Category Archives: photographs

July 16, 2017

Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary (Attleboro, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: May 20 & June 19, 2017

Location: 1417 Park Street, Attleboro, MA

Hours: Trails are open daily dawn to dusk. Office hours are:

Summer:
Mon-Fri, 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Closed Sat & Sun

Spring, Fall, Winter:
Tues-Sat, 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Sun, 10 am-4 pm
Closed Mon

Cost: Free but a $2 donation is suggested for visitors who aren’t members of the Mass. Audubon Society

Parking: There is ample parking inthe main parking lot for about 40 to 50 vehicles.

Trail Size/Difficulty: 1.5 miles, easy

Handicapped Accessible: The nature center and rest rooms are handicapped accessible. The trails at Oak Knoll are not.

Dog friendly: No, most Audubon trails are not pet friendly

Highlights: wildlife, pond, easy trails, geo-caching, summer camp for children, nature center

Website: Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary

Trail Map: Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary Trail Map

Located about a mile and a half from Attleboro Springs Wildlife Sanctuary, Oak Knoll is a fun trail with with scenic views, abundant wildlife and a few other surprises along he way.

Spring was in the air and a rebirth of sorts was happening on the trails. During my first visit, I found these two Northern Water Snakes getting friendly. To be honest, I wasn’t really sure what I was looking at. But, I did think at the time I did hear the faint sounds of Al Green in the air. The naturalist at the nature center told me you could tell they were mating by their interlocked tails.

The Northern Water Snake can be dangerous. Although they usually tend to avoid confrontations, if they feel threatened the snake can bite their predator or perceived predator and their bites can require medical attention. This is why I always tend to keep my distance (these photos were taken with my telephoto lens) and from behind in most of the shots I took except for the one front facing photo.

During my second visit in June, I noticed this turtle on the trail. Since it is unusual for a turtle to be in the trail and its even more unusual for a turtle to not flee when they see a human (I could have pet the turtle I was so close although of course I never would at least not int he wild), I notified the naturalist since I thought maybe the turtle might be injured. The naturalist told me the turtle was most likely laying her eggs as they often do this away away from the water and it was that time of the year when turtles will lay their eggs.

The naturalist also informed me that turtles also tend to lay their eggs on warm areas, such as the side of paved roads. This is one of the reasons why turtles often get hit by cars on the side of the road. So, be careful while your driving this time of the year!

The trails at Oak Knoll are easy with some boardwalks that pass over red maple swamps and freshwater marshes. There are a few very slight inclines. But the trails are primarily very easy.

The main trail at Oak Knoll is a loop that leads to and circles around Lake Talaquega (say that 5 times fast). There are some pretty views of the lake along the way.

I also spotted this geocache off the trail. Apparently, a regular visitor at the sanctuary installs these geocaches from time to time.

There are a wide variety of birds and other critters at the sanctuary. This colorful insect is a six pointed tiger beetle. I think they call him Ringo.

There was also butterflies, garter snakes and a variety of birds.

The nature center at the entrance to the trails has amphibians in tanks that are being taken care of while they are rehabbed or are there for educational purposes, particularly for the children who are attending the summer camp they host. They also have some pretty flowers and trees on their grounds.

Today’s Nomad link of the day is the North Attleboro Fish Hatchery by Trails And Walks In Rhode Island. Trails And Walks offers informative and detailed summaries of different trails in and around the Rhode Island area. I appreciate the short but sweet synopsis of each trail and the posts always include one pretty photograph of the area. I may have also used the website to find some places to visit!

19 Comments | tags: Attleboro, birds, Massachusetts, New England, Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, photographs, Photography, photos, sanctuary, snakes, trail, turtle | posted in Attleboro, birds, lake, Massachusetts, New England, Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, photographs, photography, photos, snake, Uncategorized

July 15, 2017

Attleboro Springs Wildlife Sanctuary (Attleboro, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: May 20 & June 19, 2017

Location: Park St, Attleboro, MA (behind the La Salette Shrine at 947 Park St) (45 minutes southwest of Boston, MA, and 15 minutes northeast of Providence, RI)

Hours: Open daily sunrise to sunset

Cost: Free but donations are appreciated

Parking: There is room for about 10 cars in the lot next to the trail. You may also be able to park at the Lasallette Shrine in front of the trail.

Trail Size/Difficulty: 3 miles total (.5 handicapped accessible), easy with a few gentle inclines

Handicapped Accessible: Yes, .5 miles of the trail are handicapped accessible with boardwalks, along the pond and vernal pool. The rest of the trails are dirt, narrow and rocky and not handicapped accessible.

Dog Friendly: Dogs are not usually allowed on the Audubon trail but they are allowed in certain sections of the trail at Attleboro Springs (on the reflection trail I believe)

Website: Attleboro Springs

Trail Map: Attleboro Springs Trail Map

Highlights: wildlife, vernal pool,

Fitbit Stats: 2,712 steps, 242 calories, 1.19 miles

Often overshadowed by the more well known cities and towns south of Boston, Attleboro, MA, is one of the more underrated sections of Massachusetts. It is also the site of two beautiful Audubon sanctuaries (Attleboro Springs and Oak Knoll) . I decided to visit Attleboro Springs first.

Attleboro Springs is a little hard to find. Basically, look for the La Salette Shrine on Park St. The path to the trail is the very next turn after the shrine.

From the entrance to the park, one word comes to mind – charming. A pavilion and map of the trail are located on the trail at the entrance.

The main trail at Attleboro Springs is the Reflection Trail. The Reflection Trail encircles a pond. A vernal pool with a vernal pool are also on the trail. It is the easiest trail to take, although there are additional side trails.

Birds, frogs, tadpoles and other kinds of wildlife are abundant along the trail, particularly at the pond and vernal pool.

I love side trails and going off the beaten path. So, of course I tried them. There wasn’t much to see except a brook and a cool bridge on the side trail.

The Reflection Trail is very easy with few inclines or rocky terrain which makes it ideal for jogging on or taking walks on, particularly since it is a short trail (about 3/4 of a mile).

I know I write this often. But, what the heck. I could spend all day here. The trails are easy. The pond is a popular spot for birds and aquatic life (naturally). And there are seats to watch all the life around you. As an added bonus, it’s free to visit. It’s usually the smaller, charming places that stick with me. In fact, I liked it so much I visited it twice.

The Nomad’s link of the day is a blog post by WordPress blogger and fellow New Englander Kristen. Kristen’s blogs are peppered with book reviews, pretty photos and interesting observations. Kristen posted about place that is very close to this trail and is one of the more popular places in Attleboro, La Salette is a popular place to visit year round. But, it is especially busy during the winter each year when they host a holiday light display. You can find Kristen’s wonderful blog post here.

6 Comments | tags: Attleboro, birds, frogs, heron, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, tadpoles, trails | posted in Attleboro, Attleboro Springs, birds, frog, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, trail, Uncategorized

July 14, 2017

Tuck Museum (Hampton, NH)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 16, 2017

Location:40 Park Avenue, Hampton, NH (about 1 hour north of Boston, MA and 45 minutes east of Manchester, NH)

Hours: Spring / Summer / Fall Museum Hours
Sunday, Wednesday, Friday
1 to 4pm

Winter Museum Hours
January, February, and March
Wednesday, Friday
1 to 4pm
Sunday by appointment

Cost: Free but donations are appreciated

Parking: There is parking available at the side entrance of the building. There is also additional parking behind the building.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes (thanks to Ryan Lamers)

Highlights: historical artifacts, memorials

Website: Tuck Museum Complex

Who knew Hampton had so much history? That is what many visitors think when they leave the Tuck Museum in Hampton, NH.

But, it really shouldn’t surprise anyone that so much history. After all, it is one of the oldest settled areas of New Hampshire having been settled in 1638.

It’s also surprising that a small museum can have so much historical items and stories. Upon entering the museum, you will most likely notice some of the historical articles from many years ago. One of the main features is are the items from the defunct railway that ran to Hampton.

There are also two mannequins dressed in old military clothing from an earlier era. This is a preview of an exhibit I will discuss later in this post.

The Tuck Museum is considered a “museum complex” because it has several structures and memorials on its land. Guided tours are given to all of these buildings by the very knowledgeable staff.

The first place our guide took us to was the fire fighter building which had older firefighting equipment and vehicles. It’s hard to believe , but true, that some of these vehicles were moved by humans, not horses, in the early days of the fire department in Hampton. It is fitting since the fire department still remains the same – physically go and save lives, despite all of the technological advancements they have made. It still boils down to the one constant – the brave men and women who work in that profession everyday.

You may notice the name Winnacunnet on the fire engine pictured above. That used to be the name of Hampton (more specifically it was called Plantation of Winnacunnet) because of the pine trees in the area (Winnacunnet translates to “beautiful place of pines”). A high school and street in the Hampton area still bear this name.

The next building we went to on the property of the Tuck Museum complex was the barn which contained many of the machines, tools and equipment the people used to farm the land and conduct the everyday chores of the settlers of Hampton. Everything from fishing equipment, agricultural devices to a shoe cobbler’s counter were housed in this barn. Each of these devices has a story and history behind it.

It would take too long and take up too much space to explain each one. But, if you do go on the tour at the museum the tour guide will keep you entertained with various anecdotes and fun facts about these machines and tools. One fun fact you can impress your friends and hot dates with at dinner parties is that when cobblers made shoes there was only one shape to them so you could wear any shoe on any foot. I was joking – please don’t tell anyone that on a date.

There is also a special military exhibit dedicated to the people connected to Hampton, NH. Included in this exhibit are letters from people serving that have been donated on a temporary basis from family and friends of those who served abroad during wartime. One of the storiees that stood out to me from my visit to this memorial was the story of Hampton residentof Lt. Rita Palmer and the Angels of Bataan.

The final room of the museum (I told you it was surprisingly big) was a room with household items and some of the luxuries of the early settlers of the area.

The framed work of art pictured above was made of human hair (does that make it a bona-fide “hair loom”?).

There are also some replicas of beach houses that used to dot the landscape of the Hampton area on the grounds. Since it was raining outside, I was unable to get to them without getting my camera equipment wet, unfortunately.

Hampton has a rather obscure dark side in the form of a witch, Eunice “Goody” Cole. Eunice Cole was the only woman convicted of witchcraft in Hampton, NH (although many others have been casually accused of being one I am sure).

After being released from indentured servitude, her husband and she settled in Mount Wollaston (now Quincy, MA) and they eventually made their way to Hampton, NH. Since they did not have children (they were both beyond child bearing age) and some other characteristics of her that were considered unusual at the time, she must have been a witch. Of course. She was actually accused of witchcraft several times. the first time she was convicted of witchcraft was in 1660. She served 2 years in prison and was sentenced again for a number of years in 1668. She was also found not guilty of witchcraft when she was tried in 1673. And I thought we were litigious these days.

Eventually, Goody Cole was absolved of her accused crime of witchcraft on March 8, 1938. The citizens passed a resolution restoring Eunice “Goody” Cole to her rightful place as a citizen of Hampton. The city went as far as to burn copies of all her court documents, The burned documenst were said to be mixed with soil from her last home and reputed resting place and buried. However, it was actually given to the Tuck Museum.

This brings me to the last few photos of the museum and its grounds. Inside the museum there are some replicas of Goody Cole.

On the grounds of the museum is a memorial without her name or any other marking. In fact, if you did not know the story about Eunice Cole you may just pass by it none the wiser. The marker was erected by Harold Fernald, a teacher and part time police officer from Hampton. The stone is said to be from the location of Eunice Cole’s property.

As an aside, the North Shore paranormal Group and some other paranormal groups have done ghost hunting on the premises with what they considered convincing results that some paranormal activity occurred. The fact the museum is located right across the street from a graveyard, mixed with the Goody Cole history, has added to the theories of paranormal activity. Admittedly, I saw some unusual things during my stay in hampton. But, it was mostly at the beach.

Another memorial on the grounds of Tuck Museum is dedicated to Thorvald, the brother of Viking explorer Leif Erickson and son of Erik the Red. However, this memorial has more of a controversial past as some believe it was just a rock put there by Judge Charles A. lamprey to increase the value of land that he was developing for beach cottages in 1902. Whatever the true story behind the rock, it has become a popular tourist attraction.

The grounds of the museum are well kept and worth strolling by even if you don’t venture into the museum.

marylizstyles is a fellow New England blogger who specializes in the fashion blogging genre. Read a post about her recent dude that’s so nautical fashion adventure in Hampton, NH.

9 Comments | tags: firefighting, Historical, history, memorials, monuments, New England, new hampshire, photographs, Photography, photos, Witch | posted in Hampton, NH, historical, history, New England, new hampshire, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

July 13, 2017

Rockwell Park (Bristol, CT)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 1, 2017

Location: 243 Jacobs, St, Bristol, CT (2 hours southwest of Boston, MA and 30 minutes southwest of Hartford, CT)

Cost: Free

Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset

Parking: There are several parking areas with ample parking

Trail Size/Difficulty: over 100 acres/easy

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: ponds, streams, bridges, dog park, baseball field, tennis courts, kids playground, fountain, skate park, basketball and volleyball courts, summer programs for kids

Website: Rockwell Park

I’m back! Unfortunately, I had some downtime due to some repairs that needed to be done on my laptop. So, I couldn’t download photos for some time. The reason for my issues? Fur in the fan of my laptop that was causing a very distracting noise. The culprit was this little lady.

Image may contain: cat

I’ll let it pass cause she’s cute.

Being away from the blogging game gave me some time to reset and think over my blog. I have added one additional feature to my posts. Take a look at the end of the blog (no, not now) to see what I have added.

But, I’m back in business and I have lots of fun places and pets from New England to share with everyone! So, without further delay…

Even though I live only a couple of hours away from Connecticut, I hadn’t been there much before I began this blog. But, I have to say the few parks I have been to in Connecticut have been top notch. Rockwell Park in Bristol is no exception.

Rockwell Park mixes recreation, fitness, beauty and open spaces to give the entire family (and their pets) something to look forward to when they visit.

There is a large pond at the entrance to the park on Jacobs St. Along the pond is a trail that circles the pond and goes further along the park.

There are several fitness stations along the trail with workout equipment with instructions about how to use them.

I gave the pull up bar a shot. Look at that form. No, really look at it. It needs some work. One pull up is my limit, though. I didn’t try the sit up equipment, for obvious reasons. I mean, let’s not go crazy with the fitness stuff.

With its baseball field, volley and basketball courts and Frisbee golf, fitness and exercise are prominent themes at the park.

Several bridges pass over a stream that flows through the park with some pretty views

The stream is relatively calm and not very deep. In fact, some people like to cross the stream without using the bridge.

These boys were looking for fish and frogs.

The trails are mostly dirt and are mostly easy with some gentle inclines.

There is a boardwalk just off the main trail that leads to a fountain.

A structure of some kind stands next to the boardwalk.

Rockwell Park has a lot of activities and attractions for younger children and teens. This play area, with splash pad, is a popular attractions for kids. I was very tempted to use the splash pad.

There is also an open space with seating for people to attend concerts and other events.

There are also monuments to the along the trail.

The inscription on the first marker (from left to right) in the photos above which is dedicated to John Christopher Mack reads:

This Tablet is to Perpetuate the Memory Of
John Christopher Mack
A public spirited citizen who truly loved Bristol
the place of his birth.
His declining years were spent in California
yet his interest in his native town never lessened.
His great love for children
found fitting expression in his will
by which a substantial sum was provided
for the development of recreational facilities
for them in the parks and playgrounds
of the city.

The inscription on the marker dedicated to Albert Rockwell, the benefactor of the land the park sits on reads:

Albert F. Rockwell
1862 – 1925
Inventor, manufacturer, public-
spirited citizen. He gave to the
city this park and contributed
liberally to its development.
His initiave and counsel were
of great value in the civic
and industrial life of Bristol.
In appreciation, the people by
voluntary contribution have
erected this memorial.
Bristol, Connecticut 1926

You don’t have to look too hard to find wildlife at Rockwell Park. Birds, chipmunks, squirrels and even turtles inhabit the park.

With its easy trails and spacious field, Rockwell Park is a great place to take your dog.

Brody is a 4 month old Red Fox Lab. I saw him learning how to play Frisbee.

Molly is a 9 year old Chocolate Lab. Molly is a natural poser!

Lucy and Ricki were at the park when I went to visit. Lucy had some “expaining to do”, according to Ricki, In fact, they visit often. Named after the fictional TV couple from “I Love Lucy”, Lucy and Ricky are very close friends. Lucy is a Yorkie.

Ricky is a 6 month year old Yorkie.

There is also a dog park, called B.A.R.K.Park, located in Rockwell Park. You can walk to it from the main entrance or you can drive to it (the address is 28 Muzzy St). BARK Park (get it?) is a large fenced in dog park.

There weren’t many dogs there when I went to visit. But, I did find these three cuties.

Febi is a 3 year old Rottweiler.

Emmitt is a 6 year old pit bull mastiff mix.

Molly is a 2 year old Chihuahua.

My new feature to my blog is a link to another blog, website or article about the area or people or places from the area I have visited. My first link is to a post by katieleigh about her husband her visit to Connecticut. Katie is a blogger on WordPress who has a special affinity for books. Stop by and see some of the other wonderful attractions Connecticut has to offer!

Weekend In Connecticut

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Twitter (@waynefitz12)

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10 Comments | tags: Bristol, CT, connecticut, dogs, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, Rockwell Park | posted in Bristol, CT, connecticut, dogs, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Rockwell Park, Uncategorized

July 4, 2017

The Mount (Lenox,MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 4, 2017

Location: 2 Plunkett St, Lenox, MA (about 2 hours west of Boston and 1 hour northwest of Springfield, MA)

Hours: The Mount is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm through October 31st, except on early closing days (please see below). The Mount is open from 10:30 am – 3:00 pm most weekends in November through February. Please call 413-551-5100 to confirm hours.

Cost: $18 for adults, $17 for seniors (65 and older), $13 for students with id, $10 for members of the military, free for teens and children (18 and younger)

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Service pets may be allowed

Highlights: home of author Edith Wharton, trails, fountains, flowers

Website: The Mount

Once the home to one of Massachusetts’ more prominent authors, The Mount is more than just a beautiful mansion. The Mount, once the home of Edith Wharton, has colorful gardens, fountains, art, spectacular views and history around every corner.

The Mount, which was recently restored, is an elegant house that has kept much of its original charm. What is great about the mansion is that you can see the entire home in half an hour or so. Yet, it isn’t so much the quantity of time and space the tour (I took a self guided tour but there may also be guided tours as well) would take. But, rather, it is the quality of time and space the tour takes. Around each corner is one beautiful piece of furniture and architecture. Yeah, I think I could live here.

I couldn’t use my flash when I took photos inside of the mansion. But, I did my best. Sometimes the lack of lighting gives the home a mysterious feel. Sometimes it just makes the photos look crappy. You decide.

The two floor building has about a dozen rooms and there is a handicapped accessible entry and elevator.

Some of my favorite rooms had the old, antiquated tools and appliances we used to use.

The grounds of the Mount is as beautiful as the inside of the building.

The Beaver Loop Trail, a gentle, short trail (about half a mile) that runs along the grounds of The Mount, offers some very pretty views.

Edith Wharton was fond of animals (well, mostly she was fond of dogs not so much cats – oh well she wasn’t purrfect I guess). Along the trail around the mansion, a side trail leads too a pet cemetery.

There are also little critters along the trail outside of the home.

The Mount is also hosting a special art exhibit called SculptureNow on its trail. If you missed it, you can view the blog post I posted a few weeks ago bout the art exhibit here.

Please connect with me on Facebook to view more New England area related content.

8 Comments | tags: architecture, art, Edith Wharton, garden, Lenox, mansion, Massachusetts, New England, sculptures, The Mount, trail | posted in art, Edith Wharton, garden, history, Lenox, mansions, Massachussetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, The Mount, Uncategorized

July 2, 2017

Harold Parker State Forest (No. Andover, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 25, 2017

Location: 305 Middleton St., No. Andover, MA (about 30 minutes north of Boston and about 1 hour southeast of Concord, NH)

Cost: There are several parking stations to pay per the hour or you can park at the headquarters which is what I did. There wasn’t a charge to park at the headquarters the day I visited. The charge to park at Berry Pond is $5 for MA vehicles; $6 for non-MA vehicles

Hours: trails are open sunrise to sunset. Berry Pond Beach is open 10am-6pm from June 25- Sept 5.

Parking: There are several parking lots throughout the automated pay stations.

Trail Size/Difficulty: 35 miles of logging roads and trails/easy with some challenging inclines

Handicapped Accessible: Yes, the main paves trail is and Berry Pond has several handicapped parking spaces right near the beach.

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: wildlife, beach, lakes, extensive trail system, campground area, rock climbing

Website: Harold Parker State Forest

Trail Map: Harold Parker State Forest Trail Map

One of the more vast state forests I have visited to date, Harold Parker State Forest boasts over 35 miles of trails and roads, a beach (Berry Pond), several ponds and lakes and a variety of wildlife. I spent over 6 hours there and, while I did cover a lot of ground, there was surely some a lot I didn’t see. Tip of the day: if you do go, bring a trail map!

The trails at Harold Parker are generally easy with some moderate inclines. Due to the various streams and wetlands, there are also several boardwalk trails.

Harold Parker is a popular spot for cyclists. According to the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA) the single track riding rates at Harold Parker State Forest are: 30% easy, 30% moderate, and 40% difficult with some rocky sections.

It is a little difficult finding the exact entrance to Harold Parker (I found 3 different addresses but I included the address of the headquarters at the top of this post). It’s not a bad thing, though, because you can park in any of the various parking areas. Just to make sure to pay at the pay station when you do park. You can also drive to each different parking area as the main road is paved and fairly wide enough for traffic, cyclists and hikers to share the road.

I began my day at Stearns Pond, one of the many ponds in the area. Fishing is allowed and I met a friendly fisherman who goes there regularly to cast his lines. They also allow non-motorized boating in the ponds. There is an annual fishing festival held in September at the state forest.

Stearns Pond is only one of the many ponds, rivers and streams at Harold Parker State Forest. In fact, it’s hard to keep track of which pond or river you are at, even with the aid of a map. But, there were some amazing views from the various bodies of water.

Unexpectedly, I came across this huge rock. I bet there’s a good story about this rock. I couldn’t find anything about in my research, though. It’s one big rock, though! Right!?

One of the highlights of Harold Parker is Berry Pond which is essentially a beach area and playground for children and families. It was a perfect beach day and the beach was packed. But, with photographic trickery I was able to photograph the beach without showing the sun bathers and swimmers. After all, not everyone wants to be seen in their Speedo.

Walking along the SKUG Reservation Trail, I came across the site of an old quarry and soapstone mill, the Jenkins Mill. There’s not much now to indicate it was once a quarry. If not for the marking on the map and a few rocks dispersed around the area, I would not have known it was once there. It’s kind of a shame that something that meant so much to so many people and was once such an important part of the area is now little more than a blip on the screen.

There are lots of birds, chipmunks, frogs and other critters visible along the trail and in the water at Harold Parker.

Harold Parker State Forest is a dog friendly park. However, I didn’t see as many dogs as I thought I would. I did manage to see these three cuties, though!

Suzie is a 7 month old English Setter. She is hearing impaired. So, she can hear some sounds. Her dad uses signals to help him communicate with her.

Bella (or “Bell”) is a 9 year old Beagle and Lab mix.

Herbie is a 1 year old Pit mix.

Below is a video of one of the brooks that runs through Harold Parker State Forest. Enjoy!

Please connect with me on Facebook to see more New England related content!

3 Comments | tags: dogs, Harold Parker State Forest, Massachusetts, New England, North Andover, photographs, Photography, photos, scenic, trails, trees | posted in birds, dogs, Harold Parker State Forest, Massachusetts, New England, North Andover, photographs, photography, photos, trails, trees, Uncategorized

July 1, 2017

Pope John Paul II Park (Dorchester, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: June 17 & 18, 2017

Location: There are several entrances at Gallivan Blvd. and Hallet St., Dorchester, MA

Cost: Free

Parking: There are multiple parking lots at the entrances

Hours: Open from sunrise til one hour before sunset

Trail Size/Difficulty: 2 miles, easy with moderate inclines

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: wildlife, scenic, easy trails, ball fields

Website: Pope John Paul II Park

With its rolling hills, abundant wildlife, pretty trees and flowers and beautiful views, it’s hard to believe it once was the home to a drive in (remember those?) and a land fill.

Connected to Senator Joseph Finnegan Park, Pope John Paul II Park is part of the extensive Neponset River Greenway.

Pope John Paul Park is not only beautiful for it’s natural beauty, there are also two murals at the park.

There are a variety of birds at Pope John Paul Park (but I didn’t see any cardinals which was unusual).

This bird had a meal for his or her babies,

There are many pretty trees, plants and rolling hills along the paths.

The paths at John Paul Park are easy with some moderate inclines.

The paths are perfect for running, riding your bicycle or rollerblading with your dog.

There are some wonderful views along the Neponset River which separates Dorchester from picturesque Quincy, MA.

People like to use the river to cruise along with their jet ski, boat or other aquatic vessel.

There is also a stream that flows under the bridge at the park.

There are also soccer and lacrosse fields as well as pavilions and benches for people to sit and watch the games.

Pope John Paul Park is a great place to bring your dog. Zoey, a 5 year old mixed breed dog, brought her ball with her to the park.

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4 Comments | tags: birds, dog, Dorchester, Massachusetts, murals, Neponset, Neponset River Greenway, New England, Park, photographs, photohgraphy, photos, scenic, views | posted in dog, Dorchester, Massachusetts, Neponset River Greenway, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Pope John Paul II Park, scenic, Uncategorized, water

June 30, 2017

Senator Joseph Finnegan Park (Dorchester, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 17, 2017

Location: corner of Taylor St. and Water St., Neponset area of Dorchester, Boston, MA

Hours: Open sunrise to sunset

Cost: Free

Parking: Parking is available by the main entrances on Water or Taylor St. You can also park at Pope John Paul II Park on Hallet St or Gallivan Blvd as the trails for each park are connected

Park size/trail difficulty: 15 acres/easy

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: scenic views, cycling/walking paths, wildlife

Website: Finnegan Park

Bigger isn’t necessarily better.

Part of the Neponset River Greenway, at a scant 15 acres Finnegan Park is one of the smaller yet more charming parks to open in the Boston area.

Dedicated in May of this year, Finnegan Park is a small yet popular destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city it borders.

Some of the park’s more appealing features are the scenic views and birds that inhabit the area, if you find that sort of things appealing that is. In the background you can see some of the residential buildings in the lovely Quincy, Massachusetts neighborhood. Egrets and Canadian geese are common visitors at the park.

There are also blocks of what looks like granite with words like “Charity” as well as the history of the area and descriptions of the wildlife in the area engraved on them.

One of the really cool things about the park is the train that passes by. The very same train I take to work.

Named after former state senator and representative Joseph Finnegan who worked hard to revitalize the area, Finnegan Park is a great place to ride your bike, play hopscotch or take your dog for a walk.

Gladys had a fun time walking along the trails at Finnegan Park.

Finnegan Park is only one segment of the Neponset River Greenway. In a future post I will be showing off another beautiful part of this project.

6 Comments | tags: birds, Boston, dog, Dorchester, Finnegan Park, Massachusetts, Neponset River Greenway, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, scenic, train | posted in birds, Boston, dog, Dorchester, Finnegan Park, Massachusetts, Neponset River Greenway, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, scenic, trains, Uncategorized

June 25, 2017

Stodder’s Neck (Hingham, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: June 15, 2017

Location: 467 Lincoln St, Hingham, MA (30 minutes southeast of Boston)

Cost: Free

Parking: There is ample parking for about 50 cars

Trail Size/Difficulty: .7 mile loop, easy trails with some gentle inclines and some side trails.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: wide trails, picnic tables, water fountains for Fido, harbor views, wildlife, well maintained trails and grass for dogs to play

Website: Stodder’s Neck

Trail Map: Stodder’s Neck Trail Map

Once the site of a gravel pit, Stodder’s Neck is now one of the most popular dog parks in the South Shore (south of Boston). In fact, as the photo below shows, the park was designed as a dog park, although humans can also use it for birding, observing other dogs or just taking a leisurely walk.

The park has a water fountain with a spigot at dog’s level.

There is also a board for people to hang lost dog tags (on hooks at the side of the board) and photos of dogs (many of whom have passed on) who enjoy the park as well as other notes of importance.

Even the entrance to the park has been designed to help prevent dogs from running ahead into the parking lot by having a narrow entrance. I believe you may also open the gate at a different point if you need more room to enter or exit.

The dirt trails at Stodder’s Neck have benches and picnic tables dotted along the way for you to sit and give your dog a chance to rest.

The views along the trail are impressive.

But, the best part of the trails has to be the Weymouth Back River that forms the peninsula the park sits on.

And dogs seem to like the river as well.

There are also a variety of birds and other animals at Stodder’s Neck. Egrets also nest there during the spring and summer. I came across this Egret hunting.

I guess I got too close and scared him or her.

And what would a dog park be without, you guessed it, dogs!?

Moose is a 5 year old Lab.

Harley, 7 years old, is part German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Malinois.

Kylie is a 5 year old poogle

Mindy is a 4.5 year old rescue.

Mya is a 4 and a half year old Shepherd and Lab mix.

Macy is a one and a half year old pitbull and boxer mix.

Yuki is an 8 month old American Eskimo. Yuki, for those of you not in the know, means “snow” in Japanese.

Tank is a one and a half year old Field Springer.

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4 Comments | tags: birds, dog park, dogs, egrets, Hingham, Massachusetts, New England, Park, photographs, Photography, photos, Stodder's Neck | posted in birds, dog park, dogs, egrets, Massachusetts, New England, park, photographs, photography, photos, Stodder's Neck, Uncategorized

June 23, 2017

17th Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic (Hampton Beach, NH)

By New England Nomad

Dates of Event: June 15 – June 17, 2017 (sculptures on display until June 28)

Location: 180 Ocean Blvd, Hampton Beach, NH

Cost: Free

Parking:

Effective May 1st – $2 per hour public parking. Pay at Pay Station and Must display receipt visibly on dashboard.

Handicap Parking – Handicap parking is available in any legal metered parking spot providing you have a Handicap Plate or a Hanging Handicap Tag hanging, or visible, in your front window.

There are also several parking lots (ranging from $5 to $20 a day) throughout the Hampton Beach area.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: Sand sculptures by master sand sculptures

Rain and chilly temperatures did not prevent master sand sculptors from playing in the sand last weekend at Hampton Beach.

The 17th annual sand sculpting competition attracted master sand sculptors from all over the globe. In case you missed the sculpting event, you can still view the sculptures until June 28 and they light the area at night so you can view them day or night.

Although all of the sculptures were worthy, only one could be crowned the champion.

First place went to Melineige Beauregard from Montreal Canada. Beauregard’s sculpture is called “Dance of the Undefined.” Melineige said her sculpture represents how we are constantly changing and yet some aspects of us stay the same.

Second place went to Abe Waterman from Prince Edward Island for his sculpture, “Get Out Of The Box.” He also won the “Sculptor’s Choice Award” as well as my vote! It had rained heavily the night before the sculptures were scheduled to be completed and, even though the sand is capable of withstanding some degree of inclement weather, his sculpture almost collapsed. You can see a “crack” or line in his sculpture which was caused by the heavy rains.

Karen Fralich, of Toronto, Canada, took third place with “Tiny Warrior.”

David Andrews of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, nabbed fourth place with “Hands Of Fate.”

Fifth place was awarded to Carl D. Jara of for “I Can’t Get This Out Of My Mind.”

The People’s Choice Award was won by Michel LePire of Quebec for “Seduction.” This was Michel’s last sand sculpting competition as he is retiring. he certainly went out with a bang!

Although they did not place, the rest of the sculptures were very creative and stunning. It must have been very hard for the judges to decide on the winners.

Justin Gordon, of Groveland, MA, created his sculpture, “Gazing Life Beyond”, as a tribute to his mother in the afterlife. Even though some of the other sand sculptures may have been more pleasing visually, I think Justin’s sentiment best.

Marc Lepire, of Quebec, dedicated his sculpture, “Grand Slam”, to his children and all fans of baseball. Can you tell by the number and team of the player who the person in the sculpture is?