I’ve become quite fond of Woodstock, Illinois. I grew up in nearby McHenry and have always lived a hop, skip and a jump away. Our high school used to play sports against Woodstock, so they were always the rival in my eyes. But as life goes on, perspectives change and I’ve adapted a new one on Woodstock.
I met my wife Rachel while she was living in Woodstock, which perhaps is the biggest reason I now have an affinity for it. Throughout our courtship, I spent many days in and around the town, getting dinner, shopping, or walking through the old neighborhoods.
But perhaps the most charming aspect of Woodstock is the town’s Square, which is famous for its role in the 1993 Bill Murray film, Groundhog Day. Woodstock was known as the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, in the movie.
Almost every time I set foot in the historic Woodstock Square, I can’t help but get the hankering to watch Groundhog Day. Everywhere you look around the Square, you can’t help but remember a particular scene from the movie. I’ve even walked past the bed and breakfast house that Murray’s character stayed at.
This Saturday, I was at the Woodstock farmers market, here in the Square, enjoying my wife and her friend playing music to entertain the crowd. It was a warm summer day with a slight breeze and I was surrounded by good company.
Needless to say, it was just one more reason to like the town and spend my time in it.
