Nordstrom Anniversary Sale | Personal Purchases & Wishlist

Shop the look:

Suede moto jacket (on sale): Nordstrom | Jumpsuit: Zappos (on sale) | Sneakers: Prada (similar here on sale) | Bag: Madewell

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is quickly approaching its end (August 6) and prices will return to normal. This gorgeous suede moto jacket has been selling out like CRAZY all throughout the sale, but it's back in stock (at least for a moment) in a few sizes (I'm wearing a small), so snatch it up if it catches your eye and return it later if it doesn't work. Almost everything else I'm wearing in this outfit post is on sale (including this under $40 jumpsuit that I wear with everything and $40 Prada sneaker dupes), so check out the details above to shop my look!

As for the Nordstrom sale, I personally focus my attention on big ticket items I may not typically spend money on or have the budget for. Next on my shopping list is products I regularly purchase (like the Anastasia clear brow gel) I pick up products that I regularly use, grab staple fall pieces under $50 (like this faded black denim jacket) and snatch a few gifts along the way (eh-umm girl boss card holder under $20).

Like I said, buy and return is the name of the game...everything does sell out! Keep scrolling to check out my personal purchases and my top pick wishlist.

1. My mom and I both bought the Longline Moto Jacket (x-small for her, small for me). It'll be my go-to every day black jacket. It can be dressed up or dressed down. Not too heavy and a great length.

2. This ombre faux leather tote caught my attention from day one of the sale! It's just fun. Love this purple-ish color, but they have a gray one too!

3. You can't have too many denim jackets (in my opinion), and this is the first black one I've added to my collection! It has more stretch than any other denim I have, which makes for such a comfy fit...it's my favorite.

4. The Anastasia Beverly Hills clear brow gel is part of my daily makeup routine, so to find it at a discount is worth having a few extra bottles on deck!

5. I spoke about the suede moto jacket CRAZE in my outfit details above...it's been selling like hotcakes (such a weird phrase?), so I hope it stays long enough for you to snatch one up.

6. The Ruffle Swing Jacket was another purchase specifically for Mom...how darling is it?! It still hasn't arrived yet, but I'm hoping it's perfect on her! I included the Perry Bootie because 1) to find Eileen Fisher shoes at such a huge discount is the BEST, 2) they'll be the most comfortable boot EVER (seriously--my favorite comfort brand) and 3) Mom actually purchased this pair in last year's sale! She'll be wearing them again all season long. Great investment piece for sure!

7. The Kate Spade drop waist coat was my big splurge this year. Definitely not something I would've spent the money on at full price! The fit is absolutely beautiful and I just love having a feminine coat for winter.

A few more items I purchased that are currently out of stock: Patchwork Cardigan (oversized to perfection), Faux Leather & Suede Satchel, Polka Dot Bell Sleeve Blouse (available in other colors), Santa Monica choker (my jewelry splurge), Y-choker (rose gold). Also, the Beachwaver is on sale! This is the curling iron I use to curl/wave my hair!!! It's well worth the money if you're in the market for a new curler...I'm obsessed with it. Linking all of these items, so keep checking back for restocks until August 6!

1. The velvet burnout booties...I mean, come on. They'd undoubtedly match everything I own. Here I go justifying another purchase! ;)

2. I love the art deco vibe of these Loren Hope drop earrings.

3. Girl Boss card holder...perfect stocking stuffer, under $20 gift exchange, secret Santa, or girlfriend gift.

4. If you've ever considered designer sunglasses, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale would be the time to buy them! These Gucci 51mm Round sunnies are totally killer!

5. I had a leather dress that lasted me for years and years...ever since, I've been on the hunt for another leather staple! I love this caramel color and the a-line fit would be so versatile, whether it's with a tank/cardi or a chunky knit oversized sweater! So tempting.

6. Splurge item that'd make ya feel like a million bucks! Cashmere wrap available in 4 colors, along with this colorblock option too. Would make for a great gift for a special woman in your life. LOVE!

7. This bell sleeve peplum top is so simplistic and chic. Say no more. I might wear it every day with a different jacket/cardi/coat for fall!

8. I find it challenging to find off-white boots that aren't tacky...these are super cute! Love the chunky short heel. They come in black and gray too.

9. How many days would you rather carry a wristlet around town than the kitchen sink in your handbag?! This smartphone wallet seems like the perfect on-the-go errand-running solution. YAS. The color is so fun too!

10. Can't get over the shape and color of these suede pumps! Could be worn with any color.

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Flash Sale - Sam Edelman

Nobody loves a sale more than this girl and there's SO many good ones going on right now as seasons transition! I'm pretty choosy about which ones I share, but Sam Edelman can't be passed up. This is a 40-60% OFF online sale that ends this Friday, the 28th! Sizes WILL GO FAST. I advise purchasing and returning at your local Nordstrom Rack if something isn't the perfect fit. Here are a few of my favorites from the sale selection:

1. Joey Bootie - Putty

2. Elina Over-The-Knee Boot - Black

3. Kavi Sneaker - Black

4. Fianna Flat - Golden Carmel

5. Seana Block Heel Sandal - Bistro

6. Tate Bootie - Black

7. Leya Faux Fur Laceless Sneaker - Coral Neutral

8. Marlene Ankle Bootie - Brown

9. Natty Platform Espadrille - Navy Denim

10. Victoria Slouch Boot - Camel

11. Rubin Bootie - Moss Green

12. Chandler Studded Bootie - Black 

Happy shopping!

Jess

Finding Hope In The Desert

☆ Special thanks to Zenni Optical for sponsoring this post! ☆

As you probably know, eyewear is one of my favorite accessories. Nothing can transform a look quite like adding the right pair of glasses. I wear prescriptions, so finding high quality, trendy and affordable RX lenses is a MUST.

And whenever I’m shooting outfits for my blog, I normally add the eyewear last as a finishing touch or optional accessory, but with these, my Zenni Optical eyewear actually inspired both of these desert chic looks!

I want the pink monochromatic look to draw attention to the utilitarian, stainless steel aviators. (Must note the scalloped edges on this tee (under $20) too! I love that little detail.) As for the cat eye shades (also available in reading glasses), they totally set the tone for this festival-inspired pom pom jacket (low in stock) and UFO vibes. Say no more.

☆Shop the look ☆

Tee: Missguided | Jeans: ASOS | Glasses: Zenni Optical | Shoes: c/o Ivanka Trump

How To Find Hope In The Desert

1. Count your blessings

Make a list of what you’re grateful for. Once I remind myself of the overwhelming goodness that surrounds me, my heart takes a deep breath. Thankfulness resets my focus.

Remember: Your grumbles and complaints may be among your neighbor’s greatest desires. We so easily forget our miracles. Don’t let them become washed up memories, for they are Faithfulness in flesh and blood. They give us hope for the asking, faith for the knocking and belief for the seeking.

2. Put Courage In

“Encourage” simply means to put courage in. Hand out sincere compliments like candy. Challenge yourself to send one encouraging text to a friend per week! Set reminders on your phone to help.

If you think a kind thought about someone more than once, TELL THEM! We oftentimes don’t verbalize how amazing we think someone is (for whatever reason—maybe they already know, we don’t think they need to hear that from us, etc.). I personally believe we’d all feel 10000000% more hope-filled, inspired, loved, appreciated and encouraged if we took a moment to adopt the IN-courage concept! Pour courage into others, and you’ll find yourself encouraged.

3. Serve

Serving others redirects our focus and resets our hearts. Help at church, lead a small group, step up in your community. Take a mission trip or volunteer in your own backyard. The point is, help out and jump in. It’ll do your heart good.

☆ Shop the look ☆

Jacket: ASOS | Jeans: Old Navy | Booties: Marc Fisher | Glasses: Zenni Optical

4. Look up

Where is your head? Is it down in the trenches of your difficulty? Where are your thoughts? Hope can be found in the desert by setting our minds on things above, because God has a future and a plan for us. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Ask God to change your perspective to see how He sees your circumstances and the people around you. Seeing through His eyes should change the color, clarity and focus as much as me putting my pink shades on. Wow, what a change. "Wonder" from Hillsong United always reminds me of this! Check it out:

I see the world in light ☆ I see the world in wonder ☆ I see the world in life ☆ Bursting in living color ☆ I see the world your way ☆ And I'm walking in the light ☆ Turning wilderness to wonder

Colossians 3:2 – “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (NIV)

Psalm 121 – "I look up at the vast size of the mountains—from where will my help come in times of trouble? The Eternal Creator of heaven and earth and these mountains will send the help I need. He holds you firmly in place; He will not let you fall. He who keeps you will never take His eyes off you and never drift off to sleep. What a relief! The One who watches over Israel never leaves for rest or sleep. The Eternal keeps you safe, so close to Him that His shadow is a cooling shade to you. Neither bright light of sun nor dim light of moon will harm you. The Eternal will keep you safe from all of life’s evils, from your first breath to the last breath you breathe, from this day and forever." (The VOICE)

5. Press On

Keep going. Don’t give up. This won’t last forever. Press through and press on.

Psalm 30:5 – “Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (NLT)

Isaiah 58:11 – “The Eternal One will never leave you; He will lead you in the way that you should go. When you feel dried up and worthless, God will nourish you and give you strength. And you will grow like a garden lovingly tended; you will be like a spring whose water never runs out.” (The VOICE)

Hebrews 12:1-2 – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (NLT)

☆ Jessica Sheppard's blog and social media platforms contain affiliate links, which means a commission can be earned on your purchases. I only promote products and brands that I love...all opinions are my own. ☆

Just Ask Jess no.1

Shop the post:

Off-the-shoulder velvet burnout dress: similar here | Sandals: c/o Mari A. (similar here)| Handbag: c/o myWalit (similar here) | Earrings: c/o Baublebar (on sale under $25!)

[if you see a spinning wheel, refresh your page]

I’ve asked my Instagram fam to send me some questions for a little Q&A and I received an overwhelming response! So, I think it'll be fun to make a little series out of this! Who knows where this will go. Hope you enjoy seeing what everyone asked and reading my answers too!

What I love so so SO much about this is the variety of questions I receive! Marketing and branding experts say how important it is to “find your niche” as a blogger, but I’ve always gone rogue when it comes to that. My interests and creative endeavors are so diverse that I could never choose blogging about one over another. Sure, each season may lend itself to one over another, but my blog is where they all come together as one expression…my life.

The questions you guys have already sent include a bit of everything! Fashion and style, faith and relationship with God, piano and musicianship, and photo taking and Instagram editing tricks. I post what I like and obviously hope you like it too, but I don’t overthink whether you do or not. #sorrynotsorry

But there’s something special about receiving questions on the very topics my life revolves around that really encourages my little blogger heart. Sweet confirmation that I am in fact building an audience that’s engaged with my content, which is what every blogger dreams of. Your questions definitely help me know what content you like the most, so please keep it coming! I’m at a place in blogging where I’m really looking for that…what do I talk about that’s most valuable to you? Anyway, that’s just a bit of rambling about why I’m so excited about this Q&A series! Now let’s pretend we’ve sat down for a nice little chitchat! In 3-2-1…

Q: Favorite photo editing apps…

A: VSCO and Enlight!

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Q: What filters do you use to edit your Instagram photos?

I don’t know if you've noticed, but the beginning of July began a new chapter in my Instagram aesthetic...I needed a change! (Ok, how basic is this conversation right now?) Here are the exact filters I use! I’M TELLING ALL. It’s a process, so don’t judge me.

VSCO – S2

VSCO – A6

(sometimes I’ll add a touch of C8 or C9 too)

Enlight – Image->Adjust->AD1

Enlight – Image->Adjust->Halycon

I’ll play with the brightness, contrast and/or clarity, depending on what each photo needs, but that’s the secret recipe!

And for my DSLR photos, I edit with Lightroom on my laptop.

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Q: How long did you take piano lessons?

A: I started classical piano lessons (Suzuki method) when I was 5 years old, which was apparently my idea…turned on me when I realized practicing was involved! :) That method is a combination of both sight-reading and ear training. I went to one private lesson and one group lesson per week and practiced every day before school. Oh the struggle!

I took lessons for almost 10 years and around that time worked on learning chords and improvising (which was like learning a whole new instrument—not having the notes to play in front of me). Around that same time, I joined the youth band at Gateway Church and the rest is history! I’ve been playing there for 12 years now and love it with all of my heart. The Lord met my diligence with His faithfulness…so grateful for that.

I wanted to give up over and over again, but once my parents could see a natural ability, they wouldn’t let me quit. Now I practically owe them my salary. Thanks, Mom and Dad!

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Q: How old were you when you became a believer?

A: My dad has been in the Christian music ministry for over 40 years, and I started traveling with my parents when I was 6 weeks old. He was writing songs to God before contemporary worship music existed, which is mind boggling to me! I asked Jesus into my heart when I was 5 years old in my kindergarten class…yep. :)

I never really experienced a rebellious phase or season in my life when I ever turned away from God. I'm so far from perfect and my life hasn't always been easy, but my heart has always been to do the right thing. My "testimony" is really more of God's protection and grace...to steer me clear of going the wrong way, and really guiding me to being at the right place at the right time.

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Q: What’s your journey with Christ been like? I was raised in the Christian church but had lots of questions about the whole thing. I just recently moved churches and feel like my relationship is growing with Him. Any advice in growing with that?

A: Wow, what a topic. This makes me so excited! I mean the fact that you're asking is proof that you are growing closer to Christ (whether it feels like it or not). Disclaimer before I start rambling…this is not “7 Ways to Grow in Your Relationship With God.” NOPE. I’m not answering this as a blogger, I’m just responding as a girl who loves Jesus and will speak openly, honestly and plainly about my personal experience with Him...so here goes!

Even if you have your dream job, there are going to be things about your job that you won't like. The same is true with your church family. Regardless of how wonderful the church is, it won't be a perfect place because it's full of imperfect people.

And many times, the enemy uses discouraging or hurtful church circumstances to turn us away from community, which isolates us. Isolation is never safe, so it's important to press through and find your people...stay with the pack. ;) You'll know in your gut when a church feels like home!

Find people who can really encourage your walk with God. Find friends you can admire for their relationship with Him. Find podcasts and resources online to help too. (I'd be happy to forward you some messages that are really reading my mail right now!)

My parents have even decided that, over any other deciding factors, where we live should be based on finding our church home. My dad has encouraged me as an adult not to move for job opportunities unless I first know where I'm going to be planted in a church community. Being at our current church has completely changed the course of my entire life, so I can personally see the impact of being in a healthy vibrant church.

My journey with Christ has really just been a slow and steady, daily effort. The fact that you're developing a relationship with a person you can't see sounds kinda crazy, but it's the most wild adventure anyone could ever sign up for.

When I wake up in the mornings, I ask God to be in charge of my day. I invite His presence to fill my life...acknowledge Him throughout my day...talk to Him about everything. Even in writing this, I'm asking Him to lead and direct me with what I should say. I express my thoughts and feelings to Him. (He knows what we're thinking already.) After all, He knows more about me than I know about myself...He created me.

Honesty is key, just like any other friendship. He likes our honesty with Him, even if it's messy, ugly, broken and emotional. The longer you live with Him, the more you build up a history with Him. Just like any relationship...you're building trust. And when trust is combined with things we can't see, it's called faith. Every single part of the Christian life takes faith.

So I don’t know what the future holds, but I know the plan for today…and I do my best not to worry about tomorrow. I have my moments, but God has always been faithful to me and I confidently stand on the fact that He’ll continue to be so. Looking back on those moments when He's been faithful is why I can confidently believe (with faith) that He'll continue to be...that's the history He's built with me.

All I can do in the unknowns of life is be faithful with what’s in my hands…today. And that's me building history with Him. The Bible talks about being faithful with little so we can be trusted with a lot (Luke 16:10). So the trust you're building in your relationship is a two-way street.

Growth really can't be measured on a day-to-day basis. It's seen more clearly when you look back several years and say, "Wow. Look at the history we've built."

Unfortunately many times history and growth are built through hard times, bad days, disappointments, heartache, brokenness and pain. Experiencing life in a fallen world build character, maturity, strength, endurance...and a deeper level of trust in the wisdom, goodness and grace of an unseen God. The hard seasons are the ones I can always point back to as the times when I've grown the most.

In terms of hearing God speak, that's been challenging for me. I want an audible voice, a sign from heaven or clear "writing on the wall"...but it doesn't usually happen like that. It's different for everyone, but sometimes He speaks through the "knowing" in your gut. Sometimes He speaks through giving a sense of peace in a situation. He mainly speaks through reading the Bible.

Sometimes He speaks through our circumstances or people around us. Sometimes He speaks through our own desires...we may think it's just our own thoughts, but it's actually Him dreaming through us when we've committed our thoughts to Him. Sometimes we feel prompted to do something and it's actually Him leading us to do that.

Sometimes He speaks through having a dream while you're sleeping. Sometimes a topic will keep popping up, or the same phrase, or the same idea...and that'll serve as confirmation that He's speaking to me...it almost becomes an inside joke between Him and me.

The bottom line is He that is always speaking...we just have to learn to hear what He's saying. The Bible says if we draw close to God, He'll draw near to us (James 4:8). It's that two-way street again.

It's so cool, because if you'll take a step toward Him, He'll take 10 toward you. He's so gracious to meet us where we are. And if your faith ever feels low or you're not quite sure about the whole thing, the Bible says when we're faithless, He STILL remains faithful -- because He cannot deny Himself. Wow, that's a fierce level of faithfulness I can't comprehend with my mind. He literally cannot NOT be faithful, because it's who He is.

I don't really know where you are or what's going on in your world, but I believe that even in your searching and questions, God's going to reveal Himself to you in ways you haven't experienced before. And He's cool with your questions, by the way...He wants you to ask. Matthew 7:7 says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." You'll find what you're looking for.

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Q: What lens do you use to take your pictures?

A: Most of my blog photos are taken with a 28mm 2.8 lens, but my favorite for shooting portraits is a 50mm 1.4.

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Q: Any fun (and comfortable) sandal recommendations for a mom on the go? I basically live in my Birks right now and need some new options!

A: Giving you my top comfy sandal picks below, along with a list of my favorite brands for shoes that won’t break your feet…and hopefully not the bank either. Obviously everyone’s feet are different, but a few of these brands are legit.

When it comes to shoes, I’m getting progressively less tolerant of uncomfortable shoes with every passing year of my life. LOL! Unfortunately, sometimes you get what you pay for. Comfort shoes are expensive, but my favorites are all under $150, and most under $100. I found a few of my favorite brands on SUPER SALE, so I’m excited about the options! Click on the pics and see what suits your fancy. Happy shopping!

1.     Eileen Fisher (the BEST!)

2.     Gentle Souls

3.     Michael Kors

4.     Sam Edelman

5.     Melissa

6.     Matisse

7.     Dolce Vita

8.     Rebecca Minkoff

9.     MIA

10.  Steve Madden

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Q: Favorite video editing apps…

A: I constantly get DMs about how I edit my Instagram stories. I use an app called Glitche for the psychedelic colorful madness (seen below—you can do the same effect to a photo). The filter is called “CHNNLS” and you can change the color variety using the “Mode 1,” “Mode 2,” “Mode 3,” “Mode 4” options.

Another recent favorite is VidLab. It has so many more video filter options than Instagram! Options…we like options.

Leave me a comment if you have a question and I’ll get to work! :)

Love y’all,

Jess

Wouldn't You Like To Know...How To Shop My Instagram Outfits!

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Wouldn't youuu like to know what this "liketoknow.it" business is all about?! I'm always posting about it, especially on my Instagram pictures! So I'm going to walk you through the step-by-step of what it is, how to use it and why it'll benefit your [shopping] life!

WHAT. Liketoknow.it is an IOS app that helps you shop my Instagram outfits! SO NEAT-O. Click here to download it. It's important to note that you don't have to have the app to still shop my Instagram photos. You can sign up for liketoknow.it online and shop my photos that way too!

After you've downloaded on your phone, open the app and sign up with your email address. then go to your "Settings," -> "Notifications." Make sure "Notifications" are turned ON for the "Liketoknow.it" app. That's important!

HOW. This is the easy part! When you see a picture on my Instagram that's marked with the #likekit hashtag, just screenshot the image!

If you have your notifications turned on, you should receive a notification within a few minutes of your screenshot that my photo is "ready to shop!" Open the notification (which will open the app) with the products and items I'm wearing...right at your fingertips to shop till ya drop!

WHY. If I had a penny for every time someone said, "Where did you find that?" or "Where in the world did you buy that?" I would be a millionaaaaaire. Now with Liketoknow.it, not only can I show you where I purchased it, but you can access the direct link to shop it for yourself.

If you're ever curious about where I find something or have any questions about an item I post, always DM or message me! It makes me the happiest to hear from you guys and I LOVE helping when it comes to shopping. :)

NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY. Liketoknow.it will also come in VERY handy as soon as the Nordstrom Anniversary sale kicks off! Early access to the sale begins NEXT WEEK! To gain early access to the sale, you have to become a Nordstrom cardholder. I know, I know...no one wants an extra credit or debit card, but this one is so worth it! Apply here to get in on the goods before the general public. There's all kinds of points and perks to being a cardholder. I'm obsessed!

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Similar Crop Tops:

Similar Pleated Skirts:

Similar Western Belts:

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Dependent On God In An Independent World →

Shop the post:

Overalls: Blank NYC | Bow Blouse: similar here and here | Booties (similar here) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters (under $20!) | Lipstick: Maybelline

What does it mean to be dependent on God in an independent world? As teens, we want independence. As women, we want independence. As a nation, we want independence. But if you ask me, I’d rather not do it all on my own. There is freedom in submission. I can't move any mountains for myself. I’m not strong enough, I’m not smart enough, I’m not brave enough…but with God? I believe He can help me do anything, so I go to Him for everything.

Independence Day always has a way of reminding me of my dependence on God…I think it’s even the title itself that jogs my memory and resets my focus...my dependence.

How To Be Dependent On God In An Independent World

1. Ask the Holy Spirit

The Bible says the Holy Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16:13). He’s my helper, my leader, my guidance. (P.S. I found this article which includes 50 things the Holy Spirit does in your life if you’re interested via Charisma Magazine)

Application: When you wake up in the morning, invite the Holy Spirit to be involved in every part of your day…before you roll over and take a look at your phone.

Romans 12:1-2 | "So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you."

2. Ask the Lord

As a Christian, of course I’ve asked Jesus into my heart…but have I asked Him to be Lord of my life?  This simply means He has full control in every regard…every category and compartment of my world.

Application: When you experience a challenge or difficulty, ask the Lord what He wants you to do before you call your best friend to complain about life.

Proverbs 3:5-6 | "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

3. Ask the Father

I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but dads LOVE to take care of their kids. Not only their needs, but also their desires! And if you ask me, there’s something extra special about a daughter. Even though we think in earthly terms (and therefore apply whatever we know of a natural “dad” to God), imagine how a PERFECT father would treat you! He never messes up and always comes through. Not only is He perfect, but His resources are endless...so what would you ask for?

Application: Ask for your needs, but also ask for your wildest desires. Make big requests known to God. Ask Him to take care of you.

Philippians 4:6-7 | "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

I hope you find this encouraging on Independence Day! I included a few sales going on and if you keep scrolling, you'll find more Scriptures on the topic. Happy Fourth!

"For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." Proverbs 16:9

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26

"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters." Psalm 23:1-2

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." Isaiah 40:29

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

"I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalm 16:8

"Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge." Psalm 16:1

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:14

 

Happy 4th of July!

Jess

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Summer of Color | Jess & Jackie

Shop Jessica's Outfit:

Off-the-shoulder dress: Urban Outfitters | Sneakers: Prada (similar here) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters | Lipstick: Maybelline | Bracelets: Alex & Ani, Alex & Ani

Shop Jackie's Outfit:

Off-the-shoulder top: similar here and here | Jeans: Madewell (on sale!) | Heels: Rebecca Minkoff | Bag: Cult Gaia | Bandana: Madwell (tropical coral)  | Sunglasses: Madewell | Earrings: Madewell

SUMMER OF COLOR | Jackie (from DashofPanacheBlog.com) and I met through Instagram over a year ago and she's since become a real-life keeper. I've said it once and I'll say it again...it amazes me how God uses blogging to bring new friends into my world. It's the best.

There are many things I love about this girl, but one to especially note is her effortlessly chic styling. Seriously go pay her blog a visit! And she recently became engaged, so check her Instagram feed for the cuteness. (*squeals*)

We're teaming up to share our favorite bold accessories for the season! Key to summer wardrobe success: just add color.

I've recently been so impressed with how a few colorful accessories can completely transform a neutral outfit. It's the name of my summer game, that's for sure!

1 Tassel Earrings

2 Yellow Aviator Shades

3 Vacation Clutch

4 Stripe Neck Scarf

5 Red Slide Heels

6 Panama Pom Pom Sun Hat

7 NARS Lipstick - Color Schiap

Much love,

Jess

All-American Summer

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USA Tee: Urban Outfitters | Shorts: Urban Outfitters | Choker: Urban Outfitters | Sneakers: Prada (similar here) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters

All-American Summer | The Tommy Hilfiger Spring 2017 ready-to-wear show cued me up to the "all-American" trend! RED WHITE AND BLUE all day every day. :) Well almost! Gucci, Rebecca Minkoff and others reinforced the resounding love for the patriotic colors of the season.

What does this mean for you? You can wear your July 4 outfit all summer longgggg! And if you ask me, this simply helps justify a few new firework purchases since it's not just a one-time wear. So here you'll find my "All-American Summer Shopping Guide" for your last minute Fourth of July OOTD, or some summer essentials to ride the USA wave. Find the number associated with the item below the photo and click to shop!

1 USA Tee

2 Oval Sunglasses

3 Strap Crossbody Bag

4 Stripe Cold Shoulder Top

5 Fringe Earrings

6 Embroidered Booties

7 Stripe Off-the-shoulder Dress

8 American Hockey Tee

9 Kimono Topper

10 Michael Kors Floral Heel

11 Strawberry Neck Scarf

12 Madewell Leather Tote

13 Peony Blouse

14 Sailor Sandal

15 Tommy Jeans Tee

All the best,

Jess

Dad + Daughter Date Ideas | Father's Day with JEEP

I have been given compensation for this post by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

If there’s one thing I know about my dad, it’s that he loves doing things together. Quality time and uninterrupted eye contact?...speaking his language. On the other hand, I LOVE shopping, gift-gifting and gift-receiving…what a girl, right?

So for holidays, the struggle is real with Dad…he’s the toughest cookie to buy for! He likes researching, collecting information, comparing pricing…it’s a thorough and involved shopping process. Respect.

In honor of our hard-to-shop-for fathers (assuming at least one of you can relate), I thought it’d be fun to write a Father’s Day post with my dad on our favorite father/daughter date ideas. Here’s our TOP 7!

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DAD + DAUGHTER DATE IDEAS | FATHER'S DAY WITH JEEP

1.     CAMP JEEP | If you’re in the Dallas/Ft Worth area, Camp Jeep will be at Grapevine Mills Mall this weekend! Fun and free activity with Dad…done. Camp Jeep was at Taste of Dallas last weekend, where we took a spin with a professional driver and experienced the off-road 4x4 action of the 2017 Jeep vehicles! Now I’m craving two things… 1) Go off-roading and 2) own a Jeep. You can see it in these photos…we had SO MUCH FUN.

2.     SCENT SAMPLING | Dad is quite a cologne connoisseur! We both enjoy shopping for new fragrances, so sampling smells at Sephora is always a good time.

3.     SPORTING | Golf is Dad’s favorite sport. He practices in his mind (like only a genius would). I like hitting golf balls with him at the driving range, or treating him to a round (I’ll drive his cart :). Top Golf is fun, but we’re usually more about the real deal. I really enjoy the batting cages too!

4.     DRIVE-IN MOVIE | Going to see a drive-in movie is a little spin on the classic dinner and a movie idea!

5.     MEAL + MEANINGFUL CONVOS | Dad feels like it’s a treat to go “out to eat.” It’s something he loves! Good conversation over a good meal is special to me, so I’d probably go straight for the deep life questions…I like asking him questions about the past, about God, about the future. He’s wise and likes dreaming, too…I’m grateful for that.

6.     AMUSEMENT PARK | We love riding roller coasters until we’re practically blue in the face, so rocking a local amusement park definitely makes our list.

7.     CONCERT | Go to a concert! Dad and I both love music, so a concert date sounds like such a good time.

This year, we already knocked out #1 and will definitely hit up #5 also. What are your favorite dad and daughter dates? Do you have any ideas to add to mine? Leave me a comment and let me know what your Father’s Day plans are!

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Shop the Post:

Top: Show Me Your Mumu (size down - also available here) | Denim shorts: Levi's (under $35 - size up) | Sunglasses: Urban Outfitters | Necklace: c/o Baublebar

Special thanks to Hannah Weehunt for documenting our date at Camp Jeep, and to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles for sponsoring this post.

Much love,

Jess