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.

So my feature video today is a photograph from a Winter moment with Shadow and Buster, many years ago. I have not yet blogged about this park/waterfall, but it is from Trapp Falls, in Townsend, Massachusetts. The Falls is small, and even smaller in the Winter, but still a special local spot. This photograph is a great moment capturing an Adventure as both Shadow and Buster peer back at the Falls. Synchronized, scenic, perfection, all captured in this shot of my handsome boys. We sure do love our Adventures! Glad Buster was able to enjoy many special moments too!

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March 3, 2019 – Sabbaday Falls – Winter Visit – New Hampshire

Yesterday Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Sabbaday Falls. I have blogged about this location previously in my “Throwback Adventure” section, however decided to blog about it again as this was our first visit in Winter. Sabbaday Falls is a popular waterfall located in Waterfall Valley, along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. There is a short, handicapped accessible travel trail to Sabbaday Falls. Sabbaday Falls is an approximate thirty five to forty five foot drop, ending in a Gorge-like area. The waterfall is made up of a series of cascades.

We had a spectacular, icicle-filled Adventure to Sabbaday Falls on a warm, Winter day. This Winter Adventure looked completely different then this location in the other seasons. I was ecstatic to see the parking lot plowed, and a path in place for the hike as I had tried once before to visit this Falls in Winter with no luck. We began our journey up and over a gigantic snowbank, and immediately arrived on the trail. The trail branched over to the stream on two occasions, however not being able to see the rocks or our footing we did not venture too far in that direction. However the mysterious covered stream created a lovely Winter scene with framed circles forming here and there.

We continued on the main trail. I suspect the snow was several feet high as I noticed we were walking almost at the top of the railing of a fence, on the groomed snow path. As long as we stayed on the trail we did not sink down, and were able to walk steadily along. It did not take us long to arrive at the Falls. Most of the waterfall was covered with snow, which must have been sitting over the frozen ice. I was pleased that we had been there previously as we would have really not known the “normal” flow of the Falls.

The most gorgeous part of the area was some spectacular icicles coming down the rocks, at the bottom area of the cascades. Below the icicles there was a gorgeous rock filled pool with flowing water. I really could not get enough of this special scene. Shadow humored me as he continually tried to dive into the water pool, although wondering if he might get stuck, I decided it best not to swim at this location. He sure is one adventurous water boy!

It was really a magical Adventure at this gorgeous location. I would encourage you to visit Sabbaday Falls once in every season as it is just a lovely spot. So glad we were able to get in our winter visit (Rating: 5).

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.

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)

February 2, 2019 – Hemlock Gorge Reservation – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to the Hemlock Gorge Reservation in Newton, and Needham, Massachusetts. Hemlock Gorge Reservation is an urban state park that is approximately 16 acres in size. It is on the Charles River and is especially known for the Echo Bridge, and a waterfall.

We had a unique Adventure to the Hemlock Gorge Reservation on this dark and chilly February day. I found this Reservation when planning a visit to the Echo Bridge, soon finding that the Bridge was located in the Hemlock Gorge Reservation. We began our journey following a very simple, snow covered trail. The trail was in close range to the Charles River, located to our right. The trail weaved up and around, soon leading us to a lovely waterfall. The waterfall sang a beautiful song, and was framed by frozen ice, and snow covered icicles, quite the picturesque scene. We enjoyed the sound of the falls, and the winter scene before turning to our left where we saw the Echo Bridge. The Bridge was grand in size, with arches below. We walked to the water’s edge to get a better view as Shadow and Wilma enjoyed the ice and some sips from the River.

We then headed to the top of the Bridge and noticed we could walk across the top, displaying a lovely view from above. We met a nice young lady, with a sweet little dog named Charlie. The dogs said hello and she filled us in on the area, which was great as there really was little detailed information available. We then continued over the Echo Bridge, down the stairs, and across the street to the well known platform said to have a special “Echo”. I was completely awed at the grand echo from my voice, and quite humored by the dogs’ reaction looking around as they heard their names. I attempted a video below, but the echo is very faint in the video. It was quite the fun moment, definitely meeting all my expectations from my readings.

After enjoying the echo for a bit we headed back to a trail over to the “Island”. We took a wrong turn before finding the trail leading to the “Island”. There was a simple, but beautiful snow-covered bridge crossing over to this location. We walked around a bit checking out the view of the River and the Echo Bridge from afar. The busy roads were not far, reminding us that we were in an urban park, however there were very little visitors making it quiet in its own special way.

Although the Hemlock Gorge Reservation was a very simple urban park, it really did exceed my expectations. I still am awed by the echo, loved the walk high atop the bridge, and enjoyed the picturesque winter waterfall. If you are in the area definitely a fun little place to check-out (Rating: 3).

Throwback Adventure – Conservation Land – Massachusetts

Shadow, Buster and I enjoyed many Adventures to an untitled, suspected conservation trail in Sterling, Massachusetts. These particular photos were from our visit in June 2014, although I am guessing I may have other photographs tucked away in my files. We absolutely loved visiting this trail. It was near ponds, streams, up hills, and through the woods. We rarely saw any other hikers and several times even saw beavers on our visits. There was a little waterfall nearby, and lot of spots for the boys to run and swim. It was a special location which really made you feel like you were deep in the wilderness. We often would branch of the trail and find secret spots to explore. It was an amazing and new Adventure each and every time, and carved many fun memories in my heart.

So if you are one of my followers, or visitors who is inspired to visit stops on our Adventures, you might be disappointed as I cannot provide you an exact location. However I again encourage you to enjoy your location conservation land. Many spectacular, and quiet spots to explore (Rating: 4).

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December 31, 2018 – Manchaug Falls – Massachusetts

Today Shadow, Wilma and I Adventured to Manchaug Falls in Sutton, Massachusetts. The Manchaug Falls is located in the village in Manchaug, part of the town of Sutton. It feeds the Mumford River.

So our Adventure today took a detour when we arrived at our planned destination to see signs of hunting in the area. I was extremely disappointed to find this, but felt it was best to not venture on the trails but to return in a safer season. Soooo I was pleased to find the Manchaug Falls not to far from our original destination.

We began our Adventure to the Manchaug Falls by parking near where I had read it was located. We soon were able to locate the Falls by following roaring sound of the water, guiding us to the Mumford River Trail. The Trail was a short with benches along the path, over the River. We strolled along enjoying the sounds of the rushing water, before arriving at the Falls. The Falls was wide in length, but short in height, flowing with steady, even water. The thunderous music was quite spectacular to our ears. Overall the area was brown and dull, but the Falls itself was quite lovely. A simple, but pleasant detour on our Adventure today (Rating: 3)

October 28, 2018 – Wadsworth State Park – Connecticut

Today Shadow, Wilma, and I Adventured to Wadsworth State Park in the towns of Middlefield and Middletown, Connecticut. The park is a 285 acre park filed with trails, fishing, swimming, mountain biking, and two waterfalls. It is located on the Coginchaug River. Clarence Wadsworth, a well known Colonel, linguist, and scholar developed the land in order to preserve it for all citizens, therefore earning the name.

We had a delightful Fall Adventure to Wadsworth State Park. Although the day was dark from previous rain, and the temperature crisp, it was just perfect for a hike. We were excited to explore a Park in Connecticut, a place we have not frequented as much as the remaining New England states. Upon exiting the car we could immediately hear the roaring of the “Big” Falls. Although I had printed a map, we quickly found a large map which we viewed before heading straight to the “Big” Falls. The “Big” Falls was thunderous, and quite spectacular. It is hard to know what to expect when you plan a visit to a waterfall as sometimes they can be practically non-existent, especially in off season. The “Big” Falls, however did not disappoint, as it was heavy flowing, and music to our ears. The ground was covered with gorgeous Fall leaves adding the perfect touch to the lovely scene.

After viewing the “Big” Falls we searched for the trailhead. It took us awhile to finally find this location as we had to walk down the main street before eventually coming to the sign. A brief moment of frustration, but we soon were off on our way. We hiked all over this magnificent Park, the leaves yellow, red, and brightly patterned. There were numerous trails and turns, requiring constant peaks at the map. So lucky I had printed the map so we did not miss any highlights, and could not worry about getting lost. So with this map we headed to the “Little” Falls, which was less then a mile down the orange trail, and off onto the blue trail. Another marvelous waterfall this one had less flow, and more rocks, yet gorgeous in its own way. We spent a bit exploring the “Little” Falls, while the pups enjoyed some fresh flowing water.

From there we followed different colored trails attempting to find the various highlights on the map. There were shallow streams, a pond from afar, and even a “Giant Laurel” tree. I was humored by even locating a “Purple” trail, which might have been a first on our many Adventures. We spent about three hours hiking, seeing other friendly visitors here and there along the way. Definitely an enjoyable afternoon at the Wadsworth State Park (Rating: 4)

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Throwback Adventure – Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site – October 2015

In October 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site in Cornish, New Hampshire. This Site is the former home, gardens, and studios of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Much of his artwork is displayed in the gallery and on the grounds. The Site includes: nature trails, tours, summer concerts, and workshops.

We had a delightful Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site on a gorgeous Fall day, three years ago. It was nice to arrive at a location with hardly another visitor in site. I recall being awed at the exquisite and stunning landscape, views, and brilliant colors of the Park. I did little research ahead of time, so we let our eyes and ears lead us on our evening Adventure. We began by traversing some trails into the woods, quickly finding a small, but roaring waterfall covered with Autumn leaves. We spent some time relaxing at the waterfall’s edge, as the boys drank from the brook. We then explored various trails throughout the woods before returning to the main Site.

Another picturesque part of the Site was, of course, the home of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, I believe titled “Aspet”. This massive and charming home was absolutely breathtaking with various architectural marks of charm. We walked around the home several times taking in this grand structure, as the sunset began to encompass the sky. Pure white in color the building almost transformed you into another place in time. Definitely a lovely building, helping to exude the photographer within.

One memory on this Adventure was my amusement with a small mirror I found on the grounds, assisting me in some humorous photo opportunities. Maybe I was too easily entertained, however have great memories of some giggles with yes, just a simple mirror.

Overall our Adventure to the Saint-Gaudens Historical Site was perfectly magnificent. Surprisingly it is one of the least visited in the country, but yet so spectacular. The landscape was stunning, from the official gardens, to the birch trees, to the mountain views, to the hidden Falls in the midst of a colorful Autumn Forest. I could not have been more impressed with the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site. Definitely a spot I would love to visit again (Rating: 5).

Throwback Adventure – Fall of Song – New Hampshire

In August 2015 Shadow, Buster and I Adventured to the Fall of Song waterfall in Moultonborough, New Hampshire. The Fall of Song Waterfall is a forty foot waterfall, sourced by the Shannon Brook. It Falls at the end of a boardwalk trail.

We ventured on our hike to Fall of Song on a warm summer day. It appeared that we may have taken the long trail, however, what better way to find a gorgeous waterfall. The trail took us above a brook and up a slope for awhile before the trail evened out. The trail was not marked well, but we kept trekking, hoping to make it to the final destination.

We caught site of the waterfall long before arriving on foot, a picturesque site. We crossed a little bridge, and spent some time at the brook, giving other visitors time to pass along. Once we arrived to the edge of the waterfall we were happy to find the place to ourselves. We took our time viewing the spectacular Falls. It was grand in height, and peaceful in song. We relaxed on the boardwalk, the boys napping, as we treasured the sound of the flowing Falls. I took numerous photographs, and even attempted some videos. As you will see if you view my blog to the very end, I have still not gained any video skills since this time. However, I still decided to share this video memory, providing a clear sensory experience.

We spent a good amount of time at the Falls before heading back. We had a terrifying journey back coming face to face with a bear on the side of the trail. Shockingly the boys did not see him and a quickly turned around hustling back to the waterfall. A little panicked I found an alternate trail back to the car, realizing that there was an alternate auto road to the Falls. The gate was closed at the end, but somehow I managed to get all three of us to the other side. Definitely some good stories to add to this memorable Adventure (Rating: 4).