Author Archives: New England Nomad

About New England Nomad

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Hi I'm Wayne. Welcome to my blog. I am a true New Englander through and through. I love everything about New England. I especially love discovering new places in New England and sharing my experiences with everyone. I tend to focus on the more unique and lesser known places and things in New England on my blog. Oh yeah, and I love dogs. I always try to include at least one dog in each of my blog posts. I discovered my love of photography a couple of years ago. I know, I got a late start. Now, I photograph anything that seems out of the ordinary, interesting, beautiful and/or unique. And I have noticed how every person, place or thing I photograph has a story behind it or him or her. I don't just photograph things or people or animals. I try to get their background, history or as much information as possible to give the subject more context and meaning. It's interesting how one simple photograph can evoke so much. I am currently using a Nikon D3200 "beginner's camera." Even though there are better cameras on the market, and I will upgrade some time, I love how it functions (usually) and it has served me well. The great thing about my blog is you don't have to be from New England, or even like New England to like my blog (although I've never met anyone who doesn't). All you have to like is to see and read about new or interesting places and things. Hopefully, you'll join me on my many adventures in New England!
September 11, 2023

Salem Merry-Time Festival (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: August 19, 2023

Location: Derby Wharf, Salem, MA

Cost: Free

Parking: There are several parking lots in Salem (see below for specific parking information)

Parking in Salem

Dog Friendly: Yes

Summary: Music, vintage cars, art and a cardboard regatta were some of the highlights of this family friendly annual event

Formerly known as the Salem Maritime Festival, the Salem Merry-Time Festival has been a staple of every summer in Salem since 1988. After a short respite, the festival has been reborn as the Salem Merry Time Festival. And a merry time was had by all attendees.

This was the first maritime festival in Salem since 2020.

Melodies emanated from the tent at the wharf as a variety of musicians and singers kept the crowds entertained.

Sweet Soul Sounds sang musical gems of or influenced by the Motown era.

Meanwhile, the Fo’c’sle Four Band sang sea shanties

There were also activities for children (or the young at heart). Children made works of art based on the fish, starfish and other sea life in the waters of Salem. These are better than what I could do!

The USS Friendship was available for tours. But since it is being renovated there weren’t many photo opportunities there. I did take a few photos of the famous figurehead and some rope inside of the ship which is fully covered now for said repairs and renovations.

But the highlight of the event was the first annual (we hope) “Great Salem Cardboard Boat Regatta.” The cardboard regatta consisted of 17 boats made of cardboard, tape and a few other accessories. The designs of the boats varied from those with Nordic themes to boats with local themes.

But all of the boats showed a lot of creativity and craftspersonship

A crowd gathered along the wharf as the rowers got ready.

This fan was able to root up close for her favorite racers!

And this young fan came to the regatta in some appropriate attire for the event!

The competition was fierce as the rowers took off for the race!

While many of the boats were able to keep together and be competitive during the race, others weren’t so lucky. But, despite the sinking sensation they must have been feeling, all of the participants seem to take it in good natured ways.

Trophies were given for fast and slowest times and other notable results.

After all that hard work put into making these water crafts, they met an unseeminly end!

The ship you may have seen in the background is the Kalmar Nyckel, a Swedish ship built by the Dutch. The ship is notable for carrying Swedish settlers to North America in 1638. This, of course, is not the original, though. This replica is usually docked in Wilmington, DE. The ship was available for tours. But, unfortunately, I was only able to take photos of the exterior during this visit.

There were also some vintage cars and visitors dressed in vintage wear!

Don’t forget to go to their Vintage Lawn Party Saturday, Sep. 16.

There was also an artist working on a maritime related piece of art.

The Merry Time Festival is a dog friendly event. Gus came to the event with his shark fin harness!

To cap off the regatta, one of the officials sang a few sea shanties!

8 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in art, cardboard regatta, maritime, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Salem, vintage

September 9, 2023

Drastic Park (Windsor, CT)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: September 9, 2023

Location: Corner of Clapp Rd North, Windsor, CT Route 159 (10 minutes north of Hartford, CT or 1.5 hours southwest of Boston, MA)

Cost: Free

Parking: There is no parking lot or places to park at Drastic Park. But, you can park on the shoulder of the road on the corner of Clapp Road North.

Summary: Three sculpted monsters in the shape of dinosaurs are located on the corner of Clapp Rd North.

You don’t have to go to Universal Studios or the museum to see dinosaurs. They’re “alive and well” in Windsor, CT!

But, these dinosaurs don’t have bones, tusks or horns. The dinosaurs at Clapp Rd North are made of railroad ties, excavator buckets, air tanks, and other bits of scrap metal welded together. 

The sculptures all have names loosely based on the names of actual dinosaurs.

The first dinosaur-like creature is called Erysocialismop.

The second sculpture is called Alloliberalsaurus.

And the third sculpture in the group is called  Tuoujangocommunisaurus.

The sculptures were made by a heavy equipment contractor named Lon Pelton. Over the years, they have gone through some transformations. But, luckily, they have just been re-painted recently before my visit.

While these dinosaurs may seem friendly, don’t pet them or try to feed them! They seem to do just fine finding food on their own!

5 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , , | posted in connecticut, dinosaurs, fun, New England, photographs, photography, photos, sculptures, travel, windsor

August 25, 2023

2023 Newport Kite Festival (Brenton Point State Park, Newport, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: July, 8, 2023 (usually held the second Saturday in July)

Location: Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive, Newport, RI (1 hour south of Providence, RI or 1 hour southwest of Boston, MA)

Cost: Free

Parking: There is abundant free parking

Dog Friendly: Yes

Universally Accessible: Yes

Summary: People from all over New England and farther came to Brenton Point to fly or view the many kites at the Newport Kite Festival.

It’s a bird. It’s a plane. Oh it’s just the 2023 Newport kite festival!

Kites of all shapes, colors and meaning could be seen flying through the air at Brenton Point.

Because of its location along the coast, Brenton Point offers scenic views and the perfect conditions for flying kites.

Each year since 2006, kite fliers and fans of kites have come to Brenton Point to fly and view dozens of kites at the most southern tip of Newport, Rhode Island. But, the history of the event goes back even longer.

From 1982 until 2005, the “High Flyers Flight Co” led by Sue Moskowitz and Steve Santos, coordinated a kite flying get together. But, for unknown reasons, the event stopped in 2006. But, that did not stop kite flyers from congregating and flying their kites. For the next 2 years the kite flying events took place off and on. Then, in 2009, Kitt Kites took over the event and it has flourished since.

Now, you can see kites from all over the country and the world for that matter.

One of the other great things about this event was that people of all ages and backgrounds could participate and enjoy the kites.

There weren’t just kites at the kites festival, though. A dj, event announcer and special events.

These kids were participating in a race in which they had to pull a kite.

And, yes, even dogs like kites! Since the Newport Kite Festival is dog friendly. Buck, an 11 week old Blue Heel terrier, decided to stop by!

13 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in Brenton Point, kites, New England, Newport, Newport Kite Festival, photographs, photography, photos, Rhode Island

August 22, 2023

Umbrella Sky Newport (Newport, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: July 8, 2023

Location: Brick Market Place, 221 Goddard Row, Newport, RI (about 30 minutes southwest of Providence, RI or 1.5 hours from Boston, MA)

Cost: Free

Parking: There are several parking lots in the area. I parked at the lot Brickmarket parking lot at 222 Goddard Row.

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Website: Umbrella Sky Newport

Summary: Over 500 colorful umbrellas can be found floating in the air in Newport, RI! The art display will be up until Oct. 5.

No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. Those fuchsia, blue, yellow, green, and orange umbrellas are indeed “floating” in the sky of Newport, Rhode Island. At least they are in the Brickmarket area of Newport.

This art display and similar art displays have been installed in places like Miami, Florida, New York City and even the Middle East! But, this is the first time this particular art display has appeared in New England.

The upside to this art display by Artscape is you can view it regardless of the weather since the canopy of umbrellas are sure to keep you dry. Additionally, there are events such as karaoke, local musical events and a kid’s bash that are planned to take place during the Saturdays and Sundays while the umbrellas are still there.

The umbrellas are most vibrant when the sun is out . The sun rays hitting the umbrellas really do make the colors pop. When I originally arrived at the umbrella display, it was overcast. So, I drove around Rhode Island and photographed some other things and came back a few hours later. The sun was out and there was a noticeable difference when I returned for the second round of photos.

The first photo was taken during my first visit.

This photo was taken during my second visit.

One of the great things for me was being able to take photos from so many different angles. In fact, I took some of them lying on the ground!

Don’t wait too long to see these umbrellas! They will only be there until Oct. 5.

Below is a video that shows what it’s like to walk through this art display!

10 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , , | posted in New England, Newport, photographs, photography, photos, Rhode Island, umbrella

August 16, 2023

2023 Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail (Yarmouth, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: July 21, 2023

Location: Yarmouth, MA

Cost: Free

Parking: Free parking is available at or near each of the locations of the sand sculptures

Universally Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Summary: 32 sand sculptures are located throughout the town of Yarmouth, MA. They will be up until mid-Oct, 2023.

Website: Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Taril

Beaches aren’t the only place to find sand sculptures! Thirty two sand sculptures have been sculpted and set up throughout the city of Yarmouth, MA.

FitzySnowman has sculpted all of the sand sculptures all with a summer, beach or Cape Cod feel to them.

Since it has rained so much, some of the sand sculptures were damaged. But, most of the sculptures held up ok. Only two of the sand sculptures were damaged beyond recognition. Which isn’t too bad considering all of the rain we had been getting in June. Although you can visit them in any order, I will list the sand sculptures in the order I visited them. The first, of course, is located at the Visitor Center on Route 6.

Visitor Center, Route 6

Spongebob and Patrick seem to be popular characters for the sand sculptures each year.

Just Picked Gifts – 13 Willow St, Yarmouth Port

The Cooperative Bank Of Cape Cod – 121 Route 6A, Yarmouth Port. I’ve heard of a safe cracker. But, a squid cracker? That’s a first!

Voila! Designs By Frederique – 169 Main St #6A, Yarmouth Port. As you can see by this photo and other photos of the sand sculptures, the backgrounds and accessories added to the sand sculptures really make the sculptures stand out! And at least one of the sand sculptures is lit up during the evening.

Strawberry Lane, Yarmouth Port

Winslow Crocker House – 250 Route 6A, Old King’s Highway, Yarmouth Port

Bass River Rod & Gun Club – 620 Route 6A, Yarmouth Port

Kinlin Grover – 927 Route 6A, Yarmouth Port. Some of the businesses always have the same kind of sculptures each year. This particular real estate company always has a sand castle on their property. I like this. It gives some routine and stability in an otherwise at times unstable world.

Taylor Bray Farm – 108 Bray Farm Rd North Yarmouth Port

When you do stop this sand sculpture make sure to stop by the farm and check out the animals on the farm!

Bay Berry Golf Course – 635 W Yarmouth Rd, W. Yarmouth

Cape Cod 5 – 514 Station Ave, S. Yarmouth

Today Real Estate – 487 Station Ave, S. Yarmouth – This sand sculpture was demolished due to the elements.

Dunkin’ Donuts – 436 Station Ave, S. Yarmouth

Rockland Trust Bank – 428 Station Ave, S. Yarmouth

Bass River Golf Course – 62 Highbank Rd, S. Yarmouth

Cape Cod Creamery – 1199 Route 28, S. Yarmouth

Yarmouth Town Hall – 1146 Route 28, S. Yarmouth

Dunkin’ Donuts – 1050 Route 28, S. Yarmouth

Seafood Sam’s – 1006 Route 28, S. Yarmouth. This sand sculpture makes me hungry since this is usually the half way point where we take a break and have lunch!

Cand Co – 975 Route 28, S. Yarmouth

The Pancake Man – 952 Route 28, S. Yarmouth

John G Sears & Son – 221 Old Main St, S. Yarmouth

Freebird Motor Lodge – 553 Route 28, w. Yarmouth

Holiday Vacation Condominiums – 488 Main St, W. Yarmouth

Route 28 Visitor Center – 424 Route 28, W. Yarmouth

Laer Realty Partners – 411 Route 28, W. Yarmouth

Bellew Tire & Marble – 280 Main St, Yarmouth

Sunbird Cape Cod Resort – 216 Main St, W. Yarmouth

The Cove at Yarmouth – 183 Main St, W. Yarmouth

Cape Sands Inn – 149 Main St Route 28, W. Yarmouth

Putters Paradise Mini Golf – 119 Route 28, W. Yarmouth

The sand sculpture at Hampton Inn & Suites – 99 Main St Route 28, W. Yarmouth was too damaged by the elements to be photographed

While the sand sculpture trail is a fun, family friendly experience, please do keep in mind it does require traveling through the Cape during peak season! I always figure it will take a “few hours” and yet after 4 hours I am still photographing sand sculptures. But, if you’re just driving by or looking at them it should be quicker than that.

8 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in cape cod, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, sand sculptures, Yarmouth

July 30, 2023

Green Animals Topiary Garden 2023 (Portsmouth, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: July 24, 2023

Location: 380 Corys Ln, POrtsmouth, RI (30 mins south of Providence, RI and 1 hour southwest of Boston, MA)

Cost: $25 for adults, $10 for children 6-12, children under 6 get in free (you can also purchase combo tickets for tours of the mansions in Newport, RI, on their website). Customers are encouraged to purchase tickets for timed entry on their website. (special rates are available for groups of 10 or more, details are on their website)

Parking: There are about 50 free parking spots located across from the topiary (see below for additional info about parking)

All visitor parking for Green Animals is in the St. Philomena School parking lot. The only entrance to Green Animals is from the St. Philomena parking lot from June 17 – August 27. There will be no access to enter the property from the Green Animals parking lot.

Universally Accessible: No

Dog Friendly: No

Website: Green Animals Topiary Garden

Summary: Dozens of carefully clipped green sculpted shapes are scattered around the 7 acre topiary. There is also a special exhibit by Sean Kenney made out of Lego Bricks. Audio self guided tours are also available.

The numerous parks, sanctuaries and zoos in Rhode Island aren’t the only places in the Ocean State to see animals.

While they may not be as cuddly or cute, the animals at the Rhode Island Green Animals Topiary are just as impressive. The well kept topiary includes a variety of animals such as an elephant, giraffe and a human being.

But, there are so many more animals in this well kept exhibit.

But not all of the greenery is sculpted into animals. They were also trimmed into an airplane, heart and arch.

The 7 acre topiary also has pretty flowers and beautiful views.

As if this wasn’t fun enough, there is also a special exhibit by Sean Kenney. The Sean Kenney Nature Connects is a special exhibit of several art sculptures entirely made of Lego Bricks.

Each exhibit has a sign with information about each animal. The sculptures are listed below. Due to the dimensions and textures of the Lego bricks, the images look better in their full image size. You may want to look at the in full size or zoom in to see them better.

Peacock

Bird Bath (yes those pesky critters use even fake bird baths!)

Buck

Fawn and Doe

Hummingbird

Butterfly

Ant Hill. This cute display has holes for people to stick their heads into while they pose for photos.

Turtle

Rose

Dragonfly

Spider (I’m still having nightmares about this one!)

Wheelbarrow and gardener

Bumble Bee

Remember, these are made entirely out of Lego bricks! I had to keep reminding myself of this as I photographed each one. Also, if you do get lost or can’t keep track of where the Lego brick sculptures are there signs to help point you in the correct directions!

While the topiary is scheduled to remain open until October 1, the Nature Connects exhibit will only be at the topiary through September 10. Just make sure to not step on any of the Legos when you visit!

11 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , | posted in New England, photographs, photography, photos, Rhode Island, topiary

July 22, 2023

Donald F Haviland Memorial (Webb Park, Weymouth, MA)

By New England Nomad

Location: Webb Park, Weymouth, MA

Date Of Visit: July, 2023

We all consider ourselves brave, fearless and calm under pressure. But, what would we really do when faced with a life or death scenario? In all likelihood, we would fall short of our expectations.

Commander Donald F Haviland faced this very same scenario on February 23, 1945. He, however, made a much different decision.

While transporting Norwegian refugees from Russia on the SS Henry Bacon, the ship Haviland was on encountered a heavy gale. The ship had to be taken out of Convoy RA 64 to make repairs from the damage resulting from the gale. This left the SS Henry Bacon vulnerable and German air fighters took advantage. Twenty three German planes attacked the SS Henry Bacon. Despite the USS Henry Bacon shooting down several planes and warding off most of the attackers, the ship did sustain one hit which made the USS Henry Bacon founder.

As the ship was sinking, it was determined there was not enough life boats for all the refugees and personnel. Upon hearing this information, Chief Engineer Haviland, he forfeited his life boat so that a younger man could take his place on in the life boat. Haviland went down with the ship.

Haviland earned the Merchant Marine Distinguished Service Medal posthumously for his selfless act of heroism.

This memorial always gives me pause when I visit Webb Memorial State Park. What would we do in this situation? Would we have the same brave and selfless spirit? Likely no. But, Haviland and people of his ilk are a different breed. The valor he displayed is truly remarkable.

Each Fourth of July and other days of remembrance, flowers, flags, shells, rocks and other displays of tribute are left at Haviland’s memorial.

A photo of Haviland was also placed upon the memorial during my visit.

Admiral Emory Scott Land put it best in regards to Haviland’s sacrifice when he stated Haviland’s “unselfish action in sacrificing his life to save a shipmate constitutes a degree of heroism in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Merchant Marine.”

8 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , | posted in Massachusetts, memorial, New England, photographs, photography, Uncategorized, Webb Memorial State Park, Weymouth

July 11, 2023

Original Dunkin’ Donuts (Quincy, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: July 8, 2023

Location: 543 Southern Artery, Quincy, MA

You can’t throw a rock, or a bagel for that matter, in Massachusetts without hitting a Dunkin Donuts. But, among all of these coffee shops, there’s a special one in Quincy, MA.

Like many successful companies, the Dunkin’ Donuts franchise had humble beginnings.

The origins of what would become Dunkin’ Donuts began during World War II when a shipyard worker decided to provide food options for his co-workers. William Rosenberg, a worker at the Fore River Shipyard based on the Quincy and Weymouth areas, noticed there weren’t many eating options for his coworkers and himself at the time. While this is far from the case now, Quincy did not have a wide variety of dining options.

Initially, William opened the “Industrial Luncheon Services” with a $1,000 loan and another $1,500 start up money. “Industrial Luncheon Services” was a a food truck that sold sandwiches, coffee, doughnuts, and other snacks.

William noticed that at least 50% of the food and drinks he sold were doughnuts and coffee. So, William decided to start a food business that focused on these foods and renamed his business “Open Kettle.”

Eventually, in 1950, William would open a brick and mortar store at its current location, 543 Southern Artery. After noticing many of his customers dunked their doughnuts in their coffee, William changed the name of his shop to “Dunkin’ Donuts.”

While many of the Dunkin’ Donuts coffee shops updated their decor and designs, the Dunkin’ Donuts on Southern Artery went in another direction. In December, 2011, the shop was “retro-renovated” to honor its original look.

From the original outside design to the indoor decor, the shop on Southern Artery transformed to a coffee shop from back in time.

The interior of the Dunkin’ Donuts has a mural of a photo of the original Dunkin Donuts and a display of the various logos the company has used over the years.

While the logos, design, dining options and decor may have changed at many of the coffee shops, one things remain clear; New Englanders still love their Dunkin’ Donuts.

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12 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in Dunkin; Donuts, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, quincy

July 2, 2023

New Hampshire Marine Memorial (Hampton Beach, Hampton, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits:

Location: Hampton Beach,

Parking:

Cost: Free

New England has a long history of sea faring servicemen and women. Tragically, some of these people were lost to the sea.

These people may have been lost but they are not forgotten. Certainly not by the people of Hampton, New Hampshire or the people who visit the New Hampshire Marine Memorial.

Each year, thousands of people take selfies, admire the beauty of the statue or sit on the bench at the memorial.

I took these photos of the memorial on two different days. The first set of photos were taking after I took photos of the sand sculptures from this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic at Hampton Beach and the second set were taken on June 25. Since there are usually crowds there, I went early to avoid the crowds and to get the photos with the serene morning light.

Dedicated to all New Hampshire servicepersons lost at sea due to warfare, the New Hampshire Marine Memorial is a mid-sized statue of New England granite on a tiered granite base. A woman holding a wreath casts her gaze along the water.

Inscribed on the upper (middle) step is the phrase BREATHE SOFT, YE WINDS, YE WAVES IN SILENCE REST. These words are from a poem by John Gay, written in 1714, in his “An Epistle to a Lady.” 

Originally, 248 names in 10 rows were added to the back of the memorial with the state seal at each end. Sadly, over time, names have been added. The last name added was on Aug 6, 2022 when Marine Cpl. Jonathan Currier’s name was added to the monument. The 21 year old Cpl. Currier, from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, went overboard in the Sulu Sea off the Philippine coast on Aug. 9, 2018.

What few people may know is the memorial didn’t start out as a memorial. What would become one of the most recognizable memorials in New Hampshire, if not New England, originally began as a grave marker.

William E. Downs of Manchester, NH, had inquired see if the federal government would furnish a grave marker for his son, Captain William D Downs, who was buried at sea May 25, 1945. Little did he know at the time his request would result in such a well known memorial for all service people lost at sea. The memorial would go on to become a memorial to all New Hampshire sons and daughters lost or buried at sea during World War II. In fact, it would go on to remember those lost after World War II.

However, the quest to get the memorial built was a long one. Initially, Downs’ request to have a grave marker built was denied. But Downs did not give up. After many proposals, such as placing the memorial at “Pulpit Rock” at Rye Beach and, after that proposal fell through, “Ragged Neck” at Rye Harbor, Downs was able to gain the support of a memorial from Governor Sherman Adams in 1950. Eventually, the then Governor Hugh Gregg agreed to have the memorial built at Hampton Beach. The statue was dedicated on May 30, 1957 (fittingly Memorial Day). On Veterans Day, 1970, the American Legion Post 35 of the Hamptons, dedicated two flag poles at the monument, which fly the American and state flags.

As you can tell by the events and actions outlined below, there were a lot of people involved in the creation of this memorial.

A design by Concord (NH) resident Alice E. Cosgrove was approved for the 12 foot statue.

Cambridge, Massachusetts sculptor, Teodors Uzarins, was commissioned to model the life-size statue in clay at the Caproni Galleries in Boston. Uzarins, worked closely with Alice, to produce the features that everyone who has seen it remembers.

A 24-ton granite block from Swenson’s Granite Quarries of Concord to sculpt the memorial. That 24 ton granite block was then shipped to Barre, Vermont where it was shaped. It was then sent to Hampton after 17 tons of that block had been removed by Italian artisan, Vincenzo Andreani of Marr and Gordon, Inc., Granite Works. Andreani used a plaster cast of the lady in the memorial for point-by-point measurements.

All of this hard work paid off, as the memorial is not only a respectful tribute to those who have served the country honorably. It is also one of the most recognizable sculptures in New Hampshire.

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9 Comments   |  tags: , , , , , , | posted in Hampton Beach, Hampton, NH, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, sculpture

July 2, 2023

Spring 2023

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: Spring, 2023

Locations: All over New England

Since I often visit many locations that I have already posted about previously, I don’t share these photos on my blog. So, I thought I should share some of the photos I post on Facebook from my Spring adventures on here.

As you can see, there are lots of photo opportunities during this season!

Webb Park (Weymouth, MA)

Because of its proximity to my residence and its beautiful views, I often visit Webb Park in Weymouth, MA, particularly during sunset.

Sometimes you’ll have an unexpected visitor

But, Webb Park isn’t just a great place to visit for sunset photos. There can also be some incredible clouds there. As I was taking these photos, all I could think about was how the clouds looked like waves. This strange weather is just an example of the unpredictable and crazy weather we’ve been having around here. There may be fiery skies and warm temperatures one evening and then cold and stormy skies another evening. Just like they say about New England weather. You don’t like it? Wait another 15 minutes!

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Topsfield, MA)

Another one of my favorite haunts that I visit at least once a month regardless of the temperature or conditions is Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield, MA. There is a wide variety of wildlife there and the colors, regardless of the season, are stunning! And, of course, it was ducking season! In first photo in the second ro, the mam goose is keeping her babies warm.

But the highlight of my visit this spring was the Barred Owl (Strix Varia) I saw in May.

Bare Cove Park (Hingham, MA)

Another one of my favorite parks to visit is Bare Cove Park in Hingham, MA

There are pretty sunsets and a variety of wildlife there.

Stanley Park (westfield, MA)

Stanley Park in Westfield, MA, is another one of my favorite places!

There are also lots of wildlife at this park.

Winter Island Light (Salem, MA)

And, of course, I took a trip to my favorite lighthouse, Winter Island Light in April. The day started out dreary with a beautiful blue cloud covering. Then, the clouds broke and the sun made some beautiful colors!

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9 Comments | posted in Massachusetts, nature, New England, new hampshire, spring, Webb Memorial State Park