Joy The Baker

1 week ago | joythebaker.com | Toby Rose

The biggest game changer for our family this school year has been having the kids—ages 7, 9, and 11—make their own lunches. I’ve been trying to get them to do more around the house, specifically in the kitchen, and they enjoy being trusted with the responsibility. Following the loose guidelines of including one fruit and vegetable, they love having autonomy over their lunchboxes.

2 months ago | joythebaker.com | Toby Rose

The scene is all set for your Oscars party: You’ve sent out the invites, printed ballots, and watched at least a few of the films. But you still need some ideas for dishes to serve alongside all the glitz and glamor. Don’t worry, we have you covered. Below are a few of our favorites to accompany this year’s Best Picture Nominees. We included a cocktail, a few apps, some mains and, because this is Joy the Baker, plenty of desserts.

Jul 13, 2024 | joythebaker.com | Toby Rose

Hello, friends!How’s your summer going? I had a bit of a detour last month when I was laid up in bed recovering from Gum Surgery. Yup, that’s right. Other women my age are getting Botox and (.)(.) jobs, but I had to get a gum lift to treat my recessed gums. And, let me tell you: It was awful. I could only eat smoothies and soup for two weeks.

May 18, 2024 | joythebaker.com | Toby Rose

Hello, friends!How are you holding up … in nature? The cicadas have arrived in Nashville to make everything weird. After hibernating for the past 13 years—plotting—they’re now darting around looking for mates. Their screaming is constant and there are Biblical swarms of them to duck from as you go about your daily tasks, like taking a walk or opening your car door. Some neighborhood kids paint the shells with nail polish so every once in a while I’ll swat away a cicada donning a lavender shell.

Apr 13, 2024 | joythebaker.com | Toby Rose

Hello, friends!One of my kids is riddled with anxiety which, of course, stresses me out. So anxious is his entire little generation—these Covidians—that they named the new character in this summer’s Inside Out sequel Anxiety. But recently I stumbled upon a trick that helps calm his nerves at least for a bit. Since he’s most chatty before bed, he’ll start ticking off things that worry him right when I’m ready to clock out for the evening.