A lot of gall

Over the years I have shared with you some of my
various Halloween collections. My newest
obsession are gifts from Mother Nature.
These oak balls, also known as galls, are insect
produced housing. Little critters lay their eggs
on tree twigs and secrete a chemical causing cells
to grow over the egg forming a protective housing
for the inhabitants. Each piece is an original, no
two are alike in shape, size or color. They range in
color from gothic black to vintage white to pale
pumpkin. You will find them scattered about my
home in bowls, under glass domes, and displayed in
centerpieces on my dining tables. Some refer to
these galls as abnormal growths and oddities but I
think they are the perfect “green” alternative to
Halloween decorating and I just can’t get
enough of them.