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Style

5 Coffee shops in LA

1 The Boy and the Bear 2. Republik Coffee 3. Intelligentsia 4. Blue Bottle Coffee 5. NEW! Alfreds coffee time (the westside favorite made its way to Pasadena and we’re so happy it did) Have you tried any of these?

Even though we enjoyed one day in Pasadena, California last week, didn’t stop by our old house. Frankly, even driving by is too emotional. There are too many sweet memories in that house like when Levi learned to walk in that very kitchen. But alas, we continue to make memories just in a new place. I’m training myself to see daily “glimmers” in my life, work and home. So instead of seeing triggers, I’m training myself to be aware of slices of the Lord’s goodness and grace (Levi’s smile, the blessing of my work, Reid’s love and dedication, my girls helping making dinner, and my boys mowing the grass) all of these things ignite a heart of gratitude. What do you think, have you tried looking for “glimmers” instead of “triggers”? I’m convinced this is the secret to a content life. What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Friday eve x

Shalice

Outfit info: jeans LEVI’S 501 Skinny // Tank ($15.99!) // Hat // Chanel brooch // Driving Moc’s ROTHYS

Outfit info: Suit jacket LONGCHAMP // pants LONGCHAMP // tank AMAZON // heels AMAZON // bag LONGCHAMP // necklace // hat AMAZON

Linen shorts (wearing a sz 4 in color flax) // Cowl neck pullover // Slides on sale // Earrings // Easy white tunic // Linen Beach Pants //

So many readers asked for the exact links to my partnership on Instagram with Garnet Hill. I love the length of these shorts! I opened up a Q and A, to my Insta followers and here are some of your questions!

Hi Shalice, what is your TULA promo code?

“shalice” for 15% off your order. I wrote a review of the rose glow eye balm here.

Which Equilibria products do you take?

I ordered the subscription for the balance box. I take one gel at breakfast and dinner, and one full dropper at lunchtime. I’m loooooving the sleep I’m getting right now. Truly a gift during these crazy and uncertain times. Read my in depth review HERE!

What are the Golden Goose dupes you like?

How are you guys doing quaranting?

Reid is working from home, I’m cooking a ton, helping kids with their school and we are going on long walks! It has been hard for me to keep up with everything, I’ll admit. But I love having Reid home. I know this too shall end.

Help a girl out, shoes under $100?

Can you share your bronzer and brush from yesterday, it’s gorgeous!

Yes! I used the dark bronzer from Kosas and brush from Hourglass.

What is Dandy Blend?

It’s a coffee alternative I started using when nursing Levi. I make it with hot almond milk and it is yummy!

How do you make your hash brown casserole? Do I thaw the hash browns?

No! Just throw them in the 9×13 pan as a layer, no thawing needed! HERE is the official recipe!

Holy Grail Beauty Product?

Can I pick three? It’s a trio of help for this girl from a killer concealer (in yucca) and bronzer, Mascara, and THIS $24 BLACK TUNIC that is super flattering. I happen to be wearing it as I write.

What’s a good bag I could buy right now, #retailtherapy?!

As always, my shop page is open, 24/7 and you can Shop My Instagrams on my page. Happy Friday!

Just add a Blazer

by Shalice Noel

blazer and similar // jeans under $100! // tank only $10! // flats and similar

Nothing says you mean business like a blazer and I’m loving this oversize version. I love this outfit for meetings and after school activities. Who else keeps a pair of sneakers in their car? I rounded up some favorites blazers below:

This week, I haven’t been going to events but rather running at the park every day with the kiddos, and being intentional. I’m intentionally not booking up my week like weeks past. This allows me to be more present with my kids and meet them where they need to be met with anything they are facing. When I’m stressed from being in 3 hours of traffic, I’m not the best mom I can be. So, saying no to events on the west side and opening my week has been a blessing.

I also went off coffee, can you believe? I won’t lie, I do miss it but I am less jittery and more peaceful this week. My collagen powder just now goes into hot almond milk. Its not amazing, but hey it works and I’m still getting my protein and collagen. Read more of my routine HERE. What about you, how was your week?

So many good graphic tees! Here’s some faves below:

https://rstyle.me/n/de3kdb8gb6

My life is basically in the fast lane all the time. There’s no time to second guess, overthink, or overbuy (hello messy closet, I see you). With a house full of 6 (soon to be 7), we are decluttering to the tune of 5 bags a week to donations. While I feel like that’s not enough, progress is everything. It has also got me thinking about items in my closet that I wear OVER and OVER again. Like these Chloe Susanna Booties I scored on eBay.
I don’t like paying full price, so I utilize sites like eBay, Poshmark, and Rebag. They are great places to check first before you hand over the Amex for the $1300 boots. Trust me on this, do your research. I don’t usually have a ton of time, in between cutting hot dogs, arriving late to swim lessons, remembering to take my prenatal vitamin (or completely forgetting to take my prenatal vitamin)—you get the point. There really aren’t enough hours in the day.
However, I do manage to remember certain keywords to plug in like “Hermes Oran sandal size 40” or “Chloe Susanna Boot” or last week I searched, “New Nike Running shoe girls size 1″ for my daughter. I’ll usually skim the options, and if I don’t see anything, I’ll check again the next day. Consistency usually pays off with me saving money and a package at the door a couple days later. Yay for fast shipping via eBay! (not sponsored;)
So, with all of that said, here are 5 investment buys every girl should own, but always remember you don’t necessarily have to pay full price!
5 Investment Buys for Smart Spending

Chloe Susanna Boots (I also love the Anine Bing version)

Hermes Oran Sandals

Stella McCarney Blazer

Chloe Faye Bag

Alexandre Birman ‘Clarita’ Sandals

Bonus: I love these CHANEL slingbacks and THESE DUPES for a fraction of the price. See my post HERE on how to know you’re buying authentic.

Now, my secret’s out. It’s your turn, where are your favorite places to get used items?

linen dress // sunglasses // bucket bag

 

I’m on a pumpkin bread kick. If baby wants it, baby gets it, right? I found a recipe that is super easy, makes moist bread, and my kids love it. Funny tip, if you want to sleep in tomorrow, make this tonight, cut it up, lay out paper plates and tell your kids to enjoy the pumpkin bread downstairs and give you 30 more minutes of sleep in the morning. It worked for me this morning.  Phew! Note: I like to substitute spelt flour for all purpose flour since it has fiber and protein and no one in my house is gluten free. I’ve been told, this recipe substitutes gluten free flour nicely. How cute is this dress?

Pumpkin Bread adapted from here

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 7×3 inch loaf pans.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water and sugar until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just blended. Pour into the prepared pans.
  3. Bake for about 50 minutes in the preheated oven. Loaves are done when toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Do you like when I share recipes? Do you want to see more? Let me know. Your comment short or long is really helpful as I plan future content!

 

Thank you,

xx

Shalice

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!
 

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

5 Workout Faves

by Shalice Noel

 

sports bra // similar pants // top // similar back pack // his shirt //  tanning towels I’ve been using //

 

I’ve been getting more to the gym not only because summer is coming but its the much needed endorphins I need! I’m loving the results, been taking a little pre-workout for more energy for the afternoon slump and calm gummies for the evening. As for feeling good at the gym, here are 5 workout pieces I’m loving! These sneakers were just marked down to $67, and this bra top is on sale too! We plan to go back to the cabin after a couple events tomorrow. What are you up to?

Happy Weekend!

BRA TOPS – I’m all about a good bra top to change it up. Here are my faves!

ACTIVE TOPS – I love these worn over a good sports bra

PANTS – I’m all about flattering workout pants! They can go from gym to cafe with the right top and bag.

ACCESSORIES – sometimes the right shoes and the right gym bag is the finishing touch

 

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 hobbyHe 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. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 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

I believe some of the greatest things I’ve done have happened when I’ve followed my gut. Reid, the kids, and I visited Lake Arrowhead all but twice and made an offer on a 1970’s A-frame on our second visit. The next day, we were told the sellers accepted the offer and found ourselves in the midst of the home buying process. Living in LA, I was and still am nervous about living an hour and a half away and getting work done on it. While this nearly 1800 square foot beauty was shining in her day, she is clearly worn out now (namely the kitchen) and needs a loving face lift. Our kids are OBSESSED with the woods, this wooden A-frame, the fresh air, the sliver of lake we see from our deck, and I am obsessed with dreams of a pancake breakfasts with my kids while sitting at the bar of my island in my new kitchen. This purchase started with a dream, and continues with a dream. I promise to document the process, the ugly, and hopefully lots of pretty to show you coming up. Who doesn’t love a good before and after picture? I think we have the next couple weekends booked as we go up Friday through Sunday and become weekend warriors. Send all the tips, hugs and painting contractor names our way.

WE BOUGHT A CABIN!!

XO Shalice

Stay tuned to our renovation and comment if you’d like to see more!