Newfoundland is the most wonderful place in the world and I grew up in the best part of that province. My three sisters, my two brothers and I were privileged to call Jiggs' Farm, on the Botwood Highway, our home. I visit as often as possible, and sustain myself with my memories the rest of the time. Winters on the farm were long, but never lonely. By February, though, we were all craving a breath of spring. My sister Barb was known to love Groundhog Day. As she put it, there were six weeks left and she could count them down no problem. Here is a poem I've written for her.

It's Groundhog Day!
Well whoop dee dee
Still looks like snow
Out there to me

There's Phil and Willie
And prediction's their game
They emerge once a year
For their moment of fame

Their shadow you see,
Is the topic of the day
To tell if winter
Will go or stay

Now here's my thought
As Candlemass passes
And the snow keeps piling up
Past our a__es

Shadow or not
In six weeks plus
I'm setting my heart on spring or bust

Bonnie Dow
February 2007   Submitted By: NULL