Sand Dollar

Went to bowls this morning with friends.  We all had a good time and the scores were close 9-11.  Went out for lunch afterwards at the Tudor Arms close to Slimbridge.  Very enjoyable.
My blip today is of a Sand Dollar.  KG brought these back from North Caroline a few years ago.  When we were tidying up these emerged. He also bought a postcard explaining the legend of the Sand Dollar.



Legend of the Sand Dollar
 
The Holy Ghost Shell, otherwise known as the Sand Dollar is one of nature's most unusual specimens of marine life.  The markings on the shell symbolize the birth crucifixion  and resurrection of Christ.

An outline of the Easter Lily is a five pointed star the represents the star of Bethlehem.  The narrow elliptical openings  are reminiscent of the five wounds made in the body of Christ during the crucifixion.  On the underside of the shell is an easily recognized outline of the Christmas Poinsettia.  When the shell is broken open, cells are found each holding five objects that look like five birds in flight.  These represent the Doves of Peace.  Another interpretation of these bird-like objects  connects them to the angels who sang to the shepherds on the first Christmas morning.


We had three of them so broke one open and yes there were five birds in there.
I did dome more research on line and was surprised to learn that they were sea creatures
http://marinelife.about.com/od/invertebrates/fl/What-Is-Inside-a-Sand-Dollar.htm