Shortly after we were engaged, I was reading a Sunday edition of The NY Times and there was an interesting article about a new cookbook author named, Martha Stewart. It was 1987. I intently read either a book review or an article about Martha herself. The next week, after school, I headed over to Boarders Books to order or buy her book, mentioned in the article, Martha Stewart’s ENTERTAINING. I believe they had to order the book and when I finally did get it, I read it cover to cover in one seating. There were PBS Specials on Thanksgiving and Christmas, more books, Pies and Tarts and , Quick Cook, More Quick Cooks, Christmas the book, a line of home goods at K-Mart and eventually a premier issued of the bi-monthly magazine, Martha Stewart LIVING. Martha was everywhere and if you were a fan, like me, you just couldn’t get enough of her. If she appeared on The Today Show, you taped it. Eventually she had her own show and her Russian mother, also named Martha made appearances to give Martha her thoughts on a recipe. Martha made a huge splash on pop culture and took homemaking and all chores domestically to an all new high…
Over the years there have been several interviews, book, biographies and articles on Martha. She gets credit for building an empire and influencing so many in the kitchen. Martha is a smart businesswoman, a creative genius and knows how to delegate and surround herself with the most talented of people. Most of what she has done is extremely positive…
The book that started it all, Entertaining and the first issue of Martha Stewart Living magazine.
The only caveat that I can say on Martha is that because she has set the bar so high in the domestic arts, some feel that if they cannot perform at the same level that Martha operates, they are inadequate. Not so. Most definitely, NOT SO. Martha made home keeping ‘in fashion’ and she got a lot of good things going. When Martha Stewart entered the magazine market, she upped every other home magazine’s game. If you do a search of the initial issues of LIVING, you’ll see what I mean, Martha made her mark and she upped everyone’s game. Trailblazers do that. The competition can be angry and pout or they can take some some notes and join the race. Competition can be a healthy thing or it can get the best of you if you are not mindful of how it affects you. Martha has worked a lifetime to achieve what she has. He accomplishments have come at a price. She endured a trial and jail time. In typical Martha Stewart form, she endured the legal system and jail time and came out on the other side and continued to grow her business empire.
Thanksgiving, Christmas or any other holiday is the celebration YOU make it. I write about his is a chapter near the end of my book. Every family has their own traditions and rituals and they should celebrate in a way that makes each person around their table feel welcome and comfortable. If pulling out your finest linens and china is your thing, go for it. Some people are like Martha and getting out grandmother’s Christmas dishes is just as much a ritual as the egg nog or turkey. This may be a custom that has been celebrated as long as they can remember and brings back the sweetest of memories for those gathered. If drinks at one neighbors and appetizers followed by a progressive dinner of Friendgiving in your new neighborhood when Dad has to work the weekend when the family moves to a new community, embrace the new and the news friends, fondly remembering and praying for those family members celebrating with in-laws and unable to make the journey to you.
Life can be full of unexpected twists and turns. Everyday we are here with those we love is a gift. The further along the path we get, or at least for me, I realize that to have family and dear friends to gather around a table with is something to treasure. It’s easier as we get older to let things go, remember the reason for the seasons, embrace those who are there and don’t make those who are unable to feel bad. Imagine how you wish for the holiday to be and make it happen. If it’s carry out, homemade, store bought, do what you feel is right for you and those you will gather with…and make it a Great Day ❤️
