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Go Forth and Forage: A Must-Have Guide for Mushroom Foraging

March 8, 2025 0

Spring is elusive here in the Appalachian forest. I’m excited for spring adventures being in full bloom! Living in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, I love exploring the woods. Still, this year, I have a new guide in hand to take my mushroom foraging skills to the next level—Go Forth and Forage: A Guide to Foraging Over 50 of the Most Common Edible & Medicinal North American Mushrooms by Whitney Johnson (a.k.a. the Appalachian Forager).

Foraging for wild foods has seen a huge rise in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason! There’s something incredibly rewarding about finding, harvesting, and preparing food straight from nature. Mushrooms, in particular, are fascinating—nutritious, delicious, and abundant in the right seasons. But for beginners and experienced foragers alike, the challenge has always been how to confidently and safely identify the right species. That’s where this book comes in.

A Personal Foraging First in the Rockies

The first time I ever went mushroom foraging, I was living in Colorado. A Russian friend took us deep into the Rocky Mountains and introduced us to the world of wild mushrooms, teaching us how to identify which ones were safe to eat and which to leave untouched. It was an unforgettable experience—wandering through alpine meadows and dense pine forests, filling our baskets with chanterelles and boletes. That adventure sparked a lifelong curiosity about foraging, and now, living in the Appalachian Mountains, I’m eager to expand my knowledge and put it to use in a whole new landscape.

A Season-by-Season Mushroom Foraging Guide

One of the standout features of Go Forth and Forage is how it walks readers through the process of mushroom hunting in all four seasons. From morels and woodears in spring, to black trumpets, chicken of the woods, and boletes in summer, and lion’s mane, oyster, and enoki mushrooms in fall and winter, this book is packed with detailed identification cues, full-color photos, and responsible harvesting tips to ensure you can forage safely and ethically.

Each mushroom profile includes:
✔ Easy-to-follow identification guides
✔ Tips for safe and responsible foraging
✔ Culinary preparation advice and recipes
✔ Guidance on medicinal uses, including tinctures and teas

More Than a Mushroom Guide—A Forager’s Handbook

Whitney Johnson’s signature down-to-earth and folksy tone makes Go Forth and Forage not just a reference book, but an enjoyable read that feels like learning from a trusted friend. Beyond identification, she dives into the skills every successful forager needs, including:

🍄 How to locate wild mushrooms (hint: tree identification is key!)
🍄 Understanding mushroom anatomy for better identification
🍄 Foraging gear recommendations—from knives and bags to clothing and boots
🍄 How to use spore prints for accurate species confirmation
🍄 Common mushroom myths debunked
🍄 The ethics of responsible foraging—because sustainability matters!

Meet the Appalachian Forager

If you haven’t come across Whitney Johnson yet, you’re in for a treat! She’s built an incredible online community with nearly 2 million followers across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook (@appalachian_forager), where she shares educational and quirky videos about foraging, Appalachian culture, and self-sufficiency. A proud Appalachian through and through, she’s not only a foraging expert, but also a wildcrafter, gardener, and cook who loves sharing her deep-rooted connection to the land.

Why This Book is a Must-Read for Aspiring and Seasoned Foragers

Whether you’re completely new to mushroom foraging or you’ve been exploring the woods for years, Go Forth and Forage is an invaluable resource that belongs on your bookshelf (or better yet, in your foraging bag!). The book strikes the perfect balance between science, tradition, and practicality, making it an essential guide for anyone eager to explore the wild world of mushrooms.

This spring, I can’t wait to put Whitney’s wisdom to the test, stepping into the Appalachian forest with a newfound confidence in identifying and harvesting mushrooms safely and ethically. If you’ve ever been curious about foraging, now’s the time to dive in—and this book is the perfect place to start!

📖 Go Forth and Forage is available now—grab your copy and get ready for a season of delicious discoveries!

Have you ever tried foraging for wild mushrooms? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about your favorite finds! 🍄✨

20 Best North Carolina High Country Fall Family Activities!

September 16, 2024 2

 

Since we have lived in the North Carolina mountains full-time since May, I’ve been craving fall! It can’t come soon enough. 

Here are my top 20 favorite activities—the ones I’ve been dreaming about—and now that we live here, I get to enjoy them all season! 

  1. Bouldering at Hebron Rock Colony
  2. New River pumpkin patch and corn maze
  3. Boone Farmer’s Market
  4. Stopping to shop for antiques in quaint little shops (they are everywhere!)
  5. Smores on the fire pit
  6. Caramel apples at Kilwins’s in Blowing Rock
  7. Grabbing a pretzel (or the Falafel!) at Lost Province Brewing Co.
  8. Shopping for stocking stuffers in Blowing Rock (I like to get a jumpstart!)
  9. Mast General Store in Valle Crucis
  10. Apple Picking at The Historic Orchard at Altapass
  11. Dinner on the patio at Over Yonder
  12. Hiking, Hiking, Hiking
  13. The fall colors! Need I say more?
  14. A picnic on the grass by the New River
  15. Grabbing a Dutch Creek icecream
  16. Music in the Park at a variety of places! 
  17. Spending time with the boys (Eben is off to grad school, but I look forward to him coming home for fall break!) 
  18. Cozy movie night with the giant sliding glass doors open and the fireplace roaring
  19. Going for long bike rides! 
  20. Sitting in the hot tub by the creek!

Do you have a fall family tradition that you look forward to? I would love to hear it. Leave a comment below!

4 Eco-Friendly Picnic Must-Haves for End of Summer

August 26, 2024 0
4 Eco-Friendly Picnic Must-Haves for Summer

 

As summer ends, I’m determined to squeeze in ONE more picnic! When we lived in Florida, my family spent most of our weekends picnics at the beach. My most precious memories include Eben and a picnic blanket – the perfect setting for mother-son chatting.

Now, he’s a grown man (23! WHAT?), I make sure that when we do spend time together, I’m in the moment (and yes, we still chat like never before!)

Here are some eco-friendly picnic goodies to inspire you to get outside for one more summer picnic:

1. A Cozy Picnic Blanket:
I love a good picnic blanket, and now that we are empty nesters, I’m determined to have more romantic picnics (just the husband and me!). I love these picnic blankets. How do I choose which one?

2. A Hydration Station:
The essential item to pack on a picnic is water—it’s crucial to stay hydrated on hot summer days (even these end-of-summer ones!). These are our favorite glass carafes; we always use them for multiple flavors of tea in the fridge!

3. A Good Read:
Snuggle up with my boys is my favorite (we do scary movie nights when Eben visits from grad school), and next, snuggling up with a good book! This one seems up my alley; I love a good charcuterie board!

4. A Picnic in a Basket:
Of course, I will need something to pack all the goodies in. This eco-friendly picnic basket is on my list! I have wanted a formal picnic basket forever!

Do you have a thing for picnics, too? What is your picnic must-have?

8 Reasons to Shift From Private to Public Transportation

August 29, 2022 0
Styled Stock Photos for Instagram and Social Media, Flatlays, Social Squares from the SC Stockshop

Public transportation plays a significant role in our society today. People in large cities around the world rely on buses and trains for convenient and affordable travel. Additionally, many methods of public transportation have embraced new technological advancements in order to attract more people. If you’re still unsure about moving away from private travel, here’s a look at some important benefits of public transportation.

Community Asset

Many state government leaders believe that public transportation improves community relations. Public transportation also helps promote an active lifestyle. Riding public transportation likely means that you have to walk to your nearby stop, which is a form of exercise to help you stay in shape. Health experts recommend that people perform at least 15-20 minutes of physical activity every day. You could fulfill that requirement simply by riding public transportation on a regular basis.

Higher Fuel Quality

Using public transportation reduces your carbon footprint for several reasons. These types of vehicles use more eco-friendly fuel sources, for one. Public transportation vehicles receive high marks for utilizing electric resources as fuel. The vehicles are also more fuel efficient than other vehicles that also rely on gas. Less fuel is consumed utilizing public transportation compared to driving a public car on the road.

Mass Appeal

Public transportation is a major asset to people who live in urban and rural areas who don’t have the ability to drive on a regular basis. Public transportation helps people reach their intended destinations to complete tasks when they would be immobile otherwise. To that end, research shows that over 95% of public transportation buses are equipped to accommodate people in wheelchairs. In that sense, public transportation helps ensure that no one is left behind.

Stimulates the Economy

Supporting public transportation helps improve the local economy. When you use public transportation, you’re supporting the workforce and small businesses in the area. Perhaps you decide to shop at a local store near your bus or train stop. Popular transportation systems also stimulate the local community’s workforce. This helps create more jobs and also makes it easier for people who don’t own a vehicle to make a living.

Public Transportation Is Eco-Friendly

Recent data shows that traveling using the most common methods of public transportation (bus or train) is more environmentally friendly than driving your own car or flying. For reference, with a full tank, helicopters can usually fly around two and a half to five hours before running out of fuel. Public transportation can help you reach your destination way more efficiently. It really can’t be said enough; utilizing public transportation is a great example of green living practices.

Minimizes Traffic

Getting stuck in traffic is every person’s worst nightmare. Traffic jams also have a negative impact on local infrastructure. However, turning to public transportation is a potential solution. Public transportation can help reduce wear and tear on highways and other roads because there are fewer vehicles on the road at once. Utilizing public transportation also reduces the likelihood of potential traffic jams.

Reduces The Risk Of Serious Accidents

Driving requires all of your attention. However, many drivers have caused accidents because they were talking or texting while driving. Driving under the influence is also a major issue. Even for a first DUI offense, penalties can include license suspension, fines, community service, mandatory attendance at an alcohol program, mandatory overnight incarceration, and the required installation of a car ignition locking device. Relying on public transportation allows you to relax and avoid being overwhelmed by the pressures of driving. You won’t have to worry as much about evolving road conditions or the behavior of other drivers on the road.

Helps You Save Money

Public transportation also helps you save money in the long term because you aren’t spending as much money on fuel every month. Driving less frequently can also lower your car insurance premiums. Plus, many public transportation programs offer loyalty rewards programs to help you qualify for future discounts.

There are many advantages to using public transportation. Consider switching over to help support your community and the environment.

Making Your Mode of Travel Eco-Friendly

August 4, 2022 0

The world needs our help. Over generations, people have damaged the planet, almost to a point of no return. Thankfully, we are now growing increasingly aware of just what we’re doing that damages the environment and promotes climate change, and what we can cut out to reduce pollution and improve our carbon footprint. It really is important that each and every one of us takes steps to help the environment through lifestyle change and living a more eco-friendly existence. But where should you get started? One good area of focus to take into consideration is your primary mode of travel – how you get from A to B. Here’s some information that can help.

Driving

Driving, of course, isn’t the most environmentally friendly mode of travel. But for some of us, it is currently essential. Perhaps you live somewhere without great public transport options. Maybe you work night shifts and can’t take public transport to work. Whatever your reason for wanting to drive, it’s good to know that there are things you can do to improve its impact. For example, you could opt for an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle over a vehicle that solely uses fossil fuels. You can ride share, picking others up en route somewhere rather than you all driving separately. You can look into New Energy Recovery Wheel Installations. Small changes can make a big difference.

Walking

If you are able to walk comfortably, you may want to consider walking to locations that are within walking distance. All too many of us automatically opt for alternative transport options when our own two feet can take us where we need to go. Walking is the most eco-friendly mode of transport as it’s entirely natural and has no emissions. Plus, it’s free and good for your overall health and wellbeing too! To walk as safely as possible, make sure to follow your common sense and the rules of the road. Always stay on sidewalks or paths where they are available and use designated crossing points. If you are walking at night, or in spots with low visibility, make sure to wear bright and reflective clothing, which will help drivers to see you.

Cycling

If you need to travel long distances but want a physical challenge and to keep fit, cycling could be a great option. Here, you only need a bicycle, a helmet, and any reflective gear or lights you need for nighttime riding and you’re good to go. You can get to places much faster on two wheels, and you can also save a lot of emissions. Just make sure to take your safety seriously. Drivers can often grow impatient with cyclists and try to overtake, so make sure to keep an eye on your surroundings and avoid sudden turns. Make sure to indicate your turns using your hands and to take cycle lanes wherever possible. 

Electric Scooters

Electric scooters, or “E-scooters”, are becoming more readily available for public use in cities and villages. These are a great options that is very environmentally friendly. Not only do they have low emissions, but multiple people get plenty of use out of them every day. Just makes sure that you are using them properly. You should only ride on roads in a responsible way while wearing a helmet and following the rules.

Public Transport

Of course, any mode of public transport tends to be preferable for the environment. This is shared transport that is efficient and has low emissions per passenger. The train, the bus, the tube, the tram… whatever your local area offers, you should try it out. Many locations will offer discounted rates for those using public transport on a regular basis. This could range from weekly or monthly passes to passes that are designated for particular groups, such as teens or the elderly. You may even be entitled to a public transport pass if you are disabled or elderly and may struggle to get around otherwise. Make sure to check timetables before heading to your public transport stop, as this will ensure that you get there on time. You may also want to make use of apps such as city mapper for longer or more complex journeys. These apps will tell you exactly what transport to take to get from one location to another. This can give you more confidence while you’re traveling.

These are a few options that you might like to try out while making your mode of transport eco-friendly. Take them into consideration, try a few out and you should find that something works for you. Of course, this may be a combination of options depending on particular situations or circumstances.

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