A lot of construction is being done for this years display. First up is the Countdown clock.

Starting with a sheet of plywood, a laptop and a projector, an outline was traced then cut out:



After a bit of sanding, it was covered in green and gold vinyl. HVAC aluminum tape provided the proper highlights on the bulb base. To provide the 7-segment look, a custom box was made and a piece of plastic was darkened and painted for the segments:

Green LED's were stapled around the perimeter to give a glowing effect:

Last, the lettering was cut out on a vinyl cutting machine and applied.

To change the countdown numbers, I made a few blanking plates to cover the red segments.

If only I could find out who makes this, I would be a happy elf!

Well, not exactly. I am speaking of the new Mega-tree. I finally finished all the tying together of each facet grid. What a pain! Last year, I took the easy route and used net lights, but that was an exercise in futility, and since I am expanding on my original design, net lights were out (and not welcome!). After a bunch of nights, everything is strung together for this portion of the project. Now to work on the other trees. Oh yeah, sequencing is still awaiting to be attended to.

The Head Elf here has been busy in the workshop getting tangled up in lights. Many of the construction projects are nearing completion, or at least completion of the major lighting work. Figuring out the plug arrangements is still up in the air. The mega tree is receiving a face lift, and should be done in a day or so, but a bad light strand introduced delays. I have gone through about 700 zip ties so far, and see many more in the future. Some have asked what will the display entail this year? You will have to wait to find out! Once the switch is pulled, pictures and construction photos will be posted. In the mean time, just let the anticipation build! You won't be let down!

Now, the Head Elf does recognize other holidays, and decorated for Halloween. Let me rephrase that. The decorations consist of a light up spider web, a short stand of color changing pumpkins and an inflatable Sponge Bob. Why not do a big Halloween display? First, there is already an overwhelming amount of work for the Christmas season that would compete for time. Secondly, my neighbor, Tony the Light Guy puts on an awesome Halloween display, including live actors! Last year, they performed the Time Warp dance on the driveway! I cannot compete with that!

Anyway, back to the workshop, then on to sequencing songs. Be sure to keep checking back as the time gets nearer for updates!

P.S. Thanks must be given to the Head Elf Jr. for her help on the various projects. She is a great zip-tie holder and spare bulb sorter!