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 Wilma at Halibut State Park. Halibut State Park is a gorgeous coastal park located in Rockport, Massachusetts. It includes: trails, a lighthouse, a quarry, and rocky coastal views. We have been to this location many times, and have greatly enjoyed these Adventures. If you would like to read/see more about Halibut State Park you can search for it in the search box (located on the right on your computer, or the bottom on a cell phone.)

Love this scenic photo of my adorable, curious girl. Enjoy!

Halibut point Septe 2017

January 6, 2019 – New Bedford – 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 January 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to New Bedford, Massachusetts. New Bedford is a city located in Southern Massachusetts. It is one of the bigger cities in the state. It if often referred to as “The Whaling City” as in the 19th Century it was one of the most important whaling ports in the world.

We had a foggy Adventure to New Bedford, Massachusetts. We visited many locations in New Bedford, including: Fort Taber, The New Bedford Covewalk, Palmer Lighthouse, the waterfront, and viewed the Butler Flats Lighthouse from afar. We walked, explored, and took photographs along the way. It was fun to visit a new town and to find continual places to check-out. We spent the entire day there, eventually being forced to leave at dusk. Definitely an interesting city to explore.

PS – I recently blogged specifically about Palmer Lighthouse so if you are interested in reading more on that spectacular Adventure please search for Palmer Lighthouse in the search box (to the right on your computer and on the bottom on your phone).

Throwback Adventure – Town Neck Beach – Massachusetts

In April of 2014 Shadow, Buster, My Mom, and I Adventured to Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts. Town Neck Beach is reached by a long, wooden boardwalk over a marshy-like area. The Beach provides views of the Cape Cod canal. As most of you are aware, Sandwich is part of Cape Cod.

We had a beautiful Adventure to the Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts. I clearly remember being absolutely awed at the beauty of the boardwalk, with the clear water below, and scenic marsh views. It was a very windy day, which added some Adventure to our stroll down the narrow boardwalk. The boardwalk was quiet, which was appreciated as my two large dogs took up most of the diameter. I greatly enjoyed this unusual pathway to the Beach.

Upon arrival at the end of the boardwalk we were high above the beach, providing lovely views. We made our way down the stairs and enjoyed our time at the shore walking, digging, posing, and relaxing. We were able to find someone to take photos of all four of us. This is something I remember vividly as Shadow and Buster were attempting to wrestle each other during several of the photographs making me chuckle. (One of the photos below you can see the beginning of their shenanigans). It was really a wonderful day, and a location I will always remember. I definitely hope to be back at the Town Neck Beach in the future (Rating: Throwback Adventures will not always be rated.)

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 9, 2019 -Bowers Springs – Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow and I Adventured to Bowers Springs in Bolton, Massachusetts. This is the second time we have been there as Shadow, Wilma and I had been previously. Bowers Springs is conservation land that includes a pond, trails, and grassy fields. It is a popular destination for dog walking, and fishing.

We had a water-filled Adventure to Bowers Springs. I decided to bring Shadow on a solo Adventure today knowing he would love a swimming Adventure and thinking there might be many uncontrolled dogs romping about. And although Wilma probably would be fine off leash I still feel there is some on leash work to do before crossing into that world. So I had a bit of a guilty conscious today but working two days a week, and knowing it is a good thing to for Wilma to have moments without her big brother (as she really does rely on him)…. we carried on…

Upon arrival at Bowers Springs I was surprised to find a full parking lot. I parked in a nice shady parking spot and we headed off on our Adventure. There immediately were loud, enthusiastic voices, which I later learned were likely summer campers. We ambled down the shady trail, lined by trees., and surrounded by fields. As soon as Shadow saw a glimpse of water he he began trotting, soon swimming, sipping, and refreshed. Throughout our Visit I let Shadow lead the way and often just stood and watched as he swam. The trail looped around the pond which was filled with lilies, fish, frogs, and I even spotted a snake (yuck!) It was tranquil, and although a warm day, the shade made it pleasant.

About three quarters around the pond we joined a large group of dogs at the beach area. Shadow was very excited to make some new friends, and of course to get some treats from some generous owners. It was adorable seeing him so happy to socialize with some furry friends . He was so excited he almost forgot about swimming, but eventually did wander back. I chatted with the other dog parents for a bit, and smiled as I watched Shadow enjoy the moment. We stayed for a bit before one dog was getting to be a little too excited so we decided to continue on our walk. Shadow continually found places to go into the water and swim. It was great to be able to let him swim wherever and whenever he wanted. I sat down for a bit in one location, sneaking a peak at Wilma napping on my home cameras. Such a nice little private Adventure for Shadow, and although we missed our Wilma Mae, we think it was the best afternoon plan for all. If you are a dog lover in the area, I would highly recommend you visit this quiet location (Rating: 3.5)

PS – I unfortunately could not locate any photos from our first visit, although I am wondering if I may not have taken any?? If they do appear I may share another time.

As you can see by this spy cam photo below (little girl on the left in the corner)…Wilma was quite alright! 🙂 I apologize that I did not fix up the couch blankets and straighten the rug before sharing!

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July 8, 2019 – Joppa Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Joppa Park in Newburyport, Massachusetts. Joppa Park is a small harborside Park on Water Street. It has been in the process of being renovated and upgraded for years. It is rich in history being a previous locations for clamming and fishing operations.

We had a scenic Adventure to Joppa Park. I found this charming, floral “Park” accidentally as we were driving to our planned destination. I could not resist stopping to explore this lovely location. We were lucky to find a parking spot as there were only a few available. We started at what I believe was a boat launch although definitely low tide. We waded into the mud, literally almost loosing my shoes. The view was spectacular with vivid colors from the water, to the grass, to the nearby flowers. Boats were scattered through out the harbor creating a magical coastal scene.

From the boat launch we walked through the “Park” to the end and back. There were many other visitors walking through the area. Wilma immediately jumped up onto the sea wall, amazingly agile. I found this little moment adorable, as did some others who commented on her athleticism. Shadow ambled along a bit less enthused, thinking about his next swim, I am sure. Our walk was short, but beautiful. I made sure to get a close-up view at all the flowers, and appreciated all the colors. It is amazing that not too long ago we were in winter, everything white, brown, and dried up. Our Adventures today reminded me how New England seasons are absolutely amazing! So not a “Park” that I would travel far too, merely due to the small size, a however spectacular Harborwalk to stroll along if you are in the area (Rating: 4).

July 8, 2019 – Plum Island Lighthouse/Newburyport Harbor Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Plum Island Lighthouse in Newburyport, Massachusetts. This Lighthouse is also referred to as the Newburyport Harbor Lighthouse. This Lighthouse was established in 1788, but later rebuilt in 1898. The tower is made out of wood, and is approximately 35 feet in height. The Lighthouse is now owned by the City of Newburyport, and managed by the Friends of Plum Island Light. It is open for scheduled tours.

We had a coastal Adventure to the Plum Island Lighthouse. We began our morning with a long walk at one of our favorite local parks before heading to the Lighthouse. As we got closer the drive became very scenic with bright blue water, framed by brilliant green grass. It was absolutely gorgeous, and beautifully completed by a perfectly blue sky. We drove to the end of Northern Boulevard and located the Lighthouse on the left. Parking was a bit unclear, but I had emailed to get additional information, and it appeared to match the parking description. After parking we meandered over to the Lighthouse. It was tall, and a crisp white color. The location was simple, the lawn somewhat overgrown, but the Lighthouse structure was flawless in form. We spent some time walking around the area and Shadow and Wilma enjoyed a nap under the shady bushes, and their expected happy, enthusiastic rolls. Although I knew ahead of time the beaches were not dog friendly, I was still a bit disappointed. However, so glad we were able to visit the Plum Island Lighthouse. We will have to return in the off-season when we can romp on the beach as well. A beautiful sunny day exploring the Plum Island Lighthouse (Rating: 3).

September 13, 2018 – Stage Fort Park – Massachusetts

Yesterday, Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Stage Fort Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. In July 2015 Shadow, Buster, and I also visited Stage Fort Park. These types of Adventures are my favorite, the Adventure where all three of my best friends had the opportunity to explore the same location! Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed.

Stage Fort Park is a historic park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. It was in 1623 that Gloucester’s first settlers set up fishing “staging” on this land. The area was fortified until the Spanish-American War. The Park includes: a gazebo, several beaches, recreational facilities, a privately owned restaurant (open seasonally), and gorgeous coastal views.

We had a lovely Adventure to Fort Stage Park. I was humored viewing photographs from our Adventure three years ago noting the similarities in both the weather, and our “hot spots”. Highlights of both Adventures included: relaxing on the beach, digging in the sand, and enjoying the spectacular coastal views. I also found myself drawn to the gigantic rock, and the unique cement stairs along the paths. We walked around the park savoring the spectacular coastal views, climbing on the boulders, and checking out the canons, and Fort area.

After exploring for a bit we headed to the beach. Wilma dipped into the water, deeper then most days, although soon becoming spooked by the waves. However, Shadow showed no fear, enjoying sitting, and dipping in to the ocean water. The beach was inspiring, and relaxing, always a peaceful oasis. On our first journey we watched the scuba divers, while on yesterday’s Adventure there was a low flying helicopter exercise on display. The park overall was simple, but had spectacular rocky coastal scenery, and some unique features that we thoroughly enjoyed (Rating: 3).

September 13, 2018