Falling on February 2^nd, the second holiday is Imbolc (now celebrated as Groundhog’s Day.) The name Imbolc comes from an archaic term for "in milk" as this was the time in late winter when the ewes of old would begin to lactate in preparation for the coming lambs. In nature, the days grow noticeably longer and we sense the coming of spring in our bodies with the inevitable "cabin fever" of late winter. In myth, the child Sun God grows stronger with the waxing light. In our hearts, excitement builds for the coming season of hope and renewal. This time is also associated with the ancient Celtic fire Goddess, Brigid. A fertility Goddess associated with the forge, Brigid kept the hearth fires burning through the last few cold days of winter. Imbolc is also a time of purification and of traditional Wiccan initiation rites.