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Happy Happy Birthday to my wonderful big brother, Adam! I cannot believe how time is just going. “Time goes by so fast,” is not just a phrase I hear old people saying anymore. It is actually the truth. Wait, does that make me an old person? Dang. “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” (2 Peter 3:8) Anyways, my beloved big brother has now been gone from this earth, longer than I even knew him. Can you believe that? I was almost 13 when he died, and this year will mark 14 years he has been gone. That is mind blowing. My memories of him are still clear as day, and I think about him often. I think about when he backed into my piano teacher’s plant bed, and bought me ice cream so I would not tell mom and dad. I think about when I was lost at a ski resort, and ran and cried in his arms when I found him. I think about the hundreds of hours in my life I spent watching his baseball games and wrestling matches. I think about all the girls at the Algona swimming pool that would beg me to put in a good word with my “cute” brother. I think about how he would trick me into going upstairs to “help mom” so he could take the TV remote from me. I think about the look on his face when I would retaliate by standing in front of the TV naked to get the remote back. And I often think about what life would be like today with him still here. I always tell Steven how much he would have loved Adam, because he loves me, and I am pretty much the female version of him! When my big brother was called home to Jesus I was about to enter middle school, I had a mouth full of braces, and was at least a head taller than all of my peers in school. Since he’s been gone I have graduated from college, had my first math teaching position, gotten married, lived overseas, and had a beautiful baby girl. Although I am still a head taller than most of my peers, I cannot believe how much life has changed without him here. #HappyBirthday
Our little family has made the move to St. Louis, and have begun to get all settled. Steven is LOVING his new job at Coke, and I am enjoying all the precious moments with my caramel nugget. Lately, I have been thinking about Adam nonstop. With all this time I am spending with my Ellery girl, I just so deeply wish she could have a relationship with her Uncle Adam. I always make it a point to show her lots of pictures of family members, and he is no exception. I know if Adam was still here he would have the most amazing God-fearing wife. He would also have precious children, and certainly be “that” uncle which all the cousins get most excited to go see! #MovesToStLouie
Everyone that knew Adam loved Adam. He truly embodied the joy of the Lord, and will forever be my hero and role model in life. “A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume. And the day you die is better than the day you are born.” (Ecclesiastes 7:1) My parents must have so much pride knowing they raised such an amazing man, who impacted so many lives in his short time here. I have always known there is no greater loss then the loss of a child. I knew my parents suffered the sourest lemon life has to offer. Now that I have a daughter of my own, I have a whole new perspective and sympathy for the loss they have suffered. I cannot, and will not, even begin to fathom the pain they endured through his death. The strength they showed my other brother, Paul, and I in that time is a strength that only God could have provided. I distinctly remember my dad, my mom, Paul, and I sleeping on our living room floor on July 2, 2003 the night he died. Nobody knew what to say, what to do, or what was even happening. I think we all expected to eventually wake up from this nightmare we seemed to be living. The next few weeks we were flooded with people expressing their condolences and grieving alongside of us. We had enough food brought to the house to feed a small country. It is tragic events like this in which believers typically follow one of two paths; stray away entirely from God, or draw nearer then you have ever been. My parents chose the latter. I did not. #AlwaysChooseJesus
I remember feeling extremely resentful towards God, and not understanding how He could do such a horrible thing to our family. I did not stop believing in God, but I did stop believing in God’s goodness. It was not until nearly eight years after Adam’s death that I truly encountered the love of God, and His never failing grace. “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) Once I had a relationship of my own with Jesus, I began to understand Him in a new way. Our God has given us choice in life. He has given us free will. God did not take my brother away from our family. He did not desire for my family to experience the pain we did. Adam chose to drive without a seatbelt, and Adam chose to drive while tired. His tragic loss, is because of poor 18 year old boy driving judgement, and simply a horrible accident. Thankfully, the God we serve does choose to take every situation, to bring goodness out of it. Countless people have decided to give their lives to Christ through the loss of my incredible brother, Adam. That in itself is something I know Adam would be thrilled over. My parents have counseled, prayed with, and helped numerous parents who have gone through similar tragedies as well. They have also raised so much awareness to safe driving for teenagers, given college scholarships in Adam’s name, and helped Adam’s legacy to continue on long after his passing. I know personally I too have met, and prayed with many others dealing with the loss of a sibling. God is incredible that way. He never wants us to go through something alone, and always brings the right people into our lives at just the right time. #HisLoveNeverFails
I have learned a lot from Adam’s death. First of all, it is okay to talk about those who are gone. It can be awkward, and make people uncomfortable to speak about loss, but there is something healing and refreshing about reminiscing about people we love. Next, I have learned how short life is. Tomorrow is not guaranteed for anybody, so we have to live everyday like it could be our last. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Finally, we must choose to make the most of every situation. Life is not perfect, and there will be hard times. If we choose to allow the hard times to run our lives we will never enjoy our short time here, and instead spend all of our time being victims to our circumstances. I am not saying we should pretend the hard times don’t exist (see the first thing I learned), rather allow it to build our character, mold us into who we are, and use it as an opportunity to empathize with people in similar situations. If my parents became victims to the loss of their son, they would never have fully enjoyed all the wonderful memories they have made with Paul and I. With a victim mentality you may miss out on opportunities that God has put in front of you because you are so busy looking back, that you never look forward. Besides all of this, I know Adam would want us to make the most of our lives! He would want us to bring joy to those around us, and share the love of Christ with everyone we meet. #SpreadTheJoy
I would love for Ellery to meet her Uncle Adam, I would love for Steven to meet my beloved brother, and not a day goes by where I don’t imagine what life would be like today with him still here. However, I know his life impacted many and his legacy still continues to go on. I know I have gone through a great loss, and will have wisdom to share with others that go through similar tragedies. And best of all, I know Ellery and Steven will get to meet him one day when we are all reunited with our Creator in Heaven. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. all these things are gone forever.” (Revelation 21:4) I am certain that Adam is the life of the party up there. I am also certain he is having a huge birthday celebration with “heavenly” cake… see what I did there? I am so thankful for the time I did have with Adam, and look forward to being reunited one day. He was an incredible human, who truly changed countless lives. So Happy Birthday to my handsome big brother! We love and miss you down here, and I cannot wait to introduce you to my amazing husband and precious baby girl. #UntilWeMeetAgain
Thanks for reading my blog! I hope it speaks to you, and encourages you! If you haven’t already, subscribe below! Read. Subscribe. Share. #JillBobBlog
[happy] BIRTHDAY Happy Happy Birthday to my wonderful big brother, Adam! I cannot believe how time is just going.
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So I’m a mom now. I wear skinny jeans with new balance tennis shoes, my hair usually smells like spit up, and three straight hours of sleep is considered a great night. Our little caramel macchiato, Ellery Grace, came into this world on November 11, 2016. She is beyond precious, and we are totally obsessed with her. Everyday I get to play dress up with my real life barbie doll, cuddle with her perfectly soft skin, and smother her with kisses. Steven and I decided on the name Ellery because it means joy and happiness, and it is a very unique name just like our very unique munchkin. We chose Grace because she is a symbol of God’s grace over Steven and I’s relationship. “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) We were so broken, and His grace restored us to a place we didn’t even know was possible. #MommySwag
Being a mom is the most difficult and most exhausting thing I have ever done. Yet simultaneously the greatest and most rewarding role I could ever ask for. You know what is so weird, I literally still cannot grasp the fact that I am a mom. I always thought you had to be super mature and like have your stuff together to have babies. But apparently not. “Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.” (1 Corinthians 14:20) Anyways, I had no idea my heart was capable of a love so great. Then each day I wake up (usually three or so times in the night) I look at my incredible chocolate husband, and perfect little caramel baby girl then to my surprise my love grows even larger for my precious family of three. #NoSleep
Babies truly are the greatest miracle from God. “But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace. Then it pleased him.” (Galatians 1:15) The way a woman’s body adapts to, and perfectly nourishes a tiny human is just another one of God’s unfathomably beautiful designs. Of course there is that whole thing with labor being painful, thanks a lot Eve! Also, you know going from a skinny 20 something to a slight muffin top 20 something. Of course after the pain, but still chubby, the munchkins come into this big world and the pain is entirely forgotten. I would say the weight is entirely forgotten too, but then you try and put on your old jeans, and then you quickly remember the last nine months you justified every bowl of ice cream with “I’m eating for two.” Then miraculously, a woman’s body creates the most nutritionally balanced food babies need to protect them, help them grow, and keep them healthy. Only the most amazing God could design something so perfect. #MuffinTops
One very late night, when baby was about a week new I sat in my rocking chair with the precious angel asleep on my chest just holding her. I thought to myself, I wish I could freeze time in this moment. I took in deep breath of the soothing scent of fresh baby, stroked her caramel butter cheeks, all while she wrapped her tiny little hand around my pointer finger. Here on my chest I can protect her from he horrors of this world, we can just hold each other and snuggle forever. Please baby, never grow up. I felt like nobody in the world could ever understand the love I had for her. Then I heard the small still voice. How much greater is God’s love for us? He could easily keep us, His children, asleep on His chest, in His presence, and protected from the horrors of the world. But how much greater love is when it is a choice. How much more proud He is of us when we choose to come to His presence, choose His identity over the worlds, and choose to love Him.“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” (Proverbs 8:17) Of course it would be easier to keep my daughter away from anything bad, but then I will be hindering her from her God given destiny, and would not be able to walk fully in my own. Easiest does not mean best. All I can do is pray to my Father who has blessed me with unfailing grace to give me wisdom in raising this beautiful daughter. Because the reality is she belongs to Him, not to me. He has simply entrusted Steven and I to raise her, a role I will not take lightly, but will have peace knowing she ultimately belongs to Him. What peace this fact brings. We do not have to parent alone. We have someone who loves Ellery far more than we can begin to imagine, guiding and protecting her all the days of her life. #JesusLovesTheLittleChildren
In these moments with my daughter (once again, I cannot believe I keep typing DAUGHTER) when my love is so great I feel like my heart will explode, I think about God’s love for us. I will do anything and everything to make sure my daughter has the best life she possibly can. Not because she thanks me everyday for feeding her. Not because she’s eternally grateful for all the dirty diapers I’ve changed. And most certainly not because someone is forcing me to. Rather, my love for her runs so deep that regardless of her response I want to provide her with all the best. God’s grace and love is available to us everyday not because He has to love us, but because His heart feels like it is going to explode with love for us! “But to each on of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (Ephesians 4:7) Everyday I am reminded of God’s goodness. He has entrusted us with one of His children, and we will raise her up in the presence of her maker. #HeartExplosion
With our tiny swirly munchkin came so many more blessings. Steven got a new job in St. Louis, MO with Coca-Cola! Our cute little fam bam will be moving there the second week of January. I got a new mom car, a Volkswagen Tiguan, to support my new balance wearing mom life in St. Louis. I’m going to be an Aunty again any day now to a cute little boy (God should entrust my brother and his wife with lots of His children because they’re amazing parents and annoyingly good looking)! “Be fruitful and multiply.” (Genesis 1:28) As we are transitioning from a difficult season, we are in awe of God’s faithfulness to our family, and relying on Him entirely to guide our family all the days ahead! #Coke
So party people, follow me on my newest adventure to Saint Louie! Follow my spit up filled, blow out wiping, mixed baby family blog as I transition from low rise skinny jeans to full fledged mom jeans. Click that FOLLOW button on the bottom of the page, share this with all of your friends, and go look at my INSTAGRAM because it is full of really cute pictures of Ellery! Okay, until next time. xoxo #JillBobBlog
[mom] JEANS So I'm a mom now. I wear skinny jeans with new balance tennis shoes, my hair usually smells like spit up, and three straight hours of sleep is considered a great night.
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[give] LIFE
Tis the season of Pumpkin Spice everything! Up until about three weeks ago, I would have been envious of all people on American soil because of their easy access to the fall splendor. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15) But life is full of unpredictability, especially in the oil business, so my chocolate truffle and I have been moved back to the US of A. A…
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Happy July! We’re more than half way through 2016 already can you believe it?! July usually means lots of BBQ’s, days at the lake, hiking, and late nights outside. However, South Africa has quite a different July. It is cold, rainy, windy, and the sun goes down by 5:30. So My typical July activities must be postponed until we are back state side! There is something very exciting about this July, Steven and I have now been married a whole year! Woo Hoo! I can officially start sharing my marriage wisdom with those around me, because obviously a year under the belt gives you all the knowledge you need. Year one of marriage is pretty much like being a 16 year old girl. You are absolutely certain you know everything in the world far better then anyone else around you could ever share. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Which we all know is total bogus. In fact, one of our favorite things to do as a couple is ask any delightful, precious, elderly couple we see for their marriage advice. It is so beautiful, and so inspiring to talk to couples who have been married for 40 plus years, and any wisdom they share is happily received. Included in that depiction of a beautiful marriage are my incredible parents, Macy and Suki. They’ve been married 33 years this August, and were the exact vision of what I wanted my marriage to resemble (I’m sorry just look at them below, they are about as cute as they come). #MarriageGoals
Anyways, this has been the absolute best year of my whole life, and I am loving the adventure marriage brings every single day. However, as any married person will tell you, especially in the first year of marriage, there has to be a pretty substantial learning curve. Given our faith and values, Steven and I did not live together prior to marriage. In fact, due to our jobs, we did not even live in the same state throughout our entire engagement. To us, blending two POLAR opposite cultures through the sacred act of marriage was not challenging enough. We wanted to take it a step further and move 10,000 miles away from everything we knew to begin our lives together as husband and wife. “Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8) Not many people start their married life with this hand of cards, but that is what makes everyone’s love story beautiful in their own way. Obviously, this is my favorite love story and I can only share from my own experiences. #thebobs718
To us, discovering how to live with one another in marriage was so exciting! That being said, I quickly discovered Steven has OCD. He cannot go to bed if the bed is not made before he gets into the bed. He cannot start cooking until the kitchen is cleaned first. If you try and set a drink on our coffee table without a coaster…. bear the wrath of the coaster police. I do count myself as blessed here though, as I too am a pretty big clean freak and am happy not to have a slob around. I also quickly learned that Steven is ALWAYS thinking. At any moment Steven will bust out some deep thought provoking question for me, as I am literally thinking how badly I want some string cheese. It is not that I am never thinking, but in a rough estimate I would say I am thinking as hard as Steven maybe 1% of the time, plus or minus 1%. Lucky for Steven, I have been nothing but an angel to live with this last year. I mean I am so fun to be around, I am housewife master at this point, and I am never sensitive to anything Steven says ever. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10) I suppose if I am being humble, maybe you could say I require slightly above average attention. Steven quickly learned about my desire for attention. Compliments, presents, being carried (tall girls like to feel tiny sometimes), dancing, and these are just a few of the things that I require on a daily basis. Otherwise, I’m pretty wonderful to live with ;). #ADD
One of the most valuable things we have ever done to strengthen our marriage was read the book “The Five Love Languages” by Gary Chapman. The book breaks down the five different ways that people receive love the best (acts of service, quality time, words of affirmation, physical touch, and gifts). Although we all enjoy all of these acts of love, we each have one or two that makes us feel the MOST loved. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” (Romans 12:9) Steven’s love languages are quality time, and acts of service. Steven feels the most loved when we can have deep meaningful conversation (not string cheese associated), dream about our future, and do all of this in our neat and tidy household. I feel most loved with words of affirmation (so feel free to leave a really nice comment at the end of this blog). When Steven tells me how proud he is of me, how beautiful I look, or what a great wife I am that is when my love tank is the most full. #whatsyourlovelanguage
All this to say, every marriage is a beautiful masterpiece brought together by our incredible God who wrote it. The issue lies when bringing two imperfect people, and put them together forever you’re bound to run into a few issues. However, the problem is when we have the idea that God created marriage for happiness. Do not get me wrong, of course marriage brings us happiness, but what if God’s intent for marriage was not for happiness, but rather for holiness? Then from our pursuit of holiness within our marriage, comes happiness. When Steven and I discovered this truth, we had to go back to what the Bible says about marriage. “For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean.” (Ephesians 5-6)Steven is to love me the way Christ loves the Church. WHAT?! That is holding men of God to a VERY high standard. Husbands pursuit is to pursue their wives the same way Christ pursued us for His Kingdom! Husbands are to have relentless love towards their wives 100% of the time. Now I know that is far easier said then done for men, especially men who are living with frustration within their marriage. But imagine if Christ had given up on us out of frustration for our lack of respect, or our lack of concern for Him? That is the commitment made in a Christian marriage, and that is the standard God is holding Christian men to. #LotsOfLove
Now do not fret men, women were not overlooked in this area. You know that awkward verse that makes Christians, and non Christians, uncomfortable? “Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.” (Colossians 3:18) Yep this is the verse that always has all the INDEPENDENT women freaking out. But ladies, when your husband is pursuing you the way Christ pursued you, wouldn’t you gladly submit to allowing your husband to lead your household. The amount of unfailing love you would feel from your husband, you would proudly trust his decisions to lead you and your family because you would know his heart, and know he longs for nothing but the best for you. This verse is not meant to put woman in their place, but it is a natural reaction we feel when we are pursued relentlessly. #Letemlead
This is not meant to say we can begin our submission once we feel our man is pursuing us in this way. Nor is it meant to say that husbands should begin loving their wives the way Christ loved the Church AFTER their wives have submitted. These are our duties as husbands and wives regardless of what the other person is/ is not doing. For it is ultimately God we answer to regarding our marriage, and these were his instructions. “All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.” (John 1:3) We have to trust and believe that God can speak to, and transform our spouse’s heart to the ways of His word. We must wake up everyday with this prayer on our tounge, “God make me the best husband/wife I can be.” Then we must follow through when He opens doors of opportunities for us to better serve and better love our spouses. #AllWeNeedIsLove
Pursuing holiness, and a holy marriage was God’s intent for man and wife. The joy and happiness is the fruit that comes from pursuing the holiness. Marriage is an incredible gift from God, and takes a tremendous amount of effort to make it work. Our marriages are meant to be a representation of how much Christ loves the church to those who do not know Him. Imagine the power that could come from a revival within Christian marriages! If instead of a 50% divorce rate within both secular AND Christian marriages there was 0% divorce rate within Christian marriages. “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:19) The outside world would clearly see there is something significant about having Christ at the center of your marriage. We must get back to God’s intent for marriage, which starts within our own household. Regardless of our culture, where we live, or what failed marriages we saw growing up this is God’s intent for marriage. Let’s be the change we want to see happen, instead of judging marriages of those who are not held to the same standard because their marriage is not made with a covenant from God. #Bethechange
So Happy 1st Anniversary to my tall, dark, and handsome chocolate drop husband! I am thrilled to watch you lead our family, and am honored at the loving way you treat me. Our future children are lucky to have a daddy that will give them a tiny glimpse into how much their heavenly father, Jesus, loves them! I love you. #MixedBabies
Remember I am still trying to become famous so please share my blog on social media, comment below, and of course hit that FOLLOW button at the bottom of this page! Love you all! xxx
[happy] HOLINESS Happy July! We're more than half way through 2016 already can you believe it?! July usually means lots of BBQ's, days at the lake, hiking, and late nights outside.
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[hate] LESS
Wow. There is a lot going on in the world right now. So much hatred, so many opinions, and quite frankly a lot of justified fear for what is going to happen next. We are having horrible acts of terrorism, mindless shootings, police brutality, dirty politicians, and that is just the beginning. Living in South Africa, my primary way of discovering what is going on in the world is USA Today alerts…
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Hello party people!! I was recently asked to write a guest blog for a teacher website that teaches kids about different countries, and different cultures. I thought maybe my loyal fans would be interested in some of the information. It is a bit different then my normal writing but I hope you enjoy. Love you my faithful fans now don’t forget to SHARE and click the FOLLOW button at the bottom of page! Cheers! xx
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Africa is pretty huge. In fact, Africa is the second largest continent both based on size and population. Therefore, as you can probably imagine there is a very wide range of culture, climate, landscape, and development across the nearly twelve million square mile place. However, for the sake of saving you from a 800 page blog let’s narrow in on one specific country on this massive continent. South Africa. #AfricaIsNotACountry
Nearly a 10,000 mile journey from the United States, South Africa is right down at the very bottom of Africa, the name maybe gives that detail away. South Africa is the 27th largest country in the world, by population, and the 25th largest country in the world by area. On the continent of Africa it is the 5th largest county by population, and the 9th largest country by area. Needless to say this is no tiny country, and has one of the most booming economies in all of Africa. As much as we all love fun economical facts about South Africa, we all have access to google for these things! However, something that may be tougher to find on google is a description that actually does the beauty, cultural depth, and history of this place justice. #GoogleIt
I live in the province, one of nine provinces, called the Western Cape. More specifically I live in the capital of the Western Cape, Cape Town. Moving from the comforts of home in the United States to Cape Town, South Africa has been the most rewarding experience of my life. Although it was difficult leaving my family, and Chipotle behind it was totally worth it! I can say without a doubt in my mind that this is THE most beautiful place I have ever seen in my entire life. You can ask anyone who has been to visit me, and I am certain they would agree. In fact, I like to think of it as America’s best kept secret. #CapeTownLove
Geographically, this place has everything! It is incredible how diverse not only the people are here but the terrain that surrounds them seems to correspond with the varying cultures that have flooded this wonderful place. You can spend an entire day lying on the soft white sands of Clifton beach, Camps Bay beach, and many other wonderful beaches. Here you can sun bathe with the disgustingly attractive locals, have a refreshing ice cream from the eager vendors that walk the beach, make new friends with the entertaining beach games, or if you dare, take a dip in the chilly Atlantic waters. Personally, my favorite beach is Boulder’s Beach. This is where the African penguins reside, and you can swim with the cute little waddlers while surrounded by stunning boulders. If you are more into watching the water then getting in, Cape Point is the place for you! Here, you can see where the Atlantic ocean meets the Indian ocean and I promise it is a sight you will never forget! After your day at the beach, drive ten minutes further to the lush greenery that surrounds the mountains and hillside terrain. There are thousands of hiking trails to choose from ranging in difficulty levels for beginner to the crazy adventurers! Then of course the most notorious mountain in South Africa, and really the world, is Table Mountain. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world there is no questioning the vast beauty of this unique mammoth of a mountain. In addition to the stunning ocean views and the majestic mountainside the Cape wine lands are just thirty minutes outside the city, and will be sure to take your breath away. The wine lands are full of rolling hills covered in beautiful grape vines evenly spread across the hills. All of this nuzzled up against the Jonkershoek mountain range. And if you’re wondering if the wine is comparable to the impeccable scenery it indeed is. Whether you are a total wine snob, or a Yellow Tail drinking college student the incredible Pinotage’s and wide variety of wines has something to offer everyone. Clearly, no matter if you’re in to whale watching, shark diving, beach lounging, wine drinking, camping, hiking, or any outdoor activity you are bound to find the perfect spot for you here in Cape Town! It is no wonder people come from all over the world to vacation in this wonderful place. #Diversity
In addition to the breath taking beauty of Cape Town, the history runs as far back as the 1600’s when the Dutch first settled the place. In the 1800’s the British came to have their say in the settling of South Africa. With clear European architecture, and development still prevent today it is no wonder so many Europeans call this place home. The beautiful white stucco with thatched roofs screams Dutch, and really leaves a lovely reminder of their piece in settling South Africa. Although, like every country, South Africa does have an ugly part of their history that is still being reconciled in todays society. From 1948 to 1994 the country had in place a system of racial segregation called an apartheid. In this time you were classified as white, colored, or black and sent to live in communities with your specific race. Coloreds, and even more so blacks, were living in less than ideal environments. They were offered little to no education, and the opportunity to improve their quality of life was very slim. Nelson Mandela, arguably one of the greatest world leaders of all time, helped piece back together the broken country that was both scared and hurt by one another. Being that it has only been a little over 20 years since the end of this shameful segregation the country is still working together to piece back their vastly economically separated country. However, in the midst of the brokenness beautiful culture and rich diversity are the result. With eleven official languages, rich local cuisine, brightly colored fabrics, mesmerizing dances, and music that you cannot help but dance to the culture here is what keeps drawing tourists back! #Reconciliation
Although this has been just a quick insight into this country, and specifically into Cape Town, I hope that it will peak your interest enough to read more, learn more, and hopefully one day take a trip out here! The beauty, the culture, and the favorable exchange rates are guaranteed to make this anyones dream destination. Thank you so much for reading my blog, if you want to learn more about my journey in South Africa follow my blog at #JillBobBlog Cheers! #ComeFindOutForYourself
[south] AFRICA Hello party people!! I was recently asked to write a guest blog for a teacher website that teaches kids about different countries, and different cultures.
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Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Valentines Day. I would like to apologize to my millions of fans for keeping you all waiting. Naturally my blog should be the highlight of all of your lives, and I have let you down at the start of 2016. Since I typically preach Christian values I am going to play the “forgive always” card, so we can move past this hiccup in our relationship.“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15) In addition, I sent you all new cars as an apology gift. It could be more of a hinderance considering the steering wheel will be on the other side of the car. Oh, and African mail is kind of hit or miss so no gaurntee you will ever see those Bentleys. Regardless, I am flattered to have so many fans and I will be sure to remember you all when I am super famous, and second best friends with Taylor Swift. #FansFromTheBegining
Oh I also would like to wish everyone a happy leap year! How exciting that we get an extra day this year! Just think, everyone is always saying, “If I just had more time.” Well here is your chance people! Twenty four extra hours you should not have planned on, so go and do all those things you have been putting off. “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” (James 4:14) That being said, since it is now March I think it is safe to assume most of us have failed our New Years Resolutions. Let’s be honest, if you have not failed at your resolution yet you probably set the standard pretty low this year. But hey who am I to judge? Loosing weight and getting fit have been my resolution for the past 18 years. This year I did break a record though… on how quickly I give up my resolution. On January 3rd I discovered if you get to Church early enough to volunteer they have delicious donuts (I never really understood the whole donut vs. doughnut argument but the first way is just easier to spell) waiting for you, and the whole diet was out the door! Plus, I am married now so for better or for worse is my motto. And remember living in South Africa you are weighed in kilograms. So number wise I’m wayyyyyy skinnier here then I am in the States so I’m calling it good! Regardless of if you have failed your resolution as well the gyms are past their peak membership recruitments, the bakeries are starting to have steady business again, and Goodwill has an influx of “gently used” work out clothing. #ResolutionFails
Anyways, life for this Real Housewife of Cape Town has taken some crazy turns the past few months (hence the delayed blogging). In addition to slaying the housewife role, I started teaching a boy math for three hours a day at his home. In Clifton. Please take a brief pause, open a separate tab and google “Clifton beach Cape Town, South Africa.” Are you back? Yes that is where I work five days a week. Directly on the beach in the most beautiful home you can imagine. I see dolphins almost daily, and sip delicious Rooibos tea while I teach my ONE wonderful student his math, or as they say here “maths.” It’s one of those things in life where people ask you, “How did you get that job?” And you literally have no reason of why you “qualify” or “deserve” the position, because you know you don’t and all you can say is Jesus. “So you will find favor and good repute In the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:4) In addition to being cute in my apron, and teaching math I am also coaching the girls basketball team at the number one academic school in South Africa. Again, Jesus. The girls are beyond precious, and so far we are undefeated! Needless to say, some of my housewife duties have temporarily been moved to the back burner while I juggle my ever so busy life. #MyLifeIsSoHard
So guess what? Turns out if you speak something into existence enough it will actually come to pass. “The tongue has the power of life and death,and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Proverbs 18:21) I have officially joined “The Real Housewives of Cape Town.” Not kidding here. I’m currently waiting for Bravo to contact me to start filming my life because it actually belongs on TV. My newest group of friends is a group of other expat wives whose husbands also work in the oil industry. Most of them do not work, and have ample amount of time to be my friend! What a relief to find other cute women, like myself, who just want to hang out, go to the beach, get their nails done, have lunch, and just be precious housewives together?! With that being said, and knowing the power behind my words, I would like to repeat that I will be on Ellen one day, Taylor Swift will be my second best friend, and my children will have beautiful blue eyes. #TheRealHousewivesOfCapeTown
Certainly you have asked yourself what the highlight of my 2016 has been so far. Is it my two jobs? Is it my housewife friends? Is it the Broncos WINNING the Super Bowl? Nope. It was my favorite people in the world coming to visit us here in Cape Town! My beautiful mother and precious father made the 10,000 mile journey over from Denver, CO to Cape Town, South Africa. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) It was such a special time, and a real joy to spend such quality time with them. We had so much fun, and I loved fulfilling the role of hostess with the mostest (whatever that means). They were thrilled to learn we weren’t living in mud huts, wearing loin cloths (much to my father’s dissapointment), and spearing our dinner each evening. In fact they quickly learned with the US Dollar to South African Rand exchange rate we actually get to live a pretty luxurious life style out here. Naturally, in true housewife fashion, I had a detailed itinerary planned out for them. Their two weeks were jam packed with the hundreds of things this incredible city has to offer. In fact, they loved their trip so much they’re considering retiring here for 3 months out of the year, and escaping the chilly Colorado winter! My dad did decide he would still sport the leather loin cloth and carry a spear regardless of his civilized surroundings. They were both in total awe of the beauty of where we live. My mom would wake up every morning, raise the blinds to our balcony, and gaze out into our stunning ocean view. Following this she would say, “I can’t believe you live here.” During their trip we went to different beaches, we went on a safari, up table mountain, swam in the ocean with the African penguins, hiked lions head (not literally a lion’s head), saw some incredible views, tasted impeccible wines, and ate delicious food! Each day my parents would rave how spectacular our day was, and how they could not believe we get to live here! It came to a point where they said how awesome this place was so much that their words no longer phased me. But of course, God had something to say about it. #WhereILiveIsBetterThanWhereYouLive
One of my New Years Resolutions was to read the “Chronological One Year Bible.” In case you can’t tell by the name of the Bible, it is a Bible reading plan to read the Bible chronologically in one year. Yes, I failed this resolution too. I got to Leviticus. “If there is in the skin of one’s body a boil and it heals, and in the place of the boil there comes a white swelling or a reddish-white spot, then it shall be shown to the priest. And the priest shall look, and if it appears deeper than the skin and its hair has turned white, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean.” – Leviticus 13:18-19 I think that’s all I need to say. But have no fear, I am back on track! Anyways, as I read through the first few stories of the Bible the story of Moses leading the people out of Egypt really got me excited, and then took a turn and got me really frustrated. I have read the story hundreds of times, but that is the beauty of staying in God’s word, it always speaks something different each time you read it. This time reading through the story I was so in awe of the miracles God was preforming through Moses. I mean let’s talk about what is going on here. This bearded dude with a speech impediment some how (only God) convinced all these people to follow him out of Egypt, the only life they have ever known. Sure enough everyone starts following him. Shortly after they are leaving Egypt the Egyptians start angrily chasing all of them. Think about that! Egyptians seem like they would be tatted up, massive, muscley shirtless dudes who are really scary looking, and probably yelling mean things while they charge towards you and EVERY SINGLE HUMAN you have ever known. If that is not scary enough, the bearded dude with the staff leading you, leads you to freaking dead end. Like what do you have to say about that Moses? You led us to the sea?! What are we supposed to swim?! It would be pretty hard not to be livid with Moses as you wait for your death to catch you. But as we know God said otherwise. Then suddenly your bearded leader raises his hands and THE SEA begins to part perfectly for you to walk through on DRY GROUND. “Then Moses raised his hand over the sea, and the LORD opened up a path through the water with a strong east wind. The wind blew all that night, turning the seabed into dry land.” (Exodus 14:21) Not only did God part the sea for you to walk through but He made sure the ground was dry! No muddy sandals for this bunch! And just in the nick of time (sorry but what does that phrase actually mean?)! All of everyone you know, and have ever known is with you, and your enemy, the one who has been holding you in bondage for hundreds of years, begins to aggressively pursue you. An incredible miracle happens where you walk THROUGH a sea, but as soon as you are safe the sea walls crash over the ones who have caused everyone you know endless pain and suffering. That is the God we serve! Doesn’t that make you want to get up and run around your room quickly?! Now once the Israelites have made it to the other side they certainly fear God and know for sure that this Moses guy must be His beloved servant. Everyone sings songs of praise (say that 10 times fast) unto the Lord, and simply rejoice in the incredible journey this incredible God has just led them through.You would think this miracle alone, not even to mention the many miracles that occurred before this one in the journey out of Egypt, would be enough for the Israelites to realize the calling, and the favor, God had on their lives. However, just a few chapters later the Israelites begin to ask why Moses ever led them out of Egypt. They are complaining how they do not have food or water, and doubting their destiny outside of the slavery they were just held captive to for hundreds of years. Here is where I became so frustrated. Like did you literally already forget?! Umm hello?! Remember when you saw an Octopus chilling on the wall next to you as you WALKED THROUGH THE SEA?! Do you think the same God that freed you from a life of slavery in Egypt is going to let you die of starvation? I don’t think so. I just remember reading this, and being so angry with the Israelites. How could they be so ungrateful? How could they have forgotten those incredible things that just happened to them? How can God be so loving to people that suck so much? Even after His people were completely faithless on how they were going to receive food, He makes it rain mana from Heaven providing more food then their hearts desired. He is so patient. He is so kind.#DestinyGoals
Oh Jesus. He’s always teaching me about myself through my frustrations with people I think I am better then. Between the bearded dude with the lisp (Moses), and my parents unending awe for where we live, I was reminded of how similar I actually am to those silly Israelites. My faith easily becomes short sighted. I get so caught up in what is happening in my life right now that I forget the incredible journey that even led me to this point. Not to mention, the unfathomable things God has in store for me in the future. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) Amazing things will happen to me, or long desired prayer requests come to pass and I am thrilled with what God is doing! I get on this spiritual high and have total faith in anything and everything God wants to do in my life. But then life just keeps going. I come down from my spiritual high and begin to think “logistically” about how my life is going to pan out. When has God ever moved logistically? When has God ever been predictable? Never. God has ordained each and every one of His children with an incredible destiny. He puts desires in hearts not just to be “dreams” for the future, but for us to fulfill those dreams for the glory of His Kingdom. The same God that has endlessly proven Himself to us in the past in the same God who is going to continue to provide for us in the future. When we begin to doubt where God is in our current situation we have to remember where He has brought us from in past situations. When we begin to doubt the purpose of our lives, we have to remember the destiny that God has written into each of our plans. Our total faith must be in His everlasting love for us. We have to chase after Him so fearlessly that we inevitably fulfill what He has called us all along. When we are questioning where is our mana from Heaven, we have to remember that the same God that led us out of bondage and through the Red Sea, is the same God that is not going to let circumstances be an excuse for an unfulfilled destiny. #WalkThroughTheOcean
All that to say each and everyday I am learning to appreciate the little things around me. I am excited to experience each day as an opportunity to trust in God’s incredible plan. When I remember my “Red Sea” journey, and worry less about the “mana” that I need I recognize more of what God is doing and has done in my life. I am beyond grateful to live in the most beautiful country in the world, have the best family ever, be married to the most amazing man, and best of all be a child of the most incredible God. So let us all learn from the bearded guy with the staff that turns into a snake, and from my parents sheer awe of my surroundings. Our God is awesome. He loves you so much more then you can ever fathom, and no circumstance is too big for Him to part the “Red Sea” in your life. #WaitingOnMana
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[WHAT-THE] mana Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Valentines Day. I would like to apologize to my millions of fans for keeping you all waiting.
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