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Garvan Woodland Gardens

August 30, 2019 By Talya Tate Boerner 3 Comments

Garvan Woodland Gardens

Before my pictures get lost in the black hole of Photo Feed Land—yes that’s a place I can’t begin to understand or organize—I thought I’d post a few shots from our recent visit to Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Here’s a fun fact: members of the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks enjoy the perk of reciprocal membership with over 300 gardens across North America. It’s pretty satisfying to show our membership card and stroll right on through the gates without paying admission.

As an aside, I truly would like to visit all 320 gardens. John and I have only been to about ten (in Arkansas, Texas, and Colorado). This should keep our bucket list full for all our livelong days.

Anyway, with the holidays quickly approaching, I highly recommend a membership to the botanical garden closest to your home. Botanical gardens have become destinations for not only flowers and nature but also musical entertainment and special events throughout the year. Another perk!Continue Reading

Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park ~ a bucket list place!

February 21, 2018 By Talya Tate Boerner 5 Comments

Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park - gateway to the West!

Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park

I’ll just say this right off. Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park is now at the top of my favorite historical sites in Arkansas. A few weeks ago when I was in southeast Arkansas, I took a little side trip to this incredible spot.

That bucket list you have? Go ahead and add this park to it.

It’s located not too far from Brinkley, Arkansas.

Don’t Know Much About History…

My intro to American history came about via Keiser Elementary. You remember how that went down? We memorized a few facts about the Boston Tea Party and—boom—through the magic of history book time travel, we were on to the Battle of Gettysburg after a few brief paragraphs regarding the Louisiana Territory.

We skimmed through a plethora of battles and memorized the names of the U.S. presidents (many named John or James). There were oh-so-many dates to know! History, for the most part, lay flat on the page for me.

Insert the voice of Charlie Brown’s teacher…

There was one exception. (Technically two.) American Indians and early explorers of the New World. I found those brave souls to be incredibly intriguing, their way of life and community, the way they set out for parts unknown across seas and wilderness.

Oh my.

So what does this have to do with Arkansas and the Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park?

The Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park is located at the unassuming junction of Lee, Monroe, and Phillips County in southeast Arkansas.

What’s the significance?

The starting survey point for the Louisiana Purchase territory just happens to be located in a swamp inside this park.

This quiet, natural spot, only a few miles from the Mississippi River, served as the doorway to the American West. Only after THIS point was established could western land grants be issued, prospector claims be made, towns be platted.

Let that sink in.Continue Reading

Lucy and Annabelle go to Lake Fayetteville

November 21, 2015 By Talya Tate Boerner 4 Comments

Lucy and Annabelle go to Lake fayetteville

It took an entire year of living in Northwest Arkansas for Lucy and Annabelle to visit Lake Fayetteville. Finally last week, on a perfect fall day, it happened.  We went. What a scenic spot only minutes from our house.

Seriously, any time I can walk onto a dock, I feel my blood pressure lower. And there were several docks on Lake Fayetteville, each equipped with picnic tables and benches. Lucy and Annabelle were duly impressed, too. Of course it was their first time to see a lake, being anti-water dogs and all.Continue Reading

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Talya Tate Boerner


Hi! I'm Talya. 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 (Now Available!)

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Talya Tate Boerner books
Gene, Everywhere

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