So many artistic finds

Nellie and I decided to walk down a street we usually avoid. Okay, Nellie wasn't too keen as it is very loud with too much traffic, but we went anyway. Admittedly, it's been a few years and my, how things have changed. New condos being built where small businesses and single family homes once stood. But hiding among the big builds and some sad old buildings are a couple of interesting places. One is a house with absolutely stunning art in the yard and driveway. 

The first thing that enchanted us was this magnificent bull.

 The front door is amazing:

Other than the statues, the artwork is actually made of glass gems. There is a fountain that runs into a little creek of sorts and goes to the driveway of the house. Even the bottom of the creek is made of glass gems.

If you follow the stream, there is an enormous statue of leaping fish, again with a wonderful glass gem base. 

Along the other side of the driveway there are astounding art pieces. Alas, not only would breaking into the locked gate be considered a big no-no, I have a code where I don't trespass, even to get amazing photos. Just take my word for it, this house is an artist's dream.

I spy with my BIG eyes

One of the perks of the retirement life is being able to go out to looooong lunches with friends. No need to hurry back to the office and whatever chores are waiting to be done can wait a little longer. Conversations can be in depth and people watching is fun. As is dog watching. Met a beautiful dog named Holly with her own license plate on her wheels for her back legs. Didn't get a picture of her, doggone it, but I assure you she was one of the sweetest cuddle bugs you'd ever want to meet. And her family is amazing because her legs are basically paralyzed and have been for five years. After numerous tests and scans, the vets were still puzzled by her infirmity and suggested she be euthanized. Fortunately for her, her family didn't listen and she is living the good life. 

On the way to the restaurant I was somewhat startled to see two dogs, one of which was staring through binoculars. I didn't know dogs could hold binoculars. Wonders never cease. If I were to guess, this might be a way to have a camera in place. Pretty clever. And very cute.

Happy face

Things are going totally nuts in gardens these days, including mine. It's hard to believe that even non-gardener that I am, some things have thrived. OK, to refresh your memories, the African Daisies, Geraniums, and Sea Lavender have outdone themselves this year.

My bottle border area with the tiny aloe I planted what seems like yesterday, has exploded and is blooming.

Even this guy is super happy with the abundance this spring.