I think about you a lot.
I think about what you might want to see on your breakfast table… maybe something with cinnamon and oats.
I think about your best friend’s birthday, and what kind of cake you might make her.
I think about how you’re nervous to make a pie crust, and I want to show you how to do it so you can make my dad’s Sweet Potato Pie.
I think about you a lot because you come here looking for sweet and delicious, colorful and fun, and I want to make that for you. It’s a honor to do that. We have a deal: I make biscuits and then you make biscuits.
Then Shaun Groves wrote, inviting me on Compassion’s blogger trip to Uganda. I’d visit children, families, and church centers every day and learn about how Compassion really works, then I’d blog about it from Uganda everyday for five days.
The answer was easy: No.
I told myself that I was thinking of you when I declined Shaun’s offer. I told myself that you only wanted to see cupcakes and cocktails and the occasional picture of my cat. I told myself that on this little piece of the Internet you wouldn’t want to hear about my faith, about children in poverty, about how you can totally help because I totally help and it feels really rewarding and it’s really important. I didn’t think this was the place for that, though it is, strangely, the place for run-on sentences.
A year passed. Shaun came knocking again. Again I wanted to say no, but my heart wavered because my heart knew. I knew that I wanted to tell you about how much I love getting letters from one of my sponsor daughters, Stella in Kenya. I knew that I wanted to tell you that I sent Stella a gift of money for her birthday and every bit of the humble $20 I sent her went straight from Compassion to her. She bought a dress and six hens and wrote to thank me. A dress and six hens!! Stella is twelve. When I was twelve I probably wanted a Caboodles Makeup Case filled with glitter.
So I said yes to Shaun and his trip to Uganda. I said yes for both of us because we’re in this together.
I recognize that this week on Joy the Baker might be weird for you. I totally get that. I thought about you might feel alienated, guilty, downright annoyed. Listen… that’s ok. I understand that place.
I didn’t want to talk about it. I didn’t want to talk about the good that Compassion does to cultivate the mind, body, and spirit of each of their children here. But knowing what that really looks like, knowing how Stella thrives, and how Gloria‘s family rejoices…. now I won’t stop talking about it.
Today we visited the Katwe Slum in the capital city of Kampala. It’s the toughest places my eyes have ever seen. Despite the circumstance, these lovely people marched us into their slum and up to their church with a full band praising. Imagine the best thing ever. Yes, it was.
Tomorrow I want to tell you about Hajara. Her poise and confidence will change the game.
You can say no at first, too. I understand that. I just need you to know about these special humans and the difference you can make in their lives through Compassion. Just let it rattle around in your heart a bit. Maybe make some biscuits. When you’re ready (and maybe you’re ready right now) little Reagan and Julius are ready for you.
More from Uganda from Chatting at the Sky, The Nester, Jeff Goins, and Shaun Groves.
Compassion provided me a link to share with you. I am in no way compensated for your sponsorship or donation. I love you and I’m glad you’re here with me on this journey.
Ofis Mobilyalari
I love your the “boiling water” post goes so well with your blog. After reading all of the other bloggers posts, it’s so fun to see how everyone has put their own spin on their time in Uganda and has created content that goes along with each of their blog/brands including you!
Bella
Joy, this post is truly genuine. I understand your hesitation, but am grateful that you stayed true to who you are and shared this with all of us. We come here for your cooking, but it is who you are that makes what you do here special. thank you :)
Catybakes
By sharing your experience, you have made a difference. I just finished signing up to sponsor a child. Blessings!
Treena
I am so glad you told about your trip. I enjoy your blog, but I enjoyed this different post(S). My family, husband and 2 teenage daughters have been to Honduras twice on mission trips and it was the best thing we have ever done together.
Alex Rhoades
Yay Joy! You bring so much joy to others! I’m so happy I saw this post, because of you so many other people know about Compassion and the great work that they do! Now many more children will be sponsored! Thank you for bringing sunshine to these children.
adrienne
I’m a little late on my reading but better late than never. This was a fantastic post. Thank you for sharing this very intimate piece of you. I will continue to look here for donuts and I will do it feeling all the better that you are in the world spreading compassion.
Megan - FireWifey
Love.
Joke
Never stop sharing your heart, your faith and passions. It’s beautiul stuff, thanks!
thepinkcucumber
Hello Joy!
I’ve recently moved to South Africa from Europe and I am learning to share my new world with new people – there is nothing you can do but fall in love with this continent and its people!
All the best,
http://thepinkcucumber.wordpress.com/
Jodi
The first picture is priceless. I love the smile on the face of little girl on the far left. I’m happy you said “yes” this year to Shaun Groves. Joy the Baker = Inspiration
Andrea
What a neat experience! I bet it was super rewarding! I love your food:)
Katie
But they do require that the children participate in the church-based community that includes, according to their own website, “Ongoing Christian training,” which concerns me, considering that I think it asks non-Christian families who may be very committed to their faith to make some very unpleasant choices. “Am I willing to compromise my own and my child’s faith in exchange for desperately needed aid” is not a position I think it’s compassionate to put anyone in.
I’d also like to add my voice to those troubled by Compassion’s stance on homosexuality. I ran across discussion of this a couple places when I was looking into them earlier this week, notably this blog post: http://jonathanrundman.blogspot.com/2008/09/losing-compassion-for-compassion.html. Additionally, in their list of items you may not send to a child, in the sponsorship FAQ, they include things that “Promote lifestyle choices that we view as unhealthy and inconsistent with biblically based lifestyles or otherwise inappropriate for sponsored children.” While I’m aware that this doesn’t state the policy in as many words, please believe that as someone who is not straight and who has many Evangelical family members, I’m well acquainted with the usual subtext of such statements.
sonya
I love. this. post. I am a super-joy-the-baker podcast listener, but sort of an inconsistent blog reader (um.sorry). I clicked over from Emily. I will be following along so faithfully this week! Thanks for your honesty & can’t wait to read your trip adventures!
joythebaker
thank you for being here!
erin m.
I think the majority of your readers are interested in you as a person…not just the fabulous recipes. This is very eye opening. :-)
Sarah Woo (@wcpartyparty)
Between a picture-perfect recipe and a real human being with beliefs, fragility, empathy, and a brain, I gravitate toward the latter. Always. <3
Angela
You may think that posting information about your trip to Uganda will only annoy us, and that we only expect posts about how to bake this cake or make that pie, but reading this blog only made me appreciate you more and hold a deeper respect for you. Personally, I’m happy that I get to see the side of your life that is not included in this blog. It makes me feel like I’m getting to know you better. Also, it’s not everyday that you get the opportunity to work for a greater cause in a third-world country, so I’m extremely glad that you seized the chance! It touched my heart to know that you are strong in your faith and integrity. I just want to thank you for doing something like this. On behalf of myself and everyone else who would love to do participate in something like Compassion but don’t get the chance to, please send my love and regard to Uganda! I can’t wait to hear more about your trip!
Alanna Sinclair
I think it’s extremely inspiring what you are doing. I love that you writing about something else other then cooking. It gives your readers a different side that they don’t get to see. It’s inspiring to see you talk of faith yet being modest. That’s hard to come by. I’ve always wanted to go on a missions trip but have yet to do so. I always believed oh my faith is not strong enough or I don’t know enough to be able to share. The biggest part is the fear of stepping out of my comfort zone. You’re totally stepping out of yours and sharing it. It’s so wonderful! I look forward to reading more post!
Ro
Joy, I’m a faithful reader (you had me at rootbeer chocolate cake)…but I never comment…not even on giveaways.
Thank you for taking me on your journey. God bless us all.
Amy
I am so happy that you went on this trip, and are sharing it with your readers. It is refreshing and inspiring!
scaredycatkitchen
I love what you’re doing, Joy, and telling people about what you’ve seen is the most important part. We can all spare a few minutes from talking about cake! (even though talking about cake is the best!)
shendrixson
It brings me so much “joy” that you shared this with us. As another woman of faith, I love that you have used this outlet to share what you believe in. Just like you challenege us to step out of our comfort zone and try new recipes, you are challenging us to step out of our comfort zone and love like never before. Thank you for sharing this experience with us. You’re a fantastic storyteller and I admire/respect you all the more :)
Shelly
Oh, how well I know that first No, and then the YES. The trepidation and the joy that follows. Love does. God’s love moves us to do audacious things. I’m glad you went to Uganda, Africa has a way of getting under your skin.
Casandra Aldana
Thanks for sharing!!! I’m glad people like you that are so succesfull and popular make endeavors for bigger causes. It inspires me. I’m just starting my own business and hardly have extra money, but I’ll make and effort to save some for a worthwhile cause like Compassion. Thanks again!
Dominique
For some reason this post brought me to tears.
sweetgreyhappenings
Oh, Joy. We have so much to give to make this world more beautiful, even if it’s just a smile to a stranger or twenty dollars so a girl can buy a new dress and six hens. As I prepare to expand my chicken flock, I will be reminded of this as I collect my eggs – little miracles. Thank you, Joy – what beauty and grace and kindness and humility you share with us. Thank you.
Stoich91
Heck to the yes bring it on. Apparently, you underestimate us, yourself, or both. We aren’t here just for the food and pix – we’re hear for you, Joy (and your crazy cat obsessions and cool office and whathaveyou)! Blog on! :D
Juliette
THANK YOU for posting about this trip and about Compassion. It is just SO very special to see that one person really can make a difference. Really. I think this may one of 2 or 3 comments I’ve ever left on your blog in the years I’ve been reading it. You are an awesome blogger and I should’ve told you more often, but right now you are an AMAZING blogger. Thank you.
joythebaker
you’re really generous with your kindness and i thank you.
Sarah
I’ve so enjoyed reading your blog over the past several years – and I just want to encourage you…all this is wonderful, truly, truly wonderful, but it means nothing without the name of Jesus. I can see Him in those smiles and in the love that’s being poured out, but to speak boldly in His name is so needed.
Heather
Thank you so much for sharing Joy! Humbling, to say the least. We all need to care a little bit more, a little bit harder, I think I will take on a child, I can’t wait :)
Kayleigh
Joy, thank you for saying yes. I love your blog because you care. You care about food, people, style, cats, and on and on I could go. We don’t always need food. But we always need people. Compassion is a GREAT way to change peoples’ lives. Yours included. Love the pictures. Merci.
Henrietta Squash
Pretty pictures of delicious food are great, but there is room for other things. Usually the things that have the greatest impact are those with no superficial glamour.
Lacey J
Thank you for sharing this with me. It touched my little ol’ heart, so I went to the site and became a sponsor. You’re a wonderful example and I love your guts!
Libby
Joy! I love hearing about your life. I love hearing about your faith. I love hearing about your heart. Your heart is MAGICAL and inspiring and I am so, so grateful to be reading about your time and your heart in Uganda. So THANK YOU for sharing you with us. I, for one, need you. I need you. In a non-threatening way. :P
PS Once, Shaun Groves came to play a concert at my college (he was on tour with Shane and Shane). So I got to eat dinner with Shane and Shane and Shaun in our cafeteria. He was an absolute sweetheart.
joythebaker
i read this comment to shaun and he chuckled. awesome, lady!
Lauren
These are wonderful, inspiring, eye-opening posts, Joy! Keep them coming :) I’m loving it and all that you share!
Eva @ Pastel Bakery
What a beautiful post. Inspiring. Cannot wait to read more!
Midwestern Belle
As amazing as your food photography and recipes are, sharing your faith and making a difference in this world will last much longer! I love seeing a mix of both here on Joy the Baker!
Caroline B.
I always enjoy your recipes and insights. But this gives us a glimpse of your heart, and it is beautiful. Don’t be ashamed! God bless you Joy!
Sherry Beeson
My Sweet Maliza Mutesi lives in northern Uganda if anyone meets her please give her my hug and love!.
Praying for you all as you spread God’s love and encouragement. Thank you for going to place I will never be able to go!
Sherry Beeson
Mallory
Joy…never feel like those of us that love your scones and biscuits and witty comments wouldn’t also love to hear about you reaching out and connecting and helping children across the globe…and encouraging the rest of us to do the same.
sweetinsomniac
What a heart-warming post Joy! I have been a lurker for a while, but now I simply had to tell you how much I enjoyed reading this!
stella
Oh Joy. Loving these posts on your trip. This is my first comment on your blog. Have been a silent listener to your podcast and reader of your blog for a little while now and after reading your post about meeting Gloria, I shed a tear and wanted to let you know how amazing you are. Looking forward to tomorrow.
Taylor
I love your posts about your trip to Uganda and I’m so so glad that you choice to share it because it definitely IS something that I know I want to read about. Thank you.
xoxo
Taylor
http://www.welcomehometaylor.com
Mary
Why must there be a faith element involved in helping ones in need? Shouldn’t it be about simply giving to ones in need instead of “feeling rewarded” or looking good in front of a certain deity or god. Why is helping gauged on if someone wants to learn about Jesus? Shouldn’t you just help bc you have more and they have considerably less?
lorrie
Brave, real, true.
Biscuits and faith.
Love this space more!
Angela
I love that you are stepping out of your comfort zone! Kudos. Keep em coming.
Sherry DIetrich
I love all your posts and hearing about what you’re up to, and about your passion for what you care about, and what’s important to you, makes your posts even more precious.
Margarita
oh joy… you are so sweet… as sweet as your cupcakes, cakes, pies, cookies, and brownies.
and you have a beautiful and generous heart. thank you for showing us this side of yourself.
i grew up in the philippines and know what poverty is like, i saw it everywhere around me. people begging, sleeping in cardboard boxes, severely unstable people who walked around naked, you name it.
when i moved to the US seven years ago, i saw a completely different part of the world. everything is in abundance. here i get to buy ice cream and keep some in the fridge to eat whenever i want. back home, we only bought ice cream for special occassions (birthdays, celebrations, Christmas…). we also just bought soda for special occasions, not for everyday consumption (i don’t drink soda but i notice that most everyone buys packs of soda everytime i go to the store). not a single morsel of rice was thrown out. but when i taught high school, the kids threw out their apples and oranges and milk as soon as they step off the cashier line (in our school, they were required to give fruit whether the kids wanted it or not). oh if it was only possible to scavenge their trash and send it off to the places that need it. back home, my three siblings and i would split one apple. here i can eat an entire one all for myself.
thank you for sharing your special and wonderful experience in that part of the world. keep these posts going. i am sure they warm many readers’ hearts!
Rachael
Reading your blog this week has been such a blessing. Please don’t apologize! Keep sharing your passions, whether it’s for food or people. It’s pure and so enjoyable to read. Thank you.
shelly@ohshellsbells
oh joy, we love seeing every side of you! i think its great youre sharing this part of your life. i hope you continue to have a wonderful, safe trip
bakerkat
I like hearing about your journey. The post and the photos are wonderful.
I’m glad you accepted this time.
Sarah
I love this! Thanks for sharing!
bobbi
I love these posts. It does help us. I have had 2 sponsor children in the past and one aged out and the others family left the program. I think it may be time to jump in the game again. Compassion is the only program like this I would support. Thanks for the wonderful posts this week.
laura
Your blog about Compassion has changed the way I think and live. The morning I read your post about preparing to go to Uganda with Compassion I had ordered a cookbook for $42. As I continued reading about Compassion I saw that for $38 a month I could change the life of a child. That comparison changed me. In so many ways. My head (and heart) are still spinning. I have since sponsored 2 children near my daughters age. I want my daughter to learn what your blog has taught me. Thanks for saying “yes.”
Janet
As a non-Christian, I am at times put off by organizations needing to convert their recipients. However, I fully understand where your heart has taken you.
joythebaker
that’s the thing that I think will be really important to talk about. even though compassion is a christian organization, children and families do not need to be christians to receive all the benefits that compassion can provide!
Amy
Oh, thank you Joy, for not saying no the second time. I’m going to enjoy your writing from Uganda this week, and I would imagine that you’ll do much good, that many little ones will benefit from the pretty white lady sharing with them. We need to realize that most of us live in wealth that is unimaginable to most of the world. I hope Shaun calls me someday. I’d totally go!
Angela Muller
Joy, I really enjoy your blog…..the biscuits, the pies, the sweets, the prose that reads like poetry, the incredible imagery and this trip to Uganda. More about Stella, more about the journey, more about the discoveries, more pictures………please!
Ondina Maria
I’m loving every bit of your trip to Uganda and the fact that u’re sharing that with me. Thank you for not feeding me only cupcakes and other delicacies. Thank you for feeding me real life, with people that are truly inspiring. I bet they are a lot happier than us even living with a lot less :)
AJ
We’ve started spnsoring a child in Uganda through Compassion Uk just two months ago. Many thanks for sharing a little about the the life in Uganda and something of what our child might be experiencing.
Sarah Silvester
You’re amazing. Thanks for being brave and going on this trip and for being braver and writing about it.
Veronika
i am at work and my eyes are full of tiers.. thank u for sharing..
Alison
This was absolutely beautiful. We sponsor two Compassion kids, and it’s been the most rewarding experience. We traveled to Ethiopia on holiday last year, and as we were driving we happened to stumble across a sign for a Compassion site. So we drove in and randomly met up with the person in charge and got to see what they really do on site. We talked, toured around, prayed. It was such an incredible experience and I’ll never forget it. Bless you during your trip.
Sophia
Thank you. This made my week.
Linda
My husband and I have been supporting kids through Compassion for over 20 years. What a great feeling it is to give a child the first birthday gift he ever received! (and he was 9!) and he bought mostly household items like oil and rice and he was thrilled! One of “our” boys from Uganda went on to college through Compassion’s leadership program. We were so proud. Our refrigerator is covered with pictures of Compassion kids we’ve supported past and present. I’d love to be able to visit them someday! I think it’s great that you’re spreading the word about their ministry! Hopefully more kids will get sponsored.
Keely Scott
I am so SO SO glad you said ” Yes ” Thank you for saying ” Yes” thank you for bringing beautiful words to release kids from poverty. And that 1st picture of you being “led into their slum and up to their church” is beautiful in so many ways!
Yvonne Reynolds
Thank you for saying ‘yes!’ Because you did, many more people who didn’t know about the good that Compassion is doing will now know. And for that, as a Compassion sponsor and advocate, I send you a big virtual hug and thank you!!
Kendra A.
I’m crying a little because I’m so proud of you. Which is ridiculous I know. When Emily told me you were going with her on this trip, I freaked out because I’ve been reading you since day one and call you my muse when no one is listening. But I thought what you thought: “Wow, this is a big change for Joy. How will this work?”
Oh. It works. You are still Joy, seeing the world the way you do. You’re just seeing the world in Uganda, and it’s so beautiful. You took a big risk going on this trip, but I (and I’m certain others) love you more than I already did. When you said 2014 was the year of showing up, you weren’t kidding. I don’t know how to say it except that I’m proud of you. And at the risk of sounding like a mom, I stand by it.
Laura
Joy, your spirit is wonderful and the work you are doing is to. I am not a person of faith and that is my choice, I chose to be an atheist humanist. However, your transparency will not stop me from visiting your site and telling people that taste my baked goods that I am using your recipes. Your faith is part of who you are and that is who your fans including me love. The resiliency and faith of those living in slums is something special. Treasure those moments.
Sarah Gill
Honestly Joy, this has been my favorite week ever on Joy the Baker. I definitely started reading your blog because of your humor and fabulous recipes, but my heart just feels somehow that much more connected to you now. In July, my husband and I are leaving our life behind to become missionaries and reading your stories from this week has made me that much more excited to go and spend time serving others. Thank you for saying YES and sharing your journey!!
PS If you happened to meet a little boy name Brian, he’s 8, I hope you gave him a great big hug!! (he’s our Compassion child)
Valerie
I love all of your posts, but these even more so. It is hard to find the words to write about Africa, about poverty, about people whose lives are so different from ours. But you are capturing it beautifully. Your words have been so powerful and so fitting. I spent time working in a hospital in Tanzania last year so I know how emotionally overwhelming it is to be there. So thank you for sharing with us.
Sarah
Joy- We love you for who you are and for your authorial voice, not just for the sweets… though those are nice! I believe we owe you for helping open our eyes to new experiences, both in the kitchen and out in the world.
Lois
Thank you, thank you, thank you for every recipe, photo, biscuit and pie. But thank you even more for saying yes to this trip and for sharing a glimpse of your time in Uganda. I can’t even tell you how excited I was when you started to share your faith on your blog. Richest blessings to you!
Meagan Columbia
I am loving reading along as you travel around Uganda. I am a huge fan of the podcast, and I got very interested in Compassion after listening to last week’s. After reading everyone’s first post about their experiences in Uganda, I knew I had to sponsor a child. I am now Emmanuel Kyeyune’s sponsor. I am so excited to start writing him letters and hopefully make a difference in his life. I keep scanning the photos hoping to spot him. I hope you saw him and gave him a hug. Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I hope I get the opportunity to meet Emmanuel one day.
Diana
Joy, I started reading your blog a number of months ago because of the recipes, which I use to make food for college and university students who come to our house weekly for bible studies and encouragement. I’ve always been thankful for you in helping me do that but have never commented before. I had to comment now though to let you know that I am so thrilled that you chose to say yes to this opportunity and that you are telling those who read here about the incredible work Compassion is doing in Jesus’ name. We have 3 little boys as a part of our family through Compassion, the same age as our 4 year old son, and we have been so blessed to include them in our family. It’s been such an encouragement to us to follow you this week and see what real tangible differences Compassion sponsorship makes, and most of all a thrill to see how they are filling them with hope and value. Press on, I imagine you must be exhausted. I’ll be praying that the Lord would give you strength and grace to keep going through the rest of your trip and I’m so looking forward to reading more.
alison bravenec
So awesome Joy!! I do want to read this post and I LOVE it!! Praying for you!!
Ashley
Thanks for sharing the love!!!
Kayla
No better words are there than faith, hope, and love to spread through the internet. Your words are an encouragement and a such a blessing to my heart this week.
Caroline
I have 2 compassion children as well. I understand how you feel about sharing and the love you have for Stella. I have one in Thailand because I”m horrified by the sex trafficing there and I hoped that I could make the difference in one child’s life. She has no parents and her grandfather just passed away. I want to do more for her because I don’t want her make or be forced to make choices like selling he body to live. I wish I could visit her like you did. Thank you for the encouragement and taking a chance to be vulnerable. Your recipes are awesome and so is your heart.
Charlotte
do i find this awkward? not in the least. i find it inspiring. your readers keep coming back because they want to hear about you, your voice, your story. this is part of your story. keep telling it.
Laura
I want this too. I’m not just here for treats and deliciousness. I’m here to read about the adventures of Joy The Baker, inside and outside the kitchen.
Thanks for sharing these experiences too.
Katherine
Joy! These posts on your trip (I’m reading them all in order) just go to show you that everyone has so many unexpected facets, and it pays to get to know them all. Here I thought you were up to your elbows in flour and butter all day, but you find time to be part of Compassion – such a wonderful organization. That’s an important thing in life. Your heart is big, Joy! Cheers and happy, safe travels! Thanks for the inspiration in and out of the kitchen.
Lea
Thank you for sharing these stories! Blessings.
Anne
Joy, you’re amazing. You make this world a better place by feeding people, and now by stepping into a new and wonderful place and helping your readers \ feel connected to people halfway around the world. Your honest writing about food and people and places is inspiring. Thanks!
Liz @ The Sixth Letter
Just for kicks, I wanted to offer a slightly different perspective. This kind of thing (mission trips/child sponsorship/Christianity) isn’t generally my jam. But you know what is? Faith. And no matter that I practice my faith in something greater differently than you do, it’s really awesome/inspiring/enlightening to see someone following their faith so clearly and honestly. I want to echo the above statement that I feel honored. I also wanted to share this with you so that you know that even for folks who might not be into this sort of thing, we’re still here for you – never just for the food. Thanks for sharing.
Ed M
Our church has a Compassion Sunday every year and my wife and I have sponsored a girl in Africa for 3 years. We have also sent people to various places to make contact with some of our sponsored children and their lives have been changed. God Bless you on your trip.
Katie McC
This is the best thing you could have ever written about! Yes, I believe food any nourishing ourselves is extremely important, but whats more important is the life of those who can’t even nourish themselves- the Compassion children. Hearing about your faith is amazing and this week will speak to so many of your readers is a completely different way, we’ve been able to see a different side and its awesome. I love your the “boiling water” post goes so well with your blog. After reading all of the other bloggers posts, it’s so fun to see how everyone has put their own spin on their time in Uganda and has created content that goes along with each of their blog/brands including you! I sponsor a little girl, Anali, in Peru and I will be visiting her in May this year and I am so excited. I just received my travel pack in the mail and the moment I saw your “Trip Guide” book on Emily’s instagram, I immediately got so excited to go on my trip. I can’t wait to learn about her culture and to see how my sponsorship is helping her and her family! Can’t wait to hear about the rest of your trip. I’m praying for you all. =)
michelej
I am so glad you are on this trip and so glad to hear about it! I love your cooking, but I have so much respect and admiration for you because of your courage!
Mendi B
Thank you,Thank you Joy the Baker!! Your posts of your trip have been inspirational and enriching for me on so many levels. I too sponsored a beautiful child from Ghana 6 months ago and was so excited to have this connection to you! Soak up every moment of your trip….you are blessed and blessing others. Thank you Compassion!!!
Peggy Estes
Your post brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing your trip- it’s beautiful and inspiring. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Erika
If someone comes on here looking for the next recipe etc and is upset to see this they need to open their heart and mind all the more. This is a wonderful blessing for people to see this, read it, and to go experience it. I am glad God and Shaun came knocking at Joys again :)
God bless
Peggy Estes
Your post brought tears to my eyes! Thank you for sharing your trip with me- beautiful and inspiring! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
eliz
First off, I applaud your commitment to charity and giving. I am an activist for social justice in my community and think that giving back is the most important thing we can do in this life.
However, not only is Compassion’s colonialist agenda troubling – (I encourage you to read Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart if you haven’t already / perhaps that would put what you are doing into perspective) but even if I didn’t morally object to their ‘mission,’ I would not be allowed to participate due to my sexuality. I couldn’t share pictures of my girlfriend. I would have to lie and say that I am single and straight. So yes, I do feel alienated. And I do say no – strongly! And I hope you realize how problematic and insensitive this post is for some of your readers, assuming I’m not the only non-heterosexual that reads your blog.
Lauren
I agree completely. As someone who has studied international development and now makes it my career nationally and internationally, it is important to understand the problem with this sort of “poverty tourism.” I urge commenters to read this take on the issue from a professional in the development field:
http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorialopinion/2012/01/04/hepburn_the_downside_of_overseas_volunteering.html
If you are interested in another very important aspect of this polarizing issue in this particular country, please, please, please attend a viewing or at least read up on this very important documentary:
http://www.godlovesuganda.com
I love your recipes, Joy. Human connection and love are wonderful, but it is important to recognize the larger issue of true lasting and sustainable development as well as the detrimental effect that these trips have on local communities and most importantly, children.
joythebaker
you’re right. if this were anything like ‘poverty tourism’ it would be abhorrent. this is not that. i’m here to document and advocate.
what i’m so pleased to know is that Compassion supports Ugandan churches caring for Ugandans. it’s not about us. we’re simply here to support the work Ugandans are already doing.
what i love about Compassion is the lasting, sustainable, and well documented positive effects they’ve had on children and communities in this country. i’ve seen it with my own eyes. i’d invite you to dig deeper into the work Compassion does, it might surprise you.
joythebaker
thank you for leaving this comment Eliz. i appreciate your perspective and you certainly make me think. what makes you think that you would have to lie about your sexuality? have you had a particular issues with Compassion specifically?
i’m going to dig deeper on this one for you. i’ve reached out to Compassion to get their perspective so I can get back to you more fully.
you must of course understand that i’m working as an advocate for something i truly believe in and by no means does it reflect my feelings about homosexuality. i’d be happy to discuss on a more personal level with you outside of the blog and i’ve emailed you to start a conversation there. when I get back from Uganda I’d love to talk with you more about your experience.
Aimee Wimbush-Bourque
I don’t even have to go make biscuits to think about it – we’re going to sponsor a child or two (brothers, perhaps). I’m so excited!
Friend, you have a gift. This was a powerful post. Blogging every day under ideal, air-conditioned circumstances is tough, and YOU are doing it from the slums. Thinking of you and praying for you ever day.
Peggy
Oh Joy, DO keep talking, keep sharing. Yes we come to you for the food, and the humor, but this is food too, food for our souls. You’re doing a great thing, and if evenone person joins you on the Compassion journey, it will be one more child fed, clothed, educated, loved. We have so much. I’m touched that you are sharing this, with us, too. Oh yeah, keep talking!
Cy
Joy, I had a similar experience years ago with my dad(a doctor)in Guatamala. Very very poor people,full of smiles for us coming to give them general medical care and life altering surgeries. It was the most profound life experience I’ve ever had. A privilege. A gift. Thank you so much for sharing.
Carol Shriver Sexton
This is the first time I’ve commented on a post. I praise God for what you are doing. You keep doing what us in your heart and I will continue to love who you are. This is what God has asked you to do and you are doing it beautifully. I am now even more interested in knowing you. Thank you for sharing yourself. Have a safe trip.
Ani @afotogirl
This is your space … Your special place on the internet. We are along for the ride. What excites you, excites us. Follow your heart and write about whatever you want, what inspires you, what makes you tick, what makes you happy to be a part of this human existence. You are here to share and to teach. This chapter is no different. I applaud your decision and look forward to sharing in your experiences.
Lesa
Love this! You can’t change who you are and we wouldn’t want you to.
Annie
I love you more than ever.
Joan Rodriguez
Never hesitate to share posts like this. I make me like you even more and shows your great character. How proud your parents must be of you.
Kelly
I am so happy about what’s happening here. I love that you said yes this time, and I love that you are just putting.it.out.there. I know so many little lives will be blessed because of you. The biscuits are amazing, but THIS is what really matters.
Mary
I don’t feel alienated, guilty, or annoyed. Quite the contrary. I feel like you have taken a very brave step and let us all in to a part of your life that you would be perfectly content to keep to yourself. I feel honored.
Kate
I am enjoying your words and photos from Uganda so much. Just beautiful.
Keri
I am interested in more than just your cooking Joy, don’t worry about posting other kinds of content. We’re with you regardless! My beautiful baby daughter died in 2010. I found through Compassion I can sponsor a girl who is the exact age she would be. That makes my heart feel good. Safe travels.
Diana
What a beautifully written post! I just wanted to say that I really appreciate you sharing this experience. To be honest, at first a part of me was like, wait where are the cupcakes, but hearing about this type of experience is the kind of thing that sticks with me and I’ve definitely been thinking about your journey this week. (And that’s my own run-on sentence contribution. :)) Thank you.
Mackie
Proud of you for being bold in your faith. First time commenter but long time reader & listener. Emily freeman goes to my church. Don’t know her personally though. Uganda has been on my heart this year after reading kisses from Katie & stuff from Jen hatmaker. I believe it’s making the way I live change for the better. Way to step out in faith even if not all your readers agree/care. Your treasures are in heaven.
Shannon P
Joy, I love to read about what you are cooking…but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised when you began posting about your trip! Being transparent about my faith is something that has been difficult for me at times and I appreciate your honesty-it encourages me to stand firmly in my faith too. Thanks for sharing a little more about yourself!
Katie @ Wonderfully Made
I like that this can be a space for both layers of cake and layers of the heart. Thank you for sharing this piece of your journey. Keep writing real and you can’t go wrong!
Michele
Thank you for sharing!
Silvia
I have never done this…. Well, hello Joy. I’m a spanish girl, I live in Madrid and I have been reading your place for years… I admire your way of cooking, your writing, and above all, what you transmit when I read your words… I have never writen on a place like that, but I only wanted you to know something: I use to read your website about twice a week (or even more if I see the notification saying that you have posted something knew :) ) but since you said that you were going to Uganda, and the reasons why you were doing it, one of the first things that I do in the morning is to get into your website to see if you have writen something knew, or to see if you have posted new photographs, and I repeat it in the afternoon or at night, because I want to see more!!….And the whole speech is only to say to you: please, don’t stop talking about it!
Your words are close to my heart…
I’m sorry for my English…..
Regards from Spain and (I’m sure but) enjoy your adventure!!!
joythebaker
thank you so much for this encouraging comment! i appreciate you so much!
B
Joy,
I have enjoyed and been challenged by these posts. I support a child through Food for the Hungry and these posts are inspiring me to connect by more than just sending funds. Thanks for the food and the thoughts
kristn
This is truly a very small world. I read your blog on the reg and have made countless dishes and treats with your recipes. You had me at tomato cobbler oh-so-long ago and I’ve been a silent student of yours ever since. And today you have a link to Shaun Groves site! Crazypants. I grew up with Shaun and his wife Becky. So happy to see that you said yes to the Uganda trip and I’m very excited to read more posts like this! Most likely, while waiting for my next batch of bleu cheese biscuits to bake.
joythebaker
this makes me smile big!
Jeff Goins
It’s such an honor to know you, Joy. You have a heart of pure gold — and I’m sure your cupcakes are pretty good, too. I love when bloggers show the “other side” of themselves, the part that people don’t always see. I think it makes the exchange more conversational, more real.
Tracy
I come for the cooking but you almost have my convinced to sponsor a child. My children are adopted internationally and I loved how your fellow blogger sponsors a child in her children’s name when they turn 5. I always feel like the organization is taking all the money and none really goes to the children. You almost have me convinced this is a good organization….their site is down right now but I am looking because of your trip/posts.
Elly
It instills more confidence in me as well that Charity Navigator does a pretty thorough job assessing organizations like this and gives Compassion International such a high rating. It’s cool to be able to see so many details regarding accountability, transparency, and finances: http://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&orgid=3555#.UupsCj1dXng
Julie Hashimoto-McCreery
your heart is wide open in the most incredible, real way… and it’s so inspiring to read and experience. you’re an incredible human, joythebaker. thanks for sharing you, with all of us.
Rosie
Life can’t always be just biscuits and gravy (or chocolate syrup, whichever) and this trip you’re taking, we (your readers) are taking it with you and I am so happy that you have chosen to share this experience. I’m not currently in a position to travel to Uganda, but someday. Your compassion and faith shines through your pictures and your writing and that is pretty darn cool, like bacon wrapped in bacon cool. Thank you.
Laura Liira
thank you for following the tugging in your heart and saying yes! i have the privilege of sponsoring a little girl named Kushi in India through Compassion. her birthday is coming up, so i’m very excited to see what she’ll get with her birthday money.
thank you to opening up our eyes to these beauties in Uganda. xo
Ana
I am so happy you are blogging about your faith and your trip to Uganda. I dream of doing what you’re doing now and I hope to one day be as brave as you are and take the leap.
I come to this space for more than biscuits so keep it up, Joy!
Sheri
It’s so sweet of you to worry, but ‘alienated, guilty, downright annoyed’ is definitely NOT how I feel while reading this week. More like ‘teary, loving, inspired.’ (Six hens and a dress!) I’m a longtime lurker round these parts, but today I absolutely want you to know what a bonkers awesome thing you’re doing here, and how crazy great it is that you’re lending your voice to such an important organization. Well done, you! xo
annelies
Cats and biscuits aside, I’m so proud of you, Joy for pursuing your JOY in sharing others stories and celebrating them through photos that make my eyes tear up and giving of yourself and your blog so that their faces and stories could be known. Thanks for taking the risk and saying yes. Thanks for letting your life be changed and inviting us on the journey in a small way with you.
Michelle ~ Blogging from the Boonies
I have never visited your blog before this trip. I came because I love Compassion, love these trips and the stories they tell. I am even more personally invested in this trip because of my love for Uganda and the fact that I had to decline coming along with you.
I never really thought about what your regular readers might be thinking about all of these posts.
I do hope their hearts are stirred, I hope they realize that a small financial sacrifice and some time each month to write letters can do live changing things for a family an ocean away.
I am praying that your readers have hearts that are opened by what you have shared. Thank you for saying yes and for giving us a glimpse into what you are experiencing!
Kelli
Great encouragement. I can’t wait to read more!
Tracy Shutterbean
LOVE. That picture of you makes me heart smile. I can’t wait to write letters to my Compassion buddy!!! You’re truly an inspiration. MAJ.
Aubrey
It’s so funny that you should post this right now. I was actually pondering exactly this earlier today, “I wonder what her readers think of these posts? I hope doesn’t alienate anyone…” But I’ve just realized that (um, duh) I AM one of your readers, and I have SO enjoyed hearing about your experiences in Uganda. I’m so glad you said yes to Shaun. And that you’re sharing your thoughts with us in a voice that only Joy the Baker has. Fist bump.
Sue
I’ve travelled around Uganda, more as a tourist (gorilla trekking, hiking, white water rafting etc) and without looking for it, seen just some of what you’re seeing. You bring a voice to something that needs it. Thank-you
Rossi @ A Baking Girl
I have loved hearing about your time in Uganda, and I truly appreciate the chance to go along on this journey with you. Thank you!
Mike
Thank you for sharing this Joy, it makes me love your blog even more. Please do share more of this amazing adventure/experience with us, I want to know all about it!
Peace
Mike
Reba
I am so happy for you and Iove where your heart is and your faith. I am praying about being a sponsor for compassion. God bless you.
Nadia
Joy, thank you for sharing these experiences with us. I love you because you are quirky, relatable and honest. I read every post of yours and they always bring a smile to my face. These last few have brought tears. Good tears! You’ve reminded me of things I shouldn’t forget and give me the courage to help others. I didn’t know how great of a writer you are until this week. My husband I will be praying about sponsoring a child. If nothing else we’ll do a one time donation. Thank you!
JAY
first you fill my head with wonderful ideas to feed my family. then you fill my belly with delicious ideas that have come to life. now you’ve filled my heart with compassion and the dedication to selflessness. thank you for sharing
Jodi
Ditto.
Kelly
I think there can be perfect harmony between your cupcake posts, and your helping humanity posts. Just say it.
Arthur in the Garden!
What a wonderful experience!
Rosetta
We must be compassionate in this often-cruel world. We have nations of haves and have nots and many don’t seem to have any concern for anyone but themselves throughout the world. Thanks for showing us the other side of the world.