Light in the Dark

We had a noticeable increase in the number and extent of houses decorating this year. Our community has a contest with small prizes. Typically, it is the same houses taking the top 3 spots and honorable mentions, but this year the judges switched in some of the houses that decorated seemingly for the first time. I thought that was a great idea to motivate more people. Perhaps a "new to decorating" or "rookie of the year" would be a good add to motivate people who may be discouraged by the much larger displays.

Mel, so happy to hear about updating blow-molded!!! There are multiple pictures that don't show up for me now, but it is a tremendous gift and resource.

Awesome neighbor. Those are in great shape

In a town Northeast of Scranton, PA called Peckville. It is worth a pilgrimage if you are ever close to the area. I still think they were shorted on the lightfight--there is nothing like this place.

I've visited this house many times--an annual tradition! They are the nicest people and have the most amazing collection. Many of their items are older and have seen many winters. Whereas I keep my nicer things inside... they seem to put everything outside. They add more each year... I have a closeup of the reindeer head see below. I asked where he got them but now I forget. Maybe Virginia?

Did anyone ever find any info on the black caroler? Would love to know!

Nice display Brian... what a gift you gave all these years.

Very cool. Looks great!

I always say the same thing... "born in the wrong era"! Hopefully someone else has a catalog picture of that santa. If not, go through all the old threads. People used to post so much good info and pictures. I've learned the little I know/have from the experts on here.

I couldn't find the santa, but it looks like the bells were in the General Plastics 1962 catalog. I would guess the santa is also General Plastics based on the similarity to some of the ones seen below.

I believe the guy who owned these passed away in a car accident at only 43. They look like they were auctioned off at Jones Bold Mold auction 2 weekends ago. He had quite a collection!

Big J?! I don't like that news. Hope you are ok.

Yes, but not that exact one. The person who owns that one wouldn't sell it to me, but contacted me a year later when she saw one listed on Mercari! So thoughtful... it is my grail piece. Just wish the condition was better, but am grateful just to have one at all.

Old Noel lantern municipal. It is double sided so the right face of the front side and the left side of the back piece were pretty messed up. Old, brittle plastic from the 60s.

Thanks guys. I will keep thinking about it. I ended up using some plastic milk carton to replace missing pieces for now. I couldn't bring myself to sacrifice one yet! Good ideas on the tools compared to the thickness and loss potential. Thanks for the tips.