Arkansas' Treasures

On a recent hike I photographed on of my favorite spots in Arkansas. Even though I've visited many times, this time was extra special as I took my sister and nieces on a "real" hike for the first time and shared my love of the Arkansas Wilderness.

One of the most pristine places in Arkansas is our beloved Buffalo River. The Parker-Hickman farm house is the oldest structure on the river, built between 1847-1849 by bothers Parker from Tennessee. Pictured here are the outbuildings built in the late 1800s. The farm was occupied by the Hickman family from 1912 to 1978. It was purchased by the National Park Service, preserved and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

This site is close to the Erbie Campground on the Buffalo River. It's a difficult drive in, but a relatively easy hike once you make it to the campground.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/119031152/parker-hickman-farm-buffalo-river

Found in the Woods-Turned into Treasure

The very first thing that you should know about our turtle shells is that they were found abandoned by their turtles. Our six acres on a hillside along the Arkansas River could be described as a little turtle sanctuary. We are careful to move live turtles out of harms way and work around them when they are mating or laying. We use organic pesticides to protect the environment, and we would never harm a turtle. 


Cory and I have always shared a love for turtles. What's not to like about the sweet things? One of our favorite things to see while scuba diving is a sea turtle, and our box turtles are like little free roaming pets. When we find their deserted shells, we just can't stand the thought of them wasting in the woods. Cory decided to clean each one in a bleach water solution, dry it thoroughly, and paint them with vibrant colors. This one is a one of a kind piece painted in bright turquoise. It measures 4.5 inches long, 3.5 inches wide and 2.5 inches high. If you would like to have a turtle shell of your own, please visit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CadronCreations

Seeing turtle shells lined up on my window sill in the garage seemed a little weird to me until I watched a few episodes of "American Stuffers" on Animal Planet. Then I realized we are just normal Arkansasans-whatever that means!

Muscadine Tea

I've recently finished making jam from 10 gallons of muscadines! There is a part of me that is just a little bit sad that it's all over until next year, but I do enjoy the feeling of accomplishment that comes with completing a task.

After picking the muscadines from two locations near my home in Arkansas, I made the jam according to my grandmother's jam recipe using only a small amount of spring water, muscadines and pure cane sugar.

Right now, I'm relaxing at home for just a little bit, sipping on Muscadine Tea and thought I would share the very simple recipe here.

Muscadine Tea

16oz of your favorite unflavored tea - I use only one tea bag for this size for a mild taste
1 heaping teaspoon of Muscadine Jam

While your tea is still hot from preparation, stir in a heaping teaspoon of Muscadine Jam. It's the perfect blend of fruity sweetness. Its great hot or cold, so enjoy your preference.

I encourage you to buy from local merchants, but if you can't find muscadine jam in your area, please visit my shop on ETSY and you will find some there while it lasts.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CadronCreations