This week the question was answered, is it Spring yet?Yes, Groundhog Day was this week and the question was answered because no matter if he saw his shadow or not there is still 49 days until spring! March 20, 2010. But how did the lowly groundhog or woodchuck, is the only mammal to have a day named in his honor. Groundhog Day is February 2. Granted it's not a federal holiday; nobody gets off work, but still to have a day named after you is quite an honor.

It stems from the ancient belief that hibernating creatures were able to predict the arrival of spring by coming out of their den. The Pennsylvania Dutch brought the tradition to America in the 18th century. They celebrated Candlemas, which is one of the four "cross-quarters" of the year, occurring half way between the first day of winter and the first day of spring. Traditionally, it was believed that if Groundhog Day was sunny and sees his shadow, he will return to the burrow for six more weeks of winter. If he doesn't see his shadow, he remains outside and starts his year because he knows spring has arrived early.

Traditionally, the groundhog is supposed to awaken on February 2 and come out of his burrow. In the U.S. the official groundhog is kept in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Every February 2, amid a wild celebration early in the morning, Punxsutawney Phil is pulled from his den by his keepers, who are dressed in tuxedos. Phil then whispers his weather prediction into the ear of his keeper, who then announces it to the crowd. Of course, this is for show. It's a fun celebration and a great tradition.Besides, spring always arrives on or near March 20, so whether the groundhog decides to return to his den or remain above ground, the sad fact is spring will always have to wait at least six more weeks.

This week will also end with another celebration and tradition next Sunday when the 44th Super Bowl will be played in Miami, Florida.My two favorite quarterbacks won't be playing, but I suppose I will be cheering on the Colts.Getting ready for Super Bowl XLIV will call for some special foods.I always have a pot of soup in the crock pot and a lot of snacks.One of my favorites snacks are meatballs and with this recipe I never have any left-over.

Barbecue Meatballs

1 lb. ground beef

1 slightly beaten egg

1/3 cup fine, dry bread

crumbs

1/2 teaspoon poultry

seasoning

1/2 cup catsup

2 Tablespoons brown

sugar

2 Tablespoons vinegar

2 Tablespoons soy sauce

Mix ground beef, bread crumbs, egg and poultry seasoning. Shape into about 2 dozen 1 1/2 inch balls.Brown balls slowly in a greased skillet at medium-high heat.Pour off excess fat. In a small bowl, combine catsup, brown sugar, vinegar and soy sauce.Pour over meat balls. Simmer; stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. To serve, insert toothpick into each meatball and place on a serving plate.

Did you know that 6% of Americans call in sick the Monday after the Super Bowl?

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