February 2 marks Groundhog Day in the United States and parts of Canada. Origins of the day date back to 1841 in southern Pennsylvania, in the town of Punxsutawney to be exact. According to folklore, if it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its burrow on this day, then spring will come early; if it is sunny, the groundhog will supposedly see its shadow and retreat back into its burrow, and the winter weather will continue for six more weeks.
Given today’s half gloomy/half sunny weather, we’re dangling somewhere in the middle of that prediction. 😉
One of these days, I’d love to be in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania on February 2 and actually see the cultural celebrations in their full-blown traditional spirit. But for now, I’ll keep with my annual tradition of watching the movie, Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. LOVE that movie. It’s such a refreshingly witty, sarcastic take on redemption.
Happy Groundhog Day. Happy Groundhog Day. Happy Groundhog Day…
Groundhog Day celebrations in Punxsutawney (Photo credit: guardian.co.uk)
For some extra reading on Groundhog Day:
12 Things You Probably Didn’t Know about Groundhog Day, the Movie
Groundhog Day 2013: Punxsutawney Phil Does Not See His Shadow
