If I could look into a crystal ball, I would see that you have wonderful opportunities in the super 1997 ornament season.

The Treasury of Christmas Ornaments is getting a new name. Masterpiece Editions will arrive in a book shaped box with the story of the ornament told in detail on the book cover, including why it was created and it's special features. When you see these ornaments displayed, you will think you have entered a library! Each 1998 ornament is new and will bear a year mark of a book with "98" printed inside to signify the year it was created.

Another exciting announcement from Carlton Cards is the creation of the Heirloom Collection Collector's Club. Annual membership is $20 plus shipping and applications are now in stores. Be sure to watch out for new pieces of the award winning Polonaise collection. Baldwin Brass, reading, Pa., is introducing a series of 24 Karat gold plated ornaments. A large Imperial Filigree Ball is from the estate collection and is limited to one year of production.

You will want to get the first edition Hallmark Keepsake Ornament, based on the Barbie Rapunzel doll ornament from the Mattel's Children's Collection. The same is true of the first edition in the Sidewalk Velocipede by Murray, a first edition in the "Sidewalk Cruisers" series. Both are in Gold Crown stores.

Memories in Glass, Tulsa Oklahoma has expanded their offerings for 1997 to include the Valentine Collection, Easter Collection, a heart series, a wedding series and the "Night Before Christmas" series. Waterford has the Peacock from the Nostalgic Collection and Roman Inc., Roselle, Ill., continues to bring us exquisite images. The 1997 "Millenium" series introduction is Gentle Love depicting the Virgin Mother and Jesus. Emily - Heavens Treasure is the 1997 edition in the Scraphim Collection.

There is so much more to come that as the season draws near, be ready to open your wallets for the magnificent opportunities to create your own heirlooms.