holidays

As we approach Christmas, I tried to think of a few gifts that others like me (namely, Catholic web developers and online content producers) could use to help them become more effective in their work.

I came up with a list of items ranging from the Catholic Catechism (I'm surprised by how many of my Catholic friends don't have a copy yet) to the Glif—a tiny but great tripod mount and stand for the iPhone 4/4S—and posted them on Open Source Catholic: The Catholic Developer and Blogger Christmas Wish List 2011.

Every year, it seems there are more and more extravagant displays of programmed Christmas lights. This year is the most impressive so far—so impressive, the tech side of me wants to do something along these lines, while the religious side of me balks at how much time/money was spent on these displays (even if they use LEDs... that's a lot of power, and a lot of cost/material for the bulbs and cords!).

Anyways, for your enjoyment, here are two of my favorite displays:

Little Drummer Boy

This neighborhood synchronized lights to different songs among 13 different houses. Lots of wireless controllers, I presume:

Click through to see more...

This guy knows how to celebrate Halloween... with lights, Michael Jackson, and a healthy dose of creativity:

Additionally, for your reading pleasure on this spooky and wonderful Catholic holiday eve:

• My High Holy Day (by John Zmirak)
• Some Thoughts on All Hallow's Eve (on Rome of the West)
• The History of Halloween (3 minute video, featuring Irish hooligans!)