the term "foxfire" is a name commonly applied to several species of bioluminescent fungi that grow on rotting wood in damp forests (like the Southern Appalachians) during the warmer months. These fungi typically produce a dim blue-green glow that can be seen only in dark, starlit areas, away from any artificial lights or moonlight. Other names associated with these glowing fungi include "faerie fire" and "will o' the wisp." (an excerpt from foxfire.org)
the other day, we headed up to rabun county to visit foxfire. foxfire was started in 1966, by a local high school english teacher who sought the importance of educating students about appalachia history, self-sufficiency, living on the land and at the seasons' demands. over the years the students have published several books and magazines that talk about such topics. you can find them here.
walking around the foxfire land, it was easy to imagine life in a much simpler time, no phones, running water, computers, electricity, plumbing, or modern conveniences. i oftentimes think how nice it might be to escape to those times...for a little while. when people worked to live and enjoy life.