Throwback Adventure – Skinner State Park – Massachusetts

I have decided to return to posting new “Throwback Adventures” after taking time to re-post some of my favorites with Shadow. This has been a therapeutic process for me to share. We are devastated that both Shadow and Buster have both passed, but find peace knowing we can continue to remember them through our “Throwback Adventures”. They were amazing boys and are forever in our hearts.

In August of 2014 Shadow, Buster, Myself, and our extended family Adventured to Skinner State Park in Hadley, Massachusetts. The Park was named after Joseph Allen Skinner. Skinner State Park has hiking trails, and provides an auto summit. The summit provides panoramic views of the Connecticut River and surrounding areas.

We had a scenic Adventure to Skinner State Park. We were so glad to have our extended family join us at this location. We drove to the summit and explored the area. We went on the porch of the Summit House to view the scene from below. There were beautiful sweeping views of the area, including the Connecticut River. The kids posed on top of a large rock, and enjoyed walking the dogs. It is always fun to have a new Adventure and catch up with family while doing so. Definitely a special memory at Skinner State Park. We will have to return to check on the trails in the future (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Other Tidbets, Fun, and News

So today started off a little rough when I thought I was headed to a medical emergency but in the end everything resolved itself. The reason I share this is because I did quite a bit of resting today and Wilma provided some much needed therapy! Although a very active dog she adjusted well to our boring day, even seeming to know I needed some extra love! It was a well needed distraction. Dogs are just amazing companions. And of course I cannot neglect to thank my parents on this stressful day. They are amazing!

So instead of the Adventure I had planned I will share my happy summary of the day – sweet Wilma ❤️

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Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

I have decided to return to the “normal” Weekly Video/Photo section of my blog. As you likely know we lost Shadow about two months ago and I have been focusing this section on Shadow. However, I have peace knowing I will continue to highlight favorite photographs including Shadow and Buster. The plan will still be to still 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.

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. We were recently devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020. It is so painful to know Shadow and Buster are both gone, but they will be in our hearts forever!

My feature today is a photograph of Shadow and Buster as we were heading home from an Adventure back in May of 2015. For as long as I remember Shadow has sat in the center of the backseat so his head is in between the seats, and both Wilma and Buster often cuddled with him as we drove, their pillows! This photo is one that melts my heart as it is a good description of a great outing with two best buds. I will definitely relish it forever, and have a version if it in a frame at my house. Glad they were able to have almost seven spectacular years together. They were amazing travel companions, and furever friends. I sure do miss my boys.

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August 10, 2020 – Eastern Point Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Eastern Point Lighthouse in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The Eastern Point Lighthouse was built in the 1880s and is currently an active lighthouse. On the property you will also find: the oil house, radio beacon, fog horn building, and Dog Bar Breakwater. Access inside the fence is forbidden, however there are good views of the light station from the exterior. There is a $10 parking fee for parking.

We had a tranquil Adventure to the Eastern Point Lighthouse. We began our day with a long walk in Gloucester before heading over to Eastern Point Lighthouse. I have been interested in the Eastern Point Lighthouse for some time, and finally did some more extensive research which indicated that attendance is permitted. Upon arrival we found ourselves the only car in the parking lot, with two walkers just exiting. We immediately walked over to the rocky shore filled with colorful seaweed and the harbor scattered with bobbing boats. It was beautiful! We took our time appreciating the peace and beauty of our surroundings.

From there we wandered over to the breakwater. It did not seem as though we could get to there from the beach at first, but I soon realized that was the pathway. We viewed the Lighthouse from different angles as we headed over to the breakwater. The breakwater was very long, and provided easy footing, although not something I would recommend for those unsteady on their feet. We walked along and I continually peered back to see various viewpoints of the Lighthouse. The sun was quite shiny for photographs but I still snapped away. As we got further we noticed the breakwater was clearly owned by the seagulls but to be expected at a quiet coastal oasis. It was funny to hear them warning their peers of the deer-like creature heading onto their grounds. Wilma was eager to stare them down and loved all the new smells from the sea. At the end we found what I believe is the structure for the electric fog signal, almost a little lighthouse. A fun little aspect on the breakwater.

We then returned down the breakwater appreciating the ocean, boats, and view of the lighthouse from afar. Such a lovely location! And of course we ended the Adventure with some fun on the beach. Wilma enjoyed some digging, and attempted running energized by the coast. She rubbed her adorable face in the seaweed and waded in the water, continually sticking her nose in, quite entertaining to watch. I am glad Wilma finally recognizes that water can provide a cooling effect. Such a spectacular Adventure to the Eastern Point Lighthouse (Rating: 4.5).

August 7, 2020 – The White Mountains – New Hampshire

Yesterday Wilma 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 spectacular Adventure to the White Mountains. I set my alarm for 3am (yikes!) to get an early start on our day-trip. We visited some of our favorite spots, and enjoyed every minute! We did some hiking, waterfall chasing, and relaxed at some of our preferred scenic spots. It was our first time in the Mountains since we lost Shadow which made me very sad. So glad we had so many Adventures with both Buster and Shadow in the endless beauty of the White Mountains. Furever precious memories! ❤️

Since we have Adventured to and blogged about all of these locations previously I decided to write my blog differently today. Below you will see each location with photos and videos, and two or three sentences about each. I have placed the waterfalls in their own category as many of my visitors are waterfall fanatics. In addition I will add the link to my original post so you can click on that if you are interested in reading more. Feel free to ask any questions about these Adventures through the contact form or in the comments. The White Mountains are definitely one the most beautiful spots in New England!

The Basin/Pemi Trail
The Basin/Pemi Trail is a gorgeous location filled with cascades and waterfalls. It can be crowded during the summer months as is a magnificent place to cool down and relax. I discovered this location with Buster, Shadow, and My Mom and it quickly became one of my favorites.

Links from previous blogs on the Basin/Pemi Trail:
https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

Ammonoosuc Lake Trail
Ammonoosuc Lake Trail is one of my favorites, although short it is quiet, and gorgeous! I first discovered this Trail when working weekends in the White Mountains with Shadow and Wilma. Not easy to get a kayak there but that sure would be magical!

Link from previous blog On the Ammonoosuc Trail: https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/987

The Basin-Cascades Trail
The Basin-Cascades Trail can be found at the Basin, and eventually connects to other trails including Lonesome Lake. It is filled with waterfalls, and cascades, and has gorgeous mountain views. I discovered the Trail with Shadow and just love it!

Links from Previous blogs on the Basin-Cascades Trail
https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

Kinsman Falls
Kinsman Falls is located on the Basin-Cascades Trail. I especially love Kinsman Falls as it is unique, you can get close with a climb, and I discovered it by accident. It is generally a quiet location, and is very peaceful.

Links from previous blogs: (Kinsman Falls was not blogged about individually in these blogs but included in the location)

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

Baby Flume
Baby Flume is located in the Basin on the Pemi Trail. The water flow is great although it is a short cascade. Again, it is not one I would declare a waterfall, it is listed as so!

Links from previous blogs: (Baby Flume was not blogged about individually in these blogs but included in the location)

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/7860

https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/710

Boise Rock
Boise Rock is not overly appealing, but if you are into rocks and geology it definitely is your place. I have special memories posing with Buster there, on a trip we had knowing he would not live long due to a terminal diagnosis. The area around Boise Rock provides lovely views of the Mountains, especially in the fall.

Link from previous blog on Boise Rock: https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/5042

Wiley Pond
I first discovered Wiley Pond with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom, and have one of my Mom’s brilliant photographs framed from this location. It is scenic spot that has a short trail, and has other trail beginnings. This especially is great for those who want to appreciate the gorgeous scenery and are not able to hike.

Link from previous blog on Wiley Pond: https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/3920

Saco Lake Trail

This Trail is located right on the road across from AMC Lodge on Route 302. It is very short, but provides some fun walkways above the Trail. We love it as it is unique, and picturesque.

**I took a video but it did not seem to take – darn!

Link from previous blog on the Saco Lake Trail: https://wordpress.com/post/adventuresofshadowandwilma.com/734

August 7, 2020 – Silver Cascade – New Hampshire

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Silver Cascade in the Harts Location of Crawford Notch State Park. Crawford Notch State Park is part of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Silver Cascade is approximately 250 feet tall that is made up of connecting cascades. Silver Cascade can be found on the side of the road on Route 302 and is a popular swimming hole.

Wilma and I had a quiet Adventure to Silver Cascade. We had actually stopped there before in the past, but did not see much to explore and were only there briefly. I was surprised to find very few visitors were at the Falls as I had read that it was a popular location. We crossed the busy Route 302 from the parking lot and began wandering closer. The Falls was tall, with varying cascades, almost easier to view. We arrived to find one family, and a talented painter. I snapped some photographs and enjoyed the sight. Although the Falls was very tall I found it somewhat unappealing. Wilma was excited to see the kids playing, hoping for some love from afar, and I dreamed about joining them as they cooled off in the Falls. We peered at the Falls for a bit before heading back to the car. Definitely challenging to photograph, and really nothing to exciting, but still glad we could finally Adventure to Silver Falls (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Indianapolis, Indiana

In the summer of 2008 Shadow and I Adventured to Indianapolis, Indiana on the way home to Massachusetts from Florida for summer break. Indianapolis is the state capital of Indiana. It is well known for being the host of the Indy 500, and for the many green areas and monuments throughout the city.

Shadow and I had an exercise-filled Adventure to Indianapolis. We lived the ritzy life staying in a fancy hotel on the canal. I absolutely loved the canal, it was beautiful, and picturesque. We walked all around the city from the hotel exploring every place we could find. This Adventure was long ago but I remember really enjoy visiting the city and exploring. Definitely a city I would like to visit again in the future. So glad I had many special Adventures with Shadow. I sure do miss him (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

August 5, 2020 – Lyman Estate – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Lyman Estate in Waltham, Massachusetts. The Lyman Estate is also referred to as the “the Vale”. The home was built in 1793, owned by shipping merchant Theodore Lyman. The home is a National Historic Landmark, and is rented for weddings, corporate events and also has a greenhouse on site. Tours of the home are available, but may be offered on a limited basis due to COVID. In addition the ballroom of the home was used for the 2019 film “Little Women”.

We had a relaxing Adventure to Lyman Estate. We arrived to find just one car in the parking lot. We decided to lounge in the shade for awhile as Wilma still appeared warm from our Adventure to Brookline Reservoir Park. After cooling down we wandered around the property first viewing the gardens, which were highlighted by beautiful phlox. We followed the garden to the greenhouse, which is currently closed due to COVID. From there we headed to the front of the home to take some photographs. The home was gigantic, and well maintained. There was not much to see at the property. We decided to enjoy one more lounge in the shade before heading home for the day. Not the most appealing location, but nice to cross another National Historic Landmark off the list. Glad we could Adventure to Lyman Estate (This Adventure will not be rated as only the grounds were explored).

August 5, 2020 – Brookline Reservoir Park – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Brookline Reservoir Park in Brookline, Massachusetts. Brookline Reservoir Park has a trail around the Brookline Reservoir of approximately one mile in length. Brookline Reservoir is a water supply for Boston. The Park is popular for walking, jogging and fishing.

We had a nice Adventure to the Brookline Reservoir Park. I was planning a trip to Rhode Island but with the last minute changes to COVID travel guidelines we changed to this back up plan. I had been curious about the Brookline Reservoir Park for some time, so was pleased to finally visit. The Park has been under construction and re-opened in June. I was thankful to find available parking as we started our Adventure late arriving at 9:30.

As I had read in my research the “trail” requested a one-way traffic pattern. I appreciated this for several reasons, including the COVID precautions. We began on our walk around the Reservoir, surprised to find few visitors. There was not much to see, but we still enjoyed our walk. The path had numerous benches, and besides endless geese poop it was quite clean. We took our time as Wilma appeared quite warm in the sun. Wilma engaged in a humorous, random roll in the middle of the walking path, and laid down to rest as needed. She loved smelling the trees and often smiled at me as we trotted, my sweet girl. Although the path was a bit unappealing a good change of pace on this warm day. So glad we could Adventure to the Brookline Reservoir Park today (Rating: 3.5).

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog please skip to paragraph three…

My feature today is an adorable photograph of Wilma. We had a small family party this weekend to celebrate our families’ summer birthdays and of course Wilma had to participate! It was a beach theme so everyone, including Wilma, wore their lauas. I love this cute photograph, and hope it brings a smile to your day. My sweet Wilma…

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