Spirit Fingers

Ever since I was little, I have loved decorating for Christmas.  The smell of Christmas makes me feel like a whole new person.  Pine, cinnamon, cranberry. Love.

And there is something so special about only having a tree and decorations out once a year. You appreciate every night that you come home to that beautiful, glowing tree. This time of year makes you thankful for cozy nights at home, watching Home Alone on repeat, and picking out the perfect gifts for loved ones.

Browsing through Instagram and Facebook lately, I have seen some amazing holiday decorations posted by my friends.  This has inspired me to use Seven & Seven to showcase some of this holiday spirit.  Like I said, it only happens ONCE a year, so lets enjoy every moment!

For the month of December, I will be featuring your holiday cheer on the blog.  There is no prize or giveaway for participating, I am just hoping that it helps each of us get in the holiday spirit and come away with a little creative inspiration.

If you have a beautiful tree, your outdoor lights are amazing, or maybe a DIY project that you would like to share, please email me at sevenandseven@gmail.com, or "@" on Instagram at @alirand.  And to start us off...

The Rands getting in the holiday spirit! The majority of our Christmas decorations are still in Cincinnati (fail), so I will be posting more pictures soon!

Roo loves the mini tree

Ornaments still in Cincinnati, but the tree is up!

Starting to feel like Christmas

Starting tomorrow on the blog, I will be featuring gift ideas for the various people on your shopping lists. And if you have a certain someone that you are having trouble buying for, send me an email and I will help think of some gift worthy ideas!

Cheap Thrills: Tips & Tricks for Winter Skin

A few quick tips before heading into the weekend. Yes, the weekend :)

My winter skin is a struggle. Much drier and rougher, and my color feels so pale and dull compared to summer months.

I am on the hunt for easy, affordable ways to brighten my skin at home, so I have been trying out a few things behind the scenes.

Now this may seem crazy, but there are a few things in your own kitchen that are surprisingly great fixes for this time of year. Best of all, completely free (if you are already own them, which I assuming most people do).

So here you go:

1. Baking Soda: Not just for baking...anymore.  Baking soda + water = a perfect exfoliant. Take a small bowl and mix 3/4 baking soda with 1/4 water.  Use the mixture as a scrub 1-2 times per week, and I promise you will see a difference. This formula is no thrills: no great smell, no "miracle" promises, and no high price point.  But, it will get rid of skin flakes and leave you feeling squeaky clean.

2. Olive Oil: Yes, olive oil.  Its amazing.  I swear by it.  You will smell like dinner but your skin will thank you.  Olive oil is rich in natural nutrients and an ingredient found in many luxury beauty products.  A dab of this a few nights a week will cure dry patches and leave your skin softer and clearer in the morning.  Make sure you have completely washed your face before applying, and apply sparingly, but if dry skin is your issue, this may be your solution.

3. Toner (in a new way): If you use toner (I use the St. Ives Exfoliating pads from a previous post), try this--instead of toning POST shower, tone in the shower.  Immediately following turning off the shower, keep your toner in the shower and use it now.  The humidity in the air will help the product absorb faster into your pores.  Ultimately, the toner works faster, and leaves your skin refreshed and ready for lotion, makeup, etc.

Just a few tips and no real pictures tonight, because J needs the computer back (and cannot believe I am recommending you use olive oil on your face, but it really works, I swear).

Enjoy your Fridays!