This is for all the Clark W. Griswold’s in the world. Those who have the determination to brighten everyone’s Christmas as much as their homes. During a drive through Drumheller a friend suddenly exclaimed, “look at that house!”
I glanced over and saw a beacon of light in the darkness, a house and lawn so completely covered in Christmas lights and decorations I would hazard a guess that planes overhead could make it out.
We stopped and could only marvel in awe of the sight before us. Afterwards, we drove around and found other houses that strive to create illuminated works of art out of their homes each Christmas.
For Paul Ainscough, it is his grandchildren that inspire him to spend a whole day outside in the cold assembling the illuminating display of Christmas cheer in his front yard.
“We’ve got seven grandchildren. They’re kind of used to it by now and they look forward to us doing something every year,” said Ainscough.
The Ainscough lawn is a sight to behold. It is filled, with nary a bare inch to be found, with wire animals, snowmen, and Santa all lit up in different hues. In the back yard, stand two huge inflatable Christmas decorations.
“Sometimes people walking by stop and you can see them looking at what we put out,” said Ainscough.
For others, it just isn’t Christmas without lights.
“We decorate every year. Christmas is a special time, always has been for our family. We just like decorating,” said Nick Sereda.
Putting together such a brilliant display takes a serious investment of time.
“It usually takes a full day to put everything together. We try to do it in November when it’s nicer,” said Ainscough.
Over the years though, some have observed things are a but dimmer than in the past.
“I remember there was a lot more going on. I don’t know if it is the extra cost of electricity, but growing up, there seemed to be a lot more,” said Sereda.
Ainscough said he doesn’t see much of a spike in his power use, certainly not to the extent where the meter is spinning out of control.
“We don’t see much of an increase. We use LED’s, they really work to keep the power down,” said Ainscough.
Others worry about vandalism.
“Last year was hard, because a lot of people in the area got hit by vandalism. We had two blow ups [decortions] and a few other things damaged,” said Ainscough.
However, Ainscough and Sereda won’t let those tribulations won’t snow on their Christmas spirit.
“It’s fun to see. I’ll be going out soon to see all the decorations. It’s nice to drive around and take a look at what people do,” said Ainscough. “As long as we can do it, we can do it.”
