The Magic of Ordinary Days on Netflix Netflix is a platform that offers a wide range of movies and TV shows for its subscribers. Among the many titles available, "The Magic of Ordinary Days" stands out as a heartwarming and enchanting film that captures the beauty of ordinary days. Released in 2005, the film is based on a novel by Ann Howard Creel and directed by Brent Shields. Set in the 1940s during World War II, it tells the story of Livy, a young woman who finds herself in an arranged marriage with a stranger named Ray. As Livy struggles to adapt to her new life on a farm in rural Colorado, she discovers that there is unexpected magic in the ordinary. Through its carefully crafted storyline and beautiful cinematography, the film explores themes of love, identity, and the power of human connections.
Golden blobs of cat spew on cabbages sound more likely to be the slime mould Fuligo septica, (aka Dog’s Vomit Slime or Flowers of Tan), than any of the dark-coloured Exidia jelly fungi species found growing on dead wood.
Aside from the colour, and the fact that under the microscope their spores are small and round not big and bendy , the crucial difference is that while you will find them both growing on dead deciduous wood such as fallen tree trunks or branches, they are actually parasitizing another fungus that is already decaying the wood. In the case of Tremella mesenterica , the Yellow Brain is actually growing on the mycelium of the corticioid crust fungus in the Peniophora genus, which are decomposers that manifest themselves as smooth, tough waxy patches of grey tinged with beige, red or violet, depending on the species.
Through its carefully crafted storyline and beautiful cinematography, the film explores themes of love, identity, and the power of human connections. Livy's journey from a woman trapped in a society's expectations to someone who finds fulfillment and love in unexpected places is portrayed with grace and authenticity. The film's portrayal of ordinary days is what truly sets it apart.
Gordon Natural Area
Fungi play an enormous role in ecosystem health and function. The portion of fungal biomass that is located below-ground far exceeds that of the macrofungi (i.e., those fungi that form fruiting bodies that are observable without the use of a microscope, aka the 'visible' fungi'). Still, macrofungi can be very evident, and are often visually striking (e.g., Turkey Tail, Golden Fairy Helmets, Jack-O'Lantern Mushrooms, etc.), and are what most people think of when hearing the term fungi.
The initial mycological research at the GNA was in 2008, when Dr. Greg Turner (Department of Biology) and Lauryn Levy (one of Dr. Turner's students) conducted a fall survey of the GNA macrofungi. For the next nine years, or so, there was little focus on fungi.
Then, beginning in the summer of 2017 and continuing through the early winter of that year, GNA Student Intern Alexandra Hodowanec undertook another survey of the macrofungi at the GNA. At around the same time, Nur Ritter (the GNA Stewardship Manager) also began surveying the GNA macrofungi. This work is ongoing, with current GNA Interns Paige Vermeulen, Maribeth Beatty, and Jared Kline currently working with Dr. Ritter. And, beginning in June of 2018 local mycologist Tug DeLuce has begun helping with the project. Tug is by far the most knowledgable of the group and represents a significant upgrade in mycological knowledge for the project.
Please note that this webpage is continually being updated and anyone with an interest in this topic should check back in occasionally.
Checklist of Macrofungi Observed at the Gordon Natural Area
At this time, 197 species of 'fungi' (i.e., macrofungi and slime molds) in 140 genera and 80 families have been documented at the GNA (with samples and photos of many additonal species awaiting identification). The best-represented families are the Polyporaceae (24 species), followed by the Meruliaceae (8 species), Phanerochaetaceae (7 species), and the Hymenochaetaceae and Stereaceae (6 species each). The best-represented genera are Polyporus and Trametes (6 species each) and Stereum (5 species). Generally speaking, most families and genera were 'poorly-represented': with three-quarters (76.4%) of the 140 genera and half (50.0%) of the 80 families being represented by a single species.
Although we haven't collected any abundance data, it appears to us that the most commonly encountered and abundant species are Trichaptum biforme (Violet-toothed Polypore), Trametes versicolor (Turkey Tail), Stereum ostrea (False Turkey Tail), and Stereum complicatum (Crowded Parchment). Species which are also common at the GNA but which are less abundant than the previously mentioned species are (arranged alphabetically): Auricularia auricula-judae (Jelly Ear), Coprinopsis variegata (Scaly Inky Cap), Lycoperdon pyriforme (Stump Puffball), Mycena leaiana (Golden Fairy Helmet), Pluteus cervinus (Deer Mushroom), Polyporus alveolaris (Hexagonal-pored Polypore), Polyporus varius (Elegant Polypore), Sarcoscypha occidentalis (Stalked Scarlet Cup), and Schizophyllum commune (Split Gill Fungus).
Undoubtedly, the actual number of species of fungi at the Gordon is significantly higher than the 197 species that have been cataloged, but we really don't have a good approximation of how rich in fungi the GNA truly is. What can be said is that every time one of us goes out looking for fungi, they encounter a number of 'new' species (i.e., ones that hadn't previously been noted in the GNA).
Below, is a list of the species that have been observed at the GNA. This species list was compiled from GNA Staff fieldwork in 2017 and ongoing work in 2018, augmented by data in Levy et al. (2008; see References), and from Gerry Hertel's photos from 2010-2014. The species are organized in three 'groupings': Slime Molds (11 species); Ascomycetes (37 species); and, Basidiomycetes (149 species). Although slime molds aren't properly 'fungi', they are closely related and are often included in mycological studies, and we have chosen to include them here.
PLEASE NOTE: Much of this information has been compiled by amatuers (i.e., lovers of fungi who, in some cases, have little or no training in mycology). Hence, you should not consider these images to be a reliable source for identification. Many fungi are poisonous and you should not collect or eat any mushrooms without being absolutely certain of their identity!
Key to Symbols
Image(s) present for that species. All photos are from the GNA, unless otherwise noted. Click on a photo to view a larger version
GNA Student Intern Alexandra standing on a Box Elder (Acer negundo) limb to photograph an attached Dryad's Saddle (Polyporus squamosus).
Collaborating mycologist Tug DeLuce checking out a member of the Agrocybe praecox Cluster.
Steve Pencall, a retired research technician who organized the Saturday morning foray, said that even after 35 years of mushroom-hunting, he keeps his expectations low.
It reminds viewers that beauty can be found in the simplest of moments, whether it's a quiet conversation over a cup of tea or a gentle stroll through a sunlit field. The magic lies in appreciating the small joys that life has to offer. The cast of "The Magic of Ordinary Days" delivers outstanding performances that breathe life into the characters. Keri Russell shines as Livy, capturing her vulnerability and strength with conviction. Skeet Ulrich portrays Ray, the reserved and solitary farmer, with a quiet intensity that makes his character endearing. The film's success also lies in its attention to detail. The costumes and set designs transport viewers back to the 1940s, immersing them in the era's atmosphere. The lush landscapes of Colorado serve as a visual backdrop, enhancing the film's beauty and adding to its overall charm. "The Magic of Ordinary Days" is a delightful film that reminds us to find joy in the ordinary moments of life. It is a story that touches the heart and prompts reflection on the importance of embracing the present and appreciating the simple pleasures that surround us. Whether you are a fan of romance, historical dramas, or simply enjoy heartfelt storytelling, "The Magic of Ordinary Days" on Netflix is a film that is sure to captivate and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the magic found in everyday life. So sit back, relax, and let the enchantment of this film transport you to a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary..
Reviews for "Unveiling the Magic: Netflix's Ordinary Day Films and the Captivating Stories Within"
1. Jessica - 1/5 - I was really disappointed with "The Magic of Ordinary Days" on Netflix. The storyline was slow and predictable, and I found it difficult to connect with the characters. The performances felt forced and lacked depth, making it hard to believe in the emotions they were trying to convey. Overall, the movie failed to capture my attention or leave any lasting impression. I would not recommend it to others looking for a captivating and engaging film.
2. Michael - 2/5 - While "The Magic of Ordinary Days" had an intriguing premise, it fell short of my expectations. The pacing was slow, and the plot didn't have enough substance to keep me engaged throughout the film. The chemistry between the characters felt forced, and I couldn't fully invest in their relationship. Additionally, the dialogue was lacking and felt cliché at times. Overall, I found the movie to be average and forgettable, failing to deliver on its potential.
3. Sarah - 1/5 - "The Magic of Ordinary Days" was a huge letdown for me. I found the plot to be dull and unoriginal, with no significant twists or surprises. The acting was mediocre at best, and the characters lacked depth and development. The entire movie felt like a wasted opportunity with a lackluster execution. I was hoping for a captivating and emotionally resonant story, but unfortunately, all I got was a boring and forgettable experience. I would not recommend this film to anyone.
4. David - 2/5 - I had high hopes for "The Magic of Ordinary Days" when I started watching it on Netflix, but I ended up feeling underwhelmed by the overall experience. The plot felt too predictable, and the pacing was too slow for my liking. The cinematography and production design were decent, but they couldn't save the film from its lackluster storyline. The characters lacked depth and failed to evoke any emotional connection. Overall, it was a disappointing watch that didn't live up to its potential.