Candlemas Day - an almost forgotten celebration, though it is an important date in the church calendar, marking the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. But ever since Phil Connors met Punxsutawney Phil, people around the world associate February 2nd with Groundhog Day. Did you know that, though we don't wait for a groundhog to appear, Ireland has similar weather lore? How about this old rhyme?
If Candlemas Day is clear and bright,
winter will have another bite.
If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain,
winter is gone and will not come again.
So, what's the score? Well, it started off very rainy here in Cavan, but at the time of writing the sun is out and blue skies are in view. Which makes me wonder if the Irish weather isn't up to its old tricks again ... proving that the only predictable certainty is change.
By the way ... for a live link with Punxsutawney surf to Gobbler's Knob. Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don't forget your booties 'cause it's cooooold out there today.