Happy Marmot Day!

You might know it as Groundhog Day, but do you know the difference between a Groundhog and a Marmot? Groundhogs live east of the Mississippi usually in low lying areas. Marmots live in mountains west of the Mississippi. This fine fellow is actually a Yellow-Bellied Marmot I met at the top of Mount Evans. All Groundhogs are Marmots, but all Marmots are not Groundhogs. There are more than 15 types of Marmots. You may also hear them referred to as whistle pigs and woodchucks. I used to have Woodchucks living in the front yard when I lived in New York. My dog loved to chase them. Let's celebrate the prediction of an early spring because Puxatawny Phil did not see his shadow today. We can also discuss why we allow rodents to predict the weather. You might also enjoy the technique to paint these granite rocks. This video class is live now at www.showcaseartcenter.com. Paint this Marmot in person with me at Showcase Tuesday and Wednesday 2:00-4:00 PM. Paint something of your own choosing 10:00 to noon. Class details are on the web site. Now you know why I wish you "Happy Marmot Day!".