New York, NY -- Martha Stewart's recent conviction has touched her in ways no one could have ever imagined.

"US Weekly" editor Carolyn Schaefer says ever since Stewart heard the guilty verdict, she's actually let her guard down and dropped her cold persona.

Stewart was recently seen at an Italian restaurant in New York City actually "hugging strangers" who were offering support.

The public support seems to have helped Stewart's morale but it isn't helping her prepare for prison life.

Schaefer says Stewart is convinced the whole thing will still blow over and has blinders to the prospect of facing hard time.

One example of how Stewart isn't letting the verdict eat at her: Her first night after the trial ended, she spent a quiet evening in her home cooking a homey shrimp and rice dish.

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