Happy Groundhog Day

Today is Groundhog Day.  Groundhog Day day originated in Germany and subsequent settlers brought it over with them to Punxsutawney, PA.  Originally, the animal used  was a hedgehog.  Groundhogs are also known as woodchucks.  The one used for today's ceremony is named Phil.

The rule is if he sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter.  If not, an early spring.  How they can tell whether or not he saw his shadow is a mystery to me but according to the folks in Punxsutawney, PA who conducted the ceremony this morning, he did in fact see his shadow-as if anyone had any doubt.

Obviously there is no science whatever involved in this silly tradition but I guess we should welcome any opportunity for a few people to have a little fun-especially during these trying times.

Anyway, happy Groundhog Day.