6 E D I T O R’ S L E T T E R
THE OLDER I GET, the more I’m convinced that I won the lottery when it comes to mothers. My mom has been my constant support, not only cooking for me, cleaning for me, and containing herself during my most trying teen years, but teaching me countless lessons outside of school—from the basics (“use good butter”) to master-class material (“if in doubt, do without” when shopping for literally anything). In her soft and subtle way, she’s always pushed me to go out into the world and try new things. She’s a doer through and through. The issue in your hands has a similar roll-up-your-sleeves, can-do spirit. It’s filled with DIY ideas both big and small to help you design the life you want, whether you’re after more delicious meals, a home with character, or a flower garden that makes you smile. Regardless of your skill set, you’ll find something you can do, and that, in itself, would make Mom proud.
Elizabeth Graves Editor in Chief
LIVING IN MY LIFE
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Here, just a handful of ideas from our pages that I look forward to enlisting.
This cake is sure to delight my son (shown above) on his birthday. We’ll make the confetti yellow and orange: constructiontruck colors.
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The new book Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water goes inside the unique retreats that surfers call home.
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My mom always says, “I don’t need anything.” But I have very sweet memories of her—and her best friends—devouring these soft salted caramels at my wedding, so I know she’ll want these come Mother’s Day.
Sarah K. Benning’s modern embroidery designs caught my eye on Instagram. After learning about her approach, I will try my hand at what I once thought seemed too tricky.
Let’s stay in touch! Email me at elizabeth@marthastewart.com
@ebgraves
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So many times I’ve bought fresh parsley for a recipe, only to let the leftovers wane. This month’s Healthy Appetite offers more delicious ways to use it all up, including a refreshing smoothie.
LI Z BA N FI EL D (P O RT R AIT ); PE T ER A R D ITO (B OX , B O O K ); C O U RT ESY O F SA R A H K . B EN N I N G (EM B RO I D ERY ); A R M A N D O R A FA EL (S M O OT H I E ); N G O C M I N H N G O (CA K E )
LET’S DO THIS