January 2026 Newsletter
As I look ahead to 2026 and wonder what may be in store, I’ve been reminded to slow down and appreciate the simple things: the beauty of where I live, the creatures I share it with, and the joy of writing. Spoiler alert for any who haven’t read Book 2 yet: despite being written and conceived over a decade ago, many of the events Kelly and crew face on his return to Earth are eerily prescient. ‘Nuf said.
Happy New Year to everyone, whenever and wherever you may be. I hope the holiday season was as restful for you as it was for this awesome little creature.
One of the amazing gems on Vancouver Island is the Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, which sits adjacent to the crystal clear waters of Horne Lake, a mere 68 kilometres south of Comox.
It was here that I began my research on caves and caving to set the stage for Kelly’s adventures on Jord. The first thing I learned when I stepped into one of the many cave openings, was that I was never meant to be a caver. I managed to get ten metres inside, maybe less, before I turned around and found the sun. It was a good start. It set my imagination on overdrive, picturing the potential challenges and dangers Kelly could encounter. For those who are braver, and more adventurous, than me, explore the Parks website, included below, or spend a few days camping, hiking and maybe taking a guided tour. Who knows what worlds it may take you to? Check it out for yourself.
Over the holidays, Tucker, our little 98 gram challenge of the last 20 years, discovered, after an unauthorized taste, that he loves eggnog with a bit of Krupnik, a well loved local liqueur.
Shortly afterwards he put on a display of his acrobatic skills.
If you would notice the green colours in the background of the Krupnik bottle, I must tell you that the picture was taken on January 3rd, 2026. Some people love a white Christmas, some prefer green.
Full disclosure, Tucker was caught in the act of dipping his tiny tongue into the glass and promptly banned to his cage. Also, this crazy picture of Tucker was taken in July 2005, when he was barely four months old. However, his acrobatics are nearly as impressive even today.
I would like to finish this first newsletter of 2026 on a positive note, with an environmental article I found on the BBC. While much of the focus in everyday news is on the endless stream of bad, or worse news which often leaves many with a fog of despair, there are many successes we should recognize. We should also accept that there will always be incredible effort needed to protect this world, and play our part when and where we can.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20251212-seven-quiet-wins-for-climate-and-nature-in-2025
Remember, if you have a Shakarri question or any question, or something you would like discussed in the newsletter send me a note on the contact section of my website and I’ll get back to you when I can.
Have a safe, happy and adventurous year everyone.
-Ray
