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Much like your children, I don’t think you’re supposed to have a favourite feature as editor, but for this issue, Sarah Gill’s reminder of the power and connection of storytelling, from page 80, might be mine. Not least because it’s been beautifully illustrated by Maiden Moose, but it feels like it encompasses so much of what we wanted to say with this issue: of gathering round the hearth, lights flickering in the eyes of the ones you love, that feeling of the generosity and warmth of community in the depths of winter.
In the same spirit, Roe McDermott writes of finding family in our friends on page 92, especially relevant during the festive period when there is so much emphasis on familial bonds: it’s a reminder that some of our most transformative relationships are with those we choose. Meanwhile, we pull up a chair to the table of four Irish chefs as they prepare to entertain, whipping up delightfully fuss-free platters and veggie showstoppers to old favourites and decadent treats. Having travelled across the West of Ireland for this one, I can attest that everything tasted even better than it looks – and it looks good, from page 136.
Meanwhile, Jennifer McShane convinces us to curl up with a good book, selecting her favourite reads of the year, plus the ones she’s already got on preorder for 2025, from page 76. And if you didn’t already want to get to Japan, Laura George will have you booking flights, and not just for cherry blossom season, from page 170.
Finally, this letter is, as always, the last slice of copy I jot down for the issue, but it also marks my last piece of writing for some time as I prepare to totter off on maternity leave. It’s rare to find a job that you find both a passion in and good friends to do it with, but I have found both working alongside Megan and Marlene. Left in their capable hands, as well as with an incoming editor in the shape of the lovely Ciara Elliott (who you can learn a little more about on page 23), I’m already looking forward to hearing the letterbox flap open in February to see what they’ve been up to.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we did putting it together.
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