April 20, 2019 – The Old Manse – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts. The Old Manse is a historic manse famous for its history and literacy associations. Writers Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne both lived in this property at one point in their lives. The Trustees of Reservations runs The Old Manse which is now a museum that offers Tours and houses a bookstore. The Old Manse neighbors the Minute Man National Historic Park, and is a National Historic Landmark.

We had a humid Adventure to The Old Manse after a rainy morning. We were inspired by The Trustees of Reservations, and decided to visit The Old Manse to take some photographs. We have been to this area before, but choose to concentrate on The Old Manse, its history, and the grounds. Parking was available right in front of the building, which was quite convenient. We headed directly to this scenic structure, soon being greeted by an information board about the property. From there we strolled past and around The Old Manse. It was exciting to see some spring blooms, a recent and jovial sight for us New Englanders! The Old Manse, and area surrounding is very picturesque. There are beautiful stone walls, gorgeous landscaping, and other landmarks in site. Wilma hopped on several rocks, Shadow enjoyed a dip in the River, and both pups enjoyed some cheerful rolls in the grass. Often we found ourselves wandered aimlessly in attempt to notice all the little details. We were pleased to visit The Old Manse today (Rating: 3).

If you are interested in reading more about our visit to the neighboring Minuteman National Historic Park you can type the name in the “Search Box” (you will see the “search box” at the bottom of the page on a mobile device, and to the right side if you are utilizing a computer).

April 16, 2019 – The Meredith Sculpture Walk – New Hampshire

GToday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Meredith Sculpture Walk in Meredith, New Hampshire. The sculpture walk is an exhibit of sculptures place throughout the town of Meredith. The sculptures are created from artists in the Northeast and are located in areas including: Main Street, The Mill Falls Marketplace, and along Lake Winnipesaukee in Hesky and Scenic Parks. There are 32 sculptures along the walk. The sculptures are changed over time.

We had an educational Adventure to The Meredith Sculpture Walk in Meredith, New Hampshire. I was feeling uncreative this morning pondering where to take an Adventure and was quite pleased when I located the Meredith Sculpture Walk in an online search. There was a map available online, so our journey was set! Upon arrival I was thrilled stumble on a brochure of the walk that included photos and information on the sculptures almost right where we parked. This was so helpful as trying to use a phone for a map, and photos would have been a cumbersome feat.

The sculpture walk started on Main Street, soon weaving through a cobblestone store area, and crossing over the main road before beginning a walk along Lake Winnipesaukee, scenic mountains framing the Lake. The structures were overall very clear to find, and the photos on the map really helped you to spot which one was next. I posed Shadow and Wilma by many of the statues. Wilma had entertaining moments with the sculptures, in some cases being nervous, while in one case even appearing to believe statue was a real person, so excited to greet “Archie”. Shadow, having seen it all before, appeared to enjoy the walk and smells along the way, even enjoying his happy rolls. I felt like a kid again, almost like a mystery to find each and every statue. There was only one that we had trouble, but in the end located all 32. And of course, as you may guess my favorite sculptures were the animals!

There were so many lovely parts to this walk besides the structures themselves. We wandered across an adorable blue bridge, and docks throughout. There were ducks along the way, benches, and some beautiful birth trees. There were beautiful flower buds about to burst, winding trails through the park, and lovely landscaping. We even found a man-made waterfall, and an over-sized patio chair, creating quite the photo opportunities.

This Adventure was just perfect, on a beautiful spring day. I could not have been happier to find this amazing walk, and have a special Adventure with my Shadow and Wilma. Not only did we love The Meredith Sculpture Park, but were so pleased to learn more about the waterfront town of Meredith. We highly recommend you visit The Meredith Sculpture Park (Rating: 5).

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.

This week’s feature is an adorable photo of Buster from his FIRST trip to the beach, in Florida. He was about four months old, and absolutely loved playing on the beach and in the water. We went with friends who had two dogs of their own so Buster, Shadow, and their two friends had a blast. I unfortunately do not think I will ever figure out which beach we were at, however, it was one of the lovely dog-friendly Florida beaches. Hope you enjoy this adorable beach bum below, Buster. We sure do miss him!

Buster puppy beach

April 13, 2019 – Shipwreck Ice Cream -Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Shipwreck Ice Cream in Sandwich, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Shipwreck Ice Cream is served from an outdoor window and as suggested specializes in ice cream and ice cream products.

We had a tasty Adventure to Shipwreck Ice Cream to wrap-up our day of spectacular Adventures. Shipwreck Ice Cream had a large listing of flavors and of course dog ice cream for my favorite pals. Shadow and Wilma watched attentively and eagerly ready to devour their tasty treat. I decided to order a peanut butter cup frappe, venturing away from my normal couple of flavors.

Once our order was complete we headed over to the nice open area with picnic tables and trees. I of course had to take some photographs before the pups savored their treats. Well maybe inhaled is a better way but either way they were quite pleased.

Shipwreck Ice Cream was a wonderful spot to finish a fun filled day of Adventures (Rating: 4).

April 13, 2019 – Cahoon Hollow Beach – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Cahoon Hollow Beach is a large and popular beach known for its large sand dunes, and steep sandy path to enter the Beach. The Wellfleet Beachcomber restaurant is located in the parking lot area and is open during the tourist seasons. The Beach was named after the Cahoon family who lived in Cape Cod for many years.

We had the perfect Adventure to the Cahoon Hollow Beach on a foggy spring afternoon. Upon arrival we parked and immediately were drawn to a stunning view. I was absolutely in awe of the beautiful and unique landscape of the beach area. Sand dunes on either side of us, and a long steep path down to the shore. We quickly jumped out of the car and were greeted by several caution signs including shark warnings, and rip current warnings. This is not at all how you expect to start a trip to the beach but thankful that it was not a day of summer heat when the water really would be a must to ALL.

We then began our journey to this spectacular beach down the steep pathway, with deep, soft sand caressing our feet (well really sneakers). Somewhat of a dramatic entrance, the perfect way to reach this scenic location. Surprisingly we saw very few visitors at the lovely Cahoon Hollow Beach, which made the experience even better, alone with nature. We walked and ran along the Beach for awhile, surrounded by tall sand dunes to one side and the stunning Atlantic ocean on the other. There were beautiful shells, rocks, and even a bright yellow buoy. Both Shadow and Wilma enjoyed some digging, while Shadow relaxed in the sand and even enjoyed some rolls, one of the few visitors noting sarcastically “he doesn’t like the beach, does he?” Wilma was often on the search for shells, sometimes carrying them around and digging them up eagerly, my energizer bunny! It is easy to see the joy of dogs in life, by just watching their zest for life. They enjoy every little part of life, providing great lessons to mankind.

At one point we were greeted by a group of young ladies who asked to say “Hi” to the dogs and next we knew it was about fifteen minutes of chatting and dog massages. Wilma and Shadow went from one to the next enjoying each moment of affection and kindness. They continually commented on how well behaved they were, creating a proud mom-moment. I am far from a social person and it always amazes me how people’s love of dogs builds conversations, and connects people to one another. Special creatures in our world.

The only aspect that was not perfect was the worries of the water. I was cautious of Shadow and Wilma going too far into the water due to the many danger signs, but we still did enjoy strolling along the shore, with just our toes (well sneakers) in the water. The water created lovely patterns in the sand, almost a song of its own. The waves were peaceful, and completed the sounds of this beach oasis.

We really could have stayed at the Cahoon Hollow Beach all day long, serene and absolutely beautiful. Every moment was amazing, and definitely one of those adventures that words, nor photos can capture this special Beach. I tried adding some videos to help capture the experience. Make sure you visit the spectacular Hollow Beach if you are ever in Cape Cod (Rating 5.)

April 13, 2019 – Highland Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to the Highland Lighthouse in North Truro, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. The Highland Lighthouse, which is also referred to as Cape Cod Light, is an active lighthouse and is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Cape Cod. It was initially built in 1797, however was built again in 1831 and 1857. In season there are tours available and a gift shop.

We had a magnificent Adventure to the Highland Lighthouse on a dreary spring day. This Lighthouse does not disappoint as the view is almost immediately stunning! We had visited previously about three years ago with Shadow, Buster, and my Mom. Today’s Adventure began by walking down the path toward the Lighthouse. It was raining and we were pleased to see few other visitors. We arrived at the Lighthouse to take in the view, and then looped around and past checking out the other side. The path ended at a deck-like area with views of the ocean. Both Shadow and Wilma enjoyed some rolls in the grass and appeared pleased with this special location. We took our time, noticing the little details, including some budding branches along the path. The interesting twist to the Highland Lighthouse is that it is surrounded by a golf course requiring that you stay only on the assigned trail. We were glad that there were no golf balls flying over our heads, so that we could concentrate on the Lighthouse. The Highland Lighthouse is one of the most beautiful Lighthouses I have ever seen. Definitely do not miss it if you are in Cape Cod (Rating: 5).

April 2019, Today

April 2014

Throwback Adventure – Agility – 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 the Spring of 2017 Shadow and I had an Adventure in the world of Dog Agility, participating in a local class. Buster had just passed in October and we were still sad and adjusting to life without him. I thought it would be fun to try something different, so why not sign up my extra-large nine-year-old dog for Agility! The goal was to have some fun and try something new and that we sure did! Shadow absolutely loved the class, I think he thought of it as time to EAT as numerous treats were provided as a reward and to encourage activities. Shadow was able to pick up the equipment quickly, impressing me with his skills. It was really a fun experience for both of us. Below you will see a short beginner video of one of our sessions. Due to his age the instructor recommended we skip the tall equipment and high jumps, so tunnels, low jumping, and zig-zagging it was! Shadow put in amazing effort to get those treats!

One unexpected result of the Agility class was that I became a bird-mom, yes a bird-mom. The Agility Instructor happened to be fostering birds for the MSPCA and next thing I knew I had adopted two baby budgies, Sanibel and Sky. I had thought about birds for awhile, and would have never guessed that Agility would open the door for an adoption. Sanibel and Sky have added lots of color and sweet songs to our lives. Although not always easy to photograph I did my best and included a couple below.

Weekly Video/Photo

So today I will be featuring a photograph from Bancroft Castle in Groton, Massachusetts. I find this photo perfect as it is a beautiful and unique spot, and shows Shadow and Wilma’s excitement in the moment. Why pose when you can roll around and play?! I found it adorable, and thought it was the perfect choice for today’s Weekly Video/Photo. See the “Massachusetts” section of my blog for more on our Adventure to Bancroft Castle.

Bancroft 2

April 7, 2019 – Old Town Hill – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Old Town Hill in Newbury, Massachusetts. Old Town Hill is a property of the Trustees of Reservations. It has approximately three miles of trails which includes a mix of tidal river, salt marshes, fields, and woodlands.

We had a lovely Adventure to Old Town Hill on yet another spectacular spring day. We drove down the entry road into a scenic area that appeared to consist of salt marshes and the tidal river. This made us especially eager to start our morning’s journey at this unique spot. Sadly we were greeted by some rather rude visitors, appearing somewhat entitled, however soon were swept away into the splendor of the grand outdoors. Our walk started with exploring the tidal River, while soon were traversing fields, and then wandering into the forest. I was able to peak at the map on my phone, so could mostly figure out where we were located. I was pleased to find the occasional Trustees map along the way, identifying our exact location the map. This is one of the features of The Trustee’s properties that I really do appreciate.

Mid-hike we took some time to sit and rest in the field as Shadow seemed a little tired and warm, however he soon appeared revitalized and began his rolls in the grass. Besides this little break we mostly enjoyed a steady stroll along the various trails. Highlights of our visit included: synchronized double rolls in the grass, the adorable boardwalk bridge, swims in the swamp marsh, and the continual change of landscape, adding surprises around the corner.

The trails we traversed on our Adventure today, included: The River Trail, Adams Pasture Trail, The Boardwalk Trail, the North Loop and The Switchback Trail. The property was unique in that it had such varied landscapes, almost almost appearing to combine several parks into one. This really helped us to ignore the dull browns of early spring and appreciate the continual changing scenery.

If you may be wondering, I located the Old Town Hill through the Trustees of Reservations which I have been learning about in the last several months. 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. It was fun to explore this unique property (Rating: 3).

April 6, 2019 – Malcolm Preserve – Massachusetts

Today we Adventured to the Malcolm Preserve, a property of the Trustees of Reservations and Carlisle Conservation Foundation. Malcolm Preserve is a 11 acre property that is part of 1,300acres of protected land. Malcolm Preserve was previously used as farmland.

We had a local Adventure to the Malcolm Preserve on a dreary, yet perfect spring day. This was one of those Adventures that I debated blogging about as really a quite simple, and almost unappealing Preserve. However, a change of pace for those locals who may be looking for a new spot, and anywhere is a happy time for those furry best friends!

We began our Adventure today excited for a short drive and a new property to explore. We arrived at the well marked parking lot of Malcolm Preserve, eager for a walk. We began our Adventure near some homes before ending up on the trail through the woods. There were some markers of names along the way, but no map, or instructions as to where they might lead. We decided to mostly veer straight, appearing to follow the Estabrook Woods trail. There were few visitors allowing a peaceful stroll, until we wandered past a loud construction site, crashing us out of our therapeutic oasis. There was lots of mud on the trails, and a couple small areas of water, complete with the song of a babbling brook. The trails were often lined with rock walls, adding some scenery to the dull landscape. We ran into several other dog walkers and were pleased that they were quite considerate of others. These visitors were friendly, and my guess was likely locals to this conservation area.

One of the spectacular things about living in New England is the amazing changes in seasons, causing you to appreciate the little details that often can go unnoticed. Today I was so pleased to see merely see the glorious color of green, as nature has begun to spring up. As we finished our hike, walking almost three miles we were pleased to see the sun, and ready to head home for some backyard fun. We are certainly enjoying our spring Adventures in New England.

If you may be wondering I located the Malcolm Preserve through the Trustees of Reservations which I have been learning about in the last several months. 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. So although I did not find today’s Adventure up there with some of the rest, there are so many others worth exploring. However we still enjoyed our outing today visiting the Malcolm Preserve. A great way to start a gorgeous spring day in New England (Rating: 2).