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Family

Packing for Chemo: What’s in Our Bag for This Journey

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

As the country awaits the transition to a new president, our family begins day one of four months of chemotherapy. I repeat, day 1!

I’ve packed a bag for this long first day of treatment (see my list below) and would love to hear what helped you get through if you’ve experienced this journey too. A friend is kindly watching our kids while we’re away today. Although we love City of Hope and it is a welcoming place, with a warm supportive staff, there’s a sense of fear and uncertainty as we start this new chapter. The unknown is daunting, but we’re ready to learn together. Reid is starting on “Oxaliplatin” chemo, and while there are many types and doses, we’ll take each step one at a time.

For those asking, Reid’s port installation went smoothly. He’s feeling a bit stiff and says he feels like a robot, turning his head carefully, but it’s a relief to know this port allows for aggressive chemo to help shrink the tumor.

Here’s what’s in my bag for today:

  • Grounding pad – A cancer diagnosis affects the mind in so many ways, and this mat has helped me sleep and feel more centered at night. Ours was a gift from John and Katie Gresko- thank you!
  • Cozy blanket, hat, and gloves
  • Protein powder
  • Essential oils – I love peppermint oil for headaches and de-stressing.
  • Oliveda lip oil – This has been great for the dry hospital air.
  • Chargers for phones and iPads and my red-light “LumeBox”
  • Healthy snacks – Kale chips, Ezekiel bread with grass-fed butter, pistachios, low-sugar gummies, mushroom hot chocolate, and plenty of teas like dandelion and green tea.

If you’ve gone through this, I’d love to hear your tips or items you found helpful. Thank you to everyone who has reached out and prayed for Reid and our family.

Chat soon,

Shalice

Family

A new chapter: chemo

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

I’m learning a whole new language—a language that includes terms like ice gloves, caps, nausea meds, vitamin C infusions, and three days of fatigue.

Reid is beginning a new chapter: Folfox, chemo.

As I was telling my son, who was wondering why God placed him in a class of all girls, I admitted I didn’t know. But I reminded him of Jonah, who tried to hide when God called him to Nineveh. “Did Jonah do what he was called to do?” I asked. “Sometimes, God asks us to do hard things.” Though we’re praying for a friend to join him in his class, I realized this is also a lesson for my own heart: indeed, God sometimes calls us to difficult paths.

I never thought cancer would be part of our story; it was always something I read about in others’ lives.

In the exam room, time seemed to stretch on as the oncologist gave us an overwhelming stream of information. My head started to ache. Later, an older nurse came in with more information about what the treatment would feel like. I immediately liked her. There’s something about older nurses—she was like a sweet grandma in a sterile place. But one scary thought kept surfacing: will Reid’s have another abscess? Also – can Reid’s body handle the intensity and rigor of chemo?

Not forgetting that this is a fashion blog, I distracted myself from the chemo talk by deciding that I need an LV neverfull for my birthday to hold all of Reid’s paperwork. Do you have one and love it? Let me know. My current bag – Midi Demellier was overflowing with hospital folders and water bottles…I digress . . . .

If anyone has tips on supporting a chemo patient with natural supplements, I’d love to hear them! I’m currently researching so Reid can have the best chemo experience possible.

Back to the schedule . . .

On Tuesday, they’ll install the port in his chest, and Wednesday, the first dose begins. It will mean six hours at the hospital and 46 hours total, as he’ll go home with a pump. How will he—or I—sleep without worrying about this pump?

But somehow, I tell myself, we’ll be okay. We’ll take each moment as it comes.

My friend Tracy set up a meal train for our family next week with the new demands of chemo. Thank you to those who have signed up to bless our family. I won’t lie, this diagnosis has been hard to juggle with a big family.

But we have a big community. God knew what we needed.

Until next time.

Shalice

Family

Next steps for Reid’s cancer journey

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

I wanted to keep this brief but share an update following our appointment with the surgeon and radiologist at City of Hope yesterday. We discussed Reid’s diagnosis and treatment plan in detail.

We were grateful that the doctors took the time to answer all our questions and didn’t rush us. They reviewed Reid’s CT scans from his hospital stay in September, showing his 7 cm tumor. I asked why this hadn’t been identified earlier, and while the surgeon acknowledged this was an oversight, we need to focus on moving forward. When he saw me struggling with the news, he told me, “We’re here to cure.” I feel confident that Reid is in good hands.

There was a lot to take in. The radiologist explained the next 8 months—laying out the plan through a thin mask and slight accent, with my mind racing to absorb it all as I jotted questions on scrap paper. Reid will undergo 4 months of chemotherapy, followed by 2 months of radiation, 2 months off, and then surgery. We are hopeful the tumor may even shrink before treatment begins. Prayer warriors, please pray for this—to see the tumor shrink now on its own.

Many have asked what stage is the cancer, the surgeon thought it was stage 3, without seeing the recent CT and MRI scans.

This journey isn’t easy, and I’m learning to accept that. There were moments I felt overwhelmed, yet I found myself planning next steps: new, nourishing recipes for Reid, positive affirmations, and self-care ideas. We’re ready to tackle this together. A friend from school sent me this verse the morning of our appointment, and it’s brought me comfort: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.” (Nahum 1:7)

Thank you for all your love and prayers—your support means everything to us.

xx

Shalice

Family

Reid’s initial diagnosis

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Many of you have asked how we found out about Reid’s diagnosis and what his symptoms were, especially since he’s young, fit, and we maintain a healthy diet. Honestly, it was a shock to us, too.

Before I share our journey, I want to remind everyone to never hesitate to schedule a colonoscopy. You never know what they’ll find, so don’t put it off!

Reid had been dealing with digestion issues for about three years. We often brushed it off, calling it the “Thoma stomach,” something his grandpa suffered with and I gave him extra enzymes to help. He’d occasionally complain about a stomach ache, but we didn’t think much more of it.

This past summer, we decided to join the annual family reunion in Texas to escape the Southern California heat. Maybe wishful thinking. We packed up the car with all our favorite snacks—because let’s be real, snacks are half the fun of a road trip! We had chomps, SmartSweets, sour gummies, licorice, and chips. It was definitely a fun car ride.

We made it to Flagstaff and spent the night at a less-than-5-star hotel, trying to make the most of it. But that night, Reid was in a lot of abdominal pain, worse than usual. He spent most of the night soaking in the hotel’s bathtub—the only thing that seemed to ease the pain in his back and abdomen. That’s when the questions started: Why has this pain been ongoing? Why is it getting worse?

At that point, morale hit rock bottom. The kids’ excitement deflated like a party balloon when we told them we had to turn around. It wasn’t easy giving them that news, especially after driving eight hours. The next morning, I drove us the eight hours back home.

Once back, we started researching and asking around for the best urgent care or ER options. Eventually, we ended up at an urgent care, where they advised us to go straight to the ER at Loma Linda Hospital. We arrived around 1 p.m. and stayed until 4 a.m., when Reid was finally admitted for potential surgery. That was the beginning of a nightmare week.

The doctors were general practitioners, each day bringing a new, negative opinion about his health. It was frustrating because no one could figure out what was going on. Was it diverticulitis? Ulcerative colitis? Crohn’s disease? They kept asking if Reid had a history of Crohn’s, which he didn’t.

Eventually, they performed “exploratory endoscopy” surgery. After seven incisions, they removed his appendix and an unexpected abscess. Later, we found out from pathology that his appendix was clean and didn’t need to be removed. Reid felt much better post-surgery, but we had to wait for the next milestones: gas and a bowel movement. Without those, he couldn’t be discharged. It felt like an eternity, and I wasn’t sure how much longer I could keep up the daily hospital visits from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The kids kept telling me they missed me at home, but they also understood how important it was for me to be there with Reid, advocating for him and pushing the doctors with the hard questions.

Finally, after a long week, we were cleared to go home. I hadn’t felt that kind of relief since we bought our house—it had been a while. It was such a joy to have him back under our roof, where I could make him homemade bone broth instead of the junk food from the hospital.

That first night, all seven of us slept so well, knowing Reid was home. I hope that helps answer some of your questions regarding how could Reid, a healthy 40 something get a bad report from his colonoscopy.

Stay tuned for more updates.

Holding onto our maker.

Shalice

Family

Life Update

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Hi everyone,

This isn’t the blog post I had hoped to write, but I feel it’s important to share. When Reid was hospitalized, I started posting health updates on my Instagram channel. Unfortunately, the platform has been glitchy, and many of you have mentioned that you’re unable to join the channel or access the updates.

Though this is hard for me to write, I wanted to provide this update here, hoping it reaches those of you who’ve been concerned and following Reid’s journey.

On a bright Friday morning, Reid and I drove down to Mission Viejo for what we thought would be a routine colonoscopy. When we arrived, the nurse seemed a bit abrupt, telling us Reid wasn’t “cleaned out” enough for the procedure. Confused and frustrated, I asked for clarification. He had taken the Suprep and drank the water as instructed the night before. But apparently, he was supposed to drink more water. Note to self for next time—at least when I have to face the dreaded colonoscopy.

The nurse popped into the waiting room, advising me not to go far. I assured her I was just planning to grab some groceries two miles away while I waited. “Perfect!” she said. I walked out, headed for the parking garage, and drove to the grocery store. I picked up our usual staples that barely last two days in my house and returned to the parking lot. Sitting in the car, I took a deep breath.

Something in my gut told me the news I’d be getting in the next 20 minutes wouldn’t be good. I can’t explain how I knew—it was a sobering thought. But soon, I was distracted by the beauty around me: the boulevards lined with birds of paradise and the fresh morning air. A nice distraction from the heaviness that was settling in my heart.

I got the call from the surgery center that Reid was out and ready to go. I quickly made my way back. After a few minutes, they called my name. I found Reid in a corner office with our doctor. His usually cheerful face looked grave.

“I don’t have good news for you,” he said.

He explained there was a tumor growing in Reid’s colon, and we’d need a CT scan to see if it had spread. He even showed us pictures of the tumor, explaining that it had blocked the way, preventing them from completing the colonoscopy. Exactly the news I was dreading. Exactly what I didn’t want to hear.

A heavy swarm of emotions hit me—too hard to articulate. Grief hits differently. Even the simplest tasks, like getting directions to a new place this week, felt overwhelming and frustrating. I’ve found myself staring at walls, lost in thought. Grief hits differently.

When we got home, we shared the news with the kids, and we all cried together. I know this isn’t an ending, but the beginning of a long road ahead. Please understand if I take breaks between posting campaigns—bills still need to be paid, especially with hospital expenses. I had already signed two campaigns before we learned about Reid’s condition, so if you see me posting, it’s because I need to keep working. It’s not dissonant—it’s survival. Your support means everything right now. Like, comment, share—every bit helps. We’re in this together, right? And honestly, the distraction of work is welcome as we figure out our next steps.

We love you all. Please be patient with us as we figure this out.

Shalice

“But you oh Lord are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head”

Psalm 3:3

Family

My boys in the Janie and Jack and Gray Malin collection

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Me and the bows are on Janie and Jack’s blog!! How cool right? Read it here

I checked out the blog post about Brooks and Levi modeling the new Janie and Jack Gray Malin collection in the Lacy Park rose garden. The collection definitely exudes resort vibes, with vibrant and playful pieces perfect for a summer getaway.

The collection includes various stylish items such as shirts, linen blend shorts, and swim trunks for boys, alongside dresses and rompers for girls. The combination of Malin’s iconic photography style with Janie and Jack’s classic designs creates a unique and charming line.

One of my favorite pieces from the collection is the Gray Malin Recycled Travel Toile Swim Trunk. It’s not only stylish with its fun and colorful print but also environmentally friendly. Another standout is the striped shorts, which are versatile and perfect for a casual yet polished look.

If you’re interested, you can view the entire collection here

Boy’s shirts // Boy’s shorts // Levi’s slippers

Right now, they have 20% off sale and free shipping!

Family

Toddlers and Teenagers

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Navigating the exhilarating journey of parenthood, Reid and you delved into a captivating discussion, unveiling the nuanced dynamics of raising children at different stages of their development. While reminiscing about the whirlwind days of toddlerhood, with its flurry of diaper changes and playground escapades, we both found ourselves nodding in agreement on one profound realization: parenting teens is a whole new adventure demanding a different set of skills.

As you shared anecdotes and insights, a vivid picture emerged of the unique challenges posed by adolescent years. It’s not just about physical exertion anymore; it’s a mental marathon requiring sharp wit and unwavering patience. From engaging in spirited debates about the relevance of physics in everyday life to gently steering them away from the allure of endless YouTube videos, every interaction becomes an opportunity to ignite their curiosity and shape their understanding of the world.

But amidst the intellectual sparring and negotiations, there’s a poignant beauty in witnessing the evolution of your relationship with your teen. It’s a journey marked by mutual growth, where you’re not just a parent but also a mentor, guiding them through the labyrinth of life’s complexities. And as you gently remind them why borrowing mom and dad’s phone charger without asking is a big no-no, you’re not just imparting rules but instilling values that will shape their character for years to come.

What do you think, do you agree? Do you have teens or toddlers and can relate?

Lmk!

Shalice

Family

Our first week in California

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

We left Georgia on a dark Thursday morning and arrived in SoCal on Monday. It was an intense 3 days of driving and one day of resting with family in Nebraska. What a journey it was! Thankfully we missed hurricane Hillary and drove straight to the house. We’ve been unpacking, waiting for furniture, internet, and having friends over to swim. No complaints here.

I thought it was interesting that the same friends who have been over to swim said that we were the only family they knew who moved away and then returned. To be honest, we like being the forerunners. We are predicting more boomerangs to come.

To those asking about school, before we left, the kids had a slow start to school in Georgia. We will place them back in charter like they were when we left two years ago. I’m praying for a smooth transition back.

I feel like we were blessed to have a second chance coming back to California where we thrived for almost 6 years. 

For those of you wondering why we moved and why so fast, read all about it HERE.

Tomorrow, movers move in our furniture and I’ll be posting a house tour shortly.

Hope you have a lovely weekend. Follow the blog and socials for updates!

xx Shalice

@Shalice Noel

@shopshalicenoel

shalicenoel.com

Family

Our Exciting News

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

While my account was gone, you may have missed this

Remember the old Sandra Bullock movie, While You Were Sleeping?  That’s a bit how I feel right now.  We’ve had a lot of life changing events going on the last two weeks and you might be shocked now that my account is breathing again.  I couldn’t share all this exciting news until now.  Boy, that was a stressful 16 days. Read about it HERE.  Thank you for all the support and community you provided while my account was in jeopardy. 

Here is the backstory to catch you all up.

My last post on @shalicenoel was finding moments to teach your children to find the silver lining in all circumstances.  I was majorly tested on this one.  The day my account was taken down is the same day we signed a lease for a new house.  Yes, a new house!  You might ask, but you just built a house in Georgia?  True and technically it’s still our house.  (Let me know if you are looking for a house in Georgia). Reid and I loved the design process of the new build in Georgia, but our work has always been in California.  Namely, Reid has been working remote, traveling back and forth and our clothing label Shalice Noel, needs to be based in LA again.  As you might remember, we almost moved back to California fall of 2022, but our kids were not on board, and our housing search ended up flat. So, Reid and I held back on the move. Meanwhile, we made some dear friendships in Georgia that we will miss greatly!

Read more about that decision HERE.

To our surprise, the kids’ hearts began to change.  The girls and I had made a trip to LA last spring, and we all realized it felt like home to us.  We can’t explain it.  Memories flooded back of me being pregnant with Levi walking the streets of Old Town Pasadena and the girl’s excitement over our favorite restaurants, beaches and shops was thrilling to hear.  It was at that time that we decided that LA was home.

As you can imagine, the search for a place for a family of 7 + dog is quite the feat. Read, “IMPOSSIBLE.” We never stopped looking for a house in the Pasadena area and dreamed of getting our old house back. It almost took a year, but we finally found a house and we can’t wait to show you. We’re praising God for opening doors, literally. While I was away for 2 years, I missed my “team,” aka Felicia my photographer and Morgan, my make-up artist who I was never able to replace. I am thrilled to be back with artist who inspire me, close to work, business partners, and areas to shoot. I don’t think I can communicate enough how excited we all are and what’s to come.

I guess you can say, this is the part of While You Were Sleeping when Peter wakes up engaged. Next week I’ll be back to posting our California lifestyle.  Hello, culture shock!  Rural north Atlanta is a whole different culture to Los Angeles, but I think we will jump back into the rapids just fine.

We appreciate your love and support!! I’ve missed you all so much.  We look forward to being back in our old stomping grounds.

In the meantime, subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss out on anything. Follow my back up account @ shopshalicenoel and check here for any updates.

Who wants a house tour when we arrive?

Family

POV: my experience with poison ivy

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Some of you know that last week, we unknowingly burned poison ivy in our fire pit. We inhaled the smoke and within 24 hours my face swelled to double its size. I could barely see through my right eye. My three children also showed signs of a severe allergy but thankfully not as bad as my reaction. It was scary. I’m sharing this to caution you to first inspect the wood that you use before you use it. My kids usually love to throw sticks and vines into the fire. Unfortunately, one of those vines was poison ivy! I’m sad because our fire pit times was one of family bonding and laughter.

I didn’t want to take the steroid shot due to awful side effects, so I treated it naturally. I know some do not have that choice especially if your throat swells too (pharyngitis). I treated it with homeopathic, and drank lots of liquids. Topically, I used Zanfel, Tecnu, baking soda and fresh aloe from our little plant. If you have it currently, I encourage you to seek your health practitioners advice. It’s not something to mess around with.

As I write, I’m on day 7, and thankfully feeling and looking more like myself. My face is peeling and very dry, but I’m thankful that me and my kids are on the road to recovery and way better than we were a couple days ago. Progress! However, we are itching like crazy still on our stomachs, arms and legs. I read that you have a severe case if your skin feels like leather, and ours does.

Have you or someone that you knew experienced an allergic reaction to poison ivy? I’m feeling brave so I’m sharing my before and after picture below. I’d love to hear from you in the comments.

xx

Shalice

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