August 1, 2021 – Go Out Doors – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, Gus, and I adventured to “Go Out Doors” in Lexington, Massachusetts. “Go Out Doors” is a project sponsored by the Lexington Council for the Arts. “Go Out Doors” is a public art campaign where local artists paint recycled doors, and four additional doors have been painted by high school students. The goal of the project is to promote healthy activity, and appreciating the outdoors. The doors have been installed on the Minuteman Bikeway near the common, and on greenery to the right of Lexington High School.

We had an art-filled adventure to “Go Out Doors”. We have actually seen this unique display numerous times but thought it would be a fun thing to blog about so today was the day. We enjoyed our walk around town and on the Minuteman Bikeway this morning, making sure to stop and view each door. You will see many of these doors in my photographs below, although I found the lighting made it a bit difficult to capture. I enjoy the “Go Out Doors” project as it adds a fun touch to a “normal” walk. Each door is beautiful, and unique, many bright colors and lovely artwork. Along our walk Wilma made sure to appreciate some rolls, Gus loved finding sticks, and I attempted endless poses, although realized I need to add some bribery next time (haha). Lexington is a great little town, filled with history, restaurants, shops, and the Minuteman Bikeway going right through the center of town. I would encourage you to check out “Go Out Doors” if you are in the area, a fun and colorful “campaign”. Glad to blog about “Go Out Doors” today (This blog will not be rated).

March 28, 2020 – Battle Road Trail, Part II – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Battle Road Trail in Concord, Massachusetts. The Battle Road Trail is an almost ten mile round trip Trail, connecting historic sites from Concord to Lexington Massachusetts. The Trail focuses on the Battle of 1775 which began the American Revolution. It crosses wetlands, forests, and farmlands, and contains various landmarks and kiosks along the way. The Trail is part of the Minute Man National Historic Park.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Battle Trail. This was the first time we have been to this section of the Battle Trail, so I am therefore titling it “Part II”. We parked at the Hartwell Tavern Parking Lot as on our first Adventure (Part I), the Hartwell Tavern was where we concluded our hike. Today we began our walk down the Trail locating a picnic area, and a weeded patch scattered with crocuses, a gorgeous sign of spring. This side-trail from the parking lot soon dropped us right to the Hartwell Tavern where we turned left and began our Part II Adventure on the Battle Trail.

The Battle Trail was the busiest I have ever seen it. I have been quite humored by the fact that a Pandemic has caused so many discover the magnificent outdoors, leading the trails to be over-crowded with guests. This sadly has caused many places to close but we were relieved that although the facilities were closed the physical Battle Trail was still open. And of course when I say “humored” I do acknowledge that it is a very worrisome time, however, I never would have expected everyone to flood to the quiet oasis of the outdoors.

As expected, the Battle Trail was end of winter brown, however there were small aspects of color in various buds. In many parts the trails were edged by perfectly shaped rock fences, adding a lovely frame. We passed historical buildings, remnants of battle, and were educated by kiosks along the trail. I was surprised to find two boardwalks along the Trail, in my mind an unexpected feature of a historic landmark. The boardwalks appeared to transform us into a new environment, a wonderful aspect of the Trail.

We spent about three hours walking the Battle Trail, including exploring several side-trails. I had planned to hike the entire second half of the Trail, often thinking we were close to the finish, although no way to know. However Shadow seemed quite tired and Wilma appeared to be re-aggravated a sore leg, so I regretfully headed back, feeling this was best for my furry best buds. So there will be a “Part III” in the future. no matter how short it may be! Such a wonderful day to enjoy a walk on the Battle Trail (Rating: 3.5).

(If you are interested in reading Part I of the Battle Trail, you can type “Battle Road Trail” into the search box. I will be updating it immediately after posting this blog to indicate “Part I”.)

January 1, 2020 – Minuteman Bikeway – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway in Lexington, Massachusetts. The Minuteman Bikeway was built between 1992-1993 along an inactive railroad corridor and runs from Cambridge to Bedford. The Bikeway is a paved trail and is 10 miles in length.

We had a blue-sky Adventure to the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway on our first Adventure of the New Year. My plan initially was to take a day-trip to Connecticut but after injuring my back yesterday, I thought a local, and predictable walk would be best. I am grateful that Shadow and Wilma are great walkers and I could still take them out with shooting back pain. So off we went on our Adventure….

I located the Minuteman Bikeway on route to a different location, and thought it would be a good path to explore. We walked and walked, of course taking some time to sniff all the new smells. We were careful to stay on the right side as we walked, bicycles often flying by dangerously. There were runners, dog walkers, and families out enjoying this gorgeous New Years day. The pathway ran adjacent to the Center of Lexington, at one point opening up so we could see Buckman Tavern, a scenic historic building. The pathway passed behind backyards, at some time closer then others. The bikeway was simple and unappealing, but obviously built as a commuter route for bicyclists, therefore quite a convenient for those traveling by bike. So although the Minuteman Bikeway is nothing exciting for those on a walk, still a great place to get some exercise. Hope everyone had a wonderful New Years (Rating: The Minuteman Bikeway will not be rated as it is a location created for bicycle commuters)

August 13, 2019 – Lexington – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Lexington, Massachusetts. Lexington is an affluent town famous for its history. It was there that the first shot of the Revolutionary War was fired. The Center of Town includes: shops, businesses, restaurants and numerous historic buildings and landmarks.

We had a historic Adventure to Lexington. I had planned a daytrip but due to the predicted storms we decided to have a local day. I was quite disappointed but pleased to find a great alternative.

We spent about two hours exploring Lexington. The day began spontaneously but I was soon pleased to locate a detailed map online, ensuring we visited all major landmarks. Our stops included the Buckman Tavern, The Belfry, Ye Old Burying Ground, The Minuteman Statue and much more. We strolled along the cablestone sidewalks, trotted down the ACROSS trail, rested in the lawn, and appreciated the rich history.

My favorite parts of our Adventure included: the architecture of the historic buildings, following the map to find the next stop on our Adventure, connecting with those around us, and watching Shadow and Wilma appreciate the moments. In regards to landmarks I was awed by the Burying Ground, and loved the scenic Minuteman Statue. Both Shadow and Wilma enjoyed numerous grassy rolls, a joyous celebration on yet another fantabulous Adventure! Lexington is definitely a special place to explore, especially for those history buffs (Rating: 4)