I know my flowers are in there somewhere

Amazing that stuff will survive that, isn't it!

MMmmm !

In what month do you usually see soil again Gillian

I'm hoping by March sometime if we're lucky.

Next Monday is Groundhog Day, when the groundhog comes out of his burrow to predict if there will be six more weeks of winter or if spring will come early. The closest famous groundhog to us is Wiarton Willie.

Funny G,
Our local one is named General Lee. At least we both have backup if Punxsutawny Phil gets it wrong!

I wonder if they all email each other the night before to decide on the forecast?? LOL

They probably have Blackberries now!
I wonder if the English gardeners are familiar with the whole groundhog thing?

I've heard of groundhog day and I know there was a film (but I've never seen it!). Please tell.

There is a large amount of ceremony that generally goes with the 'special' groundhogs, often involving someone like a town cryer who will read the legend of the groundhog, give the results etc.
The idea is that when the groundhog comes out of his burrow, if he sees his shadow (sunny day) and goes back into his burrow, there will be six more weeks of winter. There is much hoo ha and dressing up associated with the whole business!

Should also mention Shubenacadie Sam, the groundhog from Nova Scotia.
It seems most saw their shadows so the general concesus is that spring will be another 6 weeks (at least!).

Except of course here in the south, no shadow, early spring. Yippee!
Just like every other year! : )

Lucky you!