May 25, 2020 – Connecticut College Arboretum – Connecticut

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Connecticut College Arboretum in New London, Connecticut. The Connecticut College Arboretum is an Arboretum and collection of botanical gardens. It provides opportunities for research, teaching, conservation, education and recreation.

We had an eccentric Adventure to the Connecticut College Arboretum. I had heard about the Arboretum back on our last visit to the area and was quite excited to head back to New London. After some confusion with parking, we eventually arrived on Williams Street and parked at the gate entry. Soon after heading in there was a map on a kiosk, but it did not have a detailed trail routes so we decided to wander with no specific plan. We soon arrived at the Azalea garden, finding pink, orange, red, and various other colors. From there we came upon a pond, hearing the bullfrogs chirping loudly, and birds singing. We located a dock-like area and of course had to head out to the end. Wilma seemed slightly uneasy at the shaking of the dock, but overall was quite brave and curious at this floating feature. There were lily pads throughout, and rocks protruding. After exploring the pond we headed on to the trails.

I loved the trails at the Arboretum, feeling as though we were transferred into another environment. Along the trail we found large boulders, views from atop of a ravine, a dock like boardwalk through a bog, and lots of greenery and trees. Although I found the Trails a bit confusing we always ended up figuring out where we had been and where to go next. There were numbers on several parts of the trail, but I was not sure what they were indicating, my guess is a self-guided tour. We walked, walked, and attempted to traverse all the trails we could find.

After enjoying endless walking we found various areas of the Arboretum including the wildflower garden, and the conifer collection. I actually found myself appreciating not having a map as we never knew what we might find around the corner. Wilma enjoyed a nice long hike and as always was eager for some exercise and new terrain. We spent about two and a half hours at this spectacular Arboretum. Definitely a fun place to explore (Rating: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Rita’s Italian Ice – Connecticut

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Rita’s Italian Ice in New London, Connecticut. Rita’s is a national restaurant chain that began out of Pennsylvania. It is popular for the custards, italian ice, and specialty deserts. The ice is smoother then the “normal” italian ice and has fresh fruit.

We had a refreshing Adventure to Rita’s Italian Ice. I was sooo incredibly excited to go to Rita’s Italian Ice. I have special memories of Rita’s Italian Ice from my undergraduate years in Pennsylvania. We would go there for a special treat, with the small size being just 75 cents! It was so tasty, a great social time, and perfect for the college wallet. This was my first visit to Rita’s since that time! I was pleased to find that Rita’s provided a small custard cup for the dogs! After ordering our goodies we found a quiet seating area in the back. Both My Mom and I had ordered black cherry Gelato’s, and it did not disappoint. So delicious with custard on the bottom and top, creating the perfect creamy flavor. Shadow and Wilma thoroughly enjoyed their first custard experience and quickly devoured their treat. We were thankful that the temperature had cooled a bit and took our time enjoying every bite. So glad that I FINALLY could reminisce at Rita’s Italian Ice (Rating: Italian Ice and Custard: 5, Location: 4).

August 31, 2019 – Fort Trumbull State Park – Connecticut

Today Shadow, Wilma, My Mom and I Adventured to Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, Connecticut. Fort Trumbull was built in 1977, but was re-constructed several times, including the final rebuilding between 1839 and 1852. Fort Trumbull was attacked and captured by British Forces during the Revolutionary War. The Fort also was utilized as defense during future wars including the Civil War. It is located on the Thames River. Fort Trumbull was opened as a State Park in the year 2000. The Fort has a Visitor Center, offers tours, and hosts special events including concerts.

We had a historic Adventure to Fort Trumbull State Park. We were excited to have my Mom join us for our Connecticut Adventures today. Upon arrival I was quite impressed by the grand, and scenic Fort. Over to the side you could see the beautiful, bright blue River, just a spectacular entrance. The grounds of the Fort were perfectly groomed. There were paved trails around the Fort, and a larger loop closer to the shore. We sauntered around the Fort, taking photos, and appreciating the sites. We spotted the Pier which was filled with hopeful fisherman. Near the Pier there was a large Coast Guard Boat, adding the perfect touch to the Park. We sat for a bit and relaxed in the shade. There were many boats floating by peacefully, quite picturesque.

As we completed our loop around the Fort we peaked inside the Fort to view the internal sites. The front desk had stated they preferred the dogs not enter the inside of the Fort, so we did not explore, or traverse to the top of the Fort. However, we engaged in our own personal tour of the rest of the highlights of the Park, covering everything we could locate.

Throughout our visit Shadow and Wilma enjoyed many rolls, and lapped up lots of water. I was a bit disappointed at the unexpected heat of the day, but had luckily prepared well with lots of water, and breaks as needed. The Fort really was gorgeous, towering high above therefore providing vast views of the River. We had a wonderful visit to the Fort Trumbull State Park (Rating: 4).