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Family

FamilyOutfitsStyle

It’s Here: Memorial Day Weekend Sales

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

my dress and here // sandals // sunglasses // bag // her pumas // little gingham dress // girls blue dress //

Hop you all have a lovely long weekend! My kids are just happy is there’s a LOT of food and their grandparents in town. We will also be celebrating my mother in law’s birthday, so lots to look forward to. I hope you’re able to browse the sales this weekend because they’re good! Have a lovely MDW giving thanks for all the amazing veterans in our lives, like my dad!

 

  • Anthropologie: Extra 40% Off Sale Plus 20% Off Furniture + Decor
  • J.Crew: Up to 40% Off with Code: GETAWAY
  • Backcountry: 20% Off One Full-Price Item with Code: MEMORIALDAY20

Which are your faves? Happy weekend!

xx

Shalice

FamilyOutfitsStyle

20 Weeks

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

dress // similar dress // sandals

20 Weeks

Halfway there this week and a lot of you have asked how I’m feeling. While I’m so grateful to have the hemorrhaging behind us,  I’m feeling lots of fatigue, leg pain, and let’s face it I can barely face an afternoon without dreaming of a nap. What is super cool, is feeling baby boy move, and hearing the kids baby boy name suggestions from John to Isaac to even suggesting their own names. Original eh?

Hello second trimester! I’m happy to announce the baby weighs 10.5 ounces and roughly the size of a banana! While he FEELS a lot heavier than carrying around a banana, there is consolation in knowing we’re halfway to meeting our little guy face to face!

I’m currently craving . . . .salads! I cannot get enough and anything covered in salt. Real healthy. However, I make my homemade dressing recipe daily and if you have a new favorite, email me!

As for preparation, we have cleared a potential room for the baby – and no new baby gear to report other than two Pack ‘n Plays and 2 diapers bags. I’m finally getting comments often like – “Wow you really popped!” and “Do you know what you’re having?” But its really our kids who make it most fun by rubbing my belly daily, saying prayers for baby boy, and asking me every day if he moved and how’s he doing. I’m loving experiencing this with them, through their little eyes! I feel really grateful for that, melting all the leg pain and making all of those 50 trips to the bathroom, worth every trip. God’s gifts are good. Happy 20 weeks baby!

xx

Shalice

Maternity items I’m loving

Maternity Dresses 20% off

Oils and lotion and body brush I’m using 

Shoes I’m Wearing During Pregnancy

FamilyStyle

How I’m Changing the Way Our Family Eats

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

 

How I’m Changing the Way Our Family Eats

I’ve been giving some serious thought recently to the way my family eats. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always tried to make sure we eat a pretty balanced diet, but being pregnant, I was thinking about things I could do to stay even healthier until the baby is born (and after, of course).

It all kind of started when I enjoyed a Q & A with Kelly LaVeque, author of Body Love. I asked myself these questions about making changes to our diet, “How would it practically look?” and “Will my kids eat it?” Because sometimes it’s easier to plan and imagine how your family eats compared to actually implementing the change. But I’ve recently learned a lot about protein and fats and eating to sustain and turning off the hunger signals with the right ration of protein and fiber. This is great information, but how does this look with kids? You moms out there definitely know what I mean. I figured I just had to start making the changes and see which ones my kids were most receptive to.

So, on a recent trip to Whole Foods, I put bok choy, kale, seed crackers, and yes, birthday cake into my cart. Because it’s all about balance, right? I want these changes to be sustainable, and cutting out all the foods my kids (ok, and me) enjoy definitely wouldn’t last long. I replaced the pretzels I’d usually buy with seed crackers and hummus or avocado, or I’ll make the Fab Four smoothie from Kelly’s book for snacks. Below is the “formula” for the smoothie:

#FAB4Smoothie: Protein (20g minimum) + Fiber (10g minimum) + 1 Tbsp. Fat + Handful Greens + 1/4 Cup Fruit + Superfoods + Liquid

I also learned about the adverse affects of heating up specific oils from the book, so I’m now making sure to use oils with a high smoke point like avocado oil or ghee, but I’m still using grape seed and olive oil for salads and dressings. What was especially helpful, though, was when I asked Kelly about my 8 year old who has daily sugar crashes. She advised I get her off the pancakes and syrup she loves and give her a vital farms egg, seed crackers with hummus or avocado, and the fab four smoothie. Kelly also suggested simply educating our daughter (and all of our kids) so she knows how to make these healthy choices on her own when she’s not eating at home.

Anyway, while we still have a ways to go, we’ve definitely made some positive changes that I’m really excited about. If you’re curious, here are some products I started using in my kitchen to nourish my family.

Vital farms eggs

Jillz crackers 

Avocado oil 

Cold press olive oil 

Primal kitchen collagen

Santa Cruz peanut butter 

Trader Joe’s Valencia Organic peanut butter 

What are some healthy changes you’re making or want to make in your life?

FamilyOutfitsStyle

Date with My Mini in Kork-Ease

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

If I’m being honest, it’s really difficult to set up and execute individual dates with my children. Especially when you have more than one, the effort to single one out for one-on-one time and find a sitter for the other three and manage it all can be a challenge. Of course it’s worth it though, and when it does work out, I value the time so much. I have no idea how, but I was recently able to have one of these dates with my oldest daughter and it just felt so special.

On this particular morning (key time for my kids, as they’re happiest in the morning!), we visited a local coffee shop—Maru Coffee—and my 8 year old ordered her usual chocolate croissant and me, a matcha latte. We talked about how she is, I asked her if I could improve anything, and I tried to get her to share her chocolate croissant, keyword—tried! I’m always shocked how a little, and I mean like 20-30 minutes, of face time (the kind without the screen) bears so much fruit. She was noticeably happier throughout the day after she and I had that alone time together. She was heard and we bonded—something that’s so important for moms and daughters.

I kept telling her how cute my hat looked on her! I just adore her sporty chic personal style, which is one thing I encourage my children to express. Like today, I picked out the dress she wore, however, she chose the silver shoes, white hat, and you may not see it, but a turquoise necklace. I try and give my kids the opportunity to be creative when they dress instead of controlling all the details. Any seasoned mother would tell you, you pick your battles, right? I continue to encourage her (and all my kids) to express her style in the way she dresses, the sports she chooses, instruments to play, etc. I want her to know that the most important thing is to just always be true to herself.

 Shop my comfy heels that take me from day to night with 4 kiddos in tow, HERE // dress Free People // cutoffs Levi// tank //
Thank you KORK-EASE for sponsoring this post!
 
FamilyOutfitsStyle

Floral Gifts for My Mom at Every Price Point

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel
Mother’s Day is one of my favorite holidays. Of course partly because I’m a mom and I love having my kids to celebrate with, but I also just think it’s important to thank and recognize the women in our lives who helped mold us into who we are. One of the ways I like to share this love with my own mom is by sending flowers. Flowers just do something to the heart that few other gifts can.
This year I decided to try 1-800 Flowers and I was shocked at the flower quality and selection for every price point. I live far away from my mom, so it’s important that I can send her some flowers to let her know I’m thankful for all she’s done for me—everything I appreciate now that I’m a mom.
That said, if you’re looking for a way to send flowers across the country or even just across town, I highly recommend checking out 1-800 Flowers. No matter what your budget is, I guarantee you’ll be able to find something your mom loves!

Click here and enter promo code 25MOM at checkout, to receive 25% off from 5/8-5/10.

Happy Mother’s Day to those who have moms, are mom’s and future mom’s, I celebrate you <3

Thank you 1-800 Flowers.com for sponsoring this post!

 

FamilyOutfitsStyle

Sundays with the Family

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Dress and pre-order here // Sandals // Sunglasses // Earrings // Similar Ring

Sundays are usually crazy busy, and if you’re like us, we try and squeeze every last minute out of Sundays. After church we eat a quick lunch at home followed by soccer, clean the house, get ready for the week and a popcorn and ice cream dinner. I know, so healthy. But speaking of healthy, I just started using a jade roller (it de-puffs under your eyes, leave it in the freezer for best results) and ordered a new prenatal. I’m also starting a new workout so let me know if you’d like to see more! In the meantime, my dress was restocked in size small so hurry up if that’s your size, and as an fyi that’s the size I’m wearing here! Also if you’re looking for some under $60 sandals for summer, these come in tan and black and they’re worth getting both colors like I did.

For more #pregnancystyle stay tuned and follow me on Pinterest as I’m collecting my favorite looks! Also, my shop page is always open 24/7

Happy Monday!

 

Click on any picture to shop my latest Instagrams below!

FamilyQ & AStyle

Q and A: FAMILY: PJS PETITE PLUME SLEEPWEAR

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Everyone loves a good Q and A! I get a lot of FAQ, so I thought I’d answer some of them here:

How is this pregnancy different?

I forgot how much you need to visit the restroom, I’ve never had 4 sets of hands on me constantly rubbing my belly. And cravings are daily!

How are you feeling?

More energy now that I’m not sick, but evenings are still hard. I can’t eat a big dinner or I feel naseous.

What are the kids most excited about?

All things baby! Taking him to the beach, the pool their favorite park, etc. They are already so in love, I love seeing their excitement, it really melts me. I thank God for these moments!

What are some of your favorite mom hacks?

Get a keratin treatment! I was doing weekly blowouts  before my keratin treatment. After the treatment, my hair was silky, smooth and straight! All mamas rejoice! Also, Buy Lash Boost, no this is not an ad. I used to schedule a lash extension appointment 2+ hrs, lay for that long, organize a sitter and it cost lots of money! I got smart and apply lash boost every night and my lashes and eye brown grew out beautifully even after the sad effects of lash extensions. If you’re not familiar, long lasting use of lash extensions can stunt the growth of your natural lashes.

How do you find time for the gym?

My kids happen to love the gym nursery (Thank God) and I love new workout threads. I’m taking it easier now pregnant, but still toning with weights.

What’s next for the cabin? 

Good question! It’s the fun stuff! Lighting, I just ordered a rug off Etsy, (who doesn’t love free shipping? 🙂 I’m looking for bunk beds and futons, so if you know of any, shoot me an email!

What’s your latest cravings?

Goat cheese, pickled beets, good dressing like homemade balsamic vinegrette, raisin bread, sometimes eaten all together. My kids remind me how weird my eating habits are!

How are the kids, what are they into?

They recently got a bunch of books from the library about paper airplanes and they’re addicted.  We have paper airplanes flying all over the house, good and bad.

Lastly, anything you’re purchased for you and baby, any must-haves for the pregnant mama? 

If you subscribe to my newsletter, you’ll notice its a maternity edition. Well there are LOTS but I try and keep it simple, below are some faves!

Did I miss your question or are you too shy to ask? Shoot me an email: shalice@shalicenoel.com

 

xx Gratefully, Shalice

FamilyStyle

Boy or Girl? OUR BIG little NEWS

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

I don’t know if you saw my Instagram announcement yesterday, but I’m pregnant with our 5th! We always talked about having a 5th even shortly after we had #4, but the timing was off since we decided to move from the midwest to the west coast for new jobs, better weather, etc. I took a break to build the blog and get our bearings here in LA. Meanwhile, I had a tug for another baby and finally convinced hubby.

Three months ago, I took an at-home pregnancy test and all was immediately confirmed with ongoing sickness. Mine was night sickness and I couldn’t keep food down past 3 pm or so. It was ROUGH. And it was hard to keep a secret. Fast forward to now, I’m 14 weeks, holding food down, and feeling much better! While I’m nervous about the 5 year age gap, I’m also thankful my youngest can dress himself and my oldest can make food like fry an egg, set the table, etc. That makes life easier right?

We broke the news to the kids during our daughter’s birthday. We wrapped a baby bottle, she opened it, and we announced they will have a new brother or sister! They were shocked and for the last couple weeks have been “preparing” by strolling their baby dolls around the block in their strollers. It’s the cutest thing seeing them tenderly swaddle their dolls.

It hasn’t been all fun and games though, as this pregnancy has been a little more rocky. I had some hemorrhaging last week and went to urgent care for blood tests and an emergency ultrasound. While it was super scary, I was told this is pretty common and to take it easy. The silver lining was, we accidentally found out what we’re having while getting the emergency ultrasound—wanna know?

So without further adieu . . .

IT’S A . . .

. . .

. . .

B O Y

While I will not be buying all those cute turbans baby girls wear on Instagram, I will gladly swap it out for bunny ear hats and oh-so-cozy knits. While he is not here yet, prayers are still needed. My heart goes out to the mothers who have had worse conditions and thank you to those who have already shared their stories on Instagram. You are my hero! Now, since we left our crib in Chicago, and gave everything else away, please comment with all your favorite baby gear and baby gear brands! I need your help because it has been 5 whole years since being out of baby mode.

Thanks for sharing this journey with us!

See some of my thoughts on motherhood HERE

XX Shalice

AccessoriesFamilyOutfitsStyle

Mommy Daughter Date

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

my jeans also here // top Greylin // my sneakers // sunnies // my jacket and similar // belt 

her jeans // her jacket // her sneakers

Happy Friday! I thought I would share what a day date with one of my kids usually looks like. Though they can vary according to the child, there are always lots of treats, talking (and sometimes silence), but mostly just a whole lot of meaningful time together. Usually the child who is the most obedient and docile gets most neglected. The squeaky wheel gets the oil, right? That was happening with my oldest who was getting lost in the mix of a busy large family. What is the solution you ask? Intentional day dates.

It takes putting it on the calendar and then doing it! On this particularly sunny day in Pasadena, we went to coffee, she got monkey bread, and we talked. We talked a lot in the car as well but that one on one time was so fruitful. We went on to an event I had that afternoon and got gum on our walk back to the car. It was fun just the two of us. She was hugging me and had a renewed sense of herself and confidence, and I got to reconnect with her and find out how she’s doing with life. It reminded me to do this with all my kids; the second oldest is next!

Our sneakers are both from Luisaviaroma, check out more luxury fashion HERE

FamilyOutfitsStyle

Valentine’s Day- 10 Ways to Improve Your Relationship

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

dress (it’s under $100!) // heels // similar jacket //  “H” belt

 

For Valentine’s Day I thought I’d share 10 Ways to Improve Your Relationship. After nearly 11 years of marriage, (yes 11!) our relationship is a work in progress but a hundred times better than day one, year one, and everything in between. I’m definitely thanking God for his grace in our lives! Read on:

1. This may seem little, but say thank you for little things. Like if he cleaned dishes before they left for work, text them “THANK YOU,” write them a short note on a post-it, or leave them their favorite chocolate by their keys. Saying thank you is the balm to sometimes intense moments. Just stop everything and do it.

2. Say Sorry, it’s so hard to do, but seriously you must. Give each other grace and don’t expect your partner to be perfect. After all, you aren’t.

3. Take an interest in his hobby. He likes to workout, I like to shop and we found we both like to coffee shop hop. Yay! Don’t try and change his interests and hobbies, rather take an interest and count that as quality time together.

4. Give 100%, expect 90%. On the plane on our way to Hawaii for our honeymoon, an old lady who sat next to us told us to give 100% in marriage, and expect 90%.

5. Don’t take each other too seriously, give grace and work hard.

6. Time Together – make dates a priority. This is especially important after you’ve had kids! Whether we have a one hour window to get coffee or a working lunch date, or date night at home with the kids in bed early, its really important to ask each other how they’re doing. It’s the LIFEBLOOD of our relationship.

7. Make the bed, haha I try and do this and it really helps. It’s the little things right?

8. Words of encouragement when we were first married, I would put notecards in his briefcase. Now, I’m more likely to send a verse in an email or text to encourage him.

9. Declutter this is hard for me, since I blog I have lots of products coming, going and laying around. One of my goals in 2018 to be better about spring cleaning. This means a lot to my spouse so when I do declutter, I’m loving him. And when I’ve had a nutty day, he gets it and helps me clean up.

10.  When in doubt, do a check- up and read the love verse: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. I Cor 13:4-5

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours! Read more about our engagement and anniversary here and here. What are some ways you have found that work to improve your relationship?

Share in the comments below <3

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