| Date | Rating | Comment
[Guest Comments: 45 positive, 0 negative]
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| 09/21/09 |
Positive
|
| My husband, 89 yr old mother in law and 2 small dogs spent 4 days at Tall Pines (Sanctuary) Sept 13-Sept 17. It rained every day and night that we were there, so we did not get to enjoy the outdoors as much as we would have liked to. However, the Sanctuary was so nice, (very much like the pictures, only nicer), it made the rain much more bearable. It truly was a peaceful and restful vacation. I definitely plan on staying there again soon. |
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Kerry Bruyere, St. Louis, MO |
|
| 03/23/09 |
Positive
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| 3/23/09 We had such a great time at Tall Pines. The house is in a very picturesque setting and beautifully kept. We didn't want to leave. We hope to return in the future. |
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Anonymous |
|
| 12/30/08 |
Positive
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| My husband & I had a wonderful time staying at the Sanctuary property. My husband was home for mid-deployment leave, & Bruce & Margie were very flexible & understanding working with us & the unpredictable time tables those connected with the military are prone to enduring. The home & surrounding area were beautiful, & the amenities were everything we could have hoped for. I would recommend this home away from home to any vacationer. |
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Ashley Selzer, Reeds Spring, MO |
|
| 12/27/08 |
Positive
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| We just returned from a Christmas stay at the Sanctuary and Hiding Place. It was wonderful! Plenty of room for our families and a beautiful setting. Very quiet and relaxing. Bruce and Marge are warm and wonderful hosts. They went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, they even came caroling on Christmas eve! What a treat! Thanks for your hospitality. It helped make for an unforgettable Christmas vacation. |
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Susan Prejean, DeQuincy, LA
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|
| 12/03/08 |
Positive
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My husband and I planned our wedding on the back deck of the Sanctuary on August 2, 2008. It was breath taking, and I receive compliment after compliment about how beautiful the greenery was surrounding us. Thank you guys, Margie and Bruce, for being sooooo accommodating and generous! I will definitely recommend your place and it was great advertisement for you guys as well, because EVERYONE was asking how we found the place and were also telling us how beautiful it was and wonderfully located. It was a magical and georgous venue for our small wedding, and we are already talking about booking our 1st anniversary at Tall Pines!!
Thanks again from the grateful newlyweds,
Elizabeth & Randy Satterfield |
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Elizabeth & Randy, Rolla, MO |
|
| 07/29/08 |
Positive
|
| I'm a professional writer, but after staying 3 nights in the Sanctuary, I am almost without words. But one that came to mind easily was: wow. Upon arriving on Saturday afternoon, we entered the Sanctuary and were simply amazed. The home is beautiful in every respect. The architecture fit the environment perfectly and was decorated so well that it could be featured in Home and Garden magazine. The owners, Bruce and Margie, were incredible, hard-working people who helped in any way they could and showed genuine interest in our family. In the past, we only went to Branson every 10 years or so. Now, we can't wait to return. I'll be surprised if we don't return in within six months to stay at Tall Pines again. If you are considering this property, book now without hesitation. It was a bargain for what you get: Great location. Great property. Great home. Great hosts. Beautiful. Relaxing. Tranquil. Very Clean! Thanks for a wonderful stay. Just wish we could have stayed longer! |
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Larry Newman, Oklahoma City, OK
(405) 728-2970 |
|
| 07/26/08 |
Positive
|
| Margie, your entire property was a dream. Thank you for the tour you gave of your new carriage house. We stayed in the Sactuary. There were 7 of us and it was so much better than having to get hotel rooms. Plenty of room for all to spread out. Everything was so professional. All you do to make it home to all was very impressive. Hoping to come back. |
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Suellen, Cypress TX
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|
| 04/20/08 |
Positive
|
Margie,
We had a time we will always remember. My family was so impressed with the house.....it was absolutely beautiful!!! We are already trying to plan a family get away with other folks in our family and plan on staying at your property. It was our first trip to Branson....we thought it was so clean and nice. We will be back to the area and look forward to staying with you again. The girls had a terrific time as well!
What a joyful weekend.
God Bless
Tina and Dave Johnson
Owasso, Ok
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Dave Johnson, Owasso Oklahoma |
|
| 10/19/07 |
Positive
|
It is truly a beautiful place to stay. We were so happy with the house and surroundings. It was so relaxing.
We would recommend it to anyone. I have gone through VRBO before, but this was by far the nicest property we have ever stay at.
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George & Amie , Council Bluffs, IA |
|
| 09/27/07 |
Positive
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We just spent five wonderful days in Branson, staying at this beautiful house. It is ideal for two or three couples who wish the excitement of the "Branson Experience" with the tranquility of the natural surroundings of the Ozarks. The house has everything: spotless/tasteful furnishings, unique decorations, and all the amenities. Unless one wishes to be right on the strip, which is rather tacky, this is the ideal choice.
We have used vrbo all over the world and have never been disappointed. |
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Audrey Dunn, Hollywood, Florida
(954) 920-5905 |
|
| 08/13/07 |
Positive
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| We were in Branson on what was one of the hottest weeks of the year, and yet it felt comfortable at Tall Pines. All the ivy, pine trees, and waterfalls must help keep the heat away. Enjoyed the rocking chairs on the deck and the beautiful grounds. Can't wait to return. |
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The Hoffmans, Parkville, MO |
|
| 08/08/07 |
Positive
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Wow! This is a wonderful place!! Our family loved the house and property - it was a great place to come "home" to after a day at the lake or visiting Branson. Our kids enjoyed the treasure hunt,and Korey was a joy!
Thanks Bruce & Margie for making our stay better than we could have ever expected!
The Oswald Family |
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Anonymous |
|
| 07/23/07 |
Positive
|
| Great place...we really enjoyed ourselves at "Tall Pines". The house was as advertised. This was the owners prior residence and was evident by the attention to detail throughout the house. I am planning on staying again. We had a great time. |
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Corey, Overland Park, KS |
|
| 07/17/07 |
Positive
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| Why in the world would anyone stay anywhere else? The Sanctuary is a home away from home...in fact, it is better then home! Beautiful, peaceful, spotless, stocked with games, books, movies, etc...Our girls loved watching the squirrels and hummingbirds visit every day and they also love the treasure hunt on the property. There is stereo surround sound built into the deck - I can't tell you how awesome it was to sit in the hot tub late one night and listen to the "symphony" and watch the sky light up (heat lightning) behind the clouds and over the tall pines! We loved this place! The owners have paid every attention to detail and have not skimped on a thing! |
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Ross and Dena Wilson, Mendota, IL
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|
| 06/18/07 |
Positive
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| This is the most relaxing and beautiful place we have stayed while on vacation. We wanted somwhere that was away from the hustle and bustle but yet child friendly. We found both with this place. Also, we wanted a Christian atmosphere. You feel as if you could reach out and touch God. While there, the children and I fell in love with the family's Cocker Spaniel named Corey. He came to visit every morning.We will definitely go back and highly recommend this marvelous place. |
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Belinda, Paducah, Ky.
270-554-9516 |
|
| 06/05/07 |
Positive
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| Tall Pines Sanctuary was the very best vacation rental we have had the priviledge to rent. It was definitely worth the drive from Florida! There was plenty of room for our family of 4 to relax and enjoy the perfect natural setting. We appreciated the peaceful location away from the hustle and bustle of Branson, but close enough to enjoy the attractions if we desired. Bruce and Margie have considered every detail to make your stay memorable. |
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Maridel, Indialantic, FL
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| 05/29/07 |
Positive
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It is only 7 months since we visited the Sanctuary, and already we wish we could return.
We went as two couples. Both had come from extremely hectic schedules, and one from a hectic extended family vacation. And then...peace. We were surrounded by nature. It was food for the soul. Gorgeous. In the hot tub on the deck at night, as we looked up, it seemed like the trunks of those magnificent pines formed a channel right up to heaven itself. It was another world and was absolutely refreshing and restoring.
Yet, just a little ways away, there was anything we could want to see and more. Our favorite was the Dixie Lee Stampede. We also took walks, ate out sometimes and in at other times. From reading books in the rocking chairs on the raised deck to the hustle of Branson, it was pure delight. I know this sounds like an advertisement, but, honestly, it's the truth.
The house was beautiful with all comforts; we especially enjoyed the sound/theater system and the deck music. Additionally, everyhing was immaculate. And the owners could not do enough for us, yet allowed us total privacy.
On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the highest, in our humble opinion, it was off the top! We considered it a very special treat and blessing to have been there. |
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David & Janice |
|
| 02/23/07 |
Positive
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| Our three-day-get-away was amazing! We enjoyed watching movies, sitting in the hot tub, and playing games all in the comfort of this beautiful, peaceful home. Everything was perfect from the fireplace to the house decor to the surrounding nature. We would definitely love to visit Tall Pines again and hope we are able to do so soon! |
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Jennifer, Springfield, Missouri |
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Homeowner Response:
I emailed Jennifer to thank her for adding to our Guest Book. She responded with this additional note which I really appreciated and thought you might find helpful as well:
Thanks, Margie! We did have a great time! Our friends who joined us for Saturday evening were also impressed with the house and the surrounding gardens, trees, and overall landscaping. They have two young children who also loved the place; their two-year-old son enjoyed playing "cars and trucks" using the stairs as a giant super-highway, and their seven-year-old-daughter was glued to the TV with all the new Disney movies she hadn't already seen. As many seven-year-old girls seem to be, she loves horses and hadn't seen Dreamer, so she watched that twice. Our friends are thinking about going back later in the year.
On Monday when my husband and I were packing up to go, we looked at each other and said, "Wow, this was a really good weekend." We don't always feel that way with all the hustle and bustle of our lives, so to set work aside for three days and just be surrounded by warmth, beautiful nature, friends, a deck of cards, and a few bottles of wine was absolutely perfect. : ) Thanks so much!
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|
| 01/19/07 |
Positive
|
We stayed at tall Pines for our third anniversary and
to say the least we loved it. It was more than we
ever could have expected. Bruce & Margie have
done a spectacular job with putting the place
together and the decor is so welcoming. The
welcome book & box were such a great help & show
you how much Bruce & Margie are willing to help
you and want you to have the best time while
staying with them. The deck, hot tub, convience for
dogs, and ALLLLLL THE IVY was wonderful!!!!
Although while we were there we tried to see to
many things in Branson, but the best day we had
was the day it rained and we had to stay at Tall
Pines all day. We will definately be back to stay at
again!! |
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Callegan's:AJ,Becky,Biddy,& Datch, Marrero, LA |
|
| 10/24/06 |
Positive
|
We had our annual fall ladies reunion at Tall Pines this year. It was such a wonderful relaxing place to spend time together. Bruce and Margie have created a lovely retreat. If we return to the Branson area again I wouldn't hesitate in booking Tall Pines again.
Thanks,
Sally Shields |
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Sally Shields, Alexandria, IN 46001
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| 10/23/06 |
Positive
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Our family of 5 adults and 3 children were very privileged to spend 8 tranquil, refreshing days in October at Tall Pines Sanctuary. This home was beautifully nestled in the wooded hillside. We spent hours on the
sprawling deck reading, reflecting,rocking, soaking in the hot tub and enjoying the beautiful scenery, serenaded by tree frogs, whispering pines, and music coming from strategically placed outdoor speakers. The solarium overlooking the deck was another favorite spot for reading some tome from the ample library in-house--George McDonald's 3-novel volume was my favorite. Others in our group appreciated the wholesome video choices.
The cozy yet spacious interior was charmingly decorated yet sufficiently "kid-friendly". There was ample space for us to be together, as well as private if we needed that. We were so blessed by Bruce and Margie's efforts to offer their visitors a tall pine sanctuary. We wish them the best with their mission and hope to visit again. |
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Claudia Brunick, Watertown, SD |
|
| 10/21/06 |
Positive
|
| The six of us spent 4 wonderful days at Tall Pines and we enjoyed every minute of it. The accomodations were excellent, the view spectacular, and Bruce and Margie so hospitable. The only problem we had was not staying there long enough. I would highly recommend Tall Pines for an enjoyable, fun, and relaxing time. Karen and Vern |
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Karen and Vern Owens, Medford, Minnesota
507-451-0910 |
|
| 10/13/06 |
Positive
|
| We thoroughly enjoyed staying at his beautiful hide-away in the tall pines. It was so peaceful and yet not far from the action of Branson and Silver Dollar City. Having a grill, a kitchen and hot tub was fun for us. |
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Jan Peterson, Bricelyn, MN
507-653-4644 |
|
| 10/07/06 |
Positive
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| "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Mark 6:31b Thank you, Bruce & Margie, for providing such a place as this. Truly, the presence of the LORD and His blessings upon this household are evident here. After a five day stay at the Sanctuary, we left refreshed and renewed, thankful for the memories of a peaceful and relaxing vacation. This is the absolute perfect place for a Pastor and his family to get away and have quality family time. Hope we can visit again! |
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Trevor & Donnella Hayes, Rocky Mount, MO
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| 09/07/06 |
Positive
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| After my fiancee stayed at Tall Pines earlier this year and raved about how wonderful a place it was, I wanted to visit as well. I was really impressed with Tall Pines and it turned out to be even more beautiful than I knew it would be. The amenities were great and the house just fits perfectly into its natural environment. I can't wait to visit again. |
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Celeste Hoglund, Madison, WI
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|
| 05/30/06 |
Positive
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| When me and my husband vacation, we dont like the hotel/motel scenes, we want to stay at a place that is a home away from home and this was it! The home is beautiful and the surroundings were so relaxing and tranquil. Margie & Bruce were absolutely wonderful people. They made us feel so welcome. We will definitely be back. |
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Anna Stacy, High Ridge, MO
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|
| 05/30/06 |
Positive
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Great place to stay.We had a wonderful time staying at the sanctuary,it was so relaxing.It's the perfect place to go and get away from a busy life.
Thanks so much Bruce and Margie.
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Shannon Richardson, Gardner,KS |
|
| 04/11/06 |
Positive
|
| We spent a week in March at the Sanctuary with our 3 sons and really loved it. The architecture of the house is very impressive, the setting is beautiful and peaceful, Bruce and Margie were extremely hospitable, and the hot tub is a huge bonus. Great place for a family. Highly recommended!! |
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Brent and Kris Hoover |
|
| 04/09/06 |
Positive
|
had a great week.Great place to unwind and the home is wonderfull.
Doga enjoyed it too ! |
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Donachy, Sothlake.TX.
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|
| 03/02/06 |
Positive
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You definitely can't go wrong with this vacation rental! It's got it all. The abundant amenities offered by Tall Pines far surpass those of any other vacation rentals we have found.
The caring owners have made it a wonderful place to stay. The beautiful landscaping, secluded acreage, and relaxing fountains make it a retreat all your own. We so enjoyed the private hot tub, gorgeous views, and quiet atmosphere. The home theater and indoor/outdoor surround sound systems are awesome! We wish we could have stayed longer.
Whether you are seeking a relaxing vacation near the lake or the fast-paced excitement of Branson, we believe that Tall Pines is the perfect solution. It's a "must see to believe". The experience can't be matched by any hotel or resort. We will definitely be repeat visitors. Thanks Bruce and Margie!
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The Peery's, Herculaneum, MO |
|
| 02/27/06 |
Positive
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| What a GREAT place to relax! We've rented several other vrbo's and this by far was one of the BEST! Margie and Bruce were very helpful in housing us for a last minute get-away with the dogs! Driving to/from Branson was quick and easy, while the homes surrounding provided the perfect place to relax. We were very comfortable and would stay again in a heartbeat! We give it a TEN! If you love nature and peace and quiet - this is the place for you. |
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Dawn & Bruce, Spirit Lake IA |
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| 02/07/06 |
Positive
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We had a wonderful three day stay at The Santuary with our dogs, Sonny and Slim. Margie and Bruce were so helpful and friendly! The house was warm and beautiful and very comfortable. We especially enjoyed the surround sound on the deck as we relaxed in the hot tub. Thank you for providing us with one of the most beautiful rentals in Missouri. We will be back and we'll tell all our friends.
Andy and Leilani |
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Andy Tuttle and Leilani Thornton, Lawrence, Kansas |
|
| 01/31/06 |
Positive
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| We only take two trips per year so I research everything very thoroughly and what a find was Tall Pines! I really didn't want the word to get out on this rental, but Margie and Bruce have done such a superb job that they deserve to succeed and they will. All of the comments from past guests are accurate. It's simply a place that far exceeds your expectations and if you choose Tall Pines, enjoy your time but do me a favor and don't tell anyone about Tall Pines. |
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Jamie McCarthy, Kansas City, MO.
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| 01/23/06 |
Positive
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| We had a wonderful stay in this beautiful, peaceful, unforgettable home. You will not be sorry if you visit Tall Pines. Bruce and Margie are very nice and have paid great attention to detail to make your stay extremely comfortable and homey, from the swing outside to the rockers on the huge deck, filled bird feeders, chimes,the hot tub, waterfalls with fish in them, I can just go on and on. Make sure you make time in your vacation to enjoy this wonderful place and the ground surrounding it. |
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Cheryl Dorson, Fairview Hgts., Il
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| 01/23/06 |
Positive
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| Staying at Tall Pines was an absolute joy. The house is beautiful and contains everything one would want and more. The grounds were as amazing as they were expansive. The sound of the trees mingling with the wind is just sublime while sitting in the outdoor whirlpool. Bruce and Margie have really created one of the most perfect places in the world for comfort and relaxation. I will think of Tall Pines fondly forever, and look forward to visiting again in the very near future. |
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Scott Rubin-Asch, Madison, WI
6122375538 |
|
| 12/09/05 |
Positive
|
We were thrilled as soon as we drove up to Tall Pines! The landscape and fountains are beautiful. When we went inside we were even more thrilled! It's very roomy and beautifully decorated. The back deck was huge and we SO enjoyed the big hot tub.
Bruce came and helped us unpack our heavy cooler and suitcases, and he and Margie both were so helpful and friendly.
I highly recommend eating at Devils Pool at Big Cedar Lodge. What a treat!
Thank you so much! We can't wait to come back! Ashley and Brian Sheesley |
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Ashley, Maumelle, AR
501-851-8203 |
|
| 11/04/05 |
Positive
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| Kudos to the Tall Pines Sanctuary. The home is marvelous, clean and homey -- can't beat the privacy, conveniences and the landscaping with the waterfalls, outdoor hot tub and sound system. We thoroughly enjoyed the week as did our dogs! Thanks to Bruce and Margie for sharing this wonderful forest sanctuary. |
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Ken & Joan, Prairie Village, KS
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| 10/26/05 |
Positive
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What a great vacation. This is such a unique and beautiful property. The view is incredible. The hot tub on the deck overlooking all of the trees is such relaxing touch.
The house is very clean and comfortable. The pictures do not do the property justice.
The location is close enough to visit Branson but far enough not to have to deal with all of the traffic.
Best deal for the money in/around the Branson area.
Thank you to Bruce and Margie Gerlach for allowing us to stay at their amazing property. |
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Donelle Stokes, Bennington, NE
402-657-5932 |
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| 10/17/05 |
Positive
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| We enjoyed a wonderful, relaxing stay at Tall Pines! The house was in pristine condition, in fact, the photos on the internet don't do it justice. We especially enjoyed the spacious deck/solarium, hot tub, and the serene wooded setting. Next time, we hope the weather is warm enough to enjoy boating on the lake. |
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Christi Squier, Overland Park, Kansas
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Homeowner Response:
It's the least we provide for 3 hard working nurses!
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| 10/02/05 |
Positive
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| We had a wonderful visit to the Tall Pines house. The house was beautiful and we loved the fact that we could enjoy the peace and quiet and still be close to Branson and the lake. Bruce and Margie, thanks for your warm hospitality. |
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Lee & Holly Brown, Smithville, OK |
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| 10/01/05 |
N/A |
Guest Comment Entered By Homeowner:
Thanks for the beautiful home to use on our vacation, we had a wonderful time. Please tell your husband thanks for the battery charger, it helped me out twice. We have told alot of people about the house, and how beautiful that area is. Thanks again. Jeremy and Sarah
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Jeremy G.
Hinton, Iowa
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| 09/29/05 |
Positive
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| Bruce and Margie hit an absolute homerun with this property. Away from the hustle and bustle of Branson on the quiet end of the lake...this place is awesome. If you have the desire or feel the need to go into Branson or Silver Dollar City, it will take you a short 20 minutes. If your smart though, you will enjoy the home and its peaceful surroundings. I will be going back one day for sure. Thanks for the hospitality Bruce and Margie. |
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Kevin Fiske, Coweta, OK
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Homeowner Response:
This has been our first year in business. We have been SOOOO impressed with all the wonderful people who have passed through our doors. What a joy it has been to share our house with everyone. I appreciate all your wonderful comments. We look forward to seeing you all again! Bruce and Margie
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| 08/07/05 |
Positive
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| We had a wonderful time at this beautiful home. Our children truly loved coming back to the house and relaxing in the hot tub in the evenings after a long day running around Branson. A wonderful accomodation - would highly recommend! |
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Patrick & Brandi Minton, Hot Springs, AR
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| 08/03/05 |
Positive
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| We loved our stay at the Sanctuary! It was so peaceful to sit out on the deck and to relax in the hot tub (with the night lighting). It was great to see the place looked just like the pictures! This was a great place for a relaxing vacation - thanks to Bruce and Margie for sharing the Sanctuary! |
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Mary Jo & Shane Creech
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| 07/24/05 |
Positive
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| Our family stayed at Tall Pines in July of 2005. We would have to concur with all that the Dawsons had to say. Our stay was far more than we could have asked for or imagined. Like all of you, we are very busy people. Tall Pines has an amazing atmosphere of peace and tranquility that simply put, refreshes your soul (and it is so beautiful!). We loved it and we can't wait to go back. Scott & Nann Zinn. |
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Scott & Nann Zinn, Redding, CA. |
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| 07/13/05 |
Positive
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Hi everyone!
We just completed a 2 week stay at The Tall Pines
Sanctuary and what a great time it was!
The owners were wonderful and made every
accomodation for us. The home is very well
appointed and certainly beautiful. The peace and
quiet was wonderful with easy access to the lake
and great facilities. We had several children with us
and had numerous guests throughout our vacation
and all wanted to know how to rent this wonderful
property or if it was for sale! We would happily
return to Tall Pines and I am sure if you go, that
you will feel the same way. Make sure you check
out all the cool features like outdoor music and the
night lights while relaxing in the hot tub!
Enjoy and thanks Bruce and Margie for a great
family vacation! |
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Eric Dawson, Springfiled, Missouri
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