May 9, 2020 – Blackledge Falls Park – Connecticut

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Blackledge Falls Park in Glastonbury, Connecticut.  Blackledge Falls Park is an 80 acre property that contacts trails, streams, and the Blackledge Falls.  Blackledge Falls has 2-3 plunges of approximately 25 feet in height.  The Park is popular for hiking, and mountain biking.

We had a wonderful Adventure to Blackledge Falls Park.  We arrived bright and early to avoid the crowds, and were successful at this endeavor.  We began our hike into the woods, a light coating beautifully framing the trails.  We soon arrived at several small bridges, and streams. We could hear the birds chirping, streams running, and on occasion a car driving down the nearby road.  I had read about the Blackridge Falls so knew we should veer toward the left, and eventually climb a hill, but was very unclear if we were heading the correct direction.  Eventually we did and were just thrilled!!

The Blackredge Falls was gorgeous, and grand!!  I had read some reviews stating there was little water flow, so was quite enthused to see two plunges of a reasonable size.  It was just spectacular.  We covered all areas of ground near the Falls taking photographs.  One special thing about the Falls is that we were able to get up close, under, high to the left, and to the right and up and over the Falls.  We spent a good amount of time at the Falls enjoying the up-close and person experience.  Just stunning!  Wilma love the rocks, and posed for photographs.

After enjoying the Falls we returned to the Trail and turned left on the blue blazed trail.  I had read a map online and noticed the blue blaze did almost a loop through the property.  The Trail was someone confusing, with lots of turns and options, but it appeared though following the blue blaze was the correct decision.  I loved seeing the contrasting colors of the dirt, the snow, and the green grass, a unique variance in color.  Throughout the Trail Wilma enjoyed many rock jumping, and showed no hesitation at crossing the small streams along the Trail.  We did not see any other visitors until we were almost back at the parking lot.  It is so hard to visualize what we might find on our Adventure and Blackredge Falls Park, and Falls, definitely did not disappoint.  If we just had Shadow and Buster by our side…  Such a wonderful visit to the Blackredge Falls Park (Rating:  4).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

May 7, 2020 – Boundary Trail – Massachusetts

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to the Boundary Trail in the Oak Hill Conservation Land in Littleton, Massachusetts.  Boundary Trail is 3.3 miles and is the longest trail on the Oak Hill Conservation property.  The Boundary Trail runs along the Tophet Chasm, follows stage roads at points, and passes the well-known “Lookout Rock”.

We had an invigorating Adventure to the Boundary Trail.  I decided to get up for an extra-early sunrise Adventure before starting my work day.  We arrived at an empty parking lot, and began heading down the orange trail before turning left to commence the Boundary Trail, indicated by yellow trail markers.  The beginning of the trail ran adjacent to the road and several homes before veering away and into the woods.  The sun was beautifully shining through the trees creating a picturesque scene.  On the trail we found a variety of boulders, ascended up and down several hills, and walked high above a ravine.  Parts of the Trail were quite muddy, but to be expected on a lovely spring day.  Except for an occasional good smell, Wilma ambled at a fast pace, helping to ensure quite a healthy work-out.

One of my favorite portions of this trail was the scene at “Lookout Rock”.  “Lookout Rock” is quite well-known to members of the local community, a boulder area that provides panoramic views.  We sat for a bit on the rocks, viewing the lovely scene.  It is always interesting watching Wilma, she often appears to be hearing or seeing things in the distance, or at least alert to what may come.  Her sweet, little hound-nose is constantly in motion, not missing a beat.  She even appeared to be appreciating the scenic view, a moment that made me smile, and reminded me of a precious memory and video of Shadow and Wilma watching the sunset at Cadillac Mountain.

After “Lookout Rock” the Boundary Trail continued back into the woods, and if I recall this portion of the trail was much flatter then the former section.  Throughout the hike we only saw one person, with two furry friend, but noticed no other visitors.  Although in some portions there were sounds of the outside world, often we heard birds singing, and felt at one with nature.  So glad we discovered the Boundary Trail today, a wonderful local hike (Rating:  3.5)

October 20, 2018 – Lincoln Woods – New Hampshire

In remembering our Shadow I decided to re-post some of our favorite Adventures on our “Throwback Adventure” Thursdays.  Shadow had amazing solo Adventures, Adventures with Buster, and Adventures with Wilma.  He was one lucky boy!  The post today is from one of my favorite places to Adventure – Lincoln Woods. I discovered this gorgeous hiking location with Shadow and Buster, and had numerous trips with Shadow and Wilma. Special memories flow through my mind from Lincoln Woods. Please see below for my original post including photographs and videos.

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lincoln Woods a location in Lincoln, New Hampshire, along the Kancamangus Highway. We have been there before with Buster, and with My Mom. Lincoln Woods is a scenic area with many trails that enter the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountains. It is one of the first stops on the East side of the Kancamangus Highway.

Shadow, Wilma, and I had a refreshing Adventure to the Lincoln Woods trail. We have been there in just about every season, and it is one of the most extraordinary trails I have found, maybe even my favorite location for an Adventure. The area is absolutely gorgeous, beginning with a suspended bridge, to trails along the Pemigewasset River to streams along the way, to splendid mountain views, to scenic trails throughout. I would guess I have been there about five times and each time am awed by the beauty.

On today’s hike I was overjoyed to find another bridge across the River, as on our last visit Shadow almost did not make it across the suspended bridge. He appeared quite unstable with the swinging of the bridge and completely froze about halfway across. Therefore, I was extra pleased to find an alternate route. This alternate route also provided us a new and scenic angle of the River and suspended bridge. After crossing the bridge and enjoying the views we headed on our hike. Highlights of today’s Adventure included: time at the River’s edge, for some digging, and rock climbing, some sips from the streams along the way, colorful fall foliage, and and magnificent mountain views along the trail. It was a very cool day, but our hiking kept us warm and enthused. Although crowded this time of year the many trails helped mask the numerous number of tourists. One of those Adventures that I really cannot put into words, as you MUST Adventure this incredible location. As you might guess I would recommend a Fall visit in the colorful foliage of New England. I will include photographs from various trips we have taken and may add some on the future (Rating: 5).

Yesterday, October 20, 2018

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Weekly Video/Photo

I am updating my Weekly Video/Photo portion of my blog, due to the devastating loss of our Shadow.  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.  However, I will be concentrating future posts on Shadow, as we grieve his loss.

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.  As you may know we were devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020.  He was 12, and thankfully living a long and pain free life! I will use this section as a therapeutic remembrance of our Shadow, sharing many spectacular Adventures and moments.

Today’s feature is a precious photograph of Shadow.  It is the literally first time as it was his adoption advertisement.  It was love at first sight!  I reached out to his Rescue Agency after he passed and they sent me this adorable photograph.  My emotions flowed being both thrilled to have this photograph, but yet devastated that this special boy is no longer by my side.  I can’t believe he was so ever so tiny.  He was my perfect boy from the beginning.  Here is my sweet Shadow…

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May 2, 2020 – Texas Falls Recreation Area – Vermont

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Texas Falls Recreation Area in Hancock, Vermont.  The Texas Falls Recreation Area is part of the Green Mountain National Forest. The Recreation Area has a 1.2 mile trail highlighted by the Texas Falls. Texas Falls is a series of cascading Falls that are approximately thirty five feet in height. The location also contains a picnic areas, pavilions, and restrooms.

We had a spectacular Adventure to the Texas Falls Recreation Area.  I had been wanting to visit this Falls for some time, and finally decided to take the long drive.  I thought of Shadow often on this Adventure, as it was my first waterfall visit since loosing our Shadow.  So glad he has numerous waterfall Adventures.

We arrived at the Texas Falls Recreation Area following my GPS and clearly marked signs.  There were some cars in the parking lot, but not overly busy.  With great anticipation we crossed the street searching for the direct path to the Falls.  I soon located a lovely bridge across the Texas Brook.  While traversing this bridge we located the Falls to the left, and to the right the Brook continued, rushing through the gorge.  We relished the sites, and planned to return again after our walk.

Our journey continued across the bridge where we immediately found the sign for the “Nature Trail”.  We turned right and began on our hike, soon spotting a sign for the Lower viewing area, which provided an additional view of the waterfall, and close-up views of the gorge.  So beautiful, roaring thunderously!  After spending time on this landing we then returned back to our hike.

The “Nature Trail” ran high above and parallel to the brook before winding up into the woods.  Part of the trail was a slight work-out as it slowly ascended up.  The trail crossed a variety of bridges, little cascades down the rocks, and varied in trees, and natural landscaping.  There were few others on the trail, and through much of the walk we could hear the sounds of running water.  I really loved this trail, flashing me back to my many special Adventures with Shadow to the White Mountains.

Upon completion of the Trail we strolled over to check out the picnic areas, and a new aspect of the river from the bridge on the road.  I then decided to grabbed my lunch and we headed to a huge boulder as I ate and Wilma watched everyone who sauntered within her sight.  So peaceful!  After eating we spent time revisiting the various views of the Falls and locating rocks in quiet areas to sit and soak in the entire sensory experience.  We spent almost three hours at the Recreation Area, and did not want to leave.  The Texas Falls Recreation Area is definitely a special place that I would highly recommend to all my friends, and followers.  Please see below for many photographs, and videos (Rating:  5).

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May 2, 2020 – Waterloo Covered Bridge – New Hampshire

The Waterloo Covered Bridge is in Warner, New Hampshire. The Waterloo Covered Bridge was built in 1840, but was later replaced. The Bridge crosses the Warner River.

We had a river-filled Adventure to the Waterloo Covered Bridge.  I was pleased to find the bridge in a quiet location.  The Bridge was especially scenic from scenic side-view, yet simple from the end.  We found a trail next to the bridge, appearing to run between two rivers.  Conveniently a local was walking through noting the trail to be a lovely trail that commenced at another road.  We decided to explore this unexpected path.  The trail was still brown from winter, but yet unique and provided several opportunities to get to the water’s edge.  This was a nice little surprise on our Adventure to the Waterloo Covered Bridge.

After returning to the bridge we crossed through and over to the opposite side.  It has been some time since we have been able to wander through a bridge, due to the often busy and dangerous trek.  On this occasion we were able to peer out the openings down the river and snap a couple photos.  The opposite side had a small grassy area, and a rushing cascade (suspected to be Waterloo Falls), generating a lovely scene.  Wilma glanced down the cascades, and again appeared curious by the water, so fun to observe.  The Waterloo Covered Bridge was peaceful, and just right.  Definitely a special covered bridge in New Hampshire (Rating:  4).

 

May 2, 2020 – Sherburne Nature Center and Trails – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. The Center was donated by the Sherburne family in 1999. It has approximately eighty acres of open land and trails and the Center itself has various exhibits and opportunities for educational activities. The Sherburne property is popular for walking, nature viewing, snow shoeing and biking.

We had an early morning Adventure to the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails arriving at 5:30am! We were pleased to find an empty parking lot the sun just starting to rise. We began our hike through the field and into the woods, soon locating a singing brook. Wilma immediately heading to the water’s edge to explore and I treasured the sounds of nature. From there we headed over the bridge and began to explore the Trails. I had peeked at the online map beforehand but soon discovered the Trails were quite confusing, often finding labels to indicate we were on a trail, but unclear as to what trail, or how it connected with another. Nevertheless being a small local park this caused no concern and we carried on. Wilma appeared very jovial, jumping up on anything tall, and sniffing everything in sight. Parts of the Trail were quite muddy, but to be expected with our recent days of rain.

After eventually finding our way back to the babbling brook, we were able to locate a nearby Trail with a spectacular boardwalk. The geese were unusually loud, maybe warning of a dog-like, deer looking creature??  (haha!)  We saw adorable ducklings, and located a large beaver dam in close proximity to the boardwalk. The sun was rising through the trees, adding incredible beauty to this picturesque portion of the Trails. This was definitely my favorite part of the Trails at the Sherburne Nature Center!

We spent about an hour and a half exploring the Sherburne Nature Center and Trails. So fun to find a new local Trail system. Below you will see many photos and two videos of my favorite two sections of the Trails, both of which we explored twice (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – Dog Mountain/Dog Chapel – Vermont

In remembering our Shadow I decided to re-post some of our favorite Adventures on our “Throwback Adventure” Thursdays.  Shadow had amazing solo Adventures, Adventures with Buster, and Adventures with Wilma.  He was one lucky boy!  The post today was our Adventure to the Dog Chapel, a spectacular way to honor and appreciate man’s best friend.  I have been there with Shadow, and also with Shadow and Wilma.   We were able to post Buster’s memorial card in the Chapel, and had such a special and therapeutic experience.  It really helped in the healing of loosing our Buster.  I look forward to returning to honor our Shadow.  Please see below for my original post including photographs and a video.

 

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)

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Remembering Shadow and Wilma’s Adventures Together

So today I thought I would remember Shadow’s amazing Adventures with Wilma.  Although nine years apart they were an amazing pair.  Shadow taught her the rules, and helped her feel calm in the unpredictable times.  They enjoyed playing together and their numerous Adventures.   Some people doubted their age difference, but I knew it was a wonderful decision for all of us.  And although I never bought into the idea that she would keep him young, I do wonder as Wilma’s constant energy added joy to his days.  Some of our favorite Adventures occurred in the summer of 2018 when I worked at an Inn in the White Mountains providing us endless, gorgeous Adventures.  Wilma and Shadow had almost three years together, and created such wonderful memories.  Although I could never post all of my favorite photographs, this is a large collection of many wonderful moments.  Here are Shadow and Wilma’s Adventures TOGETHER.  Boy do Wilma and I miss him!

 

 

Weekly Video/Photo

I am updating my Weekly Video/Photo portion of my blog, due to the devastating loss of our Shadow.  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.  However, I will be concentrating future posts on Shadow, as we grieve his loss.

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.  As you may know we were devastated to loose Shadow on April 3, 2020.  He was 12, and thankfully living a long and pain free life! I will use this section as a therapeutic remembrance of our Shadow, sharing many spectacular Adventures and moments.

Today’s feature is a short, but spectacular video of Shadow in one of favorite local conservation trails.  This video remind me how adopting Shadow brought me back to my love of the great outdoors, and also is a wonderful visual of his gentle demeanor with all creatures, big and small.  Watch below and you will see….