Category:

Family

jumpsuit// belt // boots // star wars helmet

Last week, we scootered around the historic Mission District and found so many beautiful historic buildings to learn about and scooter around. It was founded in 1771, and the fourth of California’s 21 missions. We scootered around the fountain and to the plaques to learn more. The kids didn’t get tired but are always easily entertained by scooters and a pack of gum in their pocket. Ha! I’m sharing a short list below of why we LOVE our scooters:

 

Top 5 Reasons Why We Love Our Scooters

  1. Great Exercise. Scooters get kids moving! When are kids are tempted to spend hours on devices such as iPads and laptops, it’s important to give them a fun alternative to sitting, scootering!
  2. They travel well. The micro sprite folds for easy travel. Just push and hold in the 2 buttons on either side of the front wheel and unfold your scooter. Also, think about using them on vacation to explore a new town. Bonus: the kids get less tired than walking. Pro tip: bring them when you trick or treat to keep the kids from getting easily tired walking.
  3. I get a workout. These 4 scooters fit in our SUV and if I want a workout, I wear my running shoes and try and catch up to them on their scooters. It’s harder than you think!
  4. They are great for almost every age. The maxi deluxe is great for ages 5-12 (what my kids have) and the micro sprite is great for ages 8-99! I have the micro white and can more easily catch up to them at the park. Either way, it’s a great workout.
  5. They make great gifts! Christmas is 70 days away, use my code“SHALICE” to get or give a free scooter light (and free shipping) to a niece, nephew, son or daughter.

Where will your scooters take you? See where we took our scooters in Venice HERE and see the health benefits of scooters HERE.

Don’t forget:Use Code “SHALICE” for a free scooter light and free shipping.

Ends 10/31.

Thank you Micro Kickboard for sponsoring this post!

overalls // similar // heels // top similar // bottles from 1907water

How to Get Your Family to Drink More Water

We’re a fairly healthy family – both my husband and I prioritize exercise, eating well, and spending enough time outside, and it’s something we constantly try to instill in our little ones. I think it’s incredibly important to teach children the value of a healthy body and mind, so we do our best to set that example.

 

One healthy habit we’re always trying to improve though? Water consumption.  

 

Especially lately as I’ve been reading endless articles with enough water being the answer to so many ailments and issues. Not only is it helpful for digestion and overall body function, but it helps with energy, skin, mood, pretty much everything. It’s simply hard to feel great when you’re dehydrated.

 

To get us and the kids on a 8-glass-a-day habit (or bottles in our case), we bought the entire family their own water bottles. This is not only eco-friendly (no more plastic bottles throughout the day), but it makes it kinda fun. We all try to drink a bottle before school, and then I’m working on getting the kids in a habit of filling up during the day. We drink another when they get home from school and so on.

 

The kids like having their own special water bottle, and making it a game of sorts has gotten them to drink more. I personally try to drink a huge glass or one bottle right when I get out of bed in the morning. It’s helpful to wake the metabolism up and get things moving.

 

To avoid accidents with the kids at night, we usually cut off the water bottle game by about 6 p.m.

 

Since focusing more on drinking enough water, I’ve honestly felt a difference already. Especially in my skin and energy levels. The kids are feeling good, too. And such an easy change, right?

 

Are you a good water drinker? What about your kids? How do you make sure you’re drinking enough?


Tucker & Tate Clothes

While the idea of shopping for four kids sounds fun in theory – and it can be – it’s also a lot of work. There aren’t a lot of stores or brands that carry something that’s comfortable, can withhold busy kids, and that aren’t cheesy. For how young my kids are, they really do love picking out their clothes, so I want them to like what they’re wearing as well.

 

Nordstrom is always a one-stop shop for our family when shopping. I get a ton of my clothes there, in store or online – the inventory is excellent either way, and we can shop for the kids at the same time. Their return policy is like any other, so in case a kid grows out of something before they can even wear it, it’s simple to take back. The kids and I like going in store to pick out their clothes, especially before the new school year or holidays.

 

A Nordstrom brand we turn to often is Tucker & Tate. My girls love that they carry colorful, floral skirts and dresses, booties that “look like mom’s”, and the boys dig the beanies and cool shirts. Honestly, some of the stuff is so cute I’d wear it myself! If you’re doing any early fall shopping for the kids, I highly recommend checking out Tucker & Tate. I think your kids will be happy, too!

 

Thank you Nordstrom for sponsoring this post!

tucker and tate dress NORDSTROM:: knit leggings NORDSTROM :: booties SIMILAR 

boys hats NORDSTROM :: boys thermal t-shirts NORDSTROM :: boys sneakers  :: similar shorts

My Outfit

 similar jeans :: similar shirt :: booties :: LA bag 

 

 

One of the things I appreciate most about my kids is their unique creativity. They each have their own traits, personality, and likes, and it’s been cool watching that evolve as they get older. Especially as the younger ones come out of their shell and have their own voice and style that’s different from their bigger brother or sister. Super cute!

 

So when I let them pick out their own SoYoung Inc. lunch boxes, it was a fun experiment to see them each choose a design. They were very excited to have their own, and that they weren’t all matching (which tends to happen when you’re buying multiples of something).

 

And as a mom who is constantly cleaning up after them (why are boys sooo messy?!), I love that these are raw linen and machine washable. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, so we’ve welcomed them with open arms in our house. No more brown bags for us.

 

I actually have my own, too, since they make adult versions. Great for when I’m working or on the go. Aren’t they cool? Officially bringing back the lunch boxes, but in a modern, way cooler way. If you’re curious to try a bag, use code “Shalice15%” to get 15% off your purchase!

Thank you SoYoung for sponsoring this post!

sweatshirt dress :: silk trench :: sunnies :: boots

 

 

It’s funny how events come at perfectly unpredictable times.  Reid and I recently had the opportunity to take surf lessons at Manhattan Beach.  This was perfect.  Reid’s birthday was just around the corner and as a land locked kid growing up in Nebraska, Baywatch episodes conjured up dreams of hitting the surf.  Look at us now, living the California lifestyle we literally dreamed about as kids.

 

With 10 years of marriage under our sheets 😉 I want to express the importance of doing things with your mate that they enjoy.  It’s a simple concept really.  Something we teach our kids every day.  You do what your mate enjoys and they’ll do what you enjoy.  It really does keep the spark ignited!

Surfing was an opportune moment to share something with Reid that he has always wanted to do.  I on the other hand, was dreading ruining my recent blow out.  However, I sucked it up and gave it my all.

 

Honest to say, this day was the first day I ever stepped into the Pacific Ocean.  Reid and I learned something new together, shared in our vulnerability, expressed a little friendly competition and most of all showed each other that we are in love and a good team.  Even though I’ve never intended to learn how to surf, I relish in the memories this day made in the story of our marriage.

 

What does your mate enjoy doing?

 

wrap similar // heels // jeans

What are you up to this weekend? We are shooting our halloween looks, getting boba tea, a Saturday soccer game and let’s just hope we make it on time to all of it. I love to savor family time together and I hope you do as well. Happy Weekend 😉

Leaving you with one of my favorite quotes: “There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.” – Jill Churchill

5 things to get at the SHOPBOP sale under $100

jeans only $88 / softest t shirt / polka dot dress / rose trench coat / floral top  ps. these red suede boots are back in stock!

 

Happy Shopping!

This photo was taken before they realized their chocolate doughnut had creme in it. Eww.

I’m so excited to share that I’ve partnered with Micro Kickboard and offering a free scooter light and Free Shipping with code “ SHALICE” shop them HERE. This offer expires 10/31. Scooters make great gifts!

How do we use our scooters – I even have one!

We use them for park days, me running beside them, walking around china town, and bonus, they fit in our SUV, all 4 of them!

We’ve had so many good memories on them already. If you’re a mom or maybe an aunt or uncle, these make GREAT  gifts that keep on giving and keep kids healthy and moving. In an iPad society where everything is digital and kids are easily addicted to devices, getting kids out to play and moving is essential to their health and wellbeing. Some benefits include:

Muscle Strength

Cardiovascular Capacity

Keeps Bones Strong

Decreases Body Fat

Maintains a Healthy Weight

Enhances Self Esteem

Reduces Symptoms of depression & Anxiety

And the list goes on!

Where will your scooters take you? See where we took our scooters in Venice HERE. And don’t forget:

Use Code “SHALICE” for a free scooter light and free shipping 😉 Ends 10/31.

Thank you Micro Kickboard for sponsoring this post!

With Labor Day weekend fast approaching, here’s a simple what to wear guide. For starters, I would start with a bold bodysuit, flare jeans, statement earrings, and nude heels. I have a busy weekend planned (as it is also hubby’s birthday and friends are coming into town) so staying up late outfit planning is out of the question. If you follow these simple steps, your outfit should look balanced, comfy and chic whether you’re planning a low-key BBQ, day at the lake or cross-country adventure. As for us, we’re renting a place by Newport Beach and we can’t wait to show you. In the meantime, here are some statement earrings, bodysuits and flare jeans hand-picked by moi. As a reminder, my shop page is always open 24/7.

What are some tops under $50?

What kind of bodysuit do I wear you ask? Here are some of my faves for every budget.

FYI The one I’m wearing is under $100.

Flare jeans are back with a vengeance.

Anyone else super stoked they kept their high school 7FAM jeans? I surely am. 

Statement earrings are so hot this season, I couldn’t help but dive into this trend.

Tip: wear your hair up in a messy bun, skip the necklace and wear BIG earrings. It makes any plain white tee shine.

What I’m Wearing

my bodysuit  :: jeans old Black Orchid similar here :: heels :: his jeans DSTLD :: use code SHALICE for 10% off :: shot in Manhattan Beach by Felicia Lasala

 

The Targetstyle team recently asked me a couple questions about their new Cat & Jack line for back to school. Read on!

Which of the latest kids’ back-to-school- clothing trends at Target caught your eye the most, and why?

Three trends that especially caught my eye were distressed details, patches and metallics.  I’m especially a fan of the distressed style which is no secret.  Plus, the kids quickly put holes in their jeans from wear and tear so its one less thing to worry about! Thankfully, the kids were wild about the patches and metallics.
What are some of the top factors you consider when picking out your back-to-school clothing for your kid?
 
Picking out clothes for back to school season can be overwhelming.  What I look for are clothes that are comfortable and yet stylish so they will happily wear and express their unique personalities. I love the stripe tee with the lightening bolt since it will go with so many outfits. For the sake of my laundry, I appreciate clothing options that mix well with anything in their closet.  I prefer nothing matchy – matchy and how they style themselves can be so entertaining.  When your running out the door, you just have to go with it.   
Walk us through the selects you chose – what inspired you to select those options and how did you choose to style them?
My oldest daughter loves anything with glitter, so the metallic options were perfect for her.  The metallic backpack, star pattern skirt with stripe shirt will be her go-to items throughout the school year.  The second oldest is a bit more difficult.  She likes anything sporty.  Her first select was the brightly colored bomber jacket.  With that we chose more neutral denim with classic velvet sneakers.  Our son was giddy with the super hero choices, and was quickly showing off his high-top wings.  His look was one of my favorites. I mean, what’s not to like about a comic book patch sweatshirt and rocket ship shirt?

Any more questions we missed? Comment below! I’m excited to announce we’re also featured on Target’s blog, answering some questions about the collection and what my kids liked from it.

Read more on the Target blog HERE

striped shirt / star skirt  / bomber jacket/ metallic backpack / patched denim jeans / high tops / boys scuba jacket / rocket ship shirt / all TARGET

Since cookies have fueled progress, innovation, and overall societal happiness since the early 1900’s, it only seems apt that today’s Foodie Friday is about this ubiquitous dessert. And since cookies should be enjoyed by one and all, I’m including a GF option. You’re welcome.

COWBOY COOKIES*
This cookie is unbeatable and unstoppable. No matter how many chocolate chip cookie recipes I’ve tried, this is the one everybody always begs for. They taste like dough, with a little crisp on the outside. Ambrosia, guys, ambrosia. But don’t overcook these! They are best only just cooked and cooled, after you’ve tried them warm just make sure they’re okay. You know, quality control. My dad who likes these crispy, but I think there’s something wrong with his taste buds.
1 c sugar
1 c brown sugar
1 c shortening
2 eggs
1 t vanilla
2 c flour
1 t baking soda
1/2 t baking powder
1/2 t salt
2 c quick oats
1 1/2 c chocolate chips
Turn on your oven to 350.
Mix the sugars and the shortening in your stand mixer (or by hand). Let it mix until it’s nice and light. Add the eggs and vanilla and mix to combine. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt all at once and mix until combined. Lastly, add your oats and chocolate chips.
Bake for 8 min, or until lightly brown on the edges and top just cooked.
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE OATMEAL CHUNKERS
These are amazing and super simple. The only thing you have to remember is to freeze them for 20 min on the sheet pan before cooking or you’ll get flat cookies. However, if you make a batch and freeze the dough balls so that you can eat them every day instead of only once a month (this is the winner option, right?), you can skip this part and they can head straight for the oven.
3/4 c coconut oil or unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), softened
1 3/4 c sucanat or cane sugar
2 large eggs
1 c  (110 g) gluten-free oat flour
1/2 + 2 T (70 g) natural cocoa powder
1/2 t baking soda
1/2 t sea salt
2 c gluten-free rolled oats (not quick!)
1 1/4 c bittersweet chocolate chips or chunks (chopped from a bar)
Preheat oven to 350. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment.
Melt coconut oil if using, and poor oil or softened butter into bowl of a standing mixer with the paddle attachment and add sugar. Mix on medium-low speed until incorporated, about 2 minutes. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add the eggs and mix on low speed; scrape down the bowl again. Increase the mixer speed to medium and mix together until creamy and homogenous, 4-5 minutes.
In a small bowl, sift together the oat flour, cocoa, and baking soda. With the mixer on low, slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Add the salt, oats and chocolate; mix just until combined.
Using a small ice-cream scoop or cookie scoop, measure heaping tablespoon-sized balls of dough and transfer them to the lined baking sheets. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 20 min (or if it’s easier, 30 min in the fridge).
Unwrap cookies and bake for 14-16 minutes. Cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
*Adapted from Sugar Rush / Tee Vintage :: Denim Shorts :: Similar ::