Too simple?

My own mother was recently contemplating Martha Stewart over on her blog - simplehappyhome - and as a dutiful daughter and fan, I had to weigh in.

Basically, I appreciate the natural hostessing abilities that Martha exudes and admire her extensive knowledge of cornish hens, but I don't think I'd want to join her on vacation. And I think most of the stuff I like best from her magazine - easy, practical, cheap craft ideas - are generated by her staff and not her stodgy ol' self. (No offense, Marty, I'm sure you're totally cool with your peers, who also summer in the Hamptons and adore linen pants.)

But it got me thinking about her mag, which I enjoy but don't always treasure. Which got me thinking about another mag that I always think I love but then find myself tossing aside after a quick 15-minute run through. Any guesses? It's Real Simple. I've never seen a magazine, much less one that prides itself on simplicity, waste so much page space on nothing. I mean, it makes a great reference guide, but unless I happen to be shopping for bedding, I don't want a 10-page spread on the best pillow out there. Isn't brevity a form of simplicity?

I do like their recipes, and I'm all about the reader tips. But you're talking to someone who typically has to begin a magazine by reading every letter to the editor and cannot come up for air until each article has been read in order from front to back. I blame my father for the compulsive behavior, but nonetheless it makes for very thorough and enjoyable reading. A People magazine takes a good hour of my time.

But the other day I got a complimentary issue of Real Simple and was done in less than 10 minutes with rarely more than a glance at the pictures.

What gives? Is it just me or is the magazine lacking in substance?

And are there any great home magazines out there? Because what I really want are cheap, easy design ideas and non-crafty craft projects.

Any suggestions?