August 31, 2019 – Rita’s Italian Ice – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Rita’s Italian Ice in New London, Connecticut. Rita’s is a national restaurant chain that began out of Pennsylvania. It is popular for the custards, italian ice, and specialty deserts. The ice is smoother then the “normal” italian ice and has fresh fruit.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Rita’s Italian Ice. I was sooo incredibly excited to go to Rita’s Italian Ice. I have special memories of Rita’s Italian Ice from my undergraduate years in Pennsylvania. We would go there for a special treat, with the small size being just 75 cents! It was so tasty, a great social time, and perfect for the college wallet. This was my first visit to Rita’s since that time! I was pleased to find that Rita’s provided a small custard cup for the dogs! After ordering our goodies we found a quiet seating area in the back. Both My Mom and I had ordered black cherry Gelato’s, and it did not disappoint. So delicious with custard on the bottom and top, creating the perfect creamy flavor. Shadow and Wilma thoroughly enjoyed their first custard experience and quickly devoured their treat. We were thankful that the temperature had cooled a bit and took our time enjoying every bite. So glad that I FINALLY could reminisce at Rita’s Italian Ice (Rating: Italian Ice and Custard: 5, Location: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Fort Trumbull State Park – Connecticut

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, Connecticut. Fort Trumbull was built in 1977, but was re-constructed several times, including the final rebuilding between 1839 and 1852. Fort Trumbull was attacked and captured by British Forces during the Revolutionary War. The Fort also was utilized as defense during future wars including the Civil War. It is located on the Thames River. Fort Trumbull was opened as a State Park in the year 2000. The Fort has a Visitor Center, offers tours, and hosts special events including concerts.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Trumbull State Park. We were excited to have my Mom join us for our Connecticut Adventures today. Upon arrival I was quite impressed by the grand, and scenic Fort. Over to the side you could see the beautiful, bright blue River, just a spectacular entrance. The grounds of the Fort were perfectly groomed. There were paved trails around the Fort, and a larger loop closer to the shore. We sauntered around the Fort, taking photos, and appreciating the sites. We spotted the Pier which was filled with hopeful fisherman. Near the Pier there was a large Coast Guard Boat, adding the perfect touch to the Park. We sat for a bit and relaxed in the shade. There were many boats floating by peacefully, quite picturesque.

As we completed our loop around the Fort we peaked inside the Fort to view the internal sites. The front desk had stated they preferred the dogs not enter the inside of the Fort, so we did not explore, or traverse to the top of the Fort. However, we engaged in our own personal tour of the rest of the highlights of the Park, covering everything we could locate.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma enjoyed many rolls, and lapped up lots of water. I was a bit disappointed at the unexpected heat of the day, but had luckily prepared well with lots of water, and breaks as needed. The Fort really was gorgeous, towering high above therefore providing vast views of the River. We had a wonderful visit to the Fort Trumbull State Park (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Jamaica State Park – Vermont

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 September of 2015 Shadow, Buster, My Aunt, My Uncle, and I Adventured to Jamaica State Park in Jamaica, Vermont. Jamaica State Park is an almost 800 acre state park, that encompasses the West River. Jamaica State Park is popular for fishing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and winter sports. It also includes Hamilton Falls which is approximately 125 feet tall and sourced from the Cobb River.

We had a wonderful Adventure to Jamaica State Park. We were so excited to meet my Aunt and Uncle for this day of hiking, and exploring. Upon arrival we found the Park to be packed full of visitors, soon to realize that there was an official white water event. Apparently several times a year the dam is opened for this popular event. This added some excitement to our day with this bonus attraction.

We began our hike on the trail looking down on the West River. We were able to see the kayakers from high above, on quite the rapid filled river. It was really a fun scene we were able to take-in while catching up and enjoying this mid-September day. Every so often we had to move off the trail to allow for the eager truck full of boaters heading out to the beginning of the dam. Quite a special environment of which we thoroughly enjoyed.

We were on the trail along the River for a bit before veering off on a slope to our right. This was a tiring trail, mostly uphill so we took or time traversing this mountain-like path. I am trying to pull-out my long term memory and believe I knew there was a waterfall and was hopeful, and driven by the desire to locate this natural feature. I was quite pleased to finally spot the Hamilton Falls and we traversed down another trail to get to the Falls edge. I found the Hamilton Falls somewhat humorous as there was little water-flow, although I guess September is really not the ideal time for waterfalls. However the Falls was quite unique, gorge-like with two separate spouts. We took some photographs before continuing up the trail. We arrived at the top of the Falls, finding a large pool. We actually spotted a latter entering the pool, apparently needed for those who might fall in to this pothole feature. Nearby we found a perfect area for a picnic, relaxing from a strenuous hike. Jamaica State Park is definitely a unique location. We were so glad to enjoy his special Adventure with wonderful company (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

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 video inside the Dog Chapel on Dog Mountain. Our Adventures to Dog Mountain are precious to my heart as it honors the lost lives of animals, including my love, Buster. I was able to remember Buster at this location, placing his heartfelt memorial card on the wall. This landmark is a must-see for all animal lovers in New England, and those who visit. It is very therapeutic visiting this special place. You can also buy items online, which helps to help keep the Mountain open. If you are interested in reading more about our past Adventures to Dog Mountain you can search for it in the search box (to the right on a computer and at the bottom on a cell phone)

A moment from my heart…

August 25, 2019 -Bay Circuit Trail – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I took a walk on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Bay Circuit Trail is a recreation trail of over 200 miles, crossing 37 towns and linking many parks and landmarks. It is popular for activities including: biking, paddling, horseback riding, and running.

We had a simple Adventure on the Bay Circuit Trail. The Trail was a dirt path surrounded by greenery. There was no change in scenery, no color, and little variety, creating quite a monotonous and dull scene. The Trail often paralleled private homes, however remained quiet from voices, and activity. We saw several bikers throughout the afternoon. Shadow and Wilma appreciated the new smells along the way, always so eager to explore!

On the way back I decided to take a side trail that led us over to the Minuteman National Park. This path was extremely overgrown and often I was pushing plants and prickers aside leading the way for my best buds. It was great to see a bit of change in landscape with some logs on part of the path, an unusual metal structure on the side, and bright pink flowers from afar. However I was quite pleased when we arrived at the scenic Minuteman National Park, ending our journey on the Bay Circuit Trail. I was quite unimpressed with the Trail, yet wonder as a walker if I can really give this Trail justice, as we traversed far less then the 200 plus miles. The idea of biking to landmarks is quite extraordinarily but on foot one can only go so far. Therefore I will not rate this The Bay Circuit Trail as I was still grateful to find a new place for a walk. A beautiful day for an Adventure!

PS – If you would like to read more on my blog about Minuteman National Park you can search for this in the search box.

Throwback Adventure – Riverhills Park – Florida

In August 2012 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to Riverhills Park in Temple Terrace, Florida. Riverhills Park is located along the Hillsborough River. It includes: a boardwalk, boat landing, tennis courts, and a playground.

We had many trips to the Riverhills Park back when we lived in Tampa, Florida. These particular photographs were taken from a visit in August 2012, our last month in Tampa before relocating to Massachusetts. (I am guessing I may have other photos, but these are the ones I was able to locate). Riverhills Park is a small, but scenic park with a lovely boardwalk along the River lined with cypress trees. We often would visit the Park to walk and relax, and also take a stroll in the lovely neighborhoods surrounding. It is definitely a place I have fond memories of, and hope some day I will be back to reminisce. Not necessarily a Park to travel far to visit, but yet if you are in the area a scenic spot to stop. We loved our Adventures to Riverhills Park. (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

Other Tidbits, Fun, and News

I have decided to add a “History and Forts” section under the menu on my blog. I am excited about this as we have been on many Adventures on these topics, and it will be helpful to have a separate category, especially for those history buffs out there! Most of these are obvious History and Fort blogs, but there were a couple state parks that are categorized as “historic” so I added them to this section as well. These blogs will continue to be listed in their relevant state, and in some cases may fall under another category (Example: if a Fort is located at a Park that also has a lighthouse it would be in the lighthouse category as well). I thought I would share just a few of my many favorite photographs and/or Adventures. I look forward to adding more categories in the future!

Weekly Video/Photo

Today’s feature is a photograph of Shadow and Buster from one of my favorite local State Parks. It is one I have yet to blog about, but a location we often enjoy. I utilized a special feature on my camera, so it has a unique touch. Reminds me…I really should buy a camera! Another great memory of my boys together!

Magnet picture 2

August 19, 2019 – Lost Pond Trail – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Lost Pond Trail in Goreham, New Hampshire. The Lost Pond Trail beings at the AMC Visitor Center, and is officially part of the Appalachian Mountain Trail. It follows the Ellis River and ends at Lost Pond, providing distant views of Mount Washington.

We had a wonderful Adventure to the Lost Pond Trail on a warm summer morning. We headed out early, planning this as our feature Adventure on a day full of many. The Lost Pond Trail began across the street from the AMC Visitor Center. It was marked with a sign, before beginning down a boardwalk, and across a marsh. Immediately there were spectacular, jaw-dropping views. This reminded me exactly why we journey on long drives for day trips to the White Mountains, like Lost Pond.

From the boardwalk the trail veered toward the right following the white and blue blazes. The trail paralleled the Ellis River, often from high above. On several occasions we headed over and through the River, cooling down in the clear River water. There were yellow wildflowers, bright mushrooms, and berries along the trail. Some sections of the trail that had boardwalks and small bridges, and there were continual rocks throughout. At one point I thought I had taken a wrong turn as the trail started gaining elevation, but soon after this gain we spotted Lost Pond from the distance.

Upon arrival at Lost Pond Shadow and Wilma posed on a rock as they checked out the views. From there we traversed down the side of the Pond, lots of large rocks, making for an interesting hike. The views were beyond picturesque the pond scattered with rocks, lilies, and breathtaking mountain views. Shadow loved his swims, and water-sitting, while Wilma continually hopped on rocks. She sometimes threw me off-balance with her athletic, and unexpected jumps. This place was so absolutely beautiful words really cannot explain. I loved that the trail followed the River, providing opportunities to wade, and lead to the beautiful Lost Pond with glorious views. The trail was very quiet, and on several occasions I thought I heard some animal voices in the distance. The only downfall was that a good portion of the trail was close to the main road, providing sounds of vehicles zooming bye. However, I can definitely say this was one of my favorite White Mountain hikes. So glad we took the trip to the Lost Pond Trail (Rating: 4.5)

August 19, 2019 – Crystal Cascades – New Hampshire

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Crystal Cascade in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This was our second Adventure to the Crystal Cascades as Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I had visited back in October 2016. Crystal Cascade is a gorgeous waterfall that has a 100 foot drop into the Ellis River. There is just a short walk to the Falls that begins at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. The Cascade is along one of the popular routes to Mount Washington.

We had a musical Adventure to the Crystal Cascades. I decided to blog about the Crystal Cascades again as it really is a beautiful cascade with gorgeous mountain views. We began our walk to the Cascades after enjoying our feature Adventure at a nearby trail. The path was short, and had several spots along the way to walk over for a dip, and/or a river view. Almost immediately we could hear the water’s sound, increasing my anticipation of the Cascades. The Cascade was lovely, and from afar I could see a remodeled, rustic bridge over the falls. When we arrived at the Cascades I noticed the path to the bottom of the Falls was no longer available. This made me ponder if some flooding had occurred, leading to renovations. We actually had tried to visit last summer, and the trail was closed due to flooding. It was disappointing to not get too close, however precious memories of our visit with Buster, Shadow, and My Mom will always be dear to my heart.

I attempted to get several views of the Cascades between the trees and then we walked up over and above on the beautiful new bridge. We sauntered across several times and took in the sounds, and scene. There were cascades from either sounds adding quite the therapeutic sounds. I decided to add in a couple photographs from our first visit and mix them with our photographs from today. However if you want to read more about our first visit, and see all of the photograph summary you can search for “Crystal Cascades” in the search box. Wonderful memories at a special place (Rating: 4).