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First Time at a Bed and Breakfast?

"When I first came to Fox River B&B, I didn’t really know what a bed and breakfast was. All I knew was that I had just graduated college and wanted to take a little trip.

 

I saw that Fox River B&B had a room that was cheaper than the lodge at Starved Rock, and it had better ratings than all the motels in the area. But to tell you the truth, I was a little worried that a B&B would be too uptight or too fancy for my taste.

However, once I had stayed at Fox River B&B for a couple nights, my fears were calmed and my perceptions changed. By the fourth night, we didn't want to leave. The room was very comfortable, and the hosts were very friendly. They made us feel right at home, and the room almost felt a little familiar once we were settled in there. I have to admit that I am very glad we didn’t shack up in a motel somewhere. Our room was very clean, and it felt like our room while we were there…not a generic (and often dirty!) motel room we were renting. Not only that, but our hosts were very helpful about giving advice on where to eat and which souvenir shops to visit. They really know the surrounding towns and businesses very well.

The whole house had character, including the room we stayed in. But I’ll have to say that the greatest characters of all were our hosts, Bobby Joe and Maria. They were extremely hospitable and honestly down-to-earth people. Before coming to their place, I was a little apprehensive about staying in “someone else’s” house, and I was worried the hosts of a B&B might look down their noses at us for bringing all our own food and a microwave. However, they were very flexible and totally cool with whatever we wanted to do, as long as we had a good time. After an evening of hanging out and chatting with the two of them, I found both of them to be very fun, open minded people with a yearning to get to know and make their guests comfortable."

" By the way, you have GOT to try Bobby Joe’s breakfast tacos. They are freakin’ amazing!"

Thanks again Bobby Joe and Maria….our stay was great!

-Gary J. Teune - Chicago January/2006

 

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To all future guests planning a stay at Fox River Bed and Breakfast: My wife and I would like to tell you of the wonderful time we spent with Maria and Bobby Joe.

Fox River B&B was just what we expected; a traditional old fashioned place to get away from the 9-5 and relax in the company of good people. Bobby Joe and Maria were very fun to be with and very informative about the history of the surrounding areas. My wife Rosa and I are planning a return trip this summer.

It may not be a five star hotel, but the warm open hospitality was ***** for us!!

Thank you from Laymon and Rosa Kelly January/2006

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We just returned from Fox River Bed and Breakfast and loved it. My husband and I with our daughter, son-in-law and our granddaughter stayed this last weekend at the B&B. We needed to get away for a weekend which would be within a Two hour or less drive from Chicago & Northwest Indiana. This was perfect.

Maria took the time to call me to give me the directions to the place. She also greeted us when we arrived and made sure we was comfortable.

On Saturday morning, we had Bobby Joe's Breakfast Tacos and they were great! This was the first time I had a taco breakfast and it was all it was advertised to be and more. On Sunday, Maria made us her English Breakfast and that needs to be on their advertisement...Wonderful!

Also while we ate on Sunday, Maria made oatmeal and coffee for another couple and served it to them in their room. I have never stayed at a B&B that has given this kind of service.

The only drawback was when we asked Bobby if he would like to join us in playing "Scrabble" , of which he said he wasn't that good and won all the games..

I truly recommend this B&B. You won't be disappointed.

Don and Jean Williams March/2006

 

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Bobby Joe and Maria – THANK YOU so much for everything! I had a great time, a great research trip, and out-drove the snow in about two hours – leaving it behind just south of Chicago or so. All in all, I was amazed at the phenomenally good weather I had for end of Feb/early March.

In any case, I plan to get out queries this month, and will send you copies.

Thank you SO MUCH for your generous hospitality. As soon as I have a feel for travel dates, I’ll let you know (I am thinking I will come back and stay again between mid-June and mid-August when Roxana is out of school).

Trudy Bell..Writer/Editor...Ohio

 

 

 

 

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Dear Maria and Bobby,

I am enclosing the rest of the pictures Art took at your BNB in January.

I hope you enjoy the pictures. We think they are beautiful. You live in a wonderful area.

It is beautiful here. The tulips are about 3-5 inches above the ground. The daffodils are about 5-6 inches tall and have some buds on them. The robins are all over the area and the females look fat with eggs.

I hope things are good for you at your bed and breakfast. We are looking forward to seeing you this summer. We hope everything is going well for you.

Sincerely,

Betty and Art    Des Plaines, IL March 25, 2006

 

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Thank you again for a much needed night of being away from anyone else's needs. It was fun to sit on the porch with all of you, watch the storm, and have a few too many beers in a place where I felt safe and comfortable. If you do a mailing list for events and specials, please add me. Hope I can make it out again soon.

Bobbie P    Craigslist Fan April 14, 2006

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"The Fox River Bed and Breakfast was a welcome surprise to myself and the group of ghost hunters that I brought with me to enjoy the weekend. Not only was the historic house more than we hoped for but the grounds, grotto and surrounding woods were fascinating to all of us with an interest in the history and mystery of Illinois. I also wanted to add that Bobby Joe and Maria were gracious and wonderful hosts and they went out of the way to make sure that everyone was happy and comfortable and had plenty to eat from the huge barbeque that we had around the campfire at sunset. I would highly recommend the Fox River Bed and Breakfast to anyone looking to "get away from it all" and to discover some of the forgotten elements of the Illinois River Valley region."

Troy Taylor, Bump in the Night Tours     April 25, 2006

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Fox River Bed and Breakfast has it all — gangsters, great scenery and Charles Lindbergh! Nestled at the edge of a woods near the Fox River, the beautiful 105-year-old historic house is a cozy, out-of-the-way retreat with charming hosts — Bobby Joe and Maria. You'll especially enjoy Maria's delightful British accent. Just behind the property is the old St. Joseph's Health Resort, which drew Chicago mobsters in the days of Al Capone. In fact, if Big Al was around today, I'm sure he'd pack his Tommy Gun into a violin case and make a beeline, not to St. Joe's, but to Bobby Joe's!

Dan Churney    Ottawa Dailey Times

You can find Dan's Excellent Book titled " Capone's Cornfields " by clicking on the Book

 

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We had a wonderful time at Fox River Bed And Breakfast thanks to Bobby Joe and Maria! If you are looking for a getaway in the country with comfortable place to eat and sleep, don't look any further! Estate is beautiful, close to the river, rooms are clean and food is delicious! You have to try Maria's breakfast bread pudding, its divine! Our four year old is begging me for more and I wish I can make something like that.

Fox River Bed And Breakfast is just minutes away from the most beautiful Starved Rock National Park. We are Lithuanians and I can only imagine celebrating Jonines there with friends and family: all day of hiking and fishing and spending the rest of the evening by the fire with good conversation, folk music, greasy Lithuanian food and few beers. Room rates are crazy inexpensive anyone can afford that. Estate is on 17 acres and there could be plenty of place to search for that magical fern bloom- paparcio ziedas.

These are some special guests that bartered beautiful perennials for a stay from Craigslist.. Thanks Craigslist fans!!

 

 

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This place was phenomenal! My fiancé and I originally came to camp, but then ended up staying in one of the rooms once it started to rain! Bobby Jo and Maria were gracious in welcoming us into their home. The best part about this place is that Bobby Jo and Maria really know the history of the area. Hearing them tell the tales of Al Capone's hangout, the sulfur springs, and the stations of the cross was very exciting. Maria and Bobby Jo gave us a walking tour of the area, explaining everything. We had a wonderful time - this place is highly recommended!

Jackie Aicher   Mt. Prospect, IL

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I desperately needed to get away from my busy Chicago lifestyle. Fox River Bed and Breakfast was the perfect escape! Bobby Joe and Maria are such wonderful hosts – their hospitality helped me to totally relax. From the moment we arrived, I felt at ease in the peaceful surroundings and comfortable home. My 3 year old son went wild over the open spaces and fresh air!

My room was great – I haven’t slept so comfortably in ages. Large guest rooms, huge closets, nice furnishings, and refrigerators mean you can relax in your room without having to leave.

The upstairs bathroom is amazing! So big and refreshing. The claw-foot tub was so large. I enjoyed a fantastic bubble bath by candlelight.

Did I mention Bobby Joe and Maria are both gourmet cooks? The food was out-of-this world. When we come back, we’ve asked Bobby Joe to make his world famous barbeque for us. I can’t wait…

The area is great too. An easily accessible vacation spot, we found many low-key enjoyable activities. We spent an afternoon at the local pool, which had a huge water slide. We walked around the town of Ottawa and enjoyed the local shops. We hiked around Starved Rock and even visited some exquisite wineries. I recommend August Hill.

My son enjoyed the nearby pig farm, where he got to pet pigs in a variety of sizes. Maria took us to visit some local horses, too. Next time we might consider riding horses at a nearby horse farm.

Hard to believe Fox River Bed and Breakfast is so close to Chicago, yet made me feel like I was so far away from the rat-race of my daily life. I can’t wait to go back!

Dawn Ferencak, Artist    July 14th, 2006

 

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Listening to musicians in the comfort of ones livingroom with the ability to really "connect" with an audience. Unique and revolutionary!! So, my friend David Hoffman (who spent many years playing with the great Ray Charles) and I decided to give performing in this unique venue a shot and it was great. The B & B guests loved the music and following the performance, they had many questions about all the exotic instruments we play, our 14 albums, and of course Ray Charles.

 

Being an aviation buff, I was tickled to have stayed in the same room Charles Lindberg slept in when he bailed out of his plane in 1926. Imagine sleeping in the same room as that great pioneer!!

The house was a cool piece of history and Maria and Bobby Joe were great hosts. Now the breakfast - ah, that was great. Never had Tea and Crumpits before. Yum Yum!! Why don't all Bed and Breakfasts offer something like this?? I can't imagine a better way to listen to live music. Hope we'll be back!

 

paul adams

david hoffman October 7, 2006

 

 

www.pauladams.org
www.davidhoffmanjazz.com
ppaulpadam@aol.com

Paul Adams - Lakefront Music

 

 

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Bobby Joe and Maria,

I was horribly negligent in not sending you a great big thank you for the visit we had to your property. My wife and I and 2 kids stayed in the camp site out back and that October visit was unforgettable. The weather was incredibly mild for that time of year, which was nice since we forgot the rain fly to our tent, but it was the evening with Paul Adams and David Hoffman that was priceless. I've told so many about the crazy combination of sleeping out under the stars and our rustic weekend combined with an evening in a living room listening and talking to two musical greats. I was awestruck by their talents and honored to be sitting in such a small group with them playing just for us. It was incredible as I felt like a kid meeting santa claus getting pictures with them at the end of the night to remember my good fortune. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your warm welcome and great generosity in sharing that wonderful experience with us. The camping was a pleasure, but I honestly look forward to coming back and listening to more music while enjoying the indoor comforts of your B&B.

 

Thanks again, Michael Baldwin  October 7th, 2006

 

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Hi Bobby Joe, I just want to thank you both again for the lovely time we had at your B & B. I have attached the picture of all of us.

 

Thank you so much!

Carol & Mark  October 14th, 2006

 

 

 

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Hi Maria,

 

I just wanted to write a short note to thank you for a wonderful weekend, and for really making our stay very enjoyable.

 

I have recommended your bed & breakfast to many people and have raved about what wonderful hosts you are, as well as fantastic cooks!

 

Thank you for everything, and we will definitely see you again.

 

Regards,

Candy Dedner   October 28th, 2006

 

 

 

 

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We arrived at Fox River B & B for the first time recently and were immediately made to feel at home. Within a short time we were relaxed and at ease, so much so that our planned short trips to explore the surrounding area were completely forgotten until it was time to go to the restaurant for a late dinner.

The wonderful hospitality shown us by Maria and Bobby Joe made us feel right at home. It was a pleasant surprise to find such a tranquil spot for a weekend of relaxation and celebration. As a consequence, we made the easy decision to stop our hurried approach to the week-end and spent much of our time relaxing and enjoying the
quiet together. We had a great time meeting new people, both young and more mature whom we now call friends. The conversations sharing past experiences were a delight and will be remembered.

 

David & Genevieve McIntyre
Manteno, Illinois
November 4-5, 2006

 

 

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A great place to relax and enjoy great company and conversation! The breakfast was fabulous! A wonderful place for a spiritual retreat!

 

 

Anita Margarita in Tinley Park

November 11th, 2006

 

 

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Jackie, Kim, Laura, Lisa, Kristen and Katie on their annual Girls Weekend Away. Jan. 07/2007

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"Everytime we camp at your place, we have a blast! Great services and food, always fun to be able to kick back and relax. So much stuff to do, you can stay a whole week"  Eric Case and Friends January 7, 2007

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Dear Charlotte and Bobby Joe,
Thank you for the wonderful visit, terrific hospitality and awesome food! I'm attaching the pictures I took. Feel free to use them on the web site.
The three days we spent with you were quiet and relaxing. The weather was damp and cold, but the hospitality was warm and caring. We enjoyed the good conversation. Charlotte's banana bread was yummy and the breakfast burritos and Huevos Azteca delicious. Thanks for the "Scooby snacks!" Bobby, you should bottle and sell your salsa!
It was great to get away from teaching for a while. I will highly recommend your B&B to everyone. If I had to grade Fox River BNB, it would look like this:
Cleanliness: A+
Friendliness: A+
Hospitality: A+
Breakfast: A+
Conversation:A+

Sincerely, Stewart and Garris Graham Urbana, IL April 2007

 

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I can speak on behalf of our whole group when I say thank you so very much for the BEST scrapbooking weekend our group "The Mad Scrappers", have ever had!!! A big THANK YOU to you and Charlotte from Christa, Deb, Diane, Kathy, Deb, Tyann and Cyndi! This was, by far, the BEST weekend -- lots of laughter, good company, excellent food, and a beautiful home! You and Charlotte made us feel pampered the minute we set foot in your B&B. You both made sure we were comfortable at all times. It was very hard for us to go home and get back to reality. We enjoyed your company, your stories and your awesome food! We would highly recommend Fox River Bed & Breakfast to anyone! We're looking forward to future scrapbooking weekends with you! My husband thanks you for the awesome tamales and the homemade salsa -- he doesn't want to share them with anyone!

Kathy Mulhall and friends   April, 2007

 

 

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Dear Bobby & Charlotte ,

Thank you so much for your relaxing hospitality! We have thoroughly enjoyed staying at your B&B and we are happy to have gotten to know both of you! The breakfast was the best we have ever had!! . Everything was so
comfortable and welcoming. We’ll hope to return and send our friends. Good luck and all the best Bobby &
Charlotte .

Thanks again .
OBA SSKZM April, 2007

 

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Charlotte and Bobby Joe,

Thank you so much for the awesome weekend!!!  The breakfast was delicious! I enjoyed staying in the tribal room, BEST room in the house, great decorations!!  You have a great location with so much to do!  The canoe trip down the Dells of the Fox was so fun and relaxing.  The trip to Starved Rock was beautiful!!  Thanks for a relaxing weekend!

 

P.S. Your organ playing is excellent! 

 

Katie

 

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Bobby Joe and Charlotte~
Well, were back in the race, and I'm back in my cubicle. I know, it sounds depressing, but I'm trying my damndest to get out. You see, I'm a teacher originally, but somehow I got myself in this corporate world that I now realize is not for me.
Anyway, that was the first "vacation" I've had in a long while, and it was amazing. I'm still feeling the effects of sleeping outside. Bobby Joe, you asked me what I liked about the camping, I like not having a lot of excess baggage, the fresh clean air, the sounds of birds and frogs and other critters, the mud between my toes, not looking in a mirror, no phones, tv, or computers, and in general, the simplicity of it all.
So, I'm recommending your fine establishment to certain people who will appreciate it.
I wish you and Charlotte all the best and Ashok, Meera, Mike, and I thank you for your kindness and hospitality!

Your Friend,
Sunita

P.S.
Here's a link to Ashok's music. Enjoy the rock!
http://www.myspace.com/ashokamusic

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Bobby Joe and Charlotte,

 

I appreciate all of your help planning the trip. It is nerve racking trying to please a group of 10 Chicagoans, but you helped make it a hit. The entire Inn rental is the way to go. It was clean, with large rooms, nice linens, and in the country. The hot sweet rolls for breakfast were a hit.

We stayed busy with rafting, dinning in Ottawa, and camp fires. Everyone left feeling great that we had an outdoor experience with the benefits of a cozy Inn. Hope to see you again soon.

Thanks for all of your help,
John

 

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www.artmidwest.com

 

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Just wanted to email & say again how great of a time we had over the weekend. You can count on us being regulars. We were thinking that being there for the ghost hunters would be cool. Let us know if it`s possible. If the rooms are all taken we could camp. We are telling everyone we see how much fun we had. We may even have a few friends who may join us next time. We will definitely be in touch soon. Thanks for everything!

 

 

 

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Bobby Joe and Charlotte, thank you for an awesome week! Below is our team group shot of all of us that stayed with you during our nationals skydiving competition where we won the 4-Way, the 8-Way, the 16-Way, the 10-way and the grand Cahona. We took it all!! Got a broom? It felt like home during our stay and it felt like we were with family. We all appreciated your breakfast delivery out to the drop zone. That was the ultimate! Come and see us in Arizona if you get the time. You are always welcome.

Craig Girard

Arizona Airspeed

Casa Grande, Arizona

www.airspeed.org

P.S. Hugs :) September14th, 2007

 

 

 

 

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Hello

I just wanted to thank you for such a GREAT weekend!  We all had such a good time and enjoyed ourselves so much!  Thank you for all of your hard work and wonderful company.  We are already excited about the next one!  Please put us down for the weekend in September that we discussed. Thank you, again, so much.  Take care, and we will see you soon!

Sincerely, Debbie Daly February 29th - March 2nd 2008

 

 

 

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Both myself and Mari had a wonderful stay, and would definitely return again. The room was very nice, and the added thrill of the chickens added to the rural aspect of the location, which was very relaxing. Sorry it took a while to get back to you but it has been very busy at work lately. Take care.

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Ricardo Rodriguez
Senior Field Engineer