Photograph of Jayden Franke taken on March 1, 2021, while waiting for an in-person class to start at Stephen F. Austin State University. The photograph reflects the time during COVID-19 when normalcy was trying to come back, but vaccines were not readily available to the public yet.

Northward facing photograph of the Cushing Public Library, a former train depot for the Texas & New Orleans - Southern Pacific line. It is a rectangular, single-story building painted yellow with brown accents. In the center of the north side of the building, there is a small section extended outward, with a decorative roof element above. There is a ramp up to the platform, which wraps around the east side of the building.

Eastward facing photograph of the Cushing Public Library, a former train depot for the Texas & New Orleans - Southern Pacific line. It is a small, one-story building with a railed platform around the building and a ramp leading up to the doorway. It is painted yellow with brown accents, and has decorative scallops in the gable ends of the roof.

Northward facing photograph of the Cushing, TX water tower, built in 1939 as seen from Oak, Ave.

Westward facing photograph of 7th street storefronts in Cushing, TX.

Northeastern facing photograph of the 7th Street Restaurant, abandoned and other storefronts in Cushing, TX.

Photograph of the boardwalk/blue building in Sacul, TX. Originally a town center housing a bank, store, and pharmacy, the location serves as a performance space for bluegrass and the 'Sacul Opry.'

Northeastern facing photograph of the Cushing, TX City Hall and water tower.

Photograph of the Sacul, TX water tower.

Delight in the Azalea Garden's enchanting spectacle at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum, where a mesmerizing array of vibrant pink azaleas bloom in full splendor. As nature's canvas comes alive with hues of pink, a couple embraces the opportunity to explore this picturesque haven, savoring the beauty and tranquility of the blooming landscape. Witness the harmonious blend of nature's wonders and human connection in this idyllic setting, creating a memorable experience at the heart of the arboretum.

The Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum is a breathtaking sight with its enchanting collection of azaleas. These vibrant and diverse flowering shrubs paint the landscape with a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a captivating and colorful display that attracts visitors from all around.

Embrace a delightful sight as azaleas come alive in vibrant hues at Mast Arboretum, situated within the serene grounds of Stephen F. Austin State University. Explore this botanical haven adorned with a mesmerizing array of azalea species, creating a breathtaking spectacle of blooming beauty. Amidst the peaceful setting, the azaleas showcase their resplendent colors, enchanting visitors and celebrating the wonders of nature's floral artistry.

Experience a burst of color as the arboretum comes alive with vibrant yellow and pink azaleas in full bloom. Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum offers a delightful springtime display, enchanting visitors with the beauty of nature's artistry.

Discover a vibrant display of azaleas in full bloom at Mast Arboretum, nestled within the picturesque grounds of Stephen F. Austin State University. This enchanting garden features a mesmerizing array of azalea varieties, adding a burst of color and charm to the landscape. As you stroll through the arboretum, be captivated by the beauty and diversity of these flowering wonders, creating a symphony of colors that celebrates the splendor of nature's floral tapestry.

Witness the brilliance of Swiss Chard with its canary yellow stems and deep green blistered leaves at Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. As a versatile and nutritious vegetable, Swiss Chard is known by various names, offering a reliable option for winter harvesting when spinach or lettuce may not thrive. With proper care and regular harvesting, this "cut and come again" plant continues to produce fresh leaves.

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of vibrant yellow and pink azaleas in full bloom at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum. Amidst a burst of colors, immerse yourself in this botanical wonderland, where lush greenery and delicate petals create a captivating sight to behold.

Butterweed, also known as Packera glabella, is a captivating upright succulent annual, standing 8 to 28 inches high. With stout stems and a profusion of yellow, daisy-like flowers in large clusters, it adds a burst of color to its preferred moist-to-wet habitats. The plant's unique leaves, deeply divided in rounded segments or lobes, create an interesting visual display, making it a standout choice for gardens and natural habitats.

Explore the enchanting Rosa banksiae, commonly known as Lady Banks Rose, within the picturesque setting of Mast Arboretum at Stephen F. Austin State University. This thornless climbing rose graces the landscape with clusters of double yellow blooms in spring or early summer, exuding a gentle fragrance that enchants garden enthusiasts. Adorn garden walls and trellises with this stunning ornamental, showcasing its dark green foliage, smooth brick red bark, and burgundy branches, creating a captivating scene amidst the arboretum's serene ambiance.

Tradescantia spp., or Spiderwort, is a native Texas perennial that delights with its multi-colored flowers. Thriving in partial shade, it brings vibrancy to gardens from spring to fall. Fast-spreading and attractive to pollinators, this low-water plant adds charm and color to any landscape.

A picturesque scene unfolds at the Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum as a woman passionately captures the splendor of the azaleas with her camera on stand. Amidst the colorful blooms, she embraces the beauty of nature, preserving its fleeting moments for eternity.

Discover the captivating charm of 'Autumn Moon' Azalea (Scientific Name: Azalea x ‘Shugetsu’) with its bright pinkish-purple flowers and white throats that deepen as the shrub matures. Standing at a graceful height of 3 feet, this evergreen shrub graces the arboretum with late spring blooms, thriving in partial shade to sun. Ideal for zones 7-9, 'Autumn Moon' adds a celestial touch to your garden landscape in Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum.

Discover the vibrant world of Swiss Chard at Stephen F. Austin State University Arboretum, a vegetable known for its beautiful red stems and green leaves. Part of the same family as beets, this versatile plant offers a slightly bitter flavor reminiscent of spinach. Both the leaves and stalks are edible, making it a delightful addition to salads, stir-fries, and soups. Explore the culinary possibilities of this nutritious and visually appealing vegetable amidst the natural beauty of the arboretum.

The green anole (Anolis carolinensis), often mistaken for a chameleon, captivates with its color-changing abilities and adaptability. This common lizard features a slender build, a narrow head, and a remarkably long tail that can be twice its body length. From gray-brown to bright green, its color varies, and the males display a pink dewlap. While thriving in the southeastern U.S., including the eastern third of Texas, these agile creatures prefer greenery, occasional shade, and a moist environment. Whether basking in trees, shrubs, or even walls and fences, the green anole adds a touch of magic to its habitat.

In this heartwarming photograph, an elderly couple can be seen exploring the enchanting azalea garden at the Mast Arboretum. Hand in hand, they stand by an informational sign, carefully reading about the magnificent piedmont azalea (Rhododendron canescens). Their shared curiosity and appreciation for nature's wonders shine through as they embark on this delightful journey together, cherishing the beauty of the arboretum and creating cherished memories amidst the vibrant blooms.