March 16, 2019 – Popham Beach State Park – Maine

Yesterday we had a spectacular Adventure to the Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg, Maine. Popham Beach State Park is approximately 605 acres in size and is one of the busiest Parks in Maine. Views from the Beach include: Fox and Wood Islands, and the Pond Island and Sequin Island lighthouses. The Park is bordered by the Kennebec and Morse Rivers. The Beach is popular for bird watching, horseback riding, fishing, and swimming. There is a fee to enter the Park.

We had an incredible visit to Popham Beach State Park. We entered the Park through a scenic path surrounded by trees, and after a short stroll arrived at the edge of the Beach. It was a mouth-dropping moment as I could not believe the unique, and gorgeous scenery before my eyes. It was almost like we had stepped into a dessert, in a far off land, the wind creating patterns across the sand. Much of the Beach was flat, with some rocks to climb and Islands off into the water. I was so awed by this location that I think I stared for a bit before eventually heading toward the water. The air was fresh, and the water picturesque in all shades of blues. Surprisingly the strong wind was not cold, but just perfect, creating four adorable floating ears. We enjoyed some horses galloping along, quite picturesque on the smooth sand.

After wandering along the water for a bit we decided to explore the large rocky area, my guess was this could have been Fox Island. I was not sure how this would work as Shadow is not too steady, or inspired by rock climbing, however was pleased to find flat areas to climb. There were tidal pools with shells, and lobster traps scattered along the rocky area. We sauntered over to the opposite side of the “Island” the waves crashing into the side, as the wind cooled our cheeks. It was an inspiring little climb with lots of sensory pleasing moments.

I was excited to blog about this location, but yet know my description, nor my pictures will do it justice. Hopefully the videos may add a better visual for my followers, but yet you really MUST plan a visit. Without hesitation I can say that Popham State Beach Park is one of the most beautiful Beaches I have seen on the New England shores. I do not remember the last time I gave our Adventure a 5, and although my company is always a perfect 5, I am happy to say it was an easy rating for this Beach. I look forward to being back to Popham State Beach many times again in the future (Rating: 5).

March 16, 2019 – Fort Popham State Historic Site – Maine

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Fort Popham State Historic Site in Phippsburg, Maine. The Fort is from the Civil war times, and is located along the Kennec River. The Fort’s construction began in 1962, but was never completed. It was named after George Popham, leader of the Popham Colony.

We had a historic Adventure to the Fort Popham State Historic Park, on a gorgeous, and windy winter day. We had difficulty finding parking, but after looping around numerous times we found an empty spot. The Fort was located at a wonderful location on the River. There were benches along the way, providing places to relax and take in the scenery. The Fort was built of granite and had some yellow coloring, although not sure if this was from the weather, it nevertheless added some texture and color to the Fort. We walked around checking out the doors, crannies and main area of the Fort. Dogs were not allowed inside the Fort, although not sure if it was open anyways. Shadow and Wilma appeared curious of this spot too, Wilma going in the doors, while Shadow peered through the gate to check out the Fort. It was really a spectacular site (Rating: 4).

March 16, 2019 – Wells Beach – Maine

Today we Adventured to Wells Beach in Wells, Maine. Wells Beach is one of the largest sandy beaches in Maine, offering about seven miles of sandy shores.

We had a perfect sky-day on our Adventure to Wells Beach. I was so pleased to start our weekend of Adventures with a gorgeous cloud filled and sunny day. This made the beach just perfect for photography, and a walk along the shore. The tide appeared to be in, making a small area of sand, much of which was covered by rocks. Both Shadow and Wilma were thrilled to be at the beach, running, and playing. I was impressed that Wilma seemed more comfortable with the water, sauntering along when the tide came in. We walked and walked, snapping too many photographs as always. The only thing that I did not prefer was that when looking away from the water it appeared to be very touristy, and commercial, houses and hotels lining the beach. However being off-season we were lucky to have a quiet and peaceful day at Wells Beach. Such a spectacular way to start our weekend in Maine (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse – Maine

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!

Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I visited the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse in August of 2015. The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a Lighthouse located in the Acadia National Park in Tremont, Maine. It was built in 1858, is 56 feet in height, and is made of brick. It is currently an active lighthouse.

We had a misty Adventure to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, on a hair-curling kind of day. It was humid and foggy, the apparent theme of this Maine adventure. Upon arrival we started on the left side path that appeared to go into the tree canopy. We followed the disney-like stairway into the beautiful cliffside below. The rocks and views of the Blue Hill Bay were spectacular, even revealing a view of the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse from afar. After enjoying some posing and great spots along the rocks we headed back up the stairs to the Lighthouse trail.

We arrived to the Lighthouse with a crowd of others, causing us to spend some time waiting for some tourist free photography. The shoreline was rocky, perfectly brown in color. I do not recall all the little details of the spot, but definitely a special visit with the perfect company. I think it is likely that we will should visit again in the future. Maybe the sun will make an appearance next time!

March 9, 2019 – Beaver Brook Association – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Beaver Brook Association’s land in Hollis, New Hampshire. This is a spot we have ventured to numerous times. The Beaver Brook Association is a nature education center and conservation area made up of 2,187 acres of land. There are over 35 miles of trails, and conservation programs for all ages. They also have themed gardens, and a demonstration compost.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Beaver Brook, a conservation area we really do enjoy. It was nice to get an early start, the sun streaming through the snow-filled forest. We have been to this lovely area many times, and in every season. Although we have not had much snow this winter, I have found this area to be especially nice when the snow is high, as there are many groomed trails providing easy access.

One of my favorite trails to walk is the Beaver Brook Trail which highlights unique bridges and boardwalks, streams and the Spatterdock Pond. Tending to be a creature of habit I often find myself on the same trail, although sometimes exploring additional paths when planning a longer hike. Yesterday was no exception as we traversed our favorite hike. We did not see any visitors on this trail, except for one mountain biker along the way. On one occasion we decided to venture onto the pond, which seemed to add some bounce to Wilma and Shadow’s step. I guess they knew it was a venture from the norm.

The Beaver Brook land has really been fun to explore in all seasons. Highlights in other seasons have included swims for the pups, lots of relaxing, and great chewing sticks along the way. So glad to have special memories with all three of my pups. Today was another wonderful visit to the Beaver Brook Association. Below you see a collage from some of our many visits. So glad to enjoy another winter hike in the snow (Rating: 4)

Throwback Adventure – Boise Rock – New Hampshire

In October 2016 Buster, Shadow, My Mom, and I Adventured to Boise Rock in the Fraconia Notch State Park in the White Mountains. Boise Rock is a glacial erratic, which has lovely surrounding views of the Canon Cliff. It was named for Thomas Boise who took shelter under the rock after being caught up in a snow storm.

We had a memorable Adventure to Boise Rock on a lovely Fall Day. As you may know if you follow our blog that during this time we knew Buster would not be with us much longer, facing a terminal tumor. Therefore we took every moment on this special trip to create memories, photos, and fun times. So why not climb a large rock with an almost 95 pounds large dog?! That is exactly what we did, as Shadow and Mom watched from below. It was a fun and unique experience as unlike Wilma Shadow is not, and Buster was not rock boys. We somehow managed to get up on the rock and climbed higher and higher. It was an interesting photo shoot that I will remember forever. A beautiful Fall day in the Mountains with my boys, and My Mom.

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.

My feature today is an amazing photograph that my friend Kathy took on one of my last Florida beach trips. As some of you may know I lived in Florida for eleven years. We regularly frequented the beach, and have treasured memories of these Adventures. Kathy did a stupendous job capturing this smiling photograph of Shadow, Buster, and I at Honeymoon State Park, one of our favorite locations. We cannot thank her enough for this fantastic photograph! Check out her business on Facebook – Little Violet Photography- by Kathy Hostetler.

We sure do miss the tropical beaches of the Gulf Coast. Just gorgeous!

Me and the boys on the beach

March 3, 2019 – Madison Boulder Natural Area – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Madison Boulder Natural Area. The Madison Boulder Natural Area is a State Park in Madison, New Hampshire. It is home to the largest glacial erratic boulder in North America. It is a granite rock that is 83 inches long, 23 feet high, and 37 feet wide. The Park is 17 acre in size and has various trails, including the main trail to the Boulder.

We had a massive Adventure to the Madison Boulder Natural Area on a gorgeous, sunny Winter day. I was not sure if we would have access to this Park due to the large amounts of snow so was thrilled upon arrival to see some groomed trailed for our trek. The trail was bright and sunny with huge amounts of fresh snow. Every once in awhile I had an “oh my” moment where my leg would sink deep into the snow, far above the knee. Luckily I was able to release my leg and mostly stayed balanced atop the snow. There was several water areas circled by snow, adding a unique feature of the season.

Upon arrival I was excited to see this gigantic boulder that I had read about for some time. We spotted it from afar, large and perfectly shaped. It was framed with fresh snow, streaming from the top. We began a trip around the rock, Shadow leading the way. We walked past the boulder to get some photos from the backside, interestingly seeming to be a smaller and round in shape. Past the rock we found some more circular water spots, appearing to be a snow covered stream. Shadow was thrilled for some fresh water, while Wilma and I enjoyed the bubbling sound of water. From there we headed back to the rock, and then slowly ambled back to the car as we treasured another Adventure. So pleased to appreciate this famous landmark on this spectacular Winter day (Rating: 4)

March 3, 2019 – Hilton Park – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I made a stop at the Hilton Park in Dover, New Hampshire, on the way to our main destinations. Hilton Park is a waterfront park that includes a playground, boat launch, and a dock for fishing. It is located along the Piscatagua River. The Park has views of two large bridges, including the Sullivan Bridge.

We had a simple visit to the Hilton Park on the first stop of our journeys today. As usual I had high expectations, which were fostered by numerous signs directing us to the “Hilton Park”. We arrived at quite an unappealing spot, directly next to the bustle of the highway. However, we were excited to stretch our legs, and see what we could find. We started off to the dock, the shoreline rocks adorned with snow. Shadow and Wilma peered out of the dock checking out the view, while Wilma let out some growls at the floating ice. I was entertained by this moment, with her constant curiosity of the new and unknown moments in life.

From the dock we wandered along the water, stopping at the boat launch before heading over to the sidewalk under the bridges. We continued to the adjacent part of the Park, gazing at the bridge beams as we passed under. We soon turned around noting nothing too intriguing to be explored. As usual I was awed by Shadow and Wilma’s shadows in the morning sun. We spent some time near the water before heading off to our main destinations. Quite an unappealing Park on a Winter day, but glad we could enjoy a morning walk (Rating; 2).

March 3, 2019 – Sabbaday Falls – Winter Visit – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls. I have blogged about this location previously in my “Throwback Adventure” section, however decided to blog about it again as this was our first visit in Winter. Sabbaday Falls is a popular waterfall located in Waterfall Valley, along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. There is a short, handicapped accessible travel trail to Sabbaday Falls. Sabbaday Falls is an approximate thirty five to forty five foot drop, ending in a Gorge-like area. The waterfall is made up of a series of cascades.

We had a spectacular, icicle-filled Adventure to Sabbaday Falls on a warm, Winter day. This Winter Adventure looked completely different then this location in the other seasons. I was ecstatic to see the parking lot plowed, and a path in place for the hike as I had tried once before to visit this Falls in Winter with no luck. We began our journey up and over a gigantic snowbank, and immediately arrived on the trail. The trail branched over to the stream on two occasions, however not being able to see the rocks or our footing we did not venture too far in that direction. However the mysterious covered stream created a lovely Winter scene with framed circles forming here and there.

We continued on the main trail. I suspect the snow was several feet high as I noticed we were walking almost at the top of the railing of a fence, on the groomed snow path. As long as we stayed on the trail we did not sink down, and were able to walk steadily along. It did not take us long to arrive at the Falls. Most of the waterfall was covered with snow, which must have been sitting over the frozen ice. I was pleased that we had been there previously as we would have really not known the “normal” flow of the Falls.

The most gorgeous part of the area was some spectacular icicles coming down the rocks, at the bottom area of the cascades. Below the icicles there was a gorgeous rock filled pool with flowing water. I really could not get enough of this special scene. Shadow humored me as he continually tried to dive into the water pool, although wondering if he might get stuck, I decided it best not to swim at this location. He sure is one adventurous water boy!

It was really a magical Adventure at this gorgeous location. I would encourage you to visit Sabbaday Falls once in every season as it is just a lovely spot. So glad we were able to get in our winter visit (Rating: 5).