Fungus Among Us
We had one of the wettest July’s on record here in New Hampshire. And as we travel through August we are experiencing even more rain and humid conditions.
The unusually cool temperatures and constant moisture have brought an abundance of mushrooms to the forests and even to my lawn. In all the years I have been walking these woods, I have never seen anything like it!
I find myself fascinated over the diversity of these woodland fungi: Golden yellow caps with white spots on milky stalks; tiny fire engine red ones which look more like candy than fungus, and the traditional light brown smooth caps with a creamy base, only these are this size of small dinner plates. So many are bright, cheery and attractive. Others are dark, moldy, and misshapen. The challenge is to learn and know which ones are edible and which ones are poisonous.
Last week, I picked a small assortment with the thought of giving them a taste. I harvested both big and small, bright and drab. The adventurer in me could not wait to get home and saute up a feast.
I researched online and consulted a few foraging pages. I quickly began to realize mushroom identification and consumption is a more complicated process than I thought.
I took a step back.
Today, when out in the woods, I barely keep focus on the path before me. I scan either side of the trail and even up some of the trees. I spy a small patch of Black Trumpets - a tried and true variety I can clearly identify. I pluck just a few and carry them in my hat the rest of my walk. Once home, I consult with folks more experienced than I and confirm they are good and edible.
Tonight, I will add them to my supper!
In the quiet of my walk, I wonder what nature is showing me today. Though sometimes I am tired and don’t always want to go to the woods with pup, I know there is often a small gift waiting for me there. If only I will slow my mind, breathe deep of nature and let the woods speak to me.
Today, the forest fungi bring forth a few important life principles.
Growth still happens in dark places.
I must choose carefully which things to pick. Often the bright and shiny and colorful are not the safest or best.
In matters of uncertainty, it’s best to check in with someone further down the path and with a bit more experience.
Once you decide...enjoy!!
