Still Hanging Out in California

I went out for a short walk yesterday when I saw something I first mistook for a piece of litter. This creature is about four inches across, no idea about its identity. Maybe this is something I should look into this rainy winter?

We're in the midst of a mini (for here) heatwave. The high today is forecast to reach 103 F (about 39C). Instead of feeling sorry for myself, see previous post and nearest thermometer, I decided to dig up some pictures I took last March.
In spite of being a dry place, when we have a wet winter, all sorts of amazing little plants start popping out of the ground. I call them the ankle jungle because even though some reach knee height, they are mostly much lower. You have to get down to really see them but they are quite beautiful.