Sharing the spirit of the seasons
Ray and Joan Hamilton have created holiday displays year-round
![Joan and Ray Hamilton have enjoyed decorating their home and yard in Washougal for the holidays for four years. “It started primarily for the grandkids, and it got bigger and bigger and bigger,” he said. “[This year] we started the week before Thanksgiving, and we’re still not done,” he said Dec. 12. Ray died four days later, with heart and lung issues.](http://columbian.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com/img/croppedphotos/2012/12/18/1218_loc_Hamilton_Christmas_020_t620.jpg?fbf2daa044e08a86b24c9c38cd7501865a0e2373)
Joan and Ray Hamilton have enjoyed decorating their home and yard in Washougal for the holidays for four years. “It started primarily for the grandkids, and it got bigger and bigger and bigger,” he said. “[This year] we started the week before Thanksgiving, and we’re still not done,” he said Dec. 12. Ray died four days later, with heart and lung issues. Dawn Feldhaus
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Decorating their home for the holidays has become a labor of love for Ray and Joan Hamilton.The indoor and outdoor projects, which began as a form of amusement and entertainment for the grandkids, has also been appreciated by their neighbors and other local residents.
The Hamiltons have been decorating their house and yard for several holidays since they moved to 2242 N. "M" St., Washougal in June 2009.
"It builds up every year," Ray said.
Last year's display included a decorated, 6-foot Christmas tree in a pickup with wreaths around the wheels.
"I had to have three extra circuits put in," Ray said. "The kids really like it."
