September 25, 2020 – Clearview Farm – Massachusetts

Today Wilma, My Mom, and I Adventured to Clearview Farm in Sterling, Massachusetts. Clearview Farm is an 85 acre Farm located on the top of Kendall Hill. The Farm includes: pick your own fruit, a farm stand with fresh fruit and baked items, and is host to fall festivals and a variety of events.

We had an apple filled Adventure to Clearview Farm. Every year we plan one annual apple picking trip, and I was excited it was upon us! It was a little hotter then I preferred but still the perfect way to end a stressful work week. We arrived to find a small Farm, framed with pumpkins and mums. Dogs were not permitted in the Farm Stand, but were allowed in all other areas of the Farm. We obtained our bags and headed to the orchard. We passed by some roaring dogs which was a little nerve racking, but were pleased to see they were contained. The orchard was simple, yet scenic. On the opposite side we located a small pumpkin patch, a lovely Fall scene. There was a map indicating which apples were located on each tree. I am far from picky about apples but tried to pick a diverse variety.

We took photographs, and wandered from tree to tree. Wilma enjoyed a great amount of rolls, and laid in the grass relaxing on this warm evening. She is always eager to get a look from other visitors, constantly wagging and hopeful, my social girl. We took our time and made sure to fill our bags. I dreamt about what I may cook, maybe apple crisp, maybe a pie…?? Lots of tasty moments to come. Apple picking is one of those fall activities which makes me happy to be a New Englander, anticipating the wonders of Fall. So glad we could visit Clearview Farm today (Rating: 3).

July 6, 2019 – Gary’s Ice Cream – Massachusetts

Tonight Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Gary’s Ice Cream in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Gary’s Ice Cream was founded by Gary Frascarelli who is a hands-on owner, creating, designing, and selling his products. Gary’s Ice Cream is known for making each and every flavor of their ice cream.

We had a stomach-filling Adventure to Gary’s Ice Cream. We could not resist another ice cream Adventure after a hot and stormy day. Upon arrival we were not surprised to see few visitors with the storm just barely having passed through. The dogs put in their order (haha) while I decided to go for a root beer float. I was a bit disappointed to see store bought dog ice cream, although I guess that is not fair of me to complain as they did offer dog ice cream! A treat was also added to their order!

After receiving our goodies we headed over to the picnic tables in the grass. It was raining, but I did not see any lightning so we relaxed for a bit, savoring our refreshing deserts! There was a tiny scenic bridge, and some lilies, but overall a simple setting. We walked around after Shadow and Wilma finished their ice cream. I then decided to bring home the remainder of my very large, and sticky float. I think my favorite part of Gary’s Ice cream was their dog loving ice cream cup! It was nice to find yet another local ice cream shop on this stormy evening (Rating: 3).

June 30, 2019 – Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant in Lowell, Massachusetts. Heritage Farm has homemade ice cream, burgers, and sandwiches. It was established in 1976 by the current owners, however previous to that date it was an ice cream shop as well. Heritage Farms is known for sponsoring free entertainment, for their Classic Car show, and for being a contributing member of the community.

We had a refreshing Adventure to the Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant. I started the weekend feeling quite frustrated, again having car issues which forced me to cancel our weekend Adventures. However, I decided to risk a somewhat local stop providing some variety to our daily neighborhood walks and backyard fun.

We definitely appreciated our visit to Heritage Farms, which had a vintage, and patriotic vibe. I quickly ordered two dog ice creams, and decided on an orange sherbert cooler for me. Only one size available for my cooler creating an extra-large experience, but of course I did not have any problem sipping it down. The Farm was very quiet, so we were able to sit for a bit and enjoy our tasty treats. There was a cute little merry go around for the little ones, and some mechanical cars for riding. The “Farm” was nicely decorated, with white petunias, american flags, and colors preparing for this July 4th week. I would have preferred the “Farm” to be away from the main drag, however, a bit unrealistic in an urban setting like Lowell. A unique stop, and although the ice cream was quite pricey, the taste was well worth the cost. If we are ever in the area again, we might just visit have round to at Heritage Farm Ice Cream and Restaurant (Rating: Ice cream: 5, Outdoor Restaurant: 4, Location: 3).

June 1, 2019 – Crescent Ridge Dairy – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Crescent Ridge Dairy in Sharon, Massachusetts. Crescent Ridge Dairy is a Farm that includes a shop, farm animals to view, and an ice cream stand. They specialize in local produce, and homemade products.

We had a mouthwatering Adventure to Crescent Ridge Dairy after our nearby hike at The Bradley Estate. It was great to arrive at this ice cream stand to find no lines! I checked out the menu and quickly decided to choose cookie doe ice cream with whip cream, and of course a dog ice cream for my two best friends. Once our order was ready we headed over to a shady area to gobble up our ice cream. So tasty! I was actually unable to finish my ice cream, however packed it up for a future treat. We walked around the property and found some benches in the back, and farm animals on the side. Wilma was thrilled to see the goats, and it appeared as if she wanted to play with them. It definitely brought a smile to my face. Shadow was more interested in trying to find leftovers under the tables, my always hopeful boy! We were quite happy to visit Crescent Ridge Dairy today (Rating: 4, Dog Ice Cream: 5)

May 27, 2019 – Granny’s Ice Cream – New York

I am a bit behind on my blog from the weekend as we had a busy weekend of Adventures. Therefore I will be sharing these Adventures throughout the week.

On Monday Shadow, Wilma, My friends, and I Adventured to Granny’s Ice Cream on Route 29 in Johnstown, New York. Granny’s Ice Cream is part of the Royal Mountain Campground, and offers soft serve ice cream and other light food items.

We had a tasty Adventure to Granny’s Ice Cream to begin our Memorial Day. I would say Granny’s Ice Cream is in somewhat of a remote area, however was quite busy, likely due to the campground, and popular motorcyle route. Wilma seemed a bit unsure of this unfamiliar environment so she hung out with one of my friends, while our other friend, Shadow, and I waited in line. (Maybe because there was a big wandering around on a leash – haha!) I decided to try the cotton candy soft serve, and of course two dog friendly ice creams. Shadow and Wilma gobbled up their ice cream quickly as we sat in the grass. I savored my cotton candy ice cream, until Wilma, had a moment of excitement and ended up IN my ice cream. The aftermath left her quite thrilled as she was able to lick up this new flavor on her covered foot! Luckily I was just about full, so I guess the moment could remain humorous. We sat for a bit socializing with our friends, relishing the last day of our vacation. Nothing too fancy, but definitely glad to chow down on some ice cream, something I had been hoping for since the weekend began. It was a delicious stop on our journey back to Massachusetts (Rating: 3, Dog Ice Cream – 5, Company: Just right!)

April 20, 2019 – Kimball Farm – Carlisle, Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Kimball Farm in Carlisle, Massachusetts. We have been to Kimball’s in Westford, but this was our first visit to the Carlisle location. Kimball’s Farm began as a dairy farm in 1908, with the Kimball family selling milk whole sale. In 1939 they opened an ice cream parlor, and began making handmade ice cream. Kimball Farm has grown over the years, and Carlisle is one of their expanded locations. The Kimball Farm continues to be family owned.

We had a delicious Adventure to Kimball Farm- Carlisle – on this humid and rainy day. I was excited to check out this location, a much quieter spot in the world of Kimball’s. I ordered our favorites – peppermint stick and dog ice cream. We enjoyed our tasty treats, and walked around the building checking out the location. There were benches, and some farm animals over to the side. Wilma was far from a fan of the goat so we did not spend time near the animals. It was nice to see the beautiful flower arrangements, singing spring. We definitely will be back to this tasty, quiet spot (Rating: 4).

April 13, 2019 – Shipwreck Ice Cream -Massachusetts

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Shipwreck Ice Cream in Sandwich, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. Shipwreck Ice Cream is served from an outdoor window and as suggested specializes in ice cream and ice cream products.

We had a tasty Adventure to Shipwreck Ice Cream to wrap-up our day of spectacular Adventures. Shipwreck Ice Cream had a large listing of flavors and of course dog ice cream for my favorite pals. Shadow and Wilma watched attentively and eagerly ready to devour their tasty treat. I decided to order a peanut butter cup frappe, venturing away from my normal couple of flavors.

Once our order was complete we headed over to the nice open area with picnic tables and trees. I of course had to take some photographs before the pups savored their treats. Well maybe inhaled is a better way but either way they were quite pleased.

Shipwreck Ice Cream was a wonderful spot to finish a fun filled day of Adventures (Rating: 4).

July 13, 2018 – New Hampshire – Frosty Scoops

Yesterday we made a stop at Frosty Scoops in Plymouth, New Hampshire. Frosty Scoops is an adorable little ice cream stand on Main Street that sells homemade ice cream. They are connected to the Common Man Inn and Spa, a well known Inn, Spa and restaurant in the area.

We were very happy to find an ice cream shop with a window to get a treat to cool down on a nice warm day. I was pleased, and surprised to see the dog ice cream was free, and although just a tiny little scoop, Shadow and Wilma sure did not complain. I myself decided to order a frappe. We then found a nice corner, shaded area to sit, sip, and devour. The set-up for this outdoor area was perfect, with fun music blasting, a sandbox for the kids to play, picnic tables, outdoor games, and benches for guests. There was even a retro truck on display. Definitely a fun atmosphere to enjoy some ice cream on a summer day (Rating: 4, Dog Ice Cream: 3).

June 10, 2018 – Massachusetts – Ashuelot River Park, Walpole Creamery, and Beaver Brook Falls

Today we had three adventures in Keene, NH. It was a beautiful spring day, the perfect temperature for some shady hikes. Our first stop was at the Ashuelot River Park. The Ashuelot River Park is a 157 acre park, which includes the River, and adjoining wetlands. There are numerous trails throughout the park, many alongside the River. The trails are especially popular for bicyclists.

When we first arrived at the Park we found a well groomed open area, with beautiful flowers, and benches. We quickly arrived at the pedestrian bridge, and the Old Mill Dam. We spent a couple hours wandering the beautiful trails, mostly choosing the route neighboring the River. There were a couple spots along the trail that were near residential areas, but mostly we felt away from the world, and at peace with nature. The birds were chirping, and the scenery was peaceful. It was a great Park of which to enjoy the day (Rating: 4).

Our second stop today was the Walpole Creamery in downtown Keene. I always love finding an ice cream stop with an outdoor window, and dog ice cream available for the pups. We made our purchase and found a quiet grassy area to enjoy our ice cream, and to sit for a bit. It is good to note that there were some nicely shaded umbrella areas in front of the creamery, but I figured we would be more comfortable in the grassy shade. We each greatly enjoyed our refreshing ice cream. Shadow and Wilma then enjoyed some time playing, and rolling around in the grass. Definitely the perfect, and energizing break in between our stops (Rating: 4)

Our last stop of the day was at the Beaver Brook Waterfall. The trail was less then a mile long, slowly sloping upwards, on an old New Hampshire highway. The trail was not too picturesque, with wires above and the sounds of local traffic nearby. It was therefore especially pleasant to hear the babbling Beaver Brook, reminding us that we were truly on on adventure in nature. We walked along the top of the gorge, and could see the Brook far below. However, I was so disappointed to arrive at the Falls, as I found no viewing opportunities. We could hear the magical sound of the water, but yet it was so overgrown that there was not a glimpse in site. Possibly with some steep, risky climbs, but yet with two dogs in tow, really not an option. So although I feel like I must have missed something, we never did see the Beaver Brook Falls. I attempt to think like a dog in these times, and just enjoy the moment, and the experience. Luckily there were some moments to dip into the Brook, a rock to pose on, and I even saw a beaver like creature along the trail. Glad we attempted to see this waterfall, while in Keene (Rating: 2)