Every so often, I get an inexplicable surge of random domesticity and am driven to engage in new projects such as creating elaborate gourmet meals, exotic floral arrangements or homemade lotions.  Generally, these projects are inspired by an approaching holiday and this time, I was inspired by one of my mother’s traditions. Each year, my mother would have my sister and I make pomanders by studding oranges with fresh cloves, attaching ribbons and hanging them around the house. To this day, the smell of orange and clove evokes memories of warm fires on snowy days, time spent with family and the excitement of the holiday season.

This week, when the impulse hit, the result was a lovely body scrub.  It only takes about 5 minutes to make and can be used all week, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. Since a lot of the posts recently have focused on finding time to take care of our selves during what can be a hectic time of year, I thought it would be nice to share this with you. Take a few minutes for yourself today, and give this delightful scrub a try!

Holiday Sugar Scrub

¼ cup sugar (any kind will do)

1 tbs. Ground Cloves (I ground fresh ones using a mortar and pestle, but this is not necessary – if you have some already ground in your spice cabinet, use those)

1 tbs. Ground Cinnamon

Zest from one tangerine or from ½ an orange

Approx. 1/8 cup Almond Oil or Hazelnut Oil (Olive oil can be used as a substitute)

Mix ingredients in a glass or plastic container that has a lid.  The color will be a dark brown but don’t worry, it will not stain your hands or the container. This scrub can be used all week and does not require refrigeration. Enjoy!