Category Archives: dog

February 25, 2019

Loop (Boston, MA)

By New England Nomad

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Date Of Visit: January 28, 2019

Location: 60 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA

Cost: Free

Hours: 7:00am-10:00pm.
Dates of exhibit January 11th – February 17th

Parking:

Parking can be found at the heated One Seaport Garage, located at 75 Sleep Street, Boston, MA 02210

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Website: The Loop

Summary: A light display that also features short “films” on a loop. This exhibit is no longer on display.

The upside to the cold, dark winter nights are the exhibits, particularly illuminated exhibits, that are scattered throughout the city. Lights and fun, interactive exhibits seem to bring a little more cheer to what may seem like long, cold, never ending winters. This is the concept of the Bright Lights For Winter Nights season long festivities.

As a new-ish photographer, I like to share my experiences and observations with other photogs. In this vein, I wanted to share my night time photography experiences.

One obstacle I have learned to overcome or at least improve in is night time photography. I have noted through my experiences that night time photographs is much more pretty than any daytime photographs, except for the golden hour of course.

I used to hate night time photography. Sunset and post sunset light used to mean it was time to pack up and go home. Through experience, lessons from books and videos and classes, I have learned to not only appreciate night time photography, I actually prefer it. In fact, in a recent discussion about photography I have described daytime photography, particularly mid day photography, as being like taking half a photo. Displays, buildings and even nature all take on a different look when they are lit up at night. It’s almost like photographing a completely different image. I love it, even if it means having to lug around my tripod. I still struggle with it at times. More often than not my struggles actually stem from the tripod itself. At times, the tripod breaks, I forgot to tighten a screw on the tripod or some other issue arises. Perhaps you can relate to my struggles. But, unless it’s a very low light situation or very late at night, I rarely have to use the tripod. In fact, because of all of the lighting fixtures at the Loop, I didn’t have to use the tripod to photograph The Loop. The biggest tip I can give about low light photography is to not be afraid to boost the ISO (I always thought this was a no-no until recently). You can always “fix” it in post production with your noise reduction tool if you use Lightroom.

Now, back to the display, one of the first exhibits of the Bright Lights Winter Nights display was The Loop. Comprised of six illuminated, moving cylinders which play music and animations, the Loop is an interactive exhibit that allows you to watch film strip like shows. While sitting in the loop exhibits, the person sitting can pull a handlebar which moves the images and creates an animated story. Music and flickering lights complement the images.

The timed lights on the loops change in color and brightness of the loops. The loops are very pretty, particularly during the dusk and the low light times of day. In fact, if you only saw the lights you may mistake them as simply pretty lights. The decorative lights on the trees and hang on the strings in the background help to accentuate the beauty of the illuminated loops.

The images inside of the loop are said to be based on fairy tales. When used correctly, the images play out a story that look seamless.

Dogs are welcome to view the exhibits. Jack, a 12 year old Wheaton Terrier, and his mom stopped by to check out the Loop.

Below are two videos the Loop display. The first video is a walk through of the exhibit. The second video is a video of the images that show as you pull the handlebar on the loop. It’ was very cold, naturally it is Boston during winter, so there weren’t many people there to film the loop as I used. So, I managed this on my own. Using one hand to hold the camera and one hand to use the handlebar was no easy task. But, I tried my best. I hope you enjoy.

6 Comments | tags: Boston, dog, lights, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, The Loop | posted in Boston, dog, lights, Massachusetts, New England, Uncategorized

September 21, 2018

Faneuil Hall Marketplace (Boston, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: August 18 & 19, 2018

Location: Faneuil Hall, Congress St, Boston, MA

Hours:

Mon – Thurs:
10 am – 9 pm
10 am – 7 pm (Winter)
Fri – Sat:
10 am – 9 pm
Sun:
11 am – 7 pm
Noon – 6 pm (Winter)

Cost: Free

Parking:

There are several parking garages in the area and some street parking. There are also several routes to take on the MBTA to get there. Parking, transportation and driving directions can be found here.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: shopping, family friendly activities, dining, statues, historical

Website: Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Fall has descended upon New England. Big time. It seemed like it was just last week that I was sweating in 80 degree weather. Probably because it was. Yes fall seems to come with a thud. But, it also means sweater weather and foliage. So, it’s a fair trade off as far as I’m concerned.

In an attempt to play catch up before the very busy fall season, I am trying to post as many photo shoots from the summer as I transition into fall.

This particular photo shoot was from Faneuil Hall, the most visited marketplace in Boston. It is a mix of art, history, entertainment, commerce and more.

Faneuil Hall has a long and storied history. Since 1743, Faneuil Hall has served as a market and meeting place. One of the more famous stops on Boston’s Freedom Trail, it has been called the “Cradle Of Liberty.”

Faneuil Hall has two major buildings at the sight. The first one, Faneuil Hall Marketplace mostly sells wares from a variety of top name shops.

Located behind Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market serves up a variety of foods. From Thai to tacos, Quincy Market has pretty much any type of food you can imagine. I prefer Quincy Market naturally.

Fanueil Hall Marketplace has a variety of statues on their premises. One of the first statues you may see depending on which way you travel to the marketplace is the statue of former mayor Kevin Hagan White.

One of the lesser known, or at least less talked about mayors of Boston, Kevin White served as mayor during a pivotal time in Boston’s history. The 51st mayor of Boston, Kevin White may be one of the least talked about mayors (particularly in a positive sense), yet he has a very interesting story and he governed Boston during a very tumultuous time. Elected at the age of 38, Mayor White would hold office from 1968 until 1984 (so much for term limits). During his time as mayor, White would govern during the racially divisive era of school busing. Tensions about his handling of busing and race relations in the city during this time so much that his critics derisively called him, “Kevin Black.” Race relations have always been a blemish on our past and Mayor White had his difficulties in this realm. But, he also governed during a time of immense growth and development for the city. The fact that White isn’t well known positively or negatively shows he was a steady hand during a difficult time.

A bronze statue was dedicated to Mayor White on November 1, 2006. The statue, sculpted by Pablo Eduardo, shows Kevin White walking down the street.

The over-sized statue of White is meant to suggest he was a “larger than life” mayor. He does have some pretty big shoes to fill.

There are quotes from Mayor White’s inaugurations inscribed on the grounds.

There are other statues at Faneuil Hall. In front of Faneuil Hall, at the entrance to the marketplace is a statue of politician and activist Samuel Adams.

The bronze statue was sculpted by Miss Ann Whitney in 1876 (although it was erected initially in 1880).

There are several inscriptions on each of the four panels that read as follows: ‘Samuel Adams 1722-1803 – A Patriot – He organized the Revolution, and signed the Declaration of Independence. Governor – A True Leader of the People. Erected A. D. 1880, from a fund bequeathed to the city of Boston by Jonathan Phillips. A statesman, incorruptible and fearless.’

The pedestal for the bronze statue is ten feet high. The statue sits upon a polished Quincy granite base and cap and a lower nine-feet square base of unpolished Quincy Granite.

Another person who is memorialized with a statue is James Michael Curley.

In stark contrast to Mayor White, Mayor Michael Curley was not overlooked nor was he without his share of notoriety. Curley was re-elected while under indictment for mail fraud which he would eventually be convicted of in 1947 (he would later receive a full pardon for this and an earlier conviction in 1904 by President Truman). He even technically remained mayor while in prison (his position was served by City Clerk John B Hynes while he was locked up).

Despite all of his escapades, Curley was a beloved mayor and was often thought of as a warrior for the working class.

Technically, these statues are across the street from Faneuil Hall Marketplace and not technically on the grounds of the marketplace.

This statue is sure to be less controversial. At least in New England.

Clutching a cigar (from his tradition of lighting a cigar when he thought his team had the game won before the final buzzer) and a book in another hand, Red Auerbach sits proudly on the walkway in Faneuil Hall Marketplace. A plaque espouses his accomplishments.

Two other Boston sports figures are memorialized at Faneuil Hall. Bronze sneakers of “Legend” Larry Bird, Hall of Fame Forward and 3 time NBA MVP for the Boston Celtics, and Bill Rodgers, a 4 time Boston Marathon winner (including 3 in a row from 1978-1980) and former American record holder for running the Boston Marathon (2:09:27 or a 4:56 average mile – not too shabby).

There are also a variety of family friendly activities at Faneuil Hall. Over the years, Fanueil Hall has transformed itself from just a shopping center and tourist hub to a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can have fun.

Each weekend during the summer they have special family friendly events such as puppet shows.

There are chess tables set up for people to test their skills. There is even a Chess Blitz Tournament for more skilled players to compete against other worthy opponents. I’m definitely not on that level.

Of course, the biggest attractions at Faneuil Hall are the stores and historical tours. Scores of stores line the cobblestone walkways. When it gets busier in the day, especially during the summer and holidays, the narrow walkways can get crowded.

With the pretty flowers and tall buildings, the best part of Faneuil Hall may be the views.

Part of Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Quincy Market is home to dozens of restaurants and food takeout establishments. There are no shops in that building. They only serve up food and beverages. There are also areas to eat your food and people watch. Signs from old businesses from that area.

There is also a piano. But, this is no ordinary piano. It is a piano from the Play Me I’m Yours piano playing program from 2016. As an aside, I sometimes cringe when I look at my older posts. I didn’t use photoshop and I posted way too may photos of the very same thing (even more than I post in my current blog posts). But, I’ve also noticed I wrote more than I do now and I am trying to add more commentary, especially as a way to include facts and context to the photos.

During my visit there was an exhibit of old colonial style clothing and rifles. There are a lot of these types of exhibits, particularly during the summer and patriotic holidays.

Fanueil Hall is chock full of history. One could post a series of blog posts aboutthe history of the buildings and the area and still not do it justice. One nugget I am aware of is about a grasshopper. Specifically, this grasshopper.

There are many stories about this grasshopper weathervane. One tour guide mentioned it played a role in identifying patriots rather than loyalists.

Another story holds that that Shem Drowne, a wealthy merchant who had been discouraged by his many failures in colonial New England, was inspired by a grasshopper. Contemplating his losses and failures, Drowne laid down in a field where he saw a boy chasing a grasshopper. He and the boy became friends and when he later met the boy’s parents they adopted him thus enabling him to live a more prosperous life. The grasshopper was meant to commemorate a turning point in his life. The truth may be much less interesting and exciting.

According to this article, the grasshopper simply was a sign of commerce. Since Faneuil Hall Marketplace was on the shore (the area has changed a but over the years) and it was visible to ships coming ashore it gave a clear signal they were open for business. I think this is most likely the true story behind the grasshopper.

Dogs are also welcome at Faneuil Hall Marketplace.

This cutie had her eyelashes done for her trip to the marketplace. You might be able to see her lashes better in the second photo.

Below is a video of a quick walk-through of Quincy Market. The foods smell as good as they look!

There are also lots of entertainers and shows at Faneuil Hall during the warmer seasons. The Flying Hawaiian Show is one of these shows. She is amazingly talented and such a great entertainer!

4 Comments | tags: Boston, dog, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Historical, history, Massachusetts, New England, Photography, photos | posted in Boston, dog, historical, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

September 1, 2018

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Part II (Boston, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: August 12, 13, 18, 19, 2018

Location: Various locations in Boston, MA

Hours: Open daily, 7 a.m. until 11 p.m.

Cost: Free

Parking: there is some street parking available at some parts of the Greenway (particularly on Atlantic Ave) and several parking garages in the area. There are also several MBTA train stations within walking distance to the Greenway such as South Station

Trail Size/Difficulty: 15 acres, 1.5 miles/easy

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: flowers,scenic,dog friendly, historic

Websites: Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Overview

Good Historical Overview Of The Greenway Project

In my first blog post of the Rose Kennedy Greenway, I posted photos of some of the beautiful flowers and plants on the Greenway. In this installment, I will include photos of the beautiful artwork on the Greenway.

There are several art exhibits on the Greenway. I figured I would post them in the order they appear on the Greenway.

The first part of the Greenway in this post is at Chinatown near the Lincoln Street Triangle.

Year Of The Dog by Rosa Puno is a nod to the current year of the dog in the Chinese zodiac calendar. The exhibit has spinning cube-like blocks made of wood on a steel structure that has Chinese words with their translations and excerpts from people in the neighborhood that Rosa collected from people in the neighborhood.

This part of the Greenway has other attractions such as the human-made waterfall and stream and a sitting area where people can spend time together, play games or just play in the water. Ahh, to be young again.

The next work of art is a mural that is painted on a building that sits on Atlantic Ave. The building this mural is changed annually. Each year, usually in the spring, a new mural is painted by a different artist.

The 70’x76′ mural on the building at Dewey Square is called Carving Out Fresh Options. It was painted by Shara Hughes.

I was fortunate enough to see the artist working on her mural while I was walking to work in May.

And, of course, the finished product. During the summer, people lay out on towels or on chairs on the lawn in front of the Greenway which can make photographing it without obstructions challenging.

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There also are historical markers on the Greenway. Two remnants of the old raised Central Artery highway that once carried traffic over this area.

One of the beams from the original Central Artery is located the building with the mural above. It is located on Congress and Purchase Streets which is easy to remember by the axiom “people purchase congress.” Sad but true. It is easy to miss as I have probably walked past it hundreds of times but never gave it a second thought until I wrote this post.

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A plaque on the beam gives a brief history of the construction of the Central Artery project (built between 1951 and 1959) and fun facts (well they’re facts) such as the number of vehicles which used the highway when it was first built (75,000 vehicles) to the number of vehicles that used it in 1990 when the “Big Dig” began to be planned (200,000 vehicles).

There is another beam from the Central Artery located on Surface Road located on the edge of Faneuil Hall.

Rumor has it there may be another one on Clinton Street. But, I couldn’t find it.

Located across from the first steel beam from the Central Artery is Balancing Act by Aakash Nihalani.

The display is broken into two works, Balancing Act I and Balancing Act II.

Balancing Act I represents a tower of six cubes which appear to fall over as the middle one is pulled out of alignment.

Balancing Act II shows blocks which are precariously piled up and appear to be ready to collapse. I think we all can related to this apt description of our everyday lives.

The works almost seem unreal. It’s as though they were a mirage or photo shopped into the photo (I swear I didn’t). Akash just knows how to use colors and materials.

Way Of The Woods by Daniel Ibanez and Margen-Lab is a tribute to the North American landscapes. The nine logs are said to transform into contemporary interpretations of these raw natural materials.

The next work of art is an illuminated tunnel-like structure made by Luftwerk called Transition.

It looks a lot more impressive during the evening hours.

Harbor Fog by Ross MIller is an interactive sculpture. As a person or body comes closer to it it makes noises and generates fog.

The next work of art located on the Greenway is called GLOW. GLOW is a collection of old neon signs that once illuminated the Massachusetts skies. The signs are the collection of Lynn and Dave Waller. Each sign is erected on a concrete block with the name of the city or town it once stood. The signs are illuminated all day and night, during park hours. But, as you can see by the photos, they look much prettier during the evening.

The Siesta Motel on Route 1 North, Saugus, MA, circa 1950 sign looks cool enough during the day, particularly during an overcast day.

But, it looks much nicer during the evening.

Unfortunately, the lights for the Fontaine’s Restaurant, VFE Parkway, West Roxbury, MA, circa 1952 (I actually ate breakfast there once…after the neon sign was installed wise acres) were not working when I went to visit it during the day and evening.

European Restaurant, 218 Hanover Street, Boston, 1970.

The remaining signs were all taken during the evening hours to highlight their colorful artwork.

Bay State Auto Spring, 83 Hampden St, Roxbury, MA, circa 1965

The neon sign for Cycle Center, Natick, MA, 1956 is one of my favorites. It lights up and changes colors as the rider pedals.

General Electric Radio, 240 Blue Hill Ave, Roxbury, MA, circa 1925

Flying Yankee Restaurant, Route 20 and Route 12, Auburn, MA, circa 1953.

State Line Potato Chips, Route 20, Wilbraham, MA, c. 1950s

There is also a memorial to the victims of the Armenian genocide as well as the Armenian immigrants and immigrants of all backgrounds that came to the United States and settled in the Boston area.

The Armenian Heritage Park has a maze for people to walk that leads a fountain at the center of the circular path. Words like science and commerce have been etched in the paths. A plaque near a bench at the park states the park is dedicated to those suffered to preserve the Armenian heritage.

The Abstract Sculpture honors the victims of the Armenian genocide and victims of all genocides as well as our open shores.

The inscription on the sculpture reads:

“Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have offered hope and refuge for immigrants seeking to begin new lives. The park is a gift to the people of the Commonwealth and the City of Boston from the Armenian-American community of Massachusetts. This sculpture is offered in honor of the one and one half million victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923. May it stand in remembrance of all genocides that have followed, and celebrate the diversity of the communities that have re-formed in the safety of these shores.”

There is also a statue dedicated to Tony DeMarco. Who is Tony DeMarco? Don’t say that too close to the North End of Boston.

Tony DeMarco is a former World Welterweight Champion who grew up in the North End section of Boston, MA. Despite winning the Welterweight title, the Sicilian born boxer was best known for his slug fests with Carmen Basilio. He would lose both fights but fought valiantly in both matches.

Gelato, a 4 month old mixed breed dog, also enjoyed the art work on the Greenway.

Thank you all for stopping by and reading. In my upcoming third and final installment of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, I will be focusing on some of the entertainment on the Greenway!

Sometimes it seems like your phone’s camera takes better photos then your camera, especially during the evening when you don’t have your tripod. Click on the link below to access my Facebook page and view more night time photos and videos from the Greenway. And give the page a “like” while you’re at it!

New England Nomad on Facebook

4 Comments | tags: art, Boston, dog, Massachusetts, mural, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, statues | posted in art, Boston, dog, historical, history, Massachusetts, mural, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

June 23, 2018

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Clock (Marina Bay, Quincy, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 17, 2018

Location: 308 Victory Rd, Marina Bay, Quincy, MA

Cost: Free

Parking: There is street parking and a big parking lot located across the street

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Website: Vietnam Veterans Memorial Clock Tower

Once the site of a military training base, Marina Bay in Quincy, MA, is the perfect place for a military tribute.

The clock tower, which was dedicated in 1987, stands 85 feet tall. The base of the tower, which is dedicated to the men of Quincy who died as a result of the war in Vietnam, is 16 feet by 16 feet. The tower is built of brick and granite and has a gold leaf cupola. And, yes, the clock still keeps good time.

During the course of the year, the city and other organizations hold special events during important military related holidays such as Veterans Day or other noteworthy days.

Forty eight men from Quincy died either during the Vietnam War or later due to injuries they sustained from the war. The most recent name to be added was Capt. Alan Brudno. Capt. Brudno died in 2004 after suffering from PTSD which he was afflicted with after being held as a POW for 2,675 days.

A quote from President Kennedy and the names of all of the men from Quincy who passed away during or after the war are etched on the tower.

Small shops and restaurants dot the boardwalk along the bay. The views from the boardwalk located behind the tower offers pretty views of Boston and the surrounding area.

Besides the obvious sentimental value of the monument at Marina Bay, this was also sentimental for me for a very different reason.

I have spent many days and nights at Marina Bay (and not just to partake in the nightlife the area offers). I used to work in the building directly across the street from the monument.

The Marina Bay area has changed a lot since the days I spent working there. But, that’s a topic for another blog post.

There is a surprising amount of wildlife and animal habitat in the area. Seals are often found in the bay during the winter and I vaguely remember avoiding a turkey and deer (before they began developing he area) on my way to work in the past.

I did see this little critter during my photo shoot.

I also saw Sassy, a 12 year old mixed breed dog, during my visit.

14 Comments | tags: clock tower, dog, Massachusetts, monument, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, quincy, veterans, Vietnam, Vietnam War | posted in clock tower, dog, Massachusetts, monument, New England, photographs, photography, photos, quincy, Uncategorized

May 26, 2018

Chicopee Memorial State Park (Chicopee, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: May 26, 2018

Location: 570 Burnett Rd., Chicopee, MA

Cost: MA residents: $8, Non-MA Vehicles: $15 (seasonal passes are also available – info on seasonal passes can be found here)

Hours:

Memorial Day – Labor Day

Sunday – Saturday:
9:00 am-7:00 pm

Labor Day – Memorial Day (weather dependent)

Sunday – Saturday:
8:00 am-4:00 pm

Parking: There are several parking areas that can accommodate roughly a few hundred cars. Parking does fill up quickly during summer weekend days.

Handicappped Accessible: Yes, the beach is accessible to all. But, some trails may not be accessible.

Dog Friendly: Yes

Park Size/Trail Difficulty: 562 acres/Easy to Slightly Moderate difficulty

Tip(s):

Leave early (at least on warm days) – there was a line of cars waiting to get in when we arrived at 8:55 (the park opened at 9)

Fun Facts:

Chicopee State Memorial Park was formerly known as the Cooley Brook Reservoir and Watershed
The park was the site of reservoirs built in 1896, 1912 and 1926 to provide water for the city of Chicopee
“Chicopee” is a word originating in the Algonquian languages of eastern North America meaning “violent waters”

Fitbit Stats: 2.5 miles hiked, 433 calories burned, 5,333 steps

Highlights: beach, trails for hiking, running and cycling, wildlife, Vietnam memorial, fishing, picnic tables, pretty landscapes, sites for barbecuing, cross country skiing and snow shoeing during the winter (or more like fall, winter and spring in New England)

Website: Chicopee Memorial State Park

Trail Map: Chicopee Memorial State Park Trail Map

The main attraction for most visitors is the 25 acre pond that serves as a beach, restricted fishing area and area for dogs to play and swim in.

One visitor who was fishing with his grandson told me they caught kippers (a whole herring) and a large mouth bass.

The beach is the most popular part of the beach. There were lifeguards on duty (seasonally). While I was there, the little ones were busying themselves with a game of “Marco Polo.”

The views of the pond are pretty spectacular.

The paved trails, which are ideal for some cyclists and runners, are easy to slightly moderately difficult in some areas. They are manageable for most people of all age groups. For the more daring, there are some unpaved side trails to explore.

During our hike, I encountered a variety of wildlife. From the small minnows, robins and red winged blackbirds to the larger ducks and Canadian Geese, there is a variety of wildlife to appreciate at the park.

I also noticed this interesting web-like cocoon on a tree during my hike.

Upon further research, I found out this is a “caterpillar cocoon.” Tent caterpillars spin these large, web-like structures in trees or other plants to protect the developing larvae.

Chicopee Memorial also has picnic areas and barbecue grills. They also allow people to play music at a “reasonable volume” as Milton would say (bonus points if you get that reference).

As you exit the park, there is a memorial dedicated to all of the people from Chicopee who served and died in the Vietnam conflict. A very sober reminder during this Memorial Day weekend.

Chicopee Memorial park is a haven for dogs and dog lovers. I saw numerous dogs during our visit. One of the more popular areas for the dogs and their parents to congregate is the area just past the beach. An area is designated for the dogs to use. It is in this section of the pond that I met Maggie, a Black Lab who turns 2 tomorrow (5-27). Maggie had a fun time retrieving balls that her dad dutifully threw for her to fetch. She would often return the retrieved balls to me which was sweet.

Holly, my mom’s 11 month old Dutch Shepherd mix, loved the views from the side of the trail. I suspect you will be seeing more of her in my future photo shoots in Western MA.

As I was about to leave the park, I saw Bailey and I decided to get her photo. Bailey is an 11 month old Black Lab/Shepherd mix.

8 Comments | tags: beach, birds, Chicopee, Chicopee Memorial State Park, dogs, Massachusetts, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos | posted in birds, Chicopee, dog, Massachusetts, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

May 20, 2018

Museum Of Dog (North Adams, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: May 5, 2018

Location: 55 Union Street, North Adams, MA (about an hour and a half northwest of Springfield, MA, and hour and 15 minutes northeast of Albany, NY)

Hours: Mon – Sat : 10am to 7pm, Sun : 12pm – 6pm

Cost: $5 for adults, $1 for children

Parking: There is parking available both across the street from the museum and next to the museum (look for the stretch limos with the long dog painted on its side)

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Of course

Website: Museum Of Dog

Highlights: Art, collectibles and other memorabilia; all dog related!

Tips:

The Museum Of Dog offers a “Dancing Dog Evening Tour” performed by “in house talent” with some tours
Admission includes an optional guided tour of the museum by a knowledgeable staff member
If you have the time, make sure to stop by MASS MOCA which is only a mile or two away from the Museum Of Dog

Fun Facts:

Daisy, the dog of the founder and owner of the Museum Of Dog David York, has a exhibit dedicated to her
The Museum Of Dog holds the distinction of being the first of its kind in The Bay State

As summer approaches, what better place too whittle away the long dog days of summer than the Museum Of Dog?

The brainchild of dog lover and frequent Massachusetts vacationer David York, The Museum Of Dog has all things dog related that any dog aficionado is sure to appreciate.

The museum, which occupies what was formerly the Quinn’s Paint & Wallpaper Co, has works of art, collectibles and an assortment of other canine related items.

Statues of dogs line the shelves and floor of the museum.

This statue is a replica of Nipper, the dog used for the old logo for RCA.

But, the museum does not just limit itself to statues of dogs. There are also books, paintings,

The prized piece of art must be the portrait of Sophie; David York’s dog who he rescued many years ago.

In keeping with their roots to the area, there is an exhibit dedicated tot eh former tenants of the building, Quinn’s Paint and Wallpaper Co.

There is also an annex to the museum. The Daisy Exhibit features some of Daisy’s “art work.”

Daisy’s work is comically best described as “totale en doge.” She certainly puts all of herself into her art!

You can see her work for yourself in the”Sophie Annex.”

The annex houses many items associated with dogs such as tennis balls. There are also flowers and other types of decor in the rooms.

There are also ads for people looking to adopt dogs and art work from some of the visitors to the museum.

The rest of the annex includes an area for visitors to contribute to an exhibit of their own. Each visitor is encouraged to write their dog’s name and his or her biggest talent. The forms are then posted on a wall in the annex. Eating, sleeping, kissing, snuggling and sleeping are some of the more popular talents posted on the forms. Hey, I’m pretty good at those things too!

Parking is plentiful at the lot across from the museum, next to the museum and at the lots on Union St. There are limos located at the two main parking areas.

Somewhat ironically, there were no dogs present at the Museum Of Dog during my visit. But, they are welcome at the museum. So, make sure to take pooch along with you when you do visit!

10 Comments | tags: dogs, Massachusetts, museum, Museum Of Dog, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Western Massachusetts | posted in dog, Massachusetts, museum, New England, north adams, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized, western massachusetts

November 23, 2017

Happy Thanksgiving 2017 (Robinson Park, Agawam, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: November 23, 2017

Location: 428 North St, Feeding Hills (Agawam), MA

Hours: gates close at the park at 4 p.m. in the fall and winter. During the late spring and during the summer, the gates and trails are open from sunrise until sunset

Cost: $8 for MA vehicle, $10 for non-MA vehicle

Parking: There are about 50 parking spots in the park itself at various designated parking areas. There are also several entrances besides the actual entrance to the park (on North St and Feeding Hills Rd) where you can park for free but there are gates at these entrances and you have to walk rather than drive to the beach and fields in the park.

Time To Allot For Visit: 3 to 4 hours to hike the entire park

Size of the park: 800 acres, 5 miles of frontage on the Westfield River

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: walking trails, stream, beach, picnic area, fields, lots of wildlife, great for bikers, joggers, walkers and dogs

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

There’s something about fall, especially in New England. The hot sun and fresh crisp air is invigorating. And what better place to spend such a seasonable fall day than Robinson Park in Agawam, MA?

Going to Robinson Park on Thanksgiving has become a tradition for me. Since it is so close to my relatives and it is such a big park with so much to photograph, it’s a wonderful place for me to take my camera and get close to nature. It’s also a great way to work up an appetite for the big feast later.

If there’s one word I would use to describe Robinson Park it would be peaceful. Especially today when many of us are reflecting on what we’re thankful for and spending some quality down time with loved ones. Walking around and the park I felt as though I was the only there, partly because I probably was. At least I didn’t see anyone during most of my time there

Except for the occasional dog walker, cyclist or fishing enthusiast, it was pretty quiet at Robinson Park today.

There was a lot of bird and chipmunk activity as they get ready for winter.

There was also a sign of more life to come at the park.

It’s rare to not see someone walking their dog at Robinson Park and today was no exception. With it’s wide trails, plentiful bushes and trees and numerous side trails, it is a great place to take your pooch.

Cabo is a 2 year old Black Lab.

Papi is a 1 year old Pitt Bull Terrier mix.

Sophie is a 12 year old Mini-Datsun.

I have posted about this park previously. To view my original, in depth post about this park from last year click here.

I hope everyone has a happy, peaceful and safe holiday weekend.

9 Comments | tags: Agawam, dogs, Fall, foliage, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Robinson Park, Thanksgiving | posted in Agawam, dog, Fall, Massachusetts, photographs, photography, photos, Thanksgiving, Uncategorized

November 16, 2017

Five Days Of Foliage Day #4 – Goddard Memorial State Park (Warwick, RI)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: November 1, 2017

Location: 1095 Ives Road, Warwick, RI

Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset

Cost: Free (but there are fees to use fields, gazebos and other facilities)

Parking: There are several parking areas

Handicapped Accessible: Yes, some areas of the park are handicapped accessible

Dog Friendly: Yes

Website: Goddard Memorial State Park

Highlights: 490 acre park with a 9 hole golf course, playing fields, beach, performance center and equestrian show area with bridle trails. The foliage isn’t bad either.

To borrow a term coined by my northern Vermont neighbors, “stick season” is fast approaching. Stick season is the fall and winter transition that occurs after the leaves have fallen but also before snow has settled on the trees. This season is not just common to Vermont though.

Indicative of “stick season, I noticed many of the trees at Goddard Memorial State Park had already lost most of their leaves. Yet, there were still some decent foliage opportunities along the shore of the beach and park. The densely wooded Goddard has 62 deciduous (trees that have leaves that change) and 19 evergreen species (a species of tree that does not change color throughout the year). So, there were a variety of trees to find foliage on.

Considered one of the best parks in Rhode Island, Goddard Memorial State Park’s 490 acres of land along Greenwich Cove and Greenwich Bay in Warwick, RI.

Goddard Memorial State Park has an equestrian show area and 18 miles of bridle paths for horse riders to enjoy. While I was there I did happen upon a few riders.

I had never been to Goddard before. I only learned about the park the day before after a quick search for the best parks in Rhode Island. And the reviewers didn’t miss their mark. The best part of the park may be the variety of activities and Goddard Park also has a 9 hole golf course, 11 playing fields, a canoe launch, a beach that allows swimming and a performance center. With its pretty waterscapes, extensive hiking trails and picnic areas, Goddard is definitely a great place to take the family.

7 Comments | tags: dog, foliage, Goddard Memorial State Park, horses, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, Rhode Island, Warwick | posted in birds, dog, foliage, Goddard Memorial State Park, horses, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Rhode Island, Uncategorized, Warwick

November 13, 2017

Five Days Of Foliage Day #1 – Dorrs Pond (Livingston Park, Manchester, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date of Visit: October 22, 2017

Location: Dorrs Pond, Livingston Park, 244 Hooksett Rd, Manchester, NH

Cost: Free

Hours: open daily, sunrise to sunset

Dog Friendly: Yes

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Original Post: Dorrs Pond (Manchester, NH)

Over the past few weeks, I have been visiting some of the more colorful parts of the New England area.

I am going to post one short blog post with a photo from each place I have visited with a link to my Facebook page where you can find the additional photos from my visits. Please consider following me on Facebook!

I have dubbed this series, “Five Days Of Foliage.” I am also posting a link to the original post in the top part of the blog post.

I will post the “best” photo from my visit and post the additional photos from my visits on Facebook. I didn’t spend as much time as I usually do when I photograph a destination because I had already posted about most of them already. I just wanted to capture the highlights of the foliage season.

One of my favorite places to visit is Dorrs Pond at Livingston Park in Manchester, New Hampshire. It’s a relative easy walk or run with a mainly smooth, level one mile loop and, as an added bonus, it’s just over an hour’s drive for me. There is usually lots of activity in the pond, especially during the spring and summer, and the trees provide for pretty colors as you can see above.

One of the things I liked best about the foliage at Dorrs Pond was the various colors. The green from the pine and other trees whose leaves do not change blended beautifully with the red, brown, yellow and orange of the trees in full foliage. I managed to make it to Dorrs Pond at peak or near peak foliage conditions. I hope you enjoy.

Halloween Costumes – Part I (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visits: Throughout October

Location: Salem, MA

What would blog posts about Salem during Halloween be without photos of people in costumes? I had been holding off on posting my photos of people in their costumes until the end of the month. So, I have plenty of photos to show and I may take a few more tomorrow.

These are always my favorite posts of the Halloween season. The creativity and care people put into their costumes is very impressive. Plus, the cuteness factor was on 100 in the photos of the families in costume.

There are so many people that dress up in some really cool costumes. So, I will have to break it up into multiple parts. I will try to post every day this week so I can include them all in my posts this week.

In this first installment, I am going to begin with the performers and people who are regulars in Salem during this time of the year and a few other visitors in costume.

Along Essex St, a pedestrian walkway that is shut off to traffic during the Halloween celebrations, there are a number of people who dress up and pose for photos with visitors (donations are appreciated). Some of the characters that are represented on Essex St are the Addams Family (Pugsley couldn’t make it this year). I didn’t notice it until now but it looks like they even got “Thing” in the photo.

Frankenstein also has a rather elaborate display.

There’s this scary werewolf. I thought I saw a woman in a red hood here a second ago. Oh well.

Spider-Man helped this little girl shoot a web!

This is what I love so much about Salem this time of the year and the performers. They have so much personality (even the quiet ones like Mike Myers)

Speaking of Mike…here he is.

And of course Pennywise. Written on his tip jar is, “Tips to help find George Appreciated.” Good to know my money went to something worthwhile.

There were other famous characters who made special appearances during my visits.

The entire cast of the Nightmare Before Christmas somehow all made it there together.

There are several other performers who don’t have a name or aren’t emulating a famous character (at least not that I know of). But they are still pretty scary!

Witch costumes are also very popular in Salem.

Not all of the costumes people wear in Salem are scary of shocking though. Some are down right cute. It’s great seeing families get into the spirit of the Halloween season!

There were also lots of couples, or friends (I’m not judging or assuming here) who dressed up for their trip to Salem. There were so many cute, spooky and fun couples!