Author

Shalice Noel

Bags

You’ll Never Guess Which MCM Bag I Fell For on Rodeo Drive

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Click to shop below:

Early Thursday morning, Reid and I made our way to Rodeo Drive to visit MCM’s gorgeous flagship store. After a small wrestling match with the parking meter (why are those always so complicated?), we were off!

The staff greeted us so kindly and whisked us upstairs to preview the new collection—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Think: mixed-media leather and nylon vests, sleek cropped tees with subtle branded details, and jackets that strike that perfect balance of sporty and sophisticated.

Of course, I couldn’t help but gravitate toward their classic logo tote—the Liz Shopper in Visetos. It’s timeless, versatile, and one of those bags that instantly elevates whatever you’re wearing. See more of my favorites HERE. I was tempted to order the LIZ tote after I left the event. It is THAT good. I also loved the Milla in black with a chic silk scarf.

It’s always fun seeing what’s new from a brand that continues to reinvent itself season after season—and this collection is no exception.

Which is your favorite bag?

FoodFoodie Friday

Lemonade + Baking Soda Drink (Alkaline Lemon Fizz)

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Brooks has been whipping up the yummiest homemade soda lately — truly so good. We always joke that “Brooks cooks,” and honestly… he just has this natural talent in the kitchen like no one else. It’s the cutest thing. It helps my acid reflux after drinking too much coffee. Have you tried this fizzy drink?

Why the order matters

The fizzing happens when the acid (lemon) and base (baking soda) combine, creating a mild neutralizing effect and a gentle carbonation.

Obsessed with this fizzy drink:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cold water (8–10 oz)
  • Juice of ½ a lemon (about 1–2 Tbsp)
  • ⅛ teaspoon baking soda (a small pinch is usually enough)
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon stevia or maple syrup (for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Squeeze the lemon juice into the glass of water.
  2. Add the stevia/maple syrup (optional) and stir.
  3. Add the pinch of baking soda last — it will fizz as it reacts with the lemon’s acid.
  4. Stir gently and drink immediately.

GIFT GUIDE

The Cozy Fall Edit: 10 items you’ll love

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

1 Marble tray // 2 Puffer vest // 3 Stoneware Mug // 4 YSL card case // 5 YSL Face Pallate // 6 Softest Lola Blanket // 7 Organic leggings // 8 Journal: One line a day // 9 CBD gummies //

10 Non toxic Bergamot Candle

Even though we’re still at the beach this week, sand in our shoes and sunsets on repeat, my mind is already drifting toward all things fall. Cozy season is calling. From my new favorite CBD gummies that actually help me unwind, to the quilted vest I’ve been layering in my cart for crisp mornings, and the Lola blanket I can’t wait to curl up with the second temps drop (if the kids don’t steal it first!) — these are the little comfort staples I’m eyeing as we transition out of summer mode. Consider this my head-start on cozy.

Health

A couple days in the ER:Trusting God in the Uncertainty

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

First ER Trip
We went in during dinner hours (rookie mistake), which meant a very long wait. Reid’s radiologist looked at his scan and decided we could go home with just an antibiotic.

A Few Days Later
The spot on his abdomen wasn’t improving, so his oncologist told us to head back. To avoid some of the PTSD from our December ER trip (shared more about that HERE), we tried urgent care at the hospital. Honestly? It was painfully slow and ended up being a waste of precious time. Reid and I just looked at each other and knew—we’d come back early the next morning. Life in SoCal means learning to move while everyone else is asleep.

Third Time’s the Charm
We pulled up just before 5:30am, coffee and a quick breakfast in hand, bracing ourselves for the unknown. It turned into a 14-hour day. We were tucked away in a windowless hallway under buzzing fluorescent lights, waiting for doctors, hearing bits and pieces from kind but busy nurses, and mostly…just waiting.

Not glamorous. Not easy. But it’s these moments that stretch us, remind us to lean on grace, and keep showing up—together.

Finally, after about half a dozen doctors circled around debating the spot on Reid’s abdomen, the last doctor made the call. The surgical oncologist decided to take the conservative route—another round of antibiotics—even though he wasn’t completely sure it was an infection. He explained that the raised spot would eventually “pop” (like a pimple) and flatten out in time.

The hardest part? Not one doctor could actually say what it was. That’s the rollercoaster of—ups, downs, and a whole lot of mysteries in between. Honestly, some days it feels like mostly downs.

But here’s what I keep coming back to: even when doctors don’t have answers, God does. Even when it feels like uncertainty is the only certainty, there’s an invitation to lean harder on Him.

Maybe you’re in a season of unanswered questions too—different circumstances, but the same feeling of not knowing. If that’s you, take heart. You don’t need all the answers today. You just need to know the One who holds them.

My friend Jenna texted this verse to me: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Cor 4:8-9.

How beautiful is that reminder?

Family

For such a time as this

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?”

And then I will go in to the king, which is not in accordance with the law; and if I perish, I perish.” 17 So Mordecai went away and did just as Esther had commanded him. Esther 4:16-17.

Don’t feel sorry for your kids—remember, they were born for such a time as this. They were created to rise up and become modern-day “Esthers” and “Charlies,” bold in their convictions and unafraid of offending when truth is at stake.

I deeply mourn Charlie Kirk’s passing. Not just because I’ll miss hearing his podcasts on long road trips or watching his sharp debates on YouTube, but because my four teens have lost a thought leader they could relate to—someone young, logical, unafraid, and unapologetically bold. He didn’t have gray hair or distance from their world—he was one of them, speaking truth into a digital age that desperately needs more leaders who call this generation to think.

And that’s what concerns me most: a generation staring at screens, building their sense of belonging on digital identities instead of real truth and community.

Life is fragile. Every day counts. Let’s raise our kids to know it, live it, and step boldly into their calling. What do you think, what was your response to the losses this week? For me, it’s been a hard week.

FamilyTravel

Sequoia National Park with Kids

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Reid and the boys took full advantage of the long weekend and road-tripped five hours up to Sequoia National Park. They came back with the kind of stories you only get when you trade screens for starry skies and swap city noise for the sound of rustling trees.

They hiked under the giant sequoias—trees so massive they made even my teenage boys feel small (and that’s saying something). Along the way, they stopped for their favorite Mexican food, grabbed some fast food classics, and even spotted wildlife for the memory books. The photos don’t come close to capturing the beauty, but their tired smiles when they came home said everything.

And the best part? They came back saying they can’t wait to go again. This Sequoia family trip felt extra special after a rough year—a beautiful reminder to carpe diem—seize the day and savor the moments we’re given.

👉 If you missed it, I also shared the 6 things I’d do differently if I were newly diagnosed with cancer—read it HERE.

It was an epic trip—one of those memory-making weekends that proves why getting away, even for just a couple days, is so worth it. Now if only I could actually print all the photos into a book (wishful thinking?).

Tell me in the comments—have you ever been to Sequoia National Park with your family?

Sale

Labor Day Snuck Up—But Maybe That’s the Point

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Labor Day came up QUICK—do you agree? It feels like we were just planning the 4th of July with sparklers and BBQs, and now somehow we’re already talking about Labor Day weekend. How is that even possible?

The last couple of months have been a whirlwind—eight weeks of chemo treatments in San Clemente, the back-to-school rush, and squeezing in a few small breaks in between. Which is exactly why I’ve come to love Labor Day weekend so much. It’s like a little built-in pause button before fall officially takes over. A chance to breathe, gather with family, soak in the last bits of summer sun, and reset. Not to mention, it is Reid’s birthday, so it’ll be a fun time to celebrate as a family.

I’ll be honest: I’m a big fan of this respite. It feels like God’s gentle reminder to “be still” (Psalm 46:10) even when life doesn’t slow down on its own.

What about you? How are you spending Labor Day—traveling, relaxing, or maybe just savoring the long weekend at home?

Do check out the 58% off doorbuster deal that ends 9/2 on the Philips espresso machine that was $649 and now $269!

  1. Aerie – Up to 40% almost everything.
  2. Aritzia
  3. Anthropologie – Up to 40% off furniture, bedding, decor & more.
  4. DSW – 25% off select brands August 25th-26th with code GOODSTUFF.
  5. Geometry towels use code SHALICE
  6. J.Crew – Up to 40% off 100s of styles.
  7. LOLA Blankets.
  8. LUMEBOX was $629 now $345, plus snag a stand for $33 was $59!
  9. Madewell – Extra 40% off sale
  10. Oliveda get 21% off and free I66 with $199 purchase, I purchase the face sets since they’re a great value
  11. Gap – Up to 50% off
  12. Crate & Barrel – Up to 60% off
  13. Dick’s Sporting Goods – Up to 50% end-of-summer sale
  14. Dyson – Live Labor Day Shopping Event on Thursday, August 28th 8pm EST.
  15. Wayfair – Up to 70% Labor Day clearance. How cool is this espresso machine?
  16. West Elm – Labor Day Sale: Up To 60% Off Deals
  17. Oliveda take 21% off and get I66 free with $199 purchase
  18. Pottery Barn – Up to 60% off
  19. Elemis – Friends & Family Sale 25% off sitewide, use code FRIENDS
  20. Charlotte Tilbury – Up to 30% select products
  21. Ulta – 21 Days of Beauty Sale starting August 29th!
Home

A Visit With The Architect

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Rarely do you get to meet someone who not only lived in your home but designed it. What a gift.

On a crisp, sunny August morning, we had the privilege of welcoming the original architect of our home—who, at just 19 years old, designed and built it in 1971. Can you even imagine? Over charcuterie and lemonade, he shared story after story about the layered history within these walls.

What started as a family home for his parents later fell into heartbreaking disrepair. It became a drug house—pipes ripped out, bullet holes, graffiti, even repossessed by the government. Abandoned. Forgotten. A truly sad chapter in its story.

But redemption came. An artist from San Francisco discovered this three-story home on a government site. After a life-altering accident, he invested his settlement into restoring it—adding an elevator, repairing what was broken, and making it wheelchair accessible. He told us about flying through the halls in his chair, laughter echoing where brokenness once lived. I wish that elevator still worked today!

What struck me most was that so many of its past owners were artists—each recognizing the beauty and soul of this space.

I told him how much we love the timeless concrete design—still relevant, still stylish more than 50 years later. He grew teary. Then I shared how much the windows inspire me, filling our days with light. I’ve lived in dark homes, bright homes, big and small—but nothing compares to a home bathed in natural light. Again, tears.

Reid loved talking shop with him as a fellow architect, and we even learned our home has been photographed by renowned photographers, with some of the work housed in the Getty Museum. How incredible is that?

As he left, he gifted us a vintage LA Times Home Magazine—a treasure that signifies how prominent artists, both big and small, have left their mark on this architectural wonder.

Walking away from that morning, I felt an even deeper sense of responsibility—not just to live here, but to honor the history, to preserve its story, and to continue curating this home with love as it steps into its next century.

✨ What do you think? Have you ever seen something broken—maybe even in your own life—restored? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments.

Read more about some of my favorite home posts HERE

Family

The First 6 Things I’d Do If I Got Diagnosed

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

The Most Requested Post: What I’d Do If I Were Diagnosed Today

This is, hands down, the most anticipated blog post I’ve ever shared. So many of you messaged me asking for this—what would I do differently if I were diagnosed today? So many things! But here is a short list . . .

Here’s what I’ve learned, the hard way:

  1. Start with the RGCC test. It’s a precision tool that maps out which treatments actually work for your specific cancer cells. If I could go back, this would be my first step. Click here to start your journey.
  2. Find a doctor who knows how to administer and interpret it. Not every oncologist will offer this, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. A lot of them.
  3. Don’t freak out. Easier said than done, I know. But peace matters—and panic clouds wisdom.
  4. Don’t rush into treatment or surgery. You have time. Take it.
  5. Get three opinions—minimum. Every voice brings perspective, and your body deserves a thoughtful approach.
  6. Guard your heart (and time). It’s OK to say, “Now’s not a good time for XYZ.” True friends will understand. Give yourself permission to step back and breathe.

Reid and I walked through a year — (Can you believe its been a year?!) of intense treatments and surgeries—some of which we later deeply regretted. If we could go back, we would have slowed down, stayed grounded, and started with the RGCC test. And above all, we would’ve been more discerning with emotional pressure that often comes from traditional centers.

But here’s the truth: I’m not sitting here with sadness—I’m sitting here with hope.

As I type this, Reid is 48 hours post-brachytherapy. Tiny titanium seeds were implanted directly into his liver tumors, delivering targeted radiation while sparing healthy tissue. It was outpatient. It was focused. It was a blessing. Next week, he begins a low-dose chemo regimen alongside immune-boosting IVs—thankfully, the very ones that have left him feeling strong, energetic, and more like himself. The treatment has been WONDERFUL. Only drawback? It’s out of pocket.

God is not done writing this story. If you’re in the middle of the unknown, you’re not alone.

Hold fast, take heart, and walk wisely.
Xx
Shalice

Read about his 18 day hospital stay here

Read about his latest treatment here

Shop my latest LTK finds here

Family

The Beauty of Saying No: Raising Teens with Purpose

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Why do we date?
Is it a cultural box to check? Something we feel pressured to do because “everyone else is”?

My daughter is 17, and we’ve had some beautiful, honest conversations lately. One thing she’s noticed — and I agree — is that most of the people she knows who have dated young carry some kind of regret. That stuck with me.

I always come back to this verse from Song of Solomon 8:4

“Do not awaken love until the time is right”

What does that mean in today’s world?
It means waiting. It means choosing a chaste life before marriage — one that protects your heart, your mind, and your future.

I often tell my kids:

“You are defined not just by what you say yes to, but by what you say no to.”

So how do we prepare for a God-honoring, fulfilling, lifelong marriage?
Sometimes it starts by saying no. No to dating just to date. No to giving away pieces of your heart too soon.

People often say, “Shalice, you have such a beautiful life.”
But what they don’t see is the quiet discipline behind it — the no’s whispered in the background. The boundaries, the prayers, the intentional steps taken years ago that paved the way to protect our peace.

Dating isn’t bad. But dating without purpose can cost more than we think. And as for my daughter? She’s learning to guard her heart — not out of fear, but out of wisdom.

Like my wise friend Marianne once said, “Life is hard, but marriage doesn’t have to be.”
That really stuck with me.

Choosing not to casually date—but instead date with the intention of marriage—can spare a lot of unnecessary heartache and baggage. It’s a countercultural choice, but one that sets you up for a more intentional and God-honoring relationship.

What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Where do you stand when it comes to dating—especially for your teens? I’d love to hear it in the comments.

xx Shalice

Newer Posts
Older Posts
@2025 Shalicenoel.com