House Blend

Martha Stewart's Cooking School Enhanced e-Books

2012-01-29T19:34:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart's Cooking School can be in session any time you have the time with these great new enhanched e-books, available through iTunes for an iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone.

Martha Stewart's Cooking School is divided into six 'lessons' from stocks and soups to desserts.

To learn more about Martha Stewart's Cooking School culinary master class e-books, log into the iTunes store.

The Best of Martha Stewart Living: Organizing

2012-01-29T19:13:00.000-05:00

The latest "Bookazine" from Martha Stewart Living is on the newsstands and it's all about organizing.

This glossy, instructional guide offers the homemaker over 200 excellent ideas on keeping their home neat, tidy, and well organized.

This "Best of" bookazine covers nearly every space in the house; entryways, kitchens, bedrooms, closets, bathrooms, kid's rooms, utility rooms, and home office. Each section features some of the best ideas from past issues of Martha Stewart Living magazine, and helpful how-to for some of the organizing projects.

As an added bonus, each section contains "get the look" hints, with product recommendations to recreate the organizing tip in your own home. While many of the "get the look" suggestions feature Martha Stewart products - it also suggests numerous other product recommendations. (The Container Store seems to be a favorite place!) It's an excellent resource for readers. Each section ends with several "good things" as well, with simple, 'why didn't I think of that?' hints to make organizing easier.

I have read and re-read this bookazine time and time again. There is so much inspiration within the pages, it's hard to put it down!

While some may squawk at the 9.95 cover price, I think these "very best of.." bookazines are a steal and so valuable. I hope Martha Stewart Living will keep them coming! I'd love to see one on gardening this spring!

Martha Stewart Home Office is Here!

2012-01-16T20:45:00.002-05:00

I stopped at one of our local Staples stores tonight and much to my delight, the display of Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery was up and stocked! I snapped a few pictures (click to enlarge):

Labels, and binders and more, oh my!

A lot of different labels. there are very cool chalkboard labels.. and chalk. (sold separately)

Journals and binders galore!

Spiral notebooks for recipes, ideas, or secret love letters

Dividers, sheet protectors and pockets

Create your own planner. Everything you need in one place!

Cool dry-erase large labels and boards

The stack and fit boxes/desktop organization is very cool

These pockets for storage and filing have SO many uses!

Window Shopping - Sort of...

2012-01-09T14:50:00.000-05:00

I was browsing through a few websites the other day and ran across a few interesting and beautiful items. I love window shopping... on line and in person!

This butterfly centerpiece was something that caught my eye. I think it would look beautiful on a table set for a lovely spring brunch. I love the mix of greenery (albeit silk.. not real). Available at Grandin Road.

There is also a matching butterfly wreath.

Now, I'm not sure I would ever buy or use these... but some creative soul could put these to an interesting use... cabbage leaf placemats. Available at Grandin Road.

Perhaps cabbage is the in thing for 2012. Here is a cabbage swag for your front door. Available at Grandin Road.

I LOVE this tapered pedestal cake stand from the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's. I purchased one of these! (who could resist?) Available at Macy's.

Another spring time inspired piece of table decor from Grandin Road. A moss table runner. I saw this and immediately thought about an Easter table, or using it on a sideboard during Easter. How would you use this?

The new Martha Stewart Collection song bird china is beautiful. It immediately reminded me of my friend Elaine.

I DO NOT need another piece of dishware, but these are from the new Skylands Blue collection that is part of the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's. Tempting... very tempting.

This Victorian platter was interesting and it caught my eye.. Available at Grandin Road, this is something I could see my friend Andrew owning.. or perhaps Josh and Brent.

I'm a sucker for a good kitchen tool and I think this new hand beater/mixer from the Martha Stewart Collection may be the next addition. I can only think it would be easier to use this than to hand whisk egg whites!

From the good folks at Williams Sonoma, these delightful "hugs and kisses" smores for Valentine's Day would be oh so cute to give to that special someone. I wonder how hard it would be to make these... hmmmm...

Things and Good Things

2012-01-07T07:08:00.002-05:00

For those of us that follow Martha Stewart closely, it was an interesting news week of ‘things’ and ‘good things.’

The Hallmark Channel announced this week that the Martha Stewart Show will end its run after this, the 6th season. The show will continue in production through spring, with repeat episodes through the summer months.

Citing high production costs and less than expected ratings, Hallmark made the decision to end the show. There was a hint that ‘something’ was stirring when MSLO President and COO, Lisa Gersh mentioned during a recent UBS presentation, that the company was looking to make television more profitable by moving production in-house and not renewing their expensive lease on the Chelsea studio. Another hint was the noticeable absence of a Christmas holiday special this year.
Hallmark and MSLO have both indicated they will continue to work together to find new television opportunities for Martha and other personalities within the brand.

My Take:

While it would be easy to “Chicken Little” the cancellation news and think the sky was falling around Martha, this could actually be an excellent opportunity for MSLO to get television right (again). The live audience, celebrity guest format was never my favorite and by many accounts from fans and followers, it wasn’t their favorite either. This is an opportunity for MSLO to reconsider a return to the more instructional format of the previous “Martha Stewart Living” television show. As a viewer, I would like to see the show move to Bedford.

My favorite episodes from “Living” were those filmed at Turkey Hill. Return to the edited, smooth, instructional format and instead of celebrities promoting their new film or book, and feature the talent within MSLO to build out future brands. The Bedford location can be filled with Martha products to continue to promote the merchandising division. I think about what Martha did to Jadeite… after having a set filled with it, collectors went crazy (me being one of them). It wasn’t a blatant promotion; it was just there – and people want to mimic Martha’s style.

I would also suggest that Martha become less food-centric. While cooking demos may be easy – they are expensive. This is an opportunity for MSLO to fill a gap that is being left behind by television giant HGTV. Over 40 hours of programming on HGTV is now devoted to “house hunting” and real estate. This is a grand opportunity for MSLO to showcase decorating, gardening, crafts and all aspects of homekeeping. There is no need to drop food all together; but find a better balance of information.

We’ll have to wait and see how television plays out.

Also announced this week was the change in the Martha Stewart Living brand of paint at The Home Depot. In a statement from The Home Depot, they announced that they would stop carrying the Martha Stewart Living brand of paint – but the palette of colors would now be available using the Glidden paint bases. This change is due to lower than expected consumer demand.

My Take:

So, is this a big deal? Not really. Glidden has made great strides in the competitive paint business. In recent consumer studies, Glidden ranked well with consumers in overall performance as compared to other midrange priced brands. I do hope that The Home Depot will not lose sight of the appeal of the palette, keeping it prominently displayed

I’ve used Martha Stewart Living paint and I like Martha Stewart Living paint. Because I tend to be a very “brand loyal” consumer, I hate to see the brand disappear. However, the paint bases for both Glidden and Martha Stewart Living paint are produced by the same company, so I don’t expect to see a huge difference.

I do caution The Home Depot to NOT be too hasty in their future decisions. The introduction of the Martha Stewart Living brand came at a point where the economy had tanked. While we are experiencing a very slow recovery, I think it’s unreasonable to expect consumers to immediately change their shopping habits. To gain a greater market share of female shoppers into Home Depot stores, there must be selection and the stores need to be an appealing place to shop. I understand the ‘warehouse’ feel of a Home Depot store, but I’ve never been impressed with their merchandising. If they want and expect the Martha Stewart Living brand to fly off the shelves, then they need to merchandise it in such a way that it will.

My friend Andrew, on his fabulous blog Martha Moments, recently posted photos of the “new” Turkey Hill in Westport, CT. The new owners of the property completely renovated the house and pretty much wiped out any look/feel of the Turkey Hill we once knew and loved.

My Take:

Okay... for all practical purposes it’s a house and property that is owned by someone and they are free to do with it what they choose. To those of us that have followed Martha through the years, Turkey Hill holds a special place in our hearts – since it all began at Turkey Hill.

Andrew and I always dreamed that one day, we would take Turkey Hill and turn it into a National Martha Museum (I need SOMEPLACE to put all this Martha stuff I have!), complete with staff in crisp J Crew khaki’s, crisp white button down shirts, neatly pressed aprons (complete with logo), and garden clogs. We used to laugh about staff even wearing small circle logo earrings to complete their uniform. So much for a Turkey Hill museum. I guess we could always try for Lily Pond…

I always loved Turkey Hill. Readers and viewers got to know Turkey Hill pretty well. I’ll miss the traditional, Federal style home.

The Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery product line debuted on the Staples website and will be rolling out in stores throughout the month.

My Take:

Oh, happy day! (See previous post) I love the line, I love the colors, I love the design. THIS is a good thing indeed!

Just as we are starting our new year, the February issue of Martha Stewart Living arrived in my mailbox.

My Take:

We have another hit from editor-in-chief Pilar Guzman. I have loved every issue of the magazine since Ms. Guzman has taken the helm. I love how the magazine is going back to Living basics. It reminds me month after month of what I call “classic” Martha content. I can’t sing the praises of Pilar Guzman loud enough.

A special full sized Organizing issue is due to hit the newsstands on January 30^th. This is the second “very best of Martha Stewart Living” special issue (the 2011 Holiday issue was the first) devoted to one of the core content areas of MSLO.

My Take:

The last time MSLO tackled the subject of organizing was in a digest-sized special issue in 2005.

I’m always looking for organizing ideas – and revisiting some of the very best ideas from Martha Stewart Living will be a welcome way to spend the cold, winter month of February. Who wants to take bets that this issue will be sponsored by Avery and Staples? Timing is perfect with the rollout of the Home Office line.

Whew!

Martha Stewart Home Office

2012-01-01T20:11:00.002-05:00

Just in time for the new year, and the inevitable resolution to be more organized in 2012, the Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery line is now available in select Staples stores and on the Staples website. The full roll out of the line is expected through the months of January and February.

From binders to tags and labels, the Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery line will help you keep your home office organized with style. This is a Martha Stewart merchandise line I've long been waiting for! Here's just a small example of what you'll find:

Binders, in two sizes (standard 1" capacity and small planner size binders) with a smooth finish or a textured Shagreen finish. Also included are planner pages, calendars, lined paper, divider tabs, labels, and more, so you can create an organized system for your home office.

It's almost tax time and what better way to get organized than with a variety of filing options. From filing boxes, and accordion files; to folders, tabs, and tags, you're sure to find options that fit your needs.

More of a journal keeper? The Martha Stewart Home Office line offers a variety of writing journals in two sizes. Optional tabs can be used to organize your journal.

Keep your desktop well organized with the entire line of Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery "Stack and Fit" boxes and desktop accessories. Each piece is designed to stack and fit together for a desk organization system that works for you.

Martha Stewart Home Office Stack and Fit letter trays and small boxes round out the desk accessories.

These are sticky notes that are sure to get your reminder noticed! I love the flourish design.

Larger storage boxes help keep you organized. The boxes are available in a variety of colors in the Shagreen textured finish. The labels and label holders are sold separately.

I found this high quality, excellently designed line to be reasonably priced. The entire Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery line is available on the Staples website. To see the entire line, click HERE.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T21:22:00.000-05:00

Wishing you a Happy, Healthy, Joyful, and Peaceful New Year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T16:22:00.000-05:00

I said a Christmas prayer for you
Because the season's near
I didn't ask for riches
But for gifts so much more dear.

I asked for joyful gatherings
With your family all around
And for carols to inspire you
With their old familiar sound.

I asked for quiet moments
In your heart on Christmas morn
For a special time to celebrate
The Savior who was born.

I asked for friends to send their best
That you might know they care
I asked for peace and love and hope
And I know God heard my prayer.

The Scent of Christmas

2011-12-15T03:51:00.000-05:00

During the holidays we are taken in by the scent of a fresh cut Christmas tree. There are many candles, room sprays, and oils that try to mimic the scent, but nothing replaces the real thing. Unfortunately, 'real' Christmas trees aren't always the best choice in some homes. Here's an excellent alternative: Evergreen boiling blocks.

Next time to pass your local Christmas tree lot, stop and ask for a few of the end cut pieces. With every tree purchase, the tree merchant will typically give the trunk of the tree a fresh cut. These end cut pieces are loaded with natural oils.

Place 1-3 cut pieces (depending on size) into a pan of simmering hot water. Within minutes, the room will begin to fill with the scent of a fresh cut tree.

You can also use these end cut pieces in other ways - drill a small hole at one end of the piece and loop a piece of twine through the hole. If you have forced air heat, you can secure the piece inside of your floor heat vent. As the warm air passes over the block of wood, the oils will be released.

This is a great 'green' way to fill your home with the scent of the holidays and best of all, it's free!

Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade

2011-12-05T05:03:00.000-05:00

Sunday afternoon, we attended the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade, in beautiful downtown Rochester, MI. This was the 60th Christmas Parade to make its way down Main Street.

It was our first time attending the parade in person. We usually watch it on television - but this year we decided to see it for ourselves up close and personal. Here are a few photos from the parade:

The crowds were growing by 1pm - waiting for the 2pm parade kick off

A color guard kicks off the parade

It's official! We have a parade!

There were several marching bands. I love the sound of a marching band playing Christmas songs!

The Michigan Leader Dogs made their appearance. Such cute pooches!

These good folks are the 'Scrubs' from a local hospital. They do a well choreographed routine with their wheelchairs.

Dancers, singers, and more made their stop in front of the television cameras.

The temperatures were much warmer than normal, so we had no snow. It didn't stop this happy snow person from prancing down Main Street

The theme of the parade this year was six decades of Christmas. These guys represented the hot toys in the 80s.. Pac Man and He-Man.

My dear friend Erin Nicole was in charge of the "Prize Patrol" during the WXYZ TV coverage of the event. She gave away GREAT prizes!

This huge Nutcracker was having a hard time staying balanced as he strolled down Main Street. It was actually quite funny to watch!

There's a 'tea party' organization in Rochester (not of political affiliation) that teaches little girls the social graces of being proper. They were dressed in their formal wear to welcome in the season.

Channel 7, WXYZ-TV, the nations 11th largest news station, has covered the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade for many, many years.

Alicia Smith, anchor of the morning news, showed off her dancing talent, performing in a number with the Rochester Ballroom dancers.

This little girl was a big fan of Alicia. She was wanting to meet her so we made sure she had her wish come true. She was adorable and just awe struck to meet Alicia in person.

Not a great picture. but Santa arrived on is big float, along with Mrs. Clause.

The same little girl who wanted to meet Alicia, also wanted to meet Dave Rexroth, our Channel 7 Chief Meteorologist. Dave is always warm and welcoming to fans of all ages.

The best part of any parade, is when Santa arrives! Santa has made his official arrival in Rochester during the Christmas Parade for the last 60 years!

Light Up the Season

2011-11-29T04:51:00.000-05:00

We recently attended a tree lighting event in downtown Detroit to kick off the holiday season.

The 60-foot tree Norway Spruce was put into place earlier in the month and decorated with over 3 miles of lights and adorned with huge decorations. The tree is located at the Campus Martius Park, in the heart of the city and stands to welcome the holiday season and visitors to Detroit.

The entire downtown was filled with people as Santa and Mayor Dave Bing flipped the switch, and the tree came alive in beautiful color.

2011-11-26T06:30:00.000-05:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! It's time to deck the halls, be jolly, and spread holiday cheer!
It's time to decorate the tree, bake the Christmas cookies, make wreaths, and string the lights.

Here's to a wonderful holiday season!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T05:08:00.000-05:00

Today marks the day when we pause to reflect and celebrate all we are thankful for. It's a day of feasting and sharing our bounty with those we love. It's a day to recognize and express gratitude.

When I take that pause to reflect on what I'm thankful for, I find myself most thankful for those people that are in my life and share the blessings of friendship.

While many reflect on their lives and will at some point say, "I'm so lucky..." I've learned that 'luck' has nothing to do with it. I firmly believe that God brings people into our lives (and sometimes removes them) for a reason. We always grow, we always learn, and when we open ourselves, we become more self aware through the blessings of friendship.

To all my friends and family, I'm thankful for you. I'm blessed that you're in my life.

Wishing all a warm, and Happy Thanksgiving.

Make it a Magical Holiday

2011-11-09T20:29:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I got rather excited when I received the notification on my iPad that the December issue of Martha Stewart Living was available for download. The December issue is always one of my favorites and signals that I can legitimately start thinking about the holidays!

The iPad edition is sporting two covers - "Make it a Magical Holiday" and "A Joyful One Too!." I'm making the assumption that the print edition will carry the same two covers.

Inside, the contents feel almost nostalgic to me, with a look and feel that reminds me of the classic December issues of years gone by; what I refer to as "Classic Martha." As I paged through the contents on my iPad, I was delighted again and again with each swipe to the next page. From selecting the perfect Christmas tree, to a galaxy of stars holiday theme, there is something for everyone in this issue.

The December issue of Martha Stewart Living hits newsstands on Monday, November 14.

As much as I enjoy my iPad edition of the magazine - I'm looking forward to sitting down with my print version. It's a ritual I always enjoy. I'm counting the days until I decorate!
-----------------------------
Note: The magazine cover photos above were taken from my iPhone, shooting the screen of my iPad. The color quality was difficult to maintain.

"Lets Have a Parade!"

2011-11-05T04:58:00.002-04:00

America’s favorite holiday tradition, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, will celebrate its 85th anniversary on Thursday, November 24, 2011 with new giant character helium balloons, new floats, and of course, the one-and-only Santa Claus. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become the benchmark for pageantry and the official kick-off celebration to the holiday season.

Before the event kicks-off, the ribbon must be cut and the iconic words, “Let’s Have a Parade” must be shouted, as has been the tradition since the very first parade in 1924. This year, executive producer of the parade Amy Kule will be joined by kids from Tuesday’s Children, a family service organization dedicated to those impacted by the events of September 11th. The ribbon-cutting is meant to signify both a moment of remembrance and serve as an uplifting tribute the lives lost on that fateful day.

The 85th Anniversary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will feature 15 giant character balloons; 44 novelty/ornament balloons, ballonicles and balloonheads; 27 floats; 1,600 cheerleaders, dancers and performance group members; 800 clowns; 11 marching bands; a host of celebrity performers, and the one-and-only Santa Claus.

Since its first national broadcast in 1948, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been the nation’s star attraction. One of the country’s most viewed events, millions of families tune-in from coast to coast to watch the telecast.

The parade will step off this year at 77th Street and Central Park West. The procession will travel down to Columbus Circle, turn onto Central Park South, before making a right turn to march down 7th Avenue to 42nd Street. The parade will then turn east towards 6th avenue where it will march down the Avenue of the Americas. At 34th Street, the parade will make its final turn west marching in front of the world’s largest department store, Macy’s Herald Square. The festivities will kick-off at 9:00 AM sharp!

A Brief Parade History

The parade in 1924 was called "Macy's Christmas Parade" although it took place on Thanksgiving Day. It was later renamed the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Live animals including camels, goats, elephants and donkeys were a part of the parade that inaugural year. The original parade route started at 145th Street and Convent Avenue and traveled 5.5 miles to 34th Street and Herald Square.

In the first Macy's parade, horses pulled the elaborately decorated floats through the streets of New York. In 1925 and 1926, bears, lions and tigers were added to the live animals used in the parade. The practice was discontinued because some animals scared children along the parade route. In 1927, Macy's replaced the live animals in the parade with its now signature giant helium balloons created by famed puppeteer and Macy's designer Tony Sarg. The first balloons included Felix the Cat, The Dragon, The Elephant, and the Toy Soldier.

In 1928, Macy's began the practice of releasing the giant balloons at the end of the parade. Equipped with return address labels, in 1929 Macy's began offering prizes for the return of the giant balloons. In 1931, Clarence Chamberlian, an aviator flying above New York City caught the pig balloon in mid-air in order to the claim the $25 reward money. The practice of releasing balloons was discontinued in 1933.

The 1933 edition of the parade was the first-ever recorded for newsreels and subsequently shown in theaters around the world. This was also the first time Santa Claus led the parade instead of ending it. From 1934 to present day, Santa Claus has taken his honored place at the end of the parade.

The parade was canceled for three consecutive years, 1942-1944 due to World War II. At the start of the war, Macy's donated the balloons (that were made of rubber at the time) to the government's rubber scrap heap in a ceremony held at New York City Hall.

In 1947, the holiday classic, "Miracle on 34th Street" brought the parade's magic to the big screen. The success of the movie led NBC to begin telecasting the grand spectacle nationwide. NBC has been the primary broadcast network of the parade since.

Due to a helium shortage in 1958, Macy's inflated balloons with air and hoisted them on trucks with cranes for the journey down Broadway.

In the 1980's, smaller 'novelty' balloons were introduced, including Macy's stars and the 30 foot triple-scoop ice cream cone. "Falloons" were also introduced at this time. A combination of float and cold air balloon, Falloons highlight the creative genius of the Macy's Parade Studio located in Hoboken, New Jersey.

The 1990's saw the parade balloons adding new characters from the Internet, video games and contemporary cartoons. These new balloons keep the parade current and relevant to the younger, video savvy spectators.

In its 85-year history, more than 350,000 Macy's employees have participated in the parade. More than 50,000 clowns have delighted millions of children along the parade route. The one-and-only Santa Claus has never missed the annual parade event, which ushers in the holiday season.

____________________________
Photos courtesy of Macy's, Inc.

The Best of Martha Stewart Living: Holiday Handbook

2011-10-30T19:06:00.001-04:00

If there's one thing that traditionally signals the start of the holiday season, it's when the special holiday issue from Martha Stewart Living hits the newsstands. Yesterday, my friend Elaine emailed and told me she found the issue at Costco. Today, I found it at Target. The official newsstand date is Tuesday, November 1st.

This year, the holiday issue is a little different than in years past. The introductory letter on page one describes the publication as a 'bookazine' which is fitting, given the high gloss sturdy cover and higher quality paper for the pages. This issue, titled, "The Best of Martha Stewart Living Holiday Handbook" brands itself as a collector's edition, and I have to agree. Anyone who enjoys the Martha Stewart way of Living will want to add this to their stack of "keepable" magazines (sorry.. 'bookazines').

As the title indicates, this is a "best of" issue, with some of the holiday best from the last 20 years of Martha Stewart Living magazine. From holiday spirits (in terms of cocktails) to keep your guests merry, to classic Martha decorating ideas for the home, trees, and more, this issue is a fine holiday resource and truly is a handbook of how-to inspiration.

MSLO has another special issue in the works; the 20th Anniversary special issue of Martha Stewart Living. While not much has been said about the issue, it is due by the end of the year. I would anticipate it to be available for the holidays (a nice stocking stuffer for the Martha-ite in your life).

Beekman Book Signing to Benefit Wisconsin Church

2011-10-29T05:45:00.001-04:00

Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge will be heading to Wisconsin November 19 and 20 to attend a special dinner in their honor, and sign copies of their popular new cookbook, “The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook.”

The dinner and book signing events will help support community outreach programs and the operations budget of Saint Boniface Episcopal Church in the city of Mequon, where Dave and Jackie Purcell (the parents of Josh) have been members for over a decade.

Parish Rector, Father Kenny Miller, met Josh and Brent for the first time last December.“ We immediately had an entrepreneurial connection, “ said Fr. Kenny. “Much of Josh and Brent’s business model, and who they are as people, translates well to how we in the church try to reach out to people in the communities.” Fr. Kenny found the two season run of “The Fabulous Beekman Boys” impacted him as a person and as a priest. “If you genuinely try to share your story or in the church’s case, God’s story, with the people you cross paths with and you are authentic in your care and love for those around you, you by an unconscious choice, share love, God’s love and draw others closer to you and to God.”

Father Kenny hopes the events will raise awareness about Saint Boniface. “it is my hope that with God’s grace and their [Josh and Brent]help, more people will discover the great secret of Mequon: Saint Boniface Episcopal Church. We are a welcoming, open community that welcomes all of God’s children, just as you are.”

“All are welcome, all have a place, all have a name.” Wonderful words for the LGBT people everywhere who often feel a spiritual disconnect with a church community because of ‘who they are.’

Josh, an Episcopalian, has attended St Boniface in the past and is looking forward to returning. “Saint Boniface is a welcoming environment to all persons, of all faiths and beliefs, and has built a very vibrant community,” Kilmer-Purcell says. “They perform valuable community services, and Brent and I are thrilled to help them raise funds in any way that we’re able.”

Brent, Fr. Kenny Miller and Josh

Event Details:

Saturday, November 19, 2011, 7:00 PM:

Space at the $100 a plate dinner is by reservation only, with every plate also receiving a signed copy of the “Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook” and a complimentary package of the original Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Soap. There will also be three silent auctions of an array of Beekman 1802 products, some of which are exclusive only to the Beekman 1802 Mercantile, located in Sharon Springs. This event is open to parishioners and the public. Space is limited and reservations must be made in advance. Please contact the Saint Boniface Church office Monday thru Thursday, 9 am – 2 pm to make your reservation. 262-242-2994 The dinner event will be held at the church. Copies of the best-selling book, “The Bucolic Plague” by Josh Kilmer Purcell will also be available for sale and signing.

Sunday, November 20, 2011 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM:

Following the 10:00 Christ the King Sunday Service, Josh and Brent will sign copies of the “Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook” in the Narthex from 11:30 – noon. This time is reserved for parishioners only. From 12 noon to 2 PM, the book signing will be open to the public. Several groups of Beekman 1802 products will also be on display and will be offered as raffle prizes. Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event.

While David and I are unable to attend this specific event, we are planning a visit soon to see Jackie and Dave as well as attend services at Saint Boniface. We are both excited to meet Father Kenny and experience for ourselves the “all are welcome” spirit. We hope you will do the same.

“All are welcome.” Words of hope. Words of love.
__________________________________________________
For more information on Saint Boniface Episcopal Church, click HERE to visit the website

Martha Stewart Then and Now - Entertaining

2011-10-25T19:00:00.000-04:00

In 1982, Martha Stewart became a household name with her first book, "Entertaining." Today, Martha makes her mark once again with the publication of her newest book, "Martha's Entertaining, a year of Celebrations."

For those that love 'classic' Martha - this book is for you. THIS is the Martha Stewart we grew to appreciate all those years ago.

Martha's Entertaining is not a rewrite of the original Entertaining book; rather, it's an updated look at entertaining with classic, breathtaking elegance. Martha opens her homes for her readers as she shares a very intimate and personal look at entertaining throughout the year.

Beautifully written and beautifully photographed, this book is sure to be the new classic standard.

I was pleased to hear from my friends at Barnes and Noble - they sold almost all their inventory in just a few hours. This book is sure to be on it's way to the best seller list!

Steve Jobs

2011-10-05T20:50:00.000-04:00

A genius. A great man. A visionary.

Rest in Peace.

Steve Jobs

1955-2011

Building Walls

2011-10-02T20:36:00.001-04:00

Saturday, October 1st, David and I participated in our first volunteer adventure with Habitat for Humanity - Detroit. The event, coordinated by our ABC affiliate in Detroit, WXYZ - Channel 7 and Habitat was called the Build up.

In January, Channel 7 launched an incredible program called "Detroit 2020." This program is designed to UNIFY the community for the common good,INSPIRE the community to serve in their own way to help Detroit make a comeback, and ACT - encouraging the citizens of Detroit and the surrounding region to get involved in making positive change for the city. This multi-year program looks at where we've been, where we currently are, and at all the possibilities for the future. Anything is possible if we all make "Unify, Inspire, Act" our own personal creed.

Channel 7 made a call to action to the community to volunteer a portion of their Saturday to help build walls for two houses that will soon be built for deserving families in Detroit. They took that call to action to Twitter and Facebook as well. Channel 7 was a ground breaker in the utilization of social media to interact with viewers using the Twitter hashtags #backchannel and #EarlyRisers.

The response was overwhelming. The #backchannel, #EarlyRisers, and the community at large came forth in large numbers to participate in the event. 125 volunteers lifted their hammers and did their share to make a difference.

When David and I first heard of the Build up I knew that I wanted to do something more than give of my time.. I wanted our company, which specializes in logo-wear, promotional items, and event planning to play a part. I sat down at my computer and started to create a logo for the event.

The logo, found at the top of this blog post, symbolizes that a single home, for deserving family can help lift the entire community. The logo was accepted by Habitat for Humanity and Channel 7. We then worked with our partners at the Embroidery Shoppe in Westland, MI to donate tee shirts to all the volunteers who registered and worked that day. What a thrill it was to see so many people in their t shirts!

In our business of logo-wear and promotional items - it's all about building team spirit and giving something back to those that give of themselves. The shirts were a small token of thanks for an incredible team of people from all walks of life, in and around the city of Detroit.

Here are several photos from the event:

The crowd gathered early... at 7:30 a.m. It was a blustery, wet, cold day!

A proud moment for me was seeing the large banner hanging in the warehouse, with the Buildup logo on display.

One of our morning anchors, Alicia Smith gathered a group to provide some direction for the day. This build up was her brain child to bring the Twitter family together to ACT together for the common good of the city.

Assignments were given and the work started!

Walls were being built and stored for use in the next two Habitat for Humanity home builds. The gentleman in the grey t shirt in the photo above was tireless in his work on Saturday. He was a super volunteer!

Teamwork was key.. and in this case, steel-toed boots were also a sure bet!

David and I were loading these 13 foot wall headers into a large semi and being filmed for a story and an upcoming commercial.

Do these jeans make my butt look big? :-)

When walls were raised and transported outdoors.. there was such an incredible feeling of accomplishment.

A true highlight for me was meeting some of my Twitter friends that I talked to every single morning. We finally had the chance to meet face to face. Left to Right - Todd, Michael, Me, Ken, and Dan. Amazing guys that I look forward to waking up with every weekday morning. We call ourselves #TeamAmigos and we truly are.

The #TeamAmigos took a photo with our two lead news anchors, Stephen Clark and Alicia Smith. They really know how to rally the troops! David joined us for this photo as well.

I can't even begin to explain how good it felt to participate in this event. Knowing that the work we did will help a family be safe, give them a 'hand up' in these tough economic times, and better their future meant the world to be. You can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to serve.

Understandably, we get caught up in in our daily lives and think we do not have time to volunteer for a good cause. Find the time to give. If even an hour - your time makes a difference.

Another Cookbook For My Collection

2011-09-29T19:46:00.002-04:00

This holiday season, Macy's team of celebrated chefs are sharing their favorite recipes in "The Macy's Culinary Council Thanksgiving & Holiday Cookbook." Filled with pages of delicious
photographs and entertaining tips, the cookbook contains recipes from
each of the 13 Macy's Culinary Council chefs, including Cat Cora, Todd
English, Emeril Lagasse and Wolfgang Puck. In celebration of the 85th
anniversary of Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade(R), the cookbook
also includes a commemorative overview with special behind-the-scenes
stories and photos of America's favorite Thanksgiving event.

"'The Macy's Culinary Council Thanksgiving & Holiday Cookbook' is a unique tribute to the holiday season from the Macy's family," said Amy Kule, Macy's group vice president of National Events and Partnership Marketing. "Like Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, delicious food is a hallmark of this special American holiday. What better way to share our 85th anniversary than with stories and photos from our parade's colorful history and festive recipes from our Culinary Council chefs."

Available for $24.95 at select Macy's stores and macys.com this October, the beautifully composed cookbook contains over 80 recipes, as well as entertaining and cooking tips from the 13 Macy's Culinary Council chefs who include Rick Bayless, Michelle Bernstein, Cat Cora, Tom Douglas, Todd English, Marc Forgione, Emeril Lagasse, Marcus Samuelsson, Tim Scott, Nancy Silverton, Ming Tsai, Wolfgang Puck and Takashi Yagihashi.

From Marc Forgione's new classic Thanksgiving menu and a Hanukkah dinner with Michelle Bernstein, to a New Year's Eve party by Takashi Yagihashi, the cookbook is overflowing with holiday dishes, festive drinks and irresistible desserts.

"The Macy's Culinary Council Thanksgiving & Holiday Cookbook" contains not only Thanksgiving and holiday recipes from the renowned chefs of the Macy's Culinary Council, but also an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since 1924, the parade has been the nation's kickoff to the holiday season, now entertaining the more than 3.5 million people lining the streets of New York City and another 50 million television viewers. In honor of the 85th anniversary of the event, the Macy's parade team is sharing its recipe for the spectacle that dazzles and delights America each Thanksgiving. Through special sections such as a photo timeline highlighting milestone moments in the parade's history, and an introduction to the 8,000 volunteers who make the parade possible, the cookbook offers an unprecedented look at the beloved holiday event.

Martha Stewart Out of the Naughty Chair

2011-09-26T15:41:00.000-04:00

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia today announced today that Martha Stewart, Founder of her namesake company has been elected to rejoin the Board of Directors.

Martha was banned from serving as a director of any public company following the 2006 settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In 2004, Martha was convicted of obstruction of justice following an ill-timed sale of Imclone stock. The SEC settlement prevented Martha from sitting on the board of her own or any other public company for a five year period. MSLO did announce a short time ago the anticipated return of the Founder (and major stockholder of the company) to a board position sometime in the third quarter following the expiration of the SEC ban.

In the company press release, Martha said, "I am very excited to rejoin the Board, and I look forward to working with the management of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia and the members of the Board as the company develops and grows our exceptional businesses for today's consumers and those of tomorrow."

Most agree, that Martha continued to have a major influence in the day to day operations of the company, from the SEC naughty chair. The conclusion of this ban now puts all of the "rediculousness" behind her and behind MSLO.

HGTV Magazine

2011-09-25T18:01:00.000-04:00

There is a lot of "buzz" about the latest expansion of the HGTV brand - HGTV Magazine, set to debut on newsstands October 4th.

Last night, HGTV aired a one hour special on the making of the magazine (set to re-air several times - check your local HGTV listings) and provided a glimpse into the pages of the premiere issue which looks to be chocked full of helpful hints and tips for the home and garden.

Is this a good time to launch a new shelter magazine given the soft advertising market? HGTV and the publishing powerhouse Hearst Corporation are hopeful that is IS the right time.

Hearst, in cooperation with Scripps Networks (who owns HGTV, Food Network, Cooking Channel, Travel Channel, and GAC) launched the Food Network Magazine a couple of years ago with a recipe for success: integrating the popular hosts of the Food Network shows into the magazine. That recipe pushed Food Network Magazine to the top - as the best selling magazine in the food category. Hearst and Scripps are banking on the same recipe working for HGTV.

In the last year, HGTV has launched several new product lines centered around the home and garden brand; Now, you can find paint with Sherwin Williams, flooring with Shaw, bedding available at Bed Bath and Beyond, and in early 2012, home lighting. In another recent announcement, HGTV entered into a strategic partnership with Bassett for a full line of HGTV-Home Furniture.

You can bet, as the expanded HGTV lines are introduced, on air talent will be using the products in their shows (it only makes sense). The buying public loves to recreate images from magazines and television, so it seems as though it's a success no-brainer.

What do you think? Will the HGTV brand expansion be successful? Are you curious about the magazine? Is the public tired of "specialty brand" product lines? I'd love to know what you think... Feel free to leave a comment.

Autumn Decorating Favorites From Pottery Barn

2011-09-25T07:28:00.000-04:00

Tis the season to move from 'light and breezy' summer decor, to warm and comforting decor for autumn.

On a recent shopping trip to Pottery Barn, I was having "inspiration overload" with all the wonderful products in store and on line. Earthy and elegant, the wide selection of autumnal decor invites you into the season of bounty and comfort.

Rich earth tones, bright autumn colors, and timeless classics like mercury glass and white-ware combine to create an beautiful space you'll never want to leave!

I've selected just a few of my favorites from the wide selection of items available at Pottery Barn. To see the complete collection go to the "Home for the Holidays" section of the website.

Nothing is as classic as mercury glass. These antique mercury glass pumpkins add shimmer to any table setting or display.

This faux leaf garland is so realistic your guests will think you made it yourself. I love how it was used as a table runner.

The matching faux leaf wreath is equally as stunning. Note: This should be used in a protected area if used outdoors!

This Tom Turkey is huge! Beautiful on a sideboard arrangement or as the focal point of a buffet for the holidays, you can't go wrong with this majestic bird!

Pottery Barn has a variety of vase fillers - from these acorns to crab apples, and many other choices. I was looking for more faux cranberries - but was taken by these beautiful acorns!

After hours of preparation for Thanksgiving, who doesn't want to proudly display their perfectly cooked turkey? This platter is a beautiful way to do just that. This piece is sure to be timeless classic.

Acorns are symbols of autumn.. and these acorn salt/pepper shakers are beautiful additions to any table.

For a more formal look and feel on a Harvest bounty table, try using these delightful pumpkin place card holders! They measure just over 2" tall.

The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook

2011-09-22T20:51:00.001-04:00

As someone who enjoys cooking, I clip, download, scan, jot, and scribble new recipes quite often. I also have this addiction for cookbooks – old and new. Today, I finished reading through the newest addition to my cookbook collection – “The Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook” by Brent Ridge, Josh Kilmer-Purcell, and Sandy Gluck. Let me stop here for just a moment and tell you: GET THIS COOKBOOK! Sorry.. I didn’t mean to shout.

While reading through the book, it dawned on me that this will always be a work in progress. Each recipe has a note section for the home cook to add their own twist or variation to make the recipe their own. One recipe could become several. How fun is that? (sorry… my inner Ina Garten just emerged..)

The book is divided into seasons. Since the Beekman 1802 philosophy encourages “seasonal living,” the seasonal organization of recipes makes sense and makes it easy for the home cook to shop from their favorite farm market or from their own garden, depending on the time of year. Working with Sandy Gluck, host of Martha Stewart Living Radio’s “Everyday Food” and former editor of the magazine of the same name, every recipe is clearly written, with easily found ingredients, and designed for the beginner or the seasoned cook to be successful.

Many of the recipes include beautiful photographs taken by the incredible Paulette Tavormina. I can’t even begin to count the number of photographs that I would love to have enlarged and framed, to hang in my kitchen or dining room. Truly, works of art.

Throughout the book, readers will find helpful cooking or prep hints, and information about many of the heirloom varieties of vegetables grown at the Beekman. The home cook will not only have wonderful recipes to add to their repertoire, but they’ll learn a few things along the way.

As described in the introduction, it is the hope of Brent and Josh that the cookbook will find its way into the hands of future generations. A special section of the book holds blank recipe cards that can be stored in well designed pocket pages, to truly make the “Beekman 1802 Heirloom Cookbook” a one stop resource for family recipes and recipes that are sure to become family favorites. I absolutely love this idea.

I may have to buy another copy. I’ll want to keep one copy clean and pristine. I can see the other copy being my one stop for all the jotted and scribbled recipes I’ll find along my way in life and those that have been passed down from the generations before me.

One thing I know for sure – Joanna Beekman would have loved this treasure chest of recipes and information. I can see her sitting in the Beekman kitchen, enjoying a quiet moment and writing her own variation to a recipe and storing it between the pages, or writing in a family recipe for safe keeping.

I’ll be doing the same thing.

Martha Teaming with Avery Dennison and Staples for New Home Office Line

2011-09-22T15:49:00.000-04:00

I haven't discussed Martha Stewart "news" in quite some time on this blog (actually, I haven't posted much at all on the blog as of late!) but this is something I've been waiting for.. Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery.

In a meeting today with over 1,600 Staples store managers, Stewart, along with executives from Avery Dennison and Staples office supply stores, made the announcement of the new line which will be available early in 2012.

The initial roll out will consist of 300 sku's of merchandise including storage, and labeling and organizational technology (that sounds interesting...). Stewart shared with the store managers that they could expect a lot of "color" in the line, with "many, many, more products" in the planning stage.

The three companies are banking that they can capture a 2010 estimated 21 billion dollars worth of home organization revenue with this new line. Stewart indicated that this line will do for the home office what Martha Stewart Crafts did for the crafter. Are we about to see a revolution in home office / home organizational supplies?

As an office supply junkie (I'm sure there is a twelve step program for me..) I was very excited to learn of this new line. I can feel a home office makeover coming.

To read the full press release, click HERE.

Vintage Recipe Pamphlets

2011-07-23T05:25:00.000-04:00

When paging through the August issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine, I was excited to see the article on collecting vintage baking pamphlets.

I've always loved these little books of retro goodness. Food suppliers would produce these booklets featuring the use of their specific product(s). It was a genius marketing tool and continues to be today.

Over the years, a few vintage baking pamphlets have made their way into my collection of cookbooks. I love the retro look of the 50's and 60's (ahh, my youth!) and when a particular booklet would catch my eye, I have not been able to resist adding it to my small, but wonderful collection. Knowing of my "retro-love," my friends have also contributed to my stash.

I love the iconic images, the typefaces used, and have actually found a wonderful recipe or two! Take a few minutes to page through the article. It's a great look back at time spent in the American kitchen!

Pantry Must-Have's

2011-07-10T06:30:00.001-04:00

The shelves in a home pantry can be filled with many different things: canned goods, baking needs, cookie sheets, serving pieces, cookbooks and likely a box or two of jell-o.

While I try to be a highly organized person (I think I sometimes spend more time planning to be organized than actually "being" organized..), looking through the pantry can be a real adventure; Finding a set of cookie cutters you totally forgot about, discovering a jar of Aunt Millie's homemade pickle relish (that you graciously said thank you for - but really hate..), or finding an open package of fondant that is now rock hard and unusable.

Since I enjoy baking (more in the fall/winter than summer), there are a few items that I have discovered in the last year or two that I need to restock in our pantry. These items are must-haves and you'll be certain to restock them regularly.

This may shock some - since I regularly do advocate baking from scratch - but these brownie mixes from the guys at "Baked" in New York City can't be beat for fast, last minute dessert needs that truly do taste like homemade. Add a few ingredients and you'll have guests "oooing and ahhhing" thinking you spent hours in the kitchen.

Who doesn't love ice cream? These great ice cream starters from Willams-Sonoma are a fast and easy way to make a batch of creamy goodness. Add the starter with some milk and cream, toss it into your ice cream maker and voila! Ice cream!

Vanilla... lots of good vanilla is definitely a must-have in the pantry. I keep a variety of vanilla in the pantry- from extract, to vanilla paste and whole vanilla beans and vanilla sugar. Nearly every recipe calls for vanilla, so it's best to keep a good supply on hand. But, make it the very best vanilla you can afford.

Another baking essential for me is Espresso Powder. Whether your making a coffee flavored dessert, or want to enhance the flavor of chocolate - Espresso powder makes it easy.

Kick up the brightness of your fruit based desserts with a little shot of Lemon extract. Much like vanilla, you want to only use the very best and a little goes a very long way.

Once you've made your brownies, and topped them with homemade ice cream - you're going to need one of the most delicious caramel sauces as the finishing touch. The Cajeta goat milk caramel sauce from the good guys at Beekman 1802 is the perfect topping for any dessert.

To purchase the above mentioned products, visit Williams-Sonoma or Beekman 1802.

Keep your pantry stocked... you never know when company will drop in.

The Shady Side of the Garden

2011-06-12T20:00:00.000-04:00

The shade garden is nearing its peak of perfection, since we've had some extremely warm weather this last week. The Hostas are absolutely beautiful right now and the ferns are in full glory!

I love the "mix and match" way the different varieties of Hostas work together

An abandoned garden path is starting to get overrun with plants

Just on the other side of the shade garden, where there is full sun, red tea roses are blooming. I have no clue where the rose bush came from.. I don't recall ever planting it!

These ferns multiply and multiply and multiply. They look great until about the end of July... then they start fading out.

Another view of the shade garden

Many years ago, my sister bought me this hanging copper double pot from Smith and Hawken. I love how it has developed its weathered look over the years.

One of the decorative tea-light holders near the patio

Within the next couple of weeks, the lilies should start blooming. Hydrangea's won't be far behind! More to come!

Gardening for a Lifetime

2011-06-04T05:39:00.000-04:00

I have a whole book case of gardening books but when I received this book a couple of weeks ago, it quickly became one of my favorites.

"Gardening for a Lifetime," written by Sydney Eddison, is a small book of brilliant wisdom for the gardener who is faced with maintaining their beloved passion while growing older and in all honesty, slowing down.

Throughout the pages of this book she offers her suggestions on how to make gardening less of a 'chore' and more a thing of enjoyment as we grow older.

Ms. Eddison makes recommendations for less time consuming plants, how lists can assist the gardener in accomplishing the many tasks that need to be addressed, and offers counsel on how to accept imperfection in the garden (yikes!).

For myself, I know I can't spend the 6-8 hours a day on a weekend in my garden like I used to. "Gardening for a Lifetime" shows me I don't have to... I can have more time for the other things I love in life while still living my passion as a gardener.

Roses in the Garden

2011-06-04T05:16:00.000-04:00

It's been a wacky spring season with cooler than normal temperatures, and then a heat wave that reminded me of August. The roses apparently loved the weather because they are quite sturdy, lush, and starting to bloom.

While roses are not always the easiest to grow and maintain (I think black spot takes up permanent residence in my garden), they are so elegant and beautiful in the garden.

Here are a few of the roses I have in my garden:

New Products at the Beekman 1802 Mercantile

2011-06-01T21:45:00.001-04:00

There's nothing like swooping in to the Beekman 1802 Mercantile and loading up on a few new products and some old favorites. Here are a few of the new items you'll find at the Mercantile. I'm introducing my "Shop or Drop" recommendations and ratings on these products:

GARDEN CRUUK

This handy garden tool is a must have for the home gardener. The Garden Cruuk is actually three tools in one. The heel of the tool can be used to weed any raised bed or flower garden quickly and easily by catching the weed just below the soil surface. The notched end of the Cruuk can be used for digging small holes or digging out long tap roots from the most stubborn of weeds. The point and blade can be used to break up or dig through compacted soil.

The Beekman 1802 Garden Cruuk is hand forged and beveled with a maple handle that has been hand turned by one of the B 1802 craftsmen. It is comfortable in your hand and will certainly last many years.

Availability: Online or at the store
Shop or Drop: SHOP
Score: 8 out of 10

The only thing that stops this product from being the perfect 10 is the price. At $57, it seems priced out of the average gardeners budget. While it is fully expected to last for many gardening seasons, the initial investment cost may be prohibitive to some.

STICK OF BUTTER

The Beekman 1802 Stick of Butter is a classic example of innovative product design. Imagine an all natural chapstick type product on a larger scale that works in conjunction with your body heat to soothe dry skin or lips without the greasy feel many moisturizers can leave. I instantly fell in love with this product and used it almost immediately after purchase.

The Stick of Butter is available in four seasonal scents (I purchased spring and summer), and well worth the $15 price.

Availability: Online or at the store
Shop or Drop SHOP
Score 10 out of 10

ROSEMARY CREAMED HONEY

I love to cook, but I'm not sure I would have ever thought to put rosemary and honey together as a condiment. I'm glad Brent did!

The Beekman 1802 Rosemary Creamed Honey is nothing short of AMAZING. There is the perfect balance of a Rosemary infusion with some of the most delicious honey you'll ever taste. This new condiment is perfect with fruit, cheese, or on your favorite bread or cracker. The creamed honey becomes a savory treat when combined with Beekman Blaak cheese or the cheese of your choice. Truly, the possibilities are endless with this product. I'm going to perfect a Rosemary Creamed Honey Shortbread cookie.. I can just imagine the two together perfectly!

Priced at $10 a jar, this is worth every red cent!

Availability: Online or at the store
Shop or Drop SHOP
Score: 10 out of 10

BEEKMAN 1802 GOAT TOPIARY

This is just a cute idea. In front of the Beekman 1802 Mercantile there are large urns with big goat topiary forms. They have taken the whimsical idea and made it smaller scale for the home.

The metal planter is embossed with the Beekman 1802 logo and filled with succulents. There are no drainage holes in the planter itself (they could be drilled if so desired..) so succulents work great for this type of container. This isn't your Mamma's Chia-Pet.

Availability:        Store only
Shop or Drop:   SHOP (if you like goat whimsy)
Score:               9 out of 10

I gave this item a score of 9 because without some sort of modification with drainage holes, customers are limited to what will grow successfully in the container. I would like to see this product sold as a "kit" so customers could add the plants of their choice.

To see the entire collection of Beekman 1802 products, visit their website or visit the Beekman 1802 Mercantile, located in Sharon Springs, New York.

Spring Vacation At The Beekman Farm

2011-06-01T20:17:00.000-04:00

For the third year, we have spent the days surrounding Memorial Day at the wonderful Beekman Farm, located in Sharon Springs, New York.

This year, our visit coincided with the Garden Festival held in the village. The festival was wonderfully successful again this year as people from all around the country came to celebrate the beginning of the gardening and planting season.

The Beekman was open for tours with about 300 people walking the property that became familiar to them through the Planet Green series, "The Fabulous Beekman Boys."

While David played "security" at the entrance to the driveway, I was stationed in the garden to answer questions and encourage visitors to help out with garden chores if they had the time (there's always a weed to be pulled). In turn, those that gardened received a pair of Beekman 1802 garden gloves as a keepsake of their moment in the heirloom garden (or helping me plant a few thousand sunflowers!).

Josh was the official tour guide for each group that attended, while Farmer John and Jason provided their expertise for tours of the barn, where visitors could meet the goats, the sheep, and of course Polkaspot.

Following the tours, I took a stroll around the grounds to capture a few images...

I never get tired of seeing the incredible Beekman mansion. It's so regal standing proud in the countryside.

Bubby, the chief barn cat was taking a few minutes for a cat nap in the flower garden. Well deserved!

This peony bloomed the day of our arrival. I photographed it the following morning after a thunderstorm.

As the tour dates grew closer, more and more peonies started to open. I can't help but wonder if Joanna Beekman filled the beautiful mansion with fresh cut peonies...

Big and beautiful Alium dotted throughout the flower garden.

If you ever wondered 'why' this place is so special, just look at the view..

A view from the grand porch. The formal flower garden was coming along nicely!

The first Poppy was starting to unfold on Memorial Day.

The buds of the Poppies are so prehistoric looking!

A beautiful Bleeding Heart shares space with a large rock on the property.

A view of the farm from across the pond

Simple seating at the edge of the pond can only mean hours of meditation while gazing over the grounds.

Reflections

Another view from the far side of the pond.

The land seems to call you to relax and unwind

It's so peaceful.

The mountains paint a beautiful backdrop as you gaze out onto the property.

Goat love!

The 52-raised bed heirloom garden was nearly all planted. Josh spent Monday putting in tomatoes while I planted corn. The stone wall that surrounds the garden is now complete and it's stunning!

Goats, goats, goats! It's hard to get a clear picture... the young ones are always moving!

Polkaspot was giving me attitude for a good portion of the time we were there. At one point, she got a bit peeved with me and spit at me. Thankfully, she missed!

Farmer John has done an amazing job with the goats. They all are healthy and quite happy with their life at the Beekman.

Temperamental. Polkaspot gave me a quick smile. She can be so manipulative!

I don't know why, but this goat was standing on the ledge, eyes closed, and seemed to either be in a goat trance, or sleeping. Odd way to relax!

Finding My Voice

2011-04-24T10:51:00.000-04:00

Blogging has become less of a pleasure and more of a chore lately. This tells me it's time to find my real voice in the blogging world.

Historically, this blog has been a tool to communicate with fellow Martha-ites about product, magazine releases, news and info about MSLO. Sadly, my passion for being a 'voice' for the brand has dwindled. While I still enjoy elements of the brand (I can't imagine a month without Martha Stewart Living magazine), the passion I once felt for what I thought was a premiere company, has faded.

So.. I am in search for my true voice for this blog. In the future, it may be a little of this... a little of that... who knows.. But I'm taking time to figure it all out.

In Martha's words.. "I'll be back... I will be back..."

Martha Stewart's "Eggcellent" Easter

2011-04-14T20:31:00.000-04:00

In need of some ideas for Easter? Tune into the Hallmark Channel on Sunday, April 17 at 7pm (eastern) for Martha Stewart's Eggcellent Easter; an all new special from Martha Stewart Living.

Join Martha for eggcellent recipes, craft ideas, and decorating ideas to make this Easter one the entire family will remember.

To view a sneak peek of the special stop by the Hallmark Channel website.

Colors of May

2011-04-10T05:32:00.000-04:00

The May issue of Martha Stewart Living is beginning to arrive in subscriber mailboxes and it's a colorful issue indeed!

Do you like floral patterns? Flip to page 110 for "Rooms in Bloom" and learn six ways to use floral patterns throughout your home.

Living continues to share a year of celebrations with great ideas for beautiful baby showers. Beginning on page 118, you'll certainly be inspired if you're the one coordinating the party for a mom-to-be.

Donny Osmond used to tell us that it was called "puppy love" but the May issue makes it "Poppy Love" with multiple uses for beautiful poppies. How to grow, how to use as cut flowers, and how to decorate with clever poppy crafts... it's all you need to know about poppies. You'll find the beauty of poppies on page 126.

You can't help but be inspired with a beautiful visit to Northern California's flower growers. The flowers are gorgeous and you can almost smell them on the pages. You'll love reading about this visit starting on page 142.

The May issue is colorful for sure. Don't forget... each issue of Martha Stewart Living is now available for the iPad as well. Bring the magazine to life with great animations, videos and more!

Decorating Eggs for Easter? There's an App for That!

2011-03-30T04:59:00.000-04:00

Find great ideas by the dozen in this brand-new app with signature Martha Stewart style. This spring, go beyond the familiar and create extraordinary eggs. With the swipe of your finger, browse a gallery of 101 eggs, each one more charming than the last—and fun to make for both kids and adults. See one you want to make? Tap it to reveal detailed how-tos, complete with step-by-step photos or video.

Make eggs embellished with flowers, lace, or monograms. Eggs awash in swirls, speckles, or spots. Eggs that look like animals (including the Easter bunny!)—and many more. Sophisticated or cute, surprising or classic, all these eggs are easy and impressive. It’s everything you need to celebrate spring. So what are you waiting for? Time to get cracking!

The app includes:

— Egg Basics: Everything you need to know to get started. How to blow out eggs so you can save them year after year. How to dye the eggs in the prettiest hues, complete with our detailed formulas, and lots of tips for getting great results.

— Techniques and How-Tos: The eggs are divided into 20 techniques. Pick your favorites, or try them all. Every single egg is accompanied by easy-to-follow how-to instructions and photographs or videos.

— Sources: Most of the techniques call for simple supplies—if you don’t have them already, you can find them at the grocery store or craft store. But if you do need a special supply, we’ll tell you exactly where to find it.

— Fun functions: E-mail your favorite eggs to friends to say Happy Spring!

Hallmark Home Unveils 2011-2012 Slate of Programs

2011-03-23T21:01:00.001-04:00

Crown Media Networks, part of the television portfolio that includes Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel, today presented its cable television networks’ 2011-2012 slate of original programs, including the new Q4 lineup for the network’s successful Hallmark Channel Home lifestyle block. The second season of Hallmark Channel Home, Hallmark Channel’s entertaining and informative daily lifestyle programming block, will premiere in September. The block is headlined by the seventh season premiere of “The Martha Stewart Show,” the Emmy(R) Award-winning, daily series featuring a Who’s Who of innovators and top personalities and inspiring ways to live life to its fullest – from cooking, crafting and collecting to decorating, gardening and even pet care, no one does it better than Martha.

Also returning for its second season on Hallmark Channel is “Petkeeping with Marc Morrone.” A contemporary Dr. Doolittle, Morrone is Martha Stewart’s Go-to guy for all things pet related.

Joining Hallmark Channel Home is Emeril Lagasse in “Emeril’s Table,” a new daily cooking series featuring the celebrated chef and restaurateur with a table full of enthusiastic guests in each episode.

Martha follows up her popular and successful primetime holiday and interview “Martha Stewart Presents” specials with all-new Halloween and specials in primetime on Hallmark, celebrating the seasons as only this style and cultural maven can.

The following shows are produced by Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia in association with Hallmark Channel:

NEW SERIES:

“Emeril’s Table” Hallmark Channel Original Series World Premiere Premiere Date Q4 TBA

Emeril Lagasse kicks it up even more when “Emeril’s Table” joins Hallmark Channel Home beginning Q4. Emeril, who entertains people with his food expertise as well as his enthusiasm, says, “I am looking forward to bringing Hallmark Channel Home viewers a cooking program that will inspire them to create truly delicious menus for their family and friends.” “Emeril’s Table” is sure to be the hottest reservation in television. Emeril’s media empire, products and eating establishments are said to exceed more than $150 million in sales annually. The chef-proprietor of 12 restaurants around the country earning critical praise and top ratings, author of some 15 cookbooks, and food correspondent for ABC’s “Good Morning America,” Emeril is one of the most popular and successful chefs in world. 52 30-minute Episodes

RETURNING SERIES:

“The Martha Stewart Show” (Season 7 premiere) Hallmark Channel Original Series Premiere Date in October TBA

Martha Stewart is back for a seventh season of her mega-popular, Emmy Award-winning show and her second as anchor of the Hallmark Channel Home daily lifestyle programming block, after making Hallmark Channel her exclusive home a year ago. The new season will find Martha introducing fresh inspirations and will feature A-list celebrities, culinary icons and luminaries of the fashion world, both renowned and newly discovered – all before a live studio audience. A brand new assortment of theme shows will also be in the offing, focusing on all varieties of baking, crafting, gardening and decorating. In addition to chefs and fashion connoisseurs, those dropping by Martha’s place will include seasoned artisans designers, artists, authors, collectors and experts from all walks of life. 140 60-minute Episodes

“Petkeeping with Marc Morrone” (Season 2 premiere) Hallmark Channel Original Series Premiere Date in January TBA

Marc Morrone is a modern-day Dr. Doolittle who knows how to talk to the animals – and about them, too. He is Martha Stewart’s go-to guy in the world of four-legged and winged beasts, from dogs to cats, rabbits to ferrets, parrots to canaries, and he is bringing his wisdom back to Hallmark Channel in all half-hour episodes which reveal what viewers need to know about caring for their pets. Through dialogue, demonstrations and Marc’s personal and professional experience, he shares valuable tips and insights for enjoyable petkeeping. 20 30-minute Episodes

SPECIALS:

“Martha Stewart Presents: Halloween Special” Hallmark Channel Original Special World Premiere Premiere Date OctoberTBA

It will come as no surprise that no one does Halloween better than the Grande Dame of domesticity herself. In fact, this special is a virtual how-to guide for doing Halloween Night right. Martha shares tips on sensationally spook-tacular ways to decorate your home with the proper monster-fied motif, transforming pillowcases into trick-or-treat bags, making scary cupcakes, Halloween cocktails, great costume makeup, and much more. There are also likely to be a few surprise guests dropping by on their way home. Though technically it’s a night to celebrate the deceased, Halloween comes alive during this prime time hour with Martha. She creates more Halloween party ideas than you can shake a witch’s broom at. One word of warning: this celebration of all that screams and goes bump in the night is strictly BYOP (Bring Your Own Pumpkin)!

“Martha Stewart Presents: Christmas Special” Hallmark Channel Original Special World Premiere Premiere Date TBA

Martha Stewart’s Christmas program is the gold standard of holiday specials. Martha Stewart and holidays continue to be synonymous, since she remains the one whom more Americans turn to than any other for tips and tricks on how best to celebrate the season ofgiving. In Martha’s annual holiday extravaganza, she will be welcoming several friends we all know. We don’t yet know who those special guests will be, but last year, Martha opened her home to Claire Danes and Jennifer Garner. There will also be Christmas crafting galore in this Holiday Open House, along with unique holiday gift-giving and decorating ideas, recipes, discussion of handmade items, and some baking of traditional cookies and cakes. Viewers emerge from an hour with Martha and her friends with holiday inspiration aplenty. Pour yourself a glass of eggnog, sit back and enjoy.

A surprising absence from the lineup was "Mad Hungry" with Lucinda Scala Quinn and "Martha Bakes," the latest television production from MSLO. No official word if these two quality programs will return with the new lineup.

Label Art

2011-03-19T11:54:00.000-04:00

I've always enjoyed and appreciated good design in packaging. From soup cans to seed collections, a well designed label can serve as art in your home, office, or in your potting shed.

Last year, while visiting the Beekman 1802 store in Sharon Springs, New York, I purchased several of the heirloom seed collections. I was taken with the labels that Josh Kilmer-Purcell had created. They have a vintage look and feel while still being modern and fresh.

I knew that the seeds would be put to good use in the garden, but I also wanted to do something with the labels. They were too beautiful to just set aside or cut out and save in my garden planner. I decided to turn them into art.

I found a frame that would hold a mat cut with three 4x6 openings. The labels themselves were slightly smaller, so I added an additional mat backing, centering the labels in each of the cutouts.

Presto! Instant art!

There was a small space just outside of our project room and next to the shelves that hold my massive magazine collection. The piece fit perfectly.

Look around. Where might you find works of art?

To order your own set of heirloom seeds (and labels!) visit the Beekman1802 online store.

Fabulous Beekman Boys Season 1 DVD Update

2011-03-12T07:34:00.000-05:00

In a recent post about the Season 1 DVD release of "The Fabulous Beekman Boys," I indicated that the DVD set would be available in May. This information was based on availability through Amazon.com.

The DVD set is now available through the Discovery Store and is currently in stock. To order the set, click HERE. The set includes all 10 episodes from Season 1 as well as the holiday special and more all for just $19.95.

Have You Taken Your Temperature?

2011-03-09T19:22:00.001-05:00

The temperature of your garden soil is key to successful seed germination in your garden. As different types of seeds germinate at different temperatures, measuring the soil temperature can guide your vegetable planting schedule.

Bill Mansour, retired vegetable crops specialist for the Oregon State University Extension Service, recommends the following method for taking an accurate temperature reading of your garden soil.

Use a probe thermometer, available at garden supply stores.

Insert the thermometer to two inches into the soil for early season and small, seeded vegetables including arugula, fava beans, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, leeks, lettuce, many of the oriental greens, onions, parsnips, peas, radicchio, radishes, spinach, Swiss chard and turnips.

Insert the thermometer four inches for warm season vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, cucumbers, squash, corn and melons.

Take the temperature at the same time each day for several days in a row and average them out. The best time to take the temperature is mid-day. If you can't take the soil temperature each day, agricultural weather reports give out soil temperature information taken mid-day.

"You can have fun graphing the maximum, minimum and mean temperatures and get a feel for how soil temperatures fluctuate daily," said Mansour.

"Start thinking about planting cool season crops when soil temperature averages at least 40 degrees and warm season crops when the average is 50 degrees or more," he advised. "But remember, you also have to consider is the risk of killing frost after your seeds emerge."

Martha Stewart Living Announces New Editor for Flagship Magazine

2011-03-08T18:56:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. today announced that Pilar Guzmanhas been named Editor in Chief of the award-winning, monthly magazine Martha Stewart Living. Ms. Guzmanwas founding Editor In Chief of Cookie, a highly regarded, intelligent magazine for modern parents that ceased publication in late 2009. In addition to overseeing editorial for Martha Stewart Living, she will be responsible for the creation of monthly digitized editions of the magazine.

Prior to joining MSLO, Ms. Guzman co-founded Momfilter.com, a website devoted to modern parenthood. Before founding Cookie, which Advertising Age magazine named "Launch of the Year" in 2007, and serving as the magazine's editor in chief, she was senior editor at Real Simple and executive editor of One,an architecture and design magazine. Ms. Guzmanhas also been a contributor to a number of different publications, including The New York Times House & Home and Dining sections, I.D., Metropolis, Wallpaper, and Marie Claire, and was the design and architecture editor and columnist at City magazine. She launched her career in journalism writing a travel guide to Italy before working as a food critic and lifestyle writer for the New York Daily News.

Ms. Guzman will work closely with EVP Creative Director Eric Pike and will report to the Chief Creative and Editorial Director, Gael Towey. She will also collaborate with the company's digital team on Living's expression on the MarthaStewart.com website. In addition, Ms. Guzman will represent the magazine in appearances on the Emmy-winning daily TV series "The Martha Stewart Show" on Hallmark Channel.

"I have long been a fan of Martha Stewart and the iconic lifestyle brand that is Living. In its unparalleled rigor and creativity, Martha Stewart Living is an inspiration and I am excited to work with this amazingly talented team," said Ms. Guzman.

A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, Ms. Guzman is the author of Time for Dinner, a family dinner cookbook that was published last fall by Chronicle Books. In 2008, she was one of Crain's "Top 40 Under 40" and The New York Post included her on its list of "New York's 50 Most Powerful Women."

Fabulous Beekman Boys Season 1 DVD

2011-03-08T05:16:00.000-05:00

If you're a fan of "The Fabulous Beekman Boys" (and who isn't?), you will soon be able to relive every moment of the first season with a new DVD that will be available on May 31st.

The ground breaking series became an instant hit with viewers as they watched Brent and Josh live through their (first) year of sacrifice with nearly every struggle imaginable as they build their business, Beekman1802.com while maintaining their 10 year relationship.

The Season One DVD is now available for pre-order.

April Living

2011-03-07T19:33:00.002-05:00

The blue sky of spring is the inspiration behind the April issue of Martha Stewart Living - now arriving in subscribers mailboxes.

The issue is filled with wonderful blues (which happens to be my favorite color... next to Jadeite green). The cover alone caught my eye instantly and inspired me to consider blue and white as a theme for Easter this year. It turns out feeling blue is a happy thing. The shade that's always in style offers endless decorating possibilities. powdery or brilliant, neutral or intense, blue can open up just about every room in the house.

If you're looking for great Easter inspiration, the April issue delivers just what you need. A colorful, candy-filled egg hunt for kids doubles as a relaxed Easter brunch for the adults. No-mess egg decorations and a sunny lemon pastry are part of the good times.

Herbs. Take a fresh look at herbs. See how six basic hers stand out in 12 great recipes. you'll never wonder what to do with leftover basil again! Also.. a few hints and tips for growing your own - perfect how-to as we round the corner (in my neck of the woods) to gardening season.

Easter toys are highly collectible and a great article entitled "Rabbit Tales" takes you hopping along through a history of bunny toys, trinkets, and housewares. You may remember a few of these from your childhood!

One of my favorite articles in this issue is Martha's step-by-step guide to getting the grimiest of kitchen appliances sparkling again. Grab a sponge, and get the stove "Martha clean."

The April issue hits newsstands on March 14 and will also be available for the iPad on the same day.

April Everyday Food

2011-03-06T06:08:00.001-05:00

The month of March is just getting started, but the April issue of Everyday Food arrived in my mailbox yesterday filled with great recipes and ideas for spring.

Get ready to eat, with excellent recipes for three ingredient side dishes that can accompany your favorite main fare. The recipes are easy to prepare and equally as easy on the budget.

Keeping the food budget in line is something we all strive to do and a great section in this issue, “5 weeknight dinners, 5 ingredients, 5 dollars per person (or less)” is a great way to eat well, and keep your grocery bill manageable.

April means spring and Easter. Put the ham on hold this year with a great Easter menu of salmon with brown sugar and mustard glaze, salt and pepper rolls, asparagus and green beans with chili-orange oil, balsamic red onions, and a deliciously moist simple lemon cake for dessert. Sounds like a wonderfully light alternative to the traditional holiday feast.

Leftover bread? This issue of Everyday Food gives you great ideas on how to “use it up” to avoid waste.

Desserts couldn’t be easier with a section on gooey, chewy bar desserts. From chocolate to citrus, a variety of bar desserts are fast, fun, and easy to make.

For iPad owners, don’t forget that Everyday Food is now available for download, with great how-to videos, and all the excellent content you’ll find in the ‘hard copy’ of the magazine.

The Fabulous Beekman Boys Return for Season 2

2011-03-05T19:42:00.002-05:00

It won't be long, now! The Fabulous Beekman Boys, Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Brent Ridge will be model walking (well, at least Josh will...) back into your home on Tuesday, March 22nd at 10 p.m. on Planet Green.

It's another season of challenges, drama, good times, and our favorite llama, Polkaspot.

Check your local listings to find Planet Green through your cable or satellite service provider.

Martha Stewart's New Pies and Tarts

2011-03-05T04:55:00.000-05:00

New Pies and Tarts book set to release March 22

Filled with seasonal fruit, piled high with billowy meringue, or topped with buttery streusel, pies and tarts are comforting and foolproof. In Martha Stewart’s New Pies and Tarts, the editors of Martha Stewart Living include 150 recipes: Some are savory, some are sweet; some are simple enough for a weeknight, while others are fancy enough for special events. Throughout, readers will find plenty of fillings and crusts, basics, and techniques for creating flavors and textures for every taste—from down-home classics that come together easily with fresh berries and stone fruits to modern tarts layered with chocolate ganache or finished with a wine glaze. There are also individual hand pies, savory comforts like quiche and potpie, holiday-worthy desserts for nearly every occasion, and much more.

Chapters feature pies and tarts for everyone: Classic (Lattice-Top Blueberry Pie, Pumpkin Pie), Free-form (Apricot-Pistachio Tart, Apple Butter Hand Pies), Sleek (Caramelized Lemon Tart, Chocolate Mousse Tart with Hazelnuts), Dreamy (Frozen Chocolate–Peanut Butter Pie, Butterscotch Praline Cream Pie), Rustic (Cheddar-Crust Apple Pie, Blackberry Jam Tart), Layered (Rainbow Puff-Pastry Tarts, Chocolate Pear

Tart), Dainty (Roasted Fig Tartlets, Cranberry Meringue Mini Pies), Artful (Peach-Raspberry Slab Pie, Pumpkin and Ricotta Crostata), Holiday (Neapolitan Easter Pie, Gingerbread-Raspberry Snowflake Tart), and Savory (Leek and Olive Tart, Summer Squash Lattice Tart).

As is expected from Martha Stewart, this book is at once a feast for the eyes and the palate, as well as a practical teaching tool. Each dish is accompanied by a lush, four-color photograph. Throughout the book are simple instructions for decorative crusts and finishing techniques (latticework, cutouts, classic edgings). A complete Basics section of tools, pantry staples, and dough recipes (pâte brisée, cream cheese dough, press-in cookie crusts, puff pastry), plus plenty of tips and make-ahead tricks, help readers along the way. Whether making an effortless, free-form galette or the perfect latticework pie, bakers of all skill levels will look again and again to Martha Stewart’s New Pies and Tarts.

Vanessa Holden Leaves Martha Stewart Living

2011-03-04T16:48:00.000-05:00

West Elm, a member of the Williams-Sonoma, Inc. portfolio of brands, today announced that Vanessa Holden, editor-in-chief and creative director of Martha Stewart Living, will join the brand as senior vice president and creative director. Ms. Holden will oversee all facets of the home furnishing brand’s expression in the west elm catalog, on westelm.com, and in the brand’s store environments.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Vanessa join our team,” said Jim Brett, president of west elm. “Over the past year, we’ve worked carefully to enhance and diversify the west elm merchandise offering and our customers have responded positively. Vanessa is the author of our next logical chapter. She brings a wealth of experience in the art of storytelling through words and images that will make our catalog, our website and our stores a richer experience for our customers.”

“For me, west elm is the most exciting, vibrant lifestyle brand in the market right now,” said Vanessa Holden. “The opportunity to build out a compelling, rich and immersive brand experience for the west elm customer is incredibly exciting. I look forward to helping grow the brand in all dimensions.”

Boundless Beauty Now Available for Subscribers

2011-03-03T22:16:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart Living magazines first special digital issue originally created for the iPad is now available for FREE to subscribers for their computers.

Click HERE to gain access to this first spectacular digital special issue. Note: You must be a subscriber to one of the Martha Stewart Living family of magazines to gain access to the issue.

Finding Peace Margaret's Way

2011-02-28T19:16:00.000-05:00

When I found the small brown box on my doorstep, I instantly knew what was inside; “And I Shall have Some Peace There,” by Margaret Roach.

I have to admit, I’m a tough one when it comes to books. If a book doesn’t stir my interest within the first 50 pages, I am likely to set it down and not open it again. If a book doesn’t force me to slow down and read (instead of scan), it gets put on the shelf and used as a decorative element at a later date (stacks of books look lovely as a room accessory).

“And I Shall Have Some Peace There” not only was read page by page, it was savored from cover to cover.

I’ve followed along Margaret’s career for years. As a matter of fact, as garden editor for Martha Stewart Living, Margaret taught me much of what I know about gardening. Yes, it’s her fault that I have this passion for the garden and everything in it (except grubs… I have no passion for grubs.. They are pretty disgusting).

When Margaret left MSLO to take on her passion, I was bummed big time. When she emerged several months later with awaytogarden.com, I was elated. I was pleased to see that Margaret didn’t just fall out of sight – she reinvented herself (or unleashed?) and turned the garden blogging world on its head. I very quickly became a regular reader of the blog and the forums. I still take great pride in the fact that I asked a question in one of the forums that ended up being one of the most popular – “why do you garden?” A simple question with a zillion different responses.. but I digress.

“And I Shall Have Some Peace There” is Margaret’s story, told Margaret’s way, on how she experienced the internal struggle of wanting more out of her life while others told her she had it all; and making the bold move to kiss corporate America goodbye to create a world SHE wanted, with solitude, dirt under her fingernails, and a once stray cat named Jack.

The story that Margaret shares is a true gift to the reader. It’s an honest and revealing look into her life as she moves from the fast paced city life to a quieter existence, finding peace in a life of solitude. No, this isn’t a story about being alone; rather it’s a story of having the joy and happiness of solitude when, and as often as she wants/needs it. Margaret is hardly living a lonely life. She stays well ‘connected’ with her readers and followers through a web of technology and social media.

For those expecting some inside scoop or dirt on MSLO, you’ll be disappointed. In her true gracious style, Margaret does not dish dirt. Rather, you quickly feel the respect she has for Martha. Martha’s respect for Margaret is clearly shown with a blurb on the back cover. Class acts on both sides.

While some have said that Margaret’s writing style was hard to follow, I have a great appreciation for it. A thought process will be humming along in the book and suddenly, there is a sideline of thought found in parentheses. I appreciate it because I do the same thing (memos can be a real struggle for me.. no use of parentheses). The book is like a progressive conversation with Margaret, moving here and there in thought, but always in some way connected. Yes, there were moments when I would re-read something, but like any conversation, you sometimes have to seek clarification. I don’t see that as a bad thing.

Experiencing my own struggle with staying in the corporate life, this book spoke to me, often feeling like I was reading my own thoughts. I too have fears. I too hate snakes. I too have found myself under the kitchen table – not from a fear of lightening, but from a much stressed out day.

“And I Shall Have Some Peace There” is a must read for anyone who has experienced a significant change in their life, or is thinking of making one. Sometimes the quest of another provides some answers to our own questions. I grade this book a solid A.

Bake-a-long With Mike - Toasted Almond Scones

2011-02-21T22:14:00.002-05:00

Perhaps it’s all the British blood that runs through my veins… I love scones.

My friend Mike belongs to a baking/blogging group called “Tuesday’s With Dorie.” The group is baking their way through the wonderful book, “Baking.. from my home to yours” by Dorie Greenspan.

Each week, members of the group bake particular recipes from the book and share their creations on their blogs.

This week, the group baked a recipe selected by Mike, Toasted Almond Scones. When Mike asked me if I would virtually bake along with him, I couldn’t say no. Nor did I want to. I never turn down the opportunity to bake scones.

Scones are biscuit-like pastries or quick breads that are often rolled into round shapes and cut into quarters, then baked, sometimes on a griddle. Scones can be savory or sweet and are usually eaten for breakfast, but are also served with tea and in coffeehouses.

When baking these scones, the kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma. When I pulled them out of the oven, and had my first taste, it was heaven. I’ve made scones before, but these are definitely the best scones I’ve ever had the pleasure of making, baking, and eating!

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, these scones are best served with a nice slathering of melted butter, or homemade jam. Anyway you take them, you’ll love them.

Take a moment to visit Mike’s blog, and make sure you visit often. You’ll be inspired not only by his creations, but his photography is amazing. He could make sautéed cardboard look delicious!

Martha Stewart Living Paint Line Expands

2011-02-20T06:33:00.000-05:00

Creating a faux finish on the walls of your home has never been easier with the recent expansion of the Martha Stewart Living Paint line at The Home Depot.

Three different specialty paint/glazes help the home decorator to create beautiful textures that add depth and interest to any room.

Just as velvet nap changes appearance to the touch, the lightstrokes finish reflects light differently depending on the direction in which it's brushed on. As a result, you can manipulate the finish to create the illusion of depth,, while your wall remains completely smooth.

Potter's Clay provides a medium for creating a variety of surface textures, simply by dragging the wet finish with combs or brushes. Depending on the tool you use and the thickness of the finish application, you can create well-defined lines or a finish that's looser and softer.

Precious Metals (image not available) is a decorative sheen that captures the shimmering luster of silver, gold, and other precious metals. It's particularly beautiful combined with traditional finishes in patterns and stripes, or when added to the glazes used for Martha's favorite faux-finish technique like Faux Bois.

A decorative tool kit and a line of faux finish rollers, both by Martha Stewart Living are also available at The Home Depot.

Saturday Cinnamon Rolls

2011-02-20T05:41:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite breakfast treats is a delicious cinnamon roll. The combination of tender bread-like dough, cinnamon, sugar, and a sweet glaze has grabbed my attention since I was a child.

While I have grown accustomed to the store bought variety, I decided I would make my own. I was pleasantly surprised at just how easy it is to make these pinwheels of cinnamony goodness. I can't wait to have one with my coffee this morning.

For the Dough:

1 package of yeast
1/2 C warm (110-115 degrees) water
1/2C scalded milk
1/4C sugar
1/3 C unsalted butter (melted)
1tsp salt
1 egg
3 1/2 - 4C all-purpose flour

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and set aside. In a large bowl, mix milk, sugar, melted butter, salt and egg. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until smooth. Add yeast mixture. Mix in remaining flour until dough is easy to handle. Kneed dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-10 minutes. Place in a well-greased bowl, cover and let rise until doubled in size, usually 1-1 1/2 hours.

For the Filling:

1/2C melted butter, plus more for the pan
3/4C sugar, plus more for the pan
2 T cinnamon
3/4C raisins, walnuts, or pecans, (optional)

When doubled in size, punch down the dough. Roll out on a floured surface into a 15 by 9-inch rectangle. Spread melted butter all over the dough. Mix the sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over the buttered dough. If you wish to add raisins, walnuts, or pecans, sprinkle them over the sugar coated dough and lightly press into the dough.

Beginning at the 15inch side, roll dough in a log shape and pinch edges together to seal. Cut into 12-15 slices using a clean sharp knife.

Coat the bottom of a baking pan (I used a half sheet pan) with butter and sprinkle with sugar. Place cinnamon roll slices close together in the pan and let rise until dough is doubled, about 1 hour. Bake for 30 minutes in a 350 degree oven until lightly browned.

For the Glaze:

4T butter (melted)
2C powdered sugar
1tsp vanilla extract
3-4T hot water

To make the glaze, mix butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Add hot water 1 tablespoon at a time until the glaze reaches the desired consistency. Spread over the slightly cooled rolls.

And I Shall Have Some Peace There

2011-02-09T21:02:00.001-05:00

Margaret Roach asks a very simple question, "didn't you ever want to get up from your desk one day, and just walk away?"

It was this question that prompted the former Editorial Director of Martha Stewart Living to do her own soul searching, and make the bold decision to leave the 'city' behind for a more fulfilling life in rural upstate New York.

Margaret chronicles her quest for fulfillment in her new book that will be released on February 23rd, "And I Shall Have Some Peace There,"

In December of 2007, Margaret made the decision to leave MSLO to fulfill the craving for different rewards: "solitude, a return to the personal creativity of writing, and a closer connection to nature and my first passion, the garden I'd been making on weekends for 20 years."

Once she settled back into what had been a 'weekend home" for years, Margaret began AWayToGarden.com, named after her 1989 prize-winning book. The New York Times named it the best garden blog, and rightly so. From the very first day the site was 'live' to the world, it was obvious that Margaret was living her passion for gardening. Together with her blog readers, Margaret shared "real" gardening how-to (and woo-woo as she says..), and shared her many triumphs and (a few) failures, that every gardener experiences. AWayToGarden.com quickly grew from a handful of readers to thousands. (I'm pleased to say I was among the first handful!)

One of my favorite covers from Martha Stewart Living was shot in Margaret's garden in upstate New York.

I first became familiar with Margaret when she held the position of garden editor for Martha Stewart Living. It was then that I grew to appreciate her gardening philosophy and gained a lot of respect for her knowledge and wisdom. As Margaret's role changed to editor of Martha Stewart Living magazine, I was struck by her heart-felt monthly letters to readers. I especially recall the period during Martha's legal troubles . When it seemed as though there was a push to 'remove' Martha from the publication, Margaret always wove in Martha's importance to the company, the readers and viewers, and to all those that she inspired. One letter stands out in my mind, when the magazine underwent the masthead "makeover." The letter was about change. I've read that letter many times in that particular September issue, and I've always been left with the impression that Margaret, as editor, was not convinced that the changes being made were for the best. Margaret was my hero from that point forward.

In Margaret's garden. Notice the familiar pots from the cover of MSL?

In 2009, I had the pleasure of meeting Margaret and touring her beautiful gardens during an open garden tour in May. While there were many people to tend to and talk to, Margaret was so kind, and spent a few minutes with us talking about the gardens, conducting the tours, and Jack, the Demon Cat (her words.. not mine!) who adopted her following 9/11.

Since the release date of "And I Shall Have Some Peace There" was announced, I've had unending anticipation. As a matter of fact, I don't think I've ever anticipated a book release more. The idea of giving up what is 'safe' as a career to live out a passion (or two), is exactly where I'm at in my own life. I've sat down and asked myself all the questions about making such a transition, and often become riveted with fear to take the final leap into my own world. I'm anxious to read her experiences and about her thought process.

Margaret made a wonderful video that needs to be shared with the world. Please take a few minutes (a little over four, to be exact..) and watch this video. Once you watch, I have every confidence that you'll want to make yourself a good cup of tea, and curl up with this book as much as I want to.

For more information about "And I Shall Have Some Peace There" and prepare yourself for the gardening season ahead, visit her blog(s) at awaytogarden.com

Grow Your Own : The March Issue of Living

2011-02-08T05:21:00.000-05:00

I don't know about your area, but we are living with over a foot of snow on the ground and bitterly cold temperatures. With all the snow and cold, it seems like spring will never arrive (and it will take until July for all the snow pack to melt!). Never fear... spring is around the corner!

One sure sign of springs pending arrival is the special gardening issue of Martha Stewart Living. This March, Martha encourages you to "grow your own" with an issue chocked full of great hints, tips, and advice for the novice and most experienced gardeners.

The March issue is beginning to warm subscriber mailboxes and will be available on newsstands and for the iPad on Valentine's Day (what a wonderful gift that will be!). Take a look at some of the iPad videos from the issue HERE.

Cookie App Updated for Valentine's Day

2011-01-30T13:57:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart Living and Callaway Digital have released an update to the popular "Martha Stewart Makes Cookies" app for the iPad and iPhone.

The Valentine’s Day update includes 26 tasty new recipes, like trend-setting Glitter Ball Cookies, kid-friendly Heart Sandwich Cookies, and decadent Walnut Truffle Cookies, bringing the total recipe count to more than 90 delicious cookie recipes. The holiday-themed design includes a paper cut-out heart motif as well as doilies highlighting cookies perfect for Valentine’s Day baking. Limited-time holiday functionality will give users a surprise to be revealed on Valentine’s Day and the ability to send virtual cookies to their sweethearts. More creative cookie packaging ideas, including envelopes and boxes, with detailed instructions have also been added to give cookie gifts that special touch. Expanded search functionality makes it even easier to find the perfect cookie for any occasion.

The Martha Stewart Makes Cookies Valentine’s Day update is available immediately and is free for existing users. The Martha Stewart Makes Cookies app is available for $2.99 for a limited time (today through Valentine’s Day) from the Apple App Store on iPad or at the iTunes App Store. The iPhone version of the Valentine’s Day update will be available shortly from the Apple App Store at a special holiday price of $0.99.

Everyday Food Digital Index Updated

2011-01-29T21:52:00.000-05:00

Do you remember the recipe for baked macaroni and cheese from Everyday Food but can't remember what issue it's in? No worries... the updated digital index for Everyday Food is now available!

Subscribers to Everyday Food can now login and download their own copy of the great resource which now lists all the recipes from 2003-2010. (it's hard to believe the magazine has been available for 7 years now!)

To download your own copy click HERE. You will need to enter information just as it appears on your mailing label. You can also login using your account number and zip code.

Download and save your copy today!

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-01-26T19:28:00.001-05:00

It was a nice surprise to wake up this morning to discover that my friend, Elaine, from California Living had bestowed upon me the "Stylish Blogger Award." Thank you, Elaine!

Elaine's blog is a wonderful place I visit on a daily basis. She's one of the most thoughtful bloggers I know.. sharing her passions in life, her many adventures (she has the most interesting day-trips!), and is always, always an inspiration to me. I don't know how she does it, but she always finds the coolest blogs and 'things' that always appeal to me. I do hope you will check out her blog. It's well worth making frequent visits!

As part of my acceptance of this award requires me to do a couple things...

First, a big thank you again to Elaine for giving me this award. I love you dearly.

Second, I have to share 7 things about myself:

1. I have had a wonderful partner for nearly 15 years.
2. We have four cats, Martha, Riko, Cinnamon, Sirius
3. I'm a news junkie.
4. I love to learn new things.
5. Patience is not one of my greatest strengths
6. I fell in love with Upstate New York a couple years ago.
7. I love making my own jams and jellies

Lastly, it's my pleasure to recognize other blogs and bloggers and award them their own Stylish Blogger Award:

A Way to Garden

Martha Moments

Eddie Ross

Mad Hungry

Living Out West

Perfecting Pru

The Mixing Bowl

Home Design with Kevin Sharkey

Moments of Delight

While the preference is that I recognize 15 blogs, I don't follow 15! I'm always happy to recommend blogs I enjoy most!

I hope you'll visit the blogs I've listed above. I do on a regular basis and they are always and source of great inspiration!

Fudge Coffee Brownies

2011-01-23T09:38:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for an interesting twist on a brownie recipe, this is one to try; Fudge Coffee Brownies.

What gives this recipe the 'twist' is the addition of cinnamon. The combination of espresso powder and cinnamon creates an incredible depth of flavor to the chocolate.

Recipe:

2 sticks unsalted butter
5 ounces of unsweetened chocolate
2 T instant espresso powder
2 C sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
5 large eggs
1 C all-purpose flour
1 T cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
_______________________________

Preheat oven to 350 degrees with the rack in the middle. Butter and flour (or use a non-stick baking spray formulated for easy cake release) a 9x13 baking pan.

Melt butter and chocolate with espresso powder in a heavy saucepan over low heat. (alternative: melt together in a heat proof bowl over simmering water) Whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and cool to lukewarm.

Whisk in sugar and vanilla. Whisk in one egg at a time until the mixture is glossy and smooth.

Whisk together flour, cinnamon and salt. Slowly add to the melted chocolate/egg mixture.

Spread the batter into the pan and bake until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out with a few crumbs adhering, 25-30 minutes.

Cool completely before cutting. Makes 32 (2-inch) brownie squares.

These brownies cut very cleanly and would make an excellent 'treat' for your favorite Valentine this year!

Beekman 1802 Teaming With Williams-Sonoma

2011-01-23T06:17:00.000-05:00

The good folks at Beekman 1802 are teaming with Williams-Sonoma to get America growing with the Beekman Heirloom Vegetable Garden Seed Collection.

The collection consists of ten easy to grow heirloom vegetables grown in the beautiful gardens on the Beekman Farm. The seeds are in their purest form and have not been genetically modified in any way. All the seeds come from the D. Landreth Seed Company, the oldest seed company in the country. It is likely that William Beekman sold these same varieties of seeds in his Mercantile which was originally located across from the farm in Sharon Springs, NY. The seed collection retails for $19.95, a great value!

Beekman 1802 and Williams-Sonoma are looking to create the worlds largest community garden, with over 10,000 people growing the same varieties of vegetables in their own gardens this year. As part of the community, gardeners are encouraged to participate in the new Beekman Gardening Forum, where hints, tips, questions, and answers can be found for just about any gardening problem. To learn more about the worlds largest community garden and sign up to join the community forum, click here.

New to gardening? Not a problem! Sign up for a bi-weekly gardening check list from the Beekman so you can stay on track and discover just how easy and rewarding gardening can be. The checklists will begin in March, just as the weather begins to turn the corner. Sign up now by clicking here.

The new Beekman Heirloom Vegetable Garden Seed Collection can be purchased at your local Williams-Sonoma store or at their website. Click here to order your collection today!

Martha Bakes Premieres January 31

2011-01-19T16:02:00.001-05:00

The highly anticipated launch of “Martha Bakes,” a Hallmark Channel Original Series based on a lifetime of research and baking techniques perfected by Martha Stewart is just days away. In this new weekly program, the first ever to feature Martha demonstrating one specific culinary discipline, home bakers will get the tools they need to create the finest desserts and baked goods in their own kitchen. The 13-episode series for the “Hallmark Channel Home” block will premiere on Monday, January 31 at 11:00 a.m. and air each Monday at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT, 10C.

After years of experimenting, writing recipes and perfecting them, Martha edits the best of the best for this half-hour program dedicated to the coursework for Baking 101. What distinguishes the series from other baking-related shows is that each half-hour installment, covering themes from pound cake to pâte brisée, will begin with a recipe’s basic foundation then explore how the addition of certain ingredients or the use of a new technique will help to create not one, but multiple dishes. The thoughtfully edited collection of Martha’s personal favorites, from savories to sweets, demystifies everything from how to make the perfect, no-crack cheesecake to how to create the ultimate devil’s food cake.

Commenting on the new series, Martha Stewart said: “I am passionate about baking, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce this extensive and well thought out coursework to viewers at home. I have been asked to do this kind of program for years and felt the time was right to introduce it as part of our terrific block of programming on Hallmark Channel. Given all the culinary choices that consumers have access to in today’s marketplace, it is hard to know which recipes will produce the best results, so this show will certainly be an important resource and will deliver the best information that viewers can find anywhere.”

Bill Abbott, President and CEO, Hallmark Channels, added: “The launch of ‘Martha Bakes’ underscores that Hallmark Channel Home is a destination with a difference. We believe this series is a crucial ingredient to creating an entirely new lifestyle resource for our viewers – a place where they can get the kind of quality entertainment and information that isn’t available anywhere else on television.”

Episode descriptions are as follows:

SEASON PREMIERE
EPISODE 1: YELLOW CAKE
PREMIERES MONDAY, JANUARY 31 AT 11:00AM ET

Yellow cake might be thought of as the “everyman” of baked goods, but only because it’s so versatile; a great yellow cake like Martha’s is the foundation for many memorable desserts. In this show Martha bakes her father’s favorite birthday cake, one she often made for him, filled with orange curd and coated with a delectable chocolate frosting. She makes upside-down cakes with stone fruits, and strawberry cupcakes (baked with fresh strawberries) with strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream frosting. She also teaches how to create even cake layers, and the best way to frost a cake.

EPISODE 2: PATE BRISEE
PREMIERES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7 AT 11:00AM ET

Martha’s pâte brisée (also known as “shortcrust pastry”) is a must for homemade pie. Martha demonstrates how easy it is to make her pâte brisée perfectly every time: tender and flaky. Then she uses it in her Mile-High Apple Pie, a mountain of apples flavored with cinnamon and sugar. She wraps sweet poached pears in pastry and bakes them for a rustic, yet elegant dessert. She also uses pâte brisée in a savory tomato tart with roasted tomatoes, roasted garlic and Comté cheese.

EPISODE 3: CHEESECAKE
PREMIERES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14 AT 11:00AM ET

There’s nothing like good cheesecake, and there’s no cheesecake like Martha’s. She demonstrates how she makes creamy, no-crack cheesecake that comes out perfect every time. She makes classic New York cheesecake with a graham cracker crust; a rustic ricotta cheesecake with orange peel; and individual cheesecakes with plump Bing cherries.

EPISODE 4: POUNDCAKE
PREMIERES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21 AT 11:00AM ET

For the best buttery rich pound cake, look no further than Martha’s recipes. Her classic pound cakes rise to a beautiful golden-brown center, and they’re perfect for an easy dessert or even with breakfast. She creates a variation on the classic pound cake by adding Meyer lemon zest to the batter and topping it with a lemon glaze, and also makes a moist pound cake with cream cheese. Finally a recipe she learned while traveling through Asia: Semolina Cake, a unique twist on pound cake made with semolina, vanilla powder, almonds, and orange zest.

EPISODE 5: PUFF PASTRY
PREMIERES MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28 AT 11:00AM ET

Few things intimidate the home cook more than puff pastry. In this episode, Martha de-mystifies this delicacy and demonstrates how anyone can make it with a minimum of fuss. Martha then uses the pastry in some of her favorite recipes: Pithiviers (a glorious round pie filled with almond cream), butterfly-shaped palmiers, cheese straws, and Napoleons layered with pastry cream and fresh berries.

EPISODE 6: ANGEL FOOD
PREMIERES MONDAY, MARCH 7 AT 11:00AM ET

Light and airy, angel food is a cake known for its delicate and sweet flavors. Martha creates a classic version served with fresh raspberries, then gets more creative with a Coconut Cloud: angel food cake filled with Swiss meringue and coconut, and frosted with the same. Finally, miniature brown sugar angel food cakes that have a hint of molasses flavor served with chocolate espresso ice cream and an easy homemade hot fudge sauce.

EPISODE 7: DEVIL’S FOOD CAKE
PREMIERES MONDAY, MARCH 14 AT 11:00AM ET

Martha’s recipes and techniques make it easy to treat yourself to devil’s food cake. She shows how to create it from scratch, moist and full of flavor. She makes the best chocolate cake even better by finishing it with the perfect topping: a delicious, creamy, homemade milk chocolate frosting. Martha uses the same batter for Hi-Hat cupcakes: chocolate cupcakes topped with a mountain of meringue that is then dipped in melted chocolate to create a hard yet delicate shell. Finally she shares her secret for the best brownies: fudgy with a crackly top.

EPISODE 8: PATE A CHOUX
PREMIERES MONDAY, MARCH 21 AT 11:00AM ET

Pâte à Choux is a light dough used for cream puffs and éclairs. It’s simple to make, using only four ingredients, and it is versatile. Martha uses it to create her version of a classic cream puff – filled with ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce. She also demonstrates how pâte à choux can easily be turned into éclairs, piped full of sweet pastry cream and topped with maple-espresso icing. Finally Martha adds spices and cheese to her pâte à choux to make gougeres, savory hors d’oeuvres that are quite addictive.

EPISODE 9: MERINGUE
PREMIERES MONDAY, MARCH 28 AT 11:00AM ET

Fluffy and sweet, meringue can be crafted many different ways from just a handful of ingredients. Martha has three meringue recipes she loves – and viewers will love them too. First, a treat from Down Under: pavlova, a cake-like meringue which has a crunchy shell and a soft, moist interior, topped with whipped cream and passion fruit. Martha demonstrates the perfect (and easy) way to make the extraordinary French treat ile flottante (“floating island”): an island of meringue drizzled with caramel and served in a pool of crème anglaise. Finally, she makes Huguenot Torte, a crisp meringue baked with nuts and diced apples and topped with whipped cream.

EPISODE 10: PATE SUCREE
PREMIERES MONDAY, APRIL 4 AT 11:00AM ET

The sweet pastry known as pâte sucrée is what most people know as tart dough. Martha shows us it is easy to create elegant desserts by starting with a fully baked homemade tart shell. She creates the shells and uses them in two desserts: first, a lemon mousse damask tart in a fluted shell with candied lemon peel. Then, a black bottom tart made in a shell brushed with chocolate, filled with custard and whipped cream. Plus, Martha creates a chocolate tart shell layered with homemade caramel and chocolate ganache, finished with a sprinkling of sea salt.

EPISODE 11: YEAST DOUGH
PREMIERES MONDAY, APRIL 11 AT 11:00AM ET

Yeast dough requires a little bit of waiting, but as Martha demonstrates this doesn’t mean it’s difficult to work with. Martha will demonstrate her yeast dough made with butter and sour cream: it’s rich and tender. With whole pecans she turns the dough into sweet and gooey sticky buns. By adding cinnamon and sugar she creates simple but fun sugar buns. And she uses a Bundt pan to turn her dough into sweet, pull-apart monkey bread.

EPISODE 12: BISCUITS AND SCONES
PREMIERES MONDAY, APRIL 18 AT 11:00AM ET

Biscuits and scones are the perfect start to any day, and with Martha’s recipes they’re easy to make anytime. There’s plenty of variety to be had including flaky herb buttermilk biscuits with dill, chives, and rosemary; angel biscuits (made with yeast) which are light and airy; and tender and fluffy cream scones made with two types of flour and flavored with juicy currants soaked in orange liqueur.

EPISODE 13: MUFFINS AND POPOVERS
PREMIERES MONDAY, APRIL 25 AT 11:00AM ET

Muffins and popovers are comfort foods that are fun to make. Martha demonstrates why as she bakes some of her favorites: blueberry muffins studded with fresh blueberries; classic golden-brown puff popovers, perfect with butter or jam; giant cheese popovers, ideal for filling with her fried eggs, creamed spinach and bacon; plus, Martha will explain how to make the very best blueberry preserves.

Living With Collections - Cake Stands

2011-01-16T16:02:00.000-05:00

The February issue of Martha Stewart Living featured a great article, "Objects of Their Affection," the story of collectors and their collections.

After reading the article (and going back and reading it a couple more times) I started thinking about the various collections I have and enjoy. One such collection is my collection of cake stands.

I have never seriously considered the numerous cake stands I have as a "collection." By that I mean, I never think about 'adding a cake stand to the collection" when I see one I want to buy. I just see one and like it and think about how I can use it.

Cake stands are actually quite versatile. Not only can you do a great presentation of a cake, but you can use them as decorating elements, use them as serving pieces for dinner parties, or as Martha pointed out a couple years ago, you can use one on your counter as a caddy to hold salts, herbs, and other cooking essentials.

In the coming months, I'll share some of my collections. For now, here are a few of my cakes stands that line the shelves in my kitchen:

I've grown very fond of white-ware cake stands. Most of my collection is from Macy's. This cake stand was the first "limited edition" cake stand from the Martha Stewart Collection.

This set of cake stands are available at Macy's or on Macys.com. These stands are a bit different in design. There is no lip around the edge which makes for very easy serving.

Two more limited edition cake stands from the Martha Stewart Collection. The top one was a gift from my friend Elaine. This stand gets used all the time. The bottom was never a favorite of mine, but when I found it at a discounted price, I thought I would pick it up.

Probably my most prized cake stands is this set of four that I purchased from Martha by Mail in the late 90's. These cake stands became iconic symbols in the Martha empire, even being featured in NY Christmas windows in 1999. They range in sizes from 12" - 6"

More white-ware cake stands from the Martha Stewart Collection. I love the simple design of the bases. Most recently, I found the very small "cupcake stands" (on the right) at Macy's. They match their full size siblings perfectly and make for a great presentation of an oversized cupcake or individual dessert.

David's mother gave me this glass cake stand in 1998. I love the 'music' design in the glass. It will always be a favorite.

This is actually a pedestal tart plate. An eight inch tart fits perfectly.

February Living - Inspiration x2

2011-01-10T20:39:00.000-05:00

The February issue of Martha Stewart Living is devoted to the love of chocolate.

While many of us are weaning ourselves off of sweet treats from the holidays, Valentine's Day isn't Valentine's Day without indulging in at least a little bit of creamy, chocolate goodness.

This issue is chocked full of ideas to make your Valentine swoon this year. From delightful cards, to delicious treats (with chocolate, of course!), you're sure to be inspired to find a special way to tell that special someone just how much you love them.

The February issue marks the first regular issue of Martha Stewart Living to be available for the iPad. Starting with this issue, Martha Stewart Living magazine will be available in print and interactive digital format. Single issue and digital subscription pricing has not yet been released.

Digital subscribers will experience Martha Stewart Living in a whole new light. Interactive features, and videos are part of this delicious issue.

Living produced the first digital issue in November, with the release of a special issue titled "Boundless Beauty" which very quickly became one of the best selling apps for the iPad.

Whether you love the feel of a magazine in your hand, or prefer the brilliant digital look and feel, Martha Stewart Living will be available in the format you want and enjoy most. To get a sneak preview of the February issue for the iPad, see the MOBILE page at marthastewart.com.

In Search of the Spurtle

2011-01-06T20:08:00.000-05:00

In recent weeks, I've received several blog comments and emails regarding a kitchen tool that Lucinda Scala Quinn referenced in my interview with her last year; the Spurtle. Seems that many people are looking for a spurtle!

The Spurtle, is a Scots kitchen tool , dating from at least the fifteenth century. It was originally a flat, wooden, spatula-like utensil used for flipping oatcakes on a hot griddle. Over time, the utensil changed shape into a stirring stick, being used for stirring soups and oatmeal. It was thought that the original flat design crushed the oats while stirring, which was undesirable. The rod like shape was made for constant stirring and would prevent the porridge from congealing and becoming lumpy.

In the United States, the Spurtle is still thought of as the cross between a wooden spoon, a spatula, and a turner.

In the early 1990's, "spurtles" made an American comeback as one of the essential kitchen tools. Today, the term is not as likely to be used as the utensils description.

I did find a great source (for those that have asked) for hand-turned and crafted spurtles (or also known as "classic stirrers"). Check out the Forest Treasures for more information on their beautiful stirrers.

For those that have asked, I hope this helps a little bit. If a hand-crafted spurtle is not to your liking, I would suggest shopping at your favorite kitchen supply store for a similarly designed utensil!

Great Memories in 2010

2010-12-31T08:34:00.000-05:00

2010 was an amazing year for us. We made so many new friends, attended several great events, and opened our own company. Here's just a quick look back and some of the more memorable moments from this year:

I had the pleasure of meeting Lucinda Scala Quinn, author and host of "Mad Hungry." She came to the area to promote the release of her cookbook, "Mad Hungry." We had 'tweeted' with each other prior to meeting, so in many ways it was like meeting an old friend.

Lucinda signed my copy of Mad Hungry, addressed to my Twitter name.

My favorite Aunt celebrated her 75th birthday. I was honored when asked to create her celebration cake.

There is nothing better than having dinner with friends during the middle of winter. After meeting Jackie Purcell at the first Harvest Festival in Sharon Springs, we decided to meet for dinner in February. It was the first time we met Dave Purcell and our family instantly grew. Jackie and Dave have since became two of our dearest friends.

Sometimes the best moments are those that mean nothing to others. Capturing our youngest cat, Sirius in a quiet moment with "Daddy Dave" is always priceless.

Our friends Matt and Marcie tied the knot this year. These two are made for each other in every way.

My cake business seemed to turn into the cookie business this year. Several orders for "cookie pops" came in. They really are easy to make and a great alternative to cakes and/or boxed cookies.

We are always happy to be in Sharon Springs with our friends Brent and Josh. We attended the world premiere of their new show, "The Fabulous Beekman Boys" on Planet Green. The village turned out with great support.

Josh and Brent spoke to those in attendance during the premiere. The auditorium was PACKED.

Getting sniffs, hugs, and nudges from Polka Spot is always wonderful. She loves the camera!

For my birthday, we spent ten days at the Beekman. Now mind you, a 'vacation' at the Beekman is a working vacation. Here, I'm cutting the grass right before I planted 20,000 sunflowers. Helping out at the farm isn't like work.. It's more like contributing.

Bubby, the head barn cat at the Beekman is one of the most delightful animals on the farm. We bonded.

In conjunction with the world premiere of the "Fabulous Beekman Boys" Josh Kilmer-Purcell released his new book, "The Bucolic Plague." Josh signed copies of the book for friends and fans on the porch of the Beekman 1802 Mercantile.

During our spring visit, I had the opportunity to help out at the Mercantile. (after cutting the grass, planting sunflowers, helping in the garden..)

In my own gardens this year, the hydrangeas were just gorgeous and never ending.

There's no better way to beat the heat than to be in Port Washington, Wisconsin. It's a beautiful place.

During our visit to Port Washington, we shopped at the Saturday morning Farmer's Market. Many great finds!

We visited with our friends Jackie and Dave. They have welcomed us into their lives like family, and mean the world to us. This picture of Jackie represents what we do a lot when we are together... laugh.

I think we drove Dave crazy sometimes. Such a good man.

August always means the "Woodward Dream Cruise" in our area. We attended this classic car show and jotted our thanks to Jerry Hodak, who was retiring from our local ABC affiliate, WXYZ-TV Channel 7. Jerry did the weather in our market for 40 years!

After months of 'tweeting' with each other as part of the #EarlyRisers, WXYZ morning anchor Alicia Smith and I finally met face to face. She is one of the nicest people I have ever met.

After meeting at the Dream Cruise, David and I were invited to drop by the station for a visit. We brought a cake and gave the morning team #EarlyRisers t-shirts. It was a dream come true for me to sit behind the anchor desk.

We were back in Sharon Springs for the second annual Harvest Festival. Here, David and I are spending a few minutes with Farmer John and Jason in the barn.

David and I produced a series of Beekman t-shirts and sold them during the Harvest Festival. They were a hit!

Josh and Brent have a mass appeal to people of all ages. During the Harvest Festival, the sidewalks were filled with people wanting a moment with the fabulous pair. And to think I knew them when...

More WXYZ moments when we attended the first #EarlyRisers/#backchannel Tweetup. Here we are with morning anchor Vic Faust. Vic gets my vote for the best hair in local news.

Throughout the year, we met so many great people, it would take the entire blog to mention them all. It's been a fantastic year. Sending best wishes and warm thoughts for an inspiring and wonderful New Year!

Welcome 2011

2010-12-31T06:08:00.000-05:00

Wishing you a safe and Happy New Year!

Martha Stewart Weddings Features A Special Wedding

2010-12-30T05:15:00.000-05:00

The newest issue of Martha Stewart Weddings (Winter, 2011) is on the newsstand and full of great inspiration for brides and grooms to be.

I was taken with the story " Celebrating at Aunt Martha's" which featured the wedding of Martha's nephew, Christopher Herbert and his long-time partner, Tim Long.

Those of you who have followed Martha for any length of time may remember a young Christopher, from his numerous appearances on the original Martha Stewart Living television series.

Christopher, an incredible classical singer met his partner, pianist Tim Long while auditioning in Aspen, Colorado. Two years later, Christopher and Tim met once again at the same festival and they both knew love was in the air. After two years of long distance dating, the couple moved in together on New York City's Upper West Side. Four years later, Christopher and Tim broke the news to "Aunt Martha" that they wanted to get married. Martha gleefully responded, "Let's do it at my house in Bedford."

The story is a delightful and inspirational look at the celebration enjoyed by friends and family of the happy couple. The outdoor service was held in front of Martha's stone-crafted horse barn, which proved to be a beautiful backdrop for the special day.

During the planning, Christopher and Tim made it clear to wedding planners Ann David, Nicky Reinhard and designer David Stark, they wanted the event to feel like a casual afternoon hanging out with friends - no rules, no formalities. Working with the Martha Stewart Weddings team, the afternoon was just that.

Guests enjoyed three square buttercream cakes - one chocolate, one vanilla and one marble to symbolize the new union. The cakes were simply decorated, reflecting the casual feel of the celebration. I'm always taken with the beauty of the cakes featured in the magazine.

To see more of Christopher and Tim's special day, pick up the latest issue of Weddings at your local newsstand. You can also enjoy more online at Martha Stewart Weddings.

2010-12-25T04:56:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas To All.. and To All A Good Night..

2010-12-24T20:34:00.000-05:00

As I sit here to write this post, I'm enjoying the wonderment and magic of Christmas Eve. I've always loved this night... the world calms down at just about 6pm and we spend the evening at home, with a nice dinner, last minute wrapping, and waiting for Santa's arrival.

The cookies are baked. The presents are wrapped. The cats are trying to get into their stockings. It's Christmas.

To my friends, my family, and all who happen upon this small place called "House Blend," I wish you a very Merry Christmas and my best wishes for an inspiring, Happy New Year. See you in 2011!

Martha Gets Animated

2010-12-16T20:35:00.000-05:00

Tune into the Hallmark Channel on Monday, December 20 to see Martha like you've never seen her before.

Martha gets animated in the new series "Martha and Friends" which follows the adventures of a young Martha and her friends Hannah, Kevin, and Lily. The series premieres with a Christmas special, "Martha and the Christmas Tree."

It’s a snowy Christmas Eve and Martha and her friends, Kevin, Lily and Hannah are running late, very late. Tonight is Bedford Falls' annual tree-trimming contest and Martha and her friends have worked tirelessly all year in preparation for the magical event. Time is of the essence. But with every attempt to decorate, an emergency arises among their friends, taking the kids out in to the cold night air and away from their tree. Can they help their friends and still finish in time? You'll have to watch the show to find out (something tells me our animated heroine will prevail).

Martha Stewart Living Craft Furniture

2010-12-16T20:27:00.000-05:00

Recognizing that every good crafter needs a well organized and functional space, Martha Stewart Living is introducing a new line of craft room furniture, available exclusively with the Home Decorators Collection.

Each craft room collection includes everything the serious crafter would need to keep their supplies in order and within easy reach. Storage, work desks, and counter height work islands are the basic pieces found in each collection. Additional accessories are also available.

The craft furniture line will be available through the Home Decorators Collection beginning December 21.

Other Martha Stewart Furniture lines (available through Home Decorators) include bedroom, home office, dining, living room, and patio.

Break Time!

2010-12-14T20:33:00.000-05:00

So.. looking at my blog, I realized that I haven't updated since December 1. That was quite some time ago, eh?

I'll be posting this weekend. I have a few things up my sleeve. :-)

Holiday Cookie Inspiration

2010-12-01T12:21:00.000-05:00

Every year, I traditionally make oversized, decorated sugar cookies for family, friends, and guests during the holidays. I was inspired to take on this tradition after watching Martha Stewart bake and decorate sugar cookies on her television show in 1994.

In 1995, the first of the oversized copper cookie cutters were made available through Martha by Mail. The Moon and Star cookie cutter set, was one of the most popular sets ever produced for the company and is the most sought after set by collectors today (Martha by Mail ceased operations during the first quarter of 2005).

For the last two years, I've made oversized snowmen cookies. This year, I'm inspired by the 20th anniversary of Martha Stewart Living and the very first set of copper cookie cutters, the Moon and Star. My original set of Moon/Star cookie cutters will be put to good use this year as I create 'anniversary' celebration cookies perfect for the holidays.

In her second Christmas book, "A Handmade Christmas," Martha featured the moon and star cookies as a theme for a well decorated tree. To this day, the tree is one of the classic images I remember most from Martha Stewart Living.

What will you be baking this year?

Martha Stewart to Accept Lifetime Achievement Award

2010-11-29T15:55:00.000-05:00

Advertising Age magazine has announced that Martha Stewart will accept the Media Vanguard Lifetime Achievement Award, on November 30 at the Ad Age ME conference.

According to Ad Age, when the MVA judges and editorial staff from their publication discussed who would be the recipient of the award, it was hands down unanimous: Martha Stewart.

Throughout her career, even in the early years, Martha understood and mastered multimedia. From her first book, "Entertaining" to her PBS video series and regular appearances on the Today Show, Martha took advantage of multimedia to become one of the most familiar American icons to date.

In 1997, Martha took her company public, with a full out "Omnimedia" approach to the ever growing library of how-to content. Books, television, merchandise, Internet, and digital all have their place with a single project. The approach is recognized as one of the most brilliant business platforms.

The Lifetime Achievement honor comes just as Martha Stewart Living magazine starts a year long 20th anniversary celebration.

Congratulations, Martha!

Less is Merrier - 2010 Decorating

2010-11-28T14:08:00.001-05:00

For years, Christmas was EVERYWHERE in our home, beginning the day after Thanksgiving (sometimes even a bit before..) This year I decided that it would be a bit different. Less is more, and less is merrier. Here is a quick look at some of the holiday decorations for this year:

Every year, one of the first ornaments I put on our tree, is an ornament given to me by David's Mother. Prior to her illness and eventual passing, we would share the joy of the Christmas season. Hanging this ornament on our tree each and every year, always reminds me of her unselfish love. How I miss her...

Our tree is pretty much red/white/silver (I know, Mike... SO last year..). A mix of vintage ornaments, and newer ornaments cover the tree. With my love of all things retro, I found some plastic icicles from the late 50's that just hook over the tree branches. I spruced them up a bit with a fresh coat of fine white glitter. I love them! I remember my Mom and Dad having those same icicles years and years (and years) ago.

Another treasure that was found this year.. glittered pine cones. These pine cones were 'decorated' (and a couple painted teal green) by David's Mom, years ago. David found them recently while cleaning out a few things. These have to be at least 20-30 years old. I placed them in a beautiful metal basket I bought during our trip to Sharon Springs last spring.

Making it merry, but keeping it simple. Since the color scheme is red/white/silver, I decided to take this antique red/white pitcher, place it on a white square plate, fill the plate with faux cranberries and VOILA! Festive, but subtle. As we get closer to Christmas, I'll fill the pitcher with fresh evergreen boughs.

I have these large canisters in my kitchen and one always seems to stand empty. I filled it with blue/green ornaments.

We inherited Davids Grandmothers Hoosier cabinet a few years ago. Here, white cake stands, red/white holiday plates, and a large white casserole are displayed. I'll be cutting pine boughs for decoration in the casserole. It makes a wonderful display piece!

Shades of blue ornaments fill apothecary jars on our mantel shelf in the kitchen eating area.

In honor of Martha's 20th anniversary, I pulled out the Jadeite cake stands to create a nice centerpiece for the kitchen table. The snowmen were purchased at Kmart several years ago (Martha Stewart Everyday) The tablecloth is a vintage (50's) table cloth with a beautiful retro print.

Except for adding some fresh greens (likely next weekend) the house is ready for the holidays. Now, I need to start working on the over sized decorated sugar cookies!

A Brief Delay

2010-11-27T18:22:00.000-05:00

My usual routine of having the house converted to a Christmas wonderland in a day has been slightly delayed.. (so much for tradition, eh?) I'll be posting photos soon!

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T19:23:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving. I'll be back on Friday with holiday decorating 2010!
xoxox

Beatles Music Library On iTunes?

2010-11-15T20:41:00.000-05:00

Rumors are swirling after Apple made the less than subtle announcement that the company had something to share at a news conference Tuesday afternoon.

The Wall Street Journal and other news services are reporting that after years of negotiating, Apple and EMI Records have come to an agreement to sell a library full of Beatles music through iTunes. The one gap in the Apple extensive music catalog has been the missing Beatles library.

Apple currently sells more music than any of the large retailers such as Wal-Mart and Amazon. In the last several years, CD sales have declined as digital music services have become more popular.

Apple is scheduled to make an announcement at 3pm, Tuesday, November 16th.

Martha Stewart Living Radio Thanksgiving Cookbook

2010-11-12T16:26:00.000-05:00

Once again this year, Martha Stewart Living Radio will make Thanksgiving a breeze with their Thanksgiving Hotline, on November 22, 23, and 24th.

Join Martha and huge lineup of your favorite chefs as they provide helpful hints and tips, delicious recipes, and emergency rescue advice for the Thanksgiving host/ess.

Also available on the Sirius/XM website is the 2010 Martha Stewart Living Radio Thanksgiving Hotline Cookbook. This cookbook is available to download and best of all, it's FREE! VISIT the Sirius/XM - Martha Stewart website to download your cookbook today - and listen the week of Thanksgiving (Sirius 112 / XM 157) for all the help you could ever need.

Martha Stewart Living Goes Digital for the iPad

2010-11-10T19:58:00.001-05:00

Twenty years after Martha Stewart launched her groundbreaking magazine, she's set to shake things up again with a special premiere digital issue of Martha Stewart Living.

Log into iTunes and you can download an entire issue of brand-new content you won't find in print anywhere else. Created and designed especially for the iPad with astonishing animation and interactivity, this special edition has all the original, inspiring, authoritative information, recipes, and how-tos that you've come to love from Martha. It's a whole new way to experience Living.

The special issue, entitled "Boundless Beauty" features:

More than 23 recipes for delicious dinners and desserts
20 slide shows with step-by-step instructions
5 behind the scenes videos
4 panoramas

Download this special issue and you can:

Scroll through a slide show of Martha's early years: her modeling portfolio and her first home, cooking, and gardening projects. Plus, listen to an interview with a fellow creative guru.

Take a panoramic 180-degree tour of Martha's peony garden and watch a video of how she makes her spectacular arrangements.

Find out what happens when two decorating editors go head-to-head, then vote for your favorite room and get live voting results.

Experience the untouched Alaskan landscape with its glaciers, mountains, and rugged shoreline; ride along with a salmon fisherman on the pristine Copper River; and learn new recipes to make wild Pacific salmon at home.

Get inspired for your next celebration with - bubbles! Fizzy drinks and floating decorations plus sweet and savory treats add up to an effervescent atmosphere.

Go glam: Get a holiday makeover with festive product picks. Toggle between before and after shots to see the stunning transformations.

Be jeweled! Learn how to make fantastic plastic jewelry using not much more than polymer clay, your oven, and a few basic molds.

Boundless Beauty is a special issue that is not included in a regular subscription to Martha Stewart Living magazine. This issue is available for $3.99 and is available HERE. Be warned! Boundless Beauty is not a quick download.

Macy's To Unveil Holiday Windows on November 18

2010-11-09T17:51:00.000-05:00

It's a holiday tradition as the Christmas windows are unveiled to kick-off the holiday season!

Macy's Herald Square unveils its Christmas windows at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 18 with the classic holiday story of Virginia O'Hanlon, a little girl who chose to believe in Santa Claus. And, this season is sure to be more animated and theatrical than ever, as Macy's brings the magic of the Broadway stage to the world famous Broadway windows in its first-ever collaboration with PRG Scenic Technologies in bringing the animated television holiday special "Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus," to life.
__________________________________
Photo courtesy of Macy's, Inc.

"Believe" is Back This Holiday Season

2010-11-07T19:41:00.000-05:00

Building on the strength of its beloved ‘Believe’ campaign, Macy’s announced exciting elements of its third-annual national holiday effort to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Adding to the campaign’s unprecedented success collecting more than 2.5 million letters in the first two years, Macy’s will again ask customers to mail their letter to Santa at Macy’s to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Additional efforts include launching another National Santa Tour to 26 new cities and celebrating the second annual National Believe Day on Friday, December 10. The campaign kicks off on Sunday, November 7, with a new animated television spot that will nod to the “Yes, Virginia” animated holiday special produced by Macy’s last year. “Yes, Virginia” will air again this year on December 17, on CBS.

The nostalgic holiday campaign, inspired by the New York Sun’s famous “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” editorial from 1897, features letter-writing “Believe Stations” in Macy’s stores across the country with Macy’s making a $1 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for each letter deposited in Macy’s Santa Mail, up to $1 million.

“Macy’s ‘Believe’ effort continues to inspire people across the country to celebrate the season’s spirit of generosity and goodwill,” said Peter Sachse, Macy’s chief marketing officer. “Last year, we collected more than one million letters and hit our $1 million goal for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, but more important, we saw an outpouring of support by schools and communities coordinating letter drives to help support this effort or to come out to meet Macy’s famous Santa on his whirlwind bus tour. This year, we’re building on these new traditions, and we have some special new elements in store to celebrate National Believe Day.”

Beginning on November 7, believers of all ages are invited to drop off letters – stamped and addressed to Santa At The North Pole – at any Macy’s store in the Santa Mail letterbox. For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to $1 million, to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

“The Make-A-Wish Foundation is proud to join with Macy’s to make wishes come true through the ‘Believe’ campaign,” said David Williams, Make-A-Wish Foundation of America president and chief executive officer. “It inspires people to embrace the generosity of the season and think hopefully about the future. ‘Believe’ ties in perfectly with our mission to grant the heartfelt wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, and we appreciate the support of Macy’s and everyone who takes part in the campaign.”

‘Believe’ elements this year, include:

Macy’s National Santa Tour (Kicks off Nov. 27) – For the second year in a row, Santa will embark on a whirlwind American tour, spreading joy to girls and boys across the country following his celebratory kickoff of the holiday season in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. Stopping in 26 cities across the U.S. through December 22, Santa’s National Tour will give children the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the man himself. Visit www.macys.com/believe (site goes live November 7) for scheduled stops and to track Santa’s latest location.

National Believe Day (Dec. 10) – On Friday, December 10, Macy’s will again celebrate National Believe Day to celebrate the spirit of the season and to inspire kindness and generosity from coast to coast. The special day will again focus on the season’s message of humanity and charity toward others.

As National Believe Day approaches, more details will be released on this year’s effort.

“Yes, Virginia” Animated Special (Dec. 17)

Back by popular demand, CBS will re-air the original animated special, “Yes, Virginia.” Building on the story of 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon’s letter to the editor of the New York Sun in 1897, the holiday special takes us on a charming adventure about the existence of Santa Claus and the curiosity amongst believers. During the creation of “Yes, Virginia,” a special wish was fulfilled for then 11-year-old wish kid Taylor Hay – whose voice and likeness were captured for one of the characters. The half-hour holiday program will air on CBS on Friday, December 17, at 8 p.m. ET. Featuring an all-star cast of voices including Neil Patrick Harris, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Alfred Molina and Beatrice Miller in the title role, “Yes, Virginia” was created and produced by Macy's and JWT in conjunction with The Ebeling Group and MEC Entertainment, a division of Mediaedge:cia.

“Yes, Virginia” Merchandise

First a popular animated special on CBS, now “Yes, Virginia” is available as a DVD and book that families can share throughout the holiday season and entire year! Plus, each sale of the “Yes, Virginia” book and DVD at Macy’s helps spread kindness with a donation of 10 percent of the purchase price to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “Yes, Virginia” fans can also purchase holiday ornaments and a snow globe exclusively at Macy’s and Macys.com, all inspired by the original story that continues to make a believer of everyone!

Virginia Balloon

Making her debut in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade this year is a little girl who taught everybody to believe! Modeled after the animated version of 8-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon, Virginia is ready to kick off the holidays for her inaugural flight. And although, she "saw it in the Sun, so it must be so," Virginia will have a special treat when she escorts Santa Claus himself down the Parade route.

macys.com/believe (Site is live on Nov. 7)

• ‘Believe’ Activity Guide – Based on continued response from schools and teachers, Macy’s and the Make-A-Wish Foundation will again share a downloadable online toolkit to facilitate interest from teachers and schools that would like to use ‘Believe’ as a writing lesson or activity during the holiday season. The toolkit – which includes an updated letter-writing template to allow for more interactivity and design, coloring sheet and “I Believe” bookmark cut-out – can be found on macys.com/believe, then can be printed and mailed at Macy’s.

• Santa Tour Tracker – Macy’s ‘Believe’ microsite will also feature a map with Santa’s whirlwind tour schedule. All Santa stop details will be listed here for believers of all ages wanting to meet the man himself.

• Celebrities Believe – New on macys.com/believe is a “Celebrities Believe” page, showcasing all the celebrities that believe in the magic of the holiday season, on tour and at home, and still write their own letters to Santa! New celebrity letters will be posted periodically throughout the season.

Facebook: The ‘Believe’ Challenge (Site is live on Nov. 17)

Calling all Facebook users: help Virginia and Ollie get their letters to Santa! New to this year’s campaign, members of Facebook can “Like” Macy’s for a chance to play The ‘Believe’ Challenge. Inspired by 80s computer game Frogger®, the goal is to get your letter delivered in a certain amount of time, without getting hit by a flying snowball! Successfully deliver the letter and Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to $250,000, above the in-store donation. Members can help raise additional funds by posting their win on their personal page or inviting others to play!

The ‘Believe’ campaign is rooted in a letter to the editor written by 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon in 1897 asking if there is a Santa Claus. The New York Sun newsman Francis P. Church responded with a poignantly worded essay on the importance of believing, including the famous line “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist…”

The ‘Believe’ campaign launches on November 7 and runs through December 24. For believers who want to help make a difference, just look for the Believe Stations in every store that feature a Believe Meter, letter-writing station and an official R.H. Macy’s Santa Mail letterbox.

The Home Depot Offers Christmas Light Recycling

2010-11-05T18:36:00.000-04:00

Once again this year, The Home Depot is offering customers an opportunity to recycle their old working or non-working Christmas lights and receive $3.00 off any energy efficient LED light sets in the store, including Martha Stewart Living lights, new to the Home Depot this year.

From November 4 - November 14, customers can take in any working or non-working lights to their local Home Depot to receive their $3.00 discount. There is a limit of 5 recycle strands per customer.

Recycle and save this holiday season with energy efficient LED lights.

First Digital "Living" to be Released Thursday, November 11

2010-11-05T18:24:00.001-04:00

The first digital issue of Martha Stewart Living, titled "Boundless Beauty" is to be released on Thursday, November 11. No pricing specifics are yet available.

"Boundless Beauty," made specifically for the iPad, is being released as the company begins the Martha Stewart Living 20th Anniversary Celebration. The very first issue of Martha Stewart Living hit the newsstands 20 years ago this month.

Inside Martha Stewart Living, Boundless Beauty, readers will find articles on: Sparkling Celebrations; DIY Jewelry; Arranging Flowers; Entertaining with Martha; The Prettiest Good Things From the Last 20 Years; and The Making of Martha: A Photo Gallery.

Watch the Martha Stewart website this coming week for more details.

Martha Stewart Young Turkeys

2010-11-04T21:02:00.000-04:00

It's time to think about and talk turkey. Once again this year, Martha Stewart is offering all natural young turkeys in cooperation with Plainville Farms - one of the countries leading natural turkey growers.

Each whole turkey is juicy, tender, and delicious, humanely raised, and vegetarian fed. Martha Stewart Young Turkey is free of antibiotics and growth hormones, making it a healthy choice for your family.

These delicious, natural turkeys do come at a premium price, from $59.99 for a 12 pound bird to $79.99 for an 18 pound turkey. Turkeys are shipped via UPS. Additional shipping charges apply.

View more details about Martha Stewart all natural young turkeys here.

Martha Stewart Cookie App for iPad Now Available!

2010-11-01T11:46:00.000-04:00

The Martha Stewart Makes Cookies app for the iPad is now available! I downloaded the app first thing this morning and it is an incredible cooking app!

The splash page is enticing and beautifully created.

Welcome to the cookie 'runway.' Simply scroll through the runway to select one of your favorites or select a new cookie to bake.

Once you select your cookie, you'll come to the cover page for that particular cookie. Simply touch on the recipe link to find the recipe.

As you read through the recipe, you can set a timer, if it's required. For instance, if the dough needs to chill for 30 minutes, you can set the timer at that point in the recipe and walk away. The timer will sound when the required time has expired.

Spin the cookie wheel! Looking for a particular type of cookie? You can use the wheel to select cookies by your own criteria.

Also included in the app is a great shopping list feature that will automatically create a shopping list from the selected recipe(s). You can email the shopping list to your smart phone or to your email address. Many of the recipes include a how-to video or packaging hints and tips. You can even email yourself templates for specific labels and cookie packaging options!

This app is creative, it's helpful, and it is sure to become a valuable baking resource for years to come! Best of all, there are no cookbooks to store, and worry about keeping clean!

The Martha Stewart Makes Cookies app for iPad is slated for an additional upgrade in January 2011. The app costs $7.99 and is well worth it!

You can download the app here.

New Holiday Issue and Cookie App for iPad

2010-10-29T18:51:00.000-04:00

You know the holiday season is about to begin when the Martha Stewart Holiday special issue hits the newsstands. This year, it's all about cookies once again.

This beautifully designed issue provides great cookie inspiration for every baker, from novice to expert. With 101 recipes to choose from, there will be something for everyone this holiday season.

Martha Stewart Holiday Cookies is divided into specific cookie loving categories: for Traditionalists; Trendsetters; Those far away; those near & dear; Little ones; Grown-ups; Health-conscious; and Hedonists. There are returning favorites as well as new recipes that are sure to become part of a new holiday tradition.

This special holiday issue release (on newsstands, Monday, November 1st) coincides with the release of the new iPad app "Martha Stewart Makes Cookies" slated for release on the same day. Martha Stewart Makes Cookies, will feature more than 50 recipes, ranging from classic shortbread to chocolate-chestnut meringues, and will present them on a nicely rendered "cookie runway" that allows for easy perusing.

The $8 app will include a number of features to help you on your path toward cookie baking expertise, including video tutorials, built-in cooking timers, shopping lists that can be e-mailed from the app, and a glossary of baking tools. It sounds like a very good thing. I'll be test driving the app on Monday and will be sure to share my thoughts.

Happy start to the holidays!

New Martha Stewart Holiday Special

2010-10-25T18:29:00.000-04:00

Martha Stewart will be hosting a holiday open house this season with her brand new holiday special, "Martha Stewart's Holiday Open House" on the Hallmark Channel.

Martha Stewart has been inspiring us to make our holidays both beautiful and meaningful for almost 30 years. In this holiday special, Martha opens her Maple Avenue home to demonstrate unique Christmas craft, culinary and decorating ideas. Throughout the hour Martha enlists the help of some celebrity friends such as Jennifer Garner and Claire Danes to help create edible gifts, decorate her home and prepare for her holiday open house. Air dates are yet to be announced.

A seasonal 'must' is the original Martha Stewart holiday prime time special that aired on CBS in 1995. "Martha Stewart's Home for the Holidays" is the quintessential Martha special and one I watch year after year. I never tire of this classic holiday how-to special. Thankfully, I copied my old worn out VHS tape to DVD a couple years ago!

So What's All This #EarlyRisers Thing About?

2010-10-24T19:48:00.004-04:00

Most recently, I've been asked by several friends who follow me on Twitter, what all tweets are about with the hashtag #EarlyRisers.

Our local ABC-TV affiliate WXYZ-TV has opened the doors to social media with the various newscasts throughout the day. For those of us that wake early and watch the 5-7 a.m. news, it's the #EarlyRisers. The 5, 6, 7 and 11 p.m. newscasts are the #backchannel and #7at7.

The interaction with the anchors and producers while they are on the air has given new life to the news. Instead of watching "the people in the box" talk to us, we can now talk to them, in near real time. Nearly every anchor, meteorologist, and traffic reporter is on Twitter. The true leader of the social media anchor pack is our evening anchor, Stephen Clark, who created the #backchannel. You can read about the creation and evolution of the #backchannel on Stephen's blog.

Because of my schedule, I've always been an early riser. I start each day with my favorite morning coffee, the 5 a.m. Action News, and my computer. It's my time to check email, check the various blogs/websites I watch closely, and to catch up with Twitter friends as the coffee runs through my veins to jump start my day.

Twitter has afforded David and I the opportunity to not only communicate with our favorite news team, but to become friends. Here is a short video from our pals, the morning news team, after one of their morning broadcasts. Meet Vic Faust, Anchor; Alicia Smith, anchor; Erin Nicole, Traffic Reporter; and Keenan Smith, Meteorologist. How can you not love these people?!

New at the Beekman 1802 Mercantile

2010-10-16T05:17:00.003-04:00

The Beekman 1802 Mercantile has been one of my favorite places to shop since the online store began a couple years ago. When a trip to Sharon Springs, New York to visit the Mercantile in person isn't possible, the online store brings the best of the Beekman directly to your door.

Josh and Brent are always looking for and creating new products. Here are a few of our favorite new products:

Beekman Basics:

Friends, fans, and followers of the hit television show "The Fabulous Beekman Boys" and Beekman 1802 will love the new Beekman Basics line of high quality accessories that allow you to show your Beekman pride.

The Beekman Basics long sleeve T, honors the namesake of the Beekman Farm, William Beekman. Available in two colors (sage, shown above and natural, shown below), this is the perfect shirt to wear out and about or while doing your chores. Durable and soft, this shirt will become a favorite, like a pair of well worn jeans! (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

There's no reason you can't be eco-friendly and chic at the same time, right? The Beekman 1802 Carry-it-all Tote is made of recycled cotton canvas and generously sized. The flat square bottom provides you maximum space for all of your essentials. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

The Beekman 1802 Do-It-All Apron is an essential you'll want to have. Made of a sturdy weight cotton, this apron will keep you well protected no matter what you're doing. The apron coverage area is adjustable. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

Seasonal Goat Milk Soaps

Shhh... don't tell Brent, but on our visit to the Beekman Farm last spring, I could hardly keep my nose out of the scented oils that represent the four seasons. Each scent perfectly captures the season and I'm thrilled to see these four new soaps.

Imagine jumping into a pile of fallen leaves. Walk through the kitchen at the farm and smell the seasonal spices of a fresh baked pumpkin spice cake. Cozy up to the first fire in the fireplace. The Autumn season is full of these wonderful scents and are perfectly captured in this beautifully created seasonal soap. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

Whiskers on kittens and warm woolen mittens.. these are a few of my favorite things. Some may think that winter is void of scent (short of the holiday season) but I have to disagree. One whiff of this beautiful scent will take you back to the first time you jumped into a snow drift or made a snow angel. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

The blades of the first green grass, the warming spring breezes, and the first blossoms of spring all come to life in this wonderful scent that reminds you of the new beginnings the season brings. Crisp, clean, and natural, spring is always a favorite. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

When you walk through the garden during the summer months it's easy to go into sensory overload! The summer scent captures the best of the summer and will easily take you back to a time when living is easy. Transport yourself to those lazy, hazy days of summer every morning when you start your day. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

Indulge yourself with a milk shake. No, not the kind you find at your favorite soda shoppe; but with a milkshake bath soak. For those days when you just want to pamper yourself, whip up a Beekman 1802 Milk Shake, add it to your bath, and relax. Made of pure dehydrated goat milk and mineral salts, the Beekman 1802 Milk Shake is available in any of the seasonal scents. You'll feel "pretty like you mean it" after enjoying one of these shakes. (photo courtesy of Beekman 1802)

As we begin thinking about the holiday season ahead, we can't think of anyone who wouldn't enjoy a brown paper package tied up with string, from the Beekman 1802 Mercantile. You can visit the Mercantile if you're in Sharon Springs or you can order online. See the complete line of products by clicking here.

Martha Stewart Crafts: Holiday 2010

2010-10-16T04:02:00.000-04:00

Martha Stewart Crafts continues to grow with the release of the 2010 holiday line; the largest holiday craft line yet.

With 150+ crafting and food packaging products to choose from, all crafters and bakers are sure to find products perfect for their holiday projects. Here is a peek at the wide variety of holiday food packaging boxes for this year with some returning favorites as well as all new designs;

Snowflake Compartment Box $14.99

Candy Cane Matchbox Box $14.99

Candy Cane Compartment Box w/ Window $14.99

Snowflake Treat Boxes $14.99

Elegant Matchbox $14.99

Scandinavian Tree Compartment Box $14.99

Scandinavian Treat Box $16.99

Scandinavian Treat Boxes $7.99

Winter Wonderland Treat Boxes $14.99

Winter Wonderland Compartment Treat Boxes w/ Window $14.99

Snowglobe Treat Boxes $9.99

Snowflake Doily Treat Boxes $9.99

There are so many products to choose from! You can view the entire line here