I need you. Did you know that?
I’ve had the shaky leg lately. I’ve eaten waaaay too much popcorn in full-on fits of what can only be described as ‘nervous eating’. I’ve more to-do lists than I care to admit. I shouldn’t even mention this weird pacing and sweeping the floor habit that I have.
I think I’ve been a little anxious in the world. Earthquakes. Taxes. Tornadoes. Bin Ladens. I dunno. I’m feeling it.
There’s this thing I do when I’m anxious… I try to make other people feel better. Thinking about making other people feel good makes me feel good. So! I pick up a pen, bust out my box of stationary, and write letters. I know how much I like to receive letters, and I feel compelled to pass on that sensation.
I know I’ve written a handful of you letters for my 30 Things Before 30 Years post, but I wanted to broaden my reach. I want to write more of you. Can I?
Here’s the deal:
Send your address, or the address of someone you think might really enjoy a handwritten (albeit entirely silly) letter. I will, in all likelihood (and in due time) write you a letter. If you receive a letter, please (please!) snap a quick photograph of you and said letter to email to me. Deal?
I have a feeling I’m going to need to stock up on stationary.
Oh! And I should mention that if you entrust your address to me, I will only use it for purposes of friendly letter writing… I won’t stalk you… although if I did stalk you, I’d probably bring cookies. So. You know. Not so bad.
Email you mailing address to: joy the baker is my penpal (at) gmail (dot) com. No spaces… silly.
Check your mail.
Ps. I sometimes use crayons. I’m one of the cool kids.
Pps. Judging by the response so far… I’m really going to need additional stationery.
Ppps. An update. It’s been less than 24 hours, and I’ve received nearly 1,000 addresses. I’m stoked. I’m amazed. I’m going to get a hand cramp. I’ve written six letters so far. Six. Keep the addresses coming. I love you.
Carly
I’m not sending you my address as it sounds like you already have enough letters to write. At 33, I actually have a penpal – my husband’s cousin who moved to another city. We both love mail and inane chit-chat. I often buy cute cards and postcards to send “thinking of you” notes to friends. I’m sure everyone who receives your letters will love them. You’re an inspiration, Joy. Thank you for being you.
OlenAmazing
I can’t wait to get my Joy The Baker Letter!! Crayons Rule!!
Elizabeth Toel
I LOVE your idea of writing letters! I am a fan of a hand written note or card myself. Nothing brightens your day like getting one in the mail.
I enjoy your blog…yummy fun recipes and you write with such a sense of humour and honesty!
xoxo
dani
joy u r an inspiration :)
Carolina
ooooooh great idea!!!! omg, i hope i get a letter! teehee nothing brings me more joy than hand-written letters :) .
Megan
So cool! I can’t wait. I think I’ll do this myself. Although I won’t have nearly as many letter to write!
Suzanne
I want a letter from you!
:-D
Ana-Maria
What a lovely idea! Do you think you can send letters outside US too? I would love to receive a letter from you! :X
Bridget
Very cool! One year I made a New Year’s resolution to write a letter a month (or was it a week?). I didn’t get a lot of handwritten replies, but it was fun nonetheless. Enjoy!
Carolyn
It would be so amazing to hear from JOY THE BAKER!
Kara
I do the same thing! I love that you are doing this! If you didn’t have so many addresses already I’d have sent you mine! Let me know when you run out and i’ll give it to you! :)
Lee Ann L.
Aww, you’re so sweet! I’ve always wanted a pen pal; but, never found one. Since you have over 1000 now, I think I’ll let you rest. :-)
Mondo
what an amazing idea! there’s nothing like receiving a personal letter in the mail. nowadays, it’s all circulars, ads, or some such nonsense. I should write some letters too. thanks for the inspiration!
Julie
I’ve just discovered your blog, and I just had to say thank you. This is just what I needed today. As a medical school student, my body and soul can get a bit undernourished at times. Thank you for providing some much needed nourishment today!
Sarah
Oh, what fun, cool idea! You’re kinda like Santa!