There is always a beginning.
On January 13, 2008 I had a really good idea. I started a blog. I wrote a post. I posted a picture. I opened up comments to anyone who might (most accidentally) stumble upon my ramblings… and I misspelled the title of my first post (thereby setting the tone for every other word I would type in this space).
My beginning was short, yellow-lit, and misspelled.
In the five years that I’ve lived in this little Internet space I’ve also…
lived in three different apartments, driven two different cars, and held the hands of various dudes, dates and boyfriends. I’ve made a best friend. I’ve created podcasts with another best friend. I’ve traveled to London, over-eaten in New Orleans, and nursed (at least) two and two-thirds hangovers. I’ve borrowed three cameras. I’ve dropped one computer on the concrete. I’ve cried at least eight times. I’ve adopted one cat. I’ve lost two jobs. I’ve gotten in one bike accident. I’ve had 89 freak-outs of varying degrees. I’ve written one book, made hundreds of biscuits, and eaten dozens of pounds of chocolate chips.
For the past five years, this little space has always been where I want to spend my time. When I started this blog I didn’t really think about who might come here and read it… mostly because I figured no one would. I just wanted to play with my butter, sugar, and camera. Somewhere along the way, you joined me in this weirdo journey and I’m really so glad you did. I didn’t know I missed you until you got here… and now I’m sure I can’t do without you. I am so thankful for your enthusiasm and kindness. You’re weird too! Seriously, let’s high-five!
This Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Apart Bread is the most bonkers popular recipe I’ve ever shared. Something about doughy cinnamon bread reaches inside your heart. We are all the same… this bread proves it.
This is the most useful bit of unsolicited advice I’ve shared with you in five years: On Turning TwentyOne. There’s a few gems about the importance of water over rum, and eye contact over Facebook. I’m ThirtyOne now and I really need to write the ThirtySomething follow-up to this list. Lord knows I’m still out in the world acting a fool.
I wrote a bit about accidentally seeing an ex-boyfriend on the Internet. This had some of you thinking that I had taken up drunk blogging as a hobby. Yea… I’ve read the hate boards… I know what’s going on. Was I drunk when I wrote that post? No.
That should clear things up.
It hasn’t all been sweet in these few years. I have been very fond of sandwiching. Pepper Jack Grilled Cheese Sandwiches? Out of control!
And I have so many more cookie stacks in me. These Vanilla Almond Cloud Cookies are just the beginning.
All of this is really just to say THANK YOU! Thank you for indulging my boy talk, life lessons, poor spelling, and sometimes awkward food photography. Thank you for making as many cupcakes as you have, and leaving all of the awesome comments that you do. You make my life better everyday. It’s so weird and awesome and true.
Five years! Working on six! I have you to thank, and thank you I do.
Shermaine
I read a lot, but don’t often comment on blog posts. One may even call me a blog stalker (although I beg to differ, one can have her own self-delusions!).
However, I must comment on this one for one reason. Your blog has been quite the inspiration, since stumbling across it a number of years ago. Okay fine, two reasons. It honestly entertains me. I enjoy reading every post (whenever I finally get the time to), and your writing style is honest and often makes me giggle to myself.
I’ve relocated to Shanghai, where ovens seem to be non-existent. But baking is my love, and the moment I get back to Australia – all your bookmarked recipes will definitely come in handy.
So thank you. Keep writing, and keep doing what you love.
Coz you’re damn good at it.
Love, S.
x
sooyoung
congrats!!! and thanks for such yummy tasting and looking recipes!!! can’t wait for the next 5!
Ani
Let’s see, where to start…
I stumbled upon you just as you stumbled upon blogging.
5 years
It’s funny because I’ve never posted, and sometimes you think about the people who’s blog you read or the characters in the books you read like you know them. Like you could call them up and say “Hey” for no reason. But you can’t because it’s reality, and it’s weird and strange to do that. But here’s to weirdness and out of the blue inspiration!
I stumbled upon you just as I moved to Seattle on impulse to change my life, and you came with me. Through 3 cars (1 died of old age, 1 died of a drunk boyfriend and slippery slope, and 1 that still is living with me now), 2 computers, 3 stolen phones, 4 different houses, 3 different neighborhoods, 3 different jobs, heart break and bliss, biscuits and bourbon (seriously…more women should be bourbon girls…vodka really doesn’t count) I’ve been laughing, reading and baking (well, interpreting because I can never let something just be what it is) right along with you.
You constantly make me laugh and remind me that more people should be having as much fun being bonker and messy and creative as you do (and as I do as well).
You’re fabulous.
You hear it often (and with good reason)
But I’m here to tell you again:
You’re wonderful.
You’re wonderful because you’re you.
Your humor, your food, your talent, your reflection, your mistakes–all of it.
It’s awesome and I just wanted to say that, because there is face to face life, and there is internet life , and sometimes in this cyber-centric world, we don’t get to tell the people we adore and think are amazing humans, that they are just that: amazing.
So, happy 5 years Joy.
It’s been a strange half decade for me, but I’m glad you’re around to make it a little bit more ridiculous, silly and more delicious.
Seanna Lea
I think your blog is just fine. Mine is also a work in progress and doesn’t have even a 10th the popularity of yours. Maybe if I took more cat pictures. ^_^;
Krystal
you are awesome! Your posts always make me smile and this one is no exception.
Cookie an Kate
Happy five years, Joy! You’re an inspiration.
Laura
I LOVE YOUR blog! you inspired me to start my own food/life blog. KEEP YOU THE AMAZING WORK! we’ll be here to support you!
Caitlin
Happy 5 years! I love your blog! I’ve been following for a while, but only just recently started my own blog too. (lots of mis-spelling and grammatical errors will ensue on my blog too) Congratulations on all of your success. You deserve it. :)
Rachel
You are the cutest thing ever. Congrats on making it to five years!
Jenny
I’ve been reading, and i’ve been being inspired, and i’ve been recreating your blog delights for the last five years. The first post I ever read was for your black and white red velvet cookies, and I was hooked. That’s all it took. You helped turn me from blog skeptic, to lover, to writer. So thank YOU for five years.. Keep it awesome, keep it real.
Gena@BakeAllTheThings!
Happy blogaversary! It’s been fantastic watching you grow over the past few years and I’m continually impressed with you!
AJ
Congratulations Joy! I normally don’t leave comments on blogs because I am too shy and I think I don’t have anything substantial to add. But this is special. I can’t claim to have been with your journey for five long years, I just stumbled on it sometime 2 years ago. And I was enthralled… I was frankly scared of baking and all precision in measurements talk. You made me feel as if I was missing out on all the fun! You made it look so simple and FUN. Also, love to read your anecdotes and I find myself ambling over whenever I need a pick me up! Thank YOU Joy and wish you a long, long journey ahead.
joythebaker
i REALLY appreciate you!
Caroline Leigh
i freakin love you and I don’t even know you. but I love your blog! xoxo
Ana S.
This is the first time I comment…though it’s been hundreds of times that I’ve chuckled and smiled at my laptop screen while reading your amazing posts.
Thank YOU for being you! Your bold frankness and warmth, your crazy interior monologues and your simple complexity makes me feel like I’m reading through the mind of one of my closest friends…
Dozens of kisses and hugs from Valencia, Spain.
Melissa
Thank you for making life’s awkward moments some we can laugh about… :-) You are loved and appreciated!!
Melissa
lol… something* — oh boy…
Susan
Congratulations! You’re an inspiration to the rest of us!
Kellie
Happy 5 years! I love you. :-)
Bere
Thank YOU!
Thank you for sharing your life, thoughts and awesome recipes on this little thing called the internet :-)
You have been a huge inspiration to me!
Heidi - Apples Under My Bed
Happy 5 years :) I’m a fairly recent joiner, a year or so. Having a blast. You’re ever entertaining, talented and real.
Heidi xo
Randy
Thank you for being inspirational and putting a smile on my face. On your worst day you bring Joy to mine (pun intended)! Thanks!
Loretta | A Finn In The Kitchen
Five years?! That’s incredible! I’m so glad you stuck with it. Just look where you are! You never fail to make me smile :)
Jessica
You’re my fave! I’ve been reading you for 4 years. Every sunday i bring breakfast to church and its usually one of your recipes. Thanks for making me look good!
Marleena @ theflexfoodie
Yay! Five years is a milestone in the food blogging world. Congrats on your cookbook, and and I can’t wait to see your next one! :)
Katy
Congratulations. And thanks from a reader of at least 4 of those years. Your book sits on the bookcase of my little flat in central London, UK. You should be very proud of that..
Rebecca
Congratulations on being 5 years online! And you seem to be as enthusiastic about food as on the first day! I really enjoy your blog although I have just stumbled over it recently ;) But definitely following it from now on!
Take care,
Rebecca
Hannah Jade @ The Littlest Bakehouse
Congrats! And thanks to you for being such an inspiration.
Jessica
happy 5 years! congratulations on all your accomplishments! your blog is full of joy! :) your posts always put me in a good mood. and always keep me laughing!
Kim C.
Congratulations on Five years Joy!!!! Your blog was the VERY FIRST baking blog that I started reading and I’m so very glad that you made that decision to share your recipes, photos, wise words, and life with us. I’m truly, very Happy for you and I look forward to many years of visiting your blog to read, laugh, think, be inspired and of course bake!! :D
sarah ahearn bellemare
i recently discovered you (& your maj) and now there’s no turning back. i look forward to this space and all you share here… you’ve even made me buy a baking book (yours) and bake stuff, and, well, i just don’t do that sort of thing. you have a special somethin’ going on here, i can’t wait to see what else is up that creative sleeve of yours. you are funny, real, and a just a breath of fresh air in this crazy blogOland. thanks for being here and congratulations! here’s to another 5! xo *sarah
Jenny
I’ve been a reader of your blog from the very beginning and I have enjoyed every minute of it. Sure, not everything I try turns out the right way but I learn something new. I love how creative you are and I will keep listening to the podcast and reading the blog. I will definitely buy that 2nd cookbook too when you’re done with it!
Jenna | The Paleo Project
Congratulations beautiful!!! Five years is awesome! Tomorrow is year two for me…. pretty excited about it! You’ve made a beautiful space that I love coming to – so thank you!
joythebaker
happy two years to you!
Samantha
Congratulations! I can’t tell you how much I adore your blog… your words of wisdom, your beautiful photos, your delicious recipes… all so wonderful and so very impressive!
Ladotyk
Joy, you are so fun. Thank you for taking the time to share your quirky self with us.
Chineka @ Savor the Baking
Happy 5 year anniversary. I have enjoyed coming to your blog for many years and I enjoy each post.
rachel
thank you for being a constant companion and blogger legend over these years. here’s to many more years i hope :)
Y
Joy, I love, love, love your blog, your recipes, the way you write and your honesty! You have made me laugh and giggle a lot! Here’s to at least 5 more wonderful years! You are a Joy :)
Diane
Joy, you are such a sweet thing. I think any mama would be proud to have you as a daughter and every woman would love to count you as a friend. Thank you for brightening up our day and getting our creative juices flowing. PS….. the cinnamon sugar pull apart recipe was the first thing I made from your ideas….I love that stuff, always looks just like the picture! Thank you
Jonena
Congrats on Five!
For the record – I applaud and love your ex-boyfriend-sighting post – real talk, real life, sometimes awkward, uncomfortable and bittersweet. Thank you for being courageous, even without liquid courage.
Cheers!!
Laura
Isn’t it amazing how much we are all so much alike. (At least we can admit it) I love your blog and the food. Keep up the good work!!
Gina
You should do a 2012 favorite /top recipes blog:)
Chris
Congratulations…and thanks for the lovely blog. I don’t know what a “hate board” is, but if there’s a “rad board” out there, you’d be on mine.
Bonnie
Congratulations, Joy! We’re glad you’re here!
Mary Ellen
Congratulations on your blog-iversary! I just started reading you this fall – my teenage daughter found you first. You truly live up to your name – what a joy!
Jim
Bake on, sweetie-pie. You’re better than you were yesterday, but not as good as you’ll be tomorrow. Butter rules!!
Jessie
Joy! Thanks for your heart-warming and fun posts, and for inviting your readers into your life. Your recipes are always on my to-make list! I have recently started my own food blog, Purple House Cafe (you know, along with the other thirty four million people with food blogs). But it’s so, so fun!
Susan
Love your blog and that cinnamon pull apart bread was the first recipe of yours I made. Thanks for being you!
Aubrey
Thank you Joy for sharing your life and passions with all of us people on the internet! You have inspired me to experiment in the kitchen and also to start my own blog. You are an amazing lady and inspiration!!
Michelle Brown
Happy 5 years Joy! You are the first food blog I started following a few years ago – you have changed the way I look at food and cook and bake. You have inspired me to start my own blog – someday you will see Michelle Makes… somewhere on the web (when I get motivated to really do this thing). I’d also like to thank you for introducing me to King Arthur Flour – holy cow – how did I not know about this place – I am obsessed with their stuff and am now a frequent online orderer thanks to your previous gift boxes. So – thanks for being you and inspiring others and congratulations on 5 very wonderful years!
Stefanie @ Sarcastic Cooking
THANK YOU JOY! For helping me meet MY maj at one of your book signings in Chicago. We now cook, bake, and eat biscuits together all the time! Also Thank you for inspiring me to do better and think differently, write from my heart more often on my own blog! Lurve you gurrrrllll!
Brian @ A Thought For Food
Sorry I’m just getting to congratulate you now. You should be so proud of what you’ve created here. Such a huge part of who you are. Isn’t it amazing the connections we make through our blogs? Totally unexpected… but so wonderful. Happy 5th Blog Birthday!
Kasia
*Awkward high five* Seriously, thank you Joy! I wish I had known about your blog and been a fan for all 5 years instead of just the last two! You inspire my blogging so much! Hoping for another 5 years!
Michelle
Love, love, LOVE your blog (and your cookbook – legit, everything I have made has been fantastic!). Congrats on 5 years! Thanks for everything!
Celia
Happy 5 years Joy! I wish you a thousand more!
Jule
:-) :-) ;-)
Oh YEAH!
Catherine
I think I have been following you for four of the five. It has been great and I want to thank you for sandwich cookies (and your blog to your bank) and hot buttered rum cider. I also love chocolate, peanut butter and bourbon among other things and I am originally from L.A., although I have been in Texas for a while now. I love your blog and your recipes. Come visit the Lone Star State soon!
Diana
Congratulations on Five Years Joy!! That’s such a big accomplishment, and great to see how far your blog has come! Love everything from the past and present, and looking forward to many more years of Joy the Baker!!
Kelli
Happy 5th blogging birthday! There just aren’t enough cupcakes in the world to properly celebrate thus momentous occasion. I have been following your adventures in baking and your beautiful spirit for two years now. I love that your blog is the first thing I see when I open the interwebs! Cheers to many more years!
Kelsey Montague
You’ve created such an awesome community and every time I visit your blog it’s the perfect way to escape for a few minutes
Such an inspiration for the blog & company I started with my sister – http://www.hiddenbaby.com
Thanks Joy, great job!
xx
Kels
Stacey
Congratulations on 5 years Joy! I love reading your blog. It inspires me to bake which I love to do but never seem to have enough time. Your recipes encourage me to make time. I recently tried your Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls and they were awesome! There’s nothing like waking up early on a Saturday morning and getting your hands ‘dirty’ mixing dough! Best wishes for another 5 and many more!
Laura @FoodSnobSTL
Congrats! Have loved your blog for years and still enjoy reading it every week!
Cate
Thank YOU for being awesome!
Yours is one of the only blogs I’ve read consistently for 4+ years and never gotten tired of. I could really use your thirtySomething advice since I’m about to head into the last year of my twenties (yikes)
Sarah Brown
I am thankful that I found your blog 2 years ago—still my favorite food blog out there….and I love every bit of talk on life and every bit of beautiful food you put your heart and soul into to share with us. Happy 5 years! Hope to meet you in the future—-Maine book signing this year???
Vicki B
You’re such a delight! And now I’m craving that grilled cheese sandwich.
Betsy Browne
Congratulations and Thank you Joy! May you continue to enjoy
many successes with your gits, talents and many contributions to
our daily lives. It’s always a joy to open your blog (and soon I
hope your book). Well done. Stay saafe and be of good cheer.
Betsy
Lady Jennie
Love your first post, malgré la faute! ;-)
Happy five
Kait
Joy, Thank you for the countless amounts of inspiration and butter you’ve shared with us! [This is the space where I would say you rock! or Keep it up! but when I try to make words happen right now, they don’t want to] Congratulations!
Silke
Go on you are graet and I love your blog !!! Kises from south of munich
My kitchen is always open
Cindy
Congrats on your 5 years!
Julia
I totally want to be here for the next five :)
Gerry @ Foodness Gracious
You’re welcome, I wish I’d found your butter cave earlier :) Congrats on a milestone!
Kimberly H
Happy blogiversary!
Cheryl
High 5! Can’t wait to see what’s to come in the next 5 years:) Hugs!
Alissa
Congrats and thank you for all that you do! Your blog is amazing, your recipes have made more of my family happy than I can tell you, and your book is on my birthday wish list :) I can’t wait to see what this year brings in your life! Best wishes!
Anu
You are amazing and inspiring. Reading your blog makes me smile. I haven’t yet baked anything that has been up on your blog but I can’t wait to try.
Chelsea
So glad I found you online (and met you in the real physical world, at deb’s Beverly hills cookbook signing)! can’t wait for what year six has in store…
Carrie
Thank you so much for continuing to post funny, inspiring, and thoughtful things. I look forward to reading what you have to say each week. You have encouraged my baking habit, given me confidence with relationships, and taught me to never take anything too seriously. Thank you.
Rebecca in STL
Happy 5 year blogiversary! Thank you for making something that brightens my day and my kitchen!
brianne
happy five years, Joy! thank you for sharing tasty recipes and for making me smile. you’re the best!
b
anna
lovely, joy. thanks for all the effort you put into it! your blog definitely brightens my little life :)
Natalie
You are amazing. Incredible actually (since I use amazing too much… or so it has been said…) And I thank you for being just you. You have inspired me to make my first (of many) cake’s from scratch, frost cakes, make my own frosting, nurse breakups with brownies and chocolate chip cookies and none of this was done with any regrets. You’ve made me a little better and smile a lot more. Thank you for blogging. For being honest and for the baking/recipes too. Happy 5th birthday little blog.
xo
Natalie
dishesrunwaysandbriefcases.blogspot.com
Brunie
Dear Joy,
..I love your blog. Never stop dreaming and writing and baking and cooking…..I think you are pretty amazing.
Much Light and Love throughout the years….
Marissa
You’re the girl who ‘taught’ me how to bake almost three years ago. I would be forever grateful xoxo
Connie
Joy, love, love, love the blog and that’s real talk. Here’s to many more years of pepper jack sandwiches and hot fudge cupcakes. Cheers!
Stephanie
and thank YOU for inviting us on this wonderful, weird ride. you’re such a joy, Joy! (i’m sorry, i had to)
Cassie sue
Joy,
You are I are both from So Cal, we are around the same age, and I don’t know if that is why I love your blog and your cookbook, but I do really love what you do. Your space here is always uplifting and real, and it is just a fun place to visit. Congrats on all of your successes! And keep telling your stories.
mary
joy, you’re my inspiration.
thank YOU for your blog.
Mindy
I think your not-drunkenly-written blog post was beautiful and heartfelt and I have some choice words I would really enjoy saying to anyone who thinks otherwise! They can stick it where the sun don’t shine. I loved it. I’ve felt that. I think you should write more stuff like it. And that’s that.
Holiday Baker Man
I love it all….thank you!
Mallory Brooks
FIVE YEARS NEVER FELT SO GOOD, JOY!
Tracy
Congratulations Joy!!! You are the best and I just love your spirit! Luck to you in all your aspirations. Bring on the biscuits and cookies!!
megan
You are awesome! I love reading your posts!
mollie rocket
You are adorable. I really en”joy” reading your blog.
Aimee
Congrats on 5 years! I’ve been reading your blog for at least the last 3 years, and it’s been fantastic! I’ve loved seeing you post more savory foods along with the sweet, and your writing and photos constantly draw me back here. Here’s to at least 5 more!
Valerie
Congrats on 5 awesome years!! Looking forward to the next 5!
Marilyn
You’re bonkers awesome!!
Caroline Wickham
– as mentioned on Facebook, I’m new here since a sweet gentleman sitting nearby me in a cafe mentioned your blog. I love it, cook fm it (baked crunchy cornmeal) …and thank you!
Aly
Happy Anniversary Joy! I’ve been following your blog and wowing friends with your recipes for a few years now and I can’t wait to see what you have up your sleeves for the next five years.
Marcie @ FlavortheMoments
Congratulations on your 5 years! I can only hope my blog is half as successful as yours when it turns 5. High five right back actcha cuz I know I’m weird, too. I love your cookbook, by the way.
caroline
you rock.
Annie
Congratulations on your first five years! I wanted to finally post how much I adore reading your blog. Thanks for sharing and making me feel more normal. You are the best!! Cheers to you — and here’s hoping for many more years of delicious food and fun :)
Deb in Indiana
Congratulations! Hard to believe it’s been that long — I always enjoy finding a post from you.
Natay
We love you, Joy! Thanks for all the good eats and good laughs you bring to me on a weekly basis. Here’s to another great year!
Katie
I’ve been reading for about a year and half now and I love everything you post. And my friends love/hate me for always making them cookies. Congratulation on five years!
Sar
Happy Anniversary! Keep it comin’ — I adore your wonderful recipes!
Melissa
Thank You! You’re an inspiration to me!
Kayla
Happy 5 years Joy! Your random ramblings, pounds of butter, and tempting pictures always bring a big handful of happiness into my day. Cheers to the many more years, posts, books, and typos to come!
krystal
Joy, I want to THANK YOU for creating a blog space that houses amazing recipes, great stories, and completely makes me feel like we’re just chatting like friends. I look forward to more of the same and any awesome new stuff you come up with!
Notyet100
Wish ya many more milestones like this,,btw I got ur cookbook from library it’s awesome,,,:)
Angela
Super congrats on your 5 years! I just started to follow you a few months ago, and have been hooked ever since!
Here’s to another faubulous 5 years!
Erin
Congratulations on 5 years and THANK YOU Joy! Your blog is a delight to read and provides the perfect escape during long afternoons at the office. Cannot wait to keep sharing in your adventures… and so looking forward to the new book!
Anna @ hiddenponies
Congratulations on 5 years!! You’re an inspiration and your blog is always unique in a world of so many blogs, I absolutely love the voice you share.
Elizabeth
No, thank you! So happy that one day when I found your blog by searching for lenten chocolate cakes, and coming across the avocado one! Love it!
Kelly Ann
Just so you know, you’re pretty rad and you totally write how I think both ridiculous and a bit neurotic. I would love to high 5 you someday!
Yingna
Thanks for starting this blog 5 years ago and thanks for continuing to share your awesome recipes and details about your life.
Because of you, I’ve taken a real interest in baking and trying things I would have never tried before.
Honestly baking has saved my nerves far too many times (I’m trying to convince my friends that stress baking is a real hobby) and your recipes always turn out awesome and bring joy to everyone I share my (but actually your) baked goods with!!
Jeanette Morelan
You’re the cat’s pajamas and the reason I started my own blog about college life, although you can’t make as many delicious things with just a microwave…but thank you. Also thanks for responding to my tweet that one time. That was rad.
Lucy
I haven’t been here for all five, but I’ll be here for the next five and the five after that…cause you’re simply the best.
Melissa @ Treats With a Twist
I love the 5 year recap. It’s so enlightening to look back and see how far we’ve come. You’ve done some amazing and beautiful things. I can’t wait to see what’s up ahead. And I can proudly say, that in my giant collection of cookbooks, yours is one of my absolute favorites. I never thought I’d find another woman who adores banana bread, can make vegan versions of things (although neither of us is vegan) and can enjoy a bowl of kettlecorn for dinner. Thank YOU.
Jackie
Happy Anniversary, Joy! You rock.
Katya
Happy blog-iversary! Your blog is fantastic and I am always inspired by it to try new things in and out of the kitchen. Thanks for that! You rock! (yes, I said ‘you rock’ – a bit of throwback for you)
Chera
I’m so happy you do what you do Joy! I check in every day and have made so many of your wonderful creations! It’s a thing now when I bring an elaborate and delish dessert to family gatherings they all know who came up with you! You!! So thank you!!!
Tiffany
Can’t believe it’s been 5 years!! However, last weekend I made your two bite chocolate chunk muffins from the recipe I printed out in ’08 so it must be true! Congrats, Joy! I love reading your blog and look forward to more to come!
Erin
you’re just so dang adorable. I really love reading your words and ogling your photos. thanks for having us all here!
Laura Lee
Thank you for great recipes and great stories. Your blog always brings a smile to my face :)
Jo
Thank YOU for writing such an enjoyable blog and all those tasty recipes.
Liz
Thanks Joy — I love your blog and your recipes (your brown butter chocolate chip cookies are my new go-to). Congratulations on your first 5 years and I hope you have may more :)
Brianna
What a lovely first post you did five years ago. Congratulations–and thanks for reposting this cinnamon bread. Drooling.
Erin
Congratulations on five years! And I owe you thanks for making my husband’s sports mania much more tolerable. I mean, what would I do with myself if I didn’t have Joy the Baker to read during 75 million hours of football every Sunday?
coffeeaddict
Cudos for your guts and honesty and livilg your life fearlessly. Here’s to the next 5 :-D
Rethea
I found your blog through Cupcakes and Cashmere last year. I’m glad I did. I’ve bookmarked your site and read it daily. You’re a joy to read.
ROR
Happy 5th birthday Joy! You make me laugh and I love you for that. :)
Tamara
Happy Anniversary Joy!! Love you and your blog! Truly inspiring!!
Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe
Happy five years to you joy. i love coming here and reading it all. i have also drooled on my keyboard approximately one hundred times looking at the delicious and pretty photos. keep up the beautiful work! xo
Meghan
Thank you Joy! You are an inspiration.
tray
There are hate boards?
What the hell?
Alan
Congratulations on 5 years, Joy. I think I’ve been visiting about 2 of the 5 and hope to stay with you as long as you have the motivation. You write well, cook well, look well and keep us all smiling. I have at least a dozen of your recipes tucked away for the future.
Great job here.
Alison
High-five back to you, Joy! I’ve been following you for about 2 years ago. I found your blog due to a typing accident, but what a great accident. I have made many of your recipes. They are awesome and I get a lot of compliments (and I do always mention that the recipes came from you). But perhaps even more awesome is that every morning I look forward to checking your blog to see if you’ve added a post. It’s a great way to start my day and makes me happy. You are real, you are funny, and you are smart. And weird. Keep it up, friend!
Brenda
Congratulations, Joy! I don’t remember when exactly I started reading your blog (maybe three years ago) or how I found it, but I’m so glad I did! And I’m not even someone who enjoys baking or cooking! But I love drooling over your pictures, and I love receiving the sunshine and delight that leap from your words! Best wishes!
tracie
Sooo glad you and your blog are around!
Monica De Angelis
You are an inspiration, always!
Hilary Wilkie
I have secretly been reading your blog for a few months now, but it was this post that got me to comment. Thank you for those words of inspiration and wisdom. A wee while back I started my own blog and am very very slowly working on it. This may just be the kick in the pants I need to really get it underway. Thanks!
Barbara
Usual lurker… but I’m coming out to say Congrats today!
joelle (on a pink typewriter)
This post makes me so happy, and I really am glad to have discovered your blog, too!
Lisa
you make me laugh, you touch my heart, and my family and friends thank you for the wonderful cake recipes that i have gotten from you.
some people can make baking seem intimidating and difficult, but with you; its having a girlfriend take you by the hand, and then cheer you on.
Lynsey @ Lynsey Lou's
Happy five years to you! Here’s to many more. Thanks for sharing your talents and delicious food with the world!
Stephie @ Eat Your Heart Out
Thank YOU for posting! You’re an inspiration: as a blogger, as a baker, as a generally awesome woman/human being. Keep going; I can’t wait to see what you come up with next.
Cindy
Happy Anniversary! I’m in awe of your ability to stay with this in a consistently entertaining and informing way. Looking forward to 5 more!
Packing Rainbows
5 more years – 5 more years :)
Jaime
congrats & happy birthday! your blog, recipes, and journey is super inspiring and so fun to read about. your food is approachable, your writing is creative and real, and your photos are delicious! cheers, and thank YOU!
LaChelle @ SugarDuchess
Happy five years, Joy! I found your blog within a month of that first awkward post, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Thanks for five years of sugar and butter and real talk.
Zsuzsa
Thank YOU and happy anniversary! I would soooo hug you if I could. (In a non-stalking way ofcorz :)
Looking forward to the next 5 years.
Kait @ ChickadeeSays
Congrats! I’m (relatively) new on this blog and I love it! Cheers to five more years!
xx Kait
Kelley O
No, Thank you!!! You are awesome.
Ashley @ Wishes and Dishes
I thought the “accidentally seeing your ex…..” post was one of your best actually. It was so sincere and I’m sure a ton of people could have totally related. Here’s to lots more 5 years! That didn’t make sense, but u know what I mean :)
Lauren
Agreed. I thought that was a really poignant post. It’s one of the reasons I now follow your blog regularly (that and you got me hooked on thought catalog). I like the choice you’ve made to share your humor, insecurities, life, and then relate that to food. Congrats on five years!
G
likewise!
it’s been great following your posts, reading your thoughts on all sorts of topics and knowing that there are people who share a similar attitude to life. all the best, that’d be friends, family, nail polish and bourbon. and chocolate. and anything else you please!
Mary
Happy Anniversary! Thanks for sharing your life and recipes with us for the past five years. you are rad.
Carol Duffey
Joy, congrats, love your pictures, love your stories, love your site, love your yummy food, and love you. Thanks for sharing your love of cooking, baking and all the other good stuff. Blog on!!!!!!!
Carol
Kate
No, Joy. Thank you! It’s always a real pleasure (I wanted to say joy, but would that be cliche?!) to come hear and read and learn and think. I’m turning 30 this week, and in a lot of the same life- space as you. I always recognize a lot of myself in these posts, and also find the things to strive for. Keep it up, you give so much to so many of us out here!
Holly
Congratulations on your 5th yr. As long as you keep blogging, I’ll keep reading.
Dela
I teach a writing class and one of my projects was a blog assignment. One of my students suggested your blog and I really liked the layout and the post. I have been sharing your blog with my students since then. I am so glad I found this blog and you, Joy.
Dawn
There are Joy the Baker hate boards?!?! How is that even possible? I love your blog and your podcast, Joy! Here’s to many many more weird years ahead!
Amy
Congrats on 5 years!
Thank you for all the great reicpes, for being a daily stop in my blog verse, for all your misspellings, and real posts. have a great day
Kenzie
About 3 years ago, I “stumbled” on your blog & have been coming back ever since. You’re a friend to so many people who have enjoyed 5 years-worth of Joy the Baker shenanigans & recipes. Keep doing your thing, girl, it’s fantastic!
Monique @ Ambitious Kitchen
Congrats, you’re amazing and inspiring! xo
Jamie @ green beans & grapefruit
HUGE congrats Joy! Such a milestone and thanks for sharing your world with the rest of us!
Sylvia
Congrats! You are awesome and my go-to when I want to read something fun and make something delicious. High five to many more years!
Andrea J
Congrats Joy! And thank you for everything you do. Ever since i found you all i find myself doing is constantly stalking your site hoping for a new post every single day. Love you girl!!
Nik
“That should clear things up.”
Nicely played, Joy. Yay 5!
meredith s.
I check your blog every. single. day. and I literally get giddy with excitement every time. When I go to any sort of party now—most of my friends ask which of your recipes I tried this time!
Thank you for taking the time to find the beautiful things in life. As always…this post was just the monday pick-me-up I needed.
ps. “Meet Joy the Baker” is on my 2013 goals list….North Carolina is waiting for you!
Kiki
Happy Birthday to the Joy the Baker blog! Congrats to you, five years is a HUGE accomplishment. Here’s to another bazillion years of wonderful posts, pretty photos, and mouth-watering recipes. Seriously, you rock.
p.s. I’m not thirty yet, but I look forward to that thirtysomething list. And I really need to try that cinnamon pullapart bread. Cinnamon and bread are two of my fave foods.
Christy @ My Invisible Crown
The pepper jack grilled cheese sandwich is what grabbed me and dragged me over to your site to become a loyal reader! Congrats on 5 amazing years. And let’s cheers to 50 more? Or something like that. Headed to New Orleans where I spend tons and tons of my time with the Hubs who still works there and has family there and rides in the biggest, most awesome super parade there is next weekend for Margi Gras so there will be an embarrassing amount of over eating. I’ve accepted it. It’s what we do when it’s Mardi Gras. Thanks again for sharing your life with us!!
Tiffany
5 years! Half of a decade, Girl! Way to go!!!
Sara
Congrats! I just started following about a year ago and now I don’t know what I’d do without your blog and cookbook! When I need to make something yummy that I know will be a hit, you’re my go to :) thank you!
Mark Van Dine
Congratulations to you! It is great when something you love to do works out so well and provides so much to so many! We missed seeing you in Boston when you came through on the book tour, but we have your book and look forward to more. Wishing you a great future!
And the Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread is AWESOME. And the Oatmeal Cookies with chocolate nibs, and the Roasted Strawberry/Buttermilk Skillet Cake, and …
Maddy
Way to go Joy! It has been so much fun reading this blog and I look forward to the next 5 years!
Mazel Mazel
Ale
Congrats Joy, your blog is great; I found it just recently and I had already started baking some of the goods you had share in here. Love it!!!
Adriene
I am usually just a lurker, but I wanted to congratulate you….I am one of those people who found you due to another site’s link to the cinnamon pull apart bread (which I finally made this past November, can you say numiny? I knew you could)….I have been a regular and a subscriber ever since. Thanks for being so open and so true.
JoAnn C.
so glad to be weird right along with you.
Rita
Happy anniversary Joy!! I have been following you for quite awhile and I always enjoy your posts. Love your cookbook too!
Sheila
Hooray! Thank you for being here!
Courtney @ Neighborfood
We wouldn’t be here without you! Thank you for making us hungry, making us laugh, and making us better human beings. Here’s to five more years!
Melinda
Your stalker fan in McKinney Texas is so grateful for you! Thanks for bringing real life and levity to the food world. Your recipes are among our favorites and you really have brought much awesome to our world.
Celia
Congratulations and thank YOU!! You’re a major inspiration to me. I broke in my food processor this weekend shredding loads of carrots to make your Kitchen Sink Carrot Cake, complemented entirely with your Cream Cheese Frosting. I took it to a friend’s birthday party, but kept some frosting left over, just in case… I put my leftover pineapple into a green smoothie. Carrot cake + green smoothie = balance, right? The cake was a thousand pounds and so delicious! Thanks for sharing your recipes and love with me and the rest of the internet.
Allison (Spontaneous Tomato)
Congrats on 5 years! I don’t comment very often, but I read very regularly, and your blog is one of my absolute favorites. Best wishes for more successes in year 6!
Ivonne
Let people hate! That ex bf post is still one of my favorites. I like your photos and food mind you, but your relatable honesty is what keeps me coming back. Congrats!
Annie @ Annie's City Kitchen
Whoa, 5 years. That’s insane. To think you started as a girl who likes to bake and write (like me) and you’ve become a bona fide cookbook author (not like me), is inspiring. It makes me want to keep chugging along and doing what I love because it’ll all pay off in the long run.
Amy
Grateful for you and your voice in the world. Much love!
Grubarazzi (@Grubarazzi)
You are a joy to read! Happy 5th!
Monica
Love you Joy – you and your blog are bloody fantastic! Keep being marvellous :)
Misty Fuentes
Joy, congrats! And thank you for being so genuinely you in all your blogging. It’s inspiring seeing all you’ve accomplished in these 5 years. Rock-on baking sista!
Rachael •rachphillips.com•
I’ve only just discovered your blog but I love it. Good luck with the next 5 years!
Lola
Congratulations on your wonderfull blog Joy. I didn’t know I missed you until I stumbled across this site and now I come here almost on a daily basis. You inspired me to enjoy making good things for myself and the people around me. Thank you for that!
Claudia Barragan
Congratulations Joy! I love <3 your blog, you are the BEST!
Roselyn D
THANK YOU JOY! You are one of my favorite bloggers and every recipe that I have tried of yours has turned out!!!! Your cook book is beautiful and I love your wit and humor. Cheers to another 5 years!
Emily D
Happy Blog-anniversary, Joy!
Yours is one of the first food blogs I started reading, and it continues about five years into my own adventures in baking to be one of my favorites.
ileana
High five!!
Paige C
Thank YOU! Your blog is refreshing, fun, and inspiring, just like you! Your posts are frequently a highlight of my morning, sipping on my coffee, trying to wake up and start the day, and your recipes? Whoa. Happy anniversary!
Rachel
Thanks for bringing us yummy food with the most amusing commentary. I will read your blog forever. And when you get a tv show someday ill watch it!
Rachel F.
Congrats! High fives all around!
Stoich91
Can I just say that your blog is my favorite food blog EVER? And that I am so happy that I am officially weird, and I’m happy you reminded me about the cinnamon pull-apart stuff, and also you have just made my dreams of high-fiving you and your awesomeness come true, so yeah. Thanks for that, too. :D xoxoxoxo Here’s to many more years, less concrete vs electronics battles, and a dude who is WORTHY of holding hands with you (and also who likes adorable kitties).: D
Carol
Thank you! You are my (much younger) friend that makes me smile and sends me the kitchen to work our my angst. You are one of my mentors.
Gro
Congratulation on the five years. And thank you for sharing your fun words and thoughts, your beautiful pictures and your delicious recipes :)
Bev @ Bev Cooks
You rule it, Joy. Happy Blogiversary!
jennie
Happy 5th. I enjoy your site. you encourage me to want to try a blog myself.
j
Chelsey
Congractulations, Joy! Your blog has been so inspirational to my life since I found it two years ago. The fact that there are hate boards written about you makes me incredibly sad. Do not even think about them! :)
Fran
Yours is the ONLY blog I read daily, and look forward to every single morning. I appreciate what you do.
Lin
5 years of Joy…lucky for us and congrats! Your recipes give me inspiration to try new things and I love your humor and stories. Thank you for all that you share with us.
Lauren
**High Five Joy! Congratulations on 5 years!!!
Mel
Oh, that cinnamon pull-apart bread. It haunts my dreams!
robyn
you are amazeballs! thank YOU!
Cheryl Sammmons
You are the daughter that everyone wishes they had. I have 3 grown girls – Jodi-39, Kimberly-36, and Cynthia-32. You remind me so much of them. So as someone who see’s you as you are; a loving daughter, may you continue on your lifes journey and enjoy each bend in the road, even if you don’t know where it may lead you. I love your blog. Keep up the wonderful work!
Claudia
Felicidades! Thank you for being an inspiration to so many folks out in this big, crazy, beautiful world! I can’t even remember when I started reading your blog, but I know it’s been fun from day one :)
I’m just starting to carve out my own little space on the interwebs, and I’m grateful for lovely ladies like you who inspire us to create and dream! Thanks for sharing your first post too. It’s great to see how you’ve grown as a blogger. It reminds me to just keep going!
Luci's Morsels
A very sweet thank you post! And congratulations on five years – truly amazing to be inspired and to inspire through all those posts!
Luci’s Morsels – fashion. food. frivolity.
Jamie K
Congratulations on 5 years! I celebrate my 5 year anniversary at my company next month so I feel like 5 years is a heck of an accomplishment. The last time I celebrated 5 years of anything I was 5 years old… I believe I need to go make peanut butter and chocolate pudding to celebrate now.
Marie-Anne Duhem
You couldn’t have picked a better name… Joy… I so enjoy your posts. Thanks for making me smile or laugh and thank you for all the yummies you inspire us to make. Really looking forward to the next five years, and the next after that! Kudos xxx
Marie-Anne Duhem
I forgot: HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOY THE BAKER!
Christi
CONGRATULATIONS! There needs to be a food-related anniversary gifting system. Also, LOVE YOU, JOY! Is it too soon to say that? Do we need to meet face-to-face and shake hands first? Aw, shucks.
Jojo
Congratulations of your blog birthday! I’m such a big fan. Love the podcast. Love the blog. Love the cookbook. Here I am getting all excited about just writing on your blog post! I hope you write another book soon, so you can go on a book tour, come to the UK again and I can witness you’re ‘hot bod’ in real life! Haha! X
Sarah Cooke
Thank you, Joy! You helped give me the courage to start my own blog. When I’m not feeling creative, I read your blog for inspiration :)
Karen Lynch
Congratulations on 5 years and hopefully many more to come.
My Kids Mom
You made me curious about my blog anniversary, which I’d never looked up. I went to see when I’d written pookandbug.blogspot.com the first time. And it was exactly, five years ago, today. ‘Fraid I don’t have the readership you have, but then again, I don’t have cinnamon sugar pull-apart bread.
Maria
Yeah girl! Thank you for sharing your talent! Yours was one of the first blogs I subscribed to when I discovered the wonder of blogs four years ago!
The slow pace
Actually, thank YOU! Your blog is fun, honest and full of nice treats. It can’t get better than this! But if it does, I will be here to see it!!
Hilary
congrats, joy! here’s to another five (raising an imaginary bourbon to you — only cause it’s not quite 10 am here ;) )
Claire
Congrats and thank you for the best posts, stories and recipes.
Kory
Congrats!! Your blog is definitely one of my favorites! And I jut read the post about turing 21..tons of great advice in there! Thanks!
Lindsay @ The Live-In Kitchen
Congrats on five years! I’m glad you’re here!
Liz @ Tip Top Shape
Thank YOU for sticking around all this time and providing such wonderful recipes! If I need to bake something your blog is always one of the first ones I check!
Shushmi
I love your blog. I love the changes and the ups and downs you share with us. Here’s to the next five years and more! hoorah! :)
Bryn
This remains my favorite food blog – it’s the perfect mix of mostly-vegetarian savory bits and lovely my-favorite-flavors-ever sweets! Thanks Joy, and heres to another 5 years!
bakerkat
Congratulations and here’s to wonderful years ahead. High Five returned.
I’m so glad I found your blog. I don’t remember how I found your blog but it was a great day. I would not miss your blog and I love your cookbook.
Happy to know you and your blog.
Amanda
congrats on five years! love what you do!
JamieK
Looking forward to 5 more years of wonderful recipes and stories!
Gayle E
I so enjoy starting my early-morning days with your posts. You make me smile, and cry, and eat <3 Keep on bloggin' Joy! Congrats on fives years, looking forward to the days and years ahead.
-gayle.
Abby
Congratulations! Looking forward to reading many more posts. (Even if they are misspelled.)
cindy
maybe you know, maybe you don’t…but I’ve been following since the beginning, I began my blog the same year.
2008 seems like a billion years ago, congrats on 5 big years!
Abby @ The Frosted Vegan
congrats Joy! What an inspiration you’ve been to me and my journey in blogging, here’s to 5 more!
Jennie
you are the bee’s knees. thank YOU for being amazing, hilarious & inspring! congrats on 5 years & here’s to many more!
Anne-Marie Field
Joy, congrats on 5 years! You’re a bright spot in my day. Keep being your joyful self online and in real life. I’ll keep reading.
taylor @ taylormade
Absolutely love this post, and the opportunity to reminisce on some old posts. I’ve been following you for a couple of years now, and you really inspire me. I recently started my own little blog, and while I know my corner of the internet will be much smaller than yours, I don’t mind. Thanks for being great, Joy :)
Sophie
Your blog was the one of the very first blogs I started to follow. You are an amazing writer, and I’m always coming back for more.
It was because of your blog that I was inspired to start my own, and I hope to achieve half of what you have :)
Congratulations on five years!!
x
Loretta brooks
Hi Joy,
Congratulationstions on your 5 year anniversary! I discovered you last year via another food site and joined your site even though I don’t like ito bake. You are a wonderful writer whose personality comes through In all you do and say. Although I’m 76 years young, reading your blog……and I had to learn what a blog was…. Is something I look forward to all the time. I’ve even found things I’d like to bake and I’m off to do the pull apart cinnamon bread! Keep up those happy, creative thoughts and never change …… Unless you want to????
Ann
Congratulations joy! I just recently discovered you and plan to go back and read every post! You’re a talent!
Bobbi
Congratulations! I love your blog and hope you are here for a long time.
Lauren at Keep It Sweet
Happy 5 years, Joy! Yours was one of the first food blogs I found and I have always enjoyed reading your posts and drooling over your photos and recipes. Congrats on so much success!
Susan Levin
Congratulations. At 59 and baking for years you have stimulated my creativity and have made me smile a whole lot more
Your cookbook joins my 3 yr old granddaughter and I in many forays into the kitchen. It is vanilla and butter stained and a cherished possession for her to inherit some day!!!!
Thank you Joy!!
neev
Hi Joy,
I Sarted my blog ard the same time as you after having my second child. Being home alone with her and spending too much time on the comp got me into this blogging world.
But unlike yr blog mine never took off.
Thats ok because I know some day my lil one who is almost 5 will read my lil stories abt what I baked and view all pics taken….someday.
I too have baked lots of cupcakes, cookies, scones and cakes in these past 5 years. My kitchen aid has been hard at work with me.
Anyway CONGRATULATIOSN on your 5 years and hope you have many more anniversaries in 5s to come.
NEEV
Jessie
Congrats on 5 years Joy!! Looking forwards to the next five!! Love your blog and all your fun!!
Heather @ SugarDish(Me)
Your blog is seriously one of my favorites ever ever ehvuuuur. It is one of the first food blogs I ever read and I love it. Your recipes are amazing, but more than that I come here to read the things you write and appreciate your take on the world around you. THANK YOU!!! And happy 5 years.
Becca - Cookie Jar Treats
Congrats on your five years. :) I remember stumbling onto your blog. I just kept reading post after post after post until I got to the very beginning, something I only do for the blogs I really love.
I love all your quirky stories and your delicious-looking food and beautiful pictures. I love everything about this blog. <3
ANGELA
High Five! Just as grateful that you the weird girl whose making her way and loving the journey. You are my inspiration! I”m weird girl – 10 years older. Luv you!
meg h.
Happy Anniversary! I fell into your blog – I think via Pioneer Woman. And somehow your writing style made me smile and your love of butter and sugar kept me coming back. My daughters LOVE your cookbook. We’ve worked through a good chunk of it together. Keep it up – keep smiling, posting, and cooking! (And please come to DC – you have 3 young fans dying to meet you!)
Jeannine DiBart
I’ve never commented before (I know, so wrong of me!!!) but I really need to tell you how much your blog and podcasts mean to me. I love your food, writing, photographs, and am slightly obsessed! That sounds creepy but I’m not:) Just a stay-at-home mom who appreciates what you do and the time you put into making your world so fun to be a part of:)
Taylor
Happy Birthday Joy the Baker Blog!
Joy, I think you’re so awesome and a really excellent, creative and inspiring writer, baker and photographer . . Really, I mean it. Thanks for making me laugh, salivate, and ponder some super deep stuff over the past five years.
BTW, I really love the water colour stuff you’ve been doing!
And Congratulations!!
Marie
Congrats!
Most important, thanks for being here and sharing with us since 5 years. It’s always a pleasure to see a new post. I love reading your post when I take my breakfast “did she post something? oh yeaaah, new post, it’s a good day!”
You can’t leave us anymore! :p
Jennifer
Here’s to hoping you have many more years! I love reading your blog, making your recipes, flipping through your book, and rooting for you. Happy five years!
Joan
Congrats on five years. I’m happy I found you, I think a little over a year ago. I’ll have to make one of your recipes soon to celebrate. I’m working my way through your book and blog too. Sat. I made the Oatmeal Cookie Pancakes from your book and my son and hubby couldn’t thank me enough. Thanks and I’ll be waiting to see what wonderful recipes and wisdom you have for us in the coming year. Hopefully another cookbook someday too.
Jayne
Thank you, joy. You’re the source of many blogging inspirations. I’ve always known i wanted to start my own food blog. But I am not eloquent, had no extra cash for a fancy camera and am basically an awkward human being. About 3 months ago, I took the plunge and now realize even with misspelling, only a phone camera and incoherent rambling, it’s my passion for food that keeps it fun. I want to document my journey whether or not anyone sees it. Thanks for keeping it real for unsure newbies like me.
Paulette
In five year you have accomplished a lot. You should be very proud of yourself. High five to five years. But most of all you probably have inspired young and old (especially me very old) to think about writing and creating their own blog. Inspiration to others is a gift, a talent. Yes be proud that you are awe inspiring to the many fans who love your recipes, your highs and lows of life and the time you take to share your life with us all. Congrats to you Joy and keep those ideas flowing so the rest of us can dream and soar with you. Hugs Paulette
Vickie
awesome, congrats on 5 years :)
Paula @ Vintage Kitchen
You´re authentic and funny and consistent in your messages Joy, congrats on these five years, you deserve every bit of success! And a great baker too, of course!
Irene
Congratulations, Joy!
I don’t spend much time reading blogs, but yours is one of the few exceptions I read every time you publish. I hope I can keep reading your for many more!
Irene
PS: Your pull-apart bread is definitely one of my favorite recipes from your blog. It was a total success!!!
Amanda Bimble
Happy anniversary! What an amazing journey you’ve had. It’s been a pleasure to check in over the last few years :D May the next five be even more rad!
Aline
Best blog ever… hands down
Gaelle
Thank YOU m’dear. Ace recipes and excellent writing, this blog makes me chipper (and your recipes make my boyfriend love me a little bit more each time I suspect).
My god I’m all over that cinnamon bread at the weekend.
Happy anniversary.
Gaelle from London
Marialuisa
CONGRATULATIONS for such a beautiful blog. I love your récipes, your pictures and I´ve been following you for some months too.
You must be happy, I´m Reading you from Spain…yep…..in the north, in the basque country…..and you were thinking nobody was Reading you.
WELL DONE!!!! and keep doing so we can go on Reading.
Besos xxx
Marialuisa
Natalia
Thank you Joy for inspiring us so much… I have only known you for about 3 months (thanks to eatyourbooks.com) and you and Shutterbean have helped me through losing my job and the feeling that goes with it… I enjoy your podcast and your blogs so much. that you’ve inspired me to create a cooking blog too…
It’s in Spanish, I live in Barcelona I would love it if you visited it sometimes. I am planning to make a lot of your recipes!!!!
thank you and happy 5th birthday!!!!
Natalia
ups, I thought the blog address would show
its
http.//basmatilime.blogspot.com
Heather
Wow! Congratulations and happy anniversary to you. Thank you for the amazing posts, fabulous recipies, beautiful cat, and inspiration. And for reassuring me that we can find our way through this bonkers world. Here’s to the next five! Lots of love xxx
Dani H
Congratulations, Joy! I really cannot imagine the food blogosphere without you in it! Thank you for all your hard work!
kristen
congratulations and best wishes for the next five. i think you do a great job and i read almost 100% of your posts. you’ve got a great “voice”!
geo@geodoes
what a fantastic five years – congratulations! Your cinnamon pull apart bread is without a doubt one of my favourite things ever, it never sees an entire afternoon – it’s just too damn tasty. So my thighs and my stomach thank you!
Kena
Your amazing Joy! Just simply AH-mazing! Congrats and wishing you much more success with your blog. : )
Cheryl Coombes
Congratulations on five years and one amazing blog.
I devour every word and recipe – heres to the next five years :)
Yael
You and your blog are so lovely! Thank you for making the Internet a better place.
Congratulations from across the pond.
Come visit again soon.
Happy 2013! X
Sally - My Custard Pie
Joy – you were well-named. I know there’s some sad bits in here but you are so disingenuous that your joy for life and the little things is infectious. It’s what keeps us coming back. Thank YOU Joy.
Lee
Here’s to the next five – your posts make me so happy when they land in my inbox :-)
Sophie {The Cake Hunter}
You are my number one favourite blogger. I would never have started my blog last year had I not spent years reading these pages wishing I could do what Joy the Baker does and then thinking ‘why don’t i?’.
Thank you for being awesome!
Kathryn
Happy 5 years Joy, I hope you are going to celebrate with a day filled with cake xx
Emma @ Poires au Chocolat
Happy Five, Joy! I first found your blog just under four years ago – it’s funny to think how long ago that was – in both of our lives. I hope you have another fabulous five years and here’s to more butter and sugar!
Kate
I’ve been reading your blog since about April 2008 and it was the first food blog I truly loved. Thanks for sharing your food and your life with us.
Margot
I’ve been reading your blog for about two years, I guess, who knows. I guessed randomly. I really like you a lot and I feel like I know you. There’s probably a lot more to you, though.
I have made many of your recipes, but I’ve also skipped many, as I’ve been afraid they wouldn’t come out right (the pull-apart bread!).
But now you’ve given me courage to try those, too, and I will.
Thanks for the 21st birthday advice, too. I’m 22 now, I just read them right now, and although I have most of the points covered, I still needed to be reminded of some things, namely the last point.
Thanks.
Happy 5th anniversary!
Edina
Hello Joy,
few weeks ago I found ur blog, but just started to comment few days ago. So it is great to know that u have this blog for five years. Amazing and Congratulations! I started mines five months ago and I cant imagine how it will be in five years….
It was so great to read what things u live trough in this five years and I like the way u are writing.
Have a nice and creative week and if u got some free minutes visit me and tell me what u think abt my blog, that would mean a lot.
NR!
nileta
happy b.day to your blog!
you ‘ve been such a good company the last 5 years.
here’s to the next 5!
Angela @ the fairy bread chronicles
joy i can honestly say you are such an inspiration to us all here in the crazy-ass world of food blogs. you’re one of the best!!
marissa @ the boot
this was just too sweet. congratulations and cheers to another happy five!
eRiN
Your blog is one of my favorite places to visit on the internet! I don’t know that I’ve ever commented before … but definitely wanted to congratulate you on 5 steady years of following your dreams. Also, more kitty pictures? ;-)
Aeshna
Thank YOU for making this blog so consistently awesome over 5 years.
You rock.
Amy
Congrats on your success, Joy! I’ve been reading your blog for a year and a half and enjoy your stories, pictures, and trying out your delicious recipes!
Michelle
Congrats lady. I appreciate everything that you do. That cinnamon pull-apart bread blew my grandma’s mind. She still talks about it! Thank you for inspiring the wonderful memory!
Lauren Burkitt
Congratulations on your success, reading that post made me really excited. I came across your blog just last week when Susannah Conway left a link to your ‘On Juicing’ post. I watched your video and love how sincerely passionate you are about what you do. I look forward to watching your podcasts and trying out your recipes at home! Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent.
Life is sweet! Nice to meet you.
Averie @ Averie Cooks
Congrats on 5 years, Joy! What a milestone! I’ve read every post since year 4. I’ve loved watching/seeing/hearing about your life, the recipes, your book, and everything else you share. Keep up the amazing work and I love this post – the highlights and that bread, oh that pull apart bread, it’s on my bucket list!
Nicole
Happy Anniversary! I’d say more about how great I think your site is and all that, but all I can think about is why I have never seen that Pepperjack Grilled Cheese Sandwich before. So, I have to go there NOW.
Rima @ Bolu by Rima
your blog inspires me to be a better blogger & baker :)
happy 5 years!!
Sarah
I want to say I’ve been following you for three years now and I’m so happy every time I read one of your posts! You have such a great voice to your blog and you’re really just a hoot and a half! To five more years!
x missdottidee.blogspot.com
Jo
High-five fellow weirdo! Thanks for all the awesome recipes and entertaining podcasts. Cheers to many more years of fun blogging!
=)
Danny Nicolas
No, thank you! This blog is one of the few left on my subscribed list. You offer the right amount of personal flavor, recipes, and great photos. I hope you continue to share your loves with the rest of us.
Kay
Happy 5 Years! It’s always fun for me to look back at the beginning of amazing blogs like yours. It’s so inspirational to see how far you’ve come (and allows me to be a bit easier on myself, since I’m just at the beginning of my journey). Thanks for all that you do!
Birdie
Congrats on the big 5 Joy! Just today I was flipping through your book and whipped up a batch of s’more borwnies, then proceded to eat them for dinner. Be proud! :) Keep doing what you’re doing, we are all looking forward to hearing from you and about your shenanigans
Keri
Congrats! looking forward to the next 5 as well!
Anna
Happy anniversary! Your blog looks really inspiring. I have only just started two weeks ago. Hooked already, so much fun. But nowhere near as cool as yours of course. Love your photography :)
Anna
Laura (Tutti Dolci)
Huge congrats on 5 years, Joy! :)