#dr. mycol the fancy swampshroom

[rootedincuteness]

New Year's Diet... Sort Of?

Dr. Mycol: "Hello, friends! Now that we're into the new year, it's time to start shedding all those holiday pounds. Or ounces, if you're my size."

Dr. Mycol: "There are many ways to accomplish this. You can exercise, or you can eat healthier foods. For example, vegetables or fruit, like these apples here."

Dr. Mycol: "Even nuts that have protein and cheese that has calcium and other vitamins can be good for you."

Mudpie: "Cheeeeeese, you say?" Dr. Mycol: "Hey, Mudpie! Um. Is that... a cheesecake?" Mudpie: "Healthy cheesy-cake. Like you said." Dr. Mycol: "No! I said cheese! Like parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar... those kinds of cheeses!" Mudpie: "This has ricotta and cream cheese. Nice and healthy. Mudpie approves."

Dr. Mycol: "Mudpie... it also has a lot of fat, sugar, and other things that aren't healthy in it." Mudpie: "Hmm... you know... Mudpie wants to listen... but... it's like... cheesy-cake is interfering with signal or something." *shrugs* "Oh well."

Dr. Mycol: "Mudpie, I really don't think that's heal-" Mudpie: "Mudpie can't talk now. Eating. Come back tomorrow, please and thank." Dr. Mycol: *long sigh* "Well... may I... at least... have some?" Mudpie: "That you may. Friends ask, Mudpie provides." Dr. Mycol: "Thanks, pal."

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And a very Merry Mushmas to you too, from the mushies over at the Roots & 'Shrooms Gang! 💚❤️

Merry Christmush!!

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🍄 Happy National Mushroom Month! 🍄

Love, the adorable mushies of The Roots & 'Shrooms Gang

September is National Mushroom Month, a time to love your local mushies and appreciate all that they do for you. So go out and spread some mush love today! =)

[rootedincuteness]

Medical Attire

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “There we go. Nice, sensible stripes. A very professional sweater, if I do say so myself.”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Oh, hey, Mycol. How are you?” Dr. Mycol: *!!*

Dr. Mycol: “Hello, Miss Gem. I’m um... I am well.” Nurse Strawberry Gem: “You have the same sweater as me...”

Dr. Mycol: “Hmm? Oh! This? Well, so I do! Look at that! Heh, heh!” Nurse Strawberry Gem: “How come?”

Dr. Mycol: “I um...” *gathers the courage to just blurt it out* “I deeply admired your impeccable medical fashion sense and sought to replicate it, my dear Nurse Gem.” Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Oh. Oh my.” Dr. Mycol: “Yeah.” *wiggle eyebrows*

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “I’m flattered. Truly.”

*smooch!*

[rootedincuteness]

An Apple A Day...

Dr. Mycol: “I see you’ve got some nice healthy fruit here. What a great way to start off the new year.”

Mycol’s Human: “Oh, I love fruit. I’ve got apples, oranges, clementines...”

Mycol’s Human: “Oranges are my favorite!” Dr. Mycol: “And very good for you as well!”

Mycol’s Human: “Orange juice is great too.” Dr. Mycol: “Well, yes, but why have that when you can just eat an orange?”

Mycol’s Human: “Because it goes great with this!” Dr. Mycol: “Oh... n-no no... that’s not healthy. Beer is definitely not part of a balanced-”

Mycol’s Human: “Have you ever tried a cold wheat beer with like two or three ounces of OJ? It’s the best! And it counts as a fruit serving!” Dr. Mycol: “You may be missing the point here...”

[rootedincuteness]

New Year's Responsibility

Dr. Mycol: "Hello, friends! Happy New Year's Eve! On this day of celebrations that may involve alcohol, please remember to imbibe responsibly."

Dr. Mycol: "Take me, for instance. I'm having tea right now, so that I can enjoy alcoholic beverages later on and not overdo it."

Mudpie: "Mudpie is drinking responsibly today too. I have a great responsibility to finish every open bottle, so it's not wasted."

Dr. Mycol: "That's... not what I meant at all. I meant to enjoy things in moderation."

Mudpie: "Mudpie knows how to drink already. Don't need a moderator."

Dr. Mycol: "N-no... What I mean is not to drink too much! It isn't good for you!"

Mudpie: "Mudpie has very wide definition of too much." *winks*

Dr. Mycol: "Well... whatever your personal limits might be, just be safe this holiday season, alright everyone?" Mudpie: "Let's drink to that!" Dr. Mycol: "Sure, why not."

[rootedincuteness]

For the Love of Carrots: Part II

Resident Human: "It's time to build our carrot cake!" Dr. Mycol: "Yay! Uhm... what are you doing?" Resident Human: "The cakes plump when you bake them, so you have to cut the top off the bottom layer so the top layer will lay flat." Dr. Mycol: "Ohh... Hehe, it's like a cake pancake."

Dr. Mycol: "Ooooh, are those walnuts?" Resident Human: "They are!" Dr. Mycol: "Wait, caramel sauce? That's not very healthy." Resident Human: "We're making a cake. It's meant to be a treat, not health food."

Dr. Mycol: "Icing too?" Resident Human: "Yep! Basically, instead of taking the time to make candied walnuts, we're just going to make a caramel and walnut filling. The extra icing is just so that it's not too watery." Dr. Mycol: "I see. Well, walnuts are good for you..." Resident Human: "That's the spirit!"

Resident Human: "We'll put this on top of the bottom layer, and then put the other layer of cake on top of that."

Dr. Mycol: "That smells heavenly."

Resident Human: "Some icing around the edge, so the filling doesn't leak out..." Dr. Mycol: "Fascinating..."

Resident Human: "Ta-da!" Dr. Mycol: "What a beautiful cake!"

Dr. Mycol: "Wow... now that's a cake!" Resident Human: "Thank you, I try."

Resident Human: "Although... I think next time I should make a bit more filling. It kindof soaked into the cake."

Dr. Mycol: "Nonsense, I bet it's still just as yummy!"

Dr. Mycol: "Speaking of how yummy this cake might be..." Resident Human: "Yes, we can eat it now." Dr. Mycol: "I thought you'd never say so!" Resident Human: "What happened to all that patience you said you had?" Dr. Mycol: "Well, patience in the face of cake is very difficult, you see..." Resident Human: "Mm-hmm."

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For the Love of Carrots: Part I

Resident Human: "Alright, today we're going to make carrot cake! I am told by Dr. Mycol here that carrots are good for us." Dr. Mycol: "Well... yes, but... I am not sure that putting them in cake is the best thing..."

Resident Human: "We'll still get the nutritional benefits of the carrots, just with... some sweetness around them. Right? Dr. Mycol: "It is my professional opinion that... yes. Yes, we will." *winks*

Resident Human: "Alright, then. Let's get you out of this lab coat, though. You don't want to get anything from your lab into the cake, now do you?" Dr. Mycol: "Oh, right, good call there. Safety first!"

Resident Human: "It's a really simple recipe, so this is all we'll need."

Dr. Mycol: "Do you see Mudpie anywhere?" Resident Human: "Nope, you're fine to beat those eggs." Dr. Mycol: "Excellent."

Resident Human: "Ready for the oven!" Dr. Mycol: "But... wait... I don't see any carrots. We didn't put any in." Resident Human: "This mix has little carrot bits already in it, so we're all good on carrots." Dr. Mycol: "Oh, really? How convenient!"

Dr. Mycol: "So we put it in the oven, and then we eat it?" Resident Human: "Not exactly. We need icing... and a little something special." Dr. Mycol: "What's that?" Resident Human: "You'll see! For now, let's bake it first."

Dr. Mycol: "Wow... It smells wonderful!" Resident Human: "It really does. Fresh, warm cake is the best, isn't it?"

Dr. Mycol: "It sure is! But... why did we bake two cakes?" Resident Human: "That's the fun part. We're going to add something a little extra to this cake. A filling!"

Dr. Mycol: "Now?" Resident Human: "No, we have to let them cool first. We'll let them sit for now. Tomorrow we'll make the filling and build the final cake." Dr. Mycol: "Good thing I'm a patient 'shroom. Mudpie would never wait that long to eat cake." *giggles* Resident Human: "Haha, you're right, he wouldn't."

To be continued...

[rootedincuteness]

PSA: Staying Safe Outdoors

Dr. Mycol: “Hello! Your friendly neighborhood mushroom doctor here. Today, I’d like to speak a little bit about- Erm... hold on. We’ve got a piece of errant grass here...”

Dr. Mycol: *tucks it under his arm* “There we are. As I was saying, I’d like to talk to you about air quality and staying safe while outdoors."

Dr. Mycol: “Some of us right now are living with the effects of forest fires, which are sending soot particles as well as other toxic particulates and gasses into the air. Fires can happen as a part of a forest’s natural life cycle, and sometimes plants even need fire to help their seeds be released or to germinate, but in this case, these fires are largely due to very dry conditions. The increase in fires is connected to global warmings and climate change, which cause extreme weather events and droughts leading to more forest fires.”

Dr. Mycol: “Although the sky looks beautiful today and there is no odor in the air, a few days ago that was not the case. It is best to stay indoors if the air is hazy, yellow or orange, or has an overwhelming odor of burning wood, like it did the other day. That means there are particulates in the air, tiny little specks of debris from the burning fires. It isn’t good to breathe that into your lungs or get it in your eyes.”

Dr. Mycol: “Even on a pretty day like this, there could be toxins in the air that we can’t see, such as very fine particulates or invisible gasses. If you are sensitive to these things, if you have allergies, or if you are immunocompromised, you may want to wear a mask outdoors if the air quality is poor. I know it isn’t fun or comfortable, but you’ll have fewer health effects long-term as well as reduced discomfort from allergic responses if you wear a mask when air quality is poor. ”

Dr. Mycol: “How do you know if the air quality is poor or not? Pay attention to weather reports on the news or even download government and weather service apps on your mobile device. Many have ratings of air quality, ozone levels, particulate levels, and warnings about haze, smog, and other hazards you need to be aware of. This way, if you’re thinking of being outside a lot, you can check to make sure it’s safe first, and wear a mask if you want to be even safer.”

Dr. Mycol: “If you do have to go outside when air quality is poor, change clothes and take a shower when you get home if you can. This will help remove residue off your skin and hair, so it won’t continue to affect you or get on more of your clothes or bed linens. Finally, drink plenty of water so that your body can more quickly flush out any toxins and particulates you do happen to breathe in. Staying hydrated when out of doors is good to do anyway, especially during Spring and Summer, to avoid things like dehydration and heat stroke.” 

Resident Human: “Thanks so much, Dr. Mycol. I’m sure a lot of people out there will be thankful for your helpful advice.” *shakes his arm nub*

Dr. Mycol: “You’re very welcome, I’m happy to help!”

Dr. Mycol: “Stay safe and hydrated, folks, but do still continue to have fun. We don’t have to stop doing all the things we love just because there are hazards to be aware of. All we need to do is keep ourselves informed and take the proper precautions to ensure that we’ll be as safe as possible while we live our best lives.”

Resident Human: “Well said, my fungal friend.”

Dr. Mycol: “I try.” *smiles under mask*

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Health Cake?

Mycol’s Human: “So... you know how you’re always telling me to eat healthy? Well, what about carrots?”

Dr. Mycol: “Oh yes! Carrots are very good for humans!”

Mycol’s Human: “Great! Because today we’re going to bake a carrot cake!”

Dr. Mycol: “Umm... that’s...”

Mycol’s Human: “It’s healthy, right? Look, the box says it has real carrots in it.”

Dr. Mycol: “That’s not what I meant by ‘healthy’ at all.”

Mycol’s Human: “Oh, come on. Look, we’re also going to add some yummy raisins.”

Dr. Mycol: “Oh. Well. Raisins are certainly very healthy...”

Mycol’s Human: “See? You know you want in on this. I’m all ready to go. Let’s bake!”

Dr. Mycol: “Alright!”

Mycol’s Human: “All we have to do is mix everything together... oil, water, eggs, cake mix...”

Dr. Mycol: “What about the raisins?”

Mycol’s Human: “They go on top. They sink into the cake while it bakes.”

Dr. Mycol: “Ohhh...”

Mycol’s Human: “Doesn’t that look delicious?”

Dr. Mycol: “It does, and it smells good too.”

Mycol’s Human: “Ready to stick it into the oven?”

Dr. Mycol: “Let’s do it!”

Mycol’s Human: “Well? What do you think?”

Dr. Mycol: “Oh, it smells absolutely amazing.”

Dr. Mycol: “I think you’ve done a stellar job.”

Mycol’s Human: “Thank you, I try.”

Mycol’s Human: “And it’s health cake, right? Since it has carrots and raisins in it?”

Dr. Mycol: “Doctor’s seal of approval!”

Dr. Mycol: “Might we... be able to eat some of the results now?”

Mycol’s Human: “We sure can, little guy.”

Dr. Mycol: “Most excellent!”

Mycol’s Human: “A moist and delicious success!”

[rootedincuteness]

@itsthebeastpeddler​

@retr0flesh

Dr. Mycol: “It seems I have some fans. I must put my newfound fame to good use and only use it responsibly!”

Dr. Mycol: *clears throat and begins medical PSA* “Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables! Get lots of exercise! Drink water! And above all, always look both ways before crossing a street!”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “That was a very inspired speech, Mycol.”

Dr. Mycol: “Oh, heh heh... Hello, Gem. Yes, I was just responsibly informing the public of some important things.”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Well you have a great voice for it. And you look very good in that lab coat.”

Dr. Mycol: “Really? You think so? It’s... actually a little bit big on me...”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Oh no, it looks fine! In fact, it makes you look very distinguished and professional.”

Dr. Mycol: “Yes, well, I am a very... distinguished medical professional...” *suave grin*

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “You sure are...” *steps closer*

Dr. Mycol: “Yep... very distinguished... very professional...”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “I’ll say...” *steps even closer*

*smooching sounds*

[rootedincuteness]

Mycol’s human hasn’t been to a Renaissance fair since 2019 due to the pandemic and health issues which prevent her from being in large crowds without a mask. We’re all hoping that maybe this Summer is finally the time we get back to doing what we love. In hopeful prep for that, I bought myself a forest witch hat, since I need to stay out of direct sun when outside or I’ll get easily burned. Of course it had to have all sorts of happy mushies all over it! Mycol is absolutely in love with it. He’s already said he’ll help me acquire more mushrooms to add to it, and even though I need to buy the... shall we say... non-biodegradable, felted kind to place on this hat, I encouraged him anyway. I even told him that maybe he could join me at a fair this year if I do end up going. He’s excited to mingle with other mushroom-loving humans! =)

{ Dr. Mycol the fancy swampshroom was made by @itsthebeastpeddler, and the witch hat was made by CostureroReal on Etsy!” }

[rootedincuteness]

A Little Boost Goes A Long Way!

Dr. Mycol: “Hi, folks! As we say goodbye to the holiday season, I just want to remind you all to get your Covid-19 booster shots.”

Dr. Mycol: “Just take it from my friend here!”

Vaccine Bottle: “That’s right! Vaccines are safe and effective, so make sure you’re protecting yourself and your family today!”

Dr. Mycol: “You’re not really the vaccine, though, right? What did you say your name was? Jim?”

Vaccine Bottle: “Jim, yeah, how’s it goin’? Nah, I’m just a spokesbottle.”

Dr. Mycol: “Ah, okay. How is that, anyway? It is a pretty good gig? Does it pay well?”

Vaccine Bottle: “Oh yeah, it’s great. Good benefits, time off with the wife and kids, it’s pretty sweet.”

Dr. Mycol: “And there you have it, folks. Stay safe in the new year!”

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A Little Advice From Some Little Friends...

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “The best way to beat Covid-19 is to get vaccinated! And boosted too. It’s important!”

Dr. Mycol: “That’s right, and if you do get sick, make sure you have test kits handy at home so you don’t have to go out. They’ll help you know when you’re not contagious anymore!”

Mudpie: “And if all else fails, get sloshed!”

Dr. Mycol: “What?! N-no, that’s horrible advice!”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Yeah, you definitely don’t want to do that!”

Mudpie: “Why not?”

Mudpie: *drinks* “Mudpie feels better already!”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Ughhhh...”

Dr. Mycol: “Oh, for the love of...”

Mudpie: *burps and giggles*

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Looking A-head

Hannelore: “Ahhh... a relaxing afternoon. Maybe I should take a nap.”

Dr. Mycol: “Eh-hem. Pardon the intrusion, Hannelore...”

Hannelore: “Oh, hello! What’s up?”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “We’re concerned about you, dear.”

Hannelore: “Oh? How come?”

Dr. Mycol: “Well, it’s...it’s just that... you seem to have a bit of an issue with some uh... some exposed bone, there...”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Yes, you really ought to have that looked at. Could be a problem.”

Dr. Mycol: “Exactly. You must have terrible sinus issues, and... my goodness, however do you swallow anything?”

Hannelore: *chuckles* “No, no... I’m perfectly fine. Urchins are supposed to have exposed skulls. That’s just how we are. I’m completely healthy and feeling great!”

Dr. Mycol: “Really...?! What a medical marvel your species is!”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “That’s incredible! Oh, I’m so glad you’re alright. We were worried.”

Hannelore: “Thank you for your concern, but I’m doing fine. Except... Well, I am a little hungry.”

Dr. Mycol: “That’s no trouble at all, dear, we’ve got some wonderful fruit in the kitchen.”

Nurse Strawberry Gem: “Follow us and we’ll hook you right up with some tasty and healthy snacks!”

Hannelore: “Thank you so much!”

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I bought a really cool mushroom tapestry and wanted to spread it out to see it in all it’s glory. Within seconds, I had ‘shroomfolk opportunists looking to take a gander for themselves! Mog, Bricken, and Dr. Mycol really loved the tapestry. Bricken said it it was nice to see so many handsome mushrooms. Mog thought it was soft and wanted to have a cup of tea while relaxing on it. And Dr. Mycol admired its scientific accuracy. Well it’s good to know that the mushroom residents of my house approve of the new decoration, right? XD