Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great Time!

Guest: Max (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 08/20/11 Review Submitted: 09/12/11

We had a great time at Our Great Escape! There were so many amenities that it made packing and traveling easy for our family. Rob's communication leading up to our trip was second to none. Any questions we had about the property, Lost Land Lake, and the Hayward area were all answered prior to us leaving. We felt like we were on vacation with the comforts of home.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

A Beautiful Release from the hectic pace of daily life

Guest: Vickie (Hockessin, Delaware)
Date of Stay: 08/06/11 Review Submitted: 08/16/11

My family and I have been vacationing on Lost Land Lake for almost 25 years. We have family in Wisconsin and have developed some very close friendships with folks we have met there over these years. While we had stayed in one place previously, we decided that it would be nice to stay in a place where all of us could be together (4 adults and 5 adult children). Living in the Northeast can be hectic and stressful at times, and being able to get away to the quiet and beautiful lake areas of Wisconsin is a blessing. While we have typically enjoyed our previous vacations on Lost Land Lake, none compared to this one. The beauty of the lakehouse -- both inside and out -- was amazing. It was clean, comfortable and inviting. This is one of the first times in the nearly 25 years where we "ate in" almost every night, because we just did not want to leave! We enjoyed beautiful sunrises, amazing wildlife watching cruises on the pontoon (rented from the nicest people at Wilson Bay Lodge), nightly fires in the firepit, star gazing, daily walks through the beautiful woods, breathtaking sunsets, fishing, horseback riding, reading, and even one amazing thunderstorm with lightning blazing over the lake! Most importantly, the serenity and comfort of the lakehouse gave us the wonderful opportunity to spend time with our adult children who just love Lost Land Lake. We are already counting down the weeks until our return!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A little bit of heaven in Wisconsin

Guest: Joan and Bill Gacki (Mendota Hts., MN)
Date of Stay: 07/16/11 Review Submitted: 07/24/11

This is our third time renting this beautiful cabin and we are never disappointed. Everything is meticulously cared for and we never tire of our stay. This year the owner added WiFi, which helped tremendously by alleviating the workload when we got home. We spent our days riding on a pontoon rented from Wilson's Bay Lodge, fishing, photographing wildlife and simply relaxing on the breezy screened porch or in the Adirondack chairs on the lawn overlooking Lost Land Lake.. The setting is heavenly, with spectacular views of both the sunrise and the sunset. A perfect getaway for a small or large family.

Owner response:These Guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 16-23, 2011.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Amazing Vacation; Our Great Escape lives up to its billing

Guest: Mike (Yorkville, IL)
Date of Stay: 07/09/11 Review Submitted: 07/21/11

We've been going to Lost Land Lake for 10 years. The previous 9 years were spent in some very "rustic" cabins. This year we decided that our group of 9 (8 adults and a 3 year old) would be better suited in a home. After doing the research, we decided upon OGE - and we were not disappointed. Actually, that's a ridiculous understatement. We were completely blown away! The property is exactly as billed on the website. The location is spectacular and the amenities are wonderful. As much as we enjoyed the "rustic" cabins of the past, it was very nice to have a sparkling clean home with all the comforts of home, to live in for the week. From the awesome kitchen and sleeping arrangements, to the private beach area and the abundance of wildlife everywhere you look (loon, otter, beaver, fox, bald eagle, deer), to the fantastic fishing off the pier...just a wonderful experience all the way around. When you're not cooking in the home, head to Lost Land Lake Lodge for dinner; on Fridays, check out the Walleye fish fry at Totem Pole Lodge (cash only!). Be sure to rent a pontoon from Jim at Wilson Bay Lodge (which you can take to LLL Lodge). He has great rates and with a large group, a pontoon is a must for cruising around Lost Land Lake and taking the channel up to Teal Lake. We also highly recommend taking a tubing trip on the Namekegon River. Over the years we've tried all the places (Jack's, KOA, etc.) - by far the best is Camp Namekegon off of 63 and Hwy E. They have the best tubes, best river route and very friendly staff. If you head into downtown for some shopping, make a stop at Tremblay's candies - you will not be disappointed. And of course, stop in at The Happy Hooker for any of your fishing needs (they have some awesome local bacon as well)! We're all looking forward to returning to Lost Land Lake and OGE next summer, and for many summers to come. A big "thank you" to Rob for providing an amazing venue for an unforgettable family vacation.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 9-16, 2011.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, sightseeing.

Wonderful Family Getaway! (June 11-18, 2011)

Guest: The Johnson Family (Rochester, MN)
Date of Stay: 06/11/11 Review Submitted: 06/20/11

We rented this beautiful lakehome for our group of 7 adults + 2 teens. It was the perfect setting for a relaxing family gathering. The home is gorgeous and immaculately cared for. Although it is spacious and well suited to a large group - the furnishings are comfortable (especially the brown leather couch in the great room - a favorite "napping spot" ) and provide a cozy feel. One of our favorite spots was the screened porch overlooking the lake. With plenty of seating for our group - it was the morning gathering spot for coffee and perfect for my 85-year old mother-in-law. As the early riser in our group, she was able to sit out on the porch in the early morning and enjoy the wildlife activity without being bothered by those pesky mosquitos. Speaking of wildlife, we had the wonderful opportunity to see deer with baby fawns, coyote, red fox, sandhill cranes, osprey, muskrats (busy little fellas), snapping turtles, loons and Canada Geese. Two of the highlights were monitoring the daily activities of a pair of Bald eagles on their nest with two juvenile eagles. Such a magestic bird. (Be sure to bring your binoculars). We also had a black bear sighting while driving into town one night. Quite the excitement for us city folks. We took the advice of others and rented a pontoon boat for the week from Wilson Bay Lodge. (We also rented well in advance). It was great to have the pontoon to take out for fishing, for an evening cruise or to head over to the adjoining Teal Lake. We spent most evenings fishing from the dock. One of the best fishing holes appeared to be right in front of our dock. There was always a fisherman casting a line nearby. Of course, we were just able to toss in a line from the dock and reel in our catch. It is a bit of a drive into Hayward - so only went in a few times, but it was very convenient to have the 24-hr Walmart there to pick up our fishing license and supplies. A few of us spent a few hours at the LCO Casino one evening. It is a friendly place and we all had a fun time there. Another highlight (especially for the guys in our group) was to have dinner at the ORIGINAL Famous Dave's BBQ on Round Lake. If you are looking for a beautiful setting and a clean, comfortable vacation spot, I would highly recommend this lakehome property. Rob is so organized and thorough in his preparations for your arrival - you will feel like you have your own personal concierge.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 11th-18th,2011.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Exceptional Property - Wonderful Vacation

Guest: San Diego Family (San Diego, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 06/04/11 Review Submitted: 06/21/11

Our family enjoyed a truly fantastic experience in a perfect North Woods setting. We traveled from Southern California with 2 young children for our vacation and the property could not be better set up for a family. Everything we needed was readily available, clean and organized. The lake front is great for small kids, gently sloping and a clean, gradual beach to play in. We rented a pontoon from nearby Wilson Bay Lodge which was perfect for cruising Lost Land Lake. I'm still amazed by the amount of wildlife we experienced and the kids were in awe. Rob does an exceptional job managing the property. Every detail from directions to information about the Hayward area is covered. The house is beautiful and very well maintained; few home kitchens are as well equipped! I would definitely recommend this property for a family vacation and we look forward to returning next summer.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 4-11, 2011.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, families with teenagers, families with young children.

Our Family Vacation

Guest: Ken (Arlington Heights, IL)
Date of Stay: 07/24/10 Review Submitted: 08/12/10

What a great house for our family, 6 adults and 4 grandchildren under the age of 5. The grounds are well-maintained and the house was exceptionally clean. We've rented many houses and Our Great Escape is one of the best. Rob's attention to details can not be exceeded. The gentle sloping sand beach, playground, and loft were great for the children. All the ammenities contributed towards a GREAT vacation for the entire family. We definetly recommend this property.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 24th-31st, 2010.

Recommended for:Families with young children

Wisconsin paradise!

Guest: Joan and Bill (Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/26/10

We just spent a week at this beautiful and meticulously cared-for cabin in one of the most heavenly settings in Hayward,. The cabin is spacious, sunny, immaculate and every attention to detail is taken care of. We rented a pontoon boat from Wilson's Bay (reserve in advance!) and explored the quiet lakes, fished, cruised, watched the baby eagles and lots of wildlife and beautiful sights. We would highly recommend this lovely home to anyone, any time of the year. We're already counting the days till we return next summer!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 17th-24th, 2010.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Small Children's Paradise

Guest: KJ (USA)
Date of Stay: 07/03/10 Review Submitted: 07/28/10

We had a wonderful time as a family at the lake again this summer! This year we had the privilege of staying at Our Great Escape....and that is definitely was!!!! I would highly recommend this vacation rental to anyone looking for the perfect beachfront home for your little ones to play in the sand and swim in clear water with a soft sandy bottom! It truly was the perfect place for kids!!! The rental is very expensive, however the lake lot itself would be hard to beat anywhere else...it is "top notch"!!!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 3rd-10th, 2010.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway.

Truly, A Great Escape.

Guest: The Garcia's (Minneapolis, MN)
Date of Stay: 06/19/10 Review Submitted: 08/24/10

My family could not have been more pleased with the management, amenities, and presentation of this beautiful lake property. Rob made us feel not only welcome, but like we were the only people staying there all summer. His impeccable communication, attention to details, and concern for the success of our vacation was amazing. He could not have been more gracious if he'd been right there with us. The property is especially well suited to having little ones that love to swim. The depth is gradual, the beach sandy, and the water clear. Special note should be made for the ease of which we were able to sip a cocktail while watching them entertain themselves........the true hallmark of a parenting vacation. As camping veterans, we appreciated every comfort of home, the relaxation it provided, and the ability to enjoy each other. The firewood, the gas grill, the fire ring, flotation devices for the kids, view of the beach from the kitchen, cable access, laundry facilities, well stocked kitchen.......and on and on. Thanks Rob, you have a beautiful space and we appreciate you sharing.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 26th-July 3rd, 2010.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Quiet and Relaxing

Guest: Parents of 2 (Brainerd, MN)
Date of Stay: 06/19/10 Review Submitted: 07/20/10

We had a wonderful week with our family at this beautiful home. Rob was wonderful to work with - and the home was exactly as the website portrayed. The quiet lake was wonderful - and very relaxing. We rented a pontoon from Wilson Lodge - brand new and very easy to work with. We had more than enough space and the extra touches like games and videos for the kids were wonderful. We love the Hayward Area and would definitely stay here again.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 19th-June 26th, 2010.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway.

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/27/09 Review Submitted: 07/27/09

Awesome time in Hayward, WI on Lost Land Lake. This place is beautiful and the setting is serene. Fox, deer, bear, turtles....and even a few muskies! This piece of luxury in the north woods was a great find.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 18th-25th, 2009.

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Guest: Milwaukee couple in love (Milwaukee, WI USA)
Date of Stay: 07/25/09 Review Submitted: 08/05/09

My wife and I along with my son, his wife and my granddaughter recently spent a wonderful week at this property. The property is even more beautiful and functional than shown in the the VRBO listing and the owners website. We have rented numerous properties found on VRB0 in the past, but have never worked with someone as organized and responsive as Rob. Everything is detailed for you and the house is set up perfectly and well supplied for your stay. Cooking in this kitchen is like being at home. The great room is not only funtional but also very beautiful. The bedrooms and bathroom facilities are top notch. The screeened in porch lets you enjoy the quiet and beauty of the lake without having to worry about the evening bugs. The word quiet lakes is used to describe the 10 mph speedlimit but can also be used to describe the quiet and peace found in these surroundings. Wildlife including deer, fox, otters, eagles, loons, ducks and geese are abundant, and are usually the only sounds you here on the lake. This is a first rate property with a first rate owner, and is one of the few vacations we have ever taken were we came back totally rested and relaxed. This was a first class experience highlighted by the home and the overall experience.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 25th-August 1st, 2009.

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Guest: Denny & Kathie Gingras (Chippewa Falls, WI)
Date of Stay: 07/11/09 Review Submitted: 07/29/09

We vacationed from July 11 - July 18 at Our Great Escape with our children and grandchildren. Rob and his staff have renting out a vacation home down to an art - no details are overlooked! From a Great Blue Heron walking on the dock to the fox running through the yard (and a BEAR sighted down the road along with deer with fawns) - what a nature adventure for us. We packed about 3 weeks of fun into our 1 week vacation. We would recommend this "vacation spot" to anyone - bring your smiles and adventure caps with you!!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 11th-18th, 2009.

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Guest: Joan and Bill Gacki (Mendota Hts., MN)
Date of Stay: 06/27/09 Review Submitted: 07/13/09

We loved every minute of our week in this sunny and welcoming home on Lost Land Lake. The sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking and the wildlife viewing is terrific. We spent hours on the screened porch or just sitting on the dock reading, fishing and feeding the baby ducks. At night it was cool enough to make a fire in the beautiful fieldstone fireplace. The cabin is perfect--everything we needed was right there. We were able to rent a pontoon for the week from Wilson's Bay and Lost Land and Teal Lakes are perfect for cruising and fishing. We're hoping to return some time in Sept. or Oct. to see the beauty of the lake and woods in the Fall. We also enjoyed a trip into Hayward to see the shops and try out the restaurants. We had a great time and can't wait to return to Our Great Escape!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 27th-July 4th, 2009.

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Guest: Salem and Bunny Markos (La Crosse, WI)
Date of Stay: 06/20/09 Review Submitted: 07/20/09

Dear Rob, Again we would like to thank you for letting us share "Our Great Escape". It is our second trip to your lovely home. Our children and grand children were delighted with the luxurious and spacious "Up North" accommodations. The kitchen and dining area were perfect for our large family. The huge, comfortable great room area was enjoyed by everyone...espically by our grand babies. One of them did her first crawling there! What wonderful memories! It was a perfect setting for our family get-together. We saw three fox, lots of ducks,loons, and other wildlife. The pontoon boat we rented was perfect for fishing and cruising. All and all we had a wonderful time and made lots fond memories. Thank you for everything, Salem and Bunny Markos La Crosse, WI

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 20th-27th, 2009.

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Guest: Nick Kanauz (Grand Rapids, MI)
Date of Stay: 06/13/09 Review Submitted: 07/13/09

If you are on the fence about Our Great Escape, fall off and sign up! The brochure pictures do not do this fine lakehouse justice. We absolutely loved our week at "the house". The grandkids loved the beach area. They enjoyed feeding the ducks, and fishing off the dock. As a side show, it was funny watching the fox kit chasing the ducklings in an attempt to capture its own meal. It even sunbathed on the dock a few times. Fishing on the lake is wonderful as well. Excellent for pan fish, bass, and musky. Our stay here was a wish come true for us, as we have loved looking at the home for years from the lake, as we would fish our way around the bay. The quiet, wildlife, and the true hominess of Our Great Escape made for a dream vacation. Make it yours!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" June 13th-20th, 2009.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/01/08 Review Submitted: 09/24/08

This was our first time at Our Great Escape. We stayed four days. Upon arrival, we noticed how bright, airy and clean the house was. The extra effort that was taken to make you feel welcome was apparent. We felt at home right from the start. Jim fished, I read, we walked, we watched the ducks, loons and deer. Our only regret was that it was over way too fast. Next year, Lord willing, we plan to stay a full week. Thank you for sharing your wonderful home with us.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" Sept.8th-11th, 2008.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Margaret Meyer (Waunakee We)
Date of Stay: 08/01/08 Review Submitted: 08/14/08

Our family of 10,ages one year to grandparents had a restful,wildlife filled week at Our Great Escape. I can only imagine the beauty this Fall. The screen porch was a hit for guilting and a game of Uno Attack. Grandpa enjoyed reading out there. We were blessed to have found this home so well furnished, thank you.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" July 19th-26th, 2008.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Salem and Bunny Markos (La Crosse, WI)
Date of Stay: 06/01/08 Review Submitted: 06/28/08

Dear Rob, Words cannot properly describe the enjoyment that we had up north at your beautiful home on Lost Land Lake. Your place is deluxe and the accommodations were near perfect. We saw lots of wildlife, caught a few fish, and simply enjoyed. The pontoon boat we rented was great for fishing and cruising. My sisters, their husbands and Bunny and I wish to thank you for allowing us to rent your "Great Escape". Next year we hope to have our children join us and rent "Our Great Escape" in late June or July. We'll let you know soon. Thanks again, Salem and Bunny Markos

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Eric & Marty Barwick (Nevada, MO)
Date of Stay: 12/01/07 Review Submitted: 12/01/07

Comment Text: “Our Great Escape” is just the right combination of modern convenience and rustic beauty. Located in a choice location on Lost Land Lake, this spacious cabin comfortably accommodated our group of 10. While the men were fishing for Muskie, Northern, Crappie and Bass on one of the area’s premier “quiet lakes,” the ladies enjoyed sunbathing, swimming, relaxing on the porch, bike riding and scenic walks. One morning we were thrilled to see a red fox as we walked along one of the many paths in the area. And what would a vacation be without shopping? Nearby Hayward is full of northern charm, sporting some interesting shops, a delicious bakery, some of the best ice cream in Wisconsin and a Muskie Museum for the diehard fishermen in our group. At night we enjoyed sitting around the fire pit eating smores, relaxing in the great room playing one of the many board games provided by the owners and enjoying movies on the 42” big screen television. We can confidently say that the owners of “Great Escape” provide every special ingredient necessary for making your vacation in Wisconsin one of the best ever! We whole-heartedly recommend “Our Great Escape” to anyone looking for an enjoyable week away from the hustle and bustle of life.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" for a week in July of 2007.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Bob & Linda Crain (Orland Park, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/27/07

"Our Great Escape" was our family's first introduction to vacationing in Wisconsin and what a fantastic first impression! Winding along the tree lined road encircling the Lost Land Lake we were captivated by the beauty of this forest setting. What a pleasant surprise as we turned into the circle drive and pulled up to an immaculately maintained property. Once inside we were equally impressed with the decor featuring a stunning great room, comfortable furnishings, top-notch kitchen, and special amenities that made our stay so enjoyable. We particularly enjoyed the screened in porch with an unrestricted view of the lake. From the porch we could read a good book while keeping a close eye on our kids swimming at the beach or fishing off the dock. Space doesn't permit us to list all the things we liked about "Our Great Escape." We look forward to returning soon!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" for a week in July of 2007.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Bill Wall (Mokena, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/25/07

Upon arrival, my first impression of the Our Great Escape rental was how well maintained the house and surrounding grounds were. Large trees provide the natural beauty of the woods yet cleared enough to avoid feeling crowded. Once through the door, to my surprise the whole house appeared newly remodeled, top to bottom. The entire layout of the kitchen and living area is what you would commonly see built today. I wish my own home was as updated and nice as this place. The Great Room is entirely conducive to those desiring to spend quality time with family and friends. Plenty of seating and room to lounge. Everything was very clean, comfortable and beautifully done. Once outdoors, you begin to appreciate the natural beauty of this lake and the surrounding area. Being a “Quiet Lake” allows you to enjoy God’s awesome creation without the distraction that modern water sports bring. The boating observed on this lake is calm and not a nuisance. The sound of loons and the observation of bald eagles fishing really took me out of my suburban world. Truly a great escape!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" for a week in June of 2007.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Dave & Cathy Cempel (West Bloomfield, MI)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/15/07

This home is perfect to rent whatever size family you have. It has plenty of bedrooms and the kitchen/dining room/living area is one open area to give it a very spacious feeling. The view from the kitchen area overlooking the lake is just beautiful. This home also has a screened porch with many chairs to sit and overlook the lake while you read, play a game or just enjoy your favorite beverage. In the living area there is a VHS/DVD player with a large TV screen. You can bring some of your favorite DVD's or tapes to watch in the evening. Depending on the amount of rainfall during the year, there is a very nice sandy area by the lake for the children to play. Not too many nearby homes have this nice sandy area for the children to play. If you are looking for a serene vacation place with all of the comforts of home this is the place for you.

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" for a week in August of 2007.

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Guest: Bill Wall (Mokena, IL)
Date of Stay: 06/26/07 Review Submitted: 11/26/07

Upon arrival, my first impression of the Our Great Escape rental was how well maintained the house and surrounding grounds were. Large trees provide the natural beauty of the woods yet cleared enough to avoid feeling crowded.Once through the door, to my surprise the whole house appeared newly remodeled, top to bottom. The entire layout of the kitchen and living area is what you would commonly see built today. I wish my own home was as updated and nice as this place.The Great Room is entirely conducive to those desiring to spend quality time with family and friends. Plenty of seating and room to lounge. Everything was very clean, comfortable and beautifully done.Once outdoors, you begin to appreciate the natural beauty of this lake and the surrounding area. Being a “Quiet Lake” allows you to enjoy God’s awesome creation without the distraction that modern water sports bring. The boating observed on this lake is calm and not a nuisance. The sound of loons and the observation of bald eagles fishing really took me out of my suburban world. Truly a great escape!

Owner response:These guests stayed at "Our Great Escape" for a week in June of 2007.

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