Testimonials
Seamus is an incredibly thoughtful, kind, considerate, and knowledgeable host. We felt right at home and stayed up late into the night just chatting about life. He knew all of the best spots on the island and helped us map our weekend to spots we would otherwise have never found. There was no cell phone reception, internet, or TV and all we had to listen to were the wind in the trees and the occasional bird. It was an important lesson on what life is really about: experience, love, happiness, and connection. The energy on Beaver Island, Tara's Meadow, and from Seamus has left a mark on our lives and soul's forever. We will be back."
From Kristi, Windsor, Canada · August 2016 ·
"Seamus met us at ferry station and lead us to his house. he was very friendly. his house was very secluded, clean, we enjoyed the stay."
From Qun, Canton, MI · August 2016 ·
"Seamus was such a gracious host and very attentive to all of my needs. The house was warm and welcoming and I felt no stress whatsoever, coming in and making myself comfortable and right at home. My room was so cozy and comfortable, I slept like a baby! The house was clean and cozy, filled with loving, positive energy and all the amenities I needed for my time on Beaver Island. Seamus is so very knowledgeable about the island and was excited to share all of what the island has to offer, from beaches to hiking trials, delicious restaurants to visit, and people to meet. I had a perfect visit, with the balance of solitude and social time. I can't say enough, he is a wonderful host."
From Maggie, Ann Arbor, MI · August 2016 ·
"This is by far the best experience I have had on airbnb. Tara's Meadow is a very special place, and Seamus is extraordinarily generous and gracious host: He picked us up from the ferry, cooked dinner for us on the night we arrived, and took us on a tour of the island. He is passionate about ecology and the island's history, very easy to talk to, and a warm and compassionate person. That said, he also respected our privacy and gave us our space when we needed it. Tara's Meadow is about 20-30 minutes drive from St. James, located in a remote and peaceful part of the island. The meadow itself is very beautiful, but it is also close to gorgeous sand beaches, several pristine inland lakes, and a beaver marsh--the natural beauty at Beaver island can't be matched, and Tara's Meadow is a great home base from which to explore it. This was a unique experience that we will never forget. Thank you so much, Seamus!"
From Greg, Iowa City, IA · August 2016 ·
"I had a great stay at Tara's Meadow. Seamus was a very welcoming host – he met me at the harbor as I was departing from the ferry, and even let me join a historical tour he was giving free of charge. It was easy to coordinate my trip with Seamus (a fair bit of coordination is required for trips to the Island due to the ferry schedule and poor cell reception), and he was generally very helpful. I had a good time preparing dinner with him and dining on his canopy-level balcony in the forest. The house is remote, deep in the woods on the south end of the island. A car is necessary to reach the house from St. James, where the ferry drops you off. A public transit shuttle can be arranged, and I was actually able to rent a truck for the day from one of the Islanders. The space itself is very nice. The main area of the lower level is a comfortable living space and kitchen, with the guest bedroom off to the side. The main space of the upper level is an open meditation/yoga space; Seamus' room is off to the side on the upper floor. The guest bed was a little soft for my taste, but complaining about that is picking nits."
From Milan, Ann Arbor, MI · August 2016 ·
"My husband and I couldn't have pictured a more wonderful first time to Beaver Island. Seamus and his partner Amy went above and beyond with their hospitality - supplying hot breakfasts, giving us rides in the back of their pickup truck, making recommendations on what to see, and just being darn good people to be around. Our experience of the island was that much richer with Seamus's company and knowledge. The house itself was a comfortable, quiet place, tucked way into the woods, with a great space for reading upstairs while looking out at the trees. One practical tip for fellow travelers: Tara's meadow is 10 miles from town (with its restaurants and amenities), which is at least a solid hour by bike. If that's too much cycling for you, a car is a must-have! We heartily, heartily recommend this place."
From Faye, Ann Arbor, MI · July 2016 ·
"WORDS alone are insufficient to describe how wonderful this space is and how awesome Seamus is as a host. Much love and an entire island community contributed to the creation of the Lodge at Tara's Meadow. The place and space alone are enough to ease the stresses and tensions that tend to blur our everyday lives into an oblivion of constant running around - but when you add the grace of Seamus the host - you have a recipe for a guaranteed great time! Time slows down here. In fact, leave the watch, phone, and laptop at the airport, and enter God's Time on Tara's Meadow to rekindle that which REALLY matters to you! The pictures do not do justice to how beautiful the Lodge and Meadow really are - you just have to experience it. I have three degrees and run a business - in no way am I being reimbursed for this review - I am speaking from the heart - if you found this review - then you DEFINITELY need to visit this place! Get out of the constant hustle and bustle, catch a fifteen minute flight to the island, ask to sit in the copilot's seat on the plane, and get ready for the best adventure the Midwest has to offer! Seamus is the best host! He also does tours of the island and lives an intimate and very real connection to the history of the island and the history of Ancient Europe in general. When I asked for a much needed retreat here, Seamus first met with me to plan out every meal - fresh whitefish from Lake Michigan from the local deli on the island, blueberries from the mainland, herbs from the island, he is the most gracious host offering to split the cost of food. Seamus lives humility and grace. He walks and talks the island traditions. Take advantage of this amazing situation while you still can! As I said, I have several degrees, one in biochemistry and environmental chemistry, and I call Seattle a second home, so I am not easily impressed to say the least. But for me to have this much good to say about a place - and to say that my words are an understatement - truly reveals the impressive quality, the attention to detail, and amazing grace that is all that Seamus and Tara's Meadow have to offer. Invite the whole family! You will not regret it! In fact, like me, you will be eagerly awaiting your next visit! Plane ride and all, this place and this host are hands down AWESOME!"
From Jen, Petoskey, MI · September 2015 ·
"Seamus was an incredible host, sharing his beautiful home and retreat center in the nurturing woods and dazzling wildflower meadow. I immediately felt at home at Tara's with a delightful balance of great conversations, explorations of trails, lakes and blueberry patches, intervals of solitude and journaling, and trips into town to catch art shows, live music, chats with locals at the library or pub. The room itself was spacious and inspiring, hexagonal design, upper floor, among the tall trees and sunlight, perfect for yoga or hanging out on the balcony with a good book. The first floor room is more intimate and cozy and another great option to explore my next trip. Seamus enjoys good wholesome food which made for delicious breakfasts, snacks and dinners. My five days felt expansive and timeless at Tara's Meadow thanks to Seamus and his care and attentiveness to place, space, and people."
From Tawnya
"Seamus followed up our reservation request immediately and was very helpful all the way through the process of making the arrangements to go to Beaver Island. He is a wealth of knowledge about the island's past and present, since he is a historian of the island and very involved in current efforts to develop tourism--particularly ecotourism--on the island. He offered to pick us up at the airport, but we ended up bringing our own car over on the ferry. He was very helpful in giving us directions and even came out to the road to catch us as we drove up. He spared no effort to make us comfortable and was a very amiable host and conversationalist. When we came back in the evening from exploring the island, he offered us snacks and stayed up talking with us until we were ready to retire. He made us a delicious breakfast in the morning and gave us the run of the place until we were ready to leave. In sum, Seamus was a perfect host, a gentle, amiable, and engaging man who can tell his guests anything they want to know about life on Beaver Island, past and present."
From Timothy
"'Enter as strangers, leave as friends.' This quote beautifully summarizes my stay with Seamus at Tara's Meadow on Beaver Island. Seamus was my host for 12-days. I went into the time with some very specific requests. I wanted a space surrounded by nature where I could spend a large portion of my time in silence. Seamus accommodated my request with the perfect balance of checking-in surrounded with lots of time and space for me to be on my own. Tara's Meadow is a beautiful, off-the-grid cabin with all of the essential amenities of home and Seamus knows how to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all who pass through his door! I highly recommend staying with Seamus!"
From April - August 2014
“Seamus, I want to thank you from the heart for this magical and rejuvenating experience. It’s exactly what my soul needed. Your wisdom, patience, and guidance has helped me to grow and strengthen my connection to the divine life force which connects us all. I look forward to my next visit.”
- Lori (counselor)
“When the student is ready, the master appears. Thank you for being my master for the day. The knowledge and wisdom taken from our day is priceless. I will ‘pass it on.’”
- Dee (Yoga instructor, after Celtic Body Prayers work)
“Seamus demonstrated great compassion and understanding, as well as skill in clarifying a particular issue. He patiently tolerated the unfolding of my awareness and inner struggles, and was accepting of my confusion and discomfort. He enthusiastically shared his wisdom and strategies, such as the 3-fold Path.“
- Susan (occupational therapist)
”Seamus is a magnificent counselor, one of the best!”
- Charlie (counselor)
"Wonderful, insightful experience as always. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts, fears, joy, and creativity. You are a special, magical person Seamus! Looking forward to more adventures with you!”
- Patrick (film maker, entrepreneur)
“Seamus’ teaching and guidance is as it should be. He pushes where pushing is needed, and he gives me needed time alone to assimilate what I’ve experienced.”
- Rowan (tradesman)
“Seamus was the reason I ventured into Tara's Meadow. His ability to be honest, patient, and thoughtful about my experiences is something I am very grateful for. I needed someone to be both forthright and sensitive and I am so happy that Seamus has these abilities. Thank you!”
- Gillian (midwife and activist)
“Seamus is a real ‘counselor’s counselor.’ ”
- Michael (counselor)
From Kristi, Windsor, Canada · August 2016 ·
"Seamus met us at ferry station and lead us to his house. he was very friendly. his house was very secluded, clean, we enjoyed the stay."
From Qun, Canton, MI · August 2016 ·
"Seamus was such a gracious host and very attentive to all of my needs. The house was warm and welcoming and I felt no stress whatsoever, coming in and making myself comfortable and right at home. My room was so cozy and comfortable, I slept like a baby! The house was clean and cozy, filled with loving, positive energy and all the amenities I needed for my time on Beaver Island. Seamus is so very knowledgeable about the island and was excited to share all of what the island has to offer, from beaches to hiking trials, delicious restaurants to visit, and people to meet. I had a perfect visit, with the balance of solitude and social time. I can't say enough, he is a wonderful host."
From Maggie, Ann Arbor, MI · August 2016 ·
"This is by far the best experience I have had on airbnb. Tara's Meadow is a very special place, and Seamus is extraordinarily generous and gracious host: He picked us up from the ferry, cooked dinner for us on the night we arrived, and took us on a tour of the island. He is passionate about ecology and the island's history, very easy to talk to, and a warm and compassionate person. That said, he also respected our privacy and gave us our space when we needed it. Tara's Meadow is about 20-30 minutes drive from St. James, located in a remote and peaceful part of the island. The meadow itself is very beautiful, but it is also close to gorgeous sand beaches, several pristine inland lakes, and a beaver marsh--the natural beauty at Beaver island can't be matched, and Tara's Meadow is a great home base from which to explore it. This was a unique experience that we will never forget. Thank you so much, Seamus!"
From Greg, Iowa City, IA · August 2016 ·
"I had a great stay at Tara's Meadow. Seamus was a very welcoming host – he met me at the harbor as I was departing from the ferry, and even let me join a historical tour he was giving free of charge. It was easy to coordinate my trip with Seamus (a fair bit of coordination is required for trips to the Island due to the ferry schedule and poor cell reception), and he was generally very helpful. I had a good time preparing dinner with him and dining on his canopy-level balcony in the forest. The house is remote, deep in the woods on the south end of the island. A car is necessary to reach the house from St. James, where the ferry drops you off. A public transit shuttle can be arranged, and I was actually able to rent a truck for the day from one of the Islanders. The space itself is very nice. The main area of the lower level is a comfortable living space and kitchen, with the guest bedroom off to the side. The main space of the upper level is an open meditation/yoga space; Seamus' room is off to the side on the upper floor. The guest bed was a little soft for my taste, but complaining about that is picking nits."
From Milan, Ann Arbor, MI · August 2016 ·
"My husband and I couldn't have pictured a more wonderful first time to Beaver Island. Seamus and his partner Amy went above and beyond with their hospitality - supplying hot breakfasts, giving us rides in the back of their pickup truck, making recommendations on what to see, and just being darn good people to be around. Our experience of the island was that much richer with Seamus's company and knowledge. The house itself was a comfortable, quiet place, tucked way into the woods, with a great space for reading upstairs while looking out at the trees. One practical tip for fellow travelers: Tara's meadow is 10 miles from town (with its restaurants and amenities), which is at least a solid hour by bike. If that's too much cycling for you, a car is a must-have! We heartily, heartily recommend this place."
From Faye, Ann Arbor, MI · July 2016 ·
"WORDS alone are insufficient to describe how wonderful this space is and how awesome Seamus is as a host. Much love and an entire island community contributed to the creation of the Lodge at Tara's Meadow. The place and space alone are enough to ease the stresses and tensions that tend to blur our everyday lives into an oblivion of constant running around - but when you add the grace of Seamus the host - you have a recipe for a guaranteed great time! Time slows down here. In fact, leave the watch, phone, and laptop at the airport, and enter God's Time on Tara's Meadow to rekindle that which REALLY matters to you! The pictures do not do justice to how beautiful the Lodge and Meadow really are - you just have to experience it. I have three degrees and run a business - in no way am I being reimbursed for this review - I am speaking from the heart - if you found this review - then you DEFINITELY need to visit this place! Get out of the constant hustle and bustle, catch a fifteen minute flight to the island, ask to sit in the copilot's seat on the plane, and get ready for the best adventure the Midwest has to offer! Seamus is the best host! He also does tours of the island and lives an intimate and very real connection to the history of the island and the history of Ancient Europe in general. When I asked for a much needed retreat here, Seamus first met with me to plan out every meal - fresh whitefish from Lake Michigan from the local deli on the island, blueberries from the mainland, herbs from the island, he is the most gracious host offering to split the cost of food. Seamus lives humility and grace. He walks and talks the island traditions. Take advantage of this amazing situation while you still can! As I said, I have several degrees, one in biochemistry and environmental chemistry, and I call Seattle a second home, so I am not easily impressed to say the least. But for me to have this much good to say about a place - and to say that my words are an understatement - truly reveals the impressive quality, the attention to detail, and amazing grace that is all that Seamus and Tara's Meadow have to offer. Invite the whole family! You will not regret it! In fact, like me, you will be eagerly awaiting your next visit! Plane ride and all, this place and this host are hands down AWESOME!"
From Jen, Petoskey, MI · September 2015 ·
"Seamus was an incredible host, sharing his beautiful home and retreat center in the nurturing woods and dazzling wildflower meadow. I immediately felt at home at Tara's with a delightful balance of great conversations, explorations of trails, lakes and blueberry patches, intervals of solitude and journaling, and trips into town to catch art shows, live music, chats with locals at the library or pub. The room itself was spacious and inspiring, hexagonal design, upper floor, among the tall trees and sunlight, perfect for yoga or hanging out on the balcony with a good book. The first floor room is more intimate and cozy and another great option to explore my next trip. Seamus enjoys good wholesome food which made for delicious breakfasts, snacks and dinners. My five days felt expansive and timeless at Tara's Meadow thanks to Seamus and his care and attentiveness to place, space, and people."
From Tawnya
"Seamus followed up our reservation request immediately and was very helpful all the way through the process of making the arrangements to go to Beaver Island. He is a wealth of knowledge about the island's past and present, since he is a historian of the island and very involved in current efforts to develop tourism--particularly ecotourism--on the island. He offered to pick us up at the airport, but we ended up bringing our own car over on the ferry. He was very helpful in giving us directions and even came out to the road to catch us as we drove up. He spared no effort to make us comfortable and was a very amiable host and conversationalist. When we came back in the evening from exploring the island, he offered us snacks and stayed up talking with us until we were ready to retire. He made us a delicious breakfast in the morning and gave us the run of the place until we were ready to leave. In sum, Seamus was a perfect host, a gentle, amiable, and engaging man who can tell his guests anything they want to know about life on Beaver Island, past and present."
From Timothy
"'Enter as strangers, leave as friends.' This quote beautifully summarizes my stay with Seamus at Tara's Meadow on Beaver Island. Seamus was my host for 12-days. I went into the time with some very specific requests. I wanted a space surrounded by nature where I could spend a large portion of my time in silence. Seamus accommodated my request with the perfect balance of checking-in surrounded with lots of time and space for me to be on my own. Tara's Meadow is a beautiful, off-the-grid cabin with all of the essential amenities of home and Seamus knows how to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all who pass through his door! I highly recommend staying with Seamus!"
From April - August 2014
“Seamus, I want to thank you from the heart for this magical and rejuvenating experience. It’s exactly what my soul needed. Your wisdom, patience, and guidance has helped me to grow and strengthen my connection to the divine life force which connects us all. I look forward to my next visit.”
- Lori (counselor)
“When the student is ready, the master appears. Thank you for being my master for the day. The knowledge and wisdom taken from our day is priceless. I will ‘pass it on.’”
- Dee (Yoga instructor, after Celtic Body Prayers work)
“Seamus demonstrated great compassion and understanding, as well as skill in clarifying a particular issue. He patiently tolerated the unfolding of my awareness and inner struggles, and was accepting of my confusion and discomfort. He enthusiastically shared his wisdom and strategies, such as the 3-fold Path.“
- Susan (occupational therapist)
”Seamus is a magnificent counselor, one of the best!”
- Charlie (counselor)
"Wonderful, insightful experience as always. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts, fears, joy, and creativity. You are a special, magical person Seamus! Looking forward to more adventures with you!”
- Patrick (film maker, entrepreneur)
“Seamus’ teaching and guidance is as it should be. He pushes where pushing is needed, and he gives me needed time alone to assimilate what I’ve experienced.”
- Rowan (tradesman)
“Seamus was the reason I ventured into Tara's Meadow. His ability to be honest, patient, and thoughtful about my experiences is something I am very grateful for. I needed someone to be both forthright and sensitive and I am so happy that Seamus has these abilities. Thank you!”
- Gillian (midwife and activist)
“Seamus is a real ‘counselor’s counselor.’ ”
- Michael (counselor)
"My stay went well from start to finish. I felt you were an excellent host and delightfully shared your love for the island's history and natural beauty . . .Your home is simple yet ever so functional and enchanting. I loved sleeping in the upper floor and doing the private work up there also. The shamanic journey backwards and forwards were both meaningful . . . the wood floors and ceilings are warm and calming . . .You easily conveyed your sense of love for the land and the enchantment seemingly found everywhere."
-- Terry Malloy, guest sojourner at Tara's Meadow
GUEST SOJOURNERS AT TARA’S Each summer we are blessed to host “in house” guests on personal sojourn to the island. They come for a variety of reasons and experiences. Rowan came to master the shamanic movement meditation called “the Wizard’s Dance” – a powerful daily exercise that breathes movement, life and fire into the ancient Celtic Song of Amergin . . .“My time at Tara’s Meadow can be described in one word: Magical. Seamus is an exemplary host. The food was superb, and his teaching and guidance with the Wizard’s Dance is as it should be. He pushes where pushing is needed, and he gives me needed time alone to assimilate what I’ve experienced. Seamus' island tour was wonderful too.”
-- Rowan O’Daugherty, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
Laura came to experience the beauty and serenity of nature. Our 12-mile bike ride together took her to some of the island’s most beautiful inland lakes and historical places. Laura’s photos of butterflies, white lilies, and a soaring bald eagle overhead were part of the treasures we shared afterwards with a good meal, wine, and well-earned rest back at Tara’s . . . “Tara’s Meadow is a beautiful land and home. The house is an easy space to be in, and Seamus is knowledgeable about the island’s history and nature. He is a gentle and considerate host, and I will be back.”
-- Laura Bouch, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
Gillian had just returned to the States from India, where she performed peace work with a non-governmental service organization. Her time in India had raised some key life questions and she came out to Tara’s on a personal soul-search . . . “Seamus was the reason I ventured out to Tara's Meadow. His ability to be honest, patient, and thoughtful about my experiences is something I am very grateful for. I needed someone to be both forthright and sensitive . . . Thank you Seamus, Thank you Tara’s Meadow for being so wonderful! You were just what I needed!
-- Gillian Garson, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
“I love lending a hand as visitors come to play and explore the sacred beauty of Beaver Island. It's a joy for me too, when I'm asked also to serve and assist folks who are seeking greater clarity and healing in their lives. It's the work I'm meant to do, and now we have the most beautiful space I can imagine to do it in” - Seamus
-- Terry Malloy, guest sojourner at Tara's Meadow
GUEST SOJOURNERS AT TARA’S Each summer we are blessed to host “in house” guests on personal sojourn to the island. They come for a variety of reasons and experiences. Rowan came to master the shamanic movement meditation called “the Wizard’s Dance” – a powerful daily exercise that breathes movement, life and fire into the ancient Celtic Song of Amergin . . .“My time at Tara’s Meadow can be described in one word: Magical. Seamus is an exemplary host. The food was superb, and his teaching and guidance with the Wizard’s Dance is as it should be. He pushes where pushing is needed, and he gives me needed time alone to assimilate what I’ve experienced. Seamus' island tour was wonderful too.”
-- Rowan O’Daugherty, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
Laura came to experience the beauty and serenity of nature. Our 12-mile bike ride together took her to some of the island’s most beautiful inland lakes and historical places. Laura’s photos of butterflies, white lilies, and a soaring bald eagle overhead were part of the treasures we shared afterwards with a good meal, wine, and well-earned rest back at Tara’s . . . “Tara’s Meadow is a beautiful land and home. The house is an easy space to be in, and Seamus is knowledgeable about the island’s history and nature. He is a gentle and considerate host, and I will be back.”
-- Laura Bouch, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
Gillian had just returned to the States from India, where she performed peace work with a non-governmental service organization. Her time in India had raised some key life questions and she came out to Tara’s on a personal soul-search . . . “Seamus was the reason I ventured out to Tara's Meadow. His ability to be honest, patient, and thoughtful about my experiences is something I am very grateful for. I needed someone to be both forthright and sensitive . . . Thank you Seamus, Thank you Tara’s Meadow for being so wonderful! You were just what I needed!
-- Gillian Garson, guest sojourner at Tara’s Meadow
“I love lending a hand as visitors come to play and explore the sacred beauty of Beaver Island. It's a joy for me too, when I'm asked also to serve and assist folks who are seeking greater clarity and healing in their lives. It's the work I'm meant to do, and now we have the most beautiful space I can imagine to do it in” - Seamus
