Why 2017 Is Going To Be Epic

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Crew-neck shirt: Old Navy (under $7) | Tulle skirt: ASOS | Necklace: similar here and here

Happy New Year! I'm taking a breather to reflect on 2016...feeling overwhelmingly grateful for my story, the happiness and hardships of the year, the gift of music and the gift of creativity, the gift of family (including my first-class parents, my Gateway Church world and my newfound blogging friends), and ultimately the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Thank YOU for following my journey and being part of my story...the one I believe God is writing...here's to a crispy NEW page.

Travel made up a big portion of my year and I had a blast looking back through the photos, stories and adventures of 2016. Click here to review my travel diaries from 2016!

This year began with making new California memories, so what better way to kick things off than this West Coast shoot?! Big Sur, CA is one of the most stunning places I've ever visited (see my photo diaries and vlog from my previous trip) and I feel grateful to have made it back again for more exploring.

Below, I'm doing a little Q&A about 2016/2017 and I'm also asking YOU a few questions in my reader review (yep, it's anonymous). Please click here and take a minute to fill it out...I'd absolutely love to have your input on the blog as I plan content for the New Year!

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Q: Why is 2017 more epic than Big Sur?

A: Because God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask, imagine or think...now that's epic! (Ephesians 3:20) 

Q: Fess up! How many days did you spend in California in 2016?

A: Do you really want to know? 26.

Q: What’s one trip you hope to take this year?

A: Just one?! I’d love to go to NYC for NYFW with a few of my blogger friends!

Q: What’s a purchase you’d like to make in 2017?

A: A legit bedroom vanity would be so awesome, along with a new full-length mirror. I also want to finish decorating my work office, set up a home office, and purchase a studio photography lighting rig!

Q: What’s the best lesson you learned in 2016?

A: Sleep is not overrated.

Q: What are a few of your focuses for 2017?

A: Learn, grow, flourish, anticipate, relax, enjoy, dream, believe, repeat.

Q: Blog goals this year?

A: Of course, I have the longest list! :) But the most important to me is that I want more people to see my blog. Not because I think it's the best blog since sliced bread, but because I’m passionate about it and want more people to have the opportunity to enjoy it as much as I do. I love people more than I like my blog and each person who visits the pages of my life represents their own story, set of experiences, perspectives, difficulties and dreams. My desire is to be a source of encouragement, hope and inspiration to anyone who steps foot onto my digital space, whether it be for one visit or a daily check-in.

I won't necessarily focus on posting more, but more people seeing the posts I'm sharing. (One of the simple ways this can happen is through you sharing my blog posts to your social media pages and showing the blog to your friends!)

Q: What’s one superhero power you wish you could have this year?

A: Pausing time and multiplying it! I also wish I could multiply my multitasking ability by 100%. 

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Remember to take my reader review! Here's to a fabulous 2017!!!

Much love and Happy New Year,

Jess

Carmel Rose

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Moto Jacket: ASOS | Swing Top: similar here | Pants: Old Navy (similar here) | Over-the-knee Boots: Catherine Malandrino | Layered Necklace: similar here | Lip Color: Bite Beauty + Bite Beauty

If you’ve known me longer than two minutes, you probably know I like to head west as often as possible. California is my “grace space” AKA favorite getaway. Malibu and Carmel are my most visited locations, but let me know if you have some suggestions to add to my list. :)

Since my bestie and travel buddy (Blaire) is working on her master’s degree and my schedule is on overdrive, taking a vacation this time around wasn’t in the original plan, but it must’ve been in the master plan all along because the details fell into place with ease.

So we’ve been enjoying, adventuring, relaxing, savoring and eating a bit also. I’ve been on a journey of practicing rest, while mastering the art of fun…and understanding how those two things "balance" with the daily grind of life (read more here). It can easily feel selfish, but there’s nothing healthier than learning what refuels your mind, soul, body and spirit…and do more of that…like, actually put it on the calendar and not just think about it, not just plan it, not just dream it, but actually do. Anyway, we should chat more on that topic soon, but for now, I’m on vacation…soooo let’s get on to the outfit!

This jacket…oh, this jacket. The perfect color, the perfect fit and the perfect fabric for the perfect price. I’m clearly so pleased with this purchase! The over-the-knee boots took me by surprise…I was actually looking for some flats at Nordstrom Rack when I found these on clearance and to my surprise, I managed to locate them online for the same price…ta-da! Not the color I’d instantly go to, but I love them more than I could’ve ever imagined!

*Style tip: when styling this dusty rose color, treat it as if it’s a neutral like grey or beige and go from there…it works with everything!*

Today we're headed out to the Monterey Bay aquarium...Blaire spotted 7 whales yesterday, so she's hoping for more sea life sightings!

Much love,

Jess

On the Road with Martin Smith | FAITH + TRAVEL

To say Martin Smith is a forerunner in worship music would be an understatement (cue I Could Sing of Your Love Forever, Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble?, Emmanuel, God’s Great Dance Floor, etc.). He’s been a leader, innovator, influencer and model for the church world for 25 years, and he’s made a significant impact on my world recently.

On August 18, 2016, I played keyboards for Martin at Gateway Church for a special night of worship. You may recall my Snapchat from that night...included below. :) This was a “once in a lifetime” experience for me personally, considering the fact that his distinguished and recognizable sound was the soundtrack to my earlier years.

Two weeks later, I received a text asking if I’d be interested in playing at a conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with Martin and his band. Would I be interested??? My “once in a lifetime” was transforming before my eyes (insert all of the emojis here).

I really didn’t know what to expect. I love Martin Smith’s musicianship and leadership, but I’d only spent about 5 hours with him to this point. Those 5 hours turned into a 5-day ministry trip, which left me feeling like family with a group of people I’d never met.

I arrived at the Philly airport around the same time as 3 Brits arrived from London Heathrow. We met up and drove 2 hours together to Lancaster. Needless to say, we had some good ole’ quality time right off the bat! My roommate for the week was Elle, who arrived late that evening…just as I was jumping into bed. Nothing like first impressions!

Here come the photo diaries, along with some continued #fangirling, but I'll do my best to keep it to a minimum. :)

VIDEO RECAP | CLICK HERE!

COFFEE MATES

Coffee is a MUST for this crew, so a walk to the local coffee shop became our morning routine.

DELIRIOUS? MATES

Martin and Stu G were in a band called Delirious? for two decades together, but they haven’t properly played together since then. The legends reunited on this trip...what a special occasion!!!

*Note to self: leave your camera sitting around more often...^^*

LANCASTER MATES

AMISH MATES

Our trip to Lancaster wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Amish country! That afternoon included following a guided tour bus around town, exploring a local gift shop and blasting tunes with the windows down…until we accidentally got behind the wrong truck.

BAND MATES

The musicianship is unmatched…I mean, seriously. What am I doing here and how am I playing with Martin Smith and Stu G?! But more importantly, the genuine care, encouragement and FUN I experienced was more than words could ever say. This was one of the best weeks of my life musically, spiritually, creatively and personally—and I don’t say that lightly. I came home inspired and motivated on every level.

*Side note: Martin has a new band called ARMY OF BONES! I used their song “Break Away” in my recap video…be sure to check them out!*

Live event photos by Tom Limebear | Travel photos by Jessica Sheppard | Edits by Jessica Sheppard

This experience has stirred my faith. 3 months ago, I could hardly fathom playing with Martin at Gateway. It never crossed my mind that anything else would come of it. What a God surprise! Life's circumstances can look entirely different in a moment's time. Anything and everything is possible. Overwhelmingly humbled. Overwhelmingly grateful.

Thank you Martin and friends for a week to remember.

Much love,

Jess

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Monday Memories | PHOTOGRAPHY + TRAVEL

Since someone like me would probably be missing California on a day like today, I thought it'd be a good idea to relive my recent West Coast memories with a photo diary. Finally sharing a few pictures that seemingly slipped through the social media cracks.

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Venice Beach

Mom and I (surprisingly) spent an enjoyable amount of time in Venice, an area I've honestly avoided at all costs. Why? Because all I remember from past visits to the area is helicopters swarming over the beach and people dressed in bizarre styles (including costume masks). It just seemed like a confusing place. 😳 

Anyway, this time around, I'm eating my words...largely due to the amazing eats of Venice Beach.

I met up with one of my blogger friends, Jenna (from Visions of Vogue) for lunch at The Butcher's Daughter, which was such a treat...followed by an ice cream treat at Salt & Straw. Mom tried the sea salt caramel and I indulged in lavender honey. Seriously, it's a must.

West Hollywood

West Hollywood is one of my favorite areas in LA. If you missed my Top 5 Instagram Spots in LA, more photos from the neighborhood are featured there!

Malibu

Ahhh, the best for last (in my humble opinion). Malibu is my "grace place," the spot where I inhale rest and exhale LIFE! This is the area I love to stay when I visit LA, because there are oceans and mountains only 45 minutes from the city (not to mention southern California weather). I seem to leave more of my heart there with every visit...it's such a special place to me. I could go on and on, or I could just stop talking and show you my photos.

We stopped off for a late lunch/early 4:30 p.m. dinner at one our favorite Malibu spots. What are the chances of us running into friends from Southern Germany there?? We must've been at the right place at the right time. Then Psalm 37:23 comes to mind: "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives."

Life happenings may seem to be "random" or "coincidence," but when our days are surrendered to God, He's leading even our smallest decisions. Grateful for His grace to remind us we're right where we're supposed to be, even in our leisurely moments.

Much love xo

Jess

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5 Instagram Spots in LA | TRAVEL + FASHION

5 Instagram Spots in LA | Travel

Am I the only one that has an unspoken, unofficial Instagram bucket list? For instance, whether it's a cute little place that everyone posts about or an epic spot that I must see for myself, Instagram has helped mold the explorer in me.

In fact, when I find out I'm scheduled to visit a city, or I'm planning a trip, I usually go straight to Instagram and search the location...the most popular Instagram picture-taking hot spots are usually in the "top posts" from that city! Just a little travel tip if you're a picture chaser like me. :)

So you can guess what life was like in LA for me...visiting those Insta hotspots, being a total #tourist. I've included 5 of my favorites, only 2 of which I'd visited before. Enjoy!

1. Pink Wall @ Paul Smith | West Hollywood

We snapped these photos on my 26th birthday, so giant silver foil "26" balloons were a MUST. It was a windy afternoon, though, so my balloons were captured saying 56, 65, and 62...pretty much anything but 26. :) Oh well, we made for a fun memory, that's for sure!

2. Love Wall | Venice Beach

The "Love Wall" by @Jgoldcrown is an art piece I've always wanted to see in person, so this was definitely on my unofficial Instagram bucketlist. :)

*Location: outside the Greenleaf Chopshop in Venice Beach, California (however, there are a few similar pieces around the US)*

3. Bottega Louie | Downtown Los Angeles

Bottega Louie is my standard. I do my best to visit every time I'm in LA! The most beautiful pastry items, including the #1 MACARONS in LA...seriously, Google it. It's true. (Because all things on Google are true, right?) They also have a full restaurant, so be sure to take a visit for dessert, or a full meal if you're in the downtown area!

4. LACMA | Los Angeles

This was my second visit to the LACMA and I'm such a fan of this place! In fact, last time I was in LA, my bestie and I visited Hillsong for Sunday morning church, then ate at Bottega Louie for brunch, then spent the afternoon at LACMA! Slow-paced, open space vibe...the grounds are beautiful to enjoy. Highly recommend!

5. Aflred's Tea | West Hollywood

Alfred's Tea recently made it on my must-do list, since I've been seeing it all over Instagram lately. I expected a line to be out the door, but it was a rather quiet afternoon in this tiny corner tea room. I ordered the rose boba tea and thoroughly enjoyed it. :)

*Tip: they do not accept cash...credit cards only!*

Much love xo

Jess

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Jessica Sheppard's blog is part of an affiliate advertising program. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or any related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that purchase. All opinions are my own and gifted items are disclosed with c/o.

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Paisley in Peru | FASHION + TRAVEL

This is one of the comfiest outfits ever, which was perfect for our day of rehearsals in Peru. Paisley is such a popular print right now, so I included some similar options below, but this particular dress is on sale!!! $57 (originally $100). It always makes me reaaaally excited when I have good deals to share! 😁

Speaking of rehearsals, our student conference is coming up next week, so our band is meeting up tonight to kick this thing into high gear! Super looking forward to conference! 

Get the look...

Dress: Style London | Shoes: Adidas (similar here and here) | Lips: NYX

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Similar paisley styles...

Much love xo

Jess

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Destination Ocean Avenue | FASHION + TRAVEL

Happy Saturday! I only wish today's destination was Ocean Avenue, Carmel, California. Let's pretend this weekend is another long one like our Fourth of July, shall we? I also wish. Oh well, I'm ready to have a great weekend regardless of my wishful thinking. We have family in from out of town, which is a special occasion and might as well be treated as a national holiday! Excited to have some hang time at home since we've been traveling so much.

On a side note, the look around here has changed recently...what do you think?! I'm still adding a few pages to it and making tweaks...but that's an ongoing, never-ending process! #bloggerlife It kind of feels like moving into a new house...adding my own furniture and hanging pretties on the wall. I realize a site isn't quite as personal as a house, but almost! Blogging is much more personal than I ever gave it credit for (among other things I'm glad I didn't know before I jumped into the deep end)! Anyway, having fun "decorating" around here...hope you're enjoying the new digs as much as I am! 🤗

Can you believe I'm actually wearing a romper?! Still sticking with my black safe zone since the romper is uncharted territory. I love the dressier fabric, the gold embroidery, the lace-up and the billowing sleeves...all such pretty detail. It's been selling out so much that I included several similar rompers just in case.

I would love to tell you exactly how I did my braid action, but I don't think I could replicate it if my life depended on it. Have you ever had one of those hair days?! It just happened. Adding the sun hat to my washing-needed-twisted-braided-double-over-under-wrap-around-never-to-be-duplicated hair DO seemed like just the right touch for the look...plus, it's only $15 (linked below).

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Get the look...

Romper: ASOS (similar here and here) | Straw Boater Hat: Forever 21 | Palm Tree Tassel Earrings: ASOS (similar here and here) | Lipstick: Sephora 

Much love xo

Jess

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Gateway Worship | Lima, Peru | FAITH + TRAVEL

This time last week, I was in a bull-fighting arena. Well it used to be a bull fighting arena.

Hello, my name is...

Maybe I should just start from the beginning...hi, my name's Jessica. I'm an associate worship pastor at Gateway Church, serving as our Southlake campus music director and pianist. (That basically means I have a front row spot for all the fun stuff. 🤗) Seriously, it doesn't seem fair to call it a "job," because I love it that much.

When I stepped into Gateway Church 12 years ago (wearing a black fringe poncho paired with GAP sandals -- how could I forget?), I stepped into my future. 14-year-old Jessica couldn't have imagined she'd now be out of college working full time at such a special place, in such a seemingly tailor-made spot just for her...for such a time as this. Immeasurably more than I could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20--one of my faves). This is where I grew up, where I continue to grow, and where I now desire to help others grow. This is my land and these are my people--the ones I walk through the fires with, weather the storms with, and ride the waves with. The roots run deep here!

Walls AKA Murallas

Now back to the bull-fighting arena. Well, almost. In May of 2015, we recorded our latest worship album, "Walls," which was released in October (click here to preview/purchase). This was a really amazing project to take part in, but never did I dream we'd pack it up and take it to Peru to capture the same songs in SPANISH! Over 20,000 people gathered for the event. The sound of that many people singing the same song for the same purpose is really overwhelming...a real dream come true to experience here on earth.

Worship Leading #GOALS

The ultimate objective of leading worship is to connect with God and connect with people, and then help bring the two parties together. Once that connection is established, the worship leaders might as well be invisible. It's not about platform or performance--lights or sound--it's about people experiencing God in the greatest way possible.

At one point during the night, the congregation led us in a chorus that repeated over and over...for over 10 minutes. (I uploaded a few minutes of it on Facebook!) That congregation-led example is just one of countless heaven-on-earth moments from the night. I wish you ALL could've been there to experience it with me, but I'm so grateful to have videos and pictures to share!

That's my dad (on the right) and he is THE coolest, justsoyaknow^^

So much preparation went into this event and will continue to go into the release of this project...truly an amazing team effort! Lots of hugs, huddles and high fives to follow such an incredible experience. 🙌

I'll be sure to keep you updated when the project is releasing...I can hardly wait to relive the fun!

Much love xo

Jess

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Sunset Stories | Malibu, CA

Now I'm typically not one of those "sunset" people...you know, the ones who are posting them on the daily, snapping them nightly...the ones who incessantly chase sunsets as if they were storms. You're inevitably thinking of someone in your life as described (if you're not the one guilty as charged). They (or you) would likely be proud "labeled" as such--sunset chaser! I've honestly not paid enough attention to sunsets! Sometimes I notice, sometimes I don't. All I know is they happen, whether I'm taking note or not. In terms of photography, I photograph people--generally speaking--so, sunsets just haven't been my thing.

Backing up to college...I commuted all four years of my schooling. My commute involved about 40 minutes of driving straight into the sun, away from my suburban life, into a corner of downtown Dallas. That season of my life taught me many things, but one *bright side* it highlighted was the art of the sunrise. Ever faithful, ever unique, the sun rises...without fail. Unless it was cloudy. Or rainy. But you get the idea. It's a really beautiful concept of God's designing nature on one hand, and steadfastness on the other hand. Two epic handfuls that the human brain will never comprehend...and I'm totally cool with that.

Fast forward to my recent travels...I've found myself obsessed with catching sunsets! Like, what is the deal? The first time I remember being absolutely enthralled with photographing a sunset was my recent trip to Sarasota, Florida (see the post here). Locals claim their sunsets are the best in the world, and I can't say I'd disagree. Since then, I've observed that not only does the sun's art vary from day to day...but state to state multiplies the variety by 1,000,000. So you've seen my east coast sunsets from Sarasota...I included a Scottsdale sunset in this post...now I'm adding west coast vibes to the fun.

The first two photos were my first, "OH YEA, I LOVE SUNSETS" moment on our Malibu trip. This view is only a few miles from where we stayed. As we were headed back from dinner, the sun was just beginning to set (and I was already taking pictures out the car window). Mom's not much of a "thrill seeker," so the winding cliffs of Malibu don't necessarily light her fire. We got her home safe and sound, and just as soon as we did, I begged Dad to go back out with me...maybe we could catch this guy (sunset) in time.

The next night--same time, same place. (Pictured below)

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I mentioned my love for Point Dume (in this post), but here's the rest of the sunset photos! My parents were total troopers, cause it was a cold and rainy evening. I kept asking, "Can I get just one more shot?" (If you follow me on Snapchat ((👻juslikejess)), then you know what I mean. 😉) I can hardly wait to have some of these printed!

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Below is a photo taken from a turnout one late afternoon. The fog was rolling in, but the sun was still shining bright behind the clouds...

Now that I'd seen several amazing sunsets in Malibu, I was convinced...there must be an ideaaaal place to watch a Malibu sunset. Where is it?! I literally Googled, "best place to watch the sun set in Malibu." Na-da. (Since when does Google not have the answer?!) I looked on Yelp, TripAdvisor...nothing.

The next day would be our last night's stay in Malibu. After that, we'd drive up the coast to land in Pebble Beach.

I have a Malibu Airbnb wishlist that's constantly being updated (are you surprised?). I had my eye on a few lodging places for future stays and thought it'd be worthwhile to scope the areas out, since Airbnb won't release the exact street address until after you confirm a booking, for privacy reasons. But sometimes you can use process of elimination by having the street name and some pictures. :) So we were out driving around after dinner, in a part of Malibu we'd never explored before. It was literally up in the clouds...the drive...the views...it was all a bit over-the-edge for Mom's liking. It was a rather gloomy hour with the way the fog had rolled in...sunset surprisingly never having crossed my mind. All of a sudden, we rounded a corner and there she was. Whoa. "Dad, pull over!" Of course, there's hardly shoulder room in Malibu, but he found a makeshift spot for me to jump out and take my camera with me. I shot the below two images through a fence. I'm surprised the silver metal didn't show up!

After I grabbed the images I wanted, I hopped back in the car and excitedly asked if we could keep driving. I was thinking there'd be a more ideal spot up ahead. But at this point, I didn't want to miss it! We rounded several more corners and pulled up to a turnout where a few cars were parked and a few photographers were perched. Yep, this was it...the most ideal spot in all of Malibu to watch the sunset. It could've taken me a million sunsets to find, had I been looking for it! And we somehow stumbled onto it without ever searching.

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Remember how I said pictures are like the sixth love language to me (see post here)? This was quite honestly God showing such interest in my life and paying such attention to detail...down to the minute...that He'd lead us to this exact place at this exact minute, just so I could see the sun set from the most ideal spot in all of Malibu...on our last night to see a sunset there. Wow. These are the images I captured. It felt as if we'd stepped out of California and into Iceland...or some far off land where clouds hover over treetops and colors are painted behind the mountains in the most unreal ombre design. Wow. He must care a lot about me.

Much love xo

Jess

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