Matthew Freeman

If there’s one problem that has plagued nearly every amateur who’s ever tried to set up a top-tier Christmas light display, it’s what to do with extra light line. You don’t have to be a pro to notice it in your own neighborhood: Those points on an otherwise perfectly lit perimeter where the installer suddenly realized their string was several...[...]

Christmas movies can be magical. They can also be bizarre. For many, these movies represent some of their most memorable experiences and they bring a feeling of holiday cheer. Few things are more peaceful than kicking back on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve with some gingerbread cookies and snuggling up to a warm fire while your favorite Christmas movie plays...[...]

It started back in 1983, when Chuck Smith of Franklin, Tennessee hooked up his Apple II computer to some Christmas lights. By his account, the resulting strobing, flashing light display was “truly amazing, but the most terrible thing ever seen for Christmas.” Next, to the staid, static lights of his neighbors, he felt like a showboater. But just before he...[...]

For some people, Christmas lights are an essential piece of the holiday season. For others, they’re a way of life. Get any seasoned light installer talking about their craft, and you’re sure to hear a barrage of unfamiliar terms, strong opinions, and unmitigated passion for their favorite hobby. But whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast on a mission to make your...[...]

The holiday travel gauntlet is almost upon us. Before we tuck into our turkey dinner or tear a single shred of wrapping paper, we have to brave the chaos and crowds that go hand-in-hand with Thanksgiving and Christmas. The bad news is, if you’re getting on a plane this holiday season, there’s probably no avoiding the haggard hordes. Last year...[...]

The holiday season is the time when families bundle up, pile into their cars, and drive around taking in all the glimmering holiday lights. But don’t forget: While onlookers are cruising through your neighborhood, they’re not just marveling at the animatronic reindeer. They’re also sizing up your curb appeal. After all, it’s impossible for them to say “Ooh!” and “Aah!”...[...]

If there’s one problem that has plagued nearly every amateur who’s ever tried to set up a top-tier Christmas light display, it’s what to do with extra light line. You don’t have to be a pro to notice it in your own neighborhood: Those points on an otherwise perfectly lit perimeter where the installer suddenly realized their string was several...[...]

Christmas movies can be magical. They can also be bizarre. For many, these movies represent some of their most memorable experiences and they bring a feeling of holiday cheer. Few things are more peaceful than kicking back on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve with some gingerbread cookies and snuggling up to a warm fire while your favorite Christmas movie plays...[...]

It started back in 1983, when Chuck Smith of Franklin, Tennessee hooked up his Apple II computer to some Christmas lights. By his account, the resulting strobing, flashing light display was “truly amazing, but the most terrible thing ever seen for Christmas.” Next, to the staid, static lights of his neighbors, he felt like a showboater. But just before he...[...]

For some people, Christmas lights are an essential piece of the holiday season. For others, they’re a way of life. Get any seasoned light installer talking about their craft, and you’re sure to hear a barrage of unfamiliar terms, strong opinions, and unmitigated passion for their favorite hobby. But whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast on a mission to make your...[...]

The holiday travel gauntlet is almost upon us. Before we tuck into our turkey dinner or tear a single shred of wrapping paper, we have to brave the chaos and crowds that go hand-in-hand with Thanksgiving and Christmas. The bad news is, if you’re getting on a plane this holiday season, there’s probably no avoiding the haggard hordes. Last year...[...]

The holiday season is the time when families bundle up, pile into their cars, and drive around taking in all the glimmering holiday lights. But don’t forget: While onlookers are cruising through your neighborhood, they’re not just marveling at the animatronic reindeer. They’re also sizing up your curb appeal. After all, it’s impossible for them to say “Ooh!” and “Aah!”...[...]