I’m not overly fond of groundhogs. Every time I see the fat behind of one waddling out of my garden, I am consumed with unprintable thoughts! I find it unbelievable that they have their own day and that such a fuss is made about waking one up before it’s hibernation is over. Isn’t that animal cruelty? Do they at least offer it a cup of coffee? Who dreamed up that tradition? Why isn’t it called woodchuck day?

I decided to google it but before I found my answer, I learned that woodchucks are rodents. This would explain why I lack warm fuzzy feelings toward them. They are also considered to be large ground squirrels of the marmot variety. I once saw a marmot couple sunbathing on a boulder while hiking in Canada. I thought they were so cute! But then, they weren’t chewing on my veggies. And I even like ground squirrels, as long as they aren’t chewing on my toes!

I have much more fun seeing my own shadow. I’m going to share a few of my favorites.