A sense of humour.

"And I just have one little joke because, despite what you all might think, I do have a sense of humor. And, I was walking in front of the General Motors Building the other day. And there were a group of very well-dressed businessmen standing outside. And they looked at me, recognized me, and said, 'Oh, she's out already.' Well, I hope that my time goes as fast as that." (Martha Stewart on September 15, 2004, at a press conference announcing she will serve the she was sentenced to while her appeal proceeds.)

I didn't post about this, earlier this week, when Ms. Stewart announced she would seek to serve her sentence as soon as possible. I can only imagine how difficult this decision was for her, and how challenging the next few months will be. But, as she said, it's important to get this part of the process over with. Her appeal might not be heard until well-into next year. That's a long time for uncertainty to keep simmering, for both her, her family, and her company.

She and her lawyers made it clear that they will proceed with the appeal. Her lead attorney, a former Solicitor General of the United States, has pointed out that her claims are strong. It would be painfully ironic to have her conviction thrown out, no doubt, after she completes her sentence. But, I'm sure, nonetheless a welcome development in what so far has been one of the most bizarre displays of "justice" in America in quite some time.