Happy Groundhog Day!

Punxsutawny Phil saw his shadow…six more weeks of winter! Add an extra layer of blankets and pull on your coziest socks. Most people are likely not happy with this prediction. The east coast of the United States is getting slammed with another winter storm.

But I look at all that beautiful snow and think…no pollen! No allergies! (I say this in full acknowledgment that I don’t have to shovel snow or drive on ice.) This time of extended dormancy has a role in the natural world where all living beings are equipped to handle the weather.

Sadly, New Jersey native Milltown Mel passed away just before Groundhog Day. May he have a smooth journey across the Rainbow Bridge and a warm burrow waiting on the other side.