Is Punxsutawney Phil in for a Rude Awakening on Groundhog Day?

It looks like Punxsutawney Phil is in for a rude awakening. His Inner Circle has been accused of keeping him supplied with a questionable elixir and organizing nubile female woodchuck company. How will he deal with the growing scandals?


“It is a curse of celebrity status--Punxsutawney Phil will probably attempt to dig his way out of this whole mess.” according to Diana L Guerrero.

Diana L. Guerrero is the author of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

The book, scheduled for release in April, talks about Candlemas and the tradition of Groundhog Day.

Guerrero writes, “Groundhog Day occurs halfway between the winter solstice and spring equinox. In the United States, wild and wacky groundhog “weathermen” stick their necks out to make weather predictions early in the year. Real animals, these groundhogs “forecast” the end of winter or beginning of spring in an old tradition linked to Candlemas.”

In Punxsutawney, Groundhog Day is a big deal and has been celebrated on Gobbler’s Knoll since 1887. The event is broadcast throughout the United States and has even appeared on the JumboTron in New York.

Punxsutawney Phil is known as “The Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Prognosticator of Prognosticators and Weather Prophet Extraordinary” and his notoriety has drawn crowds of over 30,000 to the little town with 6,000 residents.

So how does he predict the weather? The tale is that the groundhog comes out of his hole after a long winter sleep to look for his shadow. If he sees it, he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his hole. If the day is cloudy and shadowless he takes it as a sign of spring and stays above ground.

The groundhog tradition stems from beliefs associated with Candlemas Day and the days of early Christians in Europe, and for centuries the custom was to have the clergy bless candles and distribute them to the people.

Today’s groundhog has to be adaptable so Phil has branched out into other activities besides weather prediction. He meets with president, talk show hosts, and also makes political statements.

For instance, during prohibition, Phil threatened to impose 60 weeks of winter if could not get a drink.

Punxsutawney itself is filled with tributes to their famous resident. Sculptures, artistic murals, and other tributes to the groundhog (slang for woodchuck) adorn the town.

Events leading up to the big day on February 2nd include groundhog festivals, a groundhog jog, a groundhog lasagna luncheon, the crowning of king and queen groundhog and Mr & Miss groundhog, a woodchuck whittle carving exhibition, a Phil Phind scavenger hunt, the Phil Phest, and more--you can even buy Groundhog Brew.

You can apply for a Groundhog day club membership at http://www.groundhog.org and if you want a sneak preview of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS, due out this April, visithttp://www.blessingoftheanimals.com today.

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Review copies of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677) are available to journalists. Contact Sterling Publishing Publicity at (212) 532-7160.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS is available for preorder from Sterling Publishing, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com and will be available at booksellers throughout the United States in April of 2007.

Diana L Guerrero is available for interviews and online previews of this book are available online at http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com please also visit:
http://www.whatanimalscanteachusaboutspirituality.com or http://www.dianalguerrero.com


Other Groundhog Day Links:
Tom Purcell Groundhog Day & the ACLU

Out of Chuck's Shadow
Groundhog Day


Groundhog Day Celebrations

Woody Competes with Phil

Groundhog Day Fest

Only His Shadow Knows

Punxsutawney: Dig it!

Groundhog Day: A Critics Guide to Punxsutawney

Punxsutawney Who?

Pet Loss: One Story

In this article you'll find the story about pet loss. People share stories about their animals all the time and big questions remain as to what protocols are proper so I made sure BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS shares stories about how to deal with pet loss, pet funeral trends, and even includes some ceremonies.

Pet loss and bereavement is a tough road for everyone and even those who don't really care for animals are affected by loss when their friends and family are impacted. You can find my story of pet loss in WHAT ANIMALS CAN TEACH US ABOUT SPIRITUALITY: INSPIRING LESSONS OF WILD AND TAME CREATURES.

Doggie Nuptials & Puppy Showers

I just came across this doggie nuptial article in the Porterville Reporter. There seems to be a little bit of confusion--puppy showers are not attended by puppies but by humans --and the protocol is that they should be held BEFORE the new pet arrives. (Can you imagine trying to have a party with a bunch of little puppies running amuck? Yikes!)

Pet showers help the new pet owners to get ready for the new arrival and are a great place to catch up with family and friends...they should read BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS & OTHER ANIMALS...in it they would also learn that before mutt-rimony many pet owners suggest pre-nip-tual agreements--to take the bite out of things so to speak!

Prefer Puppy Love or Pussycat Passion? Author’s Animal Lover's Quiz Reveals the Beastly Truth

Folklore credits the first valentine to an imprisoned Saint Valentine in third century Rome. He sent the first "valentine" to his beloved by signing it "From your Valentine." Today the tradition continues but it is really going to the dogs…and cats.

According to Diana L Guerrero a recent survey revealed that most pet owners would pick a pet over a person. This news might be startling to some but is indicative of changes in American households. For instance, pet spending has more than doubled from $17 billion in 1994 to an estimated $38.4 billion in 2006. According to Guerrero more pet households now exist than those with children.

“This means that if you want to get into the heart of your sweetie this Valentine’s Day don’t forget to include something for the pet. There is a wide assortment of gifts to select from--everything from a crunch cards (pet card with a treat) or reflective pet ID tag to high end crystal embedded collars, and if you want to share a quiet human only romantic interlude…consider sending the pet out for a s-paw day.”

Diana L. Guerrero talks about timeless traditions and contemporary ceremonies for pets in her soon to be released book, BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

The unusual book is filled with ideas and tips for pet parties, pet weddings, and other furry festivities. Readers will find ceremonies and tips for mutt-rimony, holidays such as Valentine’s Day, and other trendy activities.

To find out if you prefer puppy love or pussycat passion take Guerrero’s quiz by selecting one preference from each line:

__Outdoor stroll to __curling up by a fire
__A good massage or__basking in the sun
__Drool when happy or __purr with bliss
__Engage in group play sessions or __enjoy one-on-one activities
__Enjoy a spa day or __would rather attend to your own personal hygiene
__Take guidance easily or __prefer to be in charge
__Prefer day time activities or __stay up all night
__Relish attention or __prefer to initiate interaction
__Like to share bed with a loved one or __ prefer your own bed

For the key to Guerrero’s quiz visit http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com

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Review copies of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677) are available to journalists. Contact Sterling Publishing Publicity at (212) 532-7160.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS is available for preorder from Sterling Publishing, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com and will be available at booksellers throughout the United States in April of 2007. Online previews of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS are available online at http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com.

Diana L Guerrero is available for interviews visit http://www.dianalguerrero.com for additional information.

Reuters Story After Death Pet Care

I thought you might like to see this article about the pet funeral business. BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS talks about the history of pet burials and also the different types of options now available to pet owners--most that are NOT in this article.

Author Says Mardi Gras Krewe Welcomes REAL Paw-ty Animals

Carnival, most popularly known as Mardi Gras season, started on January 6th (the end of the twelfth day of Christmas). Most of the infamous parades, balls and related festivities take place two weeks before Mardi Gras Day (Fat Tuesday) which is February 20th.

According to author Diana L Guerrero—you can see some real animals in New Orleans during this time. When Guerrero says animals, she means the four legged members of the Mystic Krewe of Barkus, a Mardi Paws society whose membership is limited to canines and is headquartered near the “flea market” of New Orleans.

Diana L. Guerrero mentions the group in her soon to be released book, BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

Guerrero said, “In the past the group has picked clever themes such a ‘Jurassic Bark,’ ‘Lifestyles of the Bitch & Famous,’ and the ‘Wizard of Paws.’ This year the theme is ‘A Street Dog Named Desire.’”

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS is a unique look into timeless traditions of animal blessings, contemporary creature celebrations, and touches on pet pageants, pet parades, and other quirky pet friendly activities. The author discovered the Krewe of Barkus during her research for her newest work due out in April.

Although the Mardi Gras tradition arrived in America in 1699 the Mystic Krewe of Barkus surfaced just 15 years ago.

“Each year the krewe donates the proceeds of the parade registration fees, merchandise sales, and ball profits to worthy animal welfare groups. I think it is great that even if you can’t attend, they encourage you to support a dog-gone good cause through the purchase of a membership or the krewe’s memorabilia.”

Guerrero was sorry to hear that there was no yappy hour at this year’s Barkin’ Up the Ritz Ball on February 9th since the Windsor Court Hotel event is for humans only--but anyone can join the Krewe of Barkus--and parade is filled with those canine members.

Pet parents who don’t parade can join the paw-ty at Armstrong Park in New Orleans beginning at 10:30am. The parade will start at 2:00pm.

Krewe of Barkus

• Krewe of Barkus: The Wizard of Paws...There's No Place Like Home


• Krewe of Barkus: Hairy Pawter and the Sorcerer's Bone


• Krewe of Barkus: Joan of Bark


• Krewe of Barkus 2002


• Krewe of Barkus Highlights 2000


• Krewe of Barkus:
  007 From Barkus with Love


• Krewe of Barkus Screenshots!


• Photos Krewe of Barkus


• Photos Krewe of Barkus


• Photos Krewe of Barkus


• Krewe of Barkus in the news


• Mystic Krewe of Barkus in the news


• Krewe of Barkus Webshots

Mardi Paws Krewe

• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2006


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2005


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2004


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2003


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2002


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2001


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 2000


• Mardi Paws Royal Hairs (Canine Court) Photos 1999


• Mardi Paws 2002

Krewe of Barkus & Meoux

• Barkus & Meoux Parade Pictures

Blessing of the Animals in January

Another blessing of the animals link:
Blessing in Chiesa di Sant'Eusebio

Father Juan Millan of Madrid Bless the Animals

During the feast day of San Anton Father Juan Millan blessed pets during the annual blessing of the animals. Here are a few links you can also click on the slide show once there to see all 26 photos:

Daniel Ochoa de Olza the photographer (you can purchase the photos here

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 1This bulldog is waving and sticking his tongue out.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 2This woman smooches her pug after the blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 3Guide dog blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 4The large dog is being carried for a pet blessing by the owner.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 5This pup is waits for the blessing dressed to keep warm.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 6Blessing an airdale.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 7Blessing a cat.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 8

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 9

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 10Bunny Blessing.

Blessing of the Animals Father Juan Millan feast day of San Anton in Spain Pic 11Dressed up for the blessing.

Here are some of the articles related to this blessing of the animals:
Madrid, Spain (FOX News)

Saint's Day Blessing

St. Anthony’s Feast Day: Author Says Fur Flies Over Some Animal Ceremonies

The Festa di Sant' Antonio (Feast of St. Antony) will be celebrated in Italy (251-356 C.E) and who is also known as San Anton, San Antonio de Abad, St. Anthony of the Desert, St. Anthony the Abbot, or St. Anthony of Egypt.

Saint Anthony is the patron saint of the animal kingdom, among other things, and animal blessings and life respecting masses take place on the Sunday closest to his feast day of January 17th, the date of Saint Anthony’s physical death but celebrated as his birthdate in heaven.

Diana L. Guerrero talks about animal blessing traditions and contemporary creature celebrations in her new book BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677).

Guerrero’s research turned up little known information. She said, “Although St Anthony de Abad is not as well known for his animal affinity as St Francis of Assisi, the Los Angeles Olvera Street blessing of the animals here in California was always held in conjunction with the feast day of St Anthony until it was changed due to challenges with the winter weather.”

One story Guerrero found concerned St Anthony on a journey to visit St. Paul. She said, “During his travels he met many animals, some helpful and some not. Eventually, he got lost and a wolf ended up guiding him to St. Paul—they were then feed by a cooperative raven. Finally, when St Paul died, lions helped St Anthony dig the grave.”

During her work on BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Guerrero found a variety of interesting trends. Animal blessings and pet oriented services are on the increase.

She interviewed many spiritual leaders about their animal blessings and discovered that animals catalyze people to cross religious lines to find common ground. But Guerrero also discovered that the fur flies over some celebrations such as pet mitzvahs and pet wedding ceremonies.

If you need to know how to maintain a peaceable kingdom a list of Ten Commandments for Animal Ceremonies is included in BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS.

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Review copies of BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: A GUIDE TO PRAYERS & CEREMONIES CELEBRATING PETS AND OTHER CREATURES (ISBN 1402729677) are available to journalists. Contact Sterling Publishing Publicity at (212) 532-7160.

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS is available for preorder from Sterling Publishing, Amazon.com, and BarnesandNoble.com and will be available at booksellers throughout the United States in April of 2007.

The author is available for interviews and online previews of this book are available online at http://www.blessingoftheanimals.com

Pet Funerals

In Blessing of the Animals I talk about pet loss, pet funerals and the options pet parents have after losing a pet. In one section I mention Hartsdale Cemetery...this article about pet loss options mentions them and Bide-A-Wee--along with some other tidbits I thought you might find useful.