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Family

Scootering around Silverlake

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

my skirt / zara turtleneck similar / dolce vita booties similar / sunglasses

his shorts / star wars helmet / scooter

One of our favorite things to do on the weekends is explore new neighborhoods and scooter around. While Reid and I look for coffee, the kids compete who can scooter the fastest and they usually find a lizard or two to slow them down. Luckily, our 4 scooters fit nicely in our SUV so we can take them out whenever convenient, like here in Silverlake. We had just left Whole Foods getting food and flowers and burning off some of those cookies from dessert was a main priority if we were going to have a semi-peaceful afternoon. Mission accomplished with these cute and practical scooters. My kids never don’t want to scooter and I’m thankful for that!

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

Thank you Micro Kickboard for sponsoring this post!

Family

Carlsbad: Our Family Weekend Away

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

As you might have seen on Instagram, we spent last weekend with a quick weekend getaway to Carlsbad, Ca (which is a town on the coast of San Diego). The last time we were in Carlsbad was to visit my brother over 8 years ago, so it was good to get back! As Reid and I looked back at that trip, our oldest was a just couple months old and that’s definitely when the California Dream bug bit us. The beautiful seaside town, manicured streets, friendly people and, of course, the weather all had us dreaming….I wish we could live here. It was all so attractive.

Humorously, I remember nudging Reid to look for a job nearby – a reason to escape Chicago winters. Funny how the events played out. It would be 8 years later and and now here we are, bringing 4 kids to Carlsbad, for a weekend getaway, from our home in LA.

Yes it was dreamy going back to this place, and yes ,I’m feeling very blessed we got to do so. Honestly, our kids liked Carlsbad better than LA! What’s not to like for kids?! From Legoland, Carlsbad downtown, the Carlsbad Lagoon and stunning bike paths along the coast, it’s a happy and pretty place to be. There was actually more to see and do than we had time for, but we did our very best. We even allowed for one whole day at the pool.

Here is a short list of highlights. Keep in mind, we did all this in a long weekend and so can you!

Omni Hotel and Resort – where we stayed all weekend

Shopping at Omni Hotel and Resort – Lilly Pulitzer, Audrey’s, Livewell, The Spa

Friday 

Arrive at Omni La Costa – get a tour and get settled in our room

Marketplace at Omni La Costa for a grab-n-go lunch

Legoland This awesome theme park has MANY attractions but our kids favorite was getting their driver’s license, driving a boat and seeing the mini Lego town was their favorites. We were there from 12-5pm!

Campire Restaurant cozy surroundings, family friendly and a modern take on American fare. Try the s’mores over the fire for dessert, yum!

Saturday 

Breakfast at Bistro 65 an omelet with breathtaking golf course views

Watersports at Carlsbad Lagoon

Lunch at kid-friendly open air Pizza Port for yummy pizza, salads and brews.

Pool time at Omni La Costa

Dinner at Park101 Awesomely family friendly, plaza style and something for everyone. We went there for dinner and breakfast. Bonus, if you’re a Husker fan (we got a round of beers on the house) and such yummy pulled pork!

Sunday

Breakfast at Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery

PEDAGO – rent bikes and ride along the Carlsbad coast!

Lunch at Señor Grubby’s for local craft beers and tacos al pastor. After all that biking, we had a huge appetite!

Shopping downtown – little boutiques like Wysh Boutique where I picked up a cute ivory sweater. I love shopping local.

The Goods Coffee shop (Instagram friendly with all white) and yummy donuts.

Phew! While it was sad to leave Carlsbad, we are grateful for the memories we made! Please ask any questions below.

Check this out too! Kids can enter the Mini Mayor of Carlsbad prize – more info here. The prize is a weekend away package for a family of 4! The kids take over City Hall in this kid-friendly town!

Thank you for Visit Carlsbad for sponsoring our unforgettable weekend 

FamilyHalloweenOutfitsStyle

Halloween 2017: Lifeguards

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

On a long ride to the country, we asked the kids who they think we should dress up as for Halloween. We usually like to keep things streamlined within the family. First option was Pocahontas, next was lifeguards. Not a huge surprise coming from our 7 year old who was helped by a lifeguard in Laguna Beach a couple months ago when she hit a rock underwater and gashed her chin. Long story short, she got 5 stitches and we had a solid 2.5 hour drive home. Maybe it was the first responders on the beach that convinced her we should honor them by dressing up as them, who knows. But I do know I love this hunk of lifeguard (who actually was a lifeguard in his teens!) and these flesh-eating, candy-loving cuddly sharks more than life itself. So much so that I didn’t even mind having an audience when we shot this at the Omni Hotel La Costa. Who cares when you’re having fun right? Lifeguards it is!

What will you be for Halloween? See our last years looks HERE!

Get the lifeguard look here:

my suit (runs small) :: shorts :: hubby’s tank :: shark costume and shark hat :: the girls suits Marysia Swim

photography Felicia Lasala

Taken on location at Omni Hotel La Costa, Carlsbad, CA 

Family

5 Reasons Why I Love Scooters

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

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!

Fall FashionFamilyHealthOutfitsStyle

How to Get Your Family to Drink More H20

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

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?

CollaborationsFamilyNordstrom

Tucker x Tate Nordstrom

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel


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 

 

FamilyOutfitsStyle

What to Wear Labor Day Weekend

by Shalice Noel
written by Shalice Noel

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

 

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 :: 
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!

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