Hello friends! Today’s Sunday post is a bit different. I turned 38 this weekend and each new year has me feeling reflective of years past. I stood in my closet yesterday, suddenly deep in my thoughts, staring blankly at a few cotton dresses I might throw on when I thought – wait… did I make like, a five year plan a few years ago? Did I leave a note for myself? I know what I’m doing, right!?
I freaked out for a moment. Then another moment. Then I chose a floral cotton dress and took a deep breath. I’ve been leaving myself notes all along. For the last 11 years. Here, for better or worse, with you.
It’s funny having a record of all the things I’ve been SURE about for the last 11 years, though funny isn’t the right word. The right descriptive word exists somewhere between ‘mortified’ and ‘I-don’t-give-a-f*ck’. What’s that word?
Most of the word I’ve shared here over the years have been about butter, cream, pies, and cakes though some have been about boys, and future-husbands, and potential love interests. I expressed a lot of confidence in the words about butter and cake because I wanted you to charge into your own kitchens with that same fortitude. I felt a lot of hope and surety in the words about my future as though loveandsuch was mine to plan and control.
It’s a wonder to grow older and grow deeper and to have so many more questions that answers. You know?
I left a lot of notes.
In 2009 I left this note to myself (Dear Future Joy the Baker) after my first solo vacation. I took myself on a short road trip up California to finish my first book proposal and I wanted to remind my future self (I thought by then I’d surely be married with children) of what a glorious and freeing time I’d had. I’m happy to still be thriving in that glorious freedom – still buying myself the fancy shampoo – not stopping anytime soon mmkaythanks.
A few months later, in what can only be described as absolute boy-crazy blatherings I wrote How To Impress Boys With Baking. I think my current essay in the same vein would be something like Don’t Let A Dude In Your House – It’s So Nice They Won’t Ever Want To Leave. Which is the truth… hand to God.
In a moment of early social media heartache I wrote I Accidentally Saw A Picture of You. Now, those sorts of accidents are more ubiquitous and we have to stop ourselves from going down a late-night Instagram stalk. Honestly now I know that there’s nothing an Instagram-stalk can tell me that I actually want to know. I would now write the post, Wow I’m So Glad I Didn’t Marry You (or anyone, really). Aaaand, that’s that about that.
I still stand by this advice from eight years ago: In every situation, consider the likelihood of skinny-dipping. Act accordingly.
Other such gems can be found here, Things I’ve Learned In Thirty Years.
At 32 I visited New Orleans with two friends, not knowing that one day I’d live around the corner from where we rented bikes and tooled around. Proof positive that the future is a wonder and a mystery. I also felt really compelled to tell myself how to act in ‘the club’: Upon entering ‘the club’ where people are drinking and dancing and acting a fool (and it’s so much fun), be aware of the fact that you look like you’re in your 30’s… because you are. You’re not fooling anyone. The 25 year old guy that yells in your ear that you look 28… he’s being nice and he’s a liar. You look 32. It’s ok. Dazzle him with your awkward dance moves. He’s 25… who cares (not you!).
I wasn’t wrong. More: Thirty-Two.
Just a few years ago I was feeling pretty content at 35. I bought a house and a pair of diamond earrings. Just things – but that contentment continues and I try to foster it daily. This is 35.
In many ways it feels like Joy the Baker is a space that sort of stands still, but that can’t be true. I’m here swirling around, growing and learning, laughing and hurting – but the root as always been in butter and flour – sharing cakes and cookies. So many of you have been here since the very early days, finding your own way. Graduating and marrying and starting families and celebrating and mourning all that life is.
I hope today’s post inspires you to think back to your growth the past 11 years. It’s momentous – there’s no way it’s not. And for all the cringe, there are signs of growth as we expand the capacity of our hearts and the reach of our arms. It’s real hero-work to be look back and welcome your past self forward.
Let’s high-five and blow out another year of candles because wow what a privilege it all is.
I hope you have a most beautiful Sunday.
My love to you.
xo Joy
Teddi
I’m a bit late getting this comment in, but I just wanted to let you know that your very best years are ahead. I am 30 years older than you. I remember my 38th year so well. I guaranty that your best years are ahead.. You get more confident with who you are and what really matters. You just get stronger and more able to handle life’s challenges. Your wonderful blog is evidence that you are ahead of the curve – so a belated happy birthday, and best wishes for many more to come.
Ruth
38 is one great number to be. But worry not, oh pretty one. 40’s and 50’s will be pretty great, too. Hydrate, exercise, smile and eat. You won’t feel a day over 38 for the rest of your life. Happy belated birthday! Always love reading your stuff.
Allie
Such an incredibly lovely post. I also turned 38 this year, and I don’t take time to often to look to the past, but you have inspired me to today. 11 years – marriage, international moves, travel, too many jobs to count, love, and sadly loss. It’s been a whirlwind! Happy birthday bella! To many more baking adventures, travels, boys, and notes to your future self.
Whitney Bates
Happy Birthday, Joy! I am a long-time reader, though this is my first time to comment. Thank you for writing How to Impress a Boy with Baking. Back in the day I was a super shy 20-something. I did indeed make brownies not long after reading your post and lo and behold…they did impress a boy! I’m not as shy as I once was, but I thank you for writing a post that gave me a confidence boost when I needed it. Even now in my 30s, the heart of what you said still rings true–genuine giving is always attractive!
Theadora
I first discovered your blog about 10 years ago while working very late on a project. I was newly graduated, newly employed, newly married. I shirked work that evening to binge your whole dang blog. A lot has changed since then (I’m divorced, I’ve moved cross country twice, I have changed jobs) and it feels a lot like we’ve grown up together. As your walk down memory lane encourages me to meander my own path I can’t help but laugh as I am sitting here, working very late on a project, procrastinating by catching up on your blog.
Carrie
That ‘I accidentally saw a picture of you’ post was everything. You have taken me back to the way it hit my heart when I first read it. Much love to you Joy – I have so appreciated your words over the years – thanks for being consistent, kind and caring always x
Melissa Martin
Totally procrastinated from editing to read this. So sweet and honest. Dinner soon please.
Julia
Happy Birthday, Joy! I am a longtime reader but just now realized you are a fellow Gemini.
It’s a true pleasure to follow along with your thoughts over the years. You make me feel blessed and hopeful to have entered this next decade.
Congratulations on all you have accomplished, this year and always. You bring such JOY to my life!
xox,
A Stranger Named Julia
Kimberly
I have so enjoyed reading your blog for the past several years. This post is so lovely. Happy birthday!
Sarah
Happiest of birthdays, Joy. I love growing up with you. From accidentally seeing a photo of you on the internet to now, you’re right on time for where you’re supposed to be. Thank you for sharing yourself with the world. ??
Janabelle
Dear Joy,
I felt this post and all the posts linked in it. Thanks for always keeping it real here and on your Instagram. You’re an inspiration in baking and in life. Happy Belated Birthday.
Lisa A
I turned 37 on May 26th and I’ve loved coming o this space over the past 8-9 years and I’ve loved your birthday posts. I distinctly remember finding comfort in your turning 30 post (while I was a wee 29 year old). As someone who has also taken the less traditional life path (also not married) thank you for sharing and being you. Don’t ever stop being honest, vulnerable and baking all the things!
Emma
Happy birthday, Joy!
You have no idea how much I needed to read this post today. I feel like it was quite serendipitous to stumble back onto your site and hit this one whilst I’m having a moment of ‘wtf am I doing with my life’ (the answer: lots and lots and lots, when I consider it).
And this: ‘Upon entering ‘the club’ where people are drinking and dancing and acting a fool (and it’s so much fun), be aware of the fact that you look like you’re in your 30’s… because you are. You’re not fooling anyone.’ I say this all the time to my friends: please let me know when I become ‘that’ person. But really I’m happy to be ‘that’ person, dancing in the club, having so much fun I couldn’t care less if people know I’m in my 30s. Hope to be doing it still in my 40s too.
Again, happy birthday. Will raise a glass to you when I’m on the dancefloor tonight.
Courtney
Happy Birthday Joy! Love your perspective on what a privilege it all is :) I’m thankful for your beautiful writing and recipes!
Koa Roberts
I love your blog. In 2009 I had just had my first (only) kiddo, was soon contemplating (then doing) divorce. At some point I made your “get a guy” cheesecake (exact name of cheesecake is I think mine not yours) and it did get the really super sweet much better suited to me than the first guy guy, who I then had years of on/offs with (excellent cheesecake after all can only be the opener to a relationship, not the closer). I started a new career in real estate because there is nothing like stone cold fear and 100% self employment to fuel fulfillment. I’m sure you’ve written this sentiment somewhere. I’ve baked lots of what you’ve said would be delicious and it was, I’ve bought cookbooks you’ve recommended, I’ve read articles you’ve said were impactful. I just went to Vegas for a weekend with my KG bffs and we all stayed mostly sober by the pool laughing about life because all the cig smoke in the casinos was burning our eyes. We cared SO LITTLE what anyone thought and had so much fun. My 10 year old son loves cheesecake too, and I make it for him sometimes, as I make it for the (same, still, forever) boyfriend, and seriously all is good. Happiest birthday to a fantastic blogger and assuredly a fantastic person.
joythebaker
This means the actual world to me and that is not hyperbolic. I’m glad we’re in this together.
Amanda Smits
Joy,
Long time reader, first time commenter. Firstly, Happy Birthday! Secondly, thank you for this post – it’s absolutely beautiful and really hit home for me. I don’t think we take the time often enough to think about how “momentous” life really is. I needed the reminder.
Thank you,
Amanda
Sharmeen
Some good advice in your musings. You’re totally right about boys liking tight jeans and casual T shirt. I’ve only just learnt this in the last 6 months. I’m 35. I wish I’d been reading your blog since day 1; I would have learn this a lot sooner. Warm chocolate chip cookies… Sounds like something I should make for myself.. tonight!
Happy Birthday Joy!
gizella
aw happy birthday! i feel like you are part of my daily life because so many of your recipes are (i just made those pull-apart babka muffins dang). glad to be growing and changing right along with you .
Suzanne
You are gorgeous, and generous and gifted!
Many happy returns.
Carlin
Amazing. Thank you for your earnest honesty. Although I’m not one of the OG’s who’ve followed you for the last 10+ years, I majorly respect and admire both your realness and your fluid ability to be so forthcoming. I love your Sunday posts and have a folder of them in my email account. Yay for 38! And a huge Yay for admitting us thirty-somethings won’t ever look 25 again – but that’s the beauty, isn’t it?
Gabby D
What a beautiful post! I have followed your blog for years (although not ALL the years) and so enjoy you, links to Jon’s blog, and NOLA – one of my favorite places. This is the first time I’ve commented; your post was too amazing not to.
Happy Birthday to You!
Katie
This post and blog is great! Thanks for sharing yourself with us. Happy birthday!
akbright
Like others have said, thank you for sharing your posts – they are an oasis in the dessert of life. :0 Happy Birthday to you, and may your new year ahead be filled with much laughter and light.
Lauren
Happiest Birthday Joy! Thanks for being a great source of inspiration and my Sunday friend. You have helped us more than you will ever know. Cheers to 38!
Maggie
Can’t put my finger on exactly why, but this post made me tear up. We’re all out here doing it as best we can. Life is good. Happy birthday to you and thank you for the weekly pause button you provide in these posts.
Rachel
I love your writing so much – I love the butter and the flour and the sugar recipes too (the goat cheese biscuits are my go-to) but I love your non-food writing so much. Thanks for being so honest and lovely and fierce. (Also that pic of you walking down the corridor – damn girl!) I’ve been here for 10ish years, and I can’t wait to see how you keep fiercely writing and cooking. Thank you!
abby macmillan
happy birthday joy! thank you so much for your wonderful & heart-ful words of wisdom over the years — i’ve been following since at least that 30th birthday post (i was 16 then and 24 now, oop), so thank you so much for showing me an adulthood thats gorgeously free and inspired and full of friends and baking and joy. this has been such a homey, lovely space, thank you for keeping it on the internet over all these years <3
johanna @ green gourmet giraffe
Happy birthday – this post gave me a laugh as well as some food for thought and some eye candy. Blogging is odd to look back upon but as the years gather so do the posts and the occasional embarrassment but mostly a path to where you are now. Enjoy your celebrations.
Lisa (Malmö)
Happy Birthday Joy! I can’t belive I’ve known you for so long. I cherish this buttery, sugary, colorful space that you offer and hope you feel the love radiating through the screen from all the corners (and pantries) of the world!
Lyz
I loved these words. I also had a birthday this weekend (32 for me) and have been thinking a lot about growing older and learning lessons and loving all the changes and surprises life has in store along the way. Your journey really resonates with me (I’ve also been writing about life through the lens of food for the last ten years), and I’m certainly not where I thought I’d be ten years ago, but I’m loving where I am. Thank you!
Patsy
Happiest of birthdays, Joy! You are a blessing to so many…may you be blessed in return today and in this next year! Keep doing what you are doing , please :) best wishes !
Karen B
that was beautiful.
Jen
OMG, this means I’ve been reading along side you, getting grown, and upping my pie and cinnamon bun game for 11 years. Very happy birthday! I appreciate all your words and thoughts and inspirations shared time and again. It’s certainly had an influence on me all this time. Here’s to always working towards the best versions of ourselves! <3
Patrick
I’ve been reading since the beginning. First I just came for the baking. Then I developed a crush on you. Then one time you said you ate pickles from the jar standing in front of the open fridge door and I knew I loved you. Sadly though, I’m 60, soon to be a grandpa and even more in love with my wife of 38 years. But based on what you write at 38 it appears you’re doing fine without me. Happy birthday and every day as you continue your journey.
Caro
Many happy returns, Joy!
I ‘found’ you many many many years ago when your first book was recommended by another baking blog.
The other blogger has since fallen away from my notice, and your presence continues to build steam!
Thank you for many years of reading in this authentic space.
Lise
Happy birthday, Joy! And thank you for yet another lovely post! I accidentally stumbled across your blog many years ago now and it’s always been such a pleasure reason what you have to say about baking – and the world. Being in a similar situation and celebrating my birthday the day after yours I can often relate so well to what you have to say.
Congratulations again and keep up that great attitude to life!
xxx Lise
Hilary
Happy birthday. This wonderfully written post helped me appreciate the growth in my own seemingly unchanged life. Thanks for the new perspective.
Megan
Happiest of birthdays to you, Joy!
Javier S.
38? Nah!, you are 25. I can see it.
Emily
Happy birthday Joy! I’m a little surprised to see how long I’ve been reading by how many of these posts I remember — time goes fast! I have loved following you for both the recipes, but often more so, the links and thoughts and life advice in these posts. I hope you had a wonderful birthday!
Haley
I just turned 36 a couple weeks ago and Don’t Let A Dude into Your House—It’s So Nice They Won’t Ever Want To Leave is THE REALEST and is my actual life rn. I cackled. It’s weird and wonderful feeling seen and understood by a stranger. Thank you for offering that gift to me and so many others in this space. What a wonder indeed!
joythebaker
We see each other.
Jamie
Happy Birthday, Joy! Great post!! What?? Those boys are lying when they told me I don’t look my age? Well, I wasn’t lying when I told them they don’t act their age. Cheers!
joythebaker
Amen amen!
Nicole
The happiest birthday wishes to you, Joy. I’ve been on this ride since close to the beginning, although I don’t even remember how I found your blog way back when. If I think back to reading and trying some of your recipes for the first time, it reminds me of what was going on at the time, and all the ups and downs since then. Lessons on how to make the perfect pie crust and sharing the best weeknight potatoes are much appreciated, and also thank you for the real talk beyond that. For instance, super low key while still very important, where to hear about staying sexy and not getting murdered. All the best to you.
xo nicole
Terri
Happy Birthday Joy! Thank you for all your wonderful posts filled with great recipes,wonderful inspiration and fascinating stories. Wishing you the most magical year ahead..
Your eternal fan,
Terri
http://www.gotoglamourgirl.com
.
Prissy
Have a wonderful 38! Marriage? Eh. It can be good, it can be bad. I’ve had couple eh and one pretty much a nightmare. But I got out (safely). You are a strong woman, the only kind to be in my book. But on occasion, there are men who want to make that strength their own. Bah, skip those.
I have a partner now (finally). But I was happy being single too. Children can be a delight and they can be a deep, heartbreaking disappointment. You don’t know which way that goes until they are grown and out the door…
So anyway, enjoy and cheers to you!
Robin
You rock! That is all.
Karen Bunch
I have followed you for years, sorry I’m not more conversational (leave comments). I have cut and pasted some of your wisdom for my own inspiration. I’m much (much) older than you and you seem to have such a wonderful outlook on life. I’ve worked on that for all of 60+ years…a work in progress. Haha.
Happy, happy birthday!
Karen
Diane in Suffolk, VA
Happy Birthday! Thank you for such a beautiful and insightful post. Wishing you many more beautiful and blessed birthdays!??
Rosa
Reading since 2010! I love your joy and willingness to learn and change. Baking always brings me back to my truest self :) loooove your blog
Julie Myers
“Give thanks for unknown blessings that are already on their way.” Native American prayer
Your life is anchored in gratitude. That comes through loud and clear, and at the same time soft and subtle, in all of your posts.
I am making a rhubarb cake today…..and I will be thinking of you!
joythebaker
I love these words Julie!
Christine
Happiest of birthdays to you, Joy. You are an inspiration to many. Me? I woke up one day and said WTF?! How did I get to be 50-f-ing-9? Where does the time go? Enjoy every one of these “how did I get to be this old?” moments. Looking back I have gone from being my 20 year old me – insecure, tragically widowed 4 months 10 days into the marriage, reconnections and 3 children (still insecure, still not convinced of my worth) to who I am today – less insecure (but still a little), I finally learned to grow into my choices and become me. I am an artist (instead of a computer programmer). I am successful. I am a miner. I am a business owner. I am married to my best friend. I still have trouble looking in a mirror or seeing myself in photos – but I am learning how to accept me. To think it has taken 50-F-ing-9 years. haha. May the growth never stop! Enjoy!
Eva Wierzbinski
Happy birthday weekend Joy! Love reading your posts and absolutely love your books! Enjoy the beautiful life you have!
Elise
I’ll also never forget the note you wrote for those who are ‘turning 21’… such wise and caring words you have for others and yourself!
Tess
A very happy birthday to you, Joy!
On a totally separate note, could you share any sewing gems/patterns you found on the internet? I remember reading something on your lists earlier this year about seeing. I’ve found my searches to be less than fruitful – most clothing patterns are either really complex or look like they were cool in 2005! Neither of those are exactly what I’m looking for…
Thank you!
nancyabc
I’ll soon be 67 and always thought I would be married and have children, that it would just come to me.
I needed to work at it as hard as I worked in my classroom (or you on a cookbook).
Those notes are hopes of what you want for your future and what plans do you have to make them come true.
Hope you had a wonderful birthday weekend.
Karen T
Happy Birthday! Remember to write yourself another note…it was wonderful reading the ones you shared. Life is a journey and you are taking it as your own and enjoying it!
Ruth
Happy Birthday beautiful and may all your dreams com true. And stay sexy, strong and healthy.
A Bigg Kiss to you.. from The Netherlands
Suellen
I so hope you enjoyed your special day. I enjoy your musings, suggestions, recommendations and recipes. Although I’m more of a savory cook, I have ventured into baking because of you. Love your family stories and no worries about marrying. I married at 47 (now 20 years), so take your time. You’re an awesome woman. Thank you, for being you.
Adrienne in Atlanta
I think that space between zero fucks and mortification is wisdom. Your gentle vulnerability in these posts is brave and admirable. Keep on keeping on. Every year you’ll get more comfortable in your skin (I’m sure you’ve noticed this already), even though (I’ve got 3 years on you) some days I still want to give the world the double birds!!!
Happy birthday! Age ain’t nothin but a number anyway.
Ava Vivion
Happy Birthday! I am new to your blog but I love your personality and recipes! I also celebrated my birthday this weekend, just a tad older at 47. I wish you your best year yet and look forward to following your writing and recipes.
Kathy Luff
Happy birthday Joy, from one of your UK readers. I’ve followed your blog and read every one, from just before you moved to New Orleans. So much inspiration and so much good food. Well done. I will continue to read whatever you write. 3very best wishes for the next 38 years!
Julia
11 years ago, I was in high school and it was a year until I’d find this blog. There has DEFINITELY been growth. And I’ve admired yours along the way! Your writing has always felt like a friend chatting, but the topics you chat about have changed and it’s… momentous. ;)
Katherine
You’re one of my favourites! Happy birthday Joy.
Roma
Right back atcha. Been here a long time (maybe even 11 years? Who can say for sure at this venerable age?) just following along, tracing the parallels and pounds of butter, never saying a word but really I’ve always been thinking some version of this, so here it is again, with feeling: “Right back atcha!”
And happy birthday.
Jo
Happy Birthday! Thank you for the joy and hopefulness. And the cake!
CEC
Joy,
Thank you for sharing this beautiful post and your adventures with us. Over the years I have enjoyed your words, wit, love, and joys, your wonderful recipes, and watching you grow and march by the beat of your own drum. It is refreshing and simply quite nice to see someone forge their own path that isn’t the expected marriage + kids thing. It gives me hope and inspires me to feel good about the future as a 28 year old also contemplating the world and rambling along her own path in life. While our future selves may not turn out to be what we expected, they will be wonderful and unique and all the wiser. Thank you for being you.
Much love,
C
Nancy k
Today’s post is one of the reasons I love stopping by your little corner of the Internet. You are a wonderful communicator…your writing is so personal and expressive. It makes me want to call you a friend.
At 38, I bought a house,,,a fixer-upper that caused my friends to think I had gone totally mad. I have always felt that some years feel more special than others and for me, 38 was one of those I would readily go back to if I could. I wish you all the best as you continue to grow and learn and stretch yourself to experience all that life has to offer. Happy Birthday, Joy!!
Stella
Happy Birthday Joy,
As a long time reader and admirer, I want to thank you for sharing so much of yourself with us, I honestly feel I know you through your recipes, books, reflections and columns. I hope this birthday year brings continued growth and meaning to you.
JessicaD
This is GORGEOUS. Your wisdom and your reflection are deep and clear and on a steady and wondrous path. Thank you so much for sharing with us. Happy, happy birthday! xo – JessicaD
Hilary
I needed this! I have been struggling with aging and it is so important to remember what a privilege it is to grow, no matter how challenging it can be sometimes. Thank you for growing, baking, being real, and letting us along for the ride. Happy Birthday!
Anna Marie
Happy Birthday Joy! I wish you the best year ahead. Thank you so much for the “Let it By Sunday!” collections. I love lists and have never written a note to my future self. But I loved reading yours. I think back on myself at 18, 21, 30 (ahhh!), 40, and 50 (good lord). There was a time I didn’t know if I could make it to adulthood, and look at me, past middle age. Lifetimes are as amazing as you make them. Don’t follow anyone’s rules, we are all make this up as we go along.
Jackie S
Thank you for the wonderful words and
HAPPY BEAUTIFUL BIRTHDAY JOY :) you rock!
I’ll be cherishing your last few words especially and bringing them with me
” Let’s high-five and blow out another year of candles because wow what a privilege it all is.
I hope you have a most beautiful Sunday.”
Jackie
I never comment but I realize you have become you a cherished voice in my life. Happy birthday to you. I love your honesty and your perspective.
Marlene
Happy birthday, Joy! After all these years, your blog is still by far my favourite!
Arli
Happy Birthday!
Melissa
This is really lovely. Happy Birthday!
Katherine
Happy Birthday! This is a wonderful birthday post.
I love the dress you are wearing, too! Where did you find it?
Rose
Happy Birthday Joy! I’ve loved following your blog through my mid 20s and now into my early 30s. Your posts resonate with me such that they read like advice from a sister I never had. Cheers to you for bringing so much sunshine into my Sundays and for being you!
Caiti
Happy Birthday! I look forward to these posts every week, thanks for sharing all that you do
Gabrielle
What a letter! What a beautiful post! Thank you for your musings and encouragements and for sharing more than cakes with us. I’m one of the long time readers and it’s been so great having you in my life. Happiest of birthdays to you!
marie
Not embarrassing at all! Please don’t view it that way. Lots of wisdom in all those posts. As a long time reader (I remember that turning 30 post), please know that it inspiring to see how you’ve chased your own specific dreams and not just plugged away at the normative milestones that can be addictive to fall in line with – you have been relentlessly honest about your own joys and so few people in this world let allow themselves that bravery. Please know that you give out an impression of a life deeply well lived, one with honesty, integrity and joy. How many can say that? Here’s to more decades ahead of diamond earrings, good relationships and delicious food, and congrats on the life you’ve built.
Dana
happy birthday gorgeous, friend!
Taste of France
Joyeux anniversaire. Our discoveries are one thing, and what we really understand with age are another. Marriage is irrelevant, a social concept.
Adrienne in Atlanta
Amen.
cat
happy birthday!
I have goosebumps and will sit on the sofa crying for a few minutes, this is such a lovely post.
here’s to remembering our growth.
take care
cat
Emily
Happy birthday, Joy! It’s funny how time works. I absolutely remember reading the post about accidentally seeing a photo of a guy, when you first posted it. But I never would have guessed that was 10 years ago. Thanks for sharing so much of your life with us.
Susan
Happy birthday!!! Live reading all of your words, and looking forward to all that is to come.
Susan
*Love reading
Mo
Beautifully written. Have a happy birthday. Buy some fun hoop earrings for yourself today. Nothing says happy like hoops!
Emily Bartnikowski
Happy Birthday to you! Thank you so much for sharing your life and recipes with us! <3
Briel K.
Happy Birthday Joy! It’s pretty cool to be able to look back at your life all these years through your posts, embarrassing or not! :) I hope you had the best day! <3
Katie
Surely the Germans have an unwieldy compound word for that liminal space between being mortified and giving zero fucks. Happy Birthday!
Lisa
Yes, indeed, we do.
It’s “Ach” and you have to say it with a little bit of an… attitude.
Suellen
Hahaha!
bonnie
What a lovely wise guide you’ve been along the way for yourself, Joy. This has been such a joyous Let it Be Sunday post and birthday celebration! So gentle and deep down good. There’s more than butter and sugar and flour forming a solid foundation. It’s been such a pleasure to be along for the ride, for all the revelations — cringeworthy or not. We are all the same in it; you in such good company here! Thanks, Joy, and happy birthday weekend!
Valerie
Dear Joy,
Happy birthday. This column, like all your Let It Be Sundays!, is a delight.
I will be 67 this year. After decades of long term, monogamous relationships and a brief marriage at a very early age, I have been blissfully single for the past 11 years. This has been a decade of slowly learning how to have a relationship with myself. It’s also been a decade of embracing the amazing pleasure of getting to know myself and immersing myself in living happily alone.
Sounds like you are well on the path of loving yourself. So very glad that you did not let most of your life go by before you set foot on it. I wish you at least 38 more years of being your best self.
Thanks for all the Sundays. : )
Martha in KS
Valerie,
I am 67 & also use the term “blissfully single” but I’ve been single for 40 years – after an abusive marriage. I love my life & wouldn’t change places with my married friends for anything. It took me many years to get here.
Martha in KS
Happy Birthday to you. Thank you for your inspiring posts & wonderful recipes.
Michelle
Happy birthday! Thank you sharing you continuing story with us.
Amanda Bell
Happiest of birthdays, Joy. Thank you for being a consistent space to come to in everything—Joy, grief, growth, and wonder. It’s been many years since I first found your blog, and I’m so grateful for every recipe and post, all the wisdom and all the lightness. Thanks for sharing your life with us.