Tag Archives: New England

November 11, 2016

Vintage Baseball (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: October 22, 2016

Location: Salem Commons, North Washington Square, Salem, MA (about 30 minutes north of Boston)

Cost: Free

Parking: Parking Is Available at the Liberty and Congress St garages and on street parking is available.

Handicap Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Web Site: Mid Atlantic Vintage Baseball League

Seeing people in costumes and uniforms in Salem during the month of October is not unusual. However, the people in uniform at Salem Common this past October were dressed up for a very different purpose.

The Providence Grays, a vintage baseball club honoring the original pro baseball team of the same name, were playing their rivals the Brooklyn Atlantics on a crisp fall afternoon.

The Grays became the National League’s newest addition to major league baseball in 1878 when they adopted gray flannel instead of white for their home uniforms and consequently became known as the ‘Grays.’ They would remain in the league until they folded in 1885. During that time frame they won two tiles (in 1879 and 1884),

This isn’t your modern day. Players wear wool uniforms. They don’t wear gloves. And the rules were very different.

One of the rules that is starkly differently from today’s rules is that if you fielded a hit ball after one bounce, the batter was out. Of course, this rule does not exist today and if it did exist today a lot of batters would make many more outs. Another rule that no longer exists is that batters were given 3 balls to earn a walk rather than the 4 balls which is the rule in today’s Major League Baseball. Also, the pitcher pitched from a scant 50 feet away from home plate and there was no mound. In today’s mlb, the pitching mound is 60 feet and 6 inches away from home plate and, although it may vary, the mound is not supposed to be higher than 10 inches above home plate.

Unlike their somewhat drab uniforms, the Providence Grays have a very exciting past. For instance, they were the first team to integrate.

If you asked people who was the first professional black baseball player in major league baseball was many people would say Jackie Robinson, Many people would be wrong. According to Tim Norton , the founder and president of the Providence Grays. The first black American baseball player played for a professional baseball team played for the Providence Grays. William Edward White played as a substitute in one professional baseball game for the Providence Grays of the National League, on June 21, 1879.

Some fans, like the fans of the newly crowned World Series champs Chicago Cubs, are known for throwing home runs balls back onto the field if the opposing team hits a home run to express their dismay at the other team’s good fortune. The fans at Providence Gray games did the same. But for a very different reason.

At the time the team was formed in 1878, the league was still very green and not very profitable. The fans were asked to throw the balls back so they could be re-used.

The players also didn’t wear gloves. So, they pitched underhanded and would often lob the ball as it is easier to catch barehanded that way.

I’m full of all sorts of fun facts today, aren’t I?

On the day I saw them, the Providence Grays split their double header against the Brooklyn Atlantics (aka the Atlantic Baseball Club of New York). The Providence Grays are in the gray uniforms while the Atlantics donned white shirts and black pants.

I thought this resembled a baseball card.

Looking at the players in their floppy socks and uniforms that resemble loose fitting pajamas, I couldn’t help thinking about the characters on “Field Of Dreams.”

The foliage gave a good backdrop to the field.

The teams do take these games seriously and we saw some good baseball.

If you missed them this year, don’t worry. The Grays and other teamss have been playing in Sallem Commons for about 10 years. Check their web site and Salem’s web site for future game dates.

Freya, an 18 month Great Dane (weighing in at 130 lbs already), also enjoyed the game.

Below is a video from the game.

8 Comments | tags: baseball, Brooklyn Atlantics, dog, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Providence Grays, Salem | posted in baseball, dog, foliage, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Salem, Uncategorized

November 5, 2016

SoWa (Boston, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date of Event: October 30, 3016

Location: 375 Harrison Blvd, Boston, MA

Hours: Every Sunday, May 1 – October 31, 10-4 with special events throughout the year

Cost: Admission is free

Parking: There is limited free parking on Thayer St for up to 90 minutes. There is also metered on street parking and garages on Albany and Harrison streets and other garages in the area.

Handicapped Accessible: Yes

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: Graffiti artists, vendors, dj, costume contest

Web Site: SoWa Boston

SoWa, South of Washington (Street), is an outdoor entertainment/shopping/food festival held in Boston on every Sunday from May until October (weather permitting). I made it to the last SoWa of the season on October 30. There will be another SoWa Winter festival scheduled for the weekend of Dec 2-4 at the Harrison Ave venue.

Before I entered the venue, I saw lots of graffiti on the exterior of the area and on some nearby buildings.

SoWa was held in an empty lot off Harrison Blvd, a busy side street in Boston. You could see views of the skyline from the parking lot.

For a small area, they had a lot to do there from pumpkin decorating, a costume contest and a dj with dancing. Bon Me, Sante and Chik Chak had food trucks there, providing a variety of food choices.

As a side note, it is really so much more than a shopping festival. I really had alot more fun than I had expected. The people are very friendly and the entertainment, as you will see, was very, well,…entertaining.

People,as well as dogs, came dressed up on costume to SoWa.

The great thing about SoWa and other local shopping and entertainment festivals is that you get to promoted and support local artisans. I found a few interesting shops there.

Another thing that really stood out to me was how it is such a family friendly atmosphere. I didn’t hear one person swear or do or say anything unruly. In fact, many of the artists had their children stop by and spend time with them as they worked on their piece.

Also, the camaraderie they have for each other was noticeable. It didn’t seem like they were competing against each other, even though they took a great deal of pride in their work. Artists shared spray cans, complimented each other and jokes with each other.

The artists worked on blank canvases and started with their own sketches from pictures or diagrams they had on sheets of paper. I am not sure but I think they added their own flavor to some of the artwork.

The tools of the trade.

As they kept working, you could see the art coming together. They worked fast. Most started at 11 and were done by 4. I appreciated how they kept adding tone and contrast too the art in an effort to perfect their piece. They weren’t satisfied until every piece was just so. In fact, I had to leave a little after 4, after being there for several hours. So, some of the pieces may not have been completely finished by the time I left.

As they kept working, you could see their art come together. it’s very cool how they seem to work so casually and yet, at the same time, so deliberately.

The completed versions of their art works contrasted sharply from the begining of their art or the way it looked half way through.

SoWa is a pet friendly event. Since this particular event took place the day before Halloween there were quite a few dogs in costume at the event.

I actually met a few cute dogs before the event started.

Eloise is a 2 year old YorkieTerrier rescue dog with an Instagram account! You can follow her on her travels at @eloisethedog (https://www.instagram.com/eloisethedog/).

Penny is French bulldog. I had to stand next to her mommy so she would look at me!

At the actual event, I met a variety of dogs.

Fitz, a Yorkie, looked very patriotic in his red, white and blue outfit.

Otis, a 9 month old and 90 pound bullmastiff/bulldog mix, was helping his mom sell collars. You can check out his mom’s store at Wiggle Collars.

Lyla is a 7.5 month shark, I mean mixed breed. I like how everyone stood around her as I photographed her as though it was a real photo shoot.

Twain, dressed as a pumpkin, is a 4 year old terrier mix.

Gus, dressed as Tootsie Roll, is a one and half year old Lagotto Romagnolo. There, say that three times fast. Lagotto Romagnolos are better known as Italian Waterdogs.

Sissy (the dog on the left) and Lilly (on the right) are 10 month old Yorkies.

Zoey, a 7 month old chihuahua, wore her spider outfit to the festival. Her pet parents, Kyle and Jessica, were working at Intrinsic Journeys when I saw her.

Birdie, a golden retriever, was one hot dog!

Rogue, a 1 year old Shih Tzu mix, wore a very creative costume.

And there was this wonder dog whose name and breed I did not get.

Below are two videos. The first video is of the artists working on their art. The second video is a video of the works of art in their final or near their final stages.

Please connect with me on Facebook to view photos, videos and other content not included in this blog. Here is a sneak peak at something that I posted from my Facebook page:

Creepy or cool? You be the judge.

Periodically, the Fort Point area in Boston by the Congress St Bridge will host different floating art works. Last year, there were (floating) sheep in the water. Now, there are orange people in the water.

Created by Ann Hirsch and Jeremy Angier (known as A+J Art + Design), “S.O.S.” (“Save Our Swimmers”) is a statement on the immigration and refugee crisis. The 22 orange “people” are said to be refugees clinging on for dear life.

Most seem creeped out by it, except the cormorant who found a nice place to rest.

(photos taken 10-12-16)

cormorant-orange

11 Comments | tags: art, Boston, dogs, graffiti, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, SoWa | posted in art, Boston, dogs, Massachusetts, New England, Uncategorized

November 3, 2016

Halloween In Salem (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: October 31, 2016

Location: Salem, MA

Parking: Parking is always difficult In salem during the Halloween season. Tourists and travelers are urged to take public transportation. Streets are also shut down during the day which makes parking even more difficult.

Handiscap Accessible: Yes

Dog friendly: Yes

Where else would anyone want to be on Halloween than Salem, MA?

Known world wide for its tragic history of the Salem Witch trials, Salem, MA, has turned a tragedy into a money maker. Each year, tens of thousands of people flock to Salem during October to get a taste of the spooky side of the city. But, as the photos below show, it’s not all witches and scares in Salem, although there were a lot of witches there duringmy visit!

For kicks, I took the train in to Salem. Normally, I prefer to drive. But, the workers at the visitors center stressed to me that it is better to drive. I like having my own vehicle because I can leave whenever I want to, I don’t have to wait for the scheduled trains and since I live very closse to Salem the drive is easily under one hour under normal circumstances. I timed my travel times and it takes a little longer going by train (about half an hour longer). I had to make two train transfers so that added to the travel time. Plus, I left during the day while everyone else would be at work or school. So, the driving and lack of parking wouldn’t have affected me as much since I left during in the morning. In the future, I would probably never go by train again but it may be useful for people coming from longer distances within Massachusetts.

Salem is a beautiful city and it was no different on Halloween. Salem was very festive for the big day. Many homes, businesses and other buildings were decorated.

Of course, there were lots of people dressed up for Halloween. The most common costumes were Donald Trump, witches, Mike Myers and, somewhat surprisingly, Jason.

Of course, what would the wicked witch be without her flying monkeys?

What’s great about the costumes is that people from all backgrounds, ages and sizes get dressed up and enjoyy the day!

Of course, the couples, friends and family that dressed up looked great.

The rest of the dressed up visitors were just as scary, pretty and funny. The costumes were very creative and, at times, kind of scary!

And what would a trip to Salem be without dogs? There were so many dogs dressed up for their big day!

Jazzmine proved that witches hats aren’t just for humans.

Sophie was a devilish dog!

Roxie the rufferee, a 2 and a half year old pittbull, lab, terrier mix, was very excited to be in Salem!

Zao “the man”, a 5 year old Brussels Griffon in a banana costume, posed like a pro . I think this is his Pinterest page:

Zao on Pinterest

Dodger, a golden retriever, proved you don’t have to wear a costume to look cute!

And some of the other dogs I saw in Salem…

Not all of the cute animals in Salem were dogs, though. Hamlet was in Salem to drum up support for Question 3 (a law that would expand the sizes of cages animals are kept in at farms and other places where they store livestock)

There were also street performers at Salem. This card magician, Darren Yong, attracted a lot of crowds.

You can find him here on the internet: Darren Yong Live

Here is a video of one of his tricks

Once again, Salem didn’t disappoint me this Halloween! I hope you all had a great Halloween!

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14 Comments | tags: costumes, dogs, Halloween, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Salem | posted in dogs, Halloween, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Salem, Uncategorized

November 1, 2016

Happy Halloween (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates Of Visits: October 22 & 29, 2016

Location: Salem, MA

Parking: Very limited during Halloween but you can find lots of parking at the New Liberty and Congress St parking garages and there is metered parkign available as well after Halloween season.

Handicapped Accessible: Salem’s streets are handicapped accessible and most buildings are as well.

October is full of scares and excitement in Salem, MA. And this year was no different. I saw so many cool, funny and, yes at times scary, people, pets and other things this year in Salem. Since I saw so many interesting things in Salem, I am breaking up my posts into several posts so I don’t go overboard with my images in each post since they can take a very long time to download, especially on mobile devices. And, believe it or not, there are so many interesting things in Salem all year round (not just during Halloween) but particularly during the fall. From the street performers, the, in some cases, elaborate decorations and the historical aspects of the city, tthere are so many things to post about. I will post the highlights from my Halloween day visit very soon.

Today’s post focuses mostly on the costumed people and the pets of Salem. I still have many more photos of costumed people that I will post soon. But, for the sake of time and space I am including these photos in chronological order from the earliest to the most recent. There were quite a few politicians at Salem (Donald and Hillary were even seen together). Poor Bernie was by himself and could only shrug his shoulders and say “Sure” when I asked for a photograph.

Some of the costumes are self explanatory, others not so much. I’ll help where I can.

The three women with sticks and shades on are the three blind mice. In the second to last row of photographs next to Jason and his monster friend are the 80s candy “Nerds.” In the bottom row to the left are the cat and “crazy cat lady.”

Throughout my visits to Salem this past month I saw so many cute dogs. Whether in costume or au naturel, they all looked very cute!

Lulu is an 8 year old Australian Sheepdog. I love the different colored ears and the way she looks likes she is smiling in the second photo.

What a wonderful pose Bella struck for me! The 1 year old Havanese (yes I had to look it up too) looks cute in her Stegosaurus costume.

Honey got into the festivities with her black and orange collar.

Eva is a 2 and a half year old mixed breed rescue dog. Another happy dog in the city.

Fenway is a 5 year old Papipoo (Papillon Poodle mix). He also has his own Facebook page at Fenway’s Aventures as well as an Instagran account @FenwaysAdventures a Twitter account @FenwayPuppy as well as a Snapchat account: @TheFenwayPuppy. He’s got more socal media accounts than I do!

Unfortunately, I when I washed my pants the list of dogs and their ages and breeds were still in my pants pocket and my memory isn’t what it used to be. So, I apologize for not remembering all of these beautiful dogs’ names.

It is also important to remember what Salem is largely known for by the public, besides the fun and scary stuff. Each year, descendants and others honor the victims of the witch hysteria that unexpectedly put Salem on the map for fun and friendly tourism. At the Salem Witch Trials Memorial on Liberty St, roses are placed on each victim’s granite stone memorials during the week of Halloween. Passerbys and those with a connection to the victim, through blood or otherwise, often leave notes, cards, flowers and other items as well. Coins are a common item left behind by tourists and others sympathetic to the victims of this dark time.

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Twitter: New England Nomad (@waynefitz12):

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4 Comments | tags: dogs, fun, history, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Salem, Witch Trials | posted in Halloween, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Salem, salem Witch Trials, Uncategorized

October 29, 2016

Tall Bob The Bubble Man (Salem, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Event: October 22, 2016

Location: Essex St, Salem, MA (alternatively Salem Commons, North Washington Square, Salem, MA)

Hours: usually late morning, early afternoon (I saw him at around 1 o’clock) *His last show is Monday, Halloween*

Parking: There are several parking garages on New Liberty St and Congress St and off street parking (go early to ensure you get a spot if you want to see Bubble Man before Halloween)

Cost: Free, tips are apprreciated

Dog Friendly: Yes, dogs like bubbles too!

Handicap Accessible: Yes, the streets in Salem are handicap accessible

Web Site: Tall Bob The Bubble Man

Not everything in Salem this time of year is scary or gory. It is both unexpected and refreshing to see such a fun and heartwarming spectacle.

It’s great seeing such family friendly, good clean fun (literally), especially when there are ghosts, goblins and an assortment of other macabre characters doing their best to scare the visitors of Salem. Scares are not for everyone. But, everyone loves the bubbles, old and young alike, because as Bob says, “there ain’t love like bubble love.”

Tall Bob was first inspired by watching someone at Moonstone Beach in Cambria, California, about two years ago. The man he saw had made a bubble “as big as a bus”, according to Bobby. Since watching that, he was hooked. He poured over books and researched the art of bubble making. He even made his own bubble wand.

Tall Bob The Bubble Man (aka Bobby Carr) uses a very different type of bubble wand. His wand consists of two wood sticks connected by 4 ropes with one rope intersecting the other 4 ropes and a ball at the bottom of the ropes. This allows him to create some huge bubbles.

And Tall Bob The Bubble Man does not shortchange his audience. He is often out performing 8 or more hours, weather permitting, with the occasional break.

The Bubble Man did have to change his venue from the pedestrian walkway on Essex St to Salem Commons because people had complained the soap and water had made the walkway slippery. But, when I went to visit there he was at his original venue. He has also performed at Artist Row on Derby Square off Essex St and Lappin Park at the end of Essex Street.

The best part is watching the children react to the bubbles and try to touch and burst them.

But, hurry, Halloween of 2016 will be Tall Bob’s last show. Ever. He is moving to California this winter and hanging up his bubble sticks for good. I will be there for his monumental last show. See you there!

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17 Comments | tags: bubbles, fun, Halloween, Massachussetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Salem, Tall Bob The Bubble Man | posted in bubbles, fun, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Salem, Uncategorized

October 27, 2016

Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refugee – Fort River Division (Hadley, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: September 7, 2016

Location: 69 Moody Bridge Rd, Hadley, MA

Hours: Open everyday, sunrise until sunset

Cost: Free

Parking: There is a lot at the entrance of the trail for about 20-30 cars

Dog Friendly: Yes

Handicap Accessible: Yes

Highlights: wildlife, easy trail, flowers

Web Site: Sylvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge

Named after Silvio Ottavio Conte, a 16 term Republican member of the U.S. House of Reprentatives from Pittsfield, MA, the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge is and easy 1.1 mile trail dotted with trees, flowers and the occasional bird.

Broken into 9 divisions and 9 units across New England, the Sylvio O. Conte parks feature a variety of parks in Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Hampshire.

I chose to visit the Fort River Division in Hadley, Massachusetts during the week of the Labor holiday. So, the photos are not an accurate display of what the refuge looks like now. It is undoubtedly even more beautiful with all of the foliage this time of the year.

The refuge has mostly flat, well groomed trails with some raised platform walkways.

There are benches and lookouts along the way.

The views from the lookouts and on the trails are very pretty.

The flowers, plants and trees at the Sylvio O. Conte trail are also very pretty.

Although it was only the early part of September, I saw the signs of fall on the trail. Leaves covered parts of the trail and some of the leaves appeared to be turning color already.

As the name indicates, the Fort River runs through a portion of the trail.

The winding trails are very charming. They make you wonder what could be around the next corner. Even though it is only slightly more than a mile in length, the trail does provide a lot of surprises. One of the surprises you may find on the trail is wildlife. Deer, bobcats and coyote are said to populate the area. But, I didn’t see any of them during my visit. Oh, and then there are birds. There are lots of birds at Sylvio O. Conte trail. I photographed a few of them.

While it’s certainly not a challenging trail and you’re not likely to find too much wildlife or other surprises, I would still recommend this trail to anyone looking for a casual walk with some pretty scenery.

2 Comments | tags: birds, flowers, Hadley, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, plants, trails, trees | posted in birds, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized

October 25, 2016

Children’s Chimes Tower (Stockbridge, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: October 15, 2016

Location: Village Green West Main Street at the itersection of Rt. 102 and Rt. 103, Village Green next to town hall, Stockbridge, MA (next to the First Congregational Church)

Hours: The tower chimes with music at 5:30 p.m. EST from May 1 until Sep. 1

Cost: Free

Parking: There is limited parking available in a lot next to the tower

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: daily playing of children’s songs (from May 1 until Sep. 1)

Built at the former site of the first church in Stockbridge, MA, which stood from 1739 until 1785, the Children’s Chimes Tower (also known as the Dudley Field Memorial Tower) has been ringing seasonally since 1787.

The tower used to ring everyday at 5:30 between the first apple blossom and the first frost on the pumpkins. This has been changed to June 1 until September 1. The frost seems to come sooner each year so it’s probably still pretty much the same dates as it used to be.

As luck would have it, the operators of the chimes and people who care for the tower were moving in a piece of furniture during our visit. They agreed to give us have a tour.

Bruce is one of the chimes players. He says he plays a variety of different tunes for the children. “Three Blind Mice” is one of his favorites.

The three story tower stands over 7 meters off the ground from the console (roughly 23 feet). But, it seemed taller. The height of the highest bell is 20 meters (over 65 feet) bove ground. The wooden portion at the top of the tower represents the Stick style of architecture. Clocks are mounted in the central gables on all four sides of the roof. There are also 11 bells and the heaviest pitch is in E.

David Dudley Field, a wealthy New York lawyer and son of the prominent D.D. Field, gave it to the city of Stockbridge in memory of his grandchildren. His one condition was the chimes were to be rung everyday at 5:30 p.m. between, “apple blossom time and the first frost on the pumpkin.”

The tower has gone through some minor changes through the years. In 1973, the instrument was made larger with bells made by an unknown maker. It also began with 10 bells but has since added another bell for the current 11 bells. They have also added war memorials along the front and side of the towers, honoring those lost in war from the Stockbridge area. The names of the fallen are engraved on the memorials around the tower. Older photos of the tower show ivy growing on the sides. But, it has basically remained the same.

I wonder if this is the original bench that was stationed next to the tower.

Even this bird likes the chimes tower.

There’s something about seeing a tower like this and knowing they cater to a younger audience, playing nursery rhymes and other children’s themed music that brings out the kid in you, even in this hardened New Englander.

Below are some videos of the tower.

16 Comments | tags: Children's Chimes, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Stockbridge, tower | posted in Children's Chimes, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Stockbridge, tower, Uncategorized

October 24, 2016

Castle Rock (Marblehead, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: October 9, 2016

Location: 377 Ocean Ave (it is also listed as Castle Rock Lane), Marblehead, MA

Cost: Free

Hours: Open daily, dawn until dusk

Parking: There is lots of of unmetered, 2 hour, off street parking available on Ocean St

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: Views of the Atlantic Ocean, fishing, benches to watch the ocean

Once used as a lookout for arriving and departing fishing fleets as well as pirate and enemy ships, both British and French, Castle Rock is yet another hidden treasure along the North Shore of Massachusetts. Heck, it’s in my own backyard and I had not even heard of it until recently.

Also known as “Great Head”, Castle Rock gets its name for the castle-like looking home next to the lookout area. Now, it serves as a place to sit or stand and look out along the Atlantic Ocean and remember how small we really are in comparison.

It was a rainy, fall-like October morning (oddly enough during October) when I stopped by Castle Rock. It felt like the rain would never end and the water was very active. The entrance to Castle Rock is nestled between two homes, although I’m not sure if anyone resides in the castle-like home to the right of the lookout area.

The views were not diminished because of the inclement weather. I did, however, have to make a few trips to my car to dry off my equipment and try to keep my lens clear.

The 1.20 acre lookout is also known for its off-shore sailing, although there really isn’t a safe place to launch from Castle Rock. But, you get some great views of the boats that did dare to venture out in the choppy waters.

This brave fisherman made his way down the wet, slippery rocks and went fishing for stripers.

The rain didn’t stop the birds.

Castle Rock is another beautiful area in New England with some very pretty views. Below is a video of the area. You can hear the wind and the rain pelting down. It wasn’t a “beach day” by any means but it was still a great place to visit during any type of weather.

Similar Places In New England I Have Visited

Nubble Light House (York, ME)

Cliff Walk (Newport, RI)

Please connect with me on Facebook to view photos, videos, links and other content about New England not included in my blogs!

12 Comments | tags: birds, boats, fidhing, Marblehead, Massachussetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, travel, water | posted in Marblehead, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Uncategorized, water

October 21, 2016

Grace Trail (Plymouth, MA)

By New England Nomad

Date Of Visit: October 16, 2016

Location Nelson Memorial Park

Hours: Open everyday, dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

Highlights: biking and walking trail, flowers, scenic views, stones with words and phrases of encouragement on them

The G.R.A.C.E. Trail in Plymouth, MA, is not your average walking or biking trail. Standing for Gratitude, Release, Acceptance, Challenge and Embrace, the idea for this trail is the creation of author, life coach and TED X speaker and Plymouth, MA, resident Anne Jolles. The trail is designed to help people reflect on and overcome their struggles. According to Ann Jolles’ website, the trail is meant to get people from, “a state of confusion and overwhelm to one of hope and possibility.” Now, inspired by Jolle’s trail, GRACE trails are appearing all over the country.

There may be many grace trails but this one in Plymouth, MA, is where it all started.

Located next to Nelson Memorial Park, GRACE trail appears like any other trail. However, upon closer inspection, it is very different. Rocks and stones with words of encourage and placed along the side of the trail. At the entrance of the trail, there are rocks with words of encouragement (these rocks have gratitude and “just breath” written on them) and a notepad to write your own words of encouragement. The person who left a message on the notepad about how he or she left someone who was abusive and “free” is written underneath the message. It’s very inspiring and for the cynics out there who think that may have been a “faked” message (I know you may be out there), who cares? It’s something people could still draw inspiration and maybe a nudge to do the same thing. And that is what this trail is all about; inspiring others and grace.

Along the trail, you’ll find other signs of inspiration and grace.

I love how one of the rocks says to “accept…or not.” You don’t have to and should not accept certain things in your life.

These rocks encourage you to embrace the possibilities and “hang on” to hope.

There are messages of hope and inspiration everywhere

I know I could really use a place like this with all of its positivity and inspiration. I would go everyday if I lived closer to the trail.

The trail are very easy and level along at Grace Trail.

In addition to the pretty stones and encouraging words, there are scenic views and trails that go off into other areas like the trail below that leads to the beach. The views are very pretty along the trail.

The beach offers views of Plymouth Harbor and the surrounding area.

Since it was such an unseasonably warm autumnn day, there were an assortment of boats (motor powered and otherwise) in the water.

There is also remnants of a railroad that used to go by the area. Flowers and grass now grow where the train used to run.

The Grace Trail is also dog friendly. Lilly, a 9 year old Palmarin, enjoyed walking along the trail.

Similar Places I Have Visited In New England:

Clipper City Rail Trail (Newburyport, MA)

Canalside Trail (Turner Falls, MA)

6 Comments | tags: beach, dog, Massachusetts, Massachussetts, New England, photographs, Photography, photos, Plymouth, scenic, trail | posted in dog, Massachusetts, New England, photographs, photography, photos, Plymouth, scenic, trail, Uncategorized

October 19, 2016

Nelson Memorial Park (Plymouth, MA)

By New England Nomad

Dates of Visit: October 8, 2016 & October 16, 2016

Location: Nelson St, Plymouth, MA

Hours: Open everyday, dawn until dusk

Cost: Free

Parking: There are about 50 parking spots

Dog Friendly: Yes

Highlights: Free parking, handicap-accessible, picnic benches and tables, playground area, beach area, restrooms, boat docking area, seasonal water play area, bike path

Web Site: Nelson Memorial Park

When people think of Plymouth Massachusetts certain places automatically come to mind; Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth Rock, Nelson Memorial Park. No, that’s not a typo. In fact, Nelson Memorial Park may be one of the best kept secrets in Plymouth (except may be the Grace Trail).

Located approximately a mile from the aforementioned rock, Nelson Memorial Park is a family friendly park with activities for children, pretty views and ample parking.

The water activity area, called a “splash pad” is an area that shoots out water for children, and probably even a few adults and dogs, to play in. A sign states that due to water restrictions the pad will be on only on days when the air temperature is above 80 degrees. There’s little threat of that happening for some time, although we have had some unseasonably warm weather lately.

The park is relatively small but it still offers some very pretty scenery. I’ve always marveled at how clouds, even wispy clouds, can really accentuate the beauty of an area, especially by bodies of water.

Some kayakers took advantage of the warm weather and calm water.

There is also a bike path from Nelson Memorial Park that goes all the way to North Plymouth (roughly 1.5 miles from Nelson Memorial Beach or over 2 miles if you start from Grace Trail which is located behind the park’s parking lot).

Although it is a small park, Nelson Memorial is a wonderful, peaceful area just minutes from the busy waterfront and downtown areas and a must-see if you’re in the Plymouth area.

A boy and his dog take in the views at Nelson Memorial. This is why dogs are so great. No matter how bad your day is or how lonely you might feel, you always have your dog.