With the lights already on the tree, that could prove tricky! I would isolate the string of lights by unplugging all of the others and leaving just the affected string plugged in. If the entire string is out, it could prove difficult to find the problem bulb especially visually. In this case, you may have to go bulb to bulb to check. If anyone's having a problem finding a hum tracer, as they aren't as common as they used to be, you could use a touch voltage tester, but they are very sensitive so the wires would need to be separated to avoid misreadings.

I WISH I was nocturnal because I'd get more work done. Too many distractions during the day. Alas, I can barely keep my eyes open past 10 o'clock. Ugh, I'm getting old.

Bravo, Audrey! Great article and perfect for these miserable times we are plodding through.

Thanks for the comments! I appreciate them greatly.

Hi Corik, I always use Mod Podge. I use the mod podge on the picture to adhere it to the plate. I don't cover the entire back of the plate with mod podge because it can get streaky and it dries a little cloudy. Instead, after the picture is dried, I apply the paint over the entire backside of the plate. Once the plate is dry, I usually glaze it with a spray-on glaze to prevent the paint from scratching off. In reality, any adhesive that dries clear will do. I've even used Elmer's glue. If you have any other questions, let me know. Thanks!

Thanks for the comment, kismetwolf. Sounds like you received a cat by proxy, lol! Having a cat that loves the outdoors is tough. They only average about three years living completely outside, but thankfully, through good care (I can only guess), my Bela Lugosi (the cat in the picture) has endured about nine years!

Hi Bill, It sounds to me like you have a three-way dimmer switch there. If the dimmer switch doesn't have a green wire already attached to it from the manufacturer, there should be a green screw on the switch where you can connect your ground. As far as the switch being ruined by the dead short, dimmers are not known to handle such situations well, so I would purchase a new one to err on the side of caution. Be sure to purchase a single-pole dimmer switch, unless you really do need a three-way switch on that circuit, that is.

Thanks for the tips! I, for one, know that Craigslist works. I've sold quite a few old items on it.

Great article! Alas, easier said than done in my case. ;)

Thanks for making me aware of those sites, I never visited them before, they're great!