February 17, 2021 – East Chop Light – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to East Chop Light in Martha’s Vineyard. East Chop Light was originally built in 1876 and stands in the town of Oaks Bluff. It is appropriately 40 feet in height.

We had a peaceful Adventure to East Chop Light our first stop on our Martha’s Vineyard Adventure. We were the only guests at this location making it just right. We headed through the gate and over to East Chop. There was some fencing around the Lighthouse, but an opening that appeared to provide a door to wander the small grounds. It as a little unclear, but hopefully I visualized this correctly as there were no signs indicating otherwise. We walked around the grounds checking out the Lighthouse from each angle and of course Wilma appreciated the new smells. There were some benches nearby, and a purple porta potty right next to the Lighthouse – yikes! There was not much to explore, but so glad that we could visit East Chop Light today (Rating: 3).

October 18, 2020 – Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – Maine

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse in Rockland Maine. The Rockland Lighthouse is located at the end of a an almost one mile breakwater in Rockland, Harbor. The Lighthouse was built in 1902, and is attached to the home of the Lightkeeper.

Wilma and I had a fascinating Adventure to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. I had been interested in visiting this Lighthouse for some time so was thrilled for today’s Adventure. Upon arrival I was quite surprised about the endless number of parked cars, causing me to contemplate returning another time. However, we carried on and headed toward the Breakwater to analyze the situation. I was shocked when I spotted the Breakwater as although I knew it was long, I could not believe the expansive sight. We wandered down a short path before turning onto the breakwater. There were many people in attendance but due to the size of the breakwater everyone was reasonably spread out and there was enough space for two ways of traffic.

We headed down the Breakwater, barely even seeing the Lighthouse from afar. I was excited to begin this journey on this spectacular Fall day. I was careful to watch my footing, and glad Wilma is quite agile, even as her nose led the way. We walked and walked appreciating the unusual experience, the sun shining on the bright blue sea. As we walked I began to think about the water, often seeming to lap over the edge, and quite level with the Breakwater. Eventually I became disappointed to see that the Breakwater did not arrive at the Lighthouse, and soon discovered that the Breakwater was actually washed out! We walked as far as possible and stopped to take some photographs before returning back. On the way back my attention was drawn to the lovely Fall foliage along the shore. So although we never officially made it to the Rockland Lighthouse we sure did our best. We just will have to return again in the future to get the full experience, and up-close Lighthouse photographs (This blog will not be rated).

June 20, 2020 – Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Yesterday Wilma and I Adventured to the Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. The Goat Island Lighthouse was initially built in 1823 but later renovated. The grounds of the Lighthouse are open to the public, but not the Lighthouse itself. As expected the Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse is located in Newport Harbor.

We had a nautical Adventure to the Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse. There are few Lighthouses left within a day trip of us, so we were quite excited to visit this Lighthouse. I was not sure what to expect as I had read that Lighthouse was located behind Gurneys Newport Resort, and seen several reviews indicating you could walk through the lobby. I was pleased to find available parking and decided to first attempt to walk around this lovely resort, and after a short walk we arrived at the Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse.

The grounds of the Resort were quite busy with sunbathers and guests, but we appeared to be the only visitors after a view of the Lighthouse. As we got close we noticed the platform to the Lighthouse was blocked off but we were able to get near this fabulous, modern structure. It was simple, but yet perfectly shaped. There were views of boats from the shore, and the water shimmered beneath them. We did not spend a huge amount of time at this Lighthouse as there was just one angle for viewing, and not much else to see. So glad we were able to see the Newport Harbor/Goat Island Lighthouse today (Rating: 4).

April 25, 2020 – Nauset Lighthouse – Massachusetts

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Nauset Lighthouse (also referred to as the Nauset Beach Lighthouse) in Eastham, Massachusetts, part of Cape Cod. I actually have blogged about this Lighthouse in my “Throwback” blog but decided to highlight it again as I took minimal photos on the first visit, as well as Wilma had not visited this memorable Lighthouse. Shadow, My Mom, and I originally visited three years ago.

The Nauset Lighthouse was restored and relocated back in 1923. The Nauset Light Preservation Society currently maintains the Lighthouse and through private donations funded the restoration and relocation of the lighthouse. The Lighthouse has benches nearby and is located adjacent to the Nauset Light Beach.

I was excited to Adventure to the Nauset Lighthouse a second time as it is unusually colorful and absolutely scenic. We parked at the nearby beach and made the short trek over to the Lighthouse. Wilma was eager to explore, anticipating the enthusiasm in my steps. We found a scenic path to the side of the Lighthouse that led us to the top of the small hill and directly to the Lighthouse. The scenery was brown, yet had character. There were benches near the Lighthouse, and several educational kiosks. The roar from the ocean was fantastic, one of my favorite sounds of nature. We lingered around the area, making several rounds. On our way back I noticed several overgrown paths to the beach, so we ventured over to observe the scene. I was shocked to find us high above the beach, almost a large dune, yet we were in a wooded-like area. The site was just spectacular, and the sounds magnificent. I do not remember if we visited this beach on our initial visit, but definitely will be adding it to a future Adventure. One of my favorite photographs from today came at the Nauset Lighthouse of Wilma in the brown landscaping with the Nauset Lighthouse in the background. So glad both Shadow and Wilma were able to Adventure to the Nauset Lighthouse. I will include the photographs from our initial visit below at the bottom, but you also can search for the Nauset Lighthouse in my search box to read more about our first visit in April 2017. Definitely one of the beautiful Lighthouses in New England (Rating: 4).

April 2017 Visit

February 29, 2020 – Salem Maritime National Historic Site – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site in Salem, Massachusetts. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a nine acre Park that tells the history of the residents of Salem, interpreting maritime history and connections to the world. It includes twelve historic structures, replica ships, the Derby Lighthouse, as well as a downtown visitor Center. It was established in 1938 and was the first National Historic Site in the United States.

We had blue-sky filled Adventure to the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Although we have been to the area on at least one occasion this was the first time we thoroughly explored the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. I studied the online map ahead of time, and peaked on my phone throughout our visit. We began at the waterfront exploring the open greenery before heading down the Wharf toward the Lighthouse. There were beautiful clouds floating in the bright blue sky, the sun streaming through. We eagerly headed down the Wharf, soon passing the Pedrick Store House and the Friendship of Salem ship. There were chairs to the left overlooking the beach area. The pathway was scattered with goose poop (yuck!), shells, and was mostly consistent of rocks, and gravel. We took our time wandering to the end of the Wharf, exploring all the smells along the way.

Upon arriving at the Derby Lighthouse there were few people in sight, and we soon had this scenic view to ourselves. We spent a good amount of time wandering around the Lighthouse, and taking photographs. It was peaceful, and beautiful. I had been to this Lighthouse once before with Shadow and was pleased to visit again. We remained at the Lighthouse for awhile before other guests arrived and we headed back down the Wharf.

We then wandered to explore the historic homes. They were lovely, well-labeled and most separated in a small area which appeared to have fancy walkways, highlighted by white fencing. We stopped at all the various buildings reading the historic signs and information, as available. After making sure to stop at all landmarks listed on the map we wandered around the town of Salem for awhile, making sure to get a long walk. Not the cleanest of places, but definitely unique. Below you will see a collage of our photographs from the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. Glad we could visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site today (blog will not be rated as only the outdoors of the property was explored).

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.

Today’s feature is a photograph of Shadow and Wilma at the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, taken last March, in Bristol, Maine. This is definitely one of my favorite lighthouse poses of Shadow and Wilma, their ears blowing adorably in the wind. We were quite pleased to enjoy this gorgeous location in the off-season, few other visitors in sight. You can read more about our visit to the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse by typing it in the search box. It is also located under the Maine tab, as well as the Lighthouse tab.

Lighthouse kids

Throwback Adventure – Sanibel Island – Florida

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!

Shadow, Buster, and I had two separate Adventures to Sanibel Island back during our time living in Florida. Sanibel Island is located on the West Coast of Florida, and is approximately 15 miles in length. It is a popular tourist attraction, known for the beaches. A causeway connects Sanibel Island to the mainland. There is a fee to enter the Island.

We had beach-filled Adventures to Sanibel Island. I absolutely loved Sanibel Island, and the fact that it was so dog-friendly. There were beautiful beaches, with many shells, and the Sanibel Lighthouse. It was quite unique to find a Lighthouse in Florida. We spent lots of time wandering the beaches, and relaxing, the boys often playing and digging away. Definitely a peaceful, and gorgeous spot.

In searching for photographs I was able to locate a variety from our visit back in March 2012. Definitely memorable vacations in Sanibel Island. I hope some day we can make it back to this special oasis (Throwback Adventures will not always be rated).

September 14, 2019 – Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse – Maine

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Cape Neddick “Nubble”. Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is located in Cape Neddick, York, Maine. It is on Nubble Island off of Cape Neddick point. It was initially put into use in 1879, and continues to be a working lighthouse. The area is popular for visitors, and even has a small gift shop and restrooms (available in season).

We had a perfect Adventure to the Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse. We have been to the Nubble Lighthouse many times previously, but it really is quite spectacular, so I decided to blog about it again. We arrived to find huge gust of winds, an incoming tide, and an abundance of crashing waves, a gorgeous scene. Upon wandering around, we soon found some scuba divers performing a practice exercise. Wilma was quite intrigued by the divers, unsure of the scene. We observed for a bit before moving on, climbing on the rocks, and loving every moment. There were flowers between the rocks, and in the grass, bright yellows, pinks, and whites, just lovely. We explored, and explored, cherishing the full coastal experience. Shadow especially loved his rolls, and often searched for a tidal pool, hoping for a sip and dip. Wilma was quite wild at this location, energized by the rocks, and guest attention. Thankfully I manged to stay on my feet in Wilma’s exuberance. After wandering around for awhile we sat in the grass to relax and savor our wonderful afternoon.

Before we left Nubble Lighthouse I decided to check out the food at Fox’s Lobster House, located on the property. I was quite thankful to see an outdoor window. The menu appeared a bit pricey so a good excuse to order myself an ice cream, and a “puppy pop” for Shadow and Wilma. Although there was a seating area the location was very busy with guests so I felt it ideal to find a rock and a grassy spot to savor our treats. Our timing was not ideal as it began pouring! Shadow quickly began eating his “pop” while Wilma wanted nothing to do with the rain. So I attempted to eat my ice cream, and next thing I knew Shadow’s had vanished. I searched the crannies of the nearby rocks and was unable to locate the “pop”. Shadow decided to go for seconds, grabbing Wilma’s bowl. I somehow was able to rescue it for Wilma and we scurried back to the car. I felt badly I could not locate Shadow’s dish, and thought for a quick moment – did he eat that too?! Wilma was able to eat her “pop” in the car but seemed to have lost interest.

The Nubble Lighthouse is a special place. The only downfall is the large tourist draw, buses even arriving and dropping off guests. However, we had a magnificent visit to the Nubble Lighthouse, a quintessential New England landmark (Rating: 4.5)

Please see below for photos and videos from today’s visit, and at the bottom I included several from previous visits, including with our love Buster

Previous Visits:

July 23, 2019 – Castle Hill Lighthouse – Rhode Island

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, Rhode Island. Castle Hill Lighthouse was built in 1898, and is made of granite. It is located in the Narragansett Bay and continues to be an active lighthouse.

We had a perfect Adventure to the Castle Hill Lighthouse. We were pleased that the rain subsided, cooling down the air, and providing us the perfect opportunity for a new Adventure. I had done some research online about the Castle Hill Lighthouse but contacted the Castle Hill Inn to ensure that we could park at the Inn and visit the “private property”. I was thrilled to have that information confirmed so we hit the road. Upon arrival the Valet at the Castle Hill Inn informed us that they were not busy so we were able to park in the main parking lot, immediately next to the trail. The Lighthouse trail was not labeled so I was pleased to get these directions.

We were immediately drawn to the gorgeous views of the Narragansett Bay. It was absolutely breathtaking! The shores were rocky and we were able to check out the scene from high above. We took in the scenery, Shadow celebrating our arrival with a joyful roll! After appreciating the sites we headed down the trail. The path was simple, but perfect. There were wildflowers, and it was closed in at points with gorgeous greenery, almost magical. It really was just lovely. I was excited, eagerly awaiting the view of the Bay, and the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It did not take long for us to arrive at the Castle Hill Lighthouse. It was absolutely spectacular, quite unique in style. Pleased to have the area to ourselves we walked down the steps to the bottom of the Lighthouse, before heading back up and viewing each and every angle. It was a gorgeous location. We spent some time at this spot, snapping many photographs.

After taking in the scene we headed back to the trail to wander farther. We met several visitors along the way, which delighted energetic Wilma, who took in every bit of love. We walked for a couple minutes, and soon found a bench leading to the spectacular rocky shore. The rocks were uniquely shaped, and almost silver in color. I have been to many rocky shore but have never seen such stunning rocks. I did my best to find a smooth walk for Shadow and I, while Wilma jumped athletically from rock to rock. We soon found a perfect spot to sit, and relax, watching the fisherman, and appreciating the coastal breeze. Shadow enjoyed some rain water left in the rocks, and took a seat next to me, while Wilma focused her attention on the birds. Everything about this Adventure was just perfect. We will definitely have to visit the Castle Hill Lighthouse again (Rating: 5)

Throwback Adventure – Palmer Island Lighthouse – Massachusetts

In January 2017 Shadow and I Adventured to the Palmer Lighthouse in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The Palmer Lighthouse is located in the Acushnet River at the entrance to New Bedford Harbor. It was built in 1849. The Lighthouse is twenty four feet high and is made out of stone rubble. It can be reached by foot at low tide through the hurricane wall in New Bedford Harbor. The Palmer Lighthouse is no longer a working lighthouse.

We had a wild Adventure to the Palmer Ligthouse on a cool winter day. We had many Adventures in New Bedford on this day, and the Palmer Lighthouse was one of our most scenic stops. I do not remember doing much research but found that we could make our way to the Lighthouse as the tide was low. Having no idea what the tidal patterns were we decided to journey to the Lighthouse, closely watching the water. We met a nice family along the way that adored Shadow, while also ran into some teenagers in the appearing to be up to some trouble. I was quite disappointed at all the trash in the area, I guess left behind from the tide. However we carried on, sometimes on rocky footing, but soon arrived at the Palmer Lighthouse. The Lighthouse was quite stunning, bright white and uniquely stone. There was a stone-like pathway directly to the Lighthouse so we were able to climb to the door to check out this beautiful Lighthouse. We really lucked out finding low tide on this visit, but did not stay long unsure what to expect upon our return. A fun, and memorable Adventure to the Palmer Lighthouse (Rating: 3).