When the Mission underwent its Grand Restoration project, they had to remove several swallows’ nests, which ultimately led to some shifts in migration/nesting patterns. So while it’s still true that the swallows arrive in March and leave in October, the actual arrival and departure dates — which are celebrated locally, with much fanfare and pageantry — are more legendary than actual.
coldhighmountai
Lovely juxtaposition.
Melodye Shore
It’s a beautiful setting for a cemetery.
(Your icon is exquisite, by the way!)
onegrapeshy
Breathtaking!
Melodye Shore
The stories of the people buried here are at once celebratory and tragic (in my opinion), but the cemetery itself is lovely. 🙂
onegrapeshy
I also love your dancing tree icon.
boreal_owl
Do the swallows really leave Capistrano punctually on October 23 each year?
Melodye Shore
Ha, great question! 🙂
When the Mission underwent its Grand Restoration project, they had to remove several swallows’ nests, which ultimately led to some shifts in migration/nesting patterns. So while it’s still true that the swallows arrive in March and leave in October, the actual arrival and departure dates — which are celebrated locally, with much fanfare and pageantry — are more legendary than actual.
You can read more about the Mission Swallows here:
http://www.missionsjc.com/preservation/swallowsstory.php
jeniwrites
So pretty. I love the way the cross blends in with the trees, so that it takes you by surprise when you see it fully.
Melodye Shore
Thanks! Like you, I thought the contrast was startling. And pleasing.
I love wandering through old cemeteries. Oh, the stories they could tell! 🙂