A Groundhog's Tale

by Whitey

Every February the Second a very important event takes place when I, Wiarton Willie, take my place within the newsworthy events of that day. You see, I have the honour and extreme responsibility of informing the humans in my part of the world whether or not this winter will continue for six more weeks or shortly give way to an early Spring. This day takes much preparation on my part and I would like to tell you all about it. First of all, perhaps you don’t know that we Groundhogs are hibernating creatures. We love our sleep and hate the cold. During the winter months I live in a cozy hole with my personal Sleeping Bag, provided by the human slaves who are my protectors and servants. It is my favourite shade of blue(it goes well with my white coat) and there is a pretty embroidered pillow on which to lay my head. My humans ply me with tasty meals until I am good and plump and then, at the proper time, I say good-night and close the door to my sleeping room. All is quiet and serene until that moment in February when I am rudely awakened and taken from my shelter. Yes, it is pay-up time! Even groundhogs have commitments. I step sleepily and reluctantly from my hole and open my eyes in wonder. Crowds of humans surround my home! Flashbulbs light up the morning sky as reporters from all the big newspapers wait to welcome me. A gentleman in a tuxedo and a big black hat stands by my burrow and a great cheer goes up as my sleepy head pokes through the door. I yawn – all is still. Then – my eyes slowly open. There is a great gasp from the crowd – does Willie see his shadow? Will winter soon be over? I look around and up in the sky, but where is the sun? My servants awoke me much too early! I can’t see my shadow and I slowly turn around and I go back to bed. A huge sigh arises from the people. There are six more weeks of winter to endure. And that is my story. They say I am usually right in my prognosis but today it is time to resume my sleep. Happy dreams! See you in the Spring!