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).

June 30, 2019 – Vandenberg Esplanade – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Vandenberg Esplanade in Lowell, Massachusetts. The Vandenberg Esplanade is a paved trail along the Merrimack River that is approximately one mile in length. I believe it may be part of the Lowell Heritage State Park.

We had a nice Adventure to the Vandenbert Esplanade. If you ready my last blog you are already aware that my weekend started out quite frustrating with car issues cancelling our weekend Adventures. However, we visited the Heritage Ice Cream and Restaurant, a somewhat local spot, and accidentally discovered the Vandenberg Esplanade across the street. Although a simple, urban park I was thrilled to find an area to explore, knowing my car was in rough shape.

I decided to drive to the parking lot, versus crossing the very busy Pawtucket Road. It took some time to find a spot where u-turns were permitted, but once we did we quickly located the parking lot. We strolled along the paved path, Shadow and Wilma enjoying the city smells, and exploring a new site. The River view was scenic, benches aligning the path, and bright green trees throughout. There was a storm heading in from afar, making for quite the picturesque sky, and even a brilliant lightning strike across the River. There were many people walking, some socializing on benches, and of course some dog walkers. Two visitors asked me some questions about Shadow and Wilma, commenting about Wilma: “she is still stubborn isn’t she”? which actually brought a smile to my face as I often think that to myself. Although she did not do anything in particular to bring on the comment, I still found it humorous. We are continuing to work on training, but there is no doubt that she is our PAWFECT pup! Admittedly I often get compliments on how well my dogs are behaved! 100% PAWFECT pups!

Although it was not too hot on our Adventure today, Shadow appeared a bit warm so we only walked for about thirty minutes or so, attempting to keep at a continual and steady pace. Shadow attempted several times to head down the stairs into the water, but there was alot of trash in the River, so I decided otherwise. Poor guy! (PS – Don’t worry he got a neighborhood swim in this morning 🙂 ) We had a pleasant walk along at the Vandenberg Esplanade, a nice surprise find (Rating: 3)

April 27, 2019 – Viles Arboretum – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Viles Arboretum in Augusta, Maine. Viles Arboretum is made up of 224 acres of property including six miles of trails, gardens, an art/sculpture trail, and many special events and activities. There is a Visitor Center and a gift shop which are open during week days.

We had a drenching Adventure to the Viles Arboretum on yet another dreary New England day. I was excited to find the Arboretum, a location that many times is not open to my furry friends. Upon arrival we were disappointed to find the trail maps were gone, so decided to stroll around and see what we could find. There were numerous sculptures that captured our attention and guided us on our walk. We ambled along the paths, sinking into thick water and mud. However, we did not let this stop us and continued on checking out the art and landscape along the way. There were vibrant signs identifying what soon will be lots of green and flowering areas. There were gorgeous birch trees, tulips, forsythias, and a large white flowering tree. There were many labels for trails, yet without a map it was not clear as where they may lead. The Arboretum appeared to be endless with trails in many directions. We spent about an hour walking, and exploring. I am positive that the Viles Arboretum will be quite breathtaking as the buds bloom. It was definitely a unique spot which we hope to explore again in the future (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Stanley Park – August 2016

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.

In August 2016 Shadow, Buster, and I visited Stanley Park in Westfield, Massachusetts. Sadly Buster has passed away since, but he definitely enjoyed his share of adventures. He was an amazing boy, and will always be missed. Stanley Park is a non-profit, privately owned park, that is approximately 300 acres in size. It includes: gardens, trails, playing fields, and a duck pond. The park was established in 1945 by philanthropist Frank Stanley Beveridge.

We stopped at Stanley Park after a wonderful visit with family. The park was beautifully landscaped, and highlights of our visit, included: a variety of bridges, an old working mill, the duck-filled pond, an old rustic church, and even a live swan! We enjoyed walking along the trails, and photographing the gorgeous scenery. This was as stop that I planned, but did not do any detailed research, so we wandered around without a map. However, I do think we found some of the highlights of this magnificent park (Rating: 4).