This quirky little tradition, involves the weather and a rodent, and was forever immortalized in the movie, Groundhog Day, staring Bill Murray. (It's running all day today on the AMC channel, by the way...)
What you may not know is that the movie was actually filmed in nearby Woodstock, Illinois! I had no idea about this!!! The town is devoted to celebrating all things Groundhog.
"Woodstock Willie" is available for photos, there's Groundhog Bowling at Wayne's Lanes, a trivia contest and even a walking tour! You can stay at the Royal Victorian Manor Bed & Breakfast which was featured as the “Cherry Street Inn” in the movie; and there's even a Groundhog Hotline (815- 334-2620) if you need updates. I don't know about you, but next year I'm heading there for the big day...
Here's something else I didn't know: Brian Doyle-Murray, who plays the gravelly-voiced Groundhog Day official, is Bill Murray’s older brother!
So, whatever the outcome; shadow or not, Groundhog Day is quite the fun little February diversion to observe when the wind is howling and the snow is a-flying. Thank you Mr. Groundhog...
Please note:
As a service to readers of the Clever Girl Chronicle, we offer two important links below.
Should you be interested in acquiring your own weather forecasting mammal (AKA, a Groundhog) my internet searching reveals that they seem to sell for between $400-$700. Decidedly not the cheapest weather forecasting method available.
Click HERE for an example.
Before you and your family take on one of these fuzzy companions, I strongly suggest that you read this short, yet helpful article on Groundhogs as pets. I found it most insightful. Especially Section 5, entitled Special Dietary Needs. Click HERE.
