As some of you may know, my husband, Doug, is not a huge fan of making an appearance on screen or on social media.
While I’m sure you have heard a lot about him over the years, I wanted to take the time to share a little more about him on his birthday.
Who is Doug?
Doug and I were introduced to each other by my long time friend, Maria McCool. We met in October, 2000 and instantly took a liking to each other.
I think I really won Doug over when he learned I could recite the entire line up for the 1977 Los Angeles Dodgers (my favorite team growing up!) We both played sports through our childhood and high school years and baseball (for him) and softball(for me) were a huge connection point for us!
I married Doug on October 18, 2003.
Since that day, we’ve enjoyed living life together, raising kids side by side, and have been grateful to hold each other during the happiest and roughest of times.
October 18th was the day I married my best friend learned that being with someone who always has your back is one of the greatest gifts in the world.
You might have heard me mention it a few times, but Doug is a huge Philadelphia Eagles fan. And yes, his passion has turned me into an Eagles fan too!
He grew up in suburban PA, close to where we live. We like to spend our free time either watching baseball or catching up on a sports game on the TV.
While I love living in Pennsylvania, I never thought it was where I was going to end up. I’m grateful for the city because it helped get me to where I wanted to be career-wise. But I’m so much more thankful that it gave me the opportunity to meet my husband.
Now, if you ask Doug, he will say that he saw me across the room and knew at that moment that I was the person he wanted to talk to.
Forget the woman he was set up on a blind date with that night who, keep in mind, was also me 🙂
Now, I remember it slightly differently, because I knew he was the guy who I was supposed to be meeting. Either way, that was that.
If you were to ask him what he is the proudest of in life, his response would be the same every time: my kids, my wife, and trying to live a good life. Nothing else much matters beyond that.
Doug’s Contribution To Just Jill
For a long while, Doug sold software to big manufacturers.
In 2000 he started a business representing brands that sold on QVC and HSN. As such, the transition to combine our businesses was a no-brainer when I wanted to start something new.
While Doug still owns his own company, he has taken on the duty of operations and sales for Just Jill. In addition, he also works with QVC and HSN as part of Just Jill Agency.
Let’s not forget his dedication to working on the Just Jill Shop!
It’s not always easy to work with family, but we balance it well. We like each other and like to be with each other, so that makes it pretty easy.
Doug’s Faves
When I initially started the shop, it was my goal to promote products that I adore. I am so thankful for the opportunity to promote amazing businesses and their stories.
After posting about my friend and co-worker Bernadette, our team agreed to tell you a little bit more about each and every one of us here at Just Jill.
So while you may be aware of some of my favorite products that we carry in the Just Jill Shop, the team has their own favorites as well!
Here is some insight from the only male member of our team. Along with some of his picks from outside the shop!
Happy To Meat You Big Bacon Sausage Pack
“Breakfast is a great way to start the day. As the kids were growing up, Jill and I always made it a point to make a good breakfast to power them through the day.”
“This Big Bacon Sausage Pack is perfect for making for Trev or Kylie… and something I can do without being a “cook”!”
Happy to Meat You Gotta Beef with Us
“I’m a big hoagie fan, so I know exactly what I do and do not like on my sandwiches.”
“I love eating this Italian beef on a sandwich. It’s perfect for tailgating and family dinners. It’s great to share, and it’s great for leftovers the next day!”
Duke Cannon Tactical Scrubber Set and Soap Duo
“We first added Duke Cannon to the shop because Trev loves it so much. After trying it, I have to say that I am too.”
“I love the brand, I love the packaging, and I love the scents.”
A Classic Leather Dopp Kit
“Having a good dopp kit — one that will last a while — is a must. I find it so easy to keep it by my sink, and whenever I need to travel, I can easily zip it up and take it on the go.”
“If it’s well-made, I’m not picky. But this one is pretty cool because it can be customized.”
Bagelista Bake at Home Bagels Variety Pack
“The Bagleista Bagles are perfect for breakfast, snack, or even the foundation for the best sandwich of the week!”
“It’s so easy to make, it’s fresh, and it smells great. Not to mention, it tastes awesome.”
Multi-Device Charging Station
“If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s a bunch of cords lying around. So something like this multi-device charging station is a lifesaver.”
“This one is great for an iPhone, a watch and AirPods.”
Byers’ Choice Gingerbread Santa Claus
“I’ve worked with Byers’ Choice for years. They’re the best people. They are a family business that has been around for decades, so you know that what you are getting is high-quality.”
“I love the fact that they are American-made and hand-crafted. Plus, Byers Choice is always a great addition to my constantly growing Santa collection.”
Mueller Santa Claus with Bell Incense Smoker
“Speaking of my Santa collection, the Santa Claus Incense Smoker is one of my favorite finds.”
“I love the simplicity, the bit of whimsy, and the fact that it’s handcrafted. It’s a great way to spice up the room with a bit of incense, which I’ve loved since college.”
“I don’t know if Jill has told you, but I’m big into golfing. It’s my escape, and something I’ve always enjoyed.”
“If you have a golfer in your life, I’m sure they’d love this golf utility tool kit. It includes a place for keys, headphones and a pencil, along with tees, a club cleaning tool, tees, and a multi-tool.”
“You can’t tell me the guy in your life doesn’t like sweets. But Sweeteez takes cookies, brownies, and rice crispies to a whole new level… and they’re dangerously good.”
“I really enjoy all of the offerings we have in the shop, but if you’re gifting for someone who’s never tried the brand, I recommend the ‘Baker’s Dozen.'”
I am thankful to have Doug in my life, and I hope you all can see why I love him so much. Happy Birthday, Doug!
From my home to yours,
Jill
