Let me introduce you to a beautiful probably-Amanita pantherina mushroom that said “Fuck you, lawnmowers!” and popped up this spring. Well, early March. It counted as spring because damn, our March was warm. Must be all that global warming I hear so much about.

Of course, I could be wrong about the identity, I am not an expert. But it’s somebody from the Amanita family, and pantherina fits the bill. Besides, I love the name. If I ever get a panther, I shall name her Pantherina (spoiler: I will not ever have a panther, because Misha has taught me that having a cat that can’t bite your arms literally off is safest).

These apparently like conifers best, but I think this one was under oaks. I’ll have to double-check next time I go by. Sadly, the shroom will be gone, as the lawnmowers have arrived.

If you encounter one of these, admire its beautiful bon-bon shape and hue, but don’t try to eat it, because it is not chocolaty and may actually make you quite sick and delirious.

I love walking around by North Creek. I’ve been here for years, but I always find something new.