The Woodchuck as Warrior

Life is full of wonders, questions, tragedies, and miracles. Every life is different, and every story is different too, but we can always find a way to relate to the good ones. We hope that the stories today spark memories and stories of your own that go on to be shared with loved ones. We have tales about things ranging from groundhogs to art in ancient catacombs from tellers Doug Elliott, Norman Walker, Ed Stivender, and more. On today’s episode, enjoy the following: “The Woodchuck as Warrior: of Whistlepigs and World Politics” by Doug Elliott from Groundhogology and Marmotabilia: Of Whistlepigs and World Politics (10:03) This story comes from a man who knows all about nature and an album that is all about groundhogs. It is entitled Groundhogology and Marmotabilia: Of Whistlepigs and World Politics. Doug Elliott is not only a storyteller, but also a naturalist and herbalist. He has traveled all over the Americas to investigate plant and animal life and learn about people’s connection to the natural world. As he explains in this story, people actually have quite a big connection to animals. We can learn a lot about ourselves from watching those groundhogs. “Ballad of Ross and Anna” by Norman Walker from Dear Friends and Gentle Hearts (5:39) Norman Walker is not just a storyteller. He is a self proclaimed story singer. He has also been called a contemporary folk singer. This song, entitled “Ballad of Ross and Anna” is about a couple who falls in love and builds a cabin on a mountainside. Unfortunately, the granite slab they built it on was not as good of an idea as they originally thought. In the winter it seemed fine, but it was actually a home to rattlesnakes. “Sody Salaraitis” by Ed Stivender from Silly Jack: Stories and Songs for Children (5:54) Ed Stivender became a full time storyteller in 1977 after leaving his job as a high school teacher. Ever since he has been involved in storytelling across the country. This story comes from an appalachian tale reminiscent of a reverse little red ridin