One of the benefits of living where I do is the close proximity to Woodstock, Illinois. The fabled home of the classic film "Groundhog Day," the community has turned a photo opportunity into a full blown and rather entertaining mid-winter festival. Ground Hog Days in Woodstock kick off on February 2 with the appearance of Woodstock Willie, our own version of Punxatawny Phil. Woodstock Willie is fast graining in popularity and someday soon may eclipse his cousin out east. Today's event was spectacular.
Hundreds of local residents crammed the square awaiting the appearance of Willie and his shadow, or lack of it. This year we had the added benefit of hosting Spike O'Dell, morning show host on WGN. Spike and the gang really added some spice to this year's festivities. Promplty at 7:20 am Woodstock Willie was roused from his quarters and emerged to a cloudy morning sky and the prediction of an early spring. Everyone cheered his appearance and his prognostication. Life is good. Winter is waning and spring can't be far behind.
My grand plan was to get up early and join the hundreds of early morning revelers but alas, I could not get my ass out of bed early enough to make it on time, so like thousands throughout Chicagoland, I joined the event via Spike and the WGN crew. When I finally did make it to the square, just about 9, everyone was gone and it looked just like a normal morning. In case anyone is interested there is an entire week end of festivities ahead including the legendary Groundhog Days Chili Cook-off. I entered it last year and lost. Schedule conflicts on Saturday keep me from entering the contest this year but look out for 2007. I'll be back with a killer recipe. And the community may be asking that morning...."where is Woodstock Willie anyway?"
