Throwback Adventure – Mystic Seaport Museum – Connecticut

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 April 2015 Shadow, Buster, My brother, My sister-in-law, and my niece Adventured to the Mystic Seaport in Mystic Connecticut, also referred to as The Museum of America and the Sea. The Museum is located on almost twenty acres of land and is the largest maritime museum in the United States. It includes: a redeveloped 19th-century coastal village, formal exhibit halls, artifact storage facilities, and an active shipyard.

We had a unique Adventure to the Mystic Seaport on a dark April day. It was quite the unusual experience bringing Shadow and Wilma into the main building to purchase tickets. We then entered into the outdoors to explore the Museum. There were boats, benches to sit, and scenic posts to pose. We of course did not venture into any museum building but were able to enjoy the outdoor spots, and partake in some exercise, and family fun. As you may know I am not a huge history buff but I appreciated site seeing and taking in a new experience. It was a fun time at Mystic Seaport.

May 13, 2019 – Farandnear Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Farandnear Reservation in Shirley, Massachusetts. The Farandnear was the former estate of Arthur Banks who was a well known professor and political scientist. It includes 2.7 miles of trails, and an Arboreteum. The Park is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a bird-singing Adventure to Farandear Reservation on a very cool spring day. I was excited to explore a new local spot. Upon arrival, and throughout our visit I could not have been more impressed. We began in the Arboretum, however, decided to explore the trails first before finishing up with the flowers. There were maps available, and the trails were clearly marked, even full photo maps along the trails. We were greeted by the proud landscaper/property manager who gave us some fun tidbits about the reservation, and was very friendly. The property was absolutely perfect from start to finish! There was a singing ravine, adorable boardwalk bridges, meadows, paths through the reservoir, and bogs. It was another spectacular Trustees of Reservation property, where around every corner a new landscape appeared. We enjoyed the lovely wildflowers, and lots of green framing the trails. We even saw beaver dams, a heron flying by, and of course soaked in the continual songs of birds. There was not a sole around and the reservation was so peaceful, and therapeutic, awing at all of nature’s creation.

After exploring the trails for some time we headed over to the Arboretum. There were bright color flowers, fun trees, lots of tulips, benches to relax, and landscape features along the way. There was even a spot for learning, and inspiring those little minds you may have in tow. We sat in the Arboretum and relaxed savoring the smells, sights, and fresh air. We did not want to leave but our Adventure eventually came to our end.

If you may be wondering, I located The Farandnear through the Trustees of Reservations. I would encourage you to check out the Trustees of Reservations, as you can search for properties in your area. Many of the land, trails, and properties are absolutely lovely, and the Trustees of Reservations does wonderful work to preserve the land and history throughout Massachusetts. I was quite fond of The Farandnear Reservation and will definitely be back (Rating: 4).

Throwback Adventure – Stone Mountain – Georgia

In July 2008 Shadow, a friend of ours, and I Adventured to Stone Mountain, Georgia where we visited Stone Mountain, located in Stone Mountain Park. Stone Mountain is known for the Confederate Memorial carving etched in the mountain side that includes generals Stonewall Jackson, Robert E. Lee, and former President Jefferson Davis. This sculpture is considered the largest high relief sculpture in the world.

We had a historic Adventure to Stone Mountain on our road trip from Florida to Massachusetts. It was unbelievable seeing such a gigantic rock with a sculpture etched on the side. I actually debated posting this Throwback today as I could only locate this one photograph, however, maybe it was the only one that I had of this Adventure. Puppy Shadow appeared a bit camera shy, but he definitely enjoyed exploring the area.

It is difficult sometimes learning about history but yet it gives us a chance to talk about things and make our world a better place. Yet I still ponder, could this Memorial be replaced with a new Memorial celebrating our nations diversity?! Either way I am glad our country has come so far from this sad place in history.

Stone Mountain

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!)

May 4, 2019 – Ravenswood Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Ravenswood Park in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Ravenswood Park is a 600 acre nature reserve made up of over 10 miles of trails. It is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations.

We had a dreary, yet inspiring Adventure to Ravenswood Park on another rainy morning. Expecting to have the place almost to ourselves, it was a surprise to arrive with not one parking space available. Luckily we soon found a guest leaving so we were able to park and begin on our journey, quickly grabbing a map as we entered the reserve. I was disappointed to have to weave through some out of control dogs before we began exploring. However the moment we arrived on our first trail we felt at peace in the great outdoors.

We began our hike on the Magnolia Swamp Trail, then traversed some small trails in between before finishing on the Ledge Hill Trail. The Trails were clearly labeled, a common and helpful perk of the Trustees properties. It was thrilling to see the bright green of spring, even feeling joy from seeing weeds, moss, and “normal” leaves. There were boardwalks surrounded by Fiddlehead Ferns and beautiful Canadian May flowers. Throughout the Park we observed boulders off all sizes, one even appearing to have green hair, causing me to chuckle. As you may guess my favorite aspect of the Park were the long boardwalks throughout the swamp area. One unusual feature we also located was a mini quarry along the trail. There was even a spot with a view of Gloucester Harbor from afar. It was as if the more you walked the more diverse the experience became.

Yet another dreary, walk in Massachusetts, but still a wonderful hike in Ravenswood Park. If you may be wondering, I located Ravenswood Park through the Trustees of Reservations. I would encourage you to check out the Trustees of Reservations, as you can search for properties in your area. Many of the land, trails, and properties are absolutely lovely, and the Trustees of Reservations does wonderful work to preserve the land and history throughout Massachusetts.So glad we could visit Ravenswood Park today (Rating: 3.5).

Throwback Adventure – Highfield Hall and Gardens – Massachusetts

In April 2017 Shadow, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Highfield Hall and Gardens in Falmouth, Massachusetts. We had a nice visit to the Highfield Hall and Gardens, a stop on our way to our final destination. As many of you know my detailed memories of Throwback Adventures are not quite as thorough as one might hope. However, I remember going for a walk in the Beebe Woods with Shadow while Mom explored the indoor exhibits. We walked for a bit and found a pond for some swims. We wandered around the property, and I took some adorable Shadow photographs along the way. I especially loved the Sunken Gardens, bushes shaped in picturesque style. I always enjoy finding Adventures that include culture and dogs. Although Shadow was not allowed in the mansion, there were many opportunities to explore. It appears I only took a few photographs, but a brief summary of our stop at the Highland Hall and Gardens. So glad we could visit this unique location.

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.

So today’s feature is a scenic photograph from a summer weekend in the White Mountains. Shadow, Wilma, and I had the amazing opportunity to work at an Inn on weekends last summer. We explored, explored, explored! This photograph was taken in an area near the AMC Highland Center in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire. The flowers were gorgeous and the background scenic. One of my favorite spots in New England is the White Mountains, and this photo captures one of our many special memories.

Other short hikes I have blogged about that started at the AMC Higland Center include: the Ammonoosuc Lake Trail and the Red Bench Trail, Beecher and Pearl Cascades, and the Lake Saco Trail. These are especially great hikes if you are new to hiking or hike alone. You can search for these blogs by typing the name in on my “search box”. On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog. You might see it in the midst of some outside advertisements. The AMC is a great resource and has NUMEROUS other hikes that you can explore.

Enjoy the flowers!

White Mountains Shadow and Wilma July 2018

April 28, 2019 – Cadillac Mountain – Maine

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park in Maine. Cadillac Mountain is at an elevation of 1530 feet, making it the highest point along the North Atlantic Seaboard.

We had a stunning Adventure to Cadillac Mountain, enjoying the scenery in the morning, and later heading back for the sunset. This was the second day we had journeyed to Cadillac Mountain as we had previously visited back in August 2015 with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom. I decided to blog again about this spectacular location as the first visit, although quite magical and misty, left us absolutely no view. This time the view was clear as can be, and absolutely breathtaking. We walked along the path, focusing on the unique landscape, and the glorious views. The path lead around, providing a perspective from many angles. At one point the path lead off toward a trail so we followed this trail away from the other guests, and at peace with the world. We found a place to sit and relish the flawless scenery. Although I was happy with many of my photographs, I really cannot describe this location in words. I do not remember ever seeing a more amazing view, and continually found myself commenting about this spot as we strolled around. I think the highlight of our weekend in Maine was Cadillac Mountain.

So we decided later to head back to Cadillac Mountain for the sunset. I had been told, and read that it was the best place to see the sunrise and sunset, so why not end the day at this sensational Mountain location. We spent about an hour at Cadillac Mountain observing this lovely sunset. We hopped around before finding the ideal rocks away from most other guests, and of course with the perfect view. I do not remember the last time I watched a sunset, nor the last time I saw something so picturesque. The sun changed from color to color before officially setting. One of the most beautiful sites I have ever seen with my two furry friends by my side. It was the perfect ending to a wonderful day in Mount Desert Island. I highly recommend you visit Cadillac Mountain, and below you can see too many photographs and videos of these memorable visits (Rating: 5).

(You can read my initial blog on Cadillac Mountain by typing “Cadillac Mountain” in the “search box”. On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog. You might see it in the midst of some outside advertisements.)

April 28, 2019 – Schooner Head Overlook – Maine

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Schooner Neck Point in Mount Desert Island Maine. Schooner Neck Point is not technically part of Acadia National Park. It provides views to the East and of the Frenchman Bay.

We had a peaceful Adventure to Schooner Neck on a sunny afternoon. I was exhilarated to arrive at the parking lot and find no cars, maybe a hidden spot?? We got out of the car and immediately saw a lovely water view from afar, a trail to our right. Unknown as to where the trail would lead we sauntered along the path weaving down and around in and in and out of the trees. It did not take us long to arrive at a spectacular view from the rocks. The beautiful color of the sea, rocks, and crashing waves at yet another wonderful oasis. We checked out the view and walked for a bit finding a quiet spot in the grass to relax. Shadow took a true nap while Wilma chewed on anything she could find. It was so nice to find ourselves alone in nature, with a grassy spot to sit, isolated from the world. Just what we needed as we took some time to treasure our amazing day in Mount Desert Island (Rating: 3).

April 28, 2019 – Jordan Pond – Maine

Yesterday we Adventured to Jordan Pond located in the Acadia National Park in Maine. Jordan Pond was formed by the Wisconsin Ice Sheet during the last glacial period. It has mountains to the west and northeast. The loop trail around the pond is less than four miles long, and is mostly flat. Jordan Pond is also known for the Jordan Pond House Restaurant that is open in-season, and includes outdoor seating on the lawn.

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Jordan Pond. This was our second Adventure to Jordan Pond as we had been there previously with Shadow, Buster, and My Mom. I debated on this blog as I usually do not post twice on a place I have blogged about previously. However, my previous Adventure was one of the most amazing ones we have experienced, and definitely rated 5! So I thought in this case I would add a short little blog and share some photographs from yesterday.

We had a shorter visit to Jordan Pond yesterday, as we did not traverse the GORGEOUS trail around the Pond. We enjoyed strolling around the trails, and the appreciating the beauty of the Pond in complete silence. It was fun to see Jordan pond empty from visitors, and in a different time of year. The early spring season has created brown grass, which added some unique color to the landscape. The Pond is spectacular framed with the Bubble Mountains, so round and perfect. My dark cell phone photographs do not even almost give this area the credit it deserves, but still wanted to share a magnificent spot to visit in Acadia National Park. Definitely a must see stop (Rating: 5).

(You can read my initial blog on Jordan Pond by typing “Jordan Pond” in the “search box”. On a mobile phone you can find this at the very bottom of the page, and on the computer you can find it to the right of the blog. You might see it in the midst of some outside advertisements.)