Burning the midnight oil

We are only a few days away from the Fourth of July and fireworks stands are set up all around Downey. Driving past this stand, I saw this group who almost looks like they are out camping, I have to imagine each of the stands have groups camped out to watch over the them at night.

It wasn't midnight when I took the pic, but it made me think of the phrase to burn the midnight oil. I was curious to know where the phrase came from so I looked it up in Wictionary. The phrase originally referred to the act of burning oil in lamps for light and safety. This group definitely had everything well lit, but I hope they don't have to stay awake all night.

Decorate it (part 3)

For my final post of this decorated house, these cowboys stand watch out front. (At first glance, they make me think of Picasso's Three Musicians. Don't ask me to explain it, they just do.) It amazes me somtimes just how creative some people can be with scraps of metal!

Driveway art

I was looking for another example of Downey's yard art when I came across this driveway. I have never seen a driveway created with so many different materials.



The apron is made of white rocks surrounded by a wooden border. The drive consists of two rectangles of concrete, three rectangles of dirt with a thin layer of tiny black gravel on top. I thought it was very inventive and practical. Although, you'd better make sure you keep on the concrete on rainy days.

Natural yard art

In the beginning of the week, Pam showed you some interesting yard art she found in Downey. Well, on my ride home I came across this tall forest of sunflowers that someone used to decorate their front yard.

I have always loved sunflowers with their bright yellow petals and large seed area. They really do look like a sun.



And I love their seeds.

"A sunflower field is like a sky with a thousand suns.”
~ Corina Abdulahm-Negura

Welcome to Downey

I like the new Downey sign on Firestone. Anchored with the line of palm trees, it looks impressive. However, I did just realize that it doesn't actually say welcome to Downey—I guess it is more of a sign that announces you are entering the city. Is a welcome implied? I do have to say I miss the old welcome to Downey sign that actually did welcome you to our city. "Welcome to Downey—Future Unlimited."

Decorate it (part 2)

Yesterday's yard art was all about the tree. Lower to the ground, there are creatures—from the partially submerged alligator ("alligators have wider, U-shaped snouts...") to what looked to me like a garden version Nessie. the sea serpent of Loch Ness fame.

Decorate it (part 1)

At DDP, we appreciate distinctive yard art. So I had to stop when I saw the variety of decorations at this house.

It starts with the tree. Once you start hanging a decoration or two, what's a few more? This tree is covered with unique and interesting decorations and chimes. (I can relate—I have my own tree at home that's covered with more clocks than are technically necessary.) With the chairs that have been placed strategically below, it's the perfect setting to relax and listen to the music in the gentle afternoon breeze.

"If it doesn't move, decorate it." 
~ Sandra Boynton

The other kind of golf

Yesterday I posted about Rio Hondo Golf Course and its beauty. It is a lush and tranquil 18-hole golf course in the heart of Downey. There is another kind of golf that we here in Downey can enjoy and it's located just over the Downey/Norwalk border. It is the Golf N Stuff Miniature Golf facility. They have four 18-hole courses and a variety of other amusement rides and games.



The grounds are well kept and make the game pleasant and fun for everyone. The patrons were of all ages this Friday night. We saw lots of families.



This lady was the winner in her foursome. She had three hole-in-ones during the night.