September 14, 2019 – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cape Neddick “Nubble”. Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We had a perfect Adventure to the Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse. We have been to the Nubble Lighthouse many times previously, but it really is quite spectacular, so I decided to blog about it again. We arrived to find huge gust of winds, an incoming tide, and an abundance of crashing waves, a gorgeous scene. Upon wandering around, we soon found some scuba divers performing a practice exercise. Wilma was quite intrigued by the divers, unsure of the scene. We observed for a bit before moving on, climbing on the rocks, and loving every moment. There were flowers between the rocks, and in the grass, bright yellows, pinks, and whites, just lovely. We explored, and explored, cherishing the full coastal experience. Shadow especially loved his rolls, and often searched for a tidal pool, hoping for a sip and dip. Wilma was quite wild at this location, energized by the rocks, and guest attention. Thankfully I manged to stay on my feet in Wilma’s exuberance. After wandering around for awhile we sat in the grass to relax and savor our wonderful afternoon.

Before we left Nubble Lighthouse I decided to check out the food at Fox’s Lobster House, located on the property. I was quite thankful to see an outdoor window. The menu appeared a bit pricey so a good excuse to order myself an ice cream, and a “puppy pop” for Shadow and Wilma. Although there was a seating area the location was very busy with guests so I felt it ideal to find a rock and a grassy spot to savor our treats. Our timing was not ideal as it began pouring! Shadow quickly began eating his “pop” while Wilma wanted nothing to do with the rain. So I attempted to eat my ice cream, and next thing I knew Shadow’s had vanished. I searched the crannies of the nearby rocks and was unable to locate the “pop”. Shadow decided to go for seconds, grabbing Wilma’s bowl. I somehow was able to rescue it for Wilma and we scurried back to the car. I felt badly I could not locate Shadow’s dish, and thought for a quick moment – did he eat that too?! Wilma was able to eat her “pop” in the car but seemed to have lost interest.

The Nubble Lighthouse is a special place. The only downfall is the large tourist draw, buses even arriving and dropping off guests. However, we had a magnificent visit to the Nubble Lighthouse, a quintessential New England landmark (Rating: 4.5)

Please see below for photos and videos from today’s visit, and at the bottom I included several from previous visits, including with our love Buster

Previous Visits:

September 14, 2019 -Ellis Park/Ellis Short Sands Park – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Ellis Park in York Beach, Maine. Ellis Park is adjacent to Short Sands Beach. It contains a basketball court, a playground, and is a popular location for summer concerts, and locals. The Park is owned by the Town of York and managed by the Trustees.

We had a short Adventure to the Ellis Shorts Sands’ Park on a dark and dreary day. I had noticed the Park in the past but do not believe we ever have explored it. There was a fee to park based on the expected time. The word “Park” did not seem to fit the location as it was really just a big square with a gazebo in the center, appearing more like a town common. However, we sauntered around the park as I worked hard to notice little details of appreciation. Shadow and Wilma relished their happy grass rolls, and as always were enthused to explore a new place, never a complaints from these amazing two! There were benches around the park, and flowers, many past season. My favorite part of the Ellis Short Sands Park was walking above the beach. The tide was in, and the waves a rough, a beautiful scene. I was disappointed that dogs were not allowed on the beach, but was pleased we could walk nearby. There were few people on the beach on this windy and drizzly day. Although I was quite unimpressed with this Park, the coastal border made it just right (Rating: 3).

September 14, 2019 – Old York Historical Society Buildings – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to the Old York Museum Center and surrounding historical buildings in York, Maine. This early English settlement was one of the first colonies. The buildings are open to the public and include lovely architecture, artwork, and artifacts. There are tours, programs and events, and nine historic buildings to explore.

We had a simple Adventure to the Old York Historical Society Buildings on a dreary, dark day. I debated writing and posting this blog as dogs were not allowed inside the building, which only provided a limited visit. However, it a great historic location which others may not know about so here I go….

We began our Adventure at the Museum Center. From the door of the Center we began our journey hopping from building to building. The structures appeared historic, yet modern and unique. Without a map we walked from building to building attempting not to miss one. We also spotted a graveyard in the middle of our walk around the property. Our Adventure to the Old Historical Society Buildings was short as we could only walk around and near them, and besides the actual buildings there were very few outdoor artifacts. Still Glad we were able to explore this location, something many might not expect to find in coastal Maine (This location will not be rated as the site was not thoroughly explored).

Throwback Adventure – Kayaking – Massachusetts

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. Many of these Throwback Adventures will include our Buster, who was known for his crazy tail, his happy howl, and his zest for life. We miss him dearly…he is forever in our hearts!

In the Summer of 2017 Shadow and I embarked on a peaceful kayaking Adventure. We had befriended a woman and her dog at a local park, and were thrilled that she offered to let us utilize her kayak. Unlike you might expect my water loving Shadow is generally not a fan of boats. He does not appreciate the rocking of a boat or any surface that brings uncertainty (smart boy!). However, I somehow was able to convince him to board the kayak, and we graceful kayaked around the lake. It was a very special memory I have with my Shadow. I seriously considered purchasing a kayak at the time, although that dream never came to fruition. However, we had a lovely day relaxing ON the lake, and of course Shadow appreciated some swims before and after our kayak Adventure. I was grateful that our friend took a couple photographs and a video (even if it’s sideways – oops) to memorialize this event forever. Definitely a special Adventure that I will always treasure!

Weekly Video/Photo

If you regularly follow my blog, and the weekly/video photo I would recommend skipping on to paragraph three, specific to this week’s video/photo. I have decided to add a weekly video/photo section to my blog. This blog will 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.

So 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.

Today’s feature is a photograph of Shadow and Buster from a hike many years ago, near the AMC Lodge. It was a gorgeous day and the Fall foliage was spectacular. I LOVE this photograph as it is the perfect summary of an Adventure. Wonderful memories from one of our many Fall getaways! If you are local make sure you make a visit to the White Mountains in October, just spectacular!

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September 7, 2019 – Roger Williams Park – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Roger Williams Park in Providence, Rhode Island. This was Shadow and Wilma’s first visit to Roger Williams Park. Roger Williams Park was created in 1871 when Betsey William donated 102 acres of land to the city. Some of this land was owned by her great, great, great grandfather Roger Williams who founded Providence, and was one of the founder’s of the state. It has since grown, now consisting of over 435 acres of land. The park includes: walking trails, a carousel, ponds, gardens, sports fields, and the Roger Williams Park Zoo. It also contains several historic buildings including: the Botanical Center, the Museum of Natural History, the Casino, and Temple to Music.

We had an enjoyable Adventure to the Roger Williams Park. Initially I had planned to walk the white diamond trail, a 3.2 mile trail, so this is where we began. We commenced at the carousel, and found the white diamond trail in front of the boathouse. The trail soon headed over the road and paralleled the Lake. We quickly found ourselves alone on a peaceful trail, away from the bustle of a busy Park. I was disappointed to see some glass along the trail, but luckily the pups did not get any cuts or scratches. The pond views were lovely, but the algae filled pond slightly skewing the scene. However, we tried to concentrate on the visual experience, and an energizing walk, eagerly awaiting what might be around the corner.

Upon arrival at the Temple to Music we veered off the trail to view this magnificent structure from all angles. The Temple to Music is utilized for concerts, and I believe it was constructed of marble. It quite grand in size, and regally spectacular, just beautiful. I was disappointed to see goose poop all over the lawn, so we did not stay long, and sauntered over to the sidewalk. From here I changed my plan to walking around, and exploring the landmarks, and other hot spots throughout the park, versus concentrating on merely one trail. There were some signs identifying locations, lots of sidewalks to follow, and many statues.

Throughout our visit we especially enjoyed wandering through the Japanese gardens and rose gardens, finding some unique bridges, watching the swan boats float by, and viewing the Bandstand from across Roosevelt Lake. I loved watching the activities throughout the Park, and appreciated the diversity of the visitors. Shadow enjoyed his usual rolls although was thoroughly disappointed that swimming was not permitted. Wilma found some squirrels to chase, her favorite pastime at home. Rogers William Park is a unique location, with many things to explore. So glad we could explore Rogers William Park today (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – Miller State Park – New Hampshire

In May of 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to Miller State Park in Petersborough, New Hampshire. Miller State is the oldest state run park in New Hampshire, and is situated on the summit and side of Pack Monadnock. It is popular for hiking and snow-shoeing.

Shadow, Buster, and I had an energizing Adventure to Miller State Park. There were pretty pink flowers along the path, lots of pine trees, and scenic mountains views. The boys were quite tired from our hike so we were pleased to find a nice little spot for a shady nap along the way. As New Englanders we are lucky to have such a vast variety of state parks to explore. So glad we were able to visit Miller State Park (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Heading Home After a wonderful day of hiking, my smiling boys:

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September 2, 2019 – Farmer’s Market – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I met my Mom at a local Farmer’s Market for an afternoon Adventure. Farmer’s Markets are generally very dog friendly, and are great locations to purchase fresh produce, home made products, and many other items. This Fair was a bit smaller then I hoped yet it was fun to add some variety to the week. We purchased some strawberries, dog ice cream (of course!) and some Samos for dinner. We even found a vendor that had dog toys to share, a full water bowl, and gave Shadow and Wilma plenty of love. Shadow and Wilma received lots of attention and curious questions from other visitors. We enjoyed our visit the the Farmers Market.

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is an adorable photograph of Shadow and Buster, soon after I adopted Buster. Shadow was a little over a year old and Buster I would guess just under three months. It was a huge and nerve-racking decision adopting a second dog but was the BEST decision I could have ever made. As soon as we got home they were instant buddies, constantly playing, and having fun! I ADORE this photo. It was the beginning of our double Adventures. A photo I will treasure, and should easily add a smile to your day. One of favorites of my boys!

Shadow and Buster - Buster puppy

August 31, 2019 – Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Walk in New London, Connecticut. The Sculpture Walk is part of the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. The Sculptures include work from: Lyman Allyn, David Smalley, Judy Cotton, and Gilbert Boro. The Sculpture Trail is free, and maps are available in the museum and online.

We had an innovative Adventure to the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Sculpture Trail. We arrived right before the Museum closed so were able to acquire a map. We studied the map and began wandering on the side of the property, heading around the building and down the entrances. I think my favorite sculptures on this end were the “Foo Dog”, a sculpture from the early Qing Dynasty, and one that appeared an abstract heart, which of course I posed with my two best buds!

After checking out the entrance side for sculptures we walked over to the Deshon Allyn House, a historic home. The amble started down a slope leading to a simple, but scenic wooden bridge. The bridge was surrounded with gigantic, beautiful pink hibiscus, definitely some of the largest ones I have ever seen! It was the perfect entrance leading to the Home, a gorgeous architectural structure. The surrounding landscape was fantastic, highlighted by beautiful features, including elegant benches, and fencing. We snapped many photographs, and appreciated the experience. Shadow relished some cheerful rolls and resting in the grass, while Wilma enjoyed some rock hopping, while monitoring my Mom’s every move. Although you could see and hear the nearby highway, is still managed to be a peaceful oasis.

Our last part of exploring involved finding the rest of the sculptures in the front, and far side of the Museum building. There were several that made me think of hands, while one that I quickly labeled “Noah’s Arc”. We took some selfies, including a family photograph. By this point the Museum was closed leaving the grounds solely to ourselves. We really enjoyed our time exploring the Lyman Allyn Art Museum Trail. I love an Adventure with a map where you are searching for landmarks, in this case creative art sculptures. It is always nice to see art, literally in nature, quite the enriching experience. The Visitor Center was very kind and helpful, which added the perfect touch to our Adventure. A fun day at the Lyman Allyn Museum Sculpture Walk (Rating: 4).