Top Images of Bethany Joy Lenz in 2012

2012 was a great year. Stroll down memory lane by checking out some of my favorite shots from the year!
(Click on the images to view interactive gallery).

Year Roundup: Top 10 Biggest News Bits of 2012

This year was a rollercoaster ride - with more ups and downs in one year than we've ever seen in the past. And I couldn't start 2013 without looking back. So check out my list of the Top 10 Biggest Moments of 2012!

10. Joy Finds Work at Men at Work

Remember that episode of One Tree Hill where Brooke and Haley get high off Quinn's brownies? And remember saying how hilarious it'd be to see Joy in a comedy? Well get ready to cross it off your wishlist for 2013. In her first acting gig post-One Tree Hill - Joy will join the four buddies of TBS' Men at Work as Meg, a hot mom who becomes the romantic interest of Tyler, played by Michael Cassidy of "The O.C." fame. As if that weren't enough, another O.C. alum, the handsome Benjamin McKenzie plays Meg's ex-husband who comes into the picture to try to win her back. Quite the yummy love-triangle, isn't it?

9. Love Warriors Start Bidding Wars 

This year Joy auctioned off her personal Season 9 Chair Back on ebay and the winning bid was a grand $1,580. She also auctioned off other autographed goodies like her pair of BC Wedges, a rare One Tree Hill script, and an a framed TRIC poster, with each item selling for more than half a grand. Pretty huge considering every penny went to LOVE 146 and Shoe Revolt, making the bidding wars totally worth it in the end.

8. First Glimpses of Baby Maria

There's a certain sensitivity online regarding the sharing of images of Joy's daughter. So imagine our surprise when we got our first glimpse of baby Maria Rose posing with her proud momma in an article posted by People. The mom and daughter pair are too cute for words!

7. Everly Decides to Call it Quits

Not going to lie, I saw this coming. As I'm sure many others did as well. But even so, I was still surprised when Joy confirmed it via whosay. Everly never did get around to releasing their official album, and something about unreleased music collecting dust on someone's laptop hurts my heart a little...

6. Joy Moves to L.A. & Warms Up to the Paps

For someone who has been a fan of Joy since the beginning of One Tree Hill, I was around for 2007 where Joy literally dropped off the face of the planet and avoided events in L.A. like the plague. If it wasn't for One Tree Hill, I literally thought she'd retreat to Battle Ground and we'd never hear of her again. But a bit after she wrapped things up in North Carolina, Joy packed her bags and relocated to the paparazzi epicenter of the world, aka Los Angeles. And I was beyond shocked - because now we have the pleasure of seeing her buzzing around L.A. and just straight up owning the place. Love it!

5. Joy releases Then Slowly Grows

After six years, we finally got to hear "Never Gonna Be" "Anybody Else" in its entirety and without people talking over it. One word: Finally.

4. 4 more for 44 - Joy Supporting President Obama

Intended for Fox News, in 2008 Joy released a slightly controversial video (to most democratic fans at least) when she spoke in favor of electing McCain and Palin. Although she generally keeps the political talk to a minimum, at the time it was surprising to see her outwardly declare her support for the republican duo. But could it be that over the last four years Joy has gained a soft spot for President Obama? Earlier this year I was super intrigued when Joy gave props to the prez for spontaneously singing a pretty kick-ass rendition of Al Green's "Let Stay Together" and then I was just pretty damned shocked when she retweeted "4 More For 44!!!". I can't say with certainty whether she voted Obama or not - but at the least its safe the say the president has won over her support this time around. And hurray for that!

3. Joy Shows off Post-Baby Body

Let's get it straight, losing weight and getting in shape is not easy. Ever. But boy, did Joy make it look easy peasy this year. After having baby Maria almost two years ago, Joy seems to be in the best shape we've ever seen her! And it shows. She seems to carry herself with a renowned confidence and spark - and it helps that her wardrobe has been super flattering and on point.

2. Splitsville: Joy and Michael File for Divorce

After tying knot in December 2005 and welcoming their first child, daughter Maria Rose in 2011 - Joy and Michael filed for a divorce in March of this year. To this day, I am still in utter shock and disbelief. But for what it's worth Joy has never looked better or seemed happier. Kudos to her for picking up the pieces as quickly as she did!

1. Fans Bid Farewell to good ole Tree Hill

Despite many attempts by network execs at the CW to pull the plug on the show once and for all, One Tree Hill survived nine entire seasons! That's 187 episodes people. All jammed packed with car crashes, unplanned pregnancies, attempted suicides, pyscho-nannies, insta fame and that's just to name a few.

But of course like everything else in this world, One Tree Hill finally came to end. And surprisingly, it was a graceful bow out. Mark Schwahn finally done good and wrapped things up pretty neatly for us. And for that, it's my top moment of 2012.

Fashion Spotlight: Bethany Joy Lenz is Pretty in Pink

On Friday, December 7,  Bethany Joy Lenz helped fellow Hollywood starlet and good friend, Lucy Hale celebrate her December/January Nylon Magazine cover in style at an event presented by bebe at Andaz West Hollywood.

Coincidentally enough, our dazzling diva slipped into a body hugging calypso coral peplum studded number by bebe. This embellished bebe dress, which is the perfect blend of glam and rocker chic, has a soft stretch silhouette that accentuates Joy's body perfectly. I'm all about the super feminine peplum style this season - since it gives the illusion of an hourglass figure by slimming down the waist.

To maximize the look, Joy paired this slinky number with metallic pumps by Dolce Vita and a teal clutch.

Overall, I love how Joy's wardrobe has become more sophisticated. The evolution from just a few years ago is incredible. Nevertheless, despite the risks she's taken in her wardrobe choices, she's been playing it pretty safe with her makeup. I love the fresh face look, but for an evening cocktail party I'd like to see her experiment with different colors and techniques to keep things interesting. Same goes with her hair - although I adore the effortless styles I'm still dying to see Joy switch it up with a more polished and structured look on the red carpet.

The Verdict: ★ ★ ★ ★

Joy's set the bar high this year. Can't wait to see her looks in 2013!

Album Review: Then Slowly Grows

Then Slowly Grows Album Front Photograph by Kiva Platters for Rablabs NY

And the wait is finally over.

Amid all the uninspiring noise on the radio, peace came to me in a flimsy cardboard slip with the words Then Slowly Grows printed on the cover. This is not only Joy’s third solo album but it’s the long-awaited answer to the exasperated prayers of many a loyal fan.

And boy was it worth the wait!

A promotional image of Bethany Joy Lenz
while signed under Epic Records (2006)

Then Slowly Grows is an intriguing balance of whimsy and introspection; making all the melodies so incredibly charming and fun to listen to. It’s the perfect little album to have floating around in the background on a morning stroll with its soothing instrumentals and head-in-the-sky lyrics.

One song in particular completes this album for me: "One Man to Love". Joy’s lullaby quality voice is raw and compelling – seeming to just melt in my ears. The lyrics are also unapologetically earnest and personal, and I find that these songs are my favorite – where Joy’s modest vocals intertwine with the soft sounds of a guitar or a piano a la "Ophelia" or "Elsewhere".

Not to be forgotten, are the soaring vocals that reel into a blooming instrumental wonderlands, in songs like "Devil’s Archerist", and "Then Slowly Grows". The musicality in these numbers is nothing short of incredible...

But with this, although brilliant in its own right, I fully understand why Epic Records chose to shelf this one. The force to compromise in the music industry is a lot stronger than many are willing to admit; and Then Slowly Grows in its preservation of honest and raw talent, lacks the polished beats and superfluous melodies of “radio friendly” singles. And with record labels – I find that the complexity isn’t in the music – these days it’s in the mechanisms behind the artist.

For me, the release of Then Slowly Grows isn’t exciting just for the music; it’s exciting because its the product of an artist who writes for the joy of writing, who sings for the love of performing and shares her gift for the love of music and not money.

In short – I love the album and everything it stands for. It is every bit as beautiful as it is addictive and I’m excited to see where Joy’s musical journey leads her.

To purchase the album visit BTF Concerts | Merchandise | Then Slowly Grows.

News Update: Bethany Joy & Baby Maria Rose Are Christmas Shopping Pals

Bethany Joy Lenz and 21-month old, Maria Rose 

Motherhood looks incredible on Bethany Joy Lenz as she goes Christmas shopping at The Grove in West Hollywood, California on Friday, December 14. Bearing her daughter of 21 months in her arms, these are the first photos we've seen of Joy and baby Maria Rose since their earlier appearance at Citrus Lane Launch Party.

And not to be forgotten, is Joy's actor-friend, Wes Ramsey, best known for his starring role in Latter Days and his guest stint on Charmed. Without having heard much about him prior to these candids, it's easy to tell Mr. Ramsey is pretty cozy with the mom and daughter pair.

Check out more pictures of the trio on their holiday shopping date:

[FULL SET HERE]

Source: www.celebritybabyscoop.com |FIRST GLIMPSE OF BETHANY JOY LENZ'S DAUGHTER

News Potpourri: Joy's Response to Newton, CT Tragedy, Instagram Photos, & Everly Breakup

27 wooden stands in a yard down the
 street from the Sandy Hook School

Joy Sends Prayers to Newtown Connecticut Victims

In response to the shooting tragedy that took the lives of 20 schoolchildren and 6 adults in the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut - Joy took time to tweet the following message:

"Haven't known what to say since turning on the news late this morning. My heart breaks for these parents in CT. Please pray for continued protection over the hearts of the surviving children, and for comfort and justice for victims' families." [TWITTER | BETHANY JOY LENZ]

In light of the holidays, please remember to keep the victims, families and all of those affected by this devastation in your thoughts.

Instagram Goodies

Joy's posted a slew of new photos on Instagram since I've last updated. Here are some of my personal favorites including two photos of Joy posing with actress Kelly Overton and former One Tree Hill costar, Tyler Hilton.

Everly Breakup Confirmed

Last month via twitter, Joy confirmed the rumors that Everly had indeed broken up. After receiving some negative feedback after plainly stating "no" to a fan's question regarding whether the duo was still intact - Joy did some needed damage control and released the the following statement:

I'm so grateful for your support with Everly over the years. Please continue to enjoy our music and pass along old CDs! Life changes and things weren't working anymore so I won't be involved with any new music as Everly, but I loved being able to share with you all that season of my life through music. You guys are amazing for supporting me in that venture. Onward! :) xo [WHOSAY | BETHANY JOY LENZ]

Truthfully, I never did understand Everly. Although I wish both ladies success- this is one 'venture' I wasn't upset to see end. As Joy said, onward. Nothing but good thoughts for the future.

News Update: Bethany Joy Lenz In London’s East End

Earlier this year, Zooey Magazine had the pleasure of catching up with the always chic and fabulous, Bethany Joy Lenz in London's East End. The reason for the second encounter, you ask? Well, according to the mag, "[Joy] exudes this very warm light when she walks in a room – she’s simply someone you want to know, understand, and befriend." So it makes sense why they'd seek her out for another addition of their "JUST ANOTHER DAY" segment.

Check out these fun little photos of Joy shopping and playing dress-up at The Vintage Emporium and Beyond Retro courtesy of Emily-Jane Robinson HERE.

If that weren't enough and you're looking for more proof as to how magnetic Joy is in front of a camera, watch her London adventure in action below:

And last but not least, for a limited time only (now until January 1st), Zooey Magazine is giving away Bethany Joy Lenz posters in each new subscription order as a sweet little gift for their readers. Make sure to use code: JOY in your order.

Get your hands on these before it's too late!

To subscribe to Zooey Magazine click the following link: ZOOEY MAGAZINE | SUBSCRIPTIONS.

News Update: Bethany Joy Lenz Steps Out to Support Uganda Project's 'Witness Uganda'

Hollywood comes out for the Witness Uganda event to help educate kids in Uganda

BY: MERIAM BOUARROUJ

Brooke Anderson, Bethany Joy Lenz, Abigail Spencer and Katee Sackhoff attend
the 3rd Annual Witness Uganda Concert in Los Angeles, California

Bethany Joy Lenz poses with
 'Witness Uganda' producer,
Griffin Matthews

Sometimes amidst a glamorous, star-studded charity event in Hollywood, one can almost forget the purpose of the night; the actual cause. That definitely wasn't the case at the Uganda Project's, 'Witness Uganda' fund-raising event Thursday night. While the charity's celebrity supporters came out and shined, it was the true purpose for the evening that held the spotlight.

Held at the Siren Orange studio in West Hollywood, 'Witness Uganda', the world's first Documentary-musical, was performed by Uganda Project founder Griffin Matthews and Matt Gould. The musical told the inspiring story of the Uganda Project's work of educating children and how it came to be.

The non-profit uses events, art, social media and public forums to further their movement in helping to positively shape the futures of Uganda's youth.

Abigail Spencer, The Insider's Brooke Anderson, Sophia Bush, Josh Pence, Bethany Joy Lenz, Daphne Zuniga and fashion designer Heidi Merrick all came out to show their support. The event raised over $35,000-making it the biggest night in Uganda Project history.

[CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE HERE]

To help The Uganda Project educate children, you can visit www.ugandaproject.com.

Source: Examiner.com | HOLLYWOOD COMES OUT FOR THE WITNESS UGANDA EVENT TO HELP EDUCATE KIDS IN UGANDA

News Update: Joy Rocks the House at Annual 'Rock the Schools Concert'

On November 3rd, BTF Concerts hosted the 2nd annual Rock the Schools Concert at the Gramercy Theatre in New York City. With power outages in most of New York City as a result of Superstorm Sandy, Bethany Joy Lenz still flew out from Los Angeles knowing hundreds of eager fans waited to see her perform. And despite the destruction left in Sandy's wake, the concert went on without a hitch.

Joy performed a mixture of old and new tracks, including an impromptu duet with Brooklyn native, Michael Grubbs of the band Wakey!Wakey!. What made the concert that much more special, was the support in the crowd from former One Tree Hill costars James Lafferty and Robert Buckley. And if that weren't enough, concertgoers had the opportunity to purchase Joy's third studio album, Then Slowly Grows which has now become available for purchase online [CHECK IT OUT HERE].

BTF Concerts and Rock the Schools Founder, Alaina Bendi stated, “the generosity, understanding and patience from the artists, agents, managers and publicists that helped make this happen was just beyond heartwarming. The emails and tweets we got from excited fans saying that it was the greatest night of their lives to meet and/or see their favorite artist was completely overwhelming and worth all of the sweat and tears put into producing the event. I think that in this situation, it proves even more how much music can make an impact when an event like this can bring people together to support a cause that can positively affect the lives of others.”

Although I bought a VIP pass to see Joy perform, I wasn't able to attend the concert and report on it firsthand. Nevertheless, as a victim of Hurricane Sandy it was truly heartwarming to hear that BTF Concerts decided to donate a portion of the funds from the concert to the Hurricane Relief Fund.

The show was sponsored by Live Nation and Yelp! With partners, Vita Coco, Dream Water, Honest Tea and Baked by Melissa.

News Update: Joy Delivers Hope to Mattel Children's Hospital

Joy got into the holiday spirit early this year by spreading joy to the brave children fighting cancer at Mattel Children’s Hospital (UCLA) in October.

In support of NEGU (Never Ever Give Up)- a pediatric cancer foundation inspired by 12 year old Jessie Rees, Joy helped to spread love stuffed in JoyJars®. Each JoyJars® acts as a reminder of hope, joy and love to the youth fighting cancer everyday. After Joy's day of spending time with the children, NEGU shared this heartwarming note from one of the Child Life Specialists:

“I’d like you to know that Jose was playing with the jar all afternoon until he finally went to surgery. It couldn’t have come at a better time as he was going stir crazy – he has been on total bed rest for 3 days so you can imagine how hard that is for a 9 year old. One of our teens whom wasn’t feeling up to a visit just opened one of the JoyJars we dropped off, and as he emptied the jar looking at each item he stated excitedly, “I can keep this? Really!” And finally, Vivian was completely in awe of Joy, her visit and the Jar distracted her from her fears and pain. Please express our gratitude to Bethany Joy who brought her own personal jar of joy and kindness. She was wonderful with the children. We are so appreciative of community friends who share our passion in giving kids a chance to play and have a normal experience. And we will be happy to spread Jessie’s inspiration to Never Ever Give Up!”

Thank you Joy for reminding us of the impact of thoughtfulness and generosity.

Also check out some of the highlights from the TeamNEGU All-Star Special Connections, which features Joy.

Visit NEGU's Official Website to find ways you can help spread the joy.