Eugene O'Neill and Carlotta Monterey O'Neill shared twelve years that he called a journey into light and love, and in the dedication of Long Day's Journey into Night on their 12th wedding anniversary he expressed his gratitude and love for her. At Tao House, which O'Neill called Carlotta's masterpiece, the native Californian chose a distinctive design blending Spanish-colonial and Chinese influences for their new home. So that he could devote himself fully to writing, Carlotta managed the house and servants, typed his manuscripts, and shielded him from unwanted guests. Among the few visitors to Tao House were O'Neill's three children from former marriages, Eugene, Jr., Oona, and Shane. Carlotta called herself his wife, mistress, housekeeper, secretary, friend, and nurse, and during their years at Tao House she filled all of these roles while nurturing and caring for him as he descended into the darkest recesses of his soul to create his finest tragedies.