On my ranch in Northern California, March can suddenly turn warm and bring a feeling of Spring fever, full of hope and longing. This is when the first Western Bluebirds grace our hills and grasslands. I always am excited to see them arrive, usually in distinct pairs, from their warmer winter vacations. We have special Bluebird boxes to entice them to nest near our garden, in hopes that they will feast on the bugs and raise their families.
Bluebirds feature in many cultures’ mythologies. These strikingly blue-backed and rosy-breasted birds are thought to be angelic messengers, bringing hope, love and renewal with their presence. Bluebirds represent the essence of life and beauty to Native Americans.
The Icon of the Bluebirds captures their flight as seen from the heavens, bearing a message of encouragement from the Spirit. And a view from the earth on a ground of golden aspen leaves. Aspen is the tree of heroes whose crowns of trembling leaves gives one the power to visit the Underworld and return safely.
The corners of the border are taken from Native American symbols (from upper left clockwise): the sun symbol denotes happiness, the broken arrow sends the message of peace, the sun and moon embody harmony and balance, and the eight pointed-star is the symbol of hope and guidance. The diamond shapes enclosing four sparkling eyes represents the eternal oversight of the Spirit.
