The Hoosier Cure

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a condensed version of a story from Chuck Clore that first appeared in Montgomery Memories. Chuck is a writer and artist who is a regular contributor to the monthly magazine. You can check out his articles on LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckclore and see his talented artwork at Society6 http://society6.com/chuckcloreconcepts

As the early-spring canopy flourishes above, forming a dark green tunnel over the winding road leading to Deer’s Mill and the Narrows, anticipation swells for the Hoosier rites of spring and the Mighty Morels.

In Montgomery County, there is only one sure-fire cure for the plague of cabin fever. So as soon as the crocus croak and spring has sprung, Hoosiers head to the deep woods to hunt the mighty morel.

Like an Easter egg hunt for the whole family, it is even better. Mother Nature is much better at hiding morels with a camouflage sponge look. What a challenge.

“I see one over there by the May apples!”

“Ooooh, oooh! There are three more.”

“Careful, don’t step on that one.”

“Wow! Look at the size of this one!”

“Shhhh, you’ll scare the stuffing out of them, and they will pop back underground.”

In the angler’s tale, the fish gets bigger every time the story is told. My reminiscing of a bucket full of sponges found near the Shades State Park magically expands to washtubs full, too heavy for one man to carry.

I miss those long walks among the May apples and rustling leaves. But most of all, I miss Pappy’s deep voice sharing imaginative recollections of the biggest mushrooms ever found.

– Story and graphics by Chuck Clore