February 23, 2019 – Duxbury Beach – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed on three separate Adventures. Our last Adventure for today was to Duxbury Beach. Duxbury Beach is six miles long, and is considered a barrier beach.

We had a gorgeous Adventure to the Duxbury Beach. I was immediately impressed with the exquisite view of the shore, and the scenic Powder Point Bridge. The sun was glittering in the hazy sky, while the water was lovely in color. We drove around, a bit confused by the parking but eventually found a spot that seemed to be available for those non-resident visitors. Our journey started along the long Bridge. Both Shadow and Wilma spent some time peering out the frame as we trotted along this spectacular bridge. The water was glittering, and the beach flawless from afar. Just this walk added cheer to our steps as we were headed to the BEACH!

Upon arrival we peaked at the different signs and information, lots of directions to choose from. I was unclear about the rules for dogs, however saw numerous dogs enjoying the day. We headed along one road for a bit before scooting over to the beach. The beach was covered with flawlessly shaped rocks, vibrant in color and often round in shape. There were shells scattered throughout, colorful grass, and soft sand. We ventured into the water a bit, but since leashes were required it was not a full swim. Shadow was a bit disappointed, but soon savored some sandy rolls, while Wilma partook in some chaotic digging in the sand. A wonderful leisurely stroll quite satisfying for the spirit. We eventually headed back and journeyed across the Bridge. Definitely a place I hope to return in the future. A special find on our Adventures today (Rating: 4).

February 23, 2019 – Myles Standish Monument State Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed on three separate Adventures. Our second one was to the Myles Standish Monument State Reservation in Duxbury, Massachusetts. This Reservation is a state owned preserve which is highlighted by a monument of Myles Standish, a military leader of the Plymouth colony. The monument was completed in 1898, is 116 feet tall, is made of granite, and has a statue of statue of Myles Standish at the very top. The shaft is open in-season, providing stunning views of the local area.

We had a spectacular visit to the Myles Standish Monument State Reservation. I had read about the Myles Standish Monument State Reservation several times and finally decided to schedule a visit. The road to the Monument was closed so we parked near the gate, and wandered in. We followed the winding road, lined with beautiful trees as we slowly walked uphill. The voices of crows and seagulls combing to provide us some music along the way, as the sun streamed through the trees.

The Monument was a short walk from the gate. Upon arrival I could not believe how massive size of the monument, towering high above. We looped around before arriving arriving near the shaft, and then slowly weaved up the stairs. We ambled around the Monument capturing it from all angles. It was difficult to get a good view of the statue so high in the sky. This Reservation was a nice surprise as I did not expect such a magnificent sculpture. Shadow and Wilma played for a bit in the snow, appearing to be enthused themselves. We spent a bit of time at the Monument before heading on to our next Adventure. So glad we decided to stop at the Myles Standish Monument State Reservation (Rating: 4).

February 23, 2019 – Charles River Peninsula – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I journeyed on three separate Adventures. Our first one was to the Charles River Peninsula in Needham, Massachusetts. The Charles River Peninsula is a 30 acres nature preserve that is owned and managed by the Trustees of Reservations. It is a true peninsula, being surrounded by the Charles River. The Peninsula rises to become an open field. This land was previously used for farming.

We had a simple Adventure to the Charles River Peninsula, on a surprisingly warm winter day. We were exuberant to visit another one of the Trustee properties, our new favorite spots to explore. Our Adventure started bright and early on another grey winter day. We were pleased to almost have the reserve to ourselves, with only several other visitors here and there. We found the Peninsula to have somewhat of a city feel, with houses around many of the borders, and utility poles, however still quite serene.

I was relieved that I had glanced at the map before we left as the trails were not marked. The official entrance was announced by a small boardwalk where we began our hike around the loop. We were happy to see footprints on the route, guiding us to the trail. There was snow on much of the trail, and some patches of ice. The trail was not very interesting as it really was just one big circle around the field, with little changes in landscape. Although the preserve was a bit dull we ALWAYS make memories and find things we appreciate on our Adventures. At the Peninsula we especially enjoyed the loop near the water with River views, the numerous bird feeders scattered throughout the property, and the several large rocks for some Wilma jumps. I think sometimes my expectations are too high, however, I really can never complain about a walk with Shadow and Wilma, my PERFECT company.

I found the Charles River Peninsula through the Trustees of Reservations which I have been learning about more in the last month or so. 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 although the Charles River Peninsula did not peak my interest, we still ALWAYS enjoy our time in the great outdoors. We are glad we could visit today (Rating: 2).

Throwback Adventure – Crystal Cascade – New Hampshire

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 October of 2016 Shadow, Buster, My Mom and I Adventured to the Crystal Cascade in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Crystal Cascade is a gorgeous waterfall that has a 100 foot drop into the Ellis River. There is just a short walk to the Falls that begins at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. The Cascade is along one of the popular routes to Mount Washington.

We had a special Adventure to the Crystal Cascade on a beautiful Fall day. Buster had recently been diagnosed with a terminal tumor, and we knew his time was limited. This made the memories even more marked as I recall this lovely Adventure. It was a short walk to the Crystal Cascade with a slight elevation gain. The trail was simple, but perfectly Fall in color. Upon arrival we found a steep, little trail to sneak close to the beautiful Falls. The Falls was singing loudly, and provided a full sensory experience. Buster enjoyed chewing some sticks while Shadow sat and posed for the camera. There were limited spots to view the waterfall, so we were glad to find this spot all to ourselves.

We spent some time at the Crystal Cascade before heading past the waterfall to a little bridge across the top. There were absolutely stunning Fall views from this spot with the musical waterfall below below. An absolutely magnificent scene that we thoroughly enjoyed. I was actually planning to visit again this past summer with Wilma and Shadow but the trails were closed due to flooding. However we do hope to visit again on another date. Please see below some photos and videos of our special day at Crystal Cascade. In one of the videos you will see a conversation between my Mom and Buster, as he was a talker, often known for his happy howl. Glad to create special memories on our Adventure to Crystal Cascade.

February 18, 2019 – Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 18, 2019 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in Portland, Maine. The Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is a working lighthouse located along a breakwater in the Casco Bay. It was built in 1897, while improvements and updates have been made since that time. It is open to the public for tours.

We had a chilly, yet spectacular Adventure to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). I was excited to find a lighthouse that I had not yet visited, and that also provided a close-up view. Being off-season we were lucky to have the entire site to ourselves. We began our Adventure cautiously as the paths were again ice covered, and quite slippery. There were benches along the water, the view of the Lighthouse off in the distance. We walked toward the breakwater, however my Mom soon decided to head back to the car to warm-up.

Upon starting on the breakwater I soon realized that Shadow was not feeling inspired by the rocks, and slight spaces between them. We headed back to the car and my Mom agreed to sit in the warm car with Shadow while myself and my rock-loving Wilma hustled back to the breakwater eager for our close-up view. Wilma was thrilled for some rock jumping. It was a bit frigid, although Wilma appeared to keep warm from her athletic jumps. Luckily the rocks were not icy, but had some scenic snow here and there, adding a picturesque scene for photographs. We carefully planned our jumps, some requiring steps, while others leaps as we hustled down the embankment.

It was thrilling to arrive at the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, a lovely structure. We did not spend much time at the end, as we knew Shadow and My Mom were waiting for our return. However, it was definitely worth this short visit.

I love an Adventure that is not simple, but yet requires some work to arrive at the final destination Definitely a wonderful Adventure – Thanks to Mom for allowing us to partake in this Adventure, while providing Shadow comfort and warmth (Rating: 5).

February 18, 2019 – Two Lights State Park – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 18, 2019 Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to the Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Two Lights State Park is a 41 acre Park that provides stunning coastal views of the Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike the name suggests there are no lighthouses directly in the Park, however the Park obtained its name from the nearby “twin” Lighthouses. Two Light State Park is well known for the spectacular rocky shores, and is popular for picnicking and strolls along the shoreline trails.

We have enjoyed three separate Adventures to the Two Lights State Park. Two Lights State Park has a special place in our hearts as it was the first stop my Mom and I made when we began our outdoor getaways with the dogs. Our first visit occurred with Buster and Shadow on a very rainy September day. However we still carried on, getting soaked along the way. We took our first selfie EVER, the beginning of a new tradition which would capture memories, and landmarks throughout our future journeys. On this visit I remember especially enjoying the shoreline trail, the rocky shores, beautiful flowers, and of course the overall experience and memories made.

On February 18, 2019 we had our third Adventure to Two Lights State Park on a super-cold day. We debated a visit due to the frigid weather but were eager to check out the location in the snow. It was lovely walking around in the snow, on as we viewed the coastal scenes. I slipped several times, but officially managed to stay on my feet. We especially enjoyed some snow covered steps along the trails, and the snow covered rocky shores. This was our second visit during the month of February with Shadow and Wilma, however the first in the snow. Definitely an appealing oceanfront Adventure to the Two Lights State Park (Rating: 4).

February 17, 2019 – Wiggly Bridge – Maine

I apologize as I am slightly behind with my blogging over the last couple days, but am slowly catching up!! On February 17, 2019 we Adventured to the Wiggly Bridge in York, Maine. The Wiggly Bridge is a suspended bridge, that as titled, wiggles” as you walk across. It was built in the 1930s and stretches over the tidal pool that flows from Barrell Mill Pond to the York River. It is known as the smallest suspension bridge in the world, just seventy five feet in length.

Shadow, Wilma, My Mom, and I had a fun Adventure to the Wiggly Bridge, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). This was at least the third time we have visited, although it was the first time for my Mom. Our stroll to the Bridge started on a short man-made causeway that leads you to this landmark. The sun was shining along the water, sparkling from the glare. The Bridge highlighted by green, adding the perfect feature to the coastal spot. We snapped some photographs, and played with the shadows below.

On this visit I decided not to venture across the Bridge with Shadow and Wilma as last time, we had a little problem. On that visit BOTH of them became very concerned about the “wiggles”, causing us to almost remain permanently on the other side of the Bridge. It is a humorous story that I have fond memories of, even though we caused quite a scene. The Wiggly Bridge is a wonderful landmark to visit, and although I initially found it by accident, I now know it is a famous Bridge, merely due to the small size. Definitely a great stop that we have enjoyed on several of our Adventures. I found a couple photos from our past trips which I have added to our collage below. I was disappointed not to have any photographs of Buster from our first visit, however treasure an Adventure where all three of my pups had an opportunity to visit (Rating: 4).

Weekly 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.

My photo feature today is from an Adventure I took with Shadow and Buster in October of 2014 to the Lincoln Woods Trail in the White Mountains. Lincoln Woods is one of my favorite trails which follows the rocky waters of the Pemigewassett River with gorgeous mountain views. We have been there numerous times, including on other trips with Wilma, and my Mom. This photograph below is one of my favorite photos of Buster and Shadow, both quite dashing, posing in an absolutely beautiful Fall location.

If you would like to read more about other visits to Lincoln Woods in the “search box” for more information on these Adventures. (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.)

February 17, 2019 – Fort McClary Historic Site – Maine

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I visited the Fort McClary Historic Site in Kittery, Maine. This is the second, or maybe third time we have been to this Fort. Fort McClary is located along the Piscataqua River. It was part of five significant wars, and is one of Maine’s most important historic Forts, serving as protection for more then 275 years.

We had a simple, but historic visit to the Fort McClary Historic Fort yesterday, one of our many stops on our two day Maine getaway. (most of which I’ve already blogged about but some new Adventures too). We had visited Fort McClary previously with Shadow and Buster in October 2014 so a bit chillier on this February winter day. The gates were closed, and the grounds icy so we cautiously approached the Fort. We ventured up to the Fort, and I ver to the water’s edge, stopping at various landmarks along the way. As you gaze across the River you can see the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse from a far. There were some historic write-ups along the way, while various buildings and locations were identified by titles. and dates. Shadow enjoyed some grassy rolls, while Wilma hopped from various cement blocks watching other visiting dogs from afar. Wilma often appeared to be interested in the history, peering into doors, and hoping onto windows, always creating a comical laugh on our Adventures.

While I sometimes wish I was more a history buff, I find myself more drawn to the structures, views, moments, and photography opportunities along the way. Although I found Fort McClary simple compared to many I have visited, it was quite rich in history. I was disappointed to not find any great photos of Buster from our first visit, but have mixed photographs from the two visits into one collage below (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Arethusa Falls – New Hampshire

In June 2017 Shadow and I had a breathtaking Adventure to Arethusa Falls in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Arethusa Falls, sometimes referred to as Tuckerman Falls, is sourced by the Bemis Brook. It is almost 200 feet in height and is one of the tallest waterfalls in New Hampshire. The trail to Arethusa Falls is approximately a three mils round-trip hike. Part of the Trail is paralleled by the Bemis Brook Trail while following the Bemis Brook, and leading you past the Bemis Brook Falls and Coliseum Falls. It is a popular area for hiking, and ice climbing in the winter months.

One of the most amazing Adventures I have ever taken was this hike I took with Shadow to Arethusa Falls. I remember the trail to the Falls was clearly labeled,filled with rocks, a bridge or two, and other hikers along the way. The main trail was not very inspiring, but the elevation gain was definitely a good work-out. I was super impressed with my rockstar Shadow, (nine at this time) as unlike me, he did not miss a beat!

Upon arrival at the Falls we were immediately drawn to the massive height at the Falls. It was thin in depth,and musical in sound, as misty water streamed over the rocks. We hoped from rock to rock finding a nice place to rest, enjoy the waterfall, and eat a little snack. It was definitely one of the most impressive waterfalls I have seen, and the experience of an exhausting hike made the Adventure even better. We relaxed and enjoyed the Falls for awhile before heading back on the main trail.

On our return trip we cut over to the Bemis Brook Trail. The Trail over to the Bemis Brook Trail was quite steep. I actually remember sitting down and scooting to make sure I did not fall. Upon arrival at the bottom we were pleased at the site of a lovely waterfall, before following the Brook and spotting at least one other waterfall along this trail. There were places for Shadow to swim and drink from the brook. The mountain water was pure in color, gorgeous, and magical in sound. It was so fun to find this side trail as I believe I did not know about these other lovely waterfalls before heading on this journey. This lovely trail completed a day of absolute Perfection! I would highly encourage you to visit the magnificent Arethusa Falls and the Bemis Brook Trail. I will forever remember this special Adventure with my Shadow. Please see a quick video and some photographs below. (I am hoping at a future date I will be able to get the longer video to download) (Rating: 5)