IN HONOR OF VALENTINE’S DAY:
WHAT DO YOU REALLY KNOW ABOUT GROUNDHOG DAY? 3 MYTHS ABOUT OUR FAVORITE FURRY METEOROLOGIST Despite the fact that most, if not all, meteorologists place little value on a furry marmot’s ability to predict an early spring, the annual tradition of Groundhog Day is still one that millions of people love to celebrate. Because it is based more on folkloric legend than scientific evidence, Groundhog Day is associated with shams and spoofs of varying degrees. There are many myths regarding the tradition as well as the famous Punxsutawney Phil himself.
FOCUSING ON LOVE FOR OTHERS AND LOVE FOR YOURSELF
This month, love is in the air. Millions of people all over the world will buy bouquets of red roses, boxes of Sweethearts candies, and heart-covered greeting cards to shower their partners with adoration on Valentine’s Day. But this holiday is about so much more than gifts you can buy in a store. It’s about setting aside time in your busy schedule to celebrate all the loves in your life: your significant other, family members, friends, and even yourself. For many people, this holiday can feel like a cliché. If you keep practicing the more hackneyed traditions, your celebration might not be as memorable as it could be. If you are celebrating with your husband or wife, add a dash of creativity by scheduling a couple’s massage, booking a romantic cabin getaway, or making a keepsake that features some of your favorite memories with them. You can also change up traditions by making your celebration a family affair. You could try a family-friendly day out at the zoo, have a picnic in the park, or head to a museum. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you could plan a family movie night complete with a themed dinner option, printable movie tickets, and a blanket fort in your living room. Lastly, but most importantly, make sure you schedule some time this Valentine’s Day to practice some self-love. Consider taking the energy that you put into your relationships with others and focusing that on your own happiness, betterment, and self-care. Contrary to popular belief, focusing
MYTH 1: THE PREDICTIONS ARE ACCURATE.
Many event-goers put a lot of faith in Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions. Unfortunately, he is more likely to be wrong than right. According to studies based on Phil’s predictions and the weather patterns that follow, it seems Phil’s predictions receive an accuracy rate of only 39 percent.
MYTH 2: GROUNDHOG DAY IS HARMLESS.
Much like humans, most groundhogs don’t like being suddenly jostled out of their sleep. Their frustration often leads to them biting their handlers. For this reason, the handlers usually wear heavy gloves to protect themselves. However, that isn’t always enough of a precaution to ensure everyone’s safety. In 2009, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg was bitten through his glove, and subsequent Mayor Bill de Blasio dropped his groundhog in 2014. While Phil is probably the most well-known ground-dwelling meteorologist, he is not the only groundhog with weather predicting abilities. For example, General Beauregard Lee is the weather predictor for the city of Lilburn, Georgia. Staten Island Chuck takes care of the New York territory, and Lancaster, Pennsylvania, has three groundhogs of its own, which is probably due to its rich Pennsylvania Dutch history. Canada has even started a Groundhog Day tradition with Shubenacadie Sam in Nova Scotia and Balzac Billy in Alberta. MYTH 3: PHIL IS THE ONLY FAMOUS RODENT.
on your own care doesn’t make you selfish; you need to assure your own mental and physical health before you can fully love those around you. Start by making those appointments you’ve been putting off, like seeing your dentist — the one that treats you to paraffin wax hand dips! (Yes, that is a shameless plug). Then take yourself out on a date or take a few days off work to take that vacation you’ve been planning for years. Make the most of this holiday centered on relationships and love by honoring your loved ones and yourself.
Even though Groundhog Day is a holiday based on many myths, it still provides a great time for event-goers all across the world. You might not be able to fully trust Phil’s predictions, but the superstition and mystique associated with this unique and festive day make it one you shouldn’t skip out on.
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