Office neatness, and a dinner hosted by People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive
UPDATE: Today on my show I responded to this Gawker.com article
I just want to say that this Gawker.com article is a misrepresentation of what actually was discussed within our offices. The list of pens is an assortment of what our company will provide our employees with at our expense. We never stated that other pens were not allowed to be used. In these tough economic times, harmony is essential within the working environment. I must also inform you that we use a great assortment of writing implements from the Martha Stewart crafts line available at Michael's Crafts and Walmart.Â
Last Thursday, I attended a dinner in New York City, celebrating the preview exhibit of Nomad Two Worlds, featuring artwork created by Indigenous Australian artists. The show is on display from January 22 – 29 at the Urban Zen Center at the Stephan Weiss Studio, founded by Donna Karan, located at 711 Greenwich Street in Greenwich Village. The show was created by famed Australian photographer, Russell James and was promoted by my friend, Lisa Fox, who is a dedicated supporter of Australian culture and arts. Our hosts for the evening were Hugh and Deborra-Lee Jackman. To find out more about this exhibit and to see a fascinating video, please visit Nomadtwoworlds.
And to see and learn even more about Australia, don’t forget about the fantastic movie, Australia, starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, which takes place in northern Australia at the beginning of World War II. Kidman plays an English aristocrat who inherits an enormous cattle ranch. In order to save it from an English plot to take it over, she enlists the help of Jackman, who plays a rough-hewn stock-man. Together, they drive the cattle across hundreds of rugged miles, still experiencing bombings and other atrocities. It’s a very exciting movie, shedding insight into Aboriginal life and the inhumane rulings of Australian law.
Apologies! This image gallery is no longer available.
(CORRECTION)
I don't know, Martha, that Mr. Ernst Lieb is a pretty cute guy! Wonderful smile
Posted by: MMC in San Diego | January 26th, 2009 at 6:39 pm
Martha,
The question is who do you think is the sexiest man alive hmmmmm?
Pam from California
Posted by: Pam From California | January 26th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Hi Martha, I am absolutely amazed at the number and variety of events that you attend and share with all of us, your devoted fans. Each one is very special and really fun to attend vicariously. The photos and captions are fantastic. For some reason, security I guess, I was unable to view the website you highlighted. I did enjoy your photos and captions of this event, especially the delicious food and the Australians involved in this exhibit. Thanks so much for sharing. Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | January 26th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
So happy to see you have an interest in Aussie culture- and posted on our national day no less! We love you here- please come back for another visit!
Posted by: KJ | January 26th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Looks like fun, although not so sure about his new facial hair. But he sure is cute
Posted by: claudine | January 26th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
I was lucky enough to buy a piece of Australian art whilst in Australia last October, it shows woman meeting together around a camp fire and is made up of dots and lines - I love it.
I also love Hugh Jackman, I swooned when I saw 'Australia'. How wonderful to be able to meet him!
Pru
Posted by: Pru | January 26th, 2009 at 10:40 pm
Go the Aussies - yay! Very appropriate posting Martha - on Australia Day (January 26) Well done to Lisa, Hugh, Deborah-Lee and all the other expats spreading the word of our lucky country's formidable offerings to the world!
Posted by: Liss | January 26th, 2009 at 11:34 pm
Greentings from Sydney.
Thanks Martha for showing a spotlight on our wonderful indigenous art. Australian aborigines are amoungst the worlds oldest peoples, who have lived for many thousands of years on the worlds oldest continent. Their art is unique and breathtaking. I hope this will help show that Australia and her people have far more to offer than just Fosters beer, Paul Hogan and shrimp (we call them prawns) on the barbie.
Now that's not to say we aren't a laid back, fun bunch of people who know not to take ourselves too seriously. Save me from precious drongos!
Hope you all manage to keep yourselves warm, we're experiencing many days of 40+ (celcius) weather here. Thank god for our beaches!
see ya round like a risole,
Fe
Posted by: Miss Fe | January 26th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
Love your blog! check out my blog!
Posted by: Emma | January 27th, 2009 at 2:03 am
What a great picture of you and Mr. Jackman!
It sounds like it was a very nice evening.
(Love your scarf by the way)
Posted by: Maureen | January 27th, 2009 at 2:10 am
Martha, You look wonderful and refreshed. I don't know if you have had anything done, nor do I care, but I just thought I would tell you that you still got it.
Posted by: Paul Redd | January 27th, 2009 at 4:57 am
Hi Martha, Thank you so much for adjusting the link to the video of the preview of Nomad Two Worlds. I am in awe of what the Australian people have accomplished in their relationship with the Aboriginies. I can only imagine how fascinating the exhibit would be. Kudos to all involved! Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | January 27th, 2009 at 5:11 am
Dear Martha,
You and Hugh are both color coordinated and it makes for a lovely photo.
Posted by: Linda Crispell | January 27th, 2009 at 5:32 am
The apology by Parliament to the aborigines was a good thing. I wish I could see the exhibit at the Stephan Weiss Studio even if it is only a prelude to all their other plans in the works such as the full length movie as well as the music and the art of this culture. I hope they raise millions in their efforts to make people aware of this particular need for change. I am really curious about this now and plan to see the movie Australia probably when it comes out on DVD if it isn’t already. Thanks for bringing this to our attention in this blog. Trish
P.S. Glad to hear you addressed that Gawker article but I won’t hear your response until 1:00 p.m. I wasn’t really pleased with some of the idiotic comments that were posted and decided the full story wasn’t reported.
Posted by: Trish | January 27th, 2009 at 5:45 am
Not having too much to say today, due to not knowing much about your blog subject, I do have to say, however, that, like Jan's comment earlier and many others', we do get to meet new people and experience new adventures...how?...vicariously thru you and your blog, Martha - you ARE generous with your offerings of your personal life, and honestly, I wouldn't know about alot of things (in the social circles) if I didn't tune in daily to your 'commentary'! (I L-O-V-E it!!) It's a Martha-must-have, basically!
My little Edgar =^..^= says good mrrrowning, Martha, on this snowy day (yes, Maryland is getting its first major snow event!) He is sick and we don't know what's wrong...he has wasted away from 17 lbs down to about 9, but, praise the Lord, his appetite is still good. (I'm obviously thinking of him this morning...I just had to share...)
You hear this all the time, but thank you for 'taking us along' on your journeys...they're fun, informative and educational, and invoke a little pick-me-up and dreaming now-n-then...
=^..^=
"There will never be another now ~ I'll make the most of today. There will never be another me ~ I'll make the most of myself."--Anonymous
Posted by: Cindy Bricker | January 27th, 2009 at 5:53 am
Martha...you look so very pretty out on the town! Some charming guests to dine with that's for certain.
Posted by: Sherey | January 27th, 2009 at 6:59 am
So whats wrong with a nice tidy office? The place I work at should take your lead!
Posted by: ms michelle | January 27th, 2009 at 7:07 am
Re: Office Neatness
As an employee of a company that has implemented the "5-S program," I truly appreciate the benefit of a tidy office environment. Even as a child I was taught "A place for everything and everything in it's place."
Whether it is the office, the kitchen, or my craft/art studio, I am more creative and productive in a neat environment. Plus,it is much easier to clean when everything is stowed in its proper location at the end of the day or project.
There will always be those who find fault with the plans of others.
Posted by: Sherry Yeager | January 27th, 2009 at 7:52 am
I agree whole-heartedly with your comments about the need to build and create rather than diminish and demean. The poster on gawker.com does not seem to have learned that important life lesson. Your response handled the gawker.com issue with aplomb. Well done.
Posted by: bev wright | January 27th, 2009 at 9:52 am
While all of dinners out lately look very tasty, I don't know how you can follow your own advice in your Body and Soul challenge. I think it's interesting that you try to promote eating a healthy meal and (recently) demonstrating lower cost at-home meals (during these tough economic times), but yet you're going out for fancy dinners. Please follow your own advice--do as I say, not as I do--mentality.
Posted by: N | January 27th, 2009 at 11:37 am
I have to say I really am not a fan of sites like Gawker. It's like that malicious girl in high school who would take pleasure in trying to create trouble for others by cooking up schemes. Sure it's a easy way to make a quick buck, but I guess I'm more interested in living a life of actual substance and making a difference in people's lives.
I thought the way you addressed it on the show today was the exact right thing to do. People are always so quick to judge before they've got all the facts, and sadly in the today's world people seem to care very little about cold hard facts.
In the meantime, I hope you are able to find out who in the company would allow someone to wrongly assume something about a place they should have the best interest in. I don't think it's somebody I would want to be riding next to in the car anytime soon
Posted by: Kari | January 27th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
To N:
I bet there is nothing that Martha would like more than to just go home after a long day of taping shows and attending meetings. But she has friends who like her get involved with the needs of other people by hosting galas to raise money for soup kitchens, such as Alice Waters did the day before Inauguration Day or maybe another friend is trying to raise money so the rest of us can look at nice things in a Folk Art Museum. Martha seems to always be there when her friends need her and if that means yet another "fancy dinner”, is she suppose to decline because she’s on a diet? Some of those meals call for a sizable donation for a cause so what’s wrong with having a taste and enjoying the company of nice people? I noticed some healthy salads among the offerings which I would say are in sync with the Body + Soul Challenge. I can only think Martha is doing what she says because when she doesn’t, she says so. She is also very good at having just a little taste. Trish
Posted by: Trish | January 27th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Hugh Jackman might be the sexiest man alive if he would lose the mutton chops!! UGH!
Posted by: Charlotte K | January 27th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
Hi Martha! Your blog is my daily electronic "coffee break" and I love to read about your adventures.
I'm sorry about the blog. It seems that there are always people who will have something negative to say about others.
In the future, my advice is to ignore these people. You just gave them free publicity, which they don't deserve. I hadn't heard about this blog until I read about it on yours. Next time, ignore them.
Posted by: Chris | January 27th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
You know the little Gawker kids secretly love and adore you and worship the ground that you walk on, they just won't tell you that. (They have a whole section dedicated to Martha alone.) They harass you praying that you will notice them.
Now of course their perfect, elegant Queen (you) has responded to them and that has sent them into another tizzy. It's the best thing to happen to them. Expect the snarkfest from them to continue.
Posted by: Sonya | January 27th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Re: New Offices and new rules
Martha,
I just watched your show from today and came over here to post my thoughts.
I am pleased you did explain on your show and address this in your own words to us and no you didn't have to do so.
Unlike your employees,family and friends, I am not privy to inside information about your company nor your private life so what I read, see or hear on the radio or through the internet, newspapers, whatever things about you appear I have nothing else to go by but what is reported - fairly or unfairly about you.
I don't know you but your life, show, and company are of interest to me so naturally when I see or read something about you it is nice to know what is true or not. why do you think I am here reading your blog and responding regularly?
I am glad that at times you do come forward and set the record straight, maybe it isn't always the wisest thing to do but it can't hurt to try and nip it in the bud before it gets way out of hand. I saw this story posted on Google alerts and Yahoo alerts beginning on Sunday evening and all day yesterday & other bloggers were picking it up and posting it, running with it.
I can think for myself and often can decide what is really true and what is far fetched. I know it must be hard for you to read and hear things about you and not be able to defend yourself.
Martha I believed the CEO email, the photos and the information listed, I am guilty of thinking this is true and happening at MSLO new offices.
I am sorry but I am pleased you had your say.
Pam from California
Posted by: Pam From California | January 27th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Hi, Martha,
Thanks for taking us along to Nomad Two Worlds and giving us a glimpse of Austrailia. I have learned so much once again.
You handled the Gawker.com article very well.
Thanks again.
Kathy
Posted by: Kathy | January 28th, 2009 at 12:56 am
Obviously someone never learned not to "bite the hand that feeds them". In this economy you should be grateful you have a job. Martha seems pretty open to ideas. Perhaps suggesting your ideas instead of a cowardly posting on a gossip blog would be more appropriate. Shame on you.
Posted by: Cathy | January 28th, 2009 at 5:26 am
Martha,
I agree whole heartedly (is that even a word?), I agree 1000% with you, Kari, Sherry, bev.
Posted by: Margie | January 28th, 2009 at 5:32 am
I appreciated how you stood up for yourself and the cost saving measures at MSO in the "great pen debacle" as we affectionately call it at home. Everyone, whether as individuals or corporate representatives needs to help each other and work together.
We are all so tired of "these economic times" and I long for the good ole days and the "good things" of the past. The piece on stress management yesterday was spot on. Let's keep talking about all the positive changes we are making to focus our lives on what's most important.
Thanks Martha for sharing and caring.
Posted by: Laura | January 28th, 2009 at 7:49 am
All I can say is, a lot of people would dearly love to work for Martha Stewart. Whoever is complaining should be glad they have a job, let alone one working in a neat, attractive environment for one of the most stylish women in the world!
Posted by: Patia | January 28th, 2009 at 8:20 am
Having pre-recorded yesterday's (Tuesday's) show to watch later in the evening (with Edgar =^..^= [and we did!] ), and from alreading reading this blog currently on Tuesday during the day, I was prepared to view your address regarding the post on gawker.com. Martha, you handled it impeccably! - not in a nasty manner whatsoever, but with your usual grace (and I perceived somewhat humor [in disbelief] in your overall tone).
I have worked at only two employers in my working career - continuous employment since I was 17 years old - both, with longevity, thus resulting in seniority, and both from which I suffered position eliminations. I realize we now work in a new age, where it is acceptable to job-hop and longevity is no longer a value factor, but obviously this disloyalty in your employee, Martha - well, it's a breach of trust, basically. This employee's sins will find them out eventually, and hopefully your HR department will be able to properly reprimand this employee, either through written documentation in their employee file and/or dismissal. These habits usually re-surface in this type of behaviour.
Unemployment is currently at it's all-time high, and EVERYONE should be thankful for gainful employment, as the alternatives "ain't much fun"! Been there! Done that! (I could be doing that again! - so could you, fellow readers...the rug gets pulled out from underneath you, when you least expect it!) Remember, too, (fellow readers), to consider your WHOLE compensation package that your employer offers when you feel like kavetching...it's not just your salary (hourly/salaried) but medical/dental/vision benefits, vacation/sick leave entitlement time, 401-K plans and company matches, tuition reimbursement...it all adds up! We've all fallen prey to the daily drudgery mentality and burnout, but in hindsight...BE YE GLAD!
Okay, I'm done, for now...(Schwhew!)
=^..^=
"Look for the good ~ Challenge the bad ~ Enjoy most of your days ~ Never forget to be glad."
Posted by: Cindy Bricker | January 28th, 2009 at 8:27 am
grace under pressure Martha makes you stand out bravo
Posted by: margaret sisson | January 28th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Your shows and mags, books, etc are so very relaxing. I love the cooking, gardening, hosting,art/crafts and I especially love that you deal with the issues of antiques and your love of animals. And everyone knows how sweet Martha Stwarts pets are, you don't even have to meet them to know that. Because we all know animals rule, like little and big earth-angels. Bye for now all and keep it up Martha we all can't get it enough. My best, to all, Naomi Paulette
Posted by: Naomi Hamm | January 28th, 2009 at 3:09 pm
Gosh - people can be so snarky. What a silly waste of someone's time to write something so mean and petty about you.
I loved your new kitty's Houdini like skills on your show a few weeks ago - hilarious! All your new animals are adorable.
Have a great weekend.
Posted by: Lydia | January 29th, 2009 at 2:36 am
Didn't know where else to post this but found the definition of gusset and gore on Google. I knew what a gusset was, (OH how I hated them when I took home ec.) but was hazy on the gore.
Gore: Vertical division within a garment, usually tapered panels, narrower at the upper edge than the lower edge, seamed together to add fullness to a garment. May be functional or decorative.
Gusset Pieces of fabric set into a seam or seam intersection to add shape and fullness to a garment. Often found at the underarm and crotch.
Posted by: Sheila DiUlio | January 29th, 2009 at 11:16 am
You are glowing.. I think you are the sexiest woman alive.. And I am straight.
xooxxo Laura
Posted by: laura dellaporta | January 29th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
HI Martha thank you for yet again allowing us to share in your life. You are obviously a fan of all things Australian which I can assure you is reciprocated...why not organise a fabulous book tour with all your most recent publications for all your fans in Australia - this would obviously only be an option when your extremely busy schedule would allow. You're fantastic.....XOXOXO Stefania.
Posted by: Stefania | February 1st, 2009 at 2:29 am
Hi, cool site, good writing
Posted by: Lertcruth | February 8th, 2009 at 11:17 pm
You lucky lady......he is for sure a handsome man. I have watched him on hero's and loved his face than. As always thanks for sharing your adventures, as many of us won't ever experience them without you. God Bless
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Wow! what an idea ! What a concept ! Beautiful .. Amazing …
Posted by: Extenze | August 3rd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
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