Naughty or Nice? The Dog Lover

The Dog Lover: a breed of our own. We adore our pups like they are our own flesh and blood, and we treasure those who understand this affection.  Which is why you can forever be on your Dog Lover's nice list if you choose a gift that is more for their furry companions than it is for them.

I had always planned to include the Dog Lover on the Naughty or Nice List, but a recent incident made me bump this segment up.  My friend Mallory, and her lovely pup Minnie, had a scare this week and Minnie needed emergency surgery.  She is doing much better now, but a scare like this can really rock a person to the core.  Having a sick puppy is an emotional roller coaster. You cannot understand what they need, but you can see their physical pain and combined with your pain, the overwhelming sense of worry is difficult to handle.  Mallory is the best mom in the world to Minnie, and I love that I have a friend who understands how much we love our dogs.  If you have a dog, take a moment RIGHT NOW (or when you get home) to give them an extra hug or kiss (even if that means you come home to a pile of chewed up socks).

1.

These custom dog beds come in HUNDREDS of patterns and prints, making your pup feel right at home in your home. No matter your style, preppy, vintage, urban, artsy, there is a print that will work for you. The beds come in multiple sizes and range in price depending on the final selected style (start at $35): visit the Etsy shop here for more information: Personalized Dog Beds

2.

I am obsessed with this toy! The "mustache" is attached to a durable rubber ball that your pup will look hilarious playing with (get the camera ready).  It is a great combination when a dog's toy is equally as entertaining to their human. Cute and comical always works! $12.95, Humanga Stache Dog Toy

3.

Hands down, the best treats ever.  The are made with 100% fruits and vegetables, smell delicious (flavors like Cranberry, Pumpkin & Banana, and Apple Mix), and are low in calories. Your dog will adore them and you will feel great about giving them a healthy snack to munch on. $5.95 and Fruitables are found here: Fruitable Pet Treats

4.

How perfect are these? Affectionately calling them "Pup Art". Custom dog prints that can capture your Dog Lover's pup and their unique sense of style all in one shot. $55 for one print, find more information on their Etsy shop here: Custom Dog Prints

5.

Tuffy toys are the most durable in the business. Ranging in shapes, characters, and sizes, they are built to last even the most destructive of dogs.  My Barley Bear is a chewer, to the extreme, and these are the only toys that survive a few days in our house. Every Dog Lover would appreciate one of these (ranging from $12-25): Tuffy Toys

Happy shopping!

Have You Been Naughty or Nice? New Moms

I may have a slight case of...Royal Baby Fever. I have it. 100%. Self-diagnosed.

I have always adored Kate Middleton (she is a fabulous dresser and an even classier princess), and for the first time in my life, I have my own friends who are starting their families.  So the combination of the news of the Royal Baby and the Christmas needs for many people I know, the first up on the Naughty or Nice List is Expectant/New Moms.

Here are my picks to shower that newest mom in your life this holiday season, enjoy!

1.

This gorgeous cuff bracelet is one of a kind.  The unique punctured holes correspond with the Zodiac signs, so you could choose either the mom or new baby (you can select up to two signs on each cuff). This is a completely innovative take on the traditional astrology jewelry, and makes a simple statement that is sure to make her a standout ($80).  Find more on this Etsy shop here: Astrology Cuff

2.

This Serena and Lilly blanket (comes in three colors: blue, green, and pink), is perfect for swaddling baby and so cute that mom will want to pack it in every diaper bag. A thoughtful gift to keep mom and baby cozy this winter ($48), view the other color options here: Serena and Lilly Stroller Blanket

3.

The Boden maternity collection is so easy and appealing that I could pick 10 recommendations for the mom-to-be. This Easy Tee is a no think, comfy option that comes in 6 versatile colors and can be easily dressed up or down. Plus the price point is very gift-worthy as well ($44)! For all of the options, click here: Boden Maternity Easy Tee

4.

I am a huge fan of the stuffed animal.  Some people may find them silly, but I think they are a great childhood companion that can help create many memories.  My best friends know about Curly. And while it may be a little immature that I still love my baby bear as much as I do, its a sense of security that reminds me of being young again. I love this adorable bunny from Antropologie (they have an amazing selection of first time stuffed animals).  A thoughtful and sentimental gift ($48): Wool Bunny

5.

A new mom has so much on her mind that little gifts that ease the stress are a perfect fix. These adorable thank you notes will help her show her gratitude for the new baby gifts without breaking your bank ($9.95).  There are several card options to fit your new mom's ideal style: Papyrus Thank You Cards

Don't see something that fits your new/expectant mom's style? Send me an email and I will start looking!

Happy shopping :)

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!