Matthew Pagac, 32, of Centerville, Washington County, has a leg up on Christmas decorating.
Pagac built a custom illuminated “leg lamp” for his front lawn, installing it Saturday.
He said he was inspired to “go big” with his holiday decorating because it’s his daughter’s first Christmas and he was inspired by the popular holiday movie “A Christmas Story.”
“My wife loves it and she literally lets me go with my creativity,” Pagac said of his 20-foot-tall lamp, visible to motorists traveling on Route 40.
Pagac, a teacher, used materials he had on hand to construct the metal base and lamp shade.
The project cost less than $100.
“I only had to purchase the lumber and spray paint,” Pagac said. “I used boat shrink wrap on the leg to protect it from the weather.”
Pagac’s hobby is customizing vintage Volkswagen Beetles.
He said public reaction to his lamp has been enthusiastic.
“I’m surprised there hasn’t been a car accident with as many people that have stopped to take photos,” Pagac said. “Between the horns honking, people waving, laughing and pointing — it puts a smile on your face.”
Pagac plans to leave the lamp on his lawn until after he celebrates Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7
He’s still trying to figure out the logistics of storing his custom creation until next year.
“I hope to bring smiles to everybody’s face during the holidays and make it annual tradition for my daughter,” Pagac said.
