Celebrating May Day

May Day was once, in its earliest days of glory, quite a celebrated date. It was marked by plenty of dancing, singing, and merriment.

This unofficial holiday was never and is still not really considered a holiday by most people in the United States. In fact, it is often overlooked completely. The reason for this is quite possibly the fact that it was not recognized by the Christian church in the earlier days. Some places, though, do hold annual parades and plan festive events to celebrate the end of the winter season as well as the beginning of spring. The city of Minneapolis held their first May Day parade in the year of 1975. Part of the parade is said to be life-size puppets. The gala event is said to draw thousands of people every year.

It is quite possible that May Day began a long time ago with the Druids and their custom of worshipping trees. But, the original May Day is thought to have started as part of the spring rituals which were celebrated in Europe before the Christians came to power. When the Christians abolished or changed the pagan holidays for their own use, May Day was completely left out. Since it was a celebration of spring as well as fertility rites, the Christians decided that they wanted no part of the illicit sexual activities which were commonly promoted.

This holiday was often symbolized by the colorful new growth of spring. It was an early tradition for the youngsters of Europe to carry fresh flowers and boughs and to visit neighborhood houses. They would sing songs that commemorated the arrival of springtime too. People typically decorated their homes with fresh flowers, green leaves, and tree branches. And, May Poles were a common sight on this holiday. Some considered the poles to represent the "tree of life."

They were erected in the town squares in order to mark the presence of spring as well as the coming of summer when all of the trees, flowers, and crops would be growing heartily in the light of the golden sunshine. The May Poles were usually trees that had been cut down in the forests. The branches were removed, and the trees were then carried into town. Brightly colored ribbons were then attached to the tops of the trees. The youngsters took turns grabbing a ribbon and dancing around the poles as part of their May Day celebration. Some cultures believed that the winding of the ribbons around the May Poles was an attempt at helping Nature remain in balance after the long, cold winter, and continue its plush green growth cycle. The youngsters would wind the ribbons together in a colorful pattern. The youngsters also held an annual election in which they selected a May Day King and Queen who were then supposed to preside over the day's events.

Happy May Day!

Spring Cookie Treats

One of my co-workers came to work today with a wonderful assortment of decorated sugar cookies in a tin that looked very, very familiar. Cookies from Martha Stewart for 1-800 Flowers.

These cookies were wonderful! Bright, cheery, beautifully decorated and perfect for a spring time cookie break.

Each tin contains 16 cookies and comes with a recipe card for sugar cookies. List price is $44.95

For more information on this and other items from the Martha Stewart for 1-800 Flowers program, check out the 1-800 website.

Farewell to Bea Arthur

Bea Arthur, best known for her role as the ever sassy and opinionated Maude and equally sassy Dorothy on the "Golden Girls" died today from cancer. She was 86.

I'm so sad to hear this news. I remember vividly watching every episode of "Maude" as well as the "Golden Girls." I always enjoyed the sharp wit and sarcasm of her character roles.

After making appearances on the iconic "All in the Family," Maude was spun off into it's own successful series in 1972. The show co-starred Bill Macy (Walter Findley), Adrienne Barbeau (Carol Traynor), Conrad Bain (Dr. Arthur Harmon), and Rue McClanahan (Vivian Cavender Harmon).

Bea Arthur starred along side Rue McClanahan again for the highly successful "Golden Girls," which debut on NBC in 1985. Betty White (Rose Nylund), McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux), and the unforgettable Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo) co-starred on the show.

Both of the series tackled what many thought were 'risky' subjects of the day: abortion, single motherhood, homosexuality, women's rights, rape, and racism in the country.

Both series can often be found in syndication on retro-television cable networks.

Update to Martha Stewart Visit to Detroit

Martha to Sign Her Best-Selling Books - Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts and Martha Stewart's Cookies

Inforum, Michigan's largest business organization for women, will feature a keynote address by Martha Stewart, America's most trusted guide to stylish living, at its 47th Annual Meeting luncheon on Friday, May 15, at the Detroit-Marriott Renaissance Center. The public is welcome to purchase tickets to this event.

Inforum's 47th Annual Meeting offers the public a rare opportunity to hear Martha Stewart share the inspirational message of how she's used business savvy to turn her passions into a leading national brand and a diverse media and merchandising company--Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.

Following the luncheon, at approximately 2:30 p.m., the public is invited to attend a book signing where Martha will sign copies of her best sellers -- "Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts" and "Martha Stewart's Cookies." Books will be available for purchase on site.

From home decor and delectable dining to gardening, crafting and more, Martha Stewart has had more influence on how Americans eat, entertain, and decorate their homes and gardens than any one person in recent history. But this success story might have turned out differently if Martha Stewart had listened to naysayers who discouraged her from entering the already competitive arenas of publishing a magazine for women and producing a daytime television show.

"Today, Martha Stewart is a household name and one of the strongest brands on the market," said Inforum President and CEO Terry Barclay. "Inforum is pleased to present this opportunity for Ms. Stewart to share tips about what it takes to be a successful innovator and entrepreneur and triumph against the odds. It's a positive motivational message for women, or anyone, in business during these challenging times."

The 2009-10 Inforum board of directors and officers also will be inducted at this annual meeting.

Date: Friday, May 15, 2009
Time: 11:30 a.m. Networking & Registration; 11:50 a.m. Luncheon & Presentation;

Book signing for luncheon participants with Martha Stewart immediately following the luncheon presentation
Place: Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243

Luncheon presentation cost: Inforum members, $50; Non-members, $70. (Add $10 after 5/10/2009 and at the door.)
Luncheon reservations: Visit May 15 on the calendar at http://www.inforummichigan.org/ or call 877.633.3500.

Public book signing: The public is invited to attend a book signing at approximately 2:30 p.m. Martha will sign copies of her best-selling books "Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts" and "Martha Stewart's Cookies" available for purchase on site.

Event sponsors: Lee Hecht Harrison and St. John Health.

This luncheon is hosted by Inforum. Inforum is one of the largest business organizations for women in the nation, with more than 1,800 members from a broad cross-section of Michigan's business community. The mission of the organization is to strengthen the business environment by creating opportunities for women to lead and succeed. Founded as the Women's Economic Club in 1962 in Detroit, Inforum now has affiliates in Grand Rapids and Lansing, Mich. For more information, visit http://www.inforummichigan.org/or call 313.578.3230.

Martha in Chicago May 1st for Two Events

Martha will be giving the keynote address at the Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair in Chicago, on Friday, May 1st. Martha's address will begin at 10:00 a.m.

To RSVP for the event, log in to the Merchandise Mart Antiques Fair website here. For more information, call 312.527.6885.

Martha is also scheduled to appear at Macy's on State Street at 1:00 p.m. for a book signing. Martha will be signing copies of the Encyclopedia of Crafts and Cooking School.

For more information on the book signing, contact Macy's public relations at 312.781.4884.

Martha Stewart To Be Keynote Speaker at Detroit Meeting

Martha Stewart will be the keynote speaker at Inforum's Professional Women's Alliance annual meeting and luncheon on May 15th.

Martha expected to discuss how she turned her passion for living and her business savvy into a thriving business. (Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia)

The meeting will be held at the Detroit Marriott-Renaissance Center and will begin at 11:30 a.m.

After the luncheon, Martha will sign copies of her books, two of which, "Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts," and "Martha Stewart's Cookies," will be available for on-site sales.

Tickets for the event are available for Inforum members. Additional tickets, if any, will be made available to the public on a first come first serve basis. Inforum will announce public ticket availability in the near future.

Martha Stewart Honored by ASPCA

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has selected Martha Stewart as the recipient of its Presidential Service Award.

The award will be presented by Ed Sayres, ASPCA president and CEO, at the 12th annual ASPCA Bergh Ball on Wednesday, April 23, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. "The ASPCA is delighted to honor Martha Stewart for her dedication to promoting compassion toward animals and for her continued celebration of the important human-animal bond," Sayres said.

Stewart was selected for embodying the values of the honor’s purpose, he added. The award recognizes individuals who have made a commitment to animals and have gone above and beyond for animal welfare and its mission, according to the organization.

The Bergh Ball is a black-tie gala that draws a crowd of animal enthusiasts in support of the organization’s mission, “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”

Stewart said: "My life has been greatly enriched by the many pets I have cared for over the years. I am deeply committed to the values the ASPCA embraces, and am honored to be receiving this award."
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Photo courtesy of marthastewart.com

The May issue of Everyday Food which arrives on newsstands April 27 is once again loaded with easy menus and practical advice for the home cook.

The cover story, "Chicken Tonight" gives all new recipes to classic chicken dishes such as Jamaican chicken curry and braised chicken with orange and scallions. Also included is a great 'how to' on cutting up a whole chicken, which is a great way to reduce costs in the kitchen.

Spring means rhubarb and this issue of Everyday Food features great desserts using this seasonal stalk. Try a rhubarb crumb bar or shortcake. Even try rhubarb in a chutney to complement meats.

Short on time but want a great dinner? Try "Dinner in 25." Great-tasting, and ready in less than 30 minutes, these casual meals are perfect for any day of the week. Try shrimp and zucchini tostadas and penne with two tomatoes and mozzarella.

Looking for a Mother's Day menu to treat Mom to something special? Celebrate with an impressive family-style lunch or dinner including roasted salmon with herbed yogurt, lemony smashed potatoes and buttermilk creams with strawberries. Mom (and the rest of the family) will love you for it.

The May issue of Everyday Food - on sale April 27th.

The First Glimpse of the Garden

Warm temperatures FINALLY arrived here in Michigan and it didn't take long for the gardens to respond. Here's a glimpse at what I found in the garden today.

The first leaves on the rose bushes appeared and seemed to love the 72 degree sunshine.


Once again this year, the daffodil blooms are far and few between. I'm still trying to investigate and find out why I'm having a lack of bloom affair with the daffodil family.

The first buds on my favorite Clematis Jackmani vine. The blooms are an incredible deep purple color.

Miniature tulips (they are so petite and beautiful) are about to bloom as they push up their flower buds through the Lillie's that are already emerging

Much to my surprise, this Hosta has grown by leaps and bounds! It won't be long until he's in his complete glory!

Even before I could get the flower bed cleaned out, some Lady's Mantle (or Ladies Mantle... I've seen it both ways...) is already leafing out. These plants get quite large and the flowers are beautiful in the early summer. They are quite hardy and grow quickly.

What I love most is the thick lush growth of green grass. I'll be the barefoot gardener before too long!

An Anthem For These Times

It's no secret that Michigan is one of the hardest hit states in the country during these tough economic times.

The song, "This Time," kicks off a new promotional campaign for The Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News, with an anthem that pays tribute to the strength and grit of Southeast Michigan in these tough times.

While some may think an 'anthem' is a bit silly, the song "This Time" has become a fight song of sorts, instilling pride in the citizens of this great region of our state. Believe me, if a song can help lift the spirit of the people of Southeast Michigan, it's something worth having.




The song is available exclusively on iTunes.

Dreaming a Dream

Ms. Susan Boyle is a total inpsiration. Please click the link below and view the entire video. (at the request of the video owner, embedding is not allowed.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY


There is a huge lesson to be learned here. Watch the video and dream a dream.

Lyrics:

I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving.

Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used
And wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung No wine untasted.

But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame.

And still
I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms We cannot weather...

I had a dream my life would be
So different form this hell I'm living
so different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed
The dream I dreamed.

Get Ready for Summer Entertaining!

Looking for some great wares for summer entertaining? Check out Macy's "Best Choice" sale starting on Wednesday, April 15.

The Martha Stewart Collection picnicware line has everything you need to set a beautiful outdoor table and it's all on sale! From drink dispensers to beach towels and beach totes, the collection has something you can use. Most of the picnicware collection is made of durable melamine so you can forget the worries of accidental breakage on the patio.

The sale runs through Saturday. Use your Macy's charge -or- the savings pass and get an additional 15% off the sale prices!

Easter Greetings

Easter greetings to one and all!

May - In Living Color

The May issue of Martha Stewart Living arrived in my mailbox this afternoon and is loaded with color. Lots of color!

From the cover alone, it appears that Martha Stewart Living is taking a bit more of a fresh, younger 'take' on Living. Say, 10 years ago, this shot probably would not have made the short list of possible covers. At first, I was a bit taken back by the cover (not a traditional Martha cover), then I wasn't sure I liked it, and now, it's grown on me. It's bold, it gets your attention, and it makes you wonder what's inside. Isn't that what a magazine cover is suppose to do?

Inside, we're greeted with the first letter from Gael Towey, Acting Editor in Chief and Chief Creative Officer for the company. I've always loved Gael. She's been with Martha from the very beginning (August 1, 1990, as she points out in her letter). For those that have Sirius/XM radio, you can catch "Design Trends" with Gael Towey. Her guests are always interesting and sometimes she even gives listeners a sneak peek into the creative world of MSLO.

The issue covers color. From colors the editors love, to a wonderful article on the culture of color, readers are sure to be informed and inspired with the theme of this issue.

Martha takes us asparagus picking in her garden, there are plenty of 'good things,' and a great gardening article on ornamental grasses.

I won't spoil the rest of the issue for you... Oh! It wasn't an April Fool's joke in the last issue... Martha's calendar is here, chocked full of things to do and gentle reminders for the month of May.

For subscribers, the issue should be hitting your mailboxes any day and it will be hitting the newsstand on April 20.

Birthday Wishes

Today is a special, special day... it's my dear friend Elaine's birthday!

Those that are fortunate enough to have Elaine as a friend know that it's a friendship that will last a lifetime. Her love, her support, and her kindness is what friendship is all about. I can't imagine my life without her.

For you my dear friend, I'm sending very special birthday hugs and kisses! I hope you have a wonderful birthday!

xoxox

Martha's Upcoming Book Signing

Visitors to House Blend who live near Northridge, California should mark their calendars for next Sunday! Martha is coming to town!

Martha Stewart will be signing copies of her new book, "Martha Stewart Encyclopedia of Crafts" and best-seller "Martha Stewart's Cooking School" at Border's Books located in the Northridge Fashion Center (9301 Tampa Avenue) on Sunday, April 19, at 3 p.m.

Based on my own experience at a book signing last fall, get there early! If you attend, I hope you'll come back and share your experience with us!

A Random Friday Observation

The birds are back and force! I was surprised today while working outside at the number of birds in the trees, around the bird feeders, and just flying about.

As I looked up into the trees and saw the flock-o-birds, I was reminded of the Alfred Hitchcock thriller, "The Birds." The movie scared me to death as a child!

Now, I love the sound and song of all the birds in the nearby trees.

Run Tippi, run!

Beekman 1802 Featured in Vanity Fair

If life gives you goats - make goat's milk soap. If you're Dr. Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, that's exactly what you've done and you've captured the hearts (and skin) of many.

If you page through the May issue of Vanity Fair, you'll find Josh and Dr. Brent (and assorted goats) featured in the 'FanFair" beauty section which features their latest creation, Beekman 1802's After the Sun bar. Vanity Fair describes the bar as "..a cocktail of green tea, lavender, and aloe vera which rids he skin of sunscreen residue and controls inflammation from free radicals.." It sounds like this will be a 'must have' after a day in the garden or a day at the beach.

To get a behind the scenes glimpse of the Vanity Fair photo shoot, log into Beekman1802.com and check out Dr. Brent's blog. While you're there, make sure you click the 'shop' button and check out the full line of Beekman 1802 products. If you haven't tried the Beekman original soap, you're missing out! One bar will have to hooked and wanting more.

Craft Encyclopedia Hits #2 and More Books to Come!

Martha announced on her show today that "Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts" is #2 on the New York Times Bestseller List! It's a great accomplishment for a book that many thought would have little or no value. If there's an ounce of "crafter" in you - make sure you get this wonderfully informative and inspirational book.

On June 2nd, the next book is due, "Martha Stewart's Cupcakes." Cupcakes aren't just for elementary school parties anymore! With the response to the cupcake contest last year on marthastewart.com, this book is sure to be another best seller!

But wait, there's more!

Drop by your favorite bookstore in October (the 13th to be exact) for the release of "Martha Stewart's Dinner at Home," 52 quick menus for family and friends. There is little to no information on this book, but I can imagine from the title alone, we'll see it achieve high marks on the best seller list.

Martha Stewart Grocery Giveaway

When I logged into marthastewart.com yesterday, I noticed a giveaway I had not noticed before: the Martha Stewart Grocery Giveaway. One lucky person can win $5,000 in groceries! No purchase or on line subscription is necessary to win! Click here to enter today! The giveaway ends April 30, 2009.

Giving a Shout Out to my Peeps

I just thought this was a way cute picture.

Isaac Mizrahi to Host Call-in Show on Martha Stewart Living Radio

SIRIUS XM Radio announced today that Isaac Mizrahi, the internationally renowned designer, author, tastemaker and style icon, will host Isaac Mizrahi: Tell Me Everything, an exclusive five-week series of live call-in shows on Martha Stewart Living Radio.

Isaac Mizrahi: Tell Me Everything will kick off April 16, 2009 and will air from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm ET every Thursday through May 14, 2009 exclusively on Martha Stewart Living Radio, SIRIUS channel 112 and XM channel 157 as part of "The Best of SIRIUS" package. Mizrahi will host the show from SIRIUS XM Radio's studios in New York City.

Mizrahi, a twenty-year veteran of the fashion industry and recently appointed Creative Director of Liz Claiborne, will help people across the country discover and embrace their personal style, solve their fashion dilemmas and illustrate that style is attainable for anyone - no matter the budget. SIRIUS XM listeners are encouraged to call in and ask him questions during the live broadcasts at 866-675-6675.

On Isaac Mizrahi: Tell Me Everything, Mizrahi will draw upon his many passions and inspirations, from fashion to entertaining to style to food to pop culture to his beloved dogs and beyond. On every show, he will take calls from across the country and welcome designers, stylists, celebrities, and expert guests for style roundtable discussions. Show topics will include spring fashion, weddings, trends of today's style makers from Hollywood to the White House, how to entertain on a budget, and fun and fabulous tips for spring fashion.

"Isaac Mizrahi's singular style and charisma are the perfect ingredients for producing great radio, and great radio is always in fashion," said Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer, SIRIUS XM Radio. "SIRIUS XM will allow Isaac the freedom to explore a variety of topics with the millions of fans he has now, and the new ones he'll soon reach on Martha Stewart Living Radio."

"Tell Me Everything is going to be a lot of fun for me because I love talking to people," said Isaac Mizrahi. "We're going to have great guests and style roundtables, and I'm looking forward to taking calls from listeners across the country."

Isaac Mizrahi is the Creative Director for the Liz Claiborne brand, where he oversees design and marketing for the women's apparel and accessories line. As a leader in the design business for almost twenty years, he has been awarded four CFDA awards, including a special award in 1996 for the groundbreaking documentary UNZIPPED. Mizrahi's women's collection is available both domestically and internationally and can be seen in fashion magazines around the globe. In 2003, he revolutionized the industry with his partnership with Target, launching a collection of chic and stylish clothing and accessories for women. He worked with Perry Ellis and Calvin Klein before launching his own label in 1987. Mizrahi is an accomplished author and his most recent book is the critically acclaimed How to Have Style. He hosted his own series on the Oxygen and Style Networks and can currently be seen on his daily web series WATCHISAAC.COM. Mizrahi is the host of forthcoming Bravo TV series The Fashion Show. He has been featured in films and television shows including Sex & the City, Ugly Betty and Celebrity Jeopardy. When not working, Mizrahi enjoys spending time with his dog Harry and cooking.

Jeff and Martha : A Great Blog to Read

I've had the great pleasure of reading a good many blogs lately, with the development of the "Friends of Martha Blog Network." You can't help but be impressed with the vast amount of passion, talent, skill and creativity within the network member ranks.

Starting Monday, April 6th, the Friends of Martha Blog Network will be featuring a blog from the network. I'm thrilled that our panel of experts (okay, maybe not experts, but I'll show them some respect..) selected "Jeff and Martha - My Year of Cooking Fabulously" as the first feature blog.

I recently had the opportunity to e-interview blog owner Jeff Blumenkrantz about his attendance in Martha Stewart's Cooking School and about life as a blogger:



I love your blog and the idea of sharing your attendance at Martha’s Cooking School. What inspired you to share your experience?

Thanks! My inspiration comes from two places: Martha's amazing cookbook and Julie Powell's memoir (JULIE AND JULIA: MY YEAR OF COOKING DANGEROUSLY) about her experience blogging and cooking her way through Julia Child's landmark cookbook, MASTERING THE ART OF FRENCH COOKING. When I read Julie's book, I was just entering my Martha-obsessive stage, and I thought, if I'm going to "go there," why don't I REALLY "go there?" I was not a stranger to blogging, having produced two music-related podcasts (http://www.blumenkrantzsongbook.blogspot.com/ and http://www.fridayatfour.blogspot.com/), so I knew that the mere structure of it would keep me on track and guide me through.

What is your greatest reward in creating and maintaining your blog?

Already, I'm finding I'm more confident in the kitchen, I'm enjoying spending more time with my friends (cooking for them), I love that I'm inspiring others to cook, and I really appreciate the comments that people are leaving on my blog. And I'm only 18 days in as I write this, so I know there are other rewards yet to come!

What made you select the Cooking School book and not another book?

First of all, it had to be Martha, because she is such a beacon of excellence, and I'm a big fan. Secondly, it's a gorgeous book... seductive, even. I couldn't resist it from the first time I cracked it in the bookstore. And while Martha (and countless other chefs) have published scads of beautiful books, this one stuck out as covering a lot of ground, from very basic things (e.g. frying an egg) to very complicated things (e.g. cassoulet), and everything in between. I knew if I tackled this one, by the end of the year, I'd not only have developed a solid foundation as a cook but I would also have been on some wild adventures, had some enormous fiascoes and some surprising triumphs, and learned some really "good things."

How has Martha been an inspiration in your day to day life?

Martha inspires because she all about impeccability. She searches until she's found the best, the most beautiful, most delicious, safest, most elegant, most effective, most (fill in the superlative) ideas and things. How could one not be inspired by her dedication and commitment to excellence?

Blogging can be a full time job for some. How do you balance your life and blogging life?

Still figuring that one out. I always get VERY involved in my latest pet project. :-) Yet, I know that the more I give myself to do, the more I will get done. It all works out. Real answer: I sleep less.

When you're not cooking and blogging, are there hobbies, interests, or regular activities you participate in?

My life outside of cooking is very much centered around the performing arts. As a musical theatre composer, I spend a lot of time writing, concertizing, seeing shows, attending workshops, etc. I also see a lot of movies and concerts. And I have a new relationship (FNBF i.e. Fabulous New Boy Friend, as he's referred to in my blog), so I guess you could say he's a new hobby. :-) In fact, I think having someone to cook for definitely jump-started my late-breaking interest in cooking.

What can visitors to your blog expect?

They can expect that by the end of a year, I will have cooked every recipe and taken every lesson in the book, Martha Stewart's Cooking School, and they can expect a personal, literate account of my experiences doing so. They can also expect humor, honesty, thoroughness, anecdotes, and the occasional photo.

What advice do you have for up and coming bloggers?

It really depends on why they're blogging. Are they looking for readers and feedback? Or do they just want to write, and they don't care if anyone reads it? There seem to be many people who use blogging as a general journal of their lives, and I imagine it must be hard to attract readers if the entries cover so much ground. If they want readers, I'd say blog about something really specific. They will probably find a bigger audience the more specific they are. My other blogs were musical theatre-related, and people in that community would tell others about the blogs, and that magical viral thing happened. Frankly, I don't know much about the cooking community, so I could use some advice myself about how to develop an audience for this blog!

My only other advice is: It's really easy to commit to blogging about something, and then you lose interest or forget to do it and you find yourself not following through. I learned a lot about follow-through in the classes that I've taken at Landmark Education, and if there are people out there who are challenged in this area, I recommend those classes because they provide you with the tools to inspire you to finish projects that light you up. (http://www.landmarkeducation.com/

Martha Stewart Weddings - Spring 2009

My Spring '09 issue of Martha Stewart Weddings arrived this week and as always, it's a wonderful magazine to page through.

While geared toward the bride-to-be, I don't fit into the "Weddings" demographic (for a number of reasons); but there are so many great ideas in each issue, I can't resist reading it. From a variety of 'good things' that can be used in nearly any party situation, to incredible cake decorating ideas - I've found "Weddings" to be a great resource and inspiration.

The Spring 2009 issue is no exception. The cover itself caught my eye! (Diamonds are NOT only a girls best friend!) Who doesn't appreciate a nice diamond-ANYTHING!

Of particular interest was the feature on "Light and Lovely," with cakes, favors, flowers and more.

If you are not a subscriber to "Weddings," I do suggest that you pick up an issue and look through it. You'll find the Martha Stewart style you love - just use your imagination with the ideas. I think you'll be inspired too!

Spring and Summer Blooms at Macy's

New additions are 'blooming' in the Martha Stewart Collection, available only at Macy's. Here is a look at some of the new additions you'll find at your local Macy's or on Macys.com:

Summer entertaining is made easier with a wonderful assortment of melamine dinnerware, serveware, and acrylic drinkware. The brilliant colors and patterns will dress up your outdoor table without the worry of accidental breakage. ($7 - $100)

Food storage is a must-have for any kitchen. From innovative salad chillers (recently featured on the Martha Stewart Show) to lock tight lid storage containers, The Martha Stewart Collection Food Storage solutions save you time and save you money. ($4.99 - $29.99)

Antimicrobial fiberfill, allergen barrier fabric, and hypoallergenic filling help make the Martha Stewart Allergy Wise bedding collection the wise choice for those who suffer with allergies. Beautifully designed with your allergies in mind! ($40 - $220)

The Martha Stewart Luxury Bedding collection makes having a beautiful bed easy. With high quality linens, coverlets, shams and more, the Luxury Bedding collection is the perfect choice for those who want a beautiful bed to climb into every night. ($75 - $370)

Stylish, high quality, and elegant, the Martha Stewart Best Dressed Bedding sets give you the design options you need to create the beautiful bedroom you want. My personal favorite is the Cherry Blossom 24 piece Well-Decorated Bedroom set shown in the center picture. ($40 - $460)

Do you have a disorganized closet? Martha makes organizing your closet easy and beautiful with a great line of closet storage items. From storage boxes to padded hangers, Martha's closet storage keeps you neat, organized and your clothes ready to wear when you need them. ($14.99 - $29.99)

Martha's Trousseau mix and match casual china collection is the perfect choice when you're feeling casual yet elegant. With a selection of dinnerware and serveware, you can create a well dressed table that is sure to impress! The Trousseau casual china collection is part of the Martha Stewart Collection with Wedgwood. ($16 - $100)

Whatever, Martha! Renewed for Second Season

Tuesday, during “The Martha Stewart Show,” it was announced that Fine Living Network (FLN) has picked up a second season of Whatever, Martha!, the cable network's critically-acclaimed series featuring co-hosts Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Koppelman Hutt.

Commenting on the upcoming season, Martha Stewart said: "I created the show in the hopes that youthful fans of how-to would find Alexis and Jennifer’s take on our classics relatable and entertaining. Our rich library will provide them with a plethora of fabulous episodes that delight and inspire a new generation of fans."

During each episode of the wickedly funny half-hour, which Entertainment Weekly called "juicier than any steak the domestic diva ever cooked up," Jennifer and Alexis (who also host Whatever! With Alexis and Jennifer, a daily radio show on Martha Stewart Living Radio - Sirius Channel 112/XM 157) provide their personal take on vintage episodes of Martha Stewart Living. The unscripted format provides a platform for the co-hosts to showcase their colorful, witty and sometimes shocking opinions about Martha's performance, appearance and approach to projects with a no-holds-barred point of view. Production will begin in New York later this spring.

The MSLO-produced series, which was created by Martha Stewart after watching old episodes of Mystery Science Theatre, was a critical hit at launch, receiving raves from publications across the country including Entertainment Weekly, TV Guide, The New York Times, and New York Magazine among others.

Commenting on the series, FLN General Manager Chad Youngblood said: “This series has outperformed our expectations and has developed a passionate following.” He added: “We are very excited to bring FLN viewers another season of Whatever, Martha!”

“Whatever,Martha!” is a production of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia in association with Fine Living Network. Executive Producers are Martha Stewart and Lynn Sadofsky. Chad Youngblood and Kent Takano are Executives in Charge of Production for Fine Living Network.