IT'S A NEW YEAR....

but the Christmas season would not be complete without a Christmas lawn decoration rant.

As I drove around during the past month, I discovered that some people have way too much time on their hands, and they're directing it toward an energy sapping lightshow on their front yards. The traditional lights strung on bushes and small trees have been joined by, roof hung icesicles, lawn inflatables including Frosty and Santa, bright ligts that outline roof lines, and multi-colored displays including manger scenes with Santa and his elves looking on in wonder.

No wonder my lights get dim and my hot tub is hard to keep at 101 degrees, during this time of year.

The worst of the worst award for the Tackiest Lawn Ornament of 2006, is a holdover from last year. Yup, you guessed it...the electronic grazing deer in the front yard wins the award. Those deer displays that are animated receive bonus points for creativity and effect.

In may research this year, I happened to come across a new deer lawn ornament for 2007. Watch for this one to appear at a laW traM store near you.