What a Delightful Adventure!

Greetings, companions. Here we are, the last Sunday of the year, wrapping up the tabs on a tumultuous year characterized by high peaks and deep valleys.

This year, I acquired the Bakehouse Texas—a vision so immense it appeared as if the heavens opened just for me. Then… I settled in – cue the soundtrack of every horror film as I comprehended the extent of the repairs awaiting my attention. Tremendous highs. Significant lows. To be frank, I spent the initial months believing I had made the gravest error of my existence in purchasing this residence. Yet here we are, months later, and I’ve adapted to the disorder of a century-old home. Kind of? Each time I round the corner and see it still upright, I regard that as a victory. And filling my home with family, meals, and a wedding on the porch – all these things help dispel the fear.

I have grand aspirations for 2025. Could I suggest it sounds like a promising year rolling off the tongue? I truly appreciate what Amy referenced about hope last week. About how hope carries “dirt on her face and blood on her knuckles.” That’s me. I’m confident that’s you as well. Struggling with it and striving for it.

I want to express my gratitude to Abby, Amy, and Toby for their considerate remarks on the site and in the magazine this year—and you, cherished reader, for embracing them with the same warmth you provide every Sunday. You are the reason I eagerly anticipate this ritual week after week, and it genuinely means the world to me.

So let’s conclude this year with links worth saving and a pot of Black Eyed Peas and Cornbread Dumplings simmering on the stove. Here’s to Gentle January and a brand-new year on the horizon.

• You shed tears during Beyoncé’s Christmas day concert as well, right? There’s no greater production than a Beyoncé concert. They say nothing is flawless but that was literal perfection. (Youtube)

•  If the onset of the new year has you contemplating how to optimally organize your days, here’s  24 Hours of Highly Subjective Wisdom. As someone who still functions on baker’s hours, I concur with about 20% of this.  Where do you align? (Slate)

•  I enjoyed this little insight into us:  How Gmail Became Our Diary (NY Mag)

• If the inquiry is “but do these mayo biscuits taste like mayo?” the result is, you’re welcome, yes! (Instagram)

•  The Mom Calendar is both enlightening and agonizing.  (Romper)

• Now appears to be an opportune moment to incorporate some summer flavors into our weekday menus with this Ceviche-Style Passionfruit (or should we try Pineapple?) Shrimp. Enough holiday fare, right? I believe this shrimp dish would be delightful over warm buttered rice; indeed, most things are appealing over warm buttered rice. (Prevention)

•  The solution to everything is dark leafy vegetables. 7 Simple Ways To Actually Reduce Inflammation In the Body (Self)

•  Are you evading this year’s cold and flu, as well? While we’re in good health, let’s prepare a batch of Fire Cider, quick quick.  (The Kitchn)

•  It’s simply a matter of time until I indulge and purchase…

this exceptionally adorable dress from Reformation. (The Reformation)

• Without a doubt, the finest acquisition I made this year has been these Land’s End bath towels. I believed I was content with the variety of Target hand towels, but I realized I was mistaken – these towels are substantial, incredibly plush, and do not shed. These are the only towels I desire to possess now, so I’m treating myself and purchasing a few bath towels since they’re discounted. Highly recommend. (Land’s End)

• While sitting in my living room, I just heard the massive Christmas tree I have elaborately adorned on my porch topple over. Not ideal. I’ll interpret this as a cue to take apart the tree, haul it up to the attic, and begin preparing for Mardi Gras. Bellville is not prepared. (The Atlantic)

• It’s that time again for our yearly pot of Black Eyed Peas and Cornbread Dumplings. Non-negotiable. (Joy the Baker)

• Let us remind ourselves that we are merely days away from Gentle January and I believe we should all take this very earnestly this year. Lastly, I appreciate your lovely remarks about The Story of Us. It astonishes me that so many of you have lingered in this small corner of the internet for more than a decade! Just a thought… I think we have a love story, too. (Joy the Baker)

Mmmkay – It’s time to finalize all our tabs and commence anew with a fresh year.

My affection to you and Happy New Year!

xo Joy