If anyone feels like punching a groundhog, it would be me. Not really, but, let’s just say punch is involved in this one.
Living in Texas for one reason is the climate and as we endure these cold snaps that continue into March, some mornings and evenings aren’t setting well for me these days.
I’ve always felt that the famous groundhog Punsxutawney Phil, “sorta, kinda” knew what he is talking about – until now.
But maybe I’m just jumping the gun.
On Feb. 2, this furry little critter did not see a shadow, thus giving his bold prognostication that spring will arrive early.
Now laugh if you may, but Mr. Phil has been the “go-to” guy to determine if winter will last until May or we begin to see the spring flowers early. According to a website dedicated to Groundhog Day, a groundhog has been doing this since 1887 in Pennsylvania.
And according to the site, Punsxutawney has been the only groundhog thus far. And his longevity on life has been due to a secret recipe called “groundhog punch”.
After waking up the last two weeks freezing, I’m thinking, yes, he is drinking some “secret groundhog punch.” In our human world, we call that a margarita.
After sifting through the website, I found the official proclamation for Feb. 2:

“On this February 2nd, 2013, the One Hundred and Twenty Seventh Annual Trek of the  Punxsutawney Groundhog Club at Gobbler’s Knob….
Punxsutawney Phil, the King of the Groundhogs, Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of Prognosticators, Weather Prophet without Peer, was awakened from his borrow at 7:28 am with a tap of the President’s cane.
Phil and President Deeley conversed in Groundhogese and Phil directed him to the chosen Prognostication scroll. The President tapped the chosen scroll and directed Phil’s Prediction be proclaimed:
My new Knob entrance is a sight to behold Like my faithful followers, strong and bold
And so ye faithful, there is no shadow to see An early Spring for you and me.”

After reading that and letting out a few chuckles, I couldn’t help but think how this creature has become King of Gobbler’s Knob.

But as it may be, I’m hoping that maybe spring will come early. Even if it means a day early, I guess that prediction by an animal would be suffice.

If so, bring on the secret “groundhog punch” and hope Mr. Phil comes through once again – that is, by not seeing his shadow.