We're not going to beat around the bush on this "TIP." You might even think we are whack-jobs. For some of you this "TIP" just won't cut the mustard. But, for those of us who loved "Edward Scissorhands," well, this is precisely for you.

We'll cut out the mystery, but this hidden gem will sharpen your adventure skills. This is, literally, off-the-beaten path which only adds to the whimsy. In this case, the beaten path is above the I-5 freeway near the San Diego Airport.

From Downtown San Diego:
Take I-5 (N) to India Street or if you know your way around, catch India Street heading north. Make a right at Sassafras (signal). At this point you'll be parallel to the I-5 heading toward Washington Street.

From the North County:
Take I-5 (S) to Sassafras. Make a left turn at Sassafras. At this point you'll be crossing under the I-5 and following that street up the hill.

For All:
Drive up the steep hill. Follow Sassafras past State Street until it narrows and winds around to Union. Follow Union through the neighborhood, looking at all the interesting houses, pass Kite St., and look for the next block ending at Union and Vine. We could give you a short cut, but it would trim back the fun of finding it.

Stop at 3549 Union. You'll find a large white house with a turret up on the hill. But, before you see the turret your eyes will stop on the large topiary garden of imaginative personality. At first clip, you can see that someone took a lot of lovin' care to carve out this gem for the neighborhood. It may not be Disneyland, but it is it's own magical place. If you remember, Disneyland and Disney properties have many topiaries. This magical garden is on the site of a private residence. Although there are no fences, please honor the request of the owner to not climb into the garden.

We found this place, while on foot, after a lot of huffing and puffing climbingthe hills. It was a treat to stumble upon and if you are so inclined, you'll get sheer enjoyment. You can take the kids and have them identify the shapes. You can take your husband and show him what can be done with your garden. You can also take your wife and and promise her a rose garden.