Ferns, Mushrooms, Fungi and Mosses: ID anyone?, 1 by zone10

zone10 wrote:
Hello~

Although I'm an oldie on DG, I'm a newbie when it comes to fungus. The other day I noticed this growing among my perennials. It felt slightly sticky and stunk to high heaven, especially the brown tip. I pulled it out and it shriveled up within hours. Their was no root, just a covering of hair-like strands or "roots" attached to the underside.

Anyone have an idea of what this is? I'm willing to do the homework if someone can point me in the right direction. Sorry for the blurry picture, I don't have closeup ability on my camera. Thank you!!