By the time of this writing, the prediction results are not in. This event has occurred since in 1887 in Punxsutawney Pennsylvania.. The celebration combined the Indian folklore tradition with the older Christian celebration of Candlemas Day. The day marks 40 days after Christmas. It was to commemorate the presentation of the baby Jesus at the Temple and Mary’s purification. New candles were brought to be blessed. It also marks the turning point of winter.
The number 40 is a biblical number symbolizing transition. The 40 days that Noah endured the flood in the ark, The Israelites wandering in the desert before entering the promised land or Jesus fasting in prayer in the wilderness. Christians will enter into Lent, a 40 day period of fasting, prayer and giving of time, and treasure.
So as we watch the news to see if Phil sees his shadow and returns to his burrow. Take time to make some homemade tater Tots. They are simple to make and taste better than the frozen ones. The recipe is below.
three finely chopped or grated potatoes
a 1/tbsp. of flour
Salt and pepper to taste.
oil for cooking
1 grate the potatoes in a bowl
2 squeeze the extra moisture from the potatoes with a cloth and set aside
- Add a heaping Tbsp of flour the potatoes.
4.Mix and form into balls and place on an oiled pan. - Cook in the oven for 25 minutes at325 degrees stirring 1 to 2 times.
Remove and serve with condiments.
Enjoy.
***. Poem
Turning the Corner
Days of winter, cold and snow.
North west winds across us blow.
Weary of the dark and white.
Hope for early spring in sight.
carolaspot@aol.com
copyright 2/2/2026
traveling up and down the blind highway 