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20 Ways to get into the Holiday Spirit

December 15, 2023 By Talya Tate Boerner

20 Ways to get into the Holiday Spirit

If you need help boosting your holiday spirit this year, maybe I can help. I’ve heard several friends say they can’t get into the mood of Christmas this year. Also, I’ve been slow to find my jingle too, which is not like me in the least. Of course with so much turmoil in the world, it’s easy to feel out of sync with the holiday. Here’s the thing—it is completely possible to worry and show concern for those suffering while still being grateful and celebrating the good in your life.

One doesn’t have to cancel the other.

Today I’ve jotted down 20 ways to get into the holiday spirit. These are ideas that work for me, and maybe, just maybe, one or two will up your holly jolly game too.

Continue Reading

Ode to a Snag Tree

November 10, 2023 By Talya Tate Boerner

Ode to a Snag Tree

Ode to a Snag Tree: True Story

I’ve had a major crush on this snag tree for going on ten years now. Ten years is nothing in the life of a wise old tree, but for me, having only moved to the area in 2014, I count him as one of my first and oldest Ozark friends.

For me, it was love at first sight.Continue Reading

There’s Nothing Common about the Common Buttonbush

September 7, 2023 By Talya Tate Boerner

Common Buttonbush

I’ve been enamored with the Common Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) since I first noticed it growing wild along the shoreline of Lake Norfork. Even when I knew nothing about this plant, it’s fragrant pom-pom flowers fascinated me. Seriously, I love any plant that looks Dr. Seuss-inspired.

Now that I understand its importance to wildlife, I’m one of its biggest cheerleaders.Continue Reading

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Hi! I'm Talya Tate Boerner. Writer, Reader, Arkansas Master Naturalist / Master Gardener, Author of:

THE ACCIDENTAL SALVATION OF GRACIE LEE (2016)

GENE, EVERYWHERE: a life-changing visit from my father-in-law (2020)

BERNICE RUNS AWAY (2022)

THE THIRD ACT OF THEO GRUENE (2025)

Recent Ramblings:

  • Why a Rainy Day Is the Best Time to Visit a Botanical Garden
  • Happy Birthday, Theo Gruene!
  • Sunday Letter~ 05.17.26
  • Sunday Letter: 03.29.26
  • Sunday Letter: February 22, 2026

Novels:

Coloring Books:

Fiction-Themed Coloring Books

Backyard Phenology:

Children’s Nature Book:

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THANKS FOR READING!

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