Life at Keltic Lodge – A Reflection
Tuesday, July 10th, 2012
General Manager Matthew Mackenzie
Animal spotting as of July 10th : (32) moose, (53) bald eagles, (3) red fox, (3) seals, (23) deer, (1) cat track the size of your fist, (1) blue jay, (1) owl, (100) chipmunks- they are everywhere!!, (3) beavers, (1) woodpecker, (1) porcupine, (2) minke whales and countless flocks of birds moving through.
Moving to Cape Breton as a Mackenzie seemed very right; I feel lucky and blessed to have this opportunity to live at the Keltic Lodge. In British Columbia, visitors are struck by the beauty of the landscape, nature and contrast of the scenery. In Cape Breton the same holds true.
From coast-to-coast, I find similarities in almost everything which amazes me since the distances are so vast. The scenery in Canada is vast, stoic and powerful from coast-to-coast and these scenes certainly make seeing Canada wonderful. These stunning views bridge the gaps between the people, the passion and the personalities that make us so flawless.
Cape Breton was discovered hundreds of years ago in 1497. When looking at the 150-year-old homesteads and reflecting on the traditions spanning generations, it inspired me to contact the Gaelic College to follow my own heritage. The Gaelic College was founded in 1938 by Rev. A.W.R. MacKenzie as a school devoted to the study and preservation of the Gaelic language and Celtic arts and culture.
I had requested a kilt to be made with my family tartan. Previous to this, I hadn’t had the opportunity to wear a kilt (except for my sister’s wedding), but I think there is something to be be said about my heritage. I wanted to share our family history with my wee family. Ann, who made my kilt, is one of the best kilt makers in Canada and teaches others her craft. Each person that knows Ann remembers the stories she tells and her warmth; I am proud to wear the kilt she made for me.
I can only hope that when you visit the Keltic Lodge, you remember me and my staff that fondly. It is more beautiful here than I can describe, but the heart of the Highlands is the people… if Eugene in the Purple Thistle made your stay perfect; if Sally made you smile when you booked your room; or if Liam played the pipes like you have never heard before, then we did our job.
Keltic Lodge is not a cookie cutter vacation and I certainly hope you have the opportunity to tell me why this property means something to you. Pop by any time or please tell me your story, since each tale is our history. I am proud to be part of the 2012 Keltic Lodge family!
Until next time,
Matthew Mackenzie