This home has been a legacy for family celebrations throughout my lifetime, and now we are passing it on to the next generation. My mother, Charlotte, selected this home for her retirement and brought its charm to the fore. My mother played sacred hymns and kept stacks of sheet music close at hand. I hope some of the composers she loved will bring you pleasure and inspiration too.

She and I loved reading and listening to music together. We read faith stories like a Man Called Peter, the Story of Peter Marshall. We read the great books series aloud, and whenever possible, after reading, would search out films with the same titles, such as To Kill a Mockingbird and the Good Earth. The time we invested in reading great books together continues to give its reward. When I listen to Eric Satie, or reread Kahil GIbran's book, The Prophet, I recall my mother's beauty, and feel gratitude for the way our friendship was braided together with life giving music and literature.

My mother left this home as part of her earthly legacy, and now I have felt, for a period of time, it would be a blessing to share the property with travelers. It is our intent that your stay here will offer you time to 'refresh and rest, then travel on.'

I am a retired teacher, but still work as a counseling consultant and retreat director. This photo shows a friend and I as we recall some of our childhood favorites! What are your favorite children's books? Dr. Suess? The Velveteen Rabbit? We hope you will share your favorites and maybe discover some new ones to share with the children in your life.

The home allows you to step back in time and also make the most of your present day hours. Come here to dwell in the quiet and reflect upon the authors and composers who have brought meaning to your lives. We hope you will take time to discover the serenity of the woodland setting, and like us, find joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Pamela Tarantino purchased this house in 1907

Why do they call this region the heartland? Are there places still where people take time for bird watching?

Is there a place where you can wind down, and get off the express trains, as the Little Prince would ask? Do fairies dwell in the quietest corners of the garden?

Is there time to let the tea brew or really taste the wine? What about taking time to copy down a favorite family recipe and write an old fashioned, handwritten letter?

This property was chosen because it is a hideaway on a hill, surrounded by woodland calm. There must be something in our heritage about houses on a hill. I like to call it the Top House, as well as Story Book Retreat House. This property feels like a real home, because it is one . . . that may be the curious link that draws you here, to be at home while you see if your act will play in Peoria for a weekend, or maybe longer . . .

Leaded windows, lace curtains, high ceilings, a private home rather than a suite in a hotel. This home has been dedicated as a retreat house and sanctuary, so there is a warmth and ambience that is a result of being lovingly cared for. Kindness has been spoken here for one hundred years! If you are seeking a place to find serenity, as well as direction for important life decisions, this home may offer you the special welcome which comes only from being well loved for many years. You may want to purposely schedule a visit with the possiblity of getting snowed in for a day or two!

(The home was built in 1907, owned by friends of our family, and purchased by my mother in the 1980's.)