SG, sorry to hear you didn't feel good for a spell. Loved your post. Interesting point about the "deformed" shape. I have often wondered about that. And I have never, as far as I recall, ever followed the season north of Omaha. Hoping for one more flush here in my late spots, one of which is going now (lovely 1- and 2-inch whites) on a north slope. I have killed it at this vein for 20 years and I will rue the day it ends. Good to see you posting!
The darker wood beyond lies waiting. Love this time of year!