Karey and Howie deGraaf
Howie and I go way back — we were high‑school sweethearts growing up in Duncan on Vancouver Island. After university, we each followed our own paths. I moved to California, married, raised three kids, and spent twenty‑six years running a business with my first husband. Howie also married and raised five children — and somehow, life found a way to bring us together again.
While living in Fort Bragg, a little coastal town in California, my first husband and I had a home with a small grandmother cottage that was perfect for a vacation rental. After renovating it, we began renting it by the night — and discovered how much fun it was! Guests came from all over the world, each bringing their own stories and experiences to share.
When my kids were grown, I chose to start a new chapter and move back to Canada. In 2005, I reconnected with Howie, who was also on his own, and we’ve been together ever since — married and enjoying life surrounded by our grown children and grandchildren.
A Legacy of Love and Home
My mother, Jan, and stepfather Maurie Turner built our house in 1978. It was their dream home, and they cherished living in this beautiful area for nearly forty years. Over the years, we celebrated countless family occasions here — birthdays, Christmases, Easters, Thanksgivings, and even my sister’s beautiful wedding.
Bringing a Vision to Life
She loved to garden and entertain and always believed the house would make a wonderful small bed and breakfast. When Mum passed away in 2014, my husband and I decided to carry out her vision and open the house to guests in her memory. We truly enjoy welcoming visitors and providing a comfortable, relaxing place to stay while they explore our gorgeous island.