Today I went on a mushroom foray at the arboretum at the University of Guelph. I previously had no knowledge of this place other than hearing people talk about it. I am glad I finally got to go. The site is off limits to the general public so it was a special treat to venture inside the old growth forest. With baskets and knives at hand, our class began our adventure of hunting for a variety of mushrooms. I had never paid attention when I'd pass mushrooms growing on a tree or log as I passed by in a forest. I think I will give them a second look now. I did not know there was such variation within mushrooms. To be honest I thought all mushrooms were a shade of white or looked like the one's from Super Mario.
It was fun discovering something and people would gather to have a look. It made me feel like a child again. You know when you would catch a frog and have to show everyone? It was that same feeling of excitement through discovery. I really learned a lot today. Not just about the types of mushrooms and their bizarre names (Witch's Butter), but also that I really enjoy going for walks in nature. Theres something so calming about removing yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city, work and school. Its great to have a look at the smaller things in life and discover how wonderful they are.
