Hello my darling friends.
I’ve bombarded you with a ton of melted cheese, buttered popcorn, and chocolate chunks lately. ย I feel like we haven’t had the proper amount of time to catch up.
Can we just take a breath together. ย Maybe have an extra cup of coffee or another half glass of wine? ย Let’s absorb this Wednesday the best way we know how.
You may or may not know that I’m currently working on my second cookbook. ย It’s a blessing. ย It’s totally exciting. ย It’s a dream come true x 2.
I’ve heard people compare writing a book to giving birth to a child. ย I get it. ย Writing a book is laborious and time-consuming and… actually, I totally don’t get it, nevermind.
I haven’t had any back pain or swollen ankles or excruciating pain while writing this book. ย Although… I’d like to sign up for an epidural here and now, if you’re offering (which you aren’t).
You know what happens when you have a baby? ย It comes out and people are STOKED. ย You know what happens when you write a book? ย It comes out and people write a review on Amazon.
I was doing some deep thinking this morning while washing the dishes produced from a failed pie recipe testing session…. writing a book is exactly like this for me: ย I get dressed up, fancy but not tooooo fancy, to go to a friend of a friend’s party. ย (stay with me… this is a very detailed analogy… there were a lot of dishes to do). ย I’m wearing an outfit I feel pretty confident in, but I’m wearing my favorite, wear-them-waaaay-too-often flats because I’m interested in foot comfort on this particular evening. ย I get to the party and (to my horror) discover they this particular house has instituted a no-shoes-in-the-house policy. ย Gracious Lord in heaven please help me.
First panic: ย I know I don’t have a pedicure on these feet, and things are starting off a little less than perfect. ย Second panic: Do.My.Feet.Stink!? ย I have no way of knowing…. AND! ย Since this is my very own anxiety nightmare, I can’t go to the bathroom to check, I can’t leave the party, I can’t insta-pedicure my feet… I just have to sit with the self I’ve created.
Writing a book is EXACTLY like taking your shoes off at a party and hoping your feet don’t stink… or hoping people don’t notice that your feet stink. ย Replace ‘feet’ with the word ‘book’ if you aren’t following my (totally ridiculous) train of thought. ย You spend months and months writing a thing, preparing it for the world, trying your best to make it what you want it to be…. and at the end of the day, you just have to take your shoes off and hope to God they don’t (and your dang BOOK doesn’t) totally stink.
It’s just that. ย It really is.
Aren’t SO many things like that in life? ย You understand, I know you do.
In other news, I’m working on a pie chapter and I need you to come over and help me eat the pies that don’t stink. ย Sidenote: ย I should have a bake sale.
In addition to writing a lot, and freaking out a little (and OVERSHAING!)… I’m reading a few books. ย Words going out of my brain means I need to put some words back in my brain. ย I think it’s math or something.
I’m currently reading:
Lean In. ย You know… that totally controversial women’s empowerment book written by ย Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg. ย I’m glad someone is saying the words she has said about women in the workplace. ย They seem to be fighting words, but you can judge for yourself.
Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald. ย Zelda was a fascinating woman and I am so enjoying this book. ย It was spawned by my love of F.Scott and my recent reading of The Paris Wife (which was sooooo good). ย Also, if I have a daughter, I’m naming her Zelda… I called it.
Lastly, I’m rereading The Great Gatsbyย because it’s better than anything that will ever come out of my brain for as long as I live. ย Sometimes it’s nice to drown in that sort of work. ย Also, the Baz Luhrmann film is coming out this May and I’m a little more than completely obsessed.
Mostly though, I’m testing pies, mixing cocktails, trying to make a lovely book even though it feels like a fight right now… and really, I wouldn’t change a thing (but maybe I would). ย I so appreciate that you are here with me. ย With my whole heart that’s true.
Note: ย The top picture in the post is a recipe test for a Vegan Grapefruit Pie inspired by this recipe by Sprouted Kitchen. ย (It was a fail.)
(other) Note: ย The photos in this post were taken with my iPhone and tweaked using Instagram, VSCO, and Diptic…. in case you were curious.
…oh man.
167 Responses
Your book was and is a treasure. It holds the tried and true non-optional, non-pumpkin dessert of my family’s Thanksgivings. It holds my sister’s favorite cookies. It holds my favorite frosting recipe which I make on occasion just to eat from the bowl with a spoon. I know we’re all talkin’ about Over Easy now but I love love love my first JTB cookbook!
I love to read every word you write and your book will be wonderful, can’t wait. You come through with your care and love for what you do and wanting for us to enjoy it. Would love to send you one of my baking tools. You might like it, changes how you make pies…just let me know. Thank you for being you.
Your new book will be amazing…just like the last! I just know it.:) If it makes you feel any better I am working on a cookbook collaboration myself right now and can completely relate to what you are going through. Sending lots of love and positive energy from Long Beach!
I love your blog, your aesthetic and recipes, but PLEASE PLEASE read what bell hooks has to say about “Lean In” https://thefeministwire.com/2013/10/17973/
I really liked your analogy of stinky feet and things in life. Very true.
In other news, what is that washi taped to your kitchen wall? Is it a recipe?
Thanks for the book list and u r so right about the book,..:)
The stinky-feet analogy? Love it & totally get it. That’s me every Sunday at the free community yoga class. We take off our shoes, bend over our feet on our mats and I stare at my chipped pedicure from weeks ago and hope my feet don’t also smell…
Love your blog :)
Joy! Thank for describing EXACTLY what I feel since opening my pie shop! I have been using the baby analogy for months but shoeless at a party is SO much more accurate (also my biggest pet peeve of life is being asked to remove your shoes without warning – see excellent Sex and the CIty ep. about this).
I alternate between these 3 thoughts: “I’m really lucky,” “I’m really tired” and “How was your pie, did you like it?”
Every time I come over to your blog, I’m always blown away by how open you are and that you own it so well. This is why people come back and buy your cookbook(s), so hang in there! I always know that I can expect a laugh or two when I read one of your posts. You got this!
Oh, Joy. I can’t tell you what a deep breath this post gave me, even with all the stinky-foot talk. I’m currently writing my very first cookbook and on a daily basis think “Oh, I’ll have to ask Joy about that!” only to remember that you aren’t actually my friend and I can’t just call you up.
Are you weirded out yet?
Thank you for your honesty and your willingness to admit what you’re afraid of. I’ll keep cooking from your book and checking in here for inspiration and waiting patiently for your next masterpiece.
Love,
Cara
That’s why when I take my shoes off in public I always turn them over before placing them down. Then I hope I didn’t step in anything – it’s a vicious cycle. Your cookbook is awesome by the way – I love that it reads like a blog – I feel attached to all the recipes as I’m reading them. Best of luck on book 2. Oh, and if I lived closer to LA, I’d totally take you up on this.
Don’t worry about oversharing and being stinky! We’re all stinky somehow, and we’re usually too busy with being around your sweet personality that we don’t notice anyway! And I’d MUCH rather overshare than undershare. Helps make me feel normal. ;)
Your readers will most likely be buying your book, and they will love you and support you no matter what the critics have to say about it. Plus, your recipes are awesome, so there is no way this book is gonna stink! :)
just want you to know i would totally come over and help you eat pie. i’d even bring a cocktail! there’s a blackberry-bourbon combo kicking around in my brain and i think it deserves to be realized. a blackberry julep, maybe? to go with gatsby?
i can’t wait for your book – i bet it’s going to be amazing!
xo, cheyenne
Dude. Bake sale. . That’dddddd be bonkers awesome. I just turned from breakfast to write to you. And my cat stole the bacon off my plate. Seriously. So psyched for your next book!
Can’t wait for cookbook #2! I’m still drooling over your first one, but bring it on! I’m reading Lean In too and really enjoying it. . .it’s been rather inspiring for me, on a confidence level. Hugs to you . ..
Joy, please, please, please have a bake sale!
I’m with you on the feet thing. Your host should have let the guests know beforehand about going barefoot. I’ve lived overseas where wearing shoes inside is a no no. But most who cook know that being barefoot in the kitchen is a major safety flaw. We have a rule in this house, if you’re in the kitchen, you have something on your feet.
Burns, glass and knives oh my. Hot food accidentally spilled on Keds is much easier to take than on bare footsies.
I love going barefoot. Even outside. But NOT in the kitchen.
Always happy to hear from another Gatsby fan rave about the book! ^_^
It’s nice to know I’m not the only one who struggles when writing blog posts. Can’t wait for your next cookbook – of course it will be amazing!
You know what pie is amazing? This pie:
https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-chocolate-chess-pie-141462?utm_campaign=topblock&utm_medium=web&utm_source=thekitchn-recipe
I am so STOKED for your next cookbook! And I know I am not the only one. When your first one came out I went out to get it, came home, and sat on my couch to read it cover to cover. Can’t wait to do it again!
yesterday, you came for a visit to my place, took off your shoes, and made your extra crumb coffee cake. I’m here to report that your feet smell of cinnamon, nutmeg and buttery, sugary goodness.
If this makes any sense to you, even adorable babies stink sometimes – it’s all part of their charm ;-)
May the force be with you!
I adore that analogy. Somehow that also fits in with the way I think about first dates with new guys, too. I’d rather have a pie than think about that. ;)
So I feel the same way about reading when I write. I like your suggestions! I have always felt reading great writers improved my writing…
There is no way your second book could stink! I have your first one and it is A+mazing (as Mariah Carey has been saying on American Idol)!! I love everything you do…your book, your blog, your podcast…love it all!!
Your book won’t stink. Your first one rocked not just my world … but the entire food world ( that may sound a little dramatic … but let’s go with it).
Also, your Joy. And you’re pretty rad. Rad people = Rad books.
And I always worry about shoeless parties, my shoes are part of my outfit … my feet are naked. Problem.
Girl, You got this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-gQLqv9f4o
Oh Joy, I completely understand what you mean! I am in fact just writing my first cookbook myself, which will come out with my first TV show later this year..! It’s so exciting but absolutely terrifying! I hope my “feet” won’t stink on national TV….
All the best to you, can’t wait to get my hands on your second book!
x Anne
I totally get it about the book/feet stink situation. I finished a novel I’ve been working on for entirely too long (perfectionist much) and just put together a team of test readers before I start querying agents…and I’m petrified!
Your first book and your blog are wonderful and I know the next one will be too.
I would be more than glad to eat some of the pies you’ve been making! Sounds like you’re crazy busy, good luck on the book!
Looking forward to the new book, Tanja
I had a baby shortly after your first book was published. I got a ton of well wishes and amazingly sweet presents. And lots and lots of critiques. Oh my goodness… you keep your baby up that late? You co-sleep? Where are his socks? Etc. Etc. Creating beauty… through life or butter or art…. opens one up for criticism. But it is worth it. And your book is AMAZING. You should be very proud.
there will always be critics in life….whether it be parenting or authoring (is that a word?) just do the best you can and do you…everything will work out just fine…….I have your first cookbook and you have nothing to worry about!
oh good look for new book..
Not Only Sugar
You are amazing! end note.
Gatsby is one of my all-time favorite novels. How can the world not be perfect when you’re reading that. And I can’t wait to read Z. I find Zelda so fascinating. They just loved to call emotional women crazy back then. Because feeling things obviously made you insane. Hence why we still need the Sharyl Sandbergs of the world.
You know what’s up.
Joy, that was what I needed to read. You are so real, we would so be best friends in real life. I came here because I’ve been a slacker in cooking lately and it is a creative outlet for me and I need it back. So I came to you wondering what you were cooking up over here, and got a good laugh. Thanks Joy, it is always fun to come by here.
Joy you are the best and your first cookbook is out of this world!! I CANNOT wait for book number two… It will be amazing just like you!!
Great analogy – its so nice to hear someone express (so much more articulately hah) how you are feeling. Not that I’m writing a cookbook but everyone can relate to the overwhelming anxiety and panic of creating something. It’s always a joy reading your personal posts, almost as much as creating the dishes from your others.
If this next book is anything like the first then it’s going to be brilliant!
Another cookbook!?!?!?! I have barely scratched the surface of your first cookbook! Go! Go! Go! Keep them coming!
You just said it best. And Amazon? OMG so nervous. Can’t wait to bake from your second book. VERY excited.
You are great. We are all cheering for you and your new book!!
Amen to this post. Although I don’t have any clue what writing a book/having a baby is like, I think a lot of commenters around me still have that posting-anxiety with their food blog. Recently my heartache/stinky feet has been my improvement with my blog pictures but lack of success with recipes. It is heartening to know that in the blogsphere someone else is having the same problem – and that you learn and move on and drink far too many cups of tea to compensate. Can’t wait for the new book Joy, if its anything like the first it will be a really rad pedicure.
Joy!!!1 Joy joy joy- there is some jenesaisquoi about your blog talk that engages me… perhaps its the photos I adore ( I do) or your writing style (delicious). I too just read The Paris Wife ( I live in Key West part time and am interested in all things Hemingway) and I loved it so! Love the energy and mystique of that time in the world. I will now read Zelda on your recommendation. Having said all this, hmmmn, I rarely make your recipes ( this is humorous, non ma chere?) because I am mostly vegan and muchly raw-but, once in awhile, I do! So THERE!
Nonetheless I am in love with you-as a writer, reader and cook-er.
I love that you’re here!
so……
………i’m a graduate student in training to become a professor which is translation for scholar….which is translation for “you’re going to write a shit load of books and articles” otherwise you can’t have tenure.
so i TOTALLY get the writing book thing. totally. a dissertation is basically writing a book, right?
i loved your weird feet analogy.
on a side note: i’m totally that person. i totally make people take their shoes off in my home.
Joy, your cookbook is the only cookbook I’ve ever pre-ordered so I could have it AS SOON as it came out. I’m sure I will do the same for the second one. I’m so excited that’s happening!
I’d love to know how you deal with recipe failures. I’m sure there must be a lot that goes wrong when testing them for a book. Or am I the only one who throws a minor temper tantrum when things don’t go my way when baking?
This was an awesome post, Joy. I somehow follow your train of thought which is scary/awesome. Or scary awesome. I am so so excited for your new book. Congrats!
Tip: Sit cross-legged with your feet tucked under if you think your feet smell. Not sure how this method applies to the book situation.
xo Jess
about 42,000 years ago when my husband and i were dating, we went to the drive-in. a lot. we smooched and even watched the movie. “take your shoes off and get comfortable,” he’d say often. “No, thanks.” it wasn’t until after he popped the question that i felt it was safe enough to take my shoes off and reveal my stinky feet. he married me and my stinky feet.
i love your voice and your recipes.
all the best… susie
Love you, Joy! You can do this!! Have that book baby!! (It’s gonna be totally cute. Not stinky.) xo
Joy, I have to say some of my favorite posts of yours are these, the completely honest, heart felt, a little emotional, visual stories. Thank you for sharing.
Joy you are amazing and with all the hard work, wine, and charming personality and cooking talent you have – you book is going to ROCK XOXO …
Love this post. I’m also obsessed with Gatbsy, can’t wait for the movie to come out, and re-reading the book!
I am happily cooking my way through your first amazing cookbook and can’t wait for your second cookbook ! love all things Joy the Baker :)
You are delightful, and your book will be great! I love your recipes. And your sense of humor! Word.
Joy,
You rock. It’s a total bummer that pie didn’t turn out because it was totally lovely. Maybe you should try orange instead? (Clementine pie? Wouldn’t have be cute.) Keep up the bad-a$$ery! ( <– Because ladies don't swear)
Kait
your book is the best. good for reading, baking, and gifting!
can.t wait for another one.
try putting some ice cream in your coffee, its good for your heart and for your soul.
Oh Joy.
I would tell you not to stress, but I’m feeling it might be futile. So instead I will tell you that your book will not stink. I say this with complete confidence because your food is amazing. I swear by any recipe you suggest, the food will be good, let’s make it. I also know your book won’t stink because your writing is also very enjoyable. While I don’t know how much time you actually put into writing a blog post, or chapter, I know that I walk away from it EVERY time feeling like I’m not alone. Like someone else out there sometimes gets exactly what I’m feeling, and can make me laugh and/or smile because “NO way! She just said that and I swear it makes complete perfect fantastic sense in my brain”.
I have your first book. I love it. My mom stayed with us for a month when I had my 2nd little boy and once leaving immediately bought your book because she loved it.
I will buy your next book, and I will love it and treasure it and make delicious food following your wonderful instruction and a small grin of understanding.
I can’t wait.
*Having said all this, I cannot say with certainty that your feet don’t stink, but I am sure that most of the people wouldn’t care about your pedicure-free toes. :)
Very excited for a second book from you! Love, love, love your first book – and already have some nicely stained pages (that french toast!!). I know 3 girls who will love a second book to bake from – they have worked through quite a bit of your book. A family favorite. You can do it! And yeah, childbirth is a whole lot easier with the epidural. The part that hurt the most – removing the tape that held the epidural drip in place. Ouch! (Book bonus – no poopy diapers and no 3 am feedings!)
Just finished The Great Gatsby for the second time – always a favorite!
I’m (finally) reading The Paris Wife right now! Love it and cannot wait to read Z. I sort of want to go back in time to live in Paris in the ’20’s….or, I’d also love to come to the west coast and taste test your pies! Can’t wait for your next book :)
Help I need the blond bloody mary recipe from the shrimp and polenta event this week.
you’re doing it right, ms. lady! what an amazing thing to build something “bigger than yourself”. it wasn’t until i got older that i realized the weight of that phrase and of that intention. it’s definitely not easy, but you’re doing it right because you’re doing it your way. keep it up and keep sharing with us. xo
Your first cookbook is still one of my top favorites. No joke. And I own a bajillion cookbooks. Seriously. As a baking blogger, I collect cookbooks to no end (you know the drill) and yours is still right on the top of my stack of “I’ll read this one again and again.”
Speaking of, want to send me a copy to review on my blog? ;)
I know, I know, it’s probably all held through your publisher…but I’d love it if you could!
I received your first book as a gift and I LOVE it! I am excited that you’re doing another book, although I am sure it is very stressful.
How do you read more than one book at a time??? I’ve never been able to do that :)
I so understand that moment. It’s terrifying. But hey, better to take the risk than to miss the party, right? And I suspect there is going to be some major partying when that cookbook comes out. I know I’ll join you–with a glass of Champagne (actually no because I hate champagne, but I’ll have a mojito) and a noisemaker.
Girl, I totally get the stinky feet analogy. That’s exactly how I feel every time I put out a collection. (I’m the owner/designer of a small clothing label, Katastrophic (www.katastrophicdesign.etsy.com) ). Well, let me just tell you that so far, your feet smell LOVELY. Actually they smell like brownies in the over. Joy, there is no way you should be worrying so much about this book. It’s going to be so good, and even if for some reason someone out there doesn’t like it and writes you a bad review, you know there are so many of us that just love you and what you do. So carry on!
Keeping it real, per the usual. Love it!
Joy, your transparency is inspiring. So often in the blogging world, we assume that everyone’s final creation was as easy as microwave popcorn. I appreciate your honesty in sharing that this process is much more difficult than that and yet seeing your drive & enthusiasm to push on. You can do it! And you will greatly succeed. xo.
P.S. If you truly need someone to come test pies for you, my tastebuds are excellent and for hire.
I love your analogy – the things we (I) worry about! I would be highly uncomfortable in that situation, but your response is brilliant – we just have to sit with the self we’ve created. yup. I’ve never written a book, and i don’t plan to, but sometimes all we’ve got, no matter what the situation, is hope. Here’s hoping for a successful pie in the short term and a successful book in the long term. i truly enjoy your blog!
I enjoy your sharing and amazon/baby having analogies. I am happy to know you are writing another cookbook! Congratulations, super cool.
I am also super excited because I get to meet you at BTPL!
I will come help you eat all the pies – except the fails. I trust your judgement. :)
Have you read some of the letters from Zelda to FScott? Her writing is uh-maze-ing. She is so fascinating.
her writing is gorgeous!!!
Like all the other comments, I’m sure your new cookbook will be a great success, especially if it is sprinkled with your honest humour! Yeah, ok, whoever said writing a book is like having a baby…never had a real baby! :)
Happy reading, cooking, and writing!!
I am totally certain that any book from a voice like yours will be nothing but great, but thanks for sharing that even you can feel a little insecure at times! Fan-love from Kristina
oh, girl i SO feel you on the feet front. luckily i live in massachusetts and haven’t seen my legs or feet in months, due to a sweater tights addiction. ignorance is bliss, yo.
I’m totally cool with coming over and eating pie! Keep the books coming Joy, not only do we love your writing voice, but we love your recipes. If you love what you make, share it and other will love it. Those bad reviews…well no matter what business you’re in you get them. It’s a lesson of taking the bad with the good. Get in there and bake-it-up girl!
I’m ALSO re-reading the Great Gatsby and Z in prep for the movie that my friends and I are unashamedly obsessed with. A daily topic of conversation and we’re even splurging and going to the 21 and up theater so we can drink fancy cocktails while the characters do…
you do what you do, homegirl.
oh my goodness! you’re doing everything right!
I’ve been following different lines of conversation about “Lean In” online, and it’s interesting to read the various opinions…guess I need to get my behind to the bookstore to get a copy.
Will you be sharing more of what you think about that book when you’ve finished it? (I know, I know…people come for the cooking and the awesomeness of your personality…but books are important, too!)
Happy pie-baking! =)
You inspire me.
And you remind me that it’s ok to prefer to make a cookbook more than a baby.
Joy,
This very post is the reason why I ADORE you so… Your ability to be vulnerable, charming, witty and funny… All while whipping up amazing baked treats…. Joy, YOU are purely DELICIOUS! I just know your next book will be as irresistible as your first one… And I can’t wait to gobble it up!
Oh, and if you’re still looking for someone to come over and help you eat those pies?!?… Just let me know when, and I’ll be there at your door, grocery bags in hand, ready to cook us up something yummy to go with your pies. Or better yet why don’t you come over to my place?!? I’ll have a comfy pair of fuzzy socks or pretty house slippers waiting for you… Which ever is you fancy… ;-) And if by chance, your feet really do stink…. I’ll still ADORE you… stinky feet and all!
Love You,
Ann
I don’t know if this will even remotely make you feel better…but I don’t get at all excited about babies (unless I’m related to them, but even then it’s questionable), but I get totally excited about books. I’m way more likely to declare a book a success immediately than a baby…baby takes weeks (sometimes months) to start resembling cute human beings. Books are cute right off the bat.
That totally didn’t help, did it?
You got this.
I LOVED this post! It will be rough now but the ending result will make you soooo happy! FYI I’m always concerned with my feet stinking as well so no worries lol you aren’t the only one who thinks like this. I believe that this next book will be GREAT. No doubt in my mind.
Hey- we all need a little push and words of love from others and im sure you will be getting them via all of your fans. No, your book will not stink. I know its hard for you to believe because we are often so hard on ourselves. It will be great, your fans love you because they know you and your recipes. Keep that in mind, you have nothing to prove. You are amazing and we all know that already. This book can only push us to that direction. Praying for youuuu!
You can totally send me over a pie for Calvin’s bake sale.
I am in charge of it and so don’t know what I am doing.
Darn preschools!
Loves.
you are amazing and I love every line you write and every picture you post. THAT’S ALL.
Thanks for the peek inside your kitchen and your head and your life as a writer! I’m sure it must be an overwhelming process, but we are right here, ready to breathe with you when you need it. I send you lots of best wishes and loud cheers from my little Parisian apartment!
Great analogy – and I’m sure your feet (and the book) don’t stink. Looking forward to smelling it when it comes out. Wait, that sounds weird. :) Keep up the GREAT work.
I’m sure your book will be wonderful!
xo Lisa
Making Life’s Lemons
Joy, I have no doubt your second cookbook will be as amazing as your first cookbook. I love your description of the process, and one day hope to go through it myself! Keep on keeping on :)
Joy, your books will be great and full of awesome pies – you are way awesome! And p.s. I totally let people keep there shoes on when they come in the house now, if they want, thanks to you and Tracy.
hahaha! too funny!
I’m also really excited for the upcoming Great Gatsby film! I think I should read the book about Zelda, she’s fascinating!
P.S. Please come to Atlanta for your next book signing! :-)
Pie!!! Can’t wait for the new book. I’m sure it (and your feet) will smell wonderful.
Congrats on your new cookbook. I’m sure it will be just as awesome as the first one!!!
A shame the pie didn’t turn out, it certainly looks pretty!
I love your analogy. I’ve never written a book, but sometimes I feel that way about blog posts or things I write for work. I love it, but will everyone else?
Rereading Gatsby is on my list of things to do. I’ve read it twice before, but I want a refresher before the movie comes out. I’m dying to see it! Love me some Leo…
I’ve been thinking of rereading the Great Gatsby too even though I probably won’t see the movie in theaters. I loved that book so much. Thanks for the Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald rec, I will definitely check it out as I enjoyed the Paris Wife.
Oh, I totally understand you, Joy! I think any bold act of creativity–especially such an undertaking as writing a book–feels like leaping into the great unknown. Thus you just pray that you land semi-gracefully on your feet–AND that they don’t stink! But I have total faith that your next book will also be lovely+ and wonderfully you, and so many of us already look forward to reading it! Happy writing!
I am so pleased to hear there will be another cookbook from you. Looking forward to getting it! Love reading your blog and using your recipes. Now…back to work for both of us! xoxo
Pie?! I’ll make the coffee and be right over.
Oh man, friend. I just adore you. I also hate the no shoe policy. Sometimes my feet are smelly. I’m not a huge fan of my toes. It’s just…not okay without warning.
Secondly, I re-read the Great Gatsby every single year and it gets better every time. I’m so beyond excited about the movie coming out; I can’t even deal. I want to read that Zelda book ASAP.
Lastly, I can’t wait to see your new book. You are an amazing light in this world and I know it will be magical. So much love to you and all this creativity you share so willingly. xoxo
giiirrrlll… i can’t even begin to tell you how much i appreciate you!
best analogy ever!
You know how some people get to work in the morning, sit down at their computer and check the news? I check food bloggers. And for a good long while now, JoytheBaker.com has been the first one I check every day. Because as much as I love your recipes, I love your spirit, too. Your honesty, your oversharing and your ability to find humor in the world. It’s why I started a Pinterest page called “Why I Love Joy”…it’s all about you and the little moments of happiness that you bring to my world. So thanks for that. For all of it. Even the overshares. :)
is it weird that you just made me cry a little?
Good luck! I just bought your first book and can’t wait to cook through all these wonderful sweets! Can’t wait for the second :)
i’m so happy you have the first! thank you!
Joy, I love these real-life posts. Your honesty and imagination (shoes at a party?!) are refreshing and wholly YOU. I also love how inspiring you are. Have you read that book Tiny Beautiful Things, by Sugar/Cheryl Strayed? You both inspire me, because you give things all you’ve got. I’ll follow you anywhere if you’re telling me the stories about what happens when you give life your best. That’s the real and gritty stuff.
Also, love the book recommendations. Totally checking that out. Do you have a goodreads page? Would you be into that?
thank you for your kindness. i don’t even know what a goodreads page is. i should look into this!
Love this post. Writing is an art with a fabulous combination of skill, devotion, frustration, talent, and luck (i.e. not having to immediately take care o something on the tip of what is sure to be your best idea yet)! Can’t wait to add your second cookbook to my collection – next to your first of course!
Luciโs Morsels โ fashion. food. frivolity.
I am so excited for your second book! I love the first one and have loved every recipe from it I’ve tried (especially the red velvet + chocolate marble cake!). You will rock everyone else’s socks (and shoes) off!!!!
i would totally be that girl without a pedicure and would have stinky feet. I will most certainly travel from Texas to eat your pie. I loved The Paris Wife. The Great Gatsby is one of my favorites! Good luck with the book.
thank you, lady!
No worries, you’re doing great! And if the recipes in the book are 1/10th as good as the ones on your site, it will rule. Also, if you ever want to ship a piece of pie or a sandwich to Montana, I would totally taste test it for you.
Perfect analogy. I’m currently editing my first lasers and in a slight panic….rethinking oh, just about every single recipe in the dang book. It will drive a person insane and has made me realize one thing: Google cannot solve every problem! :) There are no forums or online doctors that can help with cookbook writing. Best of luck to you in the 2nd go-around!
I really loved your analogy, completely spot-on for so many situations! And if that’s the creative thinking that’s going into your book, I think you’ll be just fine!
Listen Joy, I live in LA too, not far from you. I’d be very happy to test drive a few of your pies. You would get an honest assessment from me, and then we could go for a bike ride to rid ourselves of a few calories and nerves. Letmeknow. xoxo
You are way too funny! I love how real you are Joy… It takes a lot of confidence and talent to write books, that’s a dream of mine and I don’t know how I will ever make it come true. I wish we were neighbors and I could just knock on your door and ask for a big slice of pie!
You are hilarious. I love visiting your glamorous big city life and borrowing your anxieties for a while :) You can always bring yourself and any leftover baked goods here to small town South Carolina, we’ll be happy to see you. (I do have lovely friends in SF who I’m sure would love to eat pies, let me know if you want their info)
Your cookbook will be amazing, my whole family loves when I cook your recipes – even toast.
best wishes
I’m reading Lean In too! Or at least pretending to, meaningI’m so busy that I fall into bed and doze off after a page. Not sure what Sheryl would say about that. I’m not sure she gives an A for effort.
Do you know how many cookbooks I own? A LOT. Do you know how many cookbooks I have that I have never made anything out of? A LOT. In fact, I have only cooked from a small percentage of the ones I have. I’m a brat, I know. My point is, guess who’s cookbook I have cooked the most from and loved it so much I purchased 12 copies (literally) to give to all the females in my life for 2012? YOURS. Your second cookbook won’t stink and I bet I’m going to have to buy 15 copies now because I know a few more people. Crap. Thanks a lot, Joy.
love this post! I feel the same way you do, but in a very teeny tiny way every time I write a post. Good luck on the book. I’m sure it will be as delightful as the first.
Your cookbook will be amazing – just hang in there through all the failed recipes until you find your gems! I still go back to your first cookbook anytime I need to impress the boy’s fam – so thank you :)
And kudos to you for handling the flops with humor! Love your attitude :)
“Vegan grapefruit pie” seems like an oxymoron to me. So while I can empathize over any pie failure, in truth I’m not so sorry that one in particular failed. Now, if a blackbottom pie (the kind with the liqoury custard cream layer) had failed, I’d be sobbing into my pillow. (Hint!)
Yay! Good luck with the book!
I am beyond thrilled for a second cook book from you! And a vegan grapefruit pie sounds bangin’.
Dear Joy,
I cannot wait to see the next installment of Joy the Baker cookbook! Your recipes are my go to’s. They never fail in my kitchen. You are doing a great job and I am so excited for what is in store next.
Kat
Oh Joy! I love these catch up posts – sometimes its nice to have a break from recipes and see whats going on in your brain :)
Your first book is great, I’m sure the second will be wonderful! (Though don’t take this as a pressure statement!)
I look forward to seeing what you come up with.
How exciting about your second book. I can see how nerve wrecking it can be, but you’ll do amazing on it. Love your stinky shoe analogy.
I heart you Joy. I really do. I love your thoughts and your honesty. It’s refreshing like a nice glass of lemonade on a summer day. I know this 2nd Cookbook will be successful as the last!
I can’t wait for you next book, just so you know. Don’t even worry if people will like it, most will. You did a great job on your first one. It’s by far my favourite thing to look at/bake from.
Oddly enough, your analogy completely makes sense. That is how I feel putting on a play, doing an interview, etc. (Well, I don’t picture it exactly like that, but I start out feeling pretty good and then nose dive into a complete and utter panic!). And I do like Zelda for a girl’s name. Cute.
You book will not suck. It will be as good as your first one which is great.
This is a wonderful post. You don’t have to worry about your feet.
I can’t wait to see what your new book has inside its beautiful cover. :)
And don’t worry, at least your feet don’t turn purple/red/blue due to blood circulation problems, so I can’t wear flip flops or flats or anything cute like that. :( Instead I make up for it by wearing cute mismatched socks that don’t resemble each other at all! :)
it’s so interesting to have a sneak peak into your process, joy! All the best on cookbook number 2. I will get it as soon as it comes out!!
Best of luck! Keep going!! It seems like a slog now, but taking those metaphorical shoes off will feel so good! (And there is a 99.9% chance that your metaphorical feet do not metaphorically stink.)
(…PS.I am really hoping that there is a savoury section, because if your new book were to contain your glorious Caramelised Mushrooms and Dumplings… You might just make my entire life.)
We love you, Joy! You bring us smiles and laughter and good-feelings and you make us think with your wise-yet-humorous words. I can’t wait for your next book. So glad I’ve had your lovely blog to read these past few years :-)
Lady, I “heart” you! We share the same anxious worries over shoe bans and wearing our fave shoes (that may – in my instance, be both smelly if removed & worn in) Sigh. I opt for sandals usually in such scenarios, but man, I have a pair of flats that I live in and this analogy is so THERE. It’s an apt analogy. I haven’t given birth either, so, yeah, I feel you on this one. Oh, and can I just say, you are such a beautiful bright glorious light on this crazy thing called the Web, and int this equally crazy place we call our World. Shine on, shine bright, and keep baking *smile.*
I hate a no-shoes policy when I’m wearing skinny jeans & boots because my thighs to not look good in skinny jeans minus boots let alone any other concerns I may have. I feel your pain so much. But book number two is definitely not going to stink, can’t wait for it!
Dear Joy: c’mere. Have a virtual bourbon in a teacup (virtual is the best I can do), and a sit down. Your book with be beautiful and full of spirit, as you are, but it is OK to worry about it. Course it is. Part of the reason that it will be so beautiful is the fact that you do worry, and are worrying. You can’t really have one without the other.
Everything is going to be alright.
We’re all behind you.
Awesome analogy! Was this an Asian home, Joy (cultural thing for Asians)? If many of the guests were like you, oblivious that the event was going to have a no-shoes policy, there might have been others with stinkier feet than yours. No one would have noticed whose feet stank. If your book really were to stink, it would be camouflaged among others that stink just as bad, or worse. No one would be noticing your stink. And if your book turns out to be amazing (which Iโm sure it will), enthusiasts (of the matter, in this case baking) will be amazed. Others, who could give a ratโs ass about baking/cooking, might not even notice or appreciate the brilliancy. Itโs like if your feet were nicely pedicured and you had pretty feet. Feet enthusiasts (the foot fetish perverts) would be all over your feet because they know how to appreciate beautiful feet (fill in the blank with cookbooks).
Do you think you will feel Postpartum once the labor is complete? You have spent months preparing. Your friends and family eagerly await for the arrival of the marvel. You have nurtured, have probably wanted to scream into a pillow at times, and spent so much time and energy into what is all going to lead up to that final moment when it is released. And you will be done. You made itโฆyou can finally exhale. But I can only imagine that a part of you will miss the process of it (aka being book pregnant).
Three things.
1. Your book won’t suck. I got 9 cookbooks for Christmas last year (I know, right?!) and yours is by far my absolute favourite. But I get the anxiety – I’m a poet :)
2. You’re absolutely on the money with the baby analogy!
3. re: Words out requires words in: Yup. Feel the same way. If you’re looking for an amazing read (that will reduce you to emotional tears at least once) I can heartily recommend Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts.
Bake on, lovely – your fans couldn’t possibly adore you any more than we already do! <3
The moment I saw your first cookbook was coming out a pre-ordered that baby on Amazon and had it shipped the heck out to London! Your feet were beautiful, inspiring and a joy to look at (have I taken that pun and analogy a bit too far??).
I can’t wait for your next book and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one :)
xx
p.s even if your feet (now I am actually talking just about feet) stank, everyone would still think you are awesome. fact.
I know I keep saying this on all available to me social media channels (and in the real world, but there’s no way to let you know I’m sharing my love by including you with an @joythebaker) I just love how you put your sparkly personality out there on your blog, it adds so much to the already spot on recipes that would be enough to bring thousands of people here. Yours is literally like the only food blog, where I bother reading the rambling before, on the others I just skip to the recipes normally but no-no not on here. I sometimes even make people listen to me reading it out loud because it cracks me up so much. Yeah I’m a little weird, so I’ll stop right here.
I was also thinking about book vs baby analogies (I was reading book reviews on Amazon and being amazed at what jerks some people can be!) I was thinking about how you after you nurture the baby through pregnancy and toddlerhood you then send him/her out into the world of school/ pre-school and know that some people will be mean to your kid and bully him/ her. But hopefully the wonderful, nice people will far outnumber the few jerks! Anyway, I loved your “first born” and am super excited to meet your 2nd!
Aaargh I’m so excited about your new book. And I totally get the whole taking your shoes off at a party thing. I worry so much about that I sometimes take extra socks in my bag! I don’t know what flavour that pie at the top is but it looks immense.
My book comes out in a month and I’m already bracing for the Amazon reviews. Or other blogs. I hope people are nice. But it’s the cyber world and I am prepared to put my thick skin on. I have had a baby and I will definitely say that writing a book is like having a baby and when I announced my book I did a baby & pregnancy analogy in the post. You’re on the money there!
You have nothing to worry about with book 2 other than how to invest the millions of dollars you will make from it b/c people are going to love it. Period :)
And about holding a bake sale…yeah, I need one too. I pawn coffee cakes. muffins, cookies, cakes, etc off on whoever I can. Like HERE nice to meet you. Enjoy it.
Goodness gracious averie, I heart your blog and I would pawn all the goodies you post off of you!
p.s.- had your vanilla avocado smoothie for bfast yesterday. I miss it :)
joy,
your book is going to be brilliant, no matter what you do… I’ve got your first book and it’s amazing, and apart from your recipes, what makes it so good, so unique is that it’s got so much you into it.
if your second book has as much you as the first you’ll be number one…
I know this is hard, I do a cooking blog and find it quite hard sometimes and I can not begin to imagine a cookbook. But it’s also exciting and I think that’s what keeps us going. You will take off your shoes and everyone will compliment your feet…just wait and see…
Hmm.. I would go wash my feet straight avay. And then Ask the host for socks. Coordinated to my outfit if necessary. What the hell. If friends come over and have to take shoes off they always get fuzzy socks or slippers or what they wish/I have.
Ok this was not what you needed? Then I tell you about the book.
It would be technically a lie to say I *know* it will be REALLY GOOD, since nobody *can know* that in advance. But listen, you have your own personal style in doing this and it won’t go away tomorrow. and we all adore it. So just do your thing the way you like and it will be loved. Just like a baby. And are you doing this fore the review? You shoul be doing it for us! Forgive my autorithy, must be PMS’ing. :D
I have a recent fascination with Fitz too-loved the Paris Wife and have downloaded a few around the subject too…a trip to Shakespear and Company (the bookshop) in Paris was a real treat!
You’ll always be allowed to take your shoes off at my house. Especially if you bring your home cooked goodies.
Looking forward to book number 2. Know it’ll be awesome.
x Elena @ Randomly Happy
Can’t wait for your new book!
So exciting about the second book. Um, inactuallynreslly would make the trip to Venice to eat pie for ya. I’ll bring Bourbon and fernet. And I promise not to “borrow” any recipes for the next kcrw pie contest, haha.
I’m finishing my second cookbook and I couldn’t agree more!!! hahaha Great analogy.
Alma
Ps. Your book is just brilliant!!!
Joy, all I could think of while writing my blog post about my epic fail life in the kitchen is you. I’m elaborating, hold on. I feel like you’re the only blogger who will give me (cuz you do speak to me) REAL LIFE. So you made 100 perfect pies but you’re still all embracing of the fact that it’s not always that way. Whatever, you don’t need this pep talk. As for cookbook 2 (and I mean well): Eff isht up.
First of all, you rule, your cookbook is going to be amazing! Duh! Second, I am loving your book choices. Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald and The Paris Wife are on my reading list and I’m super excited to get to them. The Great Gatsby is one of my all-time favorite books! I am about to read it again before the movie comes out!
Also, I wish I had some pie right now. Sounds like a great midnight snack. :)
This is beautiful and true. And it reminds me: on Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, many Episcopal churches do a recalling of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. The symbolism is so powerful and intimate, BUT it’s so very vulnerable. Countless people tell me they got their pedicures. I’ve found that odd, but okay. Then my mom, my mama, who was afflicted with polio at 9 months old, whose feet bear deep scars (scars I’ve traced like following a map on a far away adventure) misshapen from atrophy and countless surgeries, told me something so painful. She doesn’t go forward for the foot washing. She doesn’t think anyone should have to deal with those feet. So thank you for being vulnerable and sharing and letting them possibly stink and being real.
I think our Sundays with Joy group and my curled cover are pretty good proof your feet don’t stink! Can’t wait to bake my way through the next one!!