As we were driving home the other day, my dog started to squirm in the car doing the "I gotta go now dance", and so it was by chance that I pulled over at Capisic pond for a pit stop. With three kids in tow, nothing is ever quick, and we ended up meandering the short trail at twilight on Saturday joined by only a few mosquito's.

Both kids and dog were happy to be bounding along the smooth paths. The pond's natural beauty was not lost on any of my children. We were joined by several Swallows dive bombing the pond for bugs, and at least 15 crows chased a large Red Tail Hawk from their obvious nesting area, while the Red Wing Black birds flitted from one Cat of Nine Tails to next.

The pond is nestled between Capisic and Brighton Ave, and even though you are well off the street, only dogs with excellent recalls should be there off leash. We encountered many people without dogs having a quiet walk. Each time before we passed them I was sure to call my dog and have her pass them while at my left side and under control. If you go with your dog, please remember that it is not a dog park, but a city park that graciously allows dogs.

Closer to Capisic Street there is a large field of Lupines, where I had to run back this morning to get pictures of. Just gorgeous! To me Lupines are Maine.

If you go-
-Be considerate of people and the houses near the park. Please don't be the person with the runaway dog that ruins it as an off leash area for the rest of us.

-Park at Lucas Street off Brighton Ave to begin. You will have the pond on one side and private fencing on the other. The closer you get to Capisic, the closer you will be to people's homes and their unfenced yards. Be sure to keep your dogs out of neighbors yards.

-Don't overestimate your dogs recall. The park is surrounded by very busy streets.

-Bring binoculars. Fantastic birding spot.

What we like-

Nestled in a neighborhood, what is not to like about the natural beauty and the peacefulness of the pond. Another wonderful oasis is the city.
Great birding spot. Convenient place for a pit stop if you and your dog find yourself in the area.

Kids love the small paths that lead to the water. Each one makes them feel like explorers.

What we don't like-
Too close to civilization and busy roads to really run your dogs, but great for the dog that stays close. The run off at Rockland Street can get quite rank.

Capisic
(pronounced cap-piss-ic , a name that still makes my kids giggle)