(I think if you click on the little pics, they become big.)
This gigantic California Lilac (Ceanothus) has survived and thrived against all odds. About seven years ago, I thought it had completely died; there was no hint of the plant at all — it had disappeared. Since dying plants are something I’ve gotten used to here in the southwest, I figured it had gone the way of many others…
However., one day as I randomly inspected the area, I saw something that strangely resembled a minuscule Ceanothus leaf, shiny and green. I kept my eye on it for a while and was amazed that it WAS that same Ceanothus plant — it had resurrected itself.
Look at it today! It’s taken over the entire area next to the driveway. Periodically, I cut it back because it grows so prolifically, I wouldn’t be able to get in the garage. Trimming doesn’t seem to bother it at all, as you can see.
What you can’t hear are the hundreds of bees it attracts and what you can’t smell is the fragrance of a blooming Ceanothus, powerful yet delicate.
Did you know? The flowers of certain Ceanothus species contain saponin, a natural compound that creates a soapy lather when mixed with water.
Historically, Native Americans used Ceanothus flowers as a natural soap for washing hands and clothes.
To use Ceanothus as soap, simply gather the flowers, get your hands wet, and rub the flowers between your hands. The saponin will create a soapy lather. It really works!
Where were you on April 5? Did you participate in the #Handsoff event in your area?
We took the Coaster down to San Diego which was a much better idea than driving and trying to find a place to park. The train was so packed, we had to sit on the floor. Our ride down the coast was filled with positive energy, singing, and chants about DEMOCRACY in action.
This growing movement is a call to protect democracy, civil rights, and social justice. Organizers say the protests aim to send a clear message: “Enough is enough.” These protests are grassroots-led, with no single group in charge. However, coalitions of youth activists, civil rights organizations, and climate groups have joined forces.
Hands off Social Security. Hands off Medicaid. Hands off veteran care. Hands off our kids’ education. Hands off our rights.
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I don’t believe mainstream media is honestly representing accurate numbers but I think we might have had nearly 50,000 participants in San Diego.
I have never before seen so many people or felt as much energy, even more than the Women’s March in 2017.
The “Hands Off!” protests today were nothing short of monumental, marking a powerful and unified stand against what organizers have called the most audacious power grab in modern history. With over 1,400 events spanning all 50 states and hundreds of thousands of participants, this movement brought together a diverse coalition of workers, activists, and everyday citizens to demand an end to billionaire influence, cuts to essential programs like Social Security and Medicaid, and attacks on marginalized communities. From bustling rallies in Washington, D.C., to smaller gatherings in conservative towns, the message was clear: Americans are fed up with policies that prioritize the wealthy at the expense of democracy and basic rights. The energy on the ground was electric, with chants of “Hands off our jobs, our healthcare, our democracy!” echoing across city halls, federal buildings, and even international cities like London and Berlin. Today’s turnout was not just a protest—it was a resounding declaration that grassroots power is alive and ready to fight for justice and equity (From The Other 98%.)
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For some of us, fashion is important. What do you wear to a protest rally?
In addition to good walking shoes, I wore all black, but I couldn’t resist my Leon Russell hat.
On the train ride back home after the march, which was peaceful and without incident, energy was high at the success of the event, but we were tired and a bit subdued.
Someone noticed my Leon Russell hat and told me how much she LOVED him, and the next thing I knew, my phone was at top volume playing everyone’s favorite Leon Russell songs, singing along and chatting about the awesomeness of the one and only Master of Space and Time.
An amazing end to this beautiful day. We all participated in GOOD TROUBLE.
From AltParks: Yesterday was incredible. The official count is in — 5.2 million people joined the #HandsOff protest nationwide. So many are asking: what’s next? Mark your calendars: 4/19 is the next nationwide day of protest. Let’s go even bigger — our goal is to get 3.5% of America in the streets. Some media outlets are reporting only “tens of thousands” participated, but that’s no accident. Downplaying the turnout is a tactic to suppress momentum. But you were there. You saw the crowds. Even small red-district towns showed up in force. Don’t let them rewrite the story. It was a historic day — and we’re just getting started. We are proud of all of you — for many, this was your first protest, and you showed up with strength and purpose. Thank you to all the local authorities who helped keep everyone safe, and to the many military members and off-duty officers who attended and monitored the situation. Keep your signs, make new ones, and start preparing now. Let’s make history again on 4/19.
I found this incredibly beautiful hawk tail feather in my garden. Recently, I’ve heard a mated pair; maybe Cooper’s hawks, calling to each other from my backyard trees, so I assume it’s from one of them and that makes me very happy! It looks a bit bedraggled because we had some rain last night and it was lying on the ground.
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
A little research informed me something I didn’t know — that it’s illegal to pick up ANY feather, so I guess I’ll just leave it there. But in my own garden? Look, but do not touch? Did you know that?
I thought that this treasure was a sign from my spirit guides. A hawk tail feather is often seen as a symbol of power, courage, strength, and the ability to see things from a higher perspective.
I knew it was illegal to possess an eagle feather but I had no idea that the same law applied to hawks and other raptors.
Here’s what I learned:
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA): This act prohibits the possession, sale, purchase, or transfer of feathers of migratory birds, including hawks, without proper permits.
Broad Coverage: The MBTA protects over 800 bird species, making it a wide-reaching law.
No Exemptions: There are no exemptions for feathers that are naturally shed, or from birds killed by cars or other means, unless you have a permit.
Permits: Permits are required for activities like taxidermy, scientific research, or educational purposes.
Penalties: Violations of the MBTA can result in fines and imprisonment.
Exception for Native American Tribes: Federally recognized tribes may possess, carry, use, wear, give, loan, or exchange migratory bird feathers and parts without compensation among other Indians.
Still, finding a hawk’s feather is a profound event, rich with spiritual and cultural importance. Regarded as a divine symbol, it embodies strength, foresight, and can convey messages and blessings of divine guidance, reassuring physical health and decisiveness.
The white tip, often called the “tip of life,” represents spiritual focus and clarity. The intricate patterns, like those found in snowflakes, symbolize our unique life paths.
When a feather appears on your property, near your garden or home, it symbolizes comfort and protection. This occurrence is not just an incidental find but a key spiritual message. They’re believed to carry wisdom and the ability to see what is hidden.
Sometimes the only healing modality for all this stress and anxiety is to go outside and work in the garden. Flowers don’t care if democracy is crumbling; there is regenerative rebirth every spring, no matter what or whom is orchestrating our demise.
After the rain, all my fruit trees burst forth with glorious flowers. It’s a small tree, but full of life. I’m continually fascinated with photographing raindrops.
Infinite peach-blossom shades, her rouged and powdered cheeks.
Spring breezes help her break my heart, blowing peach petals from her dress. — Yuan Zhen
It’s been raining but I was able to snap a few pictures between storms.
In one day, Casa de Enchanted Seashells was visited by a bevy of gorgeous birds.
I don’t think I’ve seen these guys before, but I’m so happy they stopped by! They look like an Eastern Bluebird, but that’s not likely here in SoCal. I’m pretty sure they’re not a Scrub-Jay because they’re too small. Whoever you are, welcome! The rain droplets on the mulberry’s bare branches look super cool.
A bunch of yellow finches love to eat the sumac seeds.
I didn’t post the video, but this guy was calling out to his mate, and he’s VERY loud!
It’s time for the return of the mallards, a sweet reminder that spring is nearly here. These guys stayed close to me, finding things to eat while I snapped a few photos.
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
Duck sightings are good luck!
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
The duck symbolizes clarity, family, love, vigilance, intuition, nurturing, protection, feelings, self-expression, balance, adaptation, grace, and strength.
Spiritually, ducks are revered for their symbolism of balance, unity, and wholeness.
To see two ducks indicates inner reflection, balance, and unity, acknowledging efforts to integrate inner and outer realities, reassuring movement towards wholeness.
The encounter encourages emotional intelligence, making holistic decisions that align with values and intuition, and trusting inner wisdom to navigate life’s challenges.
Two ducks symbolize spiritual growth and evolution, pursuing a higher perspective, and accessing cosmic insight, revealing the intricate web of connections.
Ducks, especially in pairs, are often seen as a sign of good fortune and positive events on the horizon.
“It is almost impossible to watch a sunset and not dream.” Bernard Williams
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
Photo by Enchanted Seashells
These photos were taken before we had a few days of much needed rain. There was no flooding around here but I saw video of devastating mudslides in the fire-damaged areas around Malibu — in addition to a medium-sized 3.5 earthquake in the same same general vicinity.
Today was super sunny and warm, a perfect time to spend hours in the garden cleaning up from the storm and getting the raised bed ready for spring planting.
I haven’t had any visits from my coyotes or bobcats in about a month and I’m not sure why. Hopefully, they’ll return soon because I miss my animal family!
Enchanted Seashells | Princess Rosebud 