Season’s greetings

From the editor ~ November/December 2024

Dear readers,

Another holiday season is upon us, and this issue highlights how community and companionship make this time of year especially bright. Whether hosting a Friendsgiving gathering, connecting with new friends though a fiber arts group, or dusting off the Christmas ornaments to decorate the family tree, there are many ways to be with loved ones this season.

Our cover story spotlights a particular kind of loved one: our pets.

A few winters ago, I found myself in need of some company—it was January 2021, and the pandemic was persisting in keeping people apart, and I had reached my limit. One day, I found myself scrolling on the Potter League’s pet adoption page and spotted a photo of a cat named Sweeney. His bio described him as “the best distraction you’ll ever meet.” I was intrigued and made an appointment to meet him. In person, he was very tiny and very sweet. I was smitten. The next afternoon, Sweeney—now Simon—was exploring a space that has come to be our shared home. (As I write this, Simon is sleeping on the couch behind me, peacefully curled up on a blanket.)

Everyone loves Simon, a former stray found on the streets of Newport, who was 7-ish then and is closer to 10 now. As it turns out, Simon is indeed a great distraction—he always wants to be in my lap or on my pillow or somewhere nearby. He has officially become my companion in solitude and the main subject of my camera roll. To say I am grateful for Simon’s company is an understatement. Somehow, our paths crossed, and both our lives improved.

That sort of serendipity is embedded in the spirit of the Potter League for Animals, where they strive to match pets and people all year long, and where the gift of companionship keeps on giving. Read more about what our local animal shelter is doing to support the community on page 22.

In keeping with the spirit of connection, we have a story on the art of gathering, and all the things that go into planning the perfect event—from invitations to flowers, creating table settings and planning menus, to keeping people entertained and contented, there is lots to consider. We also venture over to Blithewold in Bristol, where Christmas is on full display and the theme of the season explores the Van Wickle family’s interactions with the surrounding community at the turn of the 20th Century. And, for the sort of community that brings people together as the days get darker, we visit a few knitting—and needlepoint—circles, which are having a bit of a moment.

Last but certainly not least, there is our profile subject, Josy Wright. The Jamestown-based printmaker’s work is the subject of a retrospective at the Jamestown Arts Center this month. At the age of 95, Josy is still in her studio every day, working on one project or another, which I think is something we can all aspire to—cheers to Josy and her enduring creative spirit.

On that note, I, along with the Newport Life team, wish you a very happy and merry holiday season!

Until January,

Helena

Managing Editor

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