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Family

Back to SchoolFamilyStyle

Back to School with Target, A Bullseye View

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

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

FamilyFoodFoodie FridayWeekend

FOODIE FRIDAY: Cowboy Cookies

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

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 :: 
FamilyFashionworkout

How to Workout with Kids plus a Video

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Many people ask me about my fitness routine and diet.  The truth is, I really don’t have a routine at all.  With four kids at home during the summer, my workout is keeping up with their high energy and high impact youthfulness.  I call my fitness more organic than routine.

Here I’m showing a recent trip to our favorite park.  Getting the kids’ shoes on and them out the door is my typical warm up.  My fashion minded self always slaps on some lipstick too before grabbing my keys.  However, this park day had a new focus for me.  I grabbed a jump rope and resistance bands with the intention of getting a workout in while the kids played on the playground. Well, I did get some jump roping in, but the kids were more interested in what I was doing rather than playing on the equipment.  In the end we all worked out together; they burned energy while I burned calories. I’d say that’s a win-win.

Here are some benefits to jump rope:

Great Cardio

Great for cognitive and physical health

A jump rope fits in my purse.

It’s something you get better at with practice

The kids totally want to participate too

Recommendations before jump roping:

Go to the bathroom before you get started

Wear this type of sports bra

Here is a great jump rope

Here are some benefits to resistance bands:

 Builds strength and tones muscle

Variations of movement = full body workout

They also fit in your purse

They may be used as a slingshot

Here is a link to some resistance bands

Here’s what I’m wearing NOKAOI

See more on my DIET  and more WORKOUTS to do with your kids.

I hope our video inspires you to dream up opportunities for an organic workout with the family.  Life with kids is a discipline of endurance.  Take advantage of their youthful energy and get yourself fit.

XO

Shalice

FamilyNordstromOutfitsStyle

Public Access: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

shorts (sold out) SIMILAR :: sweatshirt SIMILAR :: muscle tank :: chuck taylors similar :: tweed baseball cap :: cardigan SIMILAR ::

Today is the first day of public access for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. What that means is you don’t have to be a card holder to shop the sale, yay! Don’t worry, there are still really good items up for grabs but I wouldn’t delay if you have your eye on something to get your desired size. You can still get points if you’re a rewards member. I just include my phone number to still gain points without using my Nordstrom Credit Card. For instance, hubby just asked me to add this to my cart (because I can’t resist him in a henley), glow-in-the-dark pajamas for the kids, and I fell for these, one can’t have enough pj’s right? Shop my faves and raves below — still in stock at least for now! See another on sale look HERE.

XO Shalice

CollaborationsFamilyFashion

Micro Scootering in Venice

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

We like nothing better as a family than scootering to the park, tea, ice cream or just about anywhere. It’s always a race to get anywhere and Reid and I are often left in the dust. Thankfully, I just joined the squad with my very own white Micro-Scooter. The kids actually love that I can finally keep up with them on our way to ice cream or the park.

On the 4th of July morning, our scooter outing took us down to one of our favorite LA streets, Abbot Kinney where we grabbed some ice cream at Salt and Straw.  We timed it perfect getting there right when they opened and didn’t have to wait in line.  It was early enough that the sidewalks weren’t too crowded.  We kept the speed down and found an open area where we could run in circles for awhile.  It just so happened to be where one of my favorite LA walls are too!

Spending time as a family made the 4th of July Holiday all the more special.  Keeping the celebration simple was key to a successful day with four kids.  They really don’t need much.  Just us, scooting along side of them.

 Tips for Scootering:

Wear Helmets on your heads

Sneakers on your feet – not sandals

Our first lesson with our 4 year old was how to break, it’s an important one!

Don’t forget to watch the video below and see one of my fave family posts HERE

Thank you Micro Kickboard for sponsoring this post!

my scooter MICRO WHITE :: kids scooters MAXI SCOOTER (ages 5-12)

 

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

 

 

 

Thank you Micro-Scooter for sponsoring this post!

FamilyFashionOutfitsStyle

Day in the Life: 3 Favorite Meals

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

top FREE PRESS :: white sweater REBECCA MINKOFF :: jeans AG JEANS :: soft slippers STEVE MADDEN :: Photo’s by Tiffany Luong Photography

Our days usually are never alike but usually begin like this . . . .

pancake breakfast, play time, lunch time, park time, dinner time, and family reading and walk to get boba tea.

Tiffany Luong offered to document our day. Being a large family of 6, I thought the idea intriguing. When I saw the end product I was grateful to see angles and perspectives I would have never seen if it wasn’t for Tiffany  who captured such a raw and organic side of our family life. Including my boy’s messy room, ha. From eating donuts, little laughs and hugs, to wrestling on the floor, she captured it all. She also offers photo books to further document your day for years to come. I was grateful for the opportunity since I most likely will forget the little things I love most about family life documented right here. Learn more about her services for your next family shoot HERE. And since it is Foodie Friday, I thought I’d share 3 kid approved meals we love and use daily. Happy Friday friends!

 

For the first recipe, I’m sharing our favorite breakfast dish, originally published HERE

AMY’S PUFFED PANCAKE

What I love about this one is that it’s something you can prep the night before, then just toss it in the oven in the morning and bask in the rave reviews.

What You’ll Need:

6 Eggs

1 C Flour (If you’re gluten free, I’d chose a flour blend that has already done the math on which GF flours combine to imitate the fluffy texture you get with wheat flour. I’m a fan of King Arthur, but comment if you have another favorite)

1 C Milk (can use almond milk)

1t Salt

1T Butter (to grease the dishes)

Toppings of your choice – we like agave, maple syrup, lemon curd, or powdered sugar

How You’ll Do It:

1 Whisk the eggs, flour, milk, and salt together. If you’re prepping this the night before, cover your bowl and put it in the fridge until you’re read to bake.

2  Preheat the oven to 425°

3  Melt the butter in two 9×13 pans

4  Pour the mix into the pan and put it in the oven for 15-20 minutes. It will puff up and create some crazy wavy textures in the oven, then it will settle and flatten out once it cools. So if it looks a little wild, you’re doing it right.

5  Serve with your favorite topping and enjoy the satisfied faces.

HOMEMADE HUMMUS eat with carrots or pita bread

2 cups drained well-cooked or canned chickpeas, liquid reserved

1/2 cup tahini (sesame paste), optional, with some of its oil

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus oil for drizzling

2 cloves garlic, peeled, or to taste

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon ground cumin or paprika, or to taste, plus a sprinkling for garnish

Juice of 1 lemon, plus more as needed

Chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish

3 INGREDIENT DINNER

2 Cans vegetarian chili

1 package of hashbrowns in the shape of a rounded off rectangle

1 Package of cheese

Spread the hash browns across a 9×13 inch pan, layer chili and then cheese. Heat the over to 350 degrees and cook for 15 minutes. Enjoy!

FamilyTravel

ROADTRIP LA to CHICAGO

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

 


 


 

phoebe distressed AG JEANS :: jacket LINEA PELLE :: tank LUSH similar :: heels Coconuts by MATISSE :: bag REBECCA MINKOFF ::

 

We set out on a sunny Friday morning which happened to also be National Donut day, for the city of Chicago. We allotted 4 days of travel via a large 2017 Suburban thanks to Budget, that we picked up the night before, along with donuts. The vehicle was perfect for our long journey of 2700 miles with stops in La Verkin, Utah, Vail, CO, Omaha, NE, Cedar Rapids, IA, and finally Chicago, IL. While as a party of six, as you can imagine there was a lot of “are we there yet?” and when can we dig into the candy kinds of questions. Beyond that, there was a lot of eye spying games and ooh’s and ahh’s once we got to Utah and were in awe of the rocks and mountains. It was great to be able to stop when we saw a scenic overlook or an old gas station or whatever of interest. I remember driving with Reid when we were dating from Chicago to Omaha and barely stopping once. Now, with children, they force you to stay flexible, go with the flow and savor this time that I hope they never forget. While we LOVED the long car trip, we all agreed flying home with American Airlines was the way to go. Four hours of flying versus four days, was a huge difference! Read on below for some travel tips answering some of my most asked questions.

Tips for Travel:

Where to Stay when visiting ZION NATIONAL PARK?

I got asked this a ton when we drove through Zion National Park. Stay in Springdale if you want to catch the ZION national park hikes and trails right out your front door. Such an artsy and pedestrian friendly little town (La Quinta had a great pool ). We made the rookie mistake of staying in La Verkin instead of Springdale which is closer to the park and has a free bus service that takes you to the ZION entrance. Read more Here.

Bring protein snacks and water everywhere! The desert literally had zero watering holes nearby. Be prepared.

Get organized. We had all the kids clothes in Ziploc bags. Each bag contained 1 full outfit (shirt and shorts or dress) and 1 pair of socks and underwear.

Don’t let kids pack their backpacks it sounds good but edit, edit! You’ll thank me when you’re on your second hike and they’re complaining how heavy their backpack is.

Don’t forget the baby wipes! I use them for everything from ice cream mustaches to cleaning the dashboard.

Make frequent stops at the scenic overlooks. The theme of your trip (if you’re traveling as a family) is SLOW and SAVOR. Even though it seems counter intuitive and oh-so hard, don’t rush what could be the most unforgettable memory. Truly.

 

girls romper Saks Fifth Avenue // girls white cold shoulder dress Target // girls maxi dress Target // my Jacket AG JEANS 

bedroom credits //

nightstands Urban Outfitters // linen sheets West Elm // clothing rack IKEA // grommet tee Nordstrom // ivory sofa Interior Define //jute rug West Elm

CollaborationsFamilyStyle

Beach Day with Abercrombie & Fitch

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel



my jeans :: my gingham top :: cashmere cardigan :: her top :: shorts   :: his top similar  and shorts similar

I partnered with Abercrombie & Fitch sharing some of our summer favorites. On this particular morning, the beach was unusually cold, so layers were appreciated. My 7 year-old kept stealing my cashmere cardigan as we approached the aquarium at the end of the pier. It was worth the chilly walk up! The kids loved seeing small sharks, starfish to pet and slippery eels. In a strange way, the walk to the pier and fresh ocean air always seems to give us an appetite for ice cream at Manhattan Beach Creamery. I don’t fret too much when the kids spill all over their shirts. Everything from A & F has been washable and durable, two aspects I love about A & F kids clothes not to mention, they are right on trend. How cute the the shoulder ruffle on her top? I want one in my size so we can be twins. Meanwhile, I’m staying cozy with this cashmere cardi and lightwash jeans that surprisingly go with everything. Which are your favorites?

More Faves from A & F:

Thank you Abercrombie & Fitch for sponsoring this post!

FamilyOutfitsStyleworkout

5 Workouts to Do with your Kids

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Whether we are hiking Runyon Canyon or walking around Studio City, we all can agree it helps to have a buddy. If you have kids or nieces and nephews, ask them to workout with you! If you’re new to this, here are some suggestions. 
Here are 5 at home or at the park workouts that pump you up and your kids:
Jump Rope
Red light / green light
Burpies
Monkey Bars
Jumping Jacks
Note: Combining regular physical activity with a healthy diet is the key to a healthy lifestyle. And keep in mind, your children will most likely eat what you eat.
Comment below with your tips and tricks!

leggings c/o SWEATY BETTY :: my black tank UNDER ARMOR :: her black tee similar

FamilyStyle

Some thoughts on Mother’s Day

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

Motherhood for me is a series of mistakes and triumphs, lessons and growth. All the while giving myself and my kids grace! It is indeed the steepest learning curve and the greatest blessing. For example, it may sound silly, but there was a time I was upset I couldn’t attend golden hour photo shoots, the timing didn’t work with my kids or their schedules (hello witching hours!) However, I was able to step back, accept my responsibilities at home only to realize THESE are the golden hours!! Being present with my family, and loving the gifts my Heavenly Father gave me provided the greatest contentment.

One of my favorite quotes:

“Blessings, like children, are not ethereal and weightless. Sometimes they feel like they come at you like a Kansas hail storm – they might leave a welt! But if you accept your lot, and rejoice in your toil, God will give you the kind of overwhelming joy that cannot remember the details. Motherhood is hard work. It is repetitive and often times menial. Accept it. Rejoice in it. This is your toil. Right here.  Those are their faces. Enjoy them. The days of your life are supposed to be full of things like this. But joy is not giddy. It is not an emotional rush — it is what happens when you accept your lot and rejoice in your toil. So rejoice in your children. Look them in the eyes and give thanks. You will not even remember the work of all this planting when the harvest of joy overwhelms you.”

from LOVING THE LITTLE YEARS – Rachel Jankovic

 

My skirt ZARA similar :: tank Hanes similar :: maxi coverup O’NEILL similar :: sandals FRYE  ::

ruffle white dress TULEROSA :: wedges FRYE 

hubby shirt LACOSTE :: jeans BUCK MASON :: shoes REEF  ::

Girls shirts LACOSTE :: sneakers LACOSTE :: shorts NORDSTROM ::

Boy’s shirts LACOSTE :: shorts NORDSTROM :: shoes LACOSTE

 

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