May 22, 2021 – Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park – Vermont

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park in Woodstock, Vermont. This National Park was named for George Perkins Marsh, and Frederick Billings. George Perkins Marsh was one of the nation’s first global thinkers, while Frederick Billings, was an early conservationist. The park includes: trails, horseback carriage rides, a victorian mansion, and a museum. It is also a popular location for cross-country skiing in the winter.

We had a flower-filled Adventure to Marsh-Billings Rockefeller National Park. We have been to the Park numerous times, but have not blogged about it except for locating old photographs for our Throwback Adventure, so today was the day to share. I was excited to visit this Park, especially to explore the gardens in the spring season. I was looking forward to endless hiking however Wilma appeared quite warm from the heat so spent alot of time lounging in the perfect grass, and only enjoyed the trail system for a short time. The gardens were beautiful, the buildings lovely, and the trails quite energizing. I have always enjoyed Marsh-Billings Rockefeller National Park and look forward to our next Adventure to this beautiful location (Rating: 4).

January 9, 2020 – Scituate, Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Scituate, Massachusetts. Scituate is a coastal town in Southern Massachusetts. It is a small town known for the beaches, history, restaurants, shops, and the fishing community.

We had a walking-filled Adventure to Scituate on a beautiful winter day. Although we have been to many of the locations we visited today, I have only blogged about the Scituate Lighthouse, so decided to do a blog about the town. Today we explored: Scituate Harbor, the Harborwalk, the shopping district, Lawson Tower, Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, and the Scituate Lighthouse. We walked and walked, and enjoyed the spectacular sun on this winter day.

The most beautiful stop in Scituate today was definitely the Scituate Lighthouse. It is one of the most gorgeous Lighthouses in New England with several breakwaters, and rocky beaches surrounding. One of the special features about the Scituate Lighthouse is you can get up-close to view this spectacular structure. While at the Lighthouse Wilma especially loved exploring the beach, covered with rounded beautifully colored rocks, and hoping along the breakwater rocks. We have been to the Scituate Lighthouse numerous times, and it never disappoints.

We also stopped at Lawson Tower, which we had not been to before. This was a grandly tall structure, surrounded by gating, but yet a unique and unusual Tower. I initially was planning on just blogging about this Tower but decided to share the summary of our time in Scituate due to our numerous other stops, and time spent exploring.

Throughout the day Wilma enjoyed charming those around us, rolling in the grass, walking, and exploring the coastal smells. I was planning on a half day trip today but between Scituate and our previous stop we walked the day away! So glad we could visit Scituate today (Rating: 4)

November 27, 2020 – Rockport, Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Rockport, Massachusetts. Rockport is an oceanside town in Northern Massachusetts. It is known for the beaches, art community, restaurants, shopping, and Motif #1, one of the most painted buildings in the country.

We had an ocean-filled Adventure to Rockport. Today our stops included: Motif #1, downtown Rockport, Bear Skin Neck, Old First Parish Burying Ground, the Breakwater, Halibut Point State Park, and Front Beach. Out Adventure started on a sunny morning, although it soon became dark and cloudy. Although we have been to almost all of these locations before we really enjoyed walking, exploring, and endless photos. I loved all the little aspects of the town, including the holiday decorations, the colorful buoys and lobster traps, and of course the gorgeous scenery. I especially loved hearing the crashing waves at Halibut Point State Park. Wilma especially enjoyed inhaling the smells of the lobster traps, watching the birds, and hoping along the Breakwater. Wilma seemed a little tired today, which is hopefully it is just me over analyzing. However she still appeared to enjoy the day, just appeared extra calm. So glad we could have an outing to Rockport today Rating: 4).

July 15, 2020 – Deer Island – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to Deer Island in Boston, Massachusetts. Deer Island is a Peninsula in Boston that is part of the Boston Harbor Islands. You can drive to the Island after crossing the town of Winthrop. The Island has a long history, including: serving as a prison camp for Native Americans during King Philip’s War, and a home to immigrants and refuges during the Irish Potato famine. The Island has five miles of trails including an almost three mile loop. It currently is the location for the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, which both treats and recycles waste. The Island is popular for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing.

We had a misty Adventure to Deer Island. We arrived at about 8am and I was quite thrilled to find a parking spot as the Island reviews indicated they are often limited. We began our walk around the main loop an almost three mile paved path. It was sprinkling, and somewhat misty as we began. I was surprised to find myself quite impressed with the beauty of the “trail”. There were many colorful wildflowers, and the waves were quite grand, loud and raging. Wilma often preferred to walk along the stone/cement wall, my rock loving girl. There were parts of the path where the waves actually crashed so high they spurted water over us and the path. I found this little natural feature so fun, although Wilma was not a huge fan of these unexpected showers.

I would guess we were about halfway around the Island when we found a little beach, centered by a breakwater, featuring purple tinted rocks. We normally would have wandered down the breakwater but there was a fisherman at the end so we decided to give him his space and explore the beach. I was disappointed to find a lot of litter on the shore, but sadly to be expected on a city beach. However we did our best to ignore this and appreciate the sand, shells, seaweed, lobster traps, and the water. Wilma loved sniffing around, and digging and running chaotically. She sometimes waded into the water, but dramatically bounded back when any type of wave appeared. A fun little diversion from the “trail”.

We then continued on the path along Boston Harbor. We soon found a spectacular view of Boston, so impressive. As we walked further the sky began to slightly clear, with dashes of blue between the clouds. I could not get enough of this view, and guess it must be one of the best skyline view of Boston. I took numerous photos of this scene, and dreamed about the zoom lens I wish I owned. Definitely one of my favorite parts of this walk as I love seeing the Boston skyline.

Throughout our walk the “trail” varied from a small path to opening up, to providing opportunities to walk on the rocks, to scenic vistas – paths off the trail. There were benches along the way to sit, relax, and enjoy the ocean views. An interesting aspect to Deer Island was the Treatment Plant which added various structures parallel to the “trail”. There was only one small part of the path where I noticed an odor, but thankfully that was a short part of our journey. We were able to view kiosks throughout to learn more about the location and history. Near the end of our walk we found several memorials, including the Irish Memorial, and the Judge A. David Mazzone Memorial.

I was very happy to be surprisingly impressed with Deer Island. The large waves made my mind think of movies where there is an ocean storm – just something I cannot describe in words but the sounds and the scene were majestic. The colorful wildflowers, combined with the unique structures of the Plant made for a distinctive experience. I loved the path too, quite pristine and quiet, I guess a perk of minimal parking. Although several things made me debate the rating I overall was very pleased with Deer Island, and look forward to returning in the future (Rating: 4).

May 9, 2020 – Fitzgerald Road/Blackwell Brook Covered Bridge – Connecticut

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to the Blackwell Brook/Fitzgerald Covered Bridge in Brooklyn, Connecticut. This covered bridge was just built in 2010 repairing the original bridge which was was constructed in 1986. The Bridge crosses the Blackwell Brook, and is said to be the only one in Northeastern Connecticut.

We had a scenic Adventure to the Fitgerald Road/Blackwell Brook Covered Bridge. We found the Bridge in a gorgeous residential area, the Brook rushing below. The Bridge was in a quiet location, providing the ability to walk under and check out the views from the windows. We did see numerous trespassing signs so were not able to take a photograph from the Brook. However we enjoyed the peaceful oasis and snapped some photographs from the ends, and under the Bridge. So glad we could visit the Fitzgerald Road/Blackwell Brook Covered Bridge today (Rating: 4).

December 26, 2019 – Long Sand Beach – Maine

Yesterday Shadow and I took an Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. Long Sand Beach is a less then two mile sandy shoreline that includes some rocky areas and tidal pools. The beach is located along Route 1A. It is a popular tourist spot in the summer months.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Long Sand Beach in York, Maine. I decided to take a solo Adventure with Shadow. Wilma sometime struggles with off-leash locations as she does not appreciate being charged by off-leash dogs, while on leash. I often am disappointed to find that the majority of the off-leash dogs we encounter are not under voice control, and as you might guess this can be unpredictable. And although I might be an overprotective dog Mom, I do not feel Wilma is quite ready to be off-leash, still young and quite driven by her adorable hound nose. So…having some extra days off I felt this would be a good opportunity to take Shadow on a journey of his own, my beach-loving, extra-well behaved boy. Although feeling a bit guilty I decided to head off to Long Sand Beach with Shadow.

We arrived at Long Sand Beach finding it just below the main road. There were other visitors scattered throughout the beach, many dogs in tow. Shadow was absolutely thrilled to be at the beach. We headed straight to the water and began walking along the shore, appreciating the sun, and the sounds of the surf. I spotted Nubble Lighthouse off in the distance, although a bit too far off to photograph with my cell phone. Shadow was excited to meet all dogs in sight, quickly making best buds with an adorable Vizsla. I often heard comments about how “big” Shadow was but fellow walkers quickly noted his calm and friendly demeanor. It was so fun to see him in this environment as we have not recently encountered new friends. Shadow enjoyed smelling, finding some lobster traps, shells, and numerous smells unknown to my eyes. Shadow loved wading in the water often trotting enthusiastically. It was clear that the tide was going out the beach growing quickly as we strolled along. It was a gorgeous afternoon filled with many smiles. And although the beach was simple, and somewhat unappealing the memories and moments were absolutely perfect. So glad we could enjoy a relaxing beach Adventure today (Rating: Beach: 3, Adventure: Priceless)

September 21, 2019 – Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Rose Nulman Park and the Point Judith Lighthouse in Narragansett, Rhode Island. The Rose Nulman Park is a public park with benches, and coastal views. It is a popular spot for surfers. Abutting the Park is the Point Judith Lighthouse, an active Lighthouse located on the Coast Guard grounds. The Point Judith Lighthouse was originally build in 1810, although has been reconstructed several time since.

We had a coastal Adventure to the Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse. Upon arrival I was quite disappointed that the Point Judith Lighthouse was surrounded by tall metal fencing, making it difficult to fully discern, and therefore photograph. I had known that it was on the Coast Guard grounds but failed to realize that it was inaccessible to the public. We attempted to wander as close as possible.

After finishing our attempts in viewing the Lighthouse we wandered over to Rose Nulman Park, an area that visually was popular for surfers, and motorcyclists. We immediately ventured to the edge of the park, high above a steep cliff to the shore. We noted that there were people relaxing in chairs along this border, many appreciating the show of the numerous surfers. We then headed down to the end of the Park, eager to find a path to the shore. Along the way we located some benches, and a memorial. After strolling through a small, open field we were quite thrilled to find a path to the shore. The shoreline was steep, and full of rocks, leading to challenging footing. Shadow was very hopeful to dive into the water, but quite disappointed to find the rocky shore. Luckily there was a large wave or two to help cool him down a bit, but swimming was unfortunately not an option. Wilma enjoyed perching on a large rock, viewing the sea. We attempted to sit for a bit, but the ground was not too cooperative so we soon ventured back up to the land above. There we found a flat spot in the grass to relax, and roll. The waves sang their crashing noises, and the coastal scene was quite gorgeous. Pleased to visit the Rose Nulman Park and Point Judith Lighthouse today (Rating: 3)

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).

Throwback Adventure – Jeff Smith Trail – Massachusetts

In December of 2014 Shadow, Buster, and I Adventured to the Jeff Smith Trail in Pepperell, Massachusetts. The Jeff Smith Trail is a conservation trail which runs through the “Blood Brook Ravine” land. There is parking for this Trail on Jewett Street and on Heald Street. The trail includes: a shoreline walk along the pond, follows a steep ridge above the pond, and weaves through the ravine that follows the Blood Brook. The total round trip hike is just under three miles.

We had an enjoyable adventure to the Jeff Smith Trail. I do not post many of our local conservation Adventures, however, sometimes feel inspired to share. On this particular walk I remember appreciating the unique landscape, the steep views of the lake, the ravine, and the Brook throughout our hike. We did not see a sole on the trail, and were swept away into the arms of nature. We found a beaver dam along the trail, and explored all the little spots we could find. I do not believe I ever researched this trail (until blogging) however spotted it on a drive through the area. A trail with water always catches my eye and am glad that we stopped for a hike on this brown, crisp, winter day. Not a fancy hike by all means, but yet a nice place to explore for the local followers and friends. Make sure you check out your local conservation land, you will often find a lovely spot (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

July 29, 2019 – Brookfield Floating Bridge – Vermont

I am a little behind on my blog from our daytrip to Vermont this past Monday. However, I still wanted to share, so here is another one of our Adventures.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Brookfield Floating Bridge in Brookfield, Vermont. The Brookfield Floating Bridge was originally built in 1820, but later was closed in 2008 and rebuilt in 2015. The Bridge is over the Sunset Lake. It is the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Brookfield Floating Bridge. Upon arrival we found some visitors, but yet not an overly crowded location. We drove across the bridge before turning around and find a parking spot near a little park. The colors were vibrant, dark green grass, and bright blue water, the scenic mountains the backdrop to the Lake. There was a humorous hippo statue in the park, along with benches to sit and relax. We quickly found a spot along the shore where Shadow could swim, and Wilma wade. I had planned ahead bringing Shadow’s longer leash just in case he wanted to venture far. I also was pleased to have brought my water shoes allowing me to walk in a bit and cool down. We chatted for a bit with other visitors, and watched the cheerful scene. Wilma was fascinated by the swimming children, and almost appeared distressed when a little girl was swimming under water. I guess some new experiences for our growing puppy, learning new lessons every day.

Before we headed out we took a walk down the Floating Bridge, a unique structure. There were sidewalks along the road, many fisherman along the way, and people jumping from the bridge’s edge. I expected for the bridge to feel bouncy, but it appeared quite sturdy. The Bridge was long, and wooden in style. The only time I remember seeing a structure of its style.

This modest spot, appeared quite popular for locals, who were kind, and social. So glad we could visit this unusual landmark today. Next time I definitely will wear my swimsuit (Rating: 3.5)