It would be hard to pinpoint just one thing I love about my work. But if pushed, I think I could say stepping into a house filled with an owner's love for the place they call home looms large. As a designer, I’ve worked on many spectacular projects where the décor stood out and enhanced the space with eye-catching appeal. But, as editor-in-chief of a magazine, I understand that if a home can’t tell its owner’s story, then there really isn’t much to look at.
It's safe to say that if we’ve learned anything these past few years, it’s that there is no place like home. Sure, we can also say that too much of a good thing might be a little too much, however, it’s hard to argue with the luxurious feeling of walking into a space that feels comfortably your own.
Within the pages of the Holiday & Winter issue, you’ll find people like Trie and Shean Donovan who made their way back to their roots (well, hers), but he’s staking claim too on a farm brimming with land and animals that make them feel right at home after years of relocating. We also tour one of this year’s Homes for the Holidays houses to get a sense of what sort of space offers respite for two busy physicians.
Features like those mentioned above might take top billing for what makes me love my job most. Throw in the chance to showcase talented Ottawans such as Inuit artist Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona, physician-turned-author Hana Alazem, and entrepreneur Lily Bond, my enthusiasm heightens. Of course, my heart will always be with people like Stuntman Stu, who have worked hard to overcome challenges and continue to share their generous spirit with the community.
I am forever grateful for a job that allows us to showcase what makes Canada’s capital a special place to work and live. Look for our local love sticker to find products created in Ottawa as you peruse the plethora of gifts throughout this issue.
See you in the spring with our next issue,
Merry
Merry's Must Reads
The White Hare, Jane Johnson
A home in Cornwall’s White Valley is purchased to host glitzy parties, but the women who bought it get far more than they bargained for when an enchanting white hare enters their lives.
We Spread, Iain Reid
An artist finds herself in a long-term care facility where the days begin to blur, and a feeling of unravelling overtakes her. She wonders if it’s the effects of aging or something else going on.
Fairy Tale, Stephen King
A boy — who carries the load of a grief-stricken father — and his found dog are entrusted with a secret world where good is pitted against evil.
It Starts With Us, Colleen Hoover
A woman is reunited with her first love, but it’s complicated, given that he’s the last guy her ex-husband wants in his ex-wife and daughter’s lives.
A Merry Little Meet Cute, Julie Murphy & Sierra Simone
A plus-size adult film star is cast in a movie for the wholesome Hope Channel, and she’s challenged to
keep the other side of her career a secret, but it might be worthwhile given that her teen crush has been cast next to her.
Talk Santa To Me, Linda Urban
For YA readers and Hallmark fans. Francie hopes to save her family’s holiday-themed store, kiss the guy from the tree lot next door and buy a car, all in one season.
All I Want For Christmas, Maggie Knox
A Rom-Com full of fake dating fun about two singers with Nashville dreams forced into a duet on and off stage.
Mary Taggart
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