I have lived a full thirty years. Thirty years full of fumbles and mistakes. Thirty years of accidents and apologies. Thirty years of learning.
These are the trivial bits of thirty years of learning. Some of these lessons it took me three minutes to learn, others… about 29 years and 347 days.
If the word ‘you’ ever appears in this list of learning, please rest assured that I am referring to myself. I’m still learning… you, surely, are good as gold.
These Thirty-ish Things:
Go to college. Just go. It’s where you’ll learn how to be, how not to be, and how to set booby traps in the shower so your roommate stops using your expensive shampoo.
Learn how to apologize sincerely.
Eye contact is major. Get into it.
Talking crap about people sometimes feels good (just admit it), but tastes bad. It’s the opposite of eating McDonald’s.
If it hurts, don’t wear it. At some point the pain will show.
Learn how to wear lipstick and werk.
The day you look dumb in the grocery store at 7:19 in the morning is also the day you run into that duuude you don’t want to run into, and his stupid-hot-at-7:19-in-the-morning girlfriend. Don’t worry. You’re buying kale and olive oil. At least you can cook.
Overdress, always. Unless it’s heels in a park… that doesn’t work.
(thank you for the picture above, michael.)
In every situation, consider the likelihood of skinny-dipping. Act accordingly.
Check out your hair from behind… yea… you’ve got a whole situation going on back there.
Exfoliate: your kitchen, your shower, your carpets, and your body.
Find out what color dress/shirt/lipstick makes your eyes pop. Buy a lot of it.
Never ever ever ever EVER ever ever take your shoes off in the club.
If you feel a deep need to take your shoes off in the club, walk your butt outside, get in a cab, and go home. Game over.
No one keeps secrets. Remember this when you’re telling people all your business.
Life is not fair. That fact is profoundly frustrating. My Mom taught me this… dang was she right.
Don’t wait for some dumb boy to give you closure. You give yourself closure. That’s real. Tie that mess right on up. Buy ice cream if necessary.
Sometimes it’s not fate, or a sign… but just a coincidence.
You are not inherently patient. It’s an exercise.
Learn how to do something exceptionally well. Never apologize for that. Step up.
Watch Inception as many times times as you need to. Joseph Gordon-Levitt floats and Juno flips walls… It’s just a whole thing.
Learn how to make cookies.
Frozen peas, unfrozen, can be a meal.
Kittens grow up to be cats. That’s when things get a little scary.
Don’t be that girl, in any and all situations. Unless that girl is the awesome girl passing the boards… then you should totally be that girl. I’m talking to you Andrea.
If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.
Ladies should be kinder to one another. Teamwork, ladies!
Never be early for a party… unless you plan on helping. By helping I mean, pouring tequila shots.
Being fourteen sucks and there’s absolutely no way around it.
Being thirty one does not suck unless you think it sucks for some reason.
Sometimes you go to restaurants and you just don’t get what you want. It’s cool, just get ice cream on the way home.
Over-tip.
Just admit that you’re watching My Big American Gypsy Wedding because you’re completely obsessed and you really need to talk about it with someone.
God is good even when you doubt that God is good.
Happy Birthday to me. Happy Living to you. I love you dearly, I really do.
Kathryn Mader
I’m so glad you posted your birthday articles. They are all super! You are one-of-a-kind, in the BEST way!
Natalie
I love this post! I’m turning 30 soon and these are great! Love you sense of humor and wit ;)
Brittany
Just reading this after reading your current birthday post (love that put links to other words by the way). I have always been inspired by your words. I am a longtime podcast listener and recent blog reader (I know, the order is weird) and I just want to say as a young 20 something figuring it out, your wisdom and grace continue to guide me everyday. Anyways, the point of this is not to tell you how fabulous you are (though you are) but to ask about the second to last line “God is good even when you doubt that God is god.” Is that a typo? Either way I kind of think it works brilliantly but just wanted to know your take :)
joythebaker
thank you for finding my typo! i really appreciate your words!
Ayo
I AM LATE BUT Happy BIRTHDAY 2 U!! I will be 30 august 11 and I NEEDED TO SEE THAT!!
Stephanie McPeak
Hi,
I’m a little late on this one but I stumbled across your blog just today and was immediately absorbed in it. Particularly, this post. I recently turned 32 so am at a similar place in my life. Love, love, loved this and found it to be one of the most relatable statements on women our age that I’ve seen. XOXO
Nikki
I wanna be you when i grow up. I’ve got a few years before i hit 30 but everything you said sounds perfect for me.
” God is good even when you doubt that God is god.” Is my new favorite saying, and is exactly what i needed to here right now.
Thanks:)
Ali Berry
So. 13 days ago, I decided to say peace out to my blog. Pow. Bam. Boom. Over a year had passed since I last posted and who was I kidding? The baking fever had long since subsided. For that year, I took a break from reading food-related blogs (yours included) while my right brain sort of wandered around in limbo, waiting for that operatic kick to bring my creativity back to life.
Something in the air…the water…the shitty (but free!) work coffee urged me to visit your blog today. I finished up the work on my desk, cozied up to the monitor with my mug of terrible coffee and did some catching up.
Suddenly, I’m feeling motivated. DAMN motivated.
Thanks.
ruby portienne
Joy, you wrote:
“Ladies should be kinder to one another. Teamwork, ladies!” -You should follow your own advice
I find it CATTY that you wrote: “Check out your hair from behind… yea… you’ve got a whole situation going on back there” – Who cares! Maybe they want their hair that way!
“If you feel a deep need to take your shoes off in the club, walk your butt outside, get in a cab, and go home. Game over” – Who cares! Maybe they’re having fun! You should too!
“If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.” – I believe being nice to girls also means don’t talk shit….i’m just sayin’ too!
joythebaker
you clearly don’t understand what’s going on here. i’m talking about MYSELF in all of these situations.
Jeanine
“Don’t wait for some dumb boy to give you closure. You give yourself closure. That’s real. Tie that mess right on up. Buy ice cream if necessary.”
Thank you – I needed to read this. <3
Laura
hey
I’m from Germany and I love your Blog. It’s such an amazing list for your 30th birthday. It made me think about my life and what I’ve learned already and what I will learn. Im 16 btw so there are so much things coming and hope when I’m 30 I can tell and teach my friends (maybe my children ;) ?) what is important in life, such as you did today :).
I wish you a Happy belated Birthday, even I’m a little late, because I’ve recently discovered your blog. It is amazing if I haven’t yet mentioned ;). I love cooking and especially baking and you have got such great recipes. Tried some and they are really tasty. OMG, I’m in heaven ;)
Greetings from Germany, Laura :):)
EJ
What a great read ….. Thanks Joy . So witty, wise and sweet.
Agus
“Check out your hair from behind… yea… you’ve got a whole situation going on back there.” Omg! that make my day lol
Happy birthday!!!
mary beth
oh my gosh! just read this list and laughed my socks off. you really got a lot of things right…and I’m sure I’ll agree even more when I hit thirty. :)
Amy @Macncheesenpeas
Joy. you are just so wise. Keep being you, please! IThe world needs more yous.
Cookie and Kate
You’re a wise one, Joy. Smart and funny, too. Hope year 31 is the best yet for you!
shalan @ the long road
So insightful, as usual. Love ya, Joy! Happy, happy birthday.
xo,
Shalan
Prexiousbl
First of all,
a BIG, HEATY hug and a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY all the way from NYC to you..
This was just so wonderful bc I know this was from the deepest part of your heart..
When you are real the way you are, people like us can connect with you..there is freedom in truth!
I hope your 30s are just so fabulous Joy.. I hope you realize even more how amazing and truly AWESOME God is and that he really does have the BEST plans for you.
I thank God for you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
ali
Girlfran that was awesome. way to be a girl’s girl.
JenMarie
Happy BIrthday, Chica! I’m proud to *blog* know you! :)
Darcy @ Message in a Mason Jar
ALL of this, but especially…consider skinny-dipping, never arrive early for a party unless you plan on helping, and don’t wait on a dumb boy to give you closure. Great list. :)
Callie
I love how witty and cute your posts are! This list completely made my Monday (I was a bit behind on my Google Reader). Happy birthday, and thank you for making my day that much better.
Jane Lee (@butteredupJL)
I love that dumb boy closure one, it made me smile. Thanks for your words of 30-year old wisdom!
Jessica W
Happy Birthday! Love you and your take on life! Thanks for sharing it with the rest of us!
Anna {dear friend}
happy 31, Joy!
You are amazing!
Amritha
Happy Birthday and Thank you! Loved reading through! I turned 31 as well this May! tee hee…! Here’s to many more!
Emily
Happy birthday! Love your list of things. :)
Ellen
This post is chock full o’ truth. Thanks, Joy. :-)
Connie the Cookie Monster
i love this post! thanks for all the years of life lessons!
my favourite one this year: give yourself closure.
i dated a guy two years ago and im still not completely over him! dumb right? but im slowly starting to push him out of my mind. he’s wasted enough of my time already.
joy, you’re rocking being 30
Courtney @ Bake. Eat. Repeat.
This made my heart happy. “Learn how to do something exceptionally well. Never apologize for that.” Needed that today. Thanks for the words of wisdom. And the chuckles…can always use more of those too.
Jo
As usual Joy, your post left me smiling & wishing we were real life besties.
Good luck on this new year, and live it to the fullest, dear :)
Tamara
Happy Birthday! Your blog is awesome and so are you! :-)
lauen
Happy Birthday Joy!!
You are all too right about kittens turning into cats. They’re just cute enough to make it worth it :)
Claude
Dear Joy,
Keepi smiling. Wishing you another happy 30 years of learning!..
Karen
Joy, I really love this post. As a soon-to-be 21-year old, I have already encountered and learned bits of your list. The remainder of it almost feels like knowledge the future-me wishes I knew as a soon-to-be 21-year old. Instead I will take it as advice from an older sister. ;)
Happy belated birthday!!
Mandy Lea
Happy happy birthday to you, Joy!! You are Ah-may-zing!!
Melanie Mann
ps. And happy Birthday too of course!
Melanie Mann
This was wonderful.
Thank you.
<3
Terri Golden
Happy Birthday Joy. Your Mother named you perfectly!!!!
shuggies mom n taylor's gram
Hi Joy, love your blog, for a couple of months now. I’m sending this to my soon to be 21 yr old granddaughter-some life lessons to make her journey easier, more fun, and hopefully she’ll learn to cook!
Julie Ann
Joy. You are an inspiration. You make me laugh, you make me think, you make me smile. You are in a word, awesome. If you are ever in San Diego, you have an open invitation to hang out. PS – My husband can cook, well, so you can take a break and just enjoy.
Lily @ Sugar and Slice
I”m only 19 so LOVING this great advice, it sounds like you are talking straight to me! Thanks so much for sharing x
Lisa
Happy belated birthday Joy! Thank you for your blog, it never fails to brighten my day!
Heatherina
Oh, my favorite of all:
“If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.”
Jessie
Happy Birthday Joy! Heartwarming & fun list!
Ally
Thanks for making me smile during a boring day at work. Great advice and happy birthday!
Miranda
Happy Birthday! We are not far apart on birthdays either. I just turned 31 and thought I think 30 was scarier. Its good to see someone who has their stuff straight even in the scary parts of life. Love your book and blog. I’m with you on this post for sure.
Shannon
Happy Birthday, Joy !!!
Cristina
You wrote so nice…it’s always a pleasure to read your posts, but this one just feels special….happyyy birthday!!
Deb
you do have a way with words. Wonderful post! Happy Birthday to a very savvy woman!
Santresa
Happy 30th Birthday, Joy! Thank you for sharing this candid post with us.
Ro
Well said Joy!
Iris
Love your list! I soooo agree with the one about women working together. We need to stop hating on each other, ladies. Happy birthday!
Kristi @ 30 Pounds of Apples
Love your list of thoughts… honesty is beautiful (and so is ice cream, apparently!) As usual, I’ll start my day with a smile after a few minutes on your site.
jolie from Joeycake
This is one of my most favorite posts:)
You rock.
I hope one day I meet you and we become friends.
Casey @ The Baker Bee
Happy birthday, Joy. Fantastic list. :)
Suzanne
Love your list!! I think the biggest lesson I learned about the time I hit thirty was one my Mama had been trying to teach me all along: once you see, hear, read, or say something, it can’t be unseen, unheard, unread, or unsaid. These impressions will be with you for the rest of your life, so be selective about what you take in.
Ellen
Dang! I wish I was as wise as you when I was your age. You hit the nail on the head, hit it out of the park, hit a grand slam home run with that one! Sorry, watching Giants baseball on t.v. Keep on loving life one day at at time.
leslie friend
oh, joy. I just adore that list as I do you. happy happy birthday sweet girl! xx
joythebaker
you are so kind! thank you leslie! i’m so so loving the chalkboard placemats!
RealMommyChron
Happy Birthday! This is an awesome list! I just turned 31 and there are definitely some things on here that I have yet to learn. At all.
Gracias.
Roxana GreenGirl { A little bit of everything}
Happy Birthday Joy! Amazing list and you’re so right! 30’s totally rock!
Victoria
Beautiful post! Happy belated birthday! Here’s hoping this year brings you as many smiles and as much sweetness as you bring so many! Thanks for sharing your lessons and general awesomeness!
Catherine D-R
Happy birthday, Joy! I read you everyday, and just wanted to wish you the best on your birthday :-)
Esther K
Happy belated birthday Joy! Thanks for bringing so much joy to our lives with your posts and your food and your book :)
Julie
I love you Joy, keep doing what you do.
Julie
Have a great one!
Divya
Wish you a many more fabulous years of living and blogging ahead JOY :D
Chrissy
Happy Birthday, Joy! I loved these life lessons. All of them are so true. Wishing you all the best! xo
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Kloe
Happy birthday Joy :) I hope I’ll be as wonderful as you when I’m thirty-one… good living to you, too :)
The Pilot's Daughter
Loved this post. It had me laughing and smiling from ear to ear. Happy Birthday
Tiffanni
Happy Birthday Joy!
I just turned 30 two weeks ago. May birthdays are the best! I love your blog, it’s definitely in my top 5 to read; and this post just made me even more addicted. All of it is true, every bit.
Thank you for creating such a wonderful blog to read!
Allie
Happy Birthday Joy! Love your blog and love this post. You are hilarious, and reading your posts always make my day a little brighter. Thank you, and keep doing what you’re doing because you’re awesome.
PrerrnaMirchi
happy birthday joy!
Anna Z
Lovely list from a lovely person :)
Thanks for the wise words – hope you have a happy birthday!
S
What an awesome list. Why didn’t I have it when I was 16?
Happy Birthday to you!
Thank you very much there are still a few things I need to learn and I am older than you…..
Nathalie
Well,after a full year of reading your blog obsessively, I finally feel compelled to comment.
I love your blog-you are lovely in so many ways.
So, Happy Birthday to you and thank you for the list of things I feel I ought to know already at this point in my life,but for one reason or another I often forget.
ezzie
loved this post! my day will be great now, thanks to you (: happy birthday joy!
Crystal
great post! those tips made me laugh (because they are oh-so-true!). hope you had a wonderful birthday. love your blog even though i suck at baking.
Ileana Jacolow
Hi Joy,
Happy Birthday. Love your posts. They are really uplifting.
Wait till you hit 40! It’s even better.
terri
oh my gosh. i smiled at each one of these. soooo true. thanks for sharing and giving me an eye opener on this early tuesday morning. i dont know which one is my fav……but you nailed ALL of them. so many times we are guilty of commiting these ‘crimes’…..and you can never take back words, actions, etc. happy life to you! xo
Kelley
Happy Birthday, Joy! Very good life lessons – youngsters take heed. I love the My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding series!
culinarystorm
Happy birthday Joy.
Many more wonderful, wonderful years to you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being such an inspiration.
Legally Delish
Fabulous list. Fantastic blog. Hope you had an outstanding birthday!
delaney @ heartbreak pie
awesome
what katie's baking
oh yeah… and happy birthday! :)
what katie's baking
you’re my favorite. these are awesome.
“If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.” HA so true.. girls piss me off when they say that.. every girl that says it is, in fact, a girl… so they shouldn’t be hatin’
Elizabeth
Love this! And we share a birthday…Happy Birthday!
vanessalillian
Happy birthday Joy :) I’m only about seven weeks off my own, and hopefully in those seven weeks I come close to learning some important lessons to share, cos sometimes it just feels like I’m banging my head against a wall!
Anna @ the shady pine
I loved reading every word of this post. Happy 30th and happy lessons learnt….you earned each one no doubt :)
Melby
“Because time itself is like a spiral, something special happens on your birthday each year: The same energy that God invested in you at birth is present once again.”
– Menachem Mendel Schneerson
Kim M
Happy birthday, Joy!! I am so glad you are in the world and that you choose to share your life with all of us. Hope you enjoyed your special weekend.
Anne's Kitchen
I think you should go to schools and be an inspirational speaker, inspiring kids to reach for the sky and believe that they can achieve anything! You sure did!
Carrie
Happy Birthday JOY! I adore your blog and podcasts and I make things all the time from your new book! Have a great birthday weekend :).
Marilyn
Happy happy happy birthday joy :)
Maryanne
Happy happy birthday, Joy! Great words of wisdom–makes me can’t wait until I turn 30
Grace Ann
Happy Birthday Joy! I adore your blog soooo much! I really enjoy reading what you write and trying out the different recipes you post. You are hilarious and fun and your kitten is awesome! Stay you!!! & Be Happy!!!
Lynne @ 365 Days of Baking
What a wonderful list!! Happy Birthday, Joy!!!
I can’t wait to show this to my 20 and 18 year old daughters. I hope your birthday was amazing!!! xoxox
Clara
Happy birthday, Joy! This is an awesome list- great tips for the rest of my 20s! xo
Cecilia
amazing list!
love love love!
so happy to finally join the ranks amongst the 30 and fabulous! :)
Jamie K
Happy Birthday! I just turned 30 recently and I’ve found that it’s calmer and more content… at least in my internal world, the outside stressful stuff still exists. Maybe I’m actually a tiny bit wiser! I love your list though, it reminds me of all the learning I have left to do. :)
Alice
Happy birthday! And you got it so right with this list! One should always overdress and ice-cream really is the solution almost every time.
But I would add; never ever ever ever take off your shoes in a club, not even when you take your shirt off, and particularly not when it’s a foam party. Never. Instead: always have flats with you if wearing heels for a night out.
I’m turning 24 this year, still time to learn how to be patient.
Tori (@eatori)
Happy birthday Joy! xxx
Nina
Hell YEAAAAHHHH!
That is so right! You are so right in all your points.
I’m 31 now and the thing with overdressing is one I have learned too and the shit with the hot looking dude and his hoter girlfriend toooo.
LOVE your blog!
Go for gold!
Nina
Lucia
Happy Birthday Joy. Be always proudly yourself: you’re gorgeous!
Danny
Happy birthday! I am on my way to 30. I wish I could write something good like u at that time.
Caral from SoCal
Happy, Happy Birthday…and the next 30 will be EVEN better. I promise! :)
MJ
Yep – God is good and I was just doubting that God was God – dang girl…
Grace (Graceful Eats)
Happy Birthday, dear Joy! I love your blog, your funny and fresh voice, and your sheer awesomeness. Oh, and your recipes are pretty stellar also. Fabulous list – thanks for sharing what you’ve learned. :)
I graduated high school yesterday (I was homeschooled), and I picked “Everybody” by Ingrid Michaelson for my slideshow song after falling in love with it from your cookbook video. Thank you for spreading joy, butter, and love with your cooking. <3
joythebaker
i love this! happy graduation!!
Salee
Happy happy Birthday joy!!!!
I really really really love your site.
*Always think positive all the time…
:D
allegra
happy happy birthday! truly great list. i enjoyed the skinny dipping one, cause you’re so right…i have failed to act accordingly a few noteworthy times. sigh.
Taylor
I read your blog everyday and never comment because I figure you have enough reading on your To-Do list these days (plus, I seem to always figure out just what witty thing to say post-Submit button). But I had to make an exception for this amazing list of Things Learned in 30 years. It’s funny, sweet and culturally relevant with just the right drizzle of profundity. Well done! Clearly you’ve learned how to write very well in your 30 years. Happy, happy birthday! xo
joythebaker
thank you for taking the time to leave a comment, taylor! i just love it!
Jenny
I’ve liked you since I found this blog, but now that you’ve gone Seuss I think this may be love after all! Happy Birthday and happy living to you!
Hannah
Happy birthday! And fourteen really did suck.
Suzanne M
You’ve learned a lot in your twenties – I loved the post :)
But the best is yet to come!
joythebaker
preach!
Tegan
Love this list.
Frozen peas can also be a meal frozen. My mum in the good old days used to give us a cup full of frozen peas to keep us from snacking before dinner – amaaze – . While talking frozen – frozen bananas just as they are as a snack are also amaze.
P.S Happy Birthday!
Jessica Folliett
Happy birthday Joy! You are such an inspiration, oh and you saved my ass with your cookbook and blueberry muffin recipe. My website (blog) is currently under construction and should be up and running soon, so please don’t go there yet. Keep your life lessons and inspiration coming!
chris
happy birthday…love the wisdom.
made brown butter blueberry muffins this morning…they were devine!
anne
i love this! happy birthday joy! so glad to have your writing in my life. here’s to another good year!
Jay
Happy Birthday clever lady!
Laura
I love your blog, but this is honestly my favorite of all your posts. Thanks for sharing the wisdom and all of your other talents. And happy, happy birthday!
Kristin @ FoodFash
Happiest of birthday days to you!
kristin eldridge photography
Yeah for you! Love the lessons. I love my 30’s. Best evah.
lynn @ the actor's diet
welcome to your 30’s! so smart already.
Christine
“God is good even when you doubt that God is god.”
That’s gold right there! Thanks for sharing. God is good indeed, just because He is God. :)
Jillian
Love this. Happy Birthday!!
Suzannah
Happy belated birthday, Joy! What a wonderful list. I hope you have the most fabulous day–you deserve it!
Jennifer
Hi Joy,
I turned 32 May 26th… just read this post. Boy did I need to hear all that! Thanks so much. I hope your birthday was lovely, and that 31 is your most awesome year yet.
All the best,
Jennifer
Laura K
Happy birthday Joy! Your writing is always inspiring, thanks for sharing it with all of us.
heather
the closure comment hit home. thank you and happy belated!
joythebaker
real.
Claudia
Happy Birthday! I’m going to have to compile at list of these for my 39th birthday this year–just to have done it, thanks! Just happened upon your site this weekend. So very happy that I’ve done so!
lacey w
Love it!!!! Happy birthday!!!
shalini
Happy Birthday! That’s a great list to have :-)
Bobby
I have tears running down my face.
Thinking how much I love you ms Wilson
Zulejka
Happy Birthday, Joy! I enjoyed your list so much! I always do, as a matter if fact. But who knows why I never write them … Maybe when I’m thirty … ;)
Also, I have to tell you, I bought your cookbook (via Book Depository) and I love it! It is one of the cutest cookbooks I’ve ever seen and possibly the funniest. I only baked brown butter cookies and some granola so far, but they were delicious! Thank you! My boyfriend is thankful too:)
sadie
Happy Birthday!
I will turn 41 later on this year. I’m not sure I could come up with a better list. You have learned well, dear Joy xx
Jess
happy birthday joy!!! You are such a nice and wonderful person (I would know! I went to a glorious book signing.) who (thus far, in my experience) has an amazing and flawless cookbook that is now my go-to birthday gift until all of my friends have it. <3
anna
joy, you are the very definition of an upper. happy birthday.
Bridget
You know, I live with a crew of MIT undergrad ladies, and I feel like all of these things apply…love it.
The happiest of birthdays, and congrats on making it to your thirtieth with your sense of humor and happiness intact! :)
Kelsey
Love this list! So true. Thank you and Happy Birthday.
Kaellen Craft
Joy you are such an inspiration and a class act! Hoping you get all the world and more! Happy Birthday!!!
Magda (@MagdasCauldron)
Happy birthday Joy. I was born in May as well. It’s really good time for birthday.
joythebaker
happy birthday to you too!
Angela
Happy Birthday Joy! Your blog is a joy to read. Aloha
chloe
heck yeah to typing up messes!
Rachel
Some of my best times have involved taking my shoes of in a club…but thats maybe because I ignored the don’t wear things that cause pain rule….nearly 40 and still learning that one
Sarah
Happy Birthday to you! :-) and thank you for a truly great post!
katy
Love this list; so much of it rings true–things I’ve learned and still need to learn.
Hope you had a happy birthday from a fellow May birthday girl! :-)
Claire Maxwell
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOY.
Wonderful list.
Kirsten W.
Really a fantastic list. Thanks for sharing it and yourself on your blog. Happy Happy Birthday!
Anonymous
This post was really touching. I started crying a little with absolutely no idea why. I hope when I get older I will be just like you and just as smart as you. :) <3
The Cuisinerd
You are a specil lady, Joy. Sincerely. To another year of magic and learning!
Emma
I hope to continue to grow to be as fabulous as you. Happy birthday!
Laura
Happy Birthday Joy! I just turned 31 this week too. Yes and YES to all the above! It was a crazy thought to think I went on that “21 Run” an entire decade ago, but so gratifying to reflect on the person I have slowly grown into since then. You and Tracy on the podcast make my heart sing! I hope you have the happiest of birthdays!
joythebaker
thank you for all the ways that you connect with us!!
Anna
Ha. Was spooning thawed frozen peas out of its package for breakfast while reading this. I came later to this idea, though, at 32.
Abigail
Happy birthday Joy. I hope it’s awesome, because you, of all people, deserve it. You bring us all so much joy (lol) and so many yummy cookies, and we all love you for it and for just being you :)
steph (whisk/spoon)
you are wise beyond your years, joy. happy birthday!
Amy of Vspot
I loved this post, and you aren’t alone, I’m addicted to both the British version and American version of my MBFGW. Even my boyfriend will watch it will me because the craziness sucks him in.
Tracy
Joy you are such an inspiration!!! I hope you had a wonderful birthday!
judith
My baby girl turns 30 this year, thanks for refreshing my memory on some of these things, they still hold true even at my age (the secrets one….) I only have one to add to this list, save your money, you’re going to need it. Life just feels calmer when you have a little stash to fall back on, but always tell yourself that you haven’t really fallen far enough to touch it.
Sandy
Joy you completely summed up being thirthy-one. I love it!
Claudia
That’s legit! Happy Birthday!
narf7
I just found this website yesterday and subscribed because it was so awesome. Happy Birthday and thanks for sharing what you have learned in the last 30 years. I have a few years on you and personally can’t actually remember some of what happened to me in the last (dooditty doo) few years so I am going to assume that your past 30 years is pretty much like mine. Reading through your list has just made me think I am somewhat cooler than I initially thought that I was! Off to buy a kitten and bake some cookies…Have a great day and eat LOTS of cake…we all want pictures…
Natalie
Hi Joy,
This is such a wonderful list. Especiallyt he “being fourteen sucks” part. I’m fifteen right now and I’m probably going say to myself, “Oh silly past me, that was the prime of my life” when I turn 31.
Plus it’s not so easy to find something that you’re truly better than others at. We can’t all be amazing like you, Joy ;)
Annie
God bless you sweetie! I hope your Birthday is filled with the people (and food, and stuff) that make you happy, and that at the end of the day you feel profoundly loved and sufficiently celebrated.
Stefania @Revitalize with Stefania
All of these things, soo true! Happy birthday!
Vickie
Happy Birthday!
Mel@TheDizzyMom
Happy birthday! I’m almost 30. I’ve learned:
It’s silly to get mad a a 2 year old
If it’s 3 am and you haven’t gone to bed yet and you have to be up at 5:30, just stay up
Coffee is a pleasurable survival tool
Express your appreciation
Sarah
Happy birthday Joy! I’ve fallen in love with your blog and food :)
Love the lessons learned, espesh the last one. I turn 30 in a week and I’m going between being excited and being utterly freaked out!
Liz @YUM at first bite
Happy Birthday! You are very wise for 30. I laughed when I read about never taking your shoes off in a club. Just did that last week and will NEVER do that again. My husband took a picture of my feet in the morning on top of my white bedding. Yeah…never ever again.
joythebaker
this is how we learn.
Margherita
First off Happy Birthday!!!!
And I agree with you on so many points…especially to overdress (or as I say to cover-up) at all times.
The days of exposed belly buttons ore over, I came into terms with such harsh reality, but that’s how it is.
Amielle
This is definitely going into one of my top ten blog posts. Ever. It’s funny and truthful and it stings just a little, but in a way that you kind of need. And I hope you had a very happy birthday and that you’ll have another wonderful year.
krista
you.
are fantastic.
fo real.
jess
Happy belated birthday!!! Hope this year is filled with awesomeness, adventures and new discoveries! Aaaaand also a little burbon ;).
Linda
Would it freak you out to know this almost 65 year old grandmother of 8 loves your blog and podcasts? Happy birthday to an amazingly talented woman. (Tracy’s MIL)
joythebaker
hi tracy’s MIL!
Jessica @ bake me away!
Happy Birthday, lady!! I hope that you are still birthdaying. Looking forward to seeing you here in a few weeks! (p.s. it’ll be super hot, but the indoor places will be blazer-friendly due to excessive A/C)
Joy in the O.V.
Many happy returns of the day from one Joy to another! Thank you for all of the great recipes… Hope that you had a fabulous birthday cake! Cheers, Joy
Nina
Loved it! Enjoy your b-day! Hope I can be as awesome, and bake and cook as well, as you in 15 years when I’m 30. Thanks for the great post! It made me smile.
Laura Silletta
MY GOODNESS! I’m watching My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding while reading this….I NEED HELP..
Have a wonderful Birthday Joy!
Thank you for making this world a brighter place!
xo
Laura
mariah
I like how you think the same things i think sometimes. Especially the comment about the back of the head hair. Sometimes I think its best to ignore that part of my head. What is going on there? What is that wave? (The eyes should matter most anyways, right? )
You are the coolest. Happy Birthday.
Heidi - Apples Under My Bed
Happy birthday, lovely. Enjoy your day! I hope you have some ridiculously good cake. I love this neat little post. live and learn. Happy living.
Heidi xo
Mitzi
I love your blog; I love this list. I love that your blog is life-affirming, gentle, and wise. Thank you.
Madison
Happy Birthday!
thank you so much for your blog you have taught me so much and my friends, boyfriend and coworkers all love every recipe I have ever made for them that I have gotten from you.
You are adorable, amazing and wonderful and I get excited every time I click on the joy the baker link on my toolbar and there is a new recipe.
Thank you and happy birthday again
Adriella
Nice!! Really liked it !! I’m turning 30 next year, a little hard to believe…but lists like yours show how much we learn troughout the years, that’s priceless…and everybody is getting old anyways. We’re all together in this same old ride.
Happy Birthday Joy. Thank you for sharing :)
Kiki
So you’ve probably already heard this a million times, but Happy Freaking Birthday Joy! You deserve a great one because:
A. Your buttermilk biscuits are a-mazing.
B. Your style is impeccable.
C. Your writing is inspiring and hilarious to read.
Thank you for writing your thoughts on being thirty. Is it weird to say that I look forward to this every year?
natalie
“God is good, even when you doubt that God is good.”
That’s a good one. A hard one. My 29 year old husband/love-of-my-life was diagnosed with cancer 3 months in to our brilliantly happy, long awaited, hardly-won marriage. We’re now at month 5. It has been a hard one for a while… it’s good to be told it by somebody else. Thanks.
joythebaker
you and your husband are in my prayers.
patty (mom)
Happy Birthday, dear Joy, from mom and dad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I I’m pretending these are candles – even if they are upside-down. Till we see you soon. Enjoy.
Jenny
happy happy birthday, joy! your blog is lovely and your life posts never cease to make me smile. love what you’re doing, keep being awesome!
Aubrey
Happy birthday, Joy!
Good tips. I’m 25 and learning. I hope I can be as awesome as you in 5 years.
The one about girls being nice to each other is good. You got me thinking…when girls say, “I don’t get along with other girls,” maybe they really just can’t be friends with someone when that someone isn’t sexually interested. And that’s…probably a problem. But I’ve probably been guilty of falling back on sexual attention/tension-style friendship. It ain’t necessarily bad, but you gotta have girlfriends too!
Valerie
Great advice as usual!
Happy birthday!! Hope it is the best year yet!
Betsy
Happy birthday, Joy! Thanks for being such an inspiration!
lydia
Thank you.
Annie
I turn 30 in three weeks, and this is the best thing I’ve ever read. I want to frame it. I was laughing out loud. I’ve read through it four times. Also, I never comment on blogs. I don’t even have anything worth saying, except that I loved it. It was just THAT good, that I had to comment just to feel like I was in on the party. Oh, and I feel the need to confess that I never cook ever, ever, ever. I’m just here for the wittiness.
joythebaker
thanks for being here and taking the time to leave a comment!
Anne
Bless you and your hilarious wisdom, Joy. Huge Happy Birthday!
Briel K.
Super happiest of birthdays to you Joy! I hope you’ve had a wonderful day and that you are celebrating with people you love! :) xoxo
Nicola
Happy birthday! I’m not a goal setter, but damn you’re inspiring! I look at the good, great and awkward parts of your life you share with the world and what it’s helped you to achieve and it makes me want to at least decide on one thing to achieve before I turn 31. Maybe my goal should be to bake everything out of your wonderful book….
Thank you and please keep sharing. xo
Katie
I love this. Posts like these just make me smile.
Happy Birthday! Hope it’s a good one.
vegiebug
I’m sure you can tell from your 300+ comments so far that this is one of your best posts to date! My personal fav: Frozen peas, unfrozen, can be a meal.
Heck yes. Add a little butter, a pinch of salt, and you’re set!
Redd H from Salted Spoon
Happy birthday, Joy! I imagine this list to the tune of a Baz Luhrman song…
Gretchen
Great list! I loved everything on here. And I totally agree with the “watch Inception as many times as you need to.” I think I read every article on the internet about the ending after I saw it the first time…
Abby
Happy Birthday, Joy!
christie elkins.
Whew. I turn 30 in two weeks. And I really need to figure out how to wear lipstick. I don’t think I’ll ever get that down pat. And you are totally right. Fourteen is the worst :) Happy birthday!
Sarah
Happy Birthday Joy! You’ve said that we inspire you many times before- but I want you to know that YOU are truly inspirational and someone I very much admire! <3
Julie
Honestly, thank you for everything you do. You are so amazing and happy. Plus anyone who can go from having kale one meal and a batch of cookies the next earns major respect in my book. As someone at age 18 and still learning, I love you
Susanne
Great insight…..I am finishing up my 30’s this year and they have been FABULOUS!
brianne
Happy happy Birthday, Joy!! Loved reading what you’ve learned in these thirty years. You’re a wise lady and a super rad baker. Much love to you!
meg
Yes and yes and yes. You have summed it up!
A very happy birthday to you, Joy — here’s to many more! (P.S.: It gets even better and better, just you wait!)
Marie
My daughter (23) proudly admits to watching My Big American Gypsy Wedding! I guess she has that lesson learned;-)
What a wonderful present you gave to us today. Being YOU and giving us a peek at your lessons you’ve learned. Even at 47 there are more than a few that are reminders to me, a number of them I plan to pass on and all I agree with!
Happy Birthday to you dear Joy and thank you to your Mom and Dad for having you! xo
Diana Livingston
Wishing you a simply fab birthday and infinite moments of joy in the future. Thank you for being you and sharing you with all of us. Love, Diana
Bev @ Bev Cooks
Happy, happy birthday! You’re so awesome.
Anna R.
Happy Birthday Joy!
30 is the new 20, I hear. :)
I love your advice/words of wisdom. If you weren’t an amazing baker, you could be a motivational speaker.
Marian (Sweetopia)
Happy Birthday!
What an eloquent post. I’m thinking this needs to find it’s way into a book, too.
xo
Gina
Happy Birthday! I loved every line in this post. Get it girl.
Much Love
Katya
Happy birthday Joy!! It seems as if these 30 years have not gone to waste which is great to hear. I think you have become an amazing blogger throughout your career in this web world. I also will ensure that I take some of those advices to the core! Much love!
Peetu
Happy Birthday (well, belated.. but still!).. Thank you thank you thank you for this amazing list! You are awesome..
Michelle
“Consider the likelihood of skinny-dipping…” Now that’s true wisdom!. ;-)
tracy
Thankyou for encouraging women to be kinder to one another! Happy birthday.
Courtney
Love your list Joy! It was funny, yet sincere. Thanks for sharing your wisdom with us. :) I especially loved the ones about closure, being 14 and that life isn’t fair. Pure truth right there.
Grubarazzi
You give US a gift… on your birthday! What a wonderful lady you are :)
Jamie
Talk away about the Gypsy Wedding shows, honey – those suck me in every time. Happy, happy birthday! The good years are still coming. = )
joythebaker
i can not even deal with that show!! brushing teeth with BLEACH!?
Joy
Happy birthday to fellow ” First name Joy”. I turned 30 a few months ago and BOY has it delivered! 30 has been the best year yet and I hope that 30 is totally awesome for you as well! Thanks for your list… It is so spot on and it has spawned a “lessons learned” email chain between me and my girlfriends today!
Leanne
Happy Birthday Joy! You are such a Joy to follow with your blog and I get a big smile everytime there is a new post! Being 30 is awesome, you will love it!
Shannon
Happy Birthday! Thanks for sharing the sweet things you’ve learned in 30 years. xo
Carly
Happy Birthday, Joy! This…
“If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.”
is too true, and this…
“In every situation, consider the likelihood of skinny-dipping. Act accordingly.” is hilarious and perfect. Thank you for your awesome recipes, funny anecdotes and sage advice. Hope you had an amazing birthday!
Amanda
Happy, happy birthday Joy! I’ll be celebrating my 29th in a few short weeks, so it’s great to hear advice from someone a little ahead of me. Thanks for your always inspiring, always real, and usually hilarious posts. I follow many food blogs (Damn that RSS reader) and yours is one of my favorites to hope for frequent new posts. And your food is super yummy. And you post about making shoes awesome with glitter. Food + glitter + humor = Awesome. Keep being awesome!
Here’s some advice for you: ENJOY your birthday. And all of the 364 days in between, if possible. ;] (And calories TOTALLY don’t count on your birthday . . . )
Urban Wife
Happy Birthday, Joy! It really is so awesome that you share your life (cooking and all that jazz) with strangers like us. Even though I feel like I could reach into my screen and give you a hug. Lol, so not to be awkward or anything but thank you. Simply, thank you.
TXgal
Happy Birthday Joy! Love the list and your blog! I turned 50 and you know what? It’s all good. Life is sweet, and true, not always fair but each day we get another chance. Embrace it all! And yea, ice cream makes a lot of stuff better….. :-) Keep on blogging. You have a LOT of fans in your corner!!!!!
Andrea
Happy Birthday Joy! Reading your blog always puts a smile on my face and makes me want to conquer the world. Even if it’s just a little part of my world :)
Griselda
Happy Birthday Joy!!!!
May You Have An INCREDIBLE One & Many Many More!!! And May ALL Your Wishes Come True Today & ALWAYS!!!
Welcome To The 30’s, Personally Speaking It’s The BEST!!! Don’t get me wrong, you’ll still do plenty of learning but even more LIVING & Knowing to ENJOY the ride.
May God Continue to Bless You Always…. ?
Griselda
btw… it wasn’t suppose to be a question mark…. it was suppose to be a heart after “May God Bless You Always!”
Sage
joy, i honestly live for these lists. the one you made a while ago for the daughter of a reader? where you listed the things you learned about life? i still live by that. you’re incredibly gifted, without coming across as conceited or preachy. that’s a good thing :) and this list i think can apply to anyone, thirty or not!
Kelli
Happy Birthday Joy! What a great list of very thoughtful things. I agree with soo many of them (especially frozen peas for dinner. Delish).
Rachel
“Sometimes you go to restaurants and you just don’t get what you want. It’s cool, just get ice cream on the way home.”
This is totally how my brain works too!
Lexi @ You, Me, & A World to See
JOY.
#real talk, real quick–I promise.
I have to tell you that this is by far the most entertaining + well-written birthday post I have ever read. Ever.
As in all your other words of wisdom, I was laughing out loud or smiling through every tidbit. Truly, this brightened my day a little. Actually a lot.
Thanks for being awesome. :)
Claudia
Happy Birthday Joy! May today bring you everything that you wish for and thank you for sharing so much of what you have already learned! You are an inspriation to us all and don’t forget it!
coffeeaddict
Being 30 is just fabulous :-)
Happy birthday!
Carol in the OC
Happy Birthday Joy! You’re still a baby… and a babe! Bake something with Biscoff and we’ll all celebrate with you!
Amanda
Happy Birthday, Joy! Hope you have a wonderful day!
Lindsey C.
HEY! Happy Birthday to YOU!
And Happy Birthday to ME tomorrow! (26)
Aren’t we awesome!!?!?!?!?
Liz
I love this list! I want to paste it on my wall. I’m really learning/thinking about making your apologies good and sincere lately, I was glad to see that on the list. I also love this one: God is good even when you doubt that God is god. So true.
Love the new blog design! (I might be totally behind the times, but I usually just view in my google reader. :) )
michelle
Happy Birthday! I love your posts and your blog. I am only about 5 months older than you! ;)
Dafna
I love your posts like this. I went back and reread one that you did like this about someone turning 21 maybe? I forgot what the occasion was. I love the “nobody keeps secrets”. So effin true!! Oh and the “if you don’t get what you want at a restaurant just get ice cream on the way home”. Hellz yes, we’ve all been there. You are hilarious, plz continue to write these types of posts. I need your advice!
Laura
Happy birthday!
Hannah M.
I hope you have a lovely birthday, Joy!
Vanessa
Happy Birthday! And no, 31 does not suck. Enjoy it and all the years to come!!
lee
You are officially the third awesome person I know whose birthday is today – so I will say the same thing to you that I said to them: “Happy birthday! Hope it’s a fabulous day and a year full of blessings!” =)
Ingvild
Hurra for deg som fyller ditt år, ja deg vil vi gratulere! (from a Norwegian birthday song :)
I hope you have had a fantastic birthday(with lots of cake)!
Best wishes
Tiffanie
Happy Birthday Joy! You are such an impressive and together lady at thirty! Have a wonderful birthday!
And, “TEAMWORK, ladies” is right. I learned this right around your age, and it has served me very well for the last ten+ (ahem) years. :)
Robin
This list is fantastic. I’m going to share it with my daughter. OK, not all of it. She’s 6.
Margaret
Happy birthday, Joy! What an inspiring post. I learn so much from you–and not only about food!
Nicole
Happy Birthday, Joy! Just love this list. My day started out by “accidentally” checking my wedding registry to see that someone purchased your book as a gift. Soooooo excited (for many reasons :)). Again, a happy 31st year to you.
Chung-Ah | Damn Delicious
Happy birthday! And what a gorgeous picture of the green walls on top.
I really enjoyed your post. I loved everything, especially the frozen peas becoming a meal part.
nancy kelly
Great list…really great.
Happy, wonderful, crazy, super happy, happy birthday Joy!
You have it all goin’ on girl Don’t ever change. You are wise and wonderful at 30 so go enjoy all the years you have ahead of you!
sarah
love it!
Katie
The line about wanting to take your shoes off in the club cracked me up! So funny. Happy birthday!
Ann P.
Such a happy time! A big congratulations to you on your 30th birthday!! We love you Joy, and hope you have the most wonderful day. Thank you for sharing your hilarious but very meaningful wisdom with us. We are so grateful for the JOY ;) that you bring into our lives with this awesome blog.
Becca - Cookie Jar Treats
Happy Birthday Joy! I bsolutely adore you (and your blog/posts). Thank you for these amazing life lessons.
Have an amazing birthday :)
ellen patton
Enjoy your birthday! Life only gets better. :)
Hey, that looks like LAX in the first photo. I remember that airport well (I grew up in Van Nuys).
Alicen
Happy Happy Happy Birthday! I am turning 30 in December. I may have to resurrect your list of 30 things and try to duplicate your efforts prior to my big day.
I made Candied Pecan Biscotti earlier this week. You are so smart to make more candied pecans than the biscotti recipe calls for. Brilliant, I tell you!
gia
Happy Birthday Miss Joy!
Thank you for sharing this awesome post.
Thank you for the drool worthy and delicious recipes (I’ve made the vegan chocolate chocolate chip cookies twice so far).
Marta
I love it! Happy Birthday! Love your blog!
Jessi
Wow, what a profound and TRUE list. Thank you for the reminders :) And a VERY happy birthday!!
xoxo J
Nina @ ambrosia
Happy Birthday, Joy!!! Loved your post, and I love your blog!
Carissa
Happy Birthday, dear Joy, Happy Birthday to you!!!! :-D
Sam H
WHY ARE YOU SO AWESOME?! I always look forward to your posts, and I just love how much joy I see in your life. Your name is so fitting! Happy birthday!
Hillary
I am definetly sharing this with my girlfriend who is turning thirty today and having an unbelievably hard time with it for some reason. I told her she has only really been an adult for a little more than 10 years and shes only just begun to live!
Jen
Happy Happy B-day Joy! Have a great day and a great weekend! You get three days to celebrate!
Always love reading your blog! Great stuff!
jessie
Happy Birthday Joy! I think you are fabulous and I hope you have the most wonderful day!
Sylvia (ChezSylvia)
Happy happy birthday!!! Love this post!
Crystal
I just turned 30 as well and COMPLETELY agree with every word! Awesome post…keepin it real! Love it….thanks :)
Amanda
Happy birthday, joy! I hope you know that I love reading your blog and love how honest you are! thanks for all the hardwork you do and have a fab birthday!
Kara
Happy Birthday Joy!
Sarah
Happy birthday Joy!
bridget {bake at 350}
Love this! Happy, happy birthday.
Mondo
“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”
-Abraham Lincoln
happy birthday, Joy!
Pip
Amazing, I am 32 and totally agree with these things you learn as you approach the wise 30s!
Kate
Happy birthday, Joy! We love you, too!
Jenny
Happy Happy Birthday Joy!!! I love what you’ve learned, as I have learned too. Feels good to get to the 30’s eh?
Cheers!
PS I think I was in NOLA when you were, you should totally do a post on the Pimm’s cup!!!! my newest summer drink!
xo
JKS
Carlee
Happy Birthday, Joy! I had a birthday this week, too!
I love all of your words of wisdom, particularly the ones about dumb boys and closure (a lesson I learned myself not too long ago), and about dancing barefoot in the club…my sister needs to read that one..
Patricia
Wish I had had someone to let me know all this as I passed into my thirties a long long time ago. All I knew was that, after thirty, one could not/should not wear mini-skirts. That interesting piece of news I read in the Phoenix Sun. How times have changed. It seems as if anything goes at any age; sometimes sadly.
Happy! Happy Birthday and thank you so much for your blog and your cookbook. I love it; it is entirely ageless.
Susie
Very cute.
I look forward to reading your blog each day. You are an inspiration.
Happy Birthday!
Barbra
Yours is my absolute fav culinary website. Thirty is wonderful…devour it!!!
Kristen M.
Happy Birthday Joy!!!!!
Marcia
Happy Birthday to you! Love this post!
Kocinera
Can I just say how much I love all of your cool advice posts? All of your points are so great and so true. This whole post is going straight to my bookmarks! :D
muddledmom
Awesome. Hope your 30s rock. They’re pretty dang great. (I’m hoping 40 is just as good!) Happy day.
jordan
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOY!!! I don’t “know” you but I “know” you and your blog is so inspiring, it makes me want to be a better person and baker myself. Thank you for sharing so much. Have an amazing 31!!
Lauryl Lane
happy birthday to you, indeed! thirty-one is going to be a damn good year! xoxo
Kelli @ The Corner Kitchen
Your posts always make me smile :) Have a killer birthday!
Kathleen @ Simplified Paleo
WOW, so many good ones. Favorites include secrets, closure, and ice cream on the way home from bad restaurants. I do that one, every time a restaurant disappoints me.
Kelly @ Creating a Family Home
Happy Birthday!! I had to laugh at the Big Fat Gypsy Wedding — I do watch it, even though I wish I didn’t, and I DO want to talk to someone about it. I’m so intrigued.
And, are those turquoise Danskos?
Hope you have a great birthday. Enjoying your recipes & blog,
Kelly
Lizzy Turner
Happy birthday, Joy! I can’t count the number of life lessons I’ve learned from reading your blog and listening to your podcast. Much love to you.
elena
A great list. Completely genuine and makes me love reading your blog all the more. My favourite: Frozen peas, unfrozen, can be a meal. True story.
http://www.randomlyhappytoday.blogspot.co.uk
susie r
Happy, happy birthday! Love your blog!
cathy
Happy Birthday, Joy! I love your list and I love you! Have the best weekend ever. :)
Megsie
Happy Birthday Joy! Your blog always makes me smile!
Ani
Happy bday Joy,
thanks for the words of wisdom, they made me laugh.
Wishing you a great birthday : )
Ani.
Diana
Happy Birthday!
I hope you have the best day ever, with lots of yummy treats and lots of love.
BTW I love your blog.
dervla @ The Curator
Happy birthday!! Huge fan of your blog and your writing.
Silvia Cisneros
Happy Birthday!!! I wish You the Best in your day and every single day that you put a smile in our faces! At on my face when I read your blog you let me with good thougts and feeling happy! And when things are bad you made my day! Felicidades desde Mexico! :D
Amanda
Joy, I love this one in particular:
God is good even when you doubt that God is god.
You’re just a year ahead of me in age (well, 9 months if we want to be technical about it) but I feel I’ll be a lucky girl if I wind up with half as much wisdom as you’ve picked up.
Happy birthday!
Leah N
Happy Birthday Joy!!
I love your list. I love your writing, I ove your positivity about life and I may just love you a lot for all those reasons.
My favourite on the list is the one about life not being fair. This is the truth! We learn it through the worst things. I lost my brother almost 4 years ago and as hard as it was to go through that, my outlook on life has never been more positive. We’re only here for a short time, we have to live it to the fullest, love people more than your heart can handle and always go for an extra scoop of ice cream. =)
Have the best birthday ever!
Kendra
Happy Birthday Joy! Thank you for sharing your life with us. All the best for an amazing year to come!
Stef
Happy birthday, Joy!
Coley Cole
*to
Carrie
Once again – THANK YOU for being your amazing self and putting into clever words things we can relate to and need to hear :) Have an amazing birthday!!
PS — thirties are totally better than twenties!!!
Coley Cole
You make me so happy to be 30. I have definitely made tons of mistakes and had to apologize so many times – even when I didn’t need too. The beauty is that I am still learning and growing.
June g.
Happy birthday! My birthday was yesterday;) I have just a couple more years on you. It only gets better! And May is an awesome month!
Stephanie
Wise words. Happy birthday to you! Also, I’m totally obsessed with My Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding (and the British version too). I’ve made the boyfriend watch it with me just so i have someone to discuss it with.
Lisa
That is some *truth*! Thanks Joy! Love your blog and your life-wisdom. Happy b-day.
Ashley @ Hudson on the Potomac
“Sometimes it’s not fate, or a sign… but just a coincidence.” So true, love this!!!
Happy Birthday, Joy!!! You are so inspiring, and wonderful, not to mention a fantastic cook! I hope you have such a fantastic day full of the people you love!
cindy
happy day joy! hurrah!
Maia
Happy Birthday Joy! And ohmygosh! I have been home sick with a cold and watching trashy television all week… I had never seen my big fat american gypsy wedding but there was a marathon on the other day and I am officially hooked! I can’t tear myself away from this craziness, I might need an intervention soon!!!
Sheila
Happy Birthday Joy!!!!! 31 is awesome, I have 37, and I miss my 31…but life is good, it gets better and better. I wish you a bunch of happiness!!!
Amylynn
i love you too joy. hope you have an amazing day! <3
Kari
I’ve never actually commented on your blog, but I’ve been following you for a while.. I loved reading this, it’s one of those posts that make you smile and feel all warm inside.. hopefully I’ll remember some of these when the situation arises.. i.e. taking heels off in the club. :) Happy birthday!
Martha Bakes
Happy Birthday Sweet Wonderful Joy!!!! Thank you for sharing your wisdom and love. Wishing you a fabulous day :) Cheers
Heidi @ Food Doodles
Happy birthday!
Vanderbilt Wife
I’ll be 30 tomorrow, so I raise a salute and cheer for all the learning we still have to do and all we have learned!
I’ll keep that in mind about the shoes in the club if I ever feel the need to haunt one again. ;)
Jessica
This list absolutely made me smile, as does your blog! Have the happiest birthday Joy! <3
Lindsey N
Happy Birthday Joy, you are fab!
Natasha
Happy Birthday, Joy! Having turned 30 recently, I can totally relate to this list. Especially the part about the dude at the grocery store at 7:19. Argh, why does that always happen?!
joythebaker
always…
Lauren
I LOVE your birthday lists. I especially love “Sometimes you go to restaurants and you just don’t get what you want. It’s cool, just get ice cream on the way home.” Happy birthday, Joy!
Erika
Welcome to 30s! I’m turning 36 this year. One more thing to add to your list. Purge you life of all your toxic friends. You don’t need to put up with those influences in your life anymore.
joythebaker
that’s real!
Sarah @ Miss CandiQuik
Love this – you are so wise ;). Also love this font for your blog. Happy Birthday, Joy!
Amy
Happy Birthday! Mine was on Sunday and I also turned 31 :) Nice post!
Whitney
Dear Joy,
I just love you. Please never stop being awesome.
Love,
Whitney <3
Pavant Garden
Well said and Happy Birthday!
Granny's Parlour
You take a bite out of life and take the time to chew on it and taste it. Pure Joy! That’s all I have to say. Happy Birthday!
amanda @ fake ginger
I don’t really know why, but I totally cried reading this. Gah, such a girl.
Happy happy happy birthday! I hope you have a fantastic day filled with lots of sugar and cute boys!
alibrarianne
Happy Birthday to You! (And my Big Fat American Gypsy Wedding is amazing, now I don’t feel like such a weirdo for thinking it’s amazing).
Sarah from 20something cupcakes
I really can’t even pick a favorite. You ROCK. Happy birthday!
Celeste
Happy, happy, happy birthday (you’re the best!)
Evelyn
Happy Birthday Joy! Love your podcast and blog. I look forward to listening to you and Tracy every week
It is an absolute must in my life, my very favorite podcast!!
Jessica Birt
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Joy! You are truly AMAZING! :)
Darcy
Happy Birthday, Joy! Hope you have a marvelous day!
And thank you for gifting us with your words/thoughts/wisdoms/humor on your own birfday. I wrote a very similar post for my 20th last year… and will very likely do the same this year. It’s always nice to reflect and see what life really has pounded into you.
Anywho, thanks again… Joy the Baker is fabulous, you are fabulous and I really needed to read this one today! HAPPY B-DAY! :)
aida mollenkamp
happy birthday, joy! these are some fan-tastic pointers, indeed!
Kendra @ My Full-Thyme Life
I love this list, Joy! Happy, Happy Birthday! My Bday was on Tuesday… 31 years young. My great-grandmother, Pearl always said, “Enjoy the age you’re at because you’ll never get it back!” :)
Gabriella
Happy birthday Joy! Mine was two days ago – and I am one year behind you – so let me add one piece of Gemini wisdom that I finally settled on this birthday: Learn to let stupid stuff go. Forgive. Take a damn deep breath, put your headphones on, take your pretty self outside and while you walk, listen to your favorite happy song as loud as you can stand. When it feels like someone has snubbed you, bake cookies and bring them over to share with the people who you know will love you no matter what. I’m pretty sure this adds years to your life. For reals. :)
Cher
Happy birthday! Thanks for this post!
Alexa
Happy Birthday!!!!!!
Tiffany
so much truth in this post, so much.
Brigette
My mother once told me when a woman turns 30 her whole perspective on life will change – “clarity”. My 30’s were filled with such wonderful learning experiences about myself, life, family, friends and career. Today I’m 41 and I’m enjoying every minute of being me. “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” ????????
God Bless You!
Elise @YumFoodieFoodie
THANKS for your wisdom dear Joy!
Julie @ Willow Bird Baking
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! This is such a wonderful list. And I’m so glad to have been able to enjoy your words over more than one birthday! Your blog is such a highlight. Thank you, Joy!
Chris
This is absolutely lovely. And so right!
I’m also about to turn 31 and feel much smarter about certain things, and still completely confused about other things.
Patience and lipstick. These are things I need to work on. Have a most delicious birthday!
Melissa @ Journey to Marvelous
Happy Birthday Joy! May the next year bring you all of the great things and happiness you deserve!
Sarah
Happy birthday, Joy! Thank you for being a daily inspiration and motivation in my life. I hope this year is blessed and FUN!
Love,
Sarah (Portland, OR)
Devan
Happiest of birthdays to you, Joy. I’ve been a loyal follower for about a year now, and your honesty has been a blessing. Keep up the good work. :)
Jessica
This post came at a great time. I was having a terrible day at work and read the “Life is not fair…” line, I had to smile. Also, My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding is a really great show haha;) Happy Birthday!
robin becker
happy birthday. thanks for including all of us in your life!! i so enjoy the variety your blog offers.
Stephie @ Eat Your Heart Out
Great list! So many true things. Especially about not removing your shoes in the club…that’s just gross.
Happy birthday!!!!! =)
Katy
Happy Birthday!! This is a stellar list. Now I’m considering doing the same thing for my birthday! (Sunday is my 21st! Crazy!)
Kasia
Happy Birthday Joy! I might have happy teared up a little reading this. Beautiful! I love your blog because it’s so real and I get it! I’m almost 30, single, and love cooking and baking too. Reading your blog makes me feel like we’re friends who get each other. Lame, haha. But I like that feeling! Keep it up!!
lauren @ the talking kitchen
love the list. happy birthday!
Rebecca@A Dusting of Sugar
What an awesome list. I’ve got 11 years til 31, but everything you said is so true. Hopefully I can be better about embracing them.
Melinda
Happy Birthday Joy!
Holly W
Happy Birthday Joy! You’re aging with such grace and wisdom. I didn’t “know” your younger self, but I feel as though you’ve picked up some key life-lessons in your 30 years. Congrats on that. You make getting older seem not too scary!
Sara {Home is Where the Cookies Are}
Aww. This is so sweet and true. Happy Birthday! It just keeps getting better!
MegsieMay
Happy Birthday!!
Being 27 myself, it’s nice to have a cool older-sister type who’s willing to share all her secrets. I don’t have a real sister, but I hope you don’t mind if I think of you as one.
A sister who’s moved far away to internet land… and who makes the best food ever.
Hope you have a great and wonderful weekend of celebrations!
Christina C
I am newish to you blog, I am in love to say the least! Your list of advice is awesome, I couldn’t have said it better myself. That line about girls saying ” they don’t really get along with other girls” so so true. Happy Birthday, hope you have an amazing year!
vera@growntocook
A very happy birthday! Funny and insightful “lessons”and great pictures, I like the first one especially. For me, birthdays are the moments when I question the direction of my life and I can get pretty awful. I hope that for you the occassion is just happy!
Sarah @ The Cyclist's Wife
Oops. And Happy Birthday!
Elizabeth
Happy Birthday! That’s a great list, and I love the top picture.
Mikel Posh
Well, happy happy birthday! It’s so great to see that life is good at thirty and all the thing one learns on its way to it. And, to tell you the truth, I’m a bit scared that I’ll be turning thirty next year…
So awesome to read you everyday.. Thanks and of course
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY… os as we say in Spanish!
Feliz Cumpleaños!
Mikel
Sarah @ The Cyclist's Wife
What a beautiful post! I love every bit of it. Welcome to being thirty-wonderful! It just keeps getting better from there (trust me, I know). ;)
Emefa Newman
Happy Birthday Joy – wishing you all you wish for yourself and then more. I love your writing – always!
Gini
Happy birthday, Joy! You are a treasure we all really really like you here in the blogosphere. Hope your day is fantabulous! :D
diane stanley
This is fabulous. I want to do this for my birthday, but I will be 60 in a few weeks and I don’t know if I can think of 60 witty, smart things to tell what I have learned in my 60 years!
Rachael Warrington
I have just found your blog recently and am enjoying getting to know you through it. I love your list…at 50 it gives me something to work on.
Happy Birthday – Make it a great one!
Kayla@PureSweet
Joy! HAPPY Birthday! Your words are wise, practical, and hilarious all in one. Thank you for sharing your life’s learnings. You are a lovely lady!
KC
Happy Birthday! We’re almost the same age, I’ll be turning the big 3-0 in July.
You have some really great points here, I truly wish people would take this list to heart.
I’ve been mistaken as one of the “those girls” only because I usually have an intense expression on my face when I’m thinking… and I seem to be always thinking. People always seem to be surprised when they find out that I’m totally nice and down-to-earth. C’est la vie.
(By the way, I think you have a small typo just above the bike/tattooed man. Is that suppose to be “Buy ice cream if necessary”?)
joythebaker
it’s called ‘bitch face’ and i totally have it too!!!
Erica
If a girls says she “just doesn’t really get along with other girls” that means that she’s probably not that nice to other girls… I’m just sayin’.
AMEN!
Nadine
Thank you so much… it´s my thirty one birthday next tuesday, and you wrote down every single thought I wasn´t able to define that clearly! Happy birthday Joy!
Being thirty one (will be) is GREAT!!!
Runner Girl
30! Awesome!…..being 46 is even better! Much to still learn, much to still love! Happy, Happy Birthday Girlfriend! Age is just a number, Grace and humility is timeless! Luckily, you have both!
Dana
In my 22 years of living I can only hope to know half as much as you’ve figured out by the time I’m 31. Congratulations on figuring out how to live life for yourself instead of others. Happy birthday!
Anna Emerson
I love this in so many ways. You’re real-talk makes me want to sit down and have a delish baked good and a cup of coffee with you. We would discuss my amazing hot pink birthday cake and swap our favorite recipes, maybe talk about our Gypsy Wedding addiction. Thanks for brightening my week :) SO excited for all the big things you’re going to rock the world with.
lots of love! <3
Jennifer
Happy Birthday Joy! You’re a wonderful inspiration for my 21 year old self, and actually have me looking forward to my 30s, after living through my 20s. Which is weird, because I feel so old at 21 already.
Laura
You are amazeballs and I wish you a happy birthday.
Your blog and podcast makes me feel okay-ish awesome!
Amanda Leigh
Happy, Happy Birthday Joy!
I loved your list. You’ve accumulated some serious wisdom in your 30-ish years and I love that it’s not the same wisdom I’ve accumulated. Thank you for sharing!
As far as My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding is concerned: Right. There. With. Ya.
Sini
I love this post. Have a wonderful day, sweetheart!
Heather
I just turned 40, and I think that this blog post is relevant decade to decade. I’m totally sharing this with all of my lady friends.
Happy Birthday. You rule. Mos’ Def.
Laurel
about that frozen pea thing — amen sister.
Annette
wow, I loved your life lessons! Very insightful you are. Apparently, Yoda I am. The husband made me watch way too much star wars this week, sorry. I just started my first blog, and I turn 35 next month, perhaps I will take a cue from you and try to post 35 things I’ve learned. I wonder if I can come up with that much wisdom. BTW, I listened to “We were not the cool girls” yesterday, I totally rocked the overalls with one strap up, and smiley face suspenders, and slap bracelets….did you have some of those?
Did you have the WALL bangs? That was hard to learn, but it was possible with enough comb action and hairspray.
Lmao.
Happy Birthday, hope it’s fabulous.
nileta
happy blessed birthday joy! thanx for the tips! you made we wiser even though i am not 31 yet :) :) :)
Devi
Happy Birthday, Joy! Loved reading this post.
Shaunna Ulrick
Love love love! :)
Alina
Happy Birthday, dearest Joy. I just bought your cookbook last weekend. I love it. You are absolutely wonderful!
lesley
this is amazing, perfect, hilarious and true…true…true!
as a newly 30 lady i laughed out loud to everything you listed. happy birthday!
fatpiginthemarket
Happy birthday! Here’s one I learned: Comment on the blogs of people you admire even when you feel kinda sheepish and dorky like you’re back in high school and you haven’t figured out what products will keep your hair from being frizzy yet. Telling someone you dig their work is good for the soul zone. Joy…I love your writing, photos, attitude, recipes and mad skills…love by the truckload, seriously.
Shushmi
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOY! Love reading all your advice! That one abt girls who ‘dont get on with other girls’ – Im totally with you there! and with the closure thing to!
Have a fantastic bday and heres hoping the next 30years are only bigger and better and brighter than before! :)
Dayna
Hi Joy,
You are super the best and I am totally adding this list to my list of life lessons that I have learned up to my ripe old age of not-actually-that-old-yet. You are so inspiring and fearless, so giving of support and love to everyone, and so cool! I only hope I have half of your attitude when I get to 30!
Cheers!
-Dayna
Winter
Joy–happy birthday! 31 is so maj!
Holly
Wonderful post! Happy Birthday!
Stephanie
Happy birthday, Joy! You rock life and thirty one will do good things for you, I just know it! Keep on the keep on. :)
Laura (Tutti Dolci)
Happiest Birthday to you, Joy! These all made me smile, but what I most needed to read was the last lesson: “God is good.” Thanks for sharing!
Jessica @ Portuguese Girl Cooks
Happy Birthday Joy!! Very good life lessons for any age!
Belle
Happy Birthday, Joy! You make me smile.
Priscilla
Happy Birthday! I love reading your blog…enjoy the next 30 years too, from someone that turned 60 TODAY!!
Priscilla
Emily D.
Happy Birthday! Thank you for continually posting recipes that make me drool all over my keyboard. Well, almost drool anyway.
(Or sometimes really drool?)
Erin R.
“Being thirty one does not suck unless you think it sucks for some reason.”
I LOVED being thirty one! Thirty was rough (cliche, embarrassing) but thirty one completely rocked.
Happy birthday.
Sherry
I’m 52…I loved my 30’s not sure about my 40’s, but now in my 50’s I’m more…myself. I can look back at decisions and stupid moments, and forgive myself, it was all part of learning and becoming more…me.
Louisa @ The Heart Beats Faster
What an amazing post :) Happy Birthday!
Anna @ hiddenponies
Happy birthday!! Congrats on another year, a beautiful blog, and a beautiful way with words.
Cate
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I really appreciate this advice right now. Especially the part about life not being fair. It sucks, it really does.
The part about being 14 makes me laugh. I spend all day with 140 14 year olds and I love them to pieces but I do not miss that age at all!
Michelle @ Brown Eyed Baker
Such a lovely post, love all of these. Happy Birthday!
VanessaK
Dear Joy,
First, Happy Birthday lovely lady Joy! I hope it’s a memorable one.
Second, you’ve got a lot to be proud of, so I hope you’re being THAT girl that knows it and celebrates it.
Third, thank you! I have never met you, but you’ve inspired a lot in me since i found your blog a lil over a year ago. You’ve given me a reason to enjoy the Internet again, you’ve introduced me to the fun that is Tracy Shutterbean, you’ve helped me find my love of baking again, you’ve given me pause many a time to think about things and remember a lesson or appreciate someone, something, or myself, and most importantly you inspire me to concentrate on bettering myself for myself rather than worrying about what others think.
Enjoy your day and I can’t wait to see what you’ll be doing this year!
Love,
Vanessa
Jenny
Happiest of days to you! Thank you for the list and your presence on the interwebs.
Traci
Happiest of happy birthdays to you…..
stelllastarlite
Great words of wisdom on your birthday! Happy, happy. Also, jewelry always fits when nothing else does!
Ayris
Happy Birthday Joy the Baker. Your blog is so inspiring and I wish you all the best in your continued success.You like totes rock as does your cinnamon roll recipe!!
Natasha Cole
Happy birthday Joy!! I’m lucky gal to share a birthday with you. Thanks for sharing your insight with humor and optimism.
joythebaker
happy birthday!
Ernestine
Happy birthday! AND yes, you made me a ranch dressing lover… homemade that is!
Ashley
Happy Birthday!!! Your advice is perfect. I think we all have a similar list of lessons learned…and it always seems to be growing. But that’s where the adventures come in, right?
I love your blog!! The gorgeous photos and wonderful, I-think-I-know-you-we-must-be-best-friends voice. And of course the amazing recipes that I keep trying and keep loving. Keep it up, lovely lady! You’re a rockstar!
beetree
Joy, you are AWESOME! :) Happy, Happy Birthday to you- here’s to a wonderful, adventurous, fruitful year for you! Thanks for sharing it with us. :)
https://underthebeetree.blogspot.com
Pam Webb
First of all Happiest of Birthdays to you! ;) Thank you for this post! I’ve forwarded this to my 25 year old daughter who is full of angst…here’s hoping! I love your sense of humor and common sense attitude. You are a good example of a fine woman.
Meg H.
It is lessons like those you’ve listed that made my 30s my best years! (although my 40s are pretty rockin’ too.) Have a super birthday! My daughters and I will bake your single girl molten chocolate cakes in your honor!
Joanne Murino
Happy Birthday! Hope it proves to be a great learning experience, otherwise, just enjoy!!
Emily
Happy Birthday, Joy! Just realized you share a birthday with my sister. I was already planning to make your chocolate pb cupcakes for her =)
Beth
Have a fabulous birthday! Thank you for this gift; it is an amazing list. :-)
Melanie
I’m turning 30 this year and I needed to read this list. Thank you. And happy birthday!
Amy
I love you and your moves so hard, Joy The Baker! Happy Birthday!
Kelsey
Thank you for this whole post… I turn 30 next year. I really didn’t think I would care, but I find the anxiety has built over this last year. This helps so much.
And thank you especially for the shoes-in-the-club advice. Good advice. Been there.
Gina @ Running to the Kitchen
Happy birthday, Joy! There’s not a single one of these that isn’t true and having just hit the 30 milestone, I can relate ;)
Catherine @weelicious
What a gorgeous post and such wise words from such a young lady! You’re the bees knees Miss Joy!
Cristina
Happy Birthday!!!! Love your blog.
Amanda - Small Home Big Start
Happy Birthday! Its was my bday yesterday and I did a post on “27 Things I’ve Learned in 27 Years”. Cleansing, I tells ya. Hopefully in a few years I’ll learn as much as you, but for now I’m happy to make some mistakes along the way :)
Katie
(I totally just sang the last line to the “happy birthday” tune!). Have the happiest of days, thanks for all you do!
megan
Happy Birthday, Joy. You are an inspiration to all bakers and bloggers!
Rachel
Happy happy happy birthday, Joy! Your list is amazing. And so true. I love the one about dumb boys and closure. I’m still working on that one. I hope you have an amazing day, filled with great moments that turn into wonderful memories!!
Crystal @ Crystal's Cozy Kitchen
Happy birthday. I hope you have a wonderful day (and year for that matter!)
level42
Happy Birthday Joy!!!
Have a wonderful day. :)
Julie
Happy birthday Joy! This post reminded me how long I’ve been reading your blog and how far we’ve come!
Rhonda35
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOY!
Wishing you a wonderful day and at least a couple more 30-year stints. Love your list and it came at the perfect time since I am currently guiding my pre-teen son through some tough social times. Life is short: eat cake!
xo
Carly
Happy birthday Joy. I wish a year filled with adventure and excitement, happiness and health, pretty cakes, fabulous shoes, and most importantly, lots of love.
Aline
happy birthday!!!!!
wonderful post!
valerie
perfect, and so true :) I like the game over comment. If only something would pop up in real life and flash a game over in our face, things would be significantly easier! HBD!
Michelle O'Connor
Happy Birthday! Are you sure you’re only 30ish? Those are some deep words of wisdom that most people haven’t figured out at 40ish! Thanks for putting a smile on my face (with a fabulous shade of lipstick of course) and here’s to many more birthdays! Cheers!
Kelsey
OMG- The part about girls who say they don’t really get along with girls, SUCH a life truth! Thanks for sharing Joy and have a very happy birthday.
Laura
So much truth in this list. Great post! Happy birthday and best wishes for the year ahead.
Andrea
Happy Birthday! Really enjoyed your list, as I have enjoyed the many meals and treats before it. Thank you!
Marissa
happy birthday joy!! 31 is a great number. enjoy it for all it’s worth!
arundati
Dearest Joy, Happy Birthday dearest girl, have a day that’s as lovely as you are, that’s one fabulous list! xx
Julie H. of Spinach and Sprinkles
Happy Birthday, Joy! ….Your wisdom is amazing in all circumstances. May God bless you and that you feel His love all stinking day long!
Sophie
Happy, happy birthday, Joy! You’ve been such an inspiration to me in the less-than-two months that I’ve been reading your blog. Keep up the good work, but more importantly, keep being you!
Bethany
Happy Birthday, Joy! Love this post! As a fellow 31-year-old I totally agree with all of it! Cheers to many more years!
Vanessa
HAPPY HAPPY B-DAY JOY!!!
Diana
Happy birthday, Joy!!
I love reading your introspective posts. The world (and the internets) is a sweeter place because you are in it. :-)
PS…I love the gypsies!!
Melissa
Happy Birthday! Love your list
Jo @ Jo In the Kitchen
Happy birthday lovely, lovely Joy! I hope you have a wonderful day!
Sara F
Happy BDay! Amazing advice.
Hillary
What a beautiful post. Thank you for sharing and a very happy birthday to you.
Lauren
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday!!!
Three things: (1) This post is basically amazing and has officially made my Friday (sometimes its just the small things). Thank you for sharing…especially about boys…how did you know what has been on my mind? (2) Thank you for being so inspiring. (3) Your new logo, fonts and site setup look great!
tj
…”Happy Birthday Miss Joy!” Here’s hoping your day is FILLED with love, happiness, joy, laughter, family, friends and CAKE! *<:o)
…Your list is sheer perfection! Much like yourself there girl. ;o)
…We love you. Of course you knew that already but it never hurts to repeat. And repeat often.
…Birthday x's
…Blessings too. :o)
Barbara
Happy Birthday! Enjoy every minute of it!
Lizy B
Happy happy day! (I’ll talk to you about those gypsies any day…..obsessed)
steffy
A+ and in total agreement. Happy Birthday!
Kim
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday Joy!!! You definitely have a knack for telling it like it is and putting things in perspective. You are truly a very wise, inspiring and talented woman. I hope you have a Wonderful Day!!! :D
Robin (noteverstill)
Happy birthday, Joy! You are one of my very favorite reads on the internet and I’m so glad you come here an have these little talks with us.
Candice
Happy Birthday! Thank you for all the inspiring you do!
Holly
Is your birthday today? It’s also my sister’s birthday. No wonder you’re so cool – it’s the day. Have an awesome one.
All good advice you’ve got there – especially if it hurts don’t wear it. :)
Theresa Sea
Happy birthday, Joy! :)
brandi
happy happy birthday!!
all great lessons. some i’ve already learned, some i’m sure will come up in the next few years.
misschels
Happy Birthday Joy! Keep kicking ass and taking names! Thank you for being so honest and teaching us how to make and bake beautiful meals! I still have 6 years to go before I’m 30 and a lot of learning to do, but I think you have prepped me for some of it. Just reading your words of wisdom is enough!
JennF
Excellent advice on the Inception front. I’ve only seen it twice, I guess I’ve been slacking….better get on it! PS – last time I watched it, I totally rewound the floating hallway part to watch it again. One of the coolest movie scenes ever!
erianne
You’re a lovely person to write such wonderful thoughts. Thank you, and Happy Birthday…from someone you don’t know at all… :)
Meghan @ After the Ivy League
Happy birthday Joy!
I love reading your posts like this. You are so relatable. I feel like you’re telling me to be patient and reminding me that no one keeps secrets (both things I still need to learn!). Thanks for the beautiful post and have a fabulous birthday!
Kali
One: Happy freaking birthday! Yay!
Two: I watched My Big Fat American Gipsy Wedding the other day. A girl was brushing her teeth with bleach. Yeah, BLEACH to whiten her teeth so she didn’t have to go to the dentist to have it done. Sweet Jesus, that show is a trainwreck. I’m glad someone else watches it too. :)
Ravan
Happpppppppppy birthdayyyyyyyyyy!!!
Lisa Sanchez
Happy birthday, Joy! This list is fantastic. I totally agree with the closure thing. And the lipstick. And the cookies.
P.S. What kind of birthday treat are you having to celebrate?
Claudia from Idiot's Kitchen
Happy Birthday, Joy!
Meister
You have learned an awful lot in your 30 years, and though I’m the same age as you, I think you just taught me a bunch of stuff, too, from this post alone.
I agree with all of this, and am also finally starting to see my way to a truer, calmer, happier, more balanced, more settled life. And a life full of better, more meaningful eye contact.
Eye contact really is key.
Happiest birthday to you.
Lindsay @ The Live-In Kitchen
Happy birthday Joy! Thanks for the wisdom. The McDonalds thing made me laugh – spot on!
kelly
happy birthday joy, thank you for all that you do!
Sarah O.
Happy Birthday! I love your listen of what you have learned. It’s a fun way to think about your life.
Kaylie @ Skinny Muffin
Ahh! Happy Birthday!! Also, did you ever do that 30 Things for 30 Years?! I loved that.
Dee Dee A.
Happy Birthday! I turn 40 on Thursday. May is the month for awesome birthdays!
Gwyn M
Have a beautiful, lovely birthday, Joy!!! You are such a gift to so many!
Suraja
Happy birthday Joy !
What an amazing personality you are. Love the fact you have achieved so much in 30 yrs and yet you are so humble. Admire your sense of humor. Thank you for sharing your recipes and a peek at your life. Wishing you many more wonderful years to come.
Suraja
JessicaD
Happy birthday! I’ve been reading your blog for about a week and love your creativity and your writing. And the recipes, of course. Have a wonderful birthday and year ahead.
Melissa @ soul on a platter
May everyday bring you a sliver of pure happiness.
My sincere wishes for you.
Last year was beer and jelly beans, this year, champagne and carrot cake. Next year, Paris!
P.S
I keep my own secrets, so it is possible.
P.P.S.
Secret #63 I have no idea how to use commas.
Sara M
Happy Birthday Joy! You’re and amazing person :)
Sara M
Good…God….
*** You’re an ***
Ray
wishing you the happiest of birthdays Joy!! :)
i adored this post and the photos too! you’re an inspiration and always bring a smile to my face! keep on keepin on, girl!
Emily
Happy birthday Joy!! I hope you go out and have an amazing day!
p.s. I’m making a good friend one of your cakes for her birthday tomorrow, I sneaked your cookbook in to work today so I can go through it again and pick out the best one for her. Thank you for your words of wisdom, for all of your recipes, and for your great cookbook!
Rachel Wright
hApPy bIrThDaY jOy JoY! !!!!! I am having my 16 year old read this list today on her birthday. I sure wish I had one to read when I was 15-16. tHaNk yOu and have a sure duper day<3
Rachel
TinyTam
Happy Birthday Joy!! You are amazing and I appreciate you opening your world up to the rest of us and making us smile and laugh all along the way! Have a TREMENDOUS birthday!
Brook
Lovely words of wisdom. Happy Birthday!!!
Keri
Happy birthday Joy!
Love the list!
Laughter….. Don’t forget to laugh!
Andrea
This list was amazing, and so very true. Your writing is beautiful.
Happy Birthday!
m @ random musings
Happy Happy Birthday!
JA
Happy Birthday Joy! This is my first time commenting even though I have been reading this blog (and stealing recipes) for the past two years. I am turning 30 in two months and this post was so delightful and right on point! Thanks for this, and I hope you have an awesome birthday filled with love, laughter and great food.
Eliz. K
Ohhh, Happy Birthday!!! This is a wonderful, fantastic, inspiring post! (like each of your posts!)
Kelly W
Happy Birthday! I love it! I feel the exact same way, I have been on this earth 32 years next month, crazy!
Oh, I have an extra one for the list, maybe I should have 2. “Life is cut short sometimes, try to find something good in everyday.”
ileana
Happy birthday Joy! Cheers to many more.
Cherry
Happy Birthday. This list has just made my day. I’m 30 next year and may have to do something similar. Thanks x
laura
Happy birthday!!! You are wonderful and wise.
Amie
Happy Birthday, Joy! As always you have great wisdom for someone so young! Thank you for sharing.
Lots of Love,
Amie
Lindsay
Happy birthday, Joy! Love the list – I also turned 30 today :)
Lindsay
Liz
Happy birthday, Joy! Thanks for these awesome bits of wisdom. As a girl with very few girl friends, I can say with certainty that I would want to be your friend (if only I lived on the left coast) :)
Sue
happy happy birthday joy!
i SO wish i could bake you a cake and we could sit and enjoy it together! i gotta tell you – when we met at the chicago book signing you wrote in my book – “i hope you make lots of cakes”…
what you didn’t know is that i was in the midst of considering if i had what it takes to make the cake and cupcakes for my nephew’s wedding…
well, you pushed me over the edge, gave me the confidence i needed and i DID IT!
thank you so much for being a constant inspiration. for making me feel less crazy. for just being you.
you are wonderful and i’m so glad you have chosen to share some of your life with all of us!
today we celebrate you!
much love,
sue
Bea
Happy birthday, Joy! Thank you for all of the advice.
Karine Keldany
Happy Birthday Joy. All the best.
Cher
Happy Birthday!
I definitely loved my 30’s way more than my 20’s (I seemed to have my “stuff” more together). My eldest girl is having her 18th today – today is a great day for a birthday :-)
Julie
Happy birthday Joy! Your discoveries over the last 30 yrs are well put. Have a super day, weekend, and year ahead.
Nancy
Wishing you a very happy birthday, Joy!
My own accumulated wisdom includes this: Summer is made spectacular with fruit ice creams. Creamy-creamy vanilla with chunks of real peaches… Just the idea of it brings joy to my heart and tears to my eyes.
Alessandra
Cara Joy,
TANTI AUGURI!
you made me remember, i had my first surprise party for my thirties. that was cool.
in my 32s now, and i’ve learned that making somebody happy, for no reason, is cool too.
You make me (and a lot of other people too!) happy.
Thanks for that!
un abbraccio
Kate Minor
Fabulous. Just fabulous.
Danae
Happy birthday, Joy! Thanks for such a beautiful list, it was the perfect start to my morning. You’re such an inspiration, keep on being awesome!
eliza
Happy birthday, Joy! I always love reading your words of wisdom:)
mari
happy birthday Joy! you are an inspiration that makes me smile every day!
Katie
Happy Birthday Joy!
And thank you for making these lists, it’s a nice reminder of things!
Jennifer Anair
wow…
thank you for sharing that with me today! What an encouragement!
Bailey W.
Happy Birthday, Joy!! You are so inspiring. For reals. I’ll eat some ice cream tonight for you. =]
Katie
Happy birthday, Joy! And thank you for saying this:
No one keeps secrets. Remember this when you’re telling you’re people all your business.
It’s true and no one says it. And it’s not necessarily a bad thing. It can keep us honest and tuned in.
Birthday love!
Musketnuss @ I really take the cake
Happy Birthday to you!
Catherine
Great list! Happy Birthday and happy days ahead:).
Jen
love you and your blog. wishing you a very happy birthday and another wonderful year – thanks for sharing so much of yourself with us!
meg
“Don’t wait for some dumb boy to give you closure. You give yourself closure. That’s real. Tie that mess right on up. But ice cream if necessary.”
My favorite–and this must be learned over and over again, unfortunately/fortunately. And I’ve never regretted a breakup ice cream cone. Bon anniversaire!
ilovefetacheese
this is an amazing list. I’m 26 and relate a lot to everything you said. happy birthday
Sarah
Happy Birthday, Joy! You are amazing and I really enjoy following you on here. Not only do I get rave reviews for any recipe of yours I make and share, I genuinely enjoy your wisdom and perspective (and as a recent 29 year old I should be whipping up some wisdom and perspective myself…but whatever, I’ll get there). Have an great birthday!
Leisa
Happy Birthday Joy!
You always make my days brighter, I hope you know that! (especially when there are fluffy orange kitty pictures involved in your posts…. just sayin’)
I hope you have a great one!!!!
Anu
Happy Bday! Your list made me so happy. Thanks so much for the perspective :)
DessertForTwo
Happy Birthday, Joy! I hope it’s filled with happiness & love. And by 30, we all know that choosing happiness & love really is a CHOICE….not fate or coincidence :)
The cooking teacher
Happy Birthday Joy. You are going to help me turn 30…I will refer to this often.
Julie
Happy happy birthday, dear Joy! You make the world a lovelier place!
maryse
happy birthday! your list is perfect! i’m considerably older than you and some of those things i’m still learning.
Jennifer
Happy, happy birthday!
Loved reading your list!
Shirleen @ Sugar and Spice
Happy birthday Joy. And thank you for your 30-ish things learnt. It’s inspirational and although I’m older than you, there’s a lot I can learn from you. Let’s see if I can achieve some of the things you’ve recommended aye! :-)
Le Citron
Joyeuse anniversaire !
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar
joy, this post is mad real – I love it! Especially when you say “no one can keep a secret”. Everyone needs to know that!
Allie
Happy Birthday, Joy! Thanks for sharing your 31-year-old wisdom with us young’uns! So grateful to have you as an “elder”!
Liz
Happy Birthday Joy! Your recipes are fabulous, but it is these posts that are the real food for the soul.
I would never normally suggest another ingredient, but closure from boys and bad restaurant experiences can also be achieved with chocolate….
Karen
Happy Birthday Joy and many more years of happiness and learning! God bless you, xx all the way from sunny Spain
SamCyn
Great post…Happy B-day!
Sam Lowenstein
Happy Birthday Joy. I am a guy with 20 years on you. It gets even better!
Hollie
Happy Birthday Joy! Here’s to the next thirty, and the thirty after that, and …. :)
Melissa
Happy Birthday! I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of weeks now, and I’ve enjoyed it immensely. Thanks! (PS that shot of you in LAX really makes me miss LA)
Becca
Your list is ALMOST as wonderful and complete as you are, Joy!
One thing I learned in my 4th decade that I wish I had known in my 3rd… life is full of rollercoasters and storms. Take Dramamine and wear adorable rain boots so that you don’t have to wait for the storm to pass. Just dance in the rain!!
Happy birthday to beautiful you!
Karen Bee
Love this – great advice at any age! Happy, happy birthday!
Jules @ La Petite Maison Verte
Happy, Happy Birthday, Dear Joy! It’s all great advice, you are a wise lady.
Shelly Donahue
Lovely, witty, and spot on as always. Can I send my daughters to Joy’s summer camp? Wishing you a Happy Birthday and another year filled with God’s goodness.
Courtney @ I Am A Mess!
Happy B-Day!
Mallory
Happy Birthday Joy! Your half birthday falls on Thanksgiving sometimes, fyi :)
Erin
Happy Birthday to you! It’s my birthday too!
I have been subscribing to your blog for the past few weeks and I have to say I really enjoy it and feel like I can connect with you. And now, knowing that we have the same birthday is even cooler!!
Thanks for the birthday advice. I’m turning 25 today and I think all of it is very useful. Have a good birthday!
amy
Happy Birthday! I have nearly 12 years on you and I totally agree with your list. I can add, if I may: our bodies are truly temples. Keep yours healthy, strong, and beautiful, inside and out. Even if you have 5 rugrats running circles around you. Health is the alpha and omega. No excuses. Take care of yourself!! Oh and tanning is for the birds. Skin cancer sucks. Flaunt your pasty yet exquisitely toned legs proudly!
The Savory and The Beautiful
Feliz Cumpleanos Joy! May your day be filled with savory things, beautiful things, great company, and most of all Positive Energy, xoxo!
Candice, NYC
Jennifer Michie
Happy Happy Birthday! I hope someone is making you a delicious cake!! Loved the post, all good life lessons!
Angela @ the fairy bread chronicles
happy birthday joy! you are very wise :)
two days ago it was my 18th birthday, and the best present I got was your cookbook! complete love.
Bea
Happy birthday Joy!! Also, totally found out about the whole back of hair business recently… I’m 22.
Susie Davis
LOVE. the list.
Thanks for gifting us on your birthday.
Happiest day to you.
Amber
Happy Birthday Joy! I hope today is filled with lots of love and delicious cake. and maybe a cocktail or two.(=
Charlotte
Happy Birthday from overseas! :)
Shirley@bells-bakery
This is awesome. All we need now is the music to “everybodys free” and wear sunscreen at the end ha ha! great advice I can relate to most. happiest of birthdays to you joy xx
Dory
From Italy: You’re amazing!
I read you every day!
Katie
Happy Birthday! I enjoyed your list.
Bakerkat
Happy Birthday Joy!
Your wonderful
Michelle
Happy birthday! I appreciate you!
Maya
An unbelievably amazing bday to you Joy!!!!!
Live long and prosper :)
Faith Kathleen
You are hilarious and I wish we were friends. Haha for reals.
Farah
Happy birthday! Love this stuff. The closure line is spot on adivce too – tying my mess right on up right now!
Jen
Thank you for the beautiful words and happy birthday to you!
Averie @ Averie Cooks
Happy Birthday, Joy! I can’t believe how fast this year has gone. I remember reading your lessons post (and then seeing it relinked for a long time thereafter on so many sites) and it feels like it was just last week that all happened. But a year has gone by so fast!
Have an amazing day and year; you are fabulous! And so is this list. Love it!
Jess
Happy birthday Joy!
Its a year ago today I started reading you, what a year its been! :)
xxxxx
Aeshna
Happy birthday, Joy!
You’re amazing, and I wish you a very long and happy life and many exciting birthdays :)
Brittany @ Brittany Cooks
Happy Birthday! This was a very sweet post! :)
Michelle
Happy birthday! Thanks for the sage advice (sorry I just wanted to get a food reference in there). Sometimes you forget the things you’ve learned and need reminding. Thanks for that too.
Priya Sreeram
Happy B’day Joy- u r inspiring and keep doing that
dreamalittledreamalot
A most excellent post full of some advice that I already learnt and a few things that will come in handy! ;) Happy Birthday!
cheyenne
brilliant post.
and happy birthday!
xo, cheyenne
Kathryn
Happy birthday Joy, I hope you have a wonderful birthday and a wonderful year!
Nivaya
Happy Joyday, Joy!
I get the 30 thing next year. You make it seem not-scary :)
And I’ll have you know, I’m plenty nice to the other girls….They just think I’m weird. >.>
Margarita
Happy Birthday Joy! This is a great list of things you learned… Real, inspiring, beautiful, and funny! So you, so me, so all women! :)
Zee
Happy Birthday Joy! Though I am far from being 30 but I guess I can very well use your pearls of wisdom throughout my tweens specially the one on patience!. Amazing write up, thank you!
thelittleloaf
Happy birthday! I love these thoughts, especially the one about McDonalds – made me laugh out loud :-)
Sophie
Out of all the amazing stuff you post, this might be my favourite. I just turned 26 and I have a whole lot more learning to do…this list is definitely being bookmarked for the next 5 years. Happy Birthday!! Have an awesome day x
Khushboo
I love you, Joy! You’re the best, the very best :)
When I’m having a bad day, I hop on over to your blog, knowing that your posts will make me smile and give me the confidence to face another day with my head held high.
If I ever get a chance to meet you (and, I really hope that I do), don’t get freaked out if I hug you and start crying.
Oooh, and I love your style!
Juan Carlos
Feliz cumpleaños :) Happy birthday. Nice thoughts.
Adeline
Happy Birthday Joy, wishing you plenty of good things!
Turned 28 6 days ago, and I still haven’t recovered. Also, you make me want to move to LA and live by the beach. Just sayin’.
April Jade
Happy Birthday Joy!
You’re always such an inspiration to me.
Have a fabulous weekend!
The slow pace
Dear Joy,
this was such a nice and true post. I think 30’s are the best decade because you’ve learnt so many things… but you still have lots of things to discover.
For instance, I’ve discover your blog not so long ago! :-)
Happy birthday!
leaf (the indolent cook)
Happy birthday! May I reach my 30s as gracefully…
Maria Vidal
THE BEST!!! Happy birthday to you!!
Monsterscircus
Happy birthsday to you!!! I hope you are going to have a wonderful and Joyish Day!!!
katb
Happy Birthday Joy. Your blog always makes me smile :)
Priya
Happy Birthday, Joy! An awesome write-up as usual… I am turning 31 in a couple of days and I hope to practice all of those things, especially patience!
Freya Gamlen
Happy birthday Joy :) I still haven’t learnt a few of those things yet, but I’m hoping they’ll come on the next 12 years or so… :) thanks for sharing :)
Elisabeth
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, JOY!
You are one special Lady, thank you for all your hard work, yummy recipes, beautiful pics and wise words! Have a great day!
Charlotte
Beautiful. Very well put.
Happy Birthday to you!
Collette
Happy birthday to a fellow beautiful Gemini! :)
Amy
Happy Birthday Joy! I love waking up and reading your posts!
Tiffany H
Happy Birthday Joy! I hope you have a beautiful and splendid day :)
Jessica
happy birthday lady!
Also, My Big American Gypsy Wedding… watched and love so so much. And while he might not admit it, the boy and I actually watched a few episodes on our romantic weekend way.
Laura
Happy birthday joy! Love your pearls of wisdom.
Elizabeth
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOY! You’re the best!