Laura Mustio

We got into our car, incredible-smelling artisan pizza and greens in tow. And as we crested the hill on South Atherton, heading back towards town, we saw it.

Since a majority of the students have left for the summer, we’re all getting ready for The Big Shift. This is the time of year where State College transitions into a playground for locals.

Do you know about the secret society of utter magic and fun that’s a part of foraging for these elusive forest treasures each spring? Before moving to State College, these wild mushrooms weren’t on my radar at all.

I wanted to share a little about what I’ve found has been possible in StateCollege in just this short period of time that I’ve been intentionally seeking out my community.

If the winter blues show up at your door in January with a suitcase in each hand, ready to be all up in your face until April, this one’s for you.

As I enter into my seventh State College winter, I know that the spring, summer, and fall on the other end of this are so worth the wait. But I also know that we can set ourselves up to do so much more than just tolerate an entire season on our way to those warmer months.

Life in State College can be pretty sweet. State College may have fewer options than a city, but 9 times out of 10? You’ll find something great that totally hits the spot, without spending a ton of energy, mentally scrolling through and considering a never-ending list of choices.