April 21, 2019 – Francis William Bird Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Francis William Bird Park in Walpole, Massachusetts. The Francis William Bird Park is owned and maintained by the Trustees of Reservations. There are approximately 89 acres of landscaped property, open fields, recreation areas, and several ponds. The Park has approximately three miles of walking trails.

We had an overcast Adventure to the Francis William Bird Park on this Easter afternoon. I was thrilled to find this lovely little Park, unique in so many ways. We arrived at the main parking lot, crossed the street, and landed in an open field. We were greeted by The Trustees of Reservation kiosk which provided paper brochures with maps and information. The initial plan was to follow particular trails, but the paths were not labeled creating more work to view the map continually. Therefore we chose to wander aimlessly allowing our snouts and eyes to direct the route. Our first highlight was the “Music Court” probably my favorite non-nature aspect of the Park. It was a classic and distinctive architectural structure allowing oneself to imagine being at an outdoor event. There were even some sweet little ones appearing to perform a show of their own. A simple, yet scenic feature of the Park.

From there we strolled to various locations throughout the Park. I adored the flowering trees, distinct “footbridges”, Beech trees, gurgling brooks, and water features. Wilma loved watching the ducks, while both Shadow and Wilma relished the ponds, and attention from as many visitors as they could real in. The trails varied from cobblestone to rocks to dirt, adding variety. There were additional labels and information kiosks around the property which was very helpful, and also educational. Lastly, I was quite pleased to find a place where ALL of the dogs we encountered were under voice, or leash control of the owners. Sadly this is not always the case, and it is something I really do appreciate.

If you may be wondering, I located The Francis William Bird Park through the Trustees of Reservations which I have been learning about in the last several months. 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 Francis William Bird Park and expect to be back to visit (Rating: 3.5)

April 20, 2019 – The Old Manse – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to The Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts. The Old Manse is a historic manse famous for its history and literacy associations. Writers Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne both lived in this property at one point in their lives. The Trustees of Reservations runs The Old Manse which is now a museum that offers Tours and houses a bookstore. The Old Manse neighbors the Minute Man National Historic Park, and is a National Historic Landmark.

We had a humid Adventure to The Old Manse after a rainy morning. We were inspired by The Trustees of Reservations, and decided to visit The Old Manse to take some photographs. We have been to this area before, but choose to concentrate on The Old Manse, its history, and the grounds. Parking was available right in front of the building, which was quite convenient. We headed directly to this scenic structure, soon being greeted by an information board about the property. From there we strolled past and around The Old Manse. It was exciting to see some spring blooms, a recent and jovial sight for us New Englanders! The Old Manse, and area surrounding is very picturesque. There are beautiful stone walls, gorgeous landscaping, and other landmarks in site. Wilma hopped on several rocks, Shadow enjoyed a dip in the River, and both pups enjoyed some cheerful rolls in the grass. Often we found ourselves wandered aimlessly in attempt to notice all the little details. We were pleased to visit The Old Manse today (Rating: 3).

If you are interested in reading more about our visit to the neighboring Minuteman National Historic Park you can type the name in the “Search Box” (you will see the “search box” at the bottom of the page on a mobile device, and to the right side if you are utilizing a computer).

November 4, 2018 – Halibut Point State Park – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Halibut Point State Park in Rockport, Massachusetts. We have been there on numerous other occasions. Halibut Point State Park parallels Halibut Point Reservation. Halibut Point is a granite quarry that was quarried as early as 1840. The Park is also located on the ocean. It includes: trails, scenic views, and areas for picnicking. There is also a visitor center and lighthouse on the grounds that both appear to be under construction.

We had a fantastic Adventure to Halibut Point State Park on a beautiful sunny Fall day. It was a bit breezy being on the coast, but not overly chilly. We started down the Fall colored trail which quickly led to the quarry. We decided to head over to the lighthouse, soon noting it was under construction. The view across the quarry from this spot was spectacular, some Fall trees aligning the background. From there we began our circle around the quarry, and branched off to the rocky shore.

The rocky shore is definitely a fun spot at the Halibut Point State Park. It allows you to separate from the many visitors and jump from rock to rock, exploring tidal pools as you choose. The tide appeared to be in, so there were not quite as many rock as I recall. We walked around a bit, Wilma appearing over-enthused, likely due to the many rocks. I had to watch to not loose my balance as she often jumped unexpectedly in every direction, continually trying to engage Shadow in some play-time. Shadow appeared content relaxing on the rocks, eager to get my attention as we took in the roaring music of the waves. We even took some photographs for our holiday card, a fun project in the making.

After enjoying some time at the shore we continued circling the trail around the quarry, often heading over to the edge to snap some photographs. It was a beautiful day at a unique location. I am guessing it may have been one of Wilma’s favorites as she protested by laying near the car when we were trying to leave. Never a dull moment in our household!

I included some photographs from some of our past trips to the Park. I am sure we will be back to explore Halibut Point State Park (Rating: 4).

Today, November 4, 2018