October 22, 2018 – Dog Mountain/Dog Chapel – Vermont

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Dog Mountain, the home of the well known Dog Chapel. Dog Mountain is a 150 acre property on a mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The property was owned by the talented artist, furniture maker, sculptor and author, Stephen Huneck. Huneck turned his barn into studio space and was the visionary for the Dog Chapel. Much of Huneck’s later work was artwork of dogs and the bond between dogs and humans. Sadly Huneck died at just 61, however his vision lives on. Dog Mountain includes: numerous hiking trails, ponds, the gallery, and the Dog Chapel. They even host a variety of dog friendly events, including parties and concerts.

We had a therapeutic Adventure to Dog Mountain. It was two years ago this weekend that our love, Buster, passed away. Shadow and I visited the Dog Chapel the Winter after Buster died, and since then we have made it an annual visit to remember Buster, and support this absolutely peaceful, therapeutic, and amazingly remarkable location. On our first visit I posted Buster’s remembrance card on the memorialized wall of the Dog Chapel. The gorgeous Dog Chapel is a peaceful experience with quiet music, photographs plastered everywhere, artistic stain glass dog windows, and numerous small features honoring all the dogs that have passed. It was such a special experience that I cannot describe it in words. It almost was like a Memorial Service where you could honor the loyal dog that you loved dearly. Buster was an amazing energetic boy. He had a crazy tail, a happy howl, and a zest for life. He was a year younger then Shadow and they grew up best buds. It was absolutely devastating loosing him, and our experience at Dog Mountain helped provide some great healing and therapy. I highly recommend all those who love animals and have lost a pet visit this one of a kind spot dedicated to man’s best friend.

Although the Chapel was definitely our highlight of Dog Mountain we also enjoyed the trails, gallery, and chatting with other dog lovers. On our visit yesterday we started on one of the trails through the beautiful mountain area, with scenic views. It was very quiet and peaceful and we took in every thought and moment hiking on this grand Dog Mountain. After completing this loop we sat by the pond for a bit enjoying the mountain foliage while Shadow and Wilma enjoyed playing, and drinking some water from the pond. From there were headed to the gallery, so fun to have the dogs included in a shopping experience. Although I initially did not see Huneck’s artwork as “my style”, the meaning behind the art, the place it has become, and the therapy it has provided me, really has turned it into artwork I love and cherish. While in the gallery Shadow spent a good time napping in various spots, while I wandered with Wilma, searching for that perfect purchase. It was great to find some little souvenirs from our visit, therefore supporting this wonderful dedication to man’s best friend. It is just breathtaking seeing all the little details around the gallery, and property, from door knobs of dogs, to statues on the fence, to dog carvings holding up the toilet paper! Every feature was considered in this spectacular labor of love.

And of course we always visit the Chapel a second time before we leave Dog Mountain, soaking in the experience. We were lucky to have some time in solitude to remember all the fun times with our Buster. Not only a beautiful location, but really a glorious experience in all ways. I highly encourage all to visit this dedication of love, Dog Mountain, as nothing can compare. We look forward to next year’s visit to Dog Mountain (Rating: 5)

October 2018

October 2017

February 2017

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October 14, 2018 – Bradley Palmer State Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield, Massachusetts. This was Shadow, and my second visit to Bradley Palmer State Park as we had been to the Park with Buster in February of 2016. Bradley Palmer State Park is a 736 acre Park on the Ipswich River. It is a former estate of noted attorney Bradley Palmer. Bradley Palmer State Park is popular for hiking, horseback riding, bicycles, canoeing, skiing, and the Willowdale Estate.

We had a wonderful Fall hike at Bradley Palmer State Park on another gorgeous Fall day. I did not remember that we had been there before, but as soon as we drove into the Park, I immediately had memories of my visit with Shadow and Buster. We started our Adventure heading over to the former estate of Bradley Palmer, a pristine building often utilized for private events. I snapped some photographs and then headed over to the nearby boardwalk trail. The boardwalk was covered with colorful Fall leaves, surrounded by the River and varying display of Fall foliage. As you may have observed, boardwalks are one of the many features I find myself drawn to, and this was no exception. I even took a little video, which you can view below.

After leaving the boardwalk we headed over to the River to check out the water’s edge. The River was simple, but the reflection vivid. We spent some time near the water before heading back to the trail. These areas gave me flashbacks of my previous visit with Shadow and Buster, as we too spent some time at this area. Back on the trail we noted that it wove through the Forest, and along the River, however we chose a path off to the right and up to a sunny trail. Shadow and Wilma appeared enthused by the sun, both enjoying some rolls in the the field, before we turned around to head back to the trail. There were no labels on the trails so we did not venture far, but returned to the boardwalk to again delight in this picturesque spot.

Next we decided to try another location of trails. On the way to this trail we encountered some small, attractive horses getting prepped from their day out on the trail. I definitely would not describe myself as a “horse person”, but was quite drawn to their majestic frame and distinct colors. After stopping for a bit we continued to the trail. This particular trail was between two areas of shallow water, and appropriate for bicycles as well as hikers and other visitors. Another gorgeous Fall scene with leaves scattered along the path. There were ducks in the water, lily pads, and lovely Fall colors. We hiked for a bit before turning around. Although I had a complex map in hand, I did not see any labels on the trails. However, it did not bother us as we chose to visit different areas for shorter spells, versus a long official hike.

It warmed my heart that all three pups were able to visit this stop on our Adventures, even if it could not be commonly. A lovely Fall day at Bradley Palmer State Park (Rating: 4).

February 2016

October 13, 2018 – Bicentennial Giant Chair – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma an I Adventured to the Bicentennial Giant Chair in Gardner, Massachusetts. This current Giant Chair was built in 1976, approximately twenty feet in height. It is located in the small town of Gardner, self proclaimed as the “Chair City of the World”. Gardner is known for its manufacturing history, therefore embracing this well known landmark.

We had a short, and entertaining visit to the Bicentennial Giant Chair. We parked nearby and headed over to to the chair for some photographs. Shadow and Wilma appeared to be looking for the highlight of this Adventure, but eventually took a good sniff of the chair. Too high for climbing or posing on the chair, I snapped some photographs from the distance. It was a fun little stop on this beautiful Fall Day (Rating: 3).

October 13, 2018 -Erving State Forest – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Uncle, and I Adventured to Erving State Forest in Erving, Massachusetts. Erving State Forest is a Forest located along Laurel Lake, a 51 acre body of water. The Park is popular for swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping.

We had a lovely Fall Adventure to Erving State Forest. We were so happy that the rainy day had cleared so that we could meet my Uncle for a hike. We began our afternoon heading down to Laurel Lake to check out the scenery. There were still a couple sprinkles in the sky, but we did not let that stop us. The Lake had a beach area with a concession stand, and a modern boardwalk down to the shore. We explored the area noting the nice set-up for summer beach outing. Shadow enjoyed a roll in the sand, while Wilma had fun with some chaotic digging. Some wonderful beach energy to start our afternoon.

From the beach we headed over to a bright colored bridge to view the Lake. The sun rays went in and out of the clouds shining down on a lovely Fall scene. From there we headed on our hike, up a slope, the road plastered with gorgeous colored leaves. We caught up with great conversation, stopping to check out different highlights along the path. It was a cool day yet our steady walk created the perfect temperature.

I find the best time for a hike is a beautiful New England October day! The smell of leaves, the spectacular colors, and a temperature are all just right! We had a lovely hike at Erving State Forest (Rating: 4, Company – Just perfect!)

October 9, 2018 – Drew Farms – Massachusetts

Tonight Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Drew Farms in Westford, Massachusetts. Drew Farm is a family owned and operated business that specializes in apple picking, and family activities. They have a small farm stand, mostly made up of pumpkins, apple bags, and mums. Apple cider and cider donuts are available on weekends.

We had a delicious Adventure to Drew Farms. It always makes me smile when I find a dog-friendly activity, that is not always known to be dog-friendly. It was exciting to finally go apple picking, a MUST in the New England Fall. I bought my bag for apples and we began up the hill to the apple orchards. We picked some apples and headed around, finding a little pumpkin patch, and straw-seat area for some scenic Fall photographs. Sauntering up and down the rows of apples we searched for the perfect pick, colorful apples covering the ground. There were some benches under a beautiful Fall tree, some colorful flower buds, and many apples to choose from. I think this was the first time Shadow and Wilma had been on an apple picking Adventure, creating quite the special memory on this evening. Looking forward to soon cooking some apple filled treats (Rating: 4).

October 8, 2018 – The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages.

We had a splendid Adventure to the Arnold Arboretum. So fun to find a local Arboretum that both allows and welcomes dogs. We spent about three hours exploring the trails, paths, and roads throughout the park. The gates were closed to cars, which was a huge plus. We begin our journey heading toward the Fog x Hill, containing a “fog sculpture” made up of pure water vapor. Little did I know at the time that this was a man made feature, so quite magical at fog appeared to have taken over the trail. I tried to capture this on film, but we arrived close to the location when the fog was almost dispersed. Still a fun and unique “show” that captivated our attention.

Next we headed toward the Leventritt Shrub and Vine Garden, walking along a trail through the woods, along a scenic wooden fence. On arrival to this Garden the area opened up and we headed toward the Garden. Our ear was drawn to peaceful Asian music and the dance of two performing their cultural art. The music was relaxing, calm, and appealing to the ear. We watched the couple perform for a bit, snapped a quick video and headed on through the scenic garden. Most of the flowers were past their bloom, but I was able to catch a couple beautiful buds on film.

After leaving the Shrub and Vine Garden we traversed various trails and areas throughout the park, including: the beautiful Conifer trail, The Bradley Rosaceous Collection, the ponds, and many additional pathways. Although it was definitely off season for this beautiful park, there were still gorgeous scenery throughout. Most of the time you could not even tell you were in the city, instead feeling one with nature. We definitely will have to come back to the Arnold Arboretum in the high season seasons of bloom. So glad we were able to enjoy the Arnold Arboretum today (Rating: 4).

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October 6, 2018 – Fort William Henry – New York

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Parents, and I visited Fort William Henry in Lake George, New York. Fort William Henry was a Fort of the British during the French and Indian War. It was built in 1775. Fort William Henry is known for the French siege in 1757 where the British were massacred by the Huron Tribe after be allowed to withdraw. The French later destroyed the Fort in 1757 after a successful siege. A replica was built for the filming site of the “Last of the Mohicans”, and is now a popular tourist attraction in the area.

We had a very brief Adventure to Fort William Henry. It was a dark and gloomy, yet nice and cool Fall day at Fort William Henry. We began walking onto the Fort ground passing “soldiers” shooting off muskets. Parallel to these gentleman were historic camp scenes plastered with authentic costumes and colonial activities. We proceeded through the grounds and over to the water view with beautiful mountains surrounded Lake George. However it was then that canon demonstrations began from within the Fort. Although surprisingly Shadow did not seem too bothered, that soon ceased, and we headed away from the area to relax, before heading out. I am not sure if dogs would have been allowed into the actual Fort, but not sure if we would have been tempted by the sizable entrance fee. So a short visit, but glad to see some of the Fort ground before heading off on our next Adventure (Rating: 3).

Quite Relieved to be Back in the Car, my sweet Shadow!

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October 5, 2018 – Silk Road Covered Bridge – Vermont

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Silk Road Covered Bridge in Bennington, Vermont. The Silk Road Covered Bridge was built in 1840 by Benjamin Sears. It crosses the Wallroomsac River, and is approximately 88 feet long. It is one of three covered bridges that crosses the Wallroomsac River.

We had a fun time Adventuring to all three covered bridges in Bennington, Vermont. I debated blogging them all together, especially as they look so similar, however decided to blog them separately. The Silk Road Covered Bridge was our first bridge stop of today. It is the smallest of the three bridges. We pulled along the bridge, with many other tourists, all snapping photographs side-by-side. Cars were flying through the bridge, making it dangerous to get too close, or under the bridge. We loved the bright red color. We were able to sneak along the side, and get a couple photos. Poor Shadow is not yet allowed to swim post-surgery, so we did not get too close to the River. However we still enjoyed our visit on this beautiful fall day (Rating: 3).

October 5, 2018 – Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins – New Hampshire

Today we went to Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. The Madame Sherri Castle Ruins are located in the Madame Sherri Forest. This Castle was built by Madame Sherri. Madame Sherri and her husband Andre were involved in show business, including: dancing, musicals, and costume designing. They were originally from France, but moved to New York. They started their own business and were very successful. After Andre passed away Madame Sherri bought some land in Chesterfield, where she built her Castle. This was her party house, as she actually lived across the street in a smaller bode. The Castle burnt to the ground in 1962. Madame Sherri later passed away in 1965.

We had a mystical Adventure to the Madame Sherri’s Castle ruins. Another Adventure I was thankful for researching ahead of time, as there were no clear signs to the location. However upon arrival we did see the sign for Madame Sherri Forest. I decided to dress Shadow and Wilma in bright orange, as I read that hunters were free to roam the Forest. They did not seem to mind, and we then headed on our journey. We crossed the bridge across a little brook, and headed to the ruins. A little more spectators then I preferred, however, we took turns with the many visitors taking photographs. We wandered around and through the ruins, especially enjoying the stairs up into the sky. There were arches, columns and beautiful stones framing which clearly was a fascinating castle. We spent our time in the area, trying not to miss a piece of the ruin.

After enjoying the ruins we spent some time wandering the trails. The trails were not well marked, but we made sure to get some exercise while in the Forest. The beginning of Fall was clear, with beautiful yellow leaves along the trail. This was Shadow’s first Adventure since surgery, making it an even more joyous Adventure (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Sabbaday Falls – October 2014 and July 2017

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.

In October 2014 Shadow, Buster, my Mom and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls, while in July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls. 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 lovely Adventure to Sabbaday Falls on both of our trips. Our first trip it was quite the chilly fall day, while the second trip was a warm summer afternoon. Sabbaday Falls is highly scenic with rustic railings, bridges, and steps along the falls. There are benches and picnic tables in the area, allowing time to relax and cherish the views. We even enjoyed a picnic on our first journey, while Buster and Shadow played-away. Although Sabbaday Falls can be touristy at some times of years, it is well worth the visit to this spectacular waterfall. As with many of our Adventures it was hard to capture the beauty of the Falls in photographs. Definitely a stop we plan to visit again in the future (Rating: 5).

July 2017

October 2014