I did a three day, (well actually four day, had to update this) marathon of Chaga foraging, going to some of my favorite spots in the Blueridge mountains. One of my biggest finds highlighted one day and one piece I’ve been after for months was a huge triumph, on another day (took an hour to get that baby out of the tree, at least twenty feet up). Spring has finally broken through the winters long curtain and it is one of the best times of the year to go out exploring. Flowers are blooming, the leaves are growing back in and mushrooms are creeping out slowly from beneath the soil, waking from their slumber. The black bears are emerging once again and the sun is warmer at last. Having traveled some this winter and not getting out as much as I love to, has pushed me to go into the wild, like days of old. I once hiked everyday without fail for a whole year straight, almost. That passion never leaves me but sometimes sleeps within…it has been refreshing to get back at it! Foraging 3 of the last 4 days in a row brought my spirit some needed peace, I took a day to rest, soak in a hot tub and sit in a steam room to replenish, and have ramped up my adventuring and it feels so good, although it does ache alittle more as I embrace my forties!
As more and more people have come to learn about the healing power of Chaga and other medicinal mushrooms, I have an increased drive to share the gifts of the forest with them. The circle of interest has grown locally and providing healthy, healing, alternative, natural medicine is what I believe to be my calling. We are truly blessed in this region with a very diverse and special environment. Next month will begin the wondrous mushroom season and I cant wait to lead hikes and teach what I know. Stay tuned for more adventures and announcements of what’s going on!
