June 25, 2025 – White Mountains

This week, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The White Mountains are a mountain range that cover a large part of New Hampshire, and also a portion of western Maine. The White Mountains include 48 peaks at over 4,000 feet. The White Mountains are popular for skiing, hiking, and ATVing.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to the White Mountains. Due to Wilma’s knee, I planned simple, scenic stops, and we did not hike, but instead strolled through gorgeous scenery. Our favorites of the day included: Bretton Woods, and Hart’s Location. I could not believe the spectacular lupines and wildflower fields. I was beyond thrilled as I thought the season for lupines was over but was thankful, I was wrong. Some of these locations we frequent when in the area, but I have never seen such a lupine field! Wilma and Gus enjoyed strolling, posing, and even waded in the water, which for them is not a common site. On a different note, I think this was the first time I have found biting bugs in this area, I am guessing black flies but there also appeared to be biting gnats – yuck! I read later that this is a spring thing, so might have to avoid this time of year in the future. However, although sadly the pups had bites, I never saw them itch them or even seem bothered, so I was quite grateful for that. On a crazy note, I am still recovering! But back to the beauty you cannot compare to the White Mountains! So glad we could find a Wilma friendly day! (Rating: 5 if you do not include the biting bugs!)

June 25-26, 2025 – Tiny House – New Hampshire

This week Wilma, Gus, and I spent an evening in a lovely, country tiny house in Canaan, New Hampshire. This special, dog-friendly location was nestled on acres of land with a pond just down the hill. It had a loft for sleeping, and a downstairs living and kitchen area. We headed to the Tiny House after a day of exploring in the White Mountains. Upon entrance to the driveway, we found beautiful roses and later found wildflowers throughout. Our visit was highlighted by relaxing and enjoying the peaceful tranquility of the property. Both Wilma and Gus enjoyed naps, eating the grass (haha), and exploring the area surrounding the pond. Wilma especially enjoyed lounging in the grass, rolling down the hill, and wading in the pond, while Gus loved chasing frogs, finding sticks, and stealing the ball from big sister. The house was extra dog friendly, but did not have any dog specific items. However, I brought our small dog bed for some extra napping. I am often humored by this bed as I bought it when Gus was a puppy but they both still enjoy it whether they are nestled in it, or hanging out! I am thankful that my pups love visiting new places and adjust well to any home we visit on our adventures. Such a fun and relaxing little vacation at the Tiny House (Rating: 5).

June 26, 2025 – Ice Cream Fore-U – New Hampshire

Yesterday, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Ice Cream Fore-U in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Ice Cream Fore-U is an ice cream shop that services hard and soft serve, in addition to flurry’s, shakes, banana boats and other ice cream products. Down the path at a nearby location they also have mini golf, batting cages, and a driving range.

We had a tasty Adventure to Ice Cream Fore-U. We arrived to find a quiet location, right before the rush came in. There was seating, a playground, and a little garden. The stand was simple, but we came for the ice cream!! I ordered an orange sherbert drink (blaze?) and of course two dog ice cream specials (haha!) We then drove to a nearby location for the pups to have a little space to devour their treats. Poor Gus got into one of his nervous modes shaking and distracted by the environment, but thankfully once back in the car he was thrilled to lick up his ice cream. My orange drink was refreshing and tasty, just what I was looking for! So glad we could visit Ice Cream Fore-U! (Rating: Dog Ice cream: 5, The rest: 3.5).

June 8, 2025 – Rhododendron Path – Massachusetts

Today Gus and I Adventured to the Rhododendron Path at 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 colorful Adventure to the Rhododendron Path. Due to Wilma’s knee, we have not been walking often but I try to take one extra-long walk each week. Thankfully we spend endless time in our fenced yard, Gus enjoys two days at daycare, and I am always trying to think of fun ideas for home. So, although my guilty conscious kicks in a bit, Gus and I still had a lovely walk at the Rhododendron Path. I actually took photo over about a month’s time, as I wanted to make sure I captured the “Path” in full bloom, which going by weekends I would say it peaked last weekend. Although this was just part of our walk at the Arboretum, it is a specifically labeled section of the Arboretum, gorgeous, and unique, so a good excuse for a long overdue blog.

I have always loved this little area of the Arboretum drawn by the bubbly brook, and scenic wooden bridge. However, when in bloom it’s beyond magnificent with every color of Rhododendron you could imagine, many towering high into the sky. On our walks Gus loved following the trail and checking out what other furry friends had been exploring. He is always alert of those around us so was not as inspired to pose, but I did not spend too much effort on this task. He definitely prefers big sister Wilma by his side but has become much more comfortable, yet always vigilant. The “Path” is a small area, but we spent a good amount of time wandering back and forth through the little trails appreciating the beauty, serenity, and vibrant floral colors. Gus surprisingly enjoyed some sips from the brook and of course some jumps on some rocks. Such a lovely spot to explore! If you are looking for this “Path” at the Arboretum I would highly recommend it (Rating: 5 when in full bloom!)

Happy Easter!!

Wilma, Gus, and I would love to wish all of our friends, followers, and family a Happy Easter! We celebrated with Easter cookies, some attempts at ear photos, outside time, and a wonderful family visit with my parents. I did not spend as much time on Easter photos on some years, and Gus had no interest in bunny ears (haha)! So far from a fancy year of photographs but still wanted to send out a Happy Easter message. Hope everyone enjoyed a relaxing day with family, friends, and your furry best buds!

March 29, 2025-March 30, 2025 – A mini weekend/night in Cape Cod

Wilma, Gus, My Mom, and I spent two days and a night in Cape Cod this weekend. Cape Cod is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeastern corner of Massachusetts. It is a popular summer destination known for the laid-back lifestyle. Cape Cod draws tourists for its beaches, lighthouses, ponds, villages, and the seafood shacks and restaurants.

If you follow my blog you know Wilma will be having knee surgery, so we had some simple and short stops but mostly relaxed at our amazing Airbnb. Our Airbnb was dog friendly (of course) with a fenced in yard, dog toy box, water bowls and lots of little aspects that appreciated our favorite furry friends! Besides that, it was absolutely gorgeous and even had a hot tub. We definitely plan on returning to this special spot!

On our journey our little stops in the Cape, included: Ned’s Point Lighthouse, beaches, Scargo Tower, the Baxter Grist Mill, and Salty the Seahorse. Throughout the weekend, Wilma and Gus especially appreciated comfy naps, and digging in the sand. Wilma enjoyed her rolls and requested regular belly rubs (haha!), while Gus continually sought out cuddles. We have not been out too much due to Wilma’s arthritis, and knee injury, so it was nice to find a simple and refreshing getaway that was just right for ALL. Here is a collage from our weekend:

Wilma is 8!!

Today is Wilma’s 8th Birthday! We have been partying all weekend, with the finale of the events tonight (haha)! The party included dinner with Grandma and Grandpa, gifts, cake, cupcakes, cookies, and new bones. I definitely went all out! Wilma loved great company, and one of the most amazing presents from her Grandparents that I have seen – squirrels in a tree! I was quite entertained as she explored this gift. It is funny that Wilma knows what presents are and was beyond thrilled when she saw my Dad approach her with the gift – so cute! She loved her cake and devoured all of the food! Gus enjoyed some food and got to play with the toys too. I love this silly, fun days – just what the heart needed. Here are some photos and videos of the special day. Happy Birthday to my sweet girl!

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

I hope everyone is doing well today! I wanted to update our friends, families and followers on Wilma. I am devastating to say Wilma has torn her cruciate ligament and will be needing surgery. She was diagnosed with Arthritis a bit back and I have been working on finding the best plan and medications for her to make her as happy and pain free. I decided to get a second opinion and a week or two before the appointment I noticed she was limping, and it was at that appointment we were informed that her cruciate ligament was torn. My guess is that she was compensating for her front legs as I did not see one moment this occurred. This diagnosis was separate from the Arthritis which was in her front legs.

As to be expected these items, in addition to moving, and the weather have impacted our blog. I have a surgery consult scheduled and want to make sure the weather is stable and safe for a successful recovery. We look forward to things being back to “normal” and the nicer weather to come. Please keep Wilma in your thoughts as we embark on this journey. I will have to say Buster tore his cruciate and we will be working with the same surgeon so that makes me feel hopeful and slightly less anxiety. However, it of course is not a road I was hoping to proceed down. Looking forward to being past it and on to recovery.

Gus is Four!!

Today is Gus’ Birthday – he is 4!! I cannot believe he is already four. We have been partying all weekend with a fancy cake, toys, treats, and new bones on the schedule for tomorrow. Gus has been my most cuddly pup, he is best buds with big sister Wilma, and has endless friends at daycare. His daycare even sent him a shout-out which you will see below. Gus loves exploring, stealing Wilma’s balls, and keeping me active. Gus cares for few humans but the ones he loves he loves with all his heart!! We are beyond lucky to have him in our world! He makes me smile and makes the tough days just right. Below you will find a collage of our celebration so far…although you may notice he did say no way to his adorable birthday hat (haha) Happy Birthday sweet Gus!

January 5, 2025 – Riding through History, Lexington’s Horse Art

Today, Wilma, Gus, and I Adventured to Lexington, MA to walk, and photograph Lexington’s Horse Art. This initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s famous ride. The goal of this art is to combine history, art, and engage the community. The four fiberglass horses are positioned throughout Lexington Center and were painted by local artists.

We had a colorful Adventure to Lexington’s Horse Art. We have seen the horses before but never have been able to put a blog together so today was the day! It was a chilly morning, and we were thankful to get an hour of walking in on this winter day. We stopped at each horse, checking out the painting and range of colors. Gus was a little nervous about these large structures, but I convinced him to pose from afar. I have always loved outdoor art, often a dog-friendly activity providing a variety on our walk. Below you will find a little collage of the colorful horses. (This blog will not be rated).