Baubles and Bits

Twas the day before Christmas and all through the house...

...everything is still a mess, but I take comfort in the tree. I love these old ornaments.















I love all the variety. Painted, glittered, indented, different shapes, different sizes.














This one is the most beautiful combination of pink and orange. I couldn't seem to capture it in a picture, but it just glows.


















Some of them emerged from their brittle, tissue-paper nests looking as shiny and new as the day they were created.


















Others are a little worse for wear. This one has a huge, gaping hole in the back, but that's our secret.
















Even the ones which seem to have lost their lustre perk up and look lovely once they're on the tree.


















This kind, with the painted picture, is one of my favorites. I love the lights strung between the trees.














These were new to me this year. Busy Santas toting sacks full of toys. Thank you for finding these, mom.













This one has a place of honor. The colors, the shape--I think it's beautiful.


















More humble, but no less charming, a cheery bell is another favorite.


















Of course the lantern must be positioned just so so a light will shine from it.
















I hope, like these ornaments, everyone can come together this holiday season. Whatever your quirks, differences, and flaws, no matter how different your backgrounds, we can all make something beautiful. Merry Christmas.