September 13, 2018 – Stage Fort Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. In July 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I also visited Stage Fort Park. These types of Adventures are my favorite, the Adventure where all three of my best friends had the opportunity to explore the same location! Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed.

Stage Fort Park is a historic park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It was in 1623 that Gloucester’s first settlers set up fishing “staging” on this land. The area was fortified until the Spanish-American War. The Park includes: a gazebo, several beaches, recreational facilities, a privately owned restaurant (open seasonally), and gorgeous coastal views.

We had a lovely Adventure to Fort Stage Park. I was humored viewing photographs from our Adventure three years ago noting the similarities in both the weather, and our “hot spots”. Highlights of both Adventures included: relaxing on the beach, digging in the sand, and enjoying the spectacular coastal views. I also found myself drawn to the gigantic rock, and the unique cement stairs along the paths. We walked around the park savoring the spectacular coastal views, climbing on the boulders, and checking out the canons, and Fort area.

After exploring for a bit we headed to the beach. Wilma dipped into the water, deeper then most days, although soon becoming spooked by the waves. However, Shadow showed no fear, enjoying sitting, and dipping in to the ocean water. The beach was inspiring, and relaxing, always a peaceful oasis. On our first journey we watched the scuba divers, while on yesterday’s Adventure there was a low flying helicopter exercise on display. The park overall was simple, but had spectacular rocky coastal scenery, and some unique features that we thoroughly enjoyed (Rating: 3).

September 13, 2018

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July 25, 2015

September 13, 2018 – Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted an Adventure to the Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge was built within the last twenty five years and is just forty three feet in length.

I debated posting on our Adventure today, as we technically never made it to the Bridge. We drove back and forth on Magnolia Road before I finally located the Bridge out of the corner of my eye. The Bridge was on the land of a private residential home. The home was located on a busy street, so snapping a photograph from the car was not even an option. I did not know that it was located on private property, so was very disappointed. Even Shadow and Wilma seemed eager, and then confused, as I drove back and forth searching for the Bridge, never arriving for our Adventure. So my advise to you today is, do Not Adventure to the Sawyer Pond Covered Bridge, as you will NEVER arrive (Rating: 1)

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Throwback Adventure – Cedar Key Island – October 2011

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 2011 Shadow, Buster, and I went to Cedar Key, Florida. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. As you may know if you follow my blog, I lived in Tampa, Florida for eleven years, Shadow for four, Buster for three, and Wilma zero as she was not yet born. Shadow, Buster, and I had wonderful tropical Adventures while residing in Florida.

Cedar Key is an island city in the Gulf Coast of Florida. It sits three miles off the Gulf of Mexico and is accessible by car. Cedar Key Island is popular for artists, and naturalists. It is a tranquil location with only approximately 800 full-time residents.

We had an absolutely amazing Adventure to Cedar Key Island. One of my challenges with my “Throwback Adventure(s)” is my detailed and descriptive memories of the experience. However, I remember having a perfect get-away with my boys. We stayed in a super dog-friendly hotel, even providing us gifts for the dogs. The hotel was right near the beach, allowing lots of time to explore, and enjoy the evening sunset. It felt like we were able to explore the entire Island on foot. There were beautiful beaches for digging, and relaxing, dog friendly restaurants, colorful kayaks, boardwalks, and endless shells. We explored, and explored trying not to miss a single spot. I have very found memories of this vacation and will always treasure it fondly. (Rating: 5)

September 6, 2018 – Kimball Farm – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I went to Kimball’s Farm in Westford, Massachusetts. We have been to Kimball Farm many times over the years.
Kimball’s Farm began as a dairy farm in 1908, with the Kimball family selling milk whole sale. In 1939 they opened an ice cream parlor, and began making handmade ice cream. Kimball Farm has grown over the years, and now has three additional locations. The Kimball Farm continues to be family owned, and has expanded to sell food, and provide entertainment, including: a zip line, a golf course, a driving range, bumper boats, volleyball courts, a country store, and a seafood and grill shack.

I was excited to FINALLY head to Kimball’s for our first visit of the season. We were lucky to find a moment when the lines were short, and although a cloudy, dark day, the weather was just right. I ordered my favorite peppermint stick, and of course two plates of dogilicious ice cream. The pups guided us to our seats, and we quickly devoured our tasty ice cream. It is always a memorable experience being at Kimball’s as it was a place we frequented, growing up locally. Almost a little too crowded nowadays, but we still visit once or twice a year, and treasure many wonderful memories with family and friends. It is really unbelievable how it has grown, even a declared tourist attraction in the area.

After finishing up our ice cream, we decided to walk around to check on the latest additions to this marvelous family dynasty. Definitely an Adventure strolling by the goats as Wilma squealed, and barked, even standing on her back paws to catch a glimpse. We carefully made it past and on to the path beyond. We peaked around a bit before heading back to the car. Always a lovely, and tasty Adventure at Kimball’s Farm (Rating: 5, dog ice cream: 4).

PS – I could not resist including our Buster in the midst of today’s photographs. He had special times at Kimball’s too! We sure do miss him!

Throwback Adventure – Fort Williams Park – July 2017

In July 2017 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Fort Williams Park is a 90 acres Park located in the Casco Bay. It includes: the Portland Head Lighthouse and museum, beautiful coastal views, and historic ruins. It was formerly a United States Army Fort, but in 1979 became designated as Fort Williams State Park.

We had a short, yet wonderful visit to Fort Williams State Park. It was especially exciting as it was Wilma’s first trip to Maine! We started our journey with the Portland Head Lighthouse, a beautiful lighthouse, providing a close-up, and personal view. We spent some time near the lighthouse, taking in the moments, and the gorgeous scenery. We then were elated to see a sign for Gelatos, but yet soon disappointed that it was closed. Oh well, we were on to the magnificent coastal views, so no complaining here! There were splendid wild flowers and benches along the trails, a peaceful oasis. Definitely not lacking stunning scenery for some photographs.

From there we headed to the ruins. I do not believe I captured all the areas in photographs, but snapped some quick one of Goddard Mansion, on the hill above. It was beginning to get dark, but I did my best to capture this incredible mansion ruins. A new Adventure for Shadow, and the beginning of Wilma’s many adventures to come (Rating: 4).

September 2, 2018 – Dimitri’s Pizza – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I visited Dimitri’s Pizza in Contoocook, New Hampshire. Dimitri’s is a family owned restaurant with a casual dining experience, and outdoor seating along the Contoocook River. They have a variety of menu items, including: pizza and home made ice cream.

We were not planning on ice cream today, but why not eat some ice cream at a beautiful riverfront location. We found Dimitri’s after our Adventure to the Contoocook Railroad Bridge, located directly next door to the Bridge. The place was bopping, with many pizza pick-ups coming and out. There was an outdoor window and quick service for ordering. I am always humored at how Shadow and Wilma anticipate the ice cream from the counter. I of course ordered them each a dog ice creams, and mint chocolate chip for myself. We then headed to the riverfront seating to enjoy our tasty ice cream. Other guests to Dimitri’s were quite entertained viewing Shadow and enjoy their ice cream, lick by lick. It the perfect opportunity to celebrate the end of our weekend of Adventures (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream: 4)

September 2, 2018 – Contoocook Railroad Bridge – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I visited the Contoocook Railroad Bridge in Contoocook, New Hampshire. The Contoocook Railroad Bridge was built in 1889 and is the oldest existing railroad bridge in the United States. It traverses the Contoocook River, and is open for foot traffic.

We were excited to find an Adventure to yet another New England Covered Bridge. Parking was available at the Bridge, allowing us to walk right over and through this marvelous structure. The Bridge was a stunning brown color, and although dull from the front and back, a surperb and majestic view from the sides. It was difficult to photograph the Bridge from the distance as it was immediately parallel to another. We did our best, and enjoyed looping around the other Bridge, adorned with beautiful flower boxes. After exploring all angles we did find a little trail down to the water’s edge. Although very muddy, and littered it allowed us to exhaust all attempts for a photograph.

It is a fun to find an Adventure that adds a piece of history to our journey. A one of a kind Bridge, only in our New England. We were pleased to explore the Contoocook Railroad Bridge (Rating: 4).

September 1, 2018 – Littleton (Includes the Riverwalk Covered Bridge) – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I visited Littleton, New Hampshire. This was my third visit to Littleton, New Hampshire (having been there with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and also with Shadow, Wilma, and My Mom). Littleton is on the northern side of the White Mountains. It is well known for the shopping district, historic buildings, the art scene, and the Riverwalk, (which highlights the Riverwalk Covered Bridge). Littleton is a popular area for tourists, and has even been voted one of the best towns in the USA.

On our first two trips to Littleton we mostly spent our visit on the Riverwalk, and exploring the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. The first journey was quite a rainy day adding great stories to our Adventure. We found a little restaurant along the water providing us some cover from the rain, hot drinks, and of course the perfect scenery for some photography. Our second trip was a bit drier, yet cooler. On this journey we especially enjoyed some photography along the rocks. It was also a great location for our afternoon picnic. Both visits came with stunning Fall foliage!

On our most recent trip, just yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I attempted to explore various features of the town, including: the downtown shops, the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, and the Pollyana statue. Our first stop was the Pollyana statue of which I had read about and was therefore very excited to see this landmark. A fun statue, bringing smiles to the faces of visitors. We quickly noted the “Polyanna theme” was plastered around town with paintings on the crosswalk stating “stop look wave”, and banners throughout stating “The GLAD town”. This theme definitely provided an inviting and positive vibe for the community, and its’ visitors.

From there we strolled around the shopping areas. We were soon greeted by a store owner providing treats, and water, and letting us know the shop was “dog friendly”. There were numerous piano’s along the streets, again adding a theme of harmony and cheer. We also viewed numerous, beautiful flower arrangements along the shops, and roads adding a colorful touch to the area.

Our last official stop on this trip was a walk along the Ammonoosuc River, and the Riverwalk Covered Bridge. We savored a nice long walk through this gorgeous, and scenic Bridge. Although soon into the Bridge poor Shadow became nervous, but he made it through victoriously! Relieved to be on solid ground, he quickly forgot all his worries with a dip in the River. The dogs enjoyed exploring the rocks on the River, while I snapped numerous photos. After were finished at the River we decided to take a longer loop back. This provided a picturesque view of the Bridge, from afar. Definitely a beautiful Summer day to be out exploring the town of Littleton (Rating: 4, Bridge: 5).

PS – Don’t you worry we did find ourselves some afternoon ice cream!

September 1, 2018

October 2017

October 2014

September 1, 2018 – Groveton Covered Bridge – New Hamphire

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Groveton Covered Bridge in Northumberland, New Hampshire. The Bridge was built in 1852 by Captain Charles Richardson and his son. It traverses the Upper Ammonoosuc River.

We were happy to start the first day of September with a journey to a new covered bridge. The day was a bit cloudy, and gratefully cooler then recent days. We found the Groveton Covered Bridge just off the main road, with parking nearby. The bridge was white in color. The paint was pealing off, revealing a run-down landmark. However we were to pleased to see it stable for foot traffic, and open for exploring. We took a walk down the sides of the rivers taking photographs, and then looped far around to get a distant view. There were many wild flowers in the area, adding some bright color. We studied the architecture as we strolled through the Bridge, careful not to be run down by the constant ATV activity. After we had an opportunity to capture all available angles we decided to sit and the grass to savor the experience. A fun start to our day of Adventures in New Hampshire (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Cranberry Bog – September 2013

On September 8, 2013 Shadow, Buster, and I visited the Cranberry Bog in Carlisle, Massachusetts. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. The Cranberry Bog is also partially located in Chelmsford. The towns bought the property in 1986. It is now used for conservation and recreation purposes. The Carlisle section of the land includes 40 acres of a working Cranberry Bog. The property has wooded uplands, and wetlands with several ponds. There are trails throughout the property.

I was excited to visit this unique location. Who would think a Cranberry Bog would be a dog-friendly, and an off-leash hot-spot. We enjoyed explored the trails, viewing the Bog, and taking in the colorful landscape. Shadow and Buster enjoyed swimming in the ponds, a great option to cool down on a warm Fall day. We saw several other people and dogs throughout, but found the park to be quiet, and peaceful. One of my favorite photographs of Shadow and Buster came on this day, both posing at this scenic spot. We had a fun time exploring the Cranberry Blog (Rating: 4)

Cranberry bog