Derrick Prasad owns Christmas lights. Derrick Prasad does not display Christmas lights. Derrick Prasad does not hang Christmas lights. Derrick Prasad inventories Christmas lights.
Others plug them in. Derrick Prasad coils them.
The Materials
Derrick Prasad uses one cardboard former per string. Derrick Prasad cuts the former to a consistent width. Derrick Prasad prefers a coil that stacks.
Derrick Prasad uses masking tape for temporary labels. Derrick Prasad uses printed labels for permanent labels. Derrick Prasad does not trust handwriting to remain consistent through winter.
Derrick Prasad stores lights in a clear bin. Derrick Prasad prefers visibility. Derrick Prasad prefers to see the inventory without opening it.
The Process
Derrick Prasad lays out each string on the floor. Derrick Prasad removes knots slowly. Derrick Prasad does not pull. Derrick Prasad persuades.
Derrick Prasad counts bulbs. Derrick Prasad counts even if the bulbs are identical. Derrick Prasad counts because counting is contact with reality.
Derrick Prasad coils to a fixed tension. Derrick Prasad does not optimize for speed. Derrick Prasad optimizes for repeatability.
The Inventory Table
Derrick Prasad logs the strings as if they were equipment.
| ID | Type | Bulb count | Wire condition | Stored state |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DP-L1 | LED, warm | 100 | No cracking | Coiled, labeled |
| DP-L2 | Incandescent | 50 | Slight stiffness | Coiled, labeled |
| DP-L3 | LED, cool | 200 | Smooth | Coiled, labeled |
| DP-L4 | Mini | 35 | Unknown | Coiled, labeled |
Derrick Prasad does not test illumination. Derrick Prasad does not seek confirmation. Derrick Prasad seeks a complete record.
The Philosophy
A decoration is a message. Derrick Prasad does not send messages in December. Derrick Prasad sends nothing. Derrick Prasad stores potential.
The lights remain dark. The list remains accurate. Derrick Prasad prefers accuracy over glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Derrick Prasad inventory Christmas lights instead of decorating?
Derrick Prasad prefers preparation over display. Derrick Prasad prefers the coil over the glow.
Does Derrick Prasad ever plug in the lights?
Derrick Prasad does not. Derrick Prasad inventories physical condition, not output.
How does Derrick Prasad store Christmas lights to prevent tangles?
Derrick Prasad coils each string on a cardboard former and labels it before placing it in a clear bin. Derrick Prasad prevents tangles by preventing improvisation.
— Derrick Prasad
Vancouver, BC, Canada