, through the woods, and across a bridge. The trail was surrounded by bright greens color, including some wild flowers here and there. There were several little spots to view the cascades, however the sight was mostly covered by leaves. Wilma often trotted a head with my friends, while Shadow and I took in a casual walk at his pace. It was fun watching Wilma trying to figure it all out, quickly gaining the trust of new leaders. We appreciated this short hike, and soon arrived at the viewing deck. Shadow and Wilma became instant celebrities with photos and belly rubs from a family of children who were ecstatic with their presence. We checked out the view, again quite covered with leaves, however took in the moment. We enjoyed some time at the landing before heading back to our cars. It was so nice to have friends join us on this Adventure! Lots of laughs along the way (Rating: 3, Company – Amazing!)

March 25, 2019 – Dinosaur Footprints – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, our two friends, and I Adventured to Dinosaur Footprints in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Dinosaur footprints is the location of more than 130 tracks carved into sandstone. Researchers believe this prints are from two-legged carnivorous dinosaurs, by the great Tyrannosaurus rex, and from various fossils. The property is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a paleontological Adventure to the Dinosaur Footprints on a warm spring day. We were excited to have friends along with us on today’s Adventure! We followed a short path down to the sandstone where we found numerous dinosaur prints engraved in the rock. Some of the prints were small and others were large, some hidden, and some clear. It was fun to imagine their paths as they walked many years ago. There were informational kiosks along the way providing lots of information about the site.

We continued walking where we found water streaming through two cement holes and down, forming a scenic, rocky area. We hopped along careful not to slide on the slippery rocks. We did not find any additional tracks in this area but enjoyed exploring. From afar we could see the Connecticut River, a large River with flowing current. It was the perfect backdrop to this unique location.

So as you may guess this is yet another property I discovered through the Trustees of Reservations. We enjoyed our lesson in history today at this distinctive site. So glad we could visit the Dinosaur Footprint property today (Rating: 3, Company – Perfection!)

Throwback Adventure – Wendell State Forest – Massachusetts

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 2013 Shadow, Buster, My Aunt, My Uncle, My cousin, My cousin’s son, and I visited Wendell State Forest in Wendell, Massachusetts. Wendell State Forest is 7500 acres of forest land which includes several ponds, streams, and trails. It is popular for swimming, fishing, hunting, and biking.

We visited Wendell State Forest almost six years ago on two lovely days. I was picking up my cousin’s son Cameron for the weekend so we choose Wendell State Forest to meet as it was centrally located. Wendell State Forest ended up being a great find as we had a wonderful time. There were two main activities we especially appreciated. First, we spent plenty of time on the beach! Cameron enjoyed some swimming, hunting for salamanders, and catching guppies. Shadow and Buster loved sitting in the beach and of course the cool water, while I was able to catch up with family. There was not a sole around which made the beach especially tranquil. Nearby we found a bridge where Cameron located a variety of snakes sunbathing in the rocks, although far from my favorite site, it was fun seeing Cameron’s excitement in these long scaly creatures.

Our second main activity was a hike around the pond, also quite barren from guests. Cameron often walked ahead with Shadow while the rest of us mostly walked a bit behind with Buster. We found some picnic benches along the way, a little wooden bridge, and plenty of natural scenery.

It was a fantastic Adventure, especially as we also were also able to visit with our extended family. Really the perfect location for children to learn and appreciate nature. Cameron is growing up to be such an amazing kid, now fifteen and such a kind teen, so fun to spend time with! He recently was accepted as a camp counselor soon to be leading excited young ones on Adventures of their own. We will always have found memories of our Adventures to Wendell State Forest.

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.

So today’s feature is an adorable photo of Wilma. You may never guess that this little lady is obsessed with balls as we are always on our Adventures without one. However, Wilma’s absolutely loves them and is constantly seeking out a ball friend. At home you will usually see a ball in her mouth, or her running and flying through the air in chase of the perfect catch. I am not sure how the ball got so far away from her in this moment, but she certainly has her eye on it. We have may Adventures in ball play, as agile Wilma puts on a show. Hope this photo brings a small to your face on this Tuesday!

Wilma ball 2

May 18, 2019 – Long Hill – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, my Mom and I Adventured to Long Hill and Sedgwick Gardens in Beverly, Massachusetts. This property is a 114 acres in size, the former estate of Ellery and Mabel Sedgwick. It is currently owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservation. The property includes: gardens, the brick estate, trails, an orchard, a child’s garden, the “Food Project”, and a library specializing in horticulture. Tours are available in certain seasons.

We had a fragrant Adventure to Long Hill on a gorgeous, sunny spring day. It was exciting to find yet another dog friendly garden, what has become the theme of our recent journeys. Upon arrival we located printed property maps and started on the nearby path. Almost immediately we were greeted by a beautiful tulip garden, although a bit past peak, lovely in is own way. We walked around leisurely finding many colorful blooms, and a bright red tower feature, highlighting the Japanese gardens. There were footways in different directions leading to unique landscape features and just about every color that you could imagine, from yellow, to pink, to blue, to purple, to white. We soon arrived at the brick estate, as expected surrounded by flowers, trees, and lovely landscaping. It was almost a magical experience as if we had been transferred into another culture.

We found a perfect, shady seating area next to the estate to relax and enjoy the gardens. We conversed for a bit before Wilma and I decided to take a hike on some of the trails, while Shadow rested in the shade with my Mom. Shadow and Wilma were not too pleased to be separated, but we felt this was a good for both of them, as Shadow appeared a bit warm in the heat, and Wilma quite energy-filled. So we carried on with the plan knowing it was best for both. The trails were simple, and overall well-marked. There were maps along the way and signs marking various trails. Somehow we became a bit lost when missing an expected turn but soon found ourselves back on a familiar trail. As planned our walk was fast paced and energetic. We soon returned with Shadow and Wilma quite thrilled to be reunited with one another. Sweet kisses for all!

After our walk we savored a picnic as we smelled the aromatic flowers and gazed the beautiful property, watching visitors passing through. My Mom rocked her sun-hat fitting right in to the lovely scenery. While Shadow particularly enjoyed a cool dirt corner, Wilma chased after some bubbles floating by. It was therapeutic, peaceful, and quite tranquil. From there we ventured to our last stop, an area scattered with flowering fruit trees. We sauntered through the gorgeous trees, many of them exceptionally fragrant. Shadow, Wilma, and I sat under the trees as my Mom snapped some photographs. It was hard to leave not wanting the spectacular Adventure to end. However, we eventually headed out, another memorable Adventure.

So as you may guess this is yet another property I discovered through the Trustees of Reservations. We loved our Adventure to Long Hill and will expect be back (Rating: Gardens – 4, Trails – 3).

PS – A rolling video just for you Liz!

Throwback Adventure – Mystic Seaport Museum – Connecticut

In April 2015 Shadow, Buster, My brother, My sister-in-law, and my niece Adventured to the Mystic Seaport in Mystic Connecticut, also referred to as The Museum of America and the Sea. The Museum is located on almost twenty acres of land and is the largest maritime museum in the United States. It includes: a redeveloped 19th-century coastal village, formal exhibit halls, artifact storage facilities, and an active shipyard.

We had a unique Adventure to the Mystic Seaport on a dark April day. It was quite the unusual experience bringing Shadow and Wilma into the main building to purchase tickets. We then entered into the outdoors to explore the Museum. There were boats, benches to sit, and scenic posts to pose. We of course did not venture into any museum building but were able to enjoy the outdoor spots, and partake in some exercise, and family fun. As you may know I am not a huge history buff but I appreciated site seeing and taking in a new experience. It was a fun time at Mystic Seaport.

May 13, 2019 – Farandnear Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Farandnear Reservation in Shirley, Massachusetts. The Farandnear was the former estate of Arthur Banks who was a well known professor and political scientist. It includes 2.7 miles of trails, and an Arboreteum. The Park is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a bird-singing Adventure to Farandear Reservation on a very cool spring day. I was excited to explore a new local spot. Upon arrival, and throughout our visit I could not have been more impressed. We began in the Arboretum, however, decided to explore the trails first before finishing up with the flowers. There were maps available, and the trails were clearly marked, even full photo maps along the trails. We were greeted by the proud landscaper/property manager who gave us some fun tidbits about the reservation, and was very friendly. The property was absolutely perfect from start to finish! There was a singing ravine, adorable boardwalk bridges, meadows, paths through the reservoir, and bogs. It was another spectacular Trustees of Reservation property, where around every corner a new landscape appeared. We enjoyed the lovely wildflowers, and lots of green framing the trails. We even saw beaver dams, a heron flying by, and of course soaked in the continual songs of birds. There was not a sole around and the reservation was so peaceful, and therapeutic, awing at all of nature’s creation.

After exploring the trails for some time we headed over to the Arboretum. There were bright color flowers, fun trees, lots of tulips, benches to relax, and landscape features along the way. There was even a spot for learning, and inspiring those little minds you may have in tow. We sat in the Arboretum and relaxed savoring the smells, sights, and fresh air. We did not want to leave but our Adventure eventually came to our end.

If you may be wondering, I located The Farandnear through the Trustees of Reservations. I would encourage you to check out the Trustees of Reservations, as you can search for properties in your area. Many of the land, trails, and properties are absolutely lovely, and the Trustees of Reservations does wonderful work to preserve the land and history throughout Massachusetts. I was quite fond of The Farandnear Reservation and will definitely be back (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Stone Mountain – Georgia

In July 2008 Shadow, a friend of ours, and I Adventured to Stone Mountain, Georgia where we visited Stone Mountain, located in Stone Mountain Park. Stone Mountain is known for the Confederate Memorial carving etched in the mountain side that includes generals Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee, and former President Jefferson Davis. This sculpture is considered the largest high relief sculpture in the world.

We had a historic Adventure to Stone Mountain on our road trip from Florida to Massachusetts. It was unbelievable seeing such a gigantic rock with a sculpture etched on the side. I actually debated posting this Throwback today as I could only locate this one photograph, however, maybe it was the only one that I had of this Adventure. Puppy Shadow appeared a bit camera shy, but he definitely enjoyed exploring the area.

It is difficult sometimes learning about history but yet it gives us a chance to talk about things and make our world a better place. Yet I still ponder, could this Memorial be replaced with a new Memorial celebrating our nations diversity?! Either way I am glad our country has come so far from this sad place in history.

Stone Mountain

May 6, 2019 – Stevens-Coolidge Place – Massachusetts

Tonight Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, Massachusetts. The Stevens-Coolidge Place is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations. It is a garden and a historic home that includes a museum. The past residents included the Stevens family, one of the founder families of North Andover.

We had a floral Adventure to the Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, Massachusetts. I was excited to start Mother’s Day week spending time with my amazing Mother. She has joined us on many of our Adventures, and we were excited to explore a garden location on a lovely spring evening. I had been curious about the Stevens-Coolidge Place for some time, having seen that it was a dog-friendly garden area and also not far from home. I had read that they had a recent tulip event, so was hopeful for lots of beautiful color and blooms. I think my expectations were a bit high as I thought there would be numerous flowers all over the property. However, there were only small amounts of blooms, although still gorgeous. We wandered around to different areas finding a singing fountain, appreciating the lineal landscape, and enjoying the architecture of the home. Our favorite feature was the gorgeous center area that had tulips of all colors.

We took many photographs, had lots of laughter, and enjoyed breathing in the fresh spring air. It was so nice to see the sun, something we have not seen for awhile in Massachusetts. Throughout the evening Shadow and Wilma participated in many rolls and appreciated any and all guest attention. Simple but just perfect. We might just have to come back for a visit when there are more blooms (Rating: 3, Company – Perfection!)