Hello Coast Mountain Friends,
For the 38th time in Coast Mountain history, autumn wrapped up the long days of kayaking season, and let us turn attention to other parts of this life at the edge of the wild. By December, our outdoor activities need to fit in the meagre 6 hours of daylight, and now, with cold and snow (finally) in the forecast, it’s time to hibernate. We’re
turning to inside projects – and the fun of year–end festivities with community friends and family! Now we get to enjoy warmth of the wood fire and plenty of light supplied by our hydroelectric system that’s running full-on from rainy days that turned the creek from a trickle to a torrent.
Our fall was busy. A special highlight was daughter Emily’s September wedding that was delightful in every way. Another pleasure was our road trip to Nelson, full of fall colours and the fun of time with Albert and Koda (6) and Shiloh (4). Back at home, our trusty old boat Chico Mendes provided Ralph one last monumental adventure (a sinking story for later) and a bigger-than-expected task delivering it to ABC Recycling in Campbell River. Lannie got the harvest put by and the garden put to bed. Ralph rebuilt the powerhouse. Our faithful Cedar dog added love and enthusiasm to every day.
Those of you who have visited recently may have heard about our relationship with χʷɛmaɬku (Homalco) First Nation. We live and work on their traditional territory and our island community is gladly and actively supporting χʷɛmaɬku’s return to the land. Growing friendships and real reconciliation are evident in events and joint projects. On one special day χʷɛmaɬku youth shared school time at Surge Narrows Elementary and we all got to learn some words in their native language, ayʔaǰuθɛm (Ayajeuthem). χʷɛmaɬku Elders also showed us how to weave cedar bark, and granted a glimpse of their past with stories and spirit passed down since time immemorial.
Surge Narrows community is inspired to outgrow our history of hosting visiting school classes in antiquated buildings – and we’re planning a new purpose-built classroom and dorm facility. We are thrilled that χʷɛmaɬku First Nation will join this effort, and excited that the new Youth Education Centre will be modelled to resemble a traditional Coast Salish Long House. You will hear more about this!
As you probably know, we (Kellers) are passionate about protecting forests. In the last several years, we’ve introduced the Surge Narrows Community Association, Xwemalhkwu Nation, and Wilderness International – and this team is right now preparing an offer to purchase two forest tenures covering 5600 acres on Read Island. This long effort and lofty goal are almost tangible but still uncertain, so we’re holding our breath along with our hopes.
We are also indulging in merriment as we enjoy Christmas traditions, the Solstice and brighter days, music and food and blackberry wine. And connecting with friends, however that happens.
From our cozy home on the shores of Evans Bay, we send our very best wishes for your holiday season –and for 2026 we wish you good health, happiness and peace.
Warm Cheers from Ralph and Lannie
P.S. Albert has taken the helm on Coast Mountain activities – and we’re also still here: on the land, in the kitchen, driving the boat and helping to provide the warm welcome for CME guests. Maybe we’ll connect in 2026!