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!)

June 14, 2020 – The Mount, The Edith Wharton Estate – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to The Mount, The Edith Wharton Estate in Lenox, Massachusetts. Edith Wharton was an author who designed both the home and the grounds. The property included: gardens, numerous trails, and the estate. There are tours of both the gardens and home, and The Mount also hold various cultural events.

We had a pristine Advantage to The Mount. I had done minimal research but had confirmed that The Mount was dog friendly. Upon arrival I was surprised to see the simplicity of the property but that did not last long as we soon were wandering into a wonderful scene. We began walking into the woods past the “Stable” before arriving at the main home. The home was beautiful, and quite immense. We admired the home before heading to the nearby gardens.

The garden was bright and colorful, highlighted by a beautiful fountain in the center. We strolled around taking photographs and appreciating the bright variation of colors. From this flower garden you could pass through a tunnel of perfectly pruned trees to the next garden which was more ivy based, and also contained a lovely fountain. Surprisingly I enjoyed the less colorful garden most, quite unique.

Besides the gardens we spent time exploring the endless trails, even arriving at a pond, I believe it was the Beaver Pond. The trail along the Pond was just beautiful, scattered with wild flowers! That was definitely my favorite part of the trails although we also enjoyed hiking through the woods, finding several small bridges, and streams. Some parts of the trails were labeled but they were a bit confusing without a map. However we were quite pleased to take a long walk in addition to exploring the gardens and estate. We even located the Pet Cemetery, a dedication to Wharton’s best friends. A special and sad little spot on our visit.

We also took some time to sit, relax and enjoy the environment, although Wilma generally preferred to lay down on her time, not on my planned “sitting time” – my funny girl. Although there were many visitors and voices they were pretty well spread out and it was sill a peaceful place. Such a beautiful day to enjoy The Mount (Rating: 4)

June 1, 2020 – Wickham Park – Connecticut

Today Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Wickham Park located in Manchester and East Hartford, Connecticut. Wickford Park is a private, non-profit foundation. It is 280 acres in size and has a vast amount of opportunities including: gardens, playgrounds, sports facilities, and ponds. It is also a popular location for community events and private weddings.

We had a fragrant Adventure to Wickham Park. I was very happy to find yet another dog-friendly garden! We arrived at the Park at around five and explored until it closed at eight. The Park had beautiful gardens, decorative features to highlight the garden theme, boardwalks, bridges, and more. We walked and walked, I believe exploring every garden in the Park. Throughout the evening we often smelled the fragrance of flowers, including the lilacs, my favorite smell of all!! We approached each turn eagerly, looking forward to the next garden. And of course we took plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and take photographs.

Besides the beauty of the gardens, we were quite awed by the sky, blue with beautiful clouds. The sun was streaming through the trees, creating a fantastic sunset. It was really the perfect way to end a wonderful evening. We absolutely loved our visit to Wickham Park and hope to be back in the future (Rating: 4).

July 10, 2019 – Boston Public Garden – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Boston Public Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Public Garden is a large park in Boston, Massachusetts. It was the first public botanical garden in the United States. The Friends of the Public Garden and Common works to preserve the Garden, and also various other locations in the city.

We had a metropolitan Adventure to the Boston Public Garden. Today was a unique Adventure for Wilma as she was solo, without big brother Shadow. Wilma had an early morning appointment, while Shadow was relaxing at the Grandma and Grandpa spa we figured it was a good opportunity for some training, and an energetic walk. I also did not feel Shadow would have enjoyed this Adventure due to the heat so we felt it would be a good day for both.

We began our Adventure to the Boston Public Gardens with some challenges with parking, however eventually decided to go for the Charles Avenue parking garage. Valet parking seemed a bit affluent for me, however it appeared to be the best option, and really the only possibility. The walk to the Garden followed a small side walk lined with many shops, restaurants, and businesses. I found this to be a great urban training experience for Wilma as she took in all the new smells, sounds, and sites.

It did not take a long to arrive at the entrance to the Garden. I was excited to visit the Garden, a place I had been thinking about visiting for a couple of weeks. Although I have been to the nearby Boston Commons, I do not remember ever having visited the Garden. The Garden was well manicure, with flowers, historic statues, and was centered by the scenic Lagoon. We made sure to walk around the entire Garden, not wanting to miss a thing. We often took breaks, sitting in the shade, and hydrating on this extra-warm early afternoon.

Wilma’s highlights of the Adventure included: chasing pigeons, relaxing in the shade, and the hunt of the overly-friendly city squirrels. She also appeared keen on walking on the cement around the Lagoon, peering at the swan boats, and watching the ducks. Wilma was very curious about her new environment, however appeared quite content. My favorite parts included: the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, the gorgeous flowers, the Lagoon and surrounding scenery, and watching Wilma experience a new environment. We were grateful for a new Adventure, natural shade, and time to train. The Boston Public Garden is definitely a fun place to explore (Rating: 3.5).

July 7, 2019 – Elizabeth Park Conservatory – Rose Garden – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden in West Hartford, Connecticut. The Rose Garden is one of the biggest Rose Garden’s in the country. It is managed by the Conservatory, has over 15,000 rose bushes and 800 varieties of new and old roses. The Park also holds events including summer concerts, and has a cafe on the property. There are no fees to enter the garden, and it is dog friendly.

We had a colorful Adventure to the Elizabeth Park Conservatory Rose Garden. I was exhilarated to find a dog friendly garden, a long, but reasonable drive. Our plan was to visit early evening to avoid the summer heat. The Park was very populated upon arrival, but we had no trouble finding parking and began on our journey. There were different gardens with assorted flowers, and landscaping. We wandered slowly appreciating the diverse variety of flowers, and of course snapping many photographs.

The property’s main attraction was the Rose Garden. This Garden was centered by a what the Conservatory refers to as a “gazebo” covered by Virginia creeper. There are rose colored arches leading to this spectacular centerpiece. We sat and relaxed at this “gazebo” meeting other guests, many whom were quite curious about Wilma and Shadow. Shadow seemed a bit displeased by the summer weather, while Wilma soaked in every guest she could pull in to her energetic world. Both enjoyed their normal, cheerful grass roles, celebrating a new Adventure. And although I brought water I was pleased to see a dog fountain which we stopped at on several occasions to refresh. It was not too warm, however we still made sure to take many breaks just in case Shadow and Wilma needed an extra summer rest.

After the Rose Garden we walked over to see several fountains displayed in a murky pond. Shadow was hoping for a dive into the pond, and I felt quite dispirited to let him down. We therefore did not stay long in this hopeful area, walking around and finding several scenic bridges made of rock and stone. Nearby we found many guests picnicking, playing games, and catching up with those they knew. There was lots of life, culture, and smiles throughout the lovely gardens and adjacent fields.

We really did enjoy the gardens at the Rose Conservatory. I loved how the more you walked, the more you found, enjoying different gardens around every corner. Even more special for me a dog friendly garden where I can bring my precious bundles of fur (haha). It was so nice to have My Mom join us, creating yet another wonderful memory. A unique and special location. I definitely plan to be back, and highly recommend you visit these lovely gardens (Rating: 4).

May 18, 2019 – Long Hill – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, my Mom and I Adventured to Long Hill and Sedgwick Gardens in Beverly, Massachusetts. This property is a 114 acres in size, the former estate of Ellery and Mabel Sedgwick. It is currently owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservation. The property includes: gardens, the brick estate, trails, an orchard, a child’s garden, the “Food Project”, and a library specializing in horticulture. Tours are available in certain seasons.

We had a fragrant Adventure to Long Hill on a gorgeous, sunny spring day. It was exciting to find yet another dog friendly garden, what has become the theme of our recent journeys. Upon arrival we located printed property maps and started on the nearby path. Almost immediately we were greeted by a beautiful tulip garden, although a bit past peak, lovely in is own way. We walked around leisurely finding many colorful blooms, and a bright red tower feature, highlighting the Japanese gardens. There were footways in different directions leading to unique landscape features and just about every color that you could imagine, from yellow, to pink, to blue, to purple, to white. We soon arrived at the brick estate, as expected surrounded by flowers, trees, and lovely landscaping. It was almost a magical experience as if we had been transferred into another culture.

We found a perfect, shady seating area next to the estate to relax and enjoy the gardens. We conversed for a bit before Wilma and I decided to take a hike on some of the trails, while Shadow rested in the shade with my Mom. Shadow and Wilma were not too pleased to be separated, but we felt this was a good for both of them, as Shadow appeared a bit warm in the heat, and Wilma quite energy-filled. So we carried on with the plan knowing it was best for both. The trails were simple, and overall well-marked. There were maps along the way and signs marking various trails. Somehow we became a bit lost when missing an expected turn but soon found ourselves back on a familiar trail. As planned our walk was fast paced and energetic. We soon returned with Shadow and Wilma quite thrilled to be reunited with one another. Sweet kisses for all!

After our walk we savored a picnic as we smelled the aromatic flowers and gazed the beautiful property, watching visitors passing through. My Mom rocked her sun-hat fitting right in to the lovely scenery. While Shadow particularly enjoyed a cool dirt corner, Wilma chased after some bubbles floating by. It was therapeutic, peaceful, and quite tranquil. From there we ventured to our last stop, an area scattered with flowering fruit trees. We sauntered through the gorgeous trees, many of them exceptionally fragrant. Shadow, Wilma, and I sat under the trees as my Mom snapped some photographs. It was hard to leave not wanting the spectacular Adventure to end. However, we eventually headed out, another memorable Adventure.

So as you may guess this is yet another property I discovered through the Trustees of Reservations. We loved our Adventure to Long Hill and will expect be back (Rating: Gardens – 4, Trails – 3).

PS – A rolling video just for you Liz!

May 6, 2019 – Stevens-Coolidge Place – Massachusetts

Tonight Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, Massachusetts. The Stevens-Coolidge Place is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations. It is a garden and a historic home that includes a museum. The past residents included the Stevens family, one of the founder families of North Andover.

We had a floral Adventure to the Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover, Massachusetts. I was excited to start Mother’s Day week spending time with my amazing Mother. She has joined us on many of our Adventures, and we were excited to explore a garden location on a lovely spring evening. I had been curious about the Stevens-Coolidge Place for some time, having seen that it was a dog-friendly garden area and also not far from home. I had read that they had a recent tulip event, so was hopeful for lots of beautiful color and blooms. I think my expectations were a bit high as I thought there would be numerous flowers all over the property. However, there were only small amounts of blooms, although still gorgeous. We wandered around to different areas finding a singing fountain, appreciating the lineal landscape, and enjoying the architecture of the home. Our favorite feature was the gorgeous center area that had tulips of all colors.

We took many photographs, had lots of laughter, and enjoyed breathing in the fresh spring air. It was so nice to see the sun, something we have not seen for awhile in Massachusetts. Throughout the evening Shadow and Wilma participated in many rolls and appreciated any and all guest attention. Simple but just perfect. We might just have to come back for a visit when there are more blooms (Rating: 3, Company – Perfection!)