Making Amadou from Tinderbox Fungus - the Otzi Ice Man's Fire-Starter

NOTE- RESCHEUDLED DUE TO ICE
PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR NEW FEBRUARY DATE

Join us at the Ringing Cedars Homestead (with its log cabin from the 1700's) as we explore how to make Amadou, an amazing material that humankind has relied upon for warmth and light since the dawn of time, as testified by the discovery of the 5,300 year-old hunter, the Otzi Man of the Otztal Alps, whose mummified body was found in a glacier near the Austro-Italian border in 1991.

Using ancient technology, modern tools, and a little elbow-grease, we'll prepare Amadou from the Tinderbox Fungus, and learn how to use it to capture, harness and transport fire.

We will also talk about the uses and medicines of other mushrooms that can be found and harvested in winter - Birch Polypore, Reisinous Polypore, and Turkey Tail.

From fire-starter to fire-mover, from medicine to bandages, to felt for mittens and hats - the Tinderbox Fungus is one amazing mushroom!

What you need:

• A good quality carving knife and be comfortable using it.
• A piece of old leather to use as a leg-shield (or bring an old leather jacket)
• Something to carry your Amadou home in - a small jar, paper bag, an envelope or a fabric- or leather pouch.
• A thermos of hot water/tea/coffee
• A hearty snack (not in plastic packaging that can blow away, pls)
• If you use reading glasses, you'll need them for this!
• Notebook, camera, pen if you like
• DRESS WARMLY! Layer up, and wear footwear that will keep your toes warm. Snow pants and "hot-shots" to toss into your mittens would be wise. We expect to have a small campfire, but please dress to be warm and comfortable so you can enjoy the work we do together. We can't control the weather!

Note - Soon after RSVP'ing, you'll receive a meetup-message with my email (Use the email for an e-transfer payment, or to discuss payment options with me). Those who have RSVP'd but not yet made payment will be put on the waiting list until they have a chance to pay. Paid members will be moved back to RSVP'd status, with their space reserved. This is to make sure those who are able to come have a space, and those who reserve show up! It's first come first severed - Thank you! - Jennie