When Country Willows Innkeeper Linda Kilcollins first became aware of A Mother’s Rest it resonated with her on many personal levels. “I’ve been a foster parent and later adopted a child and I understand firsthand the need for self-care.”
A Mother’s Rest (AMR) was founded in 2017 by Andrea Roberts, the mother of two boys, one with Down’s Syndrome. Roberts understood the importance of being able to take time to recover from the stresses of caregiving. AMR is comprised of more than 40 so-called “Porch Partners.” These are Bed and Breakfast Inns that offer three-day respite retreats for $165 per person TOTAL which includes a delicious breakfast each morning. That’s less than what an average one-night stay would normally cost.
Although the name of the organization mentions “mothers”, a caregiver could also be a father or an adoptive or foster parent. A family member caring for children or adults with disabilities or special needs or caring for their parents or partner are all considered caregivers and eligible to participate.
Country Willows held its first AMR retreat this past November. Nine caregivers from Seattle to Sacramento took advantage of a well-deserved respite. Each guest gets their own private room and although the Inn offers interesting and relaxing activities, no one is required to participate. “If someone wants to stay in their room and sleep the entire time, that’s OK. It’s all about rest,” said Kilcollins.
She’s looking forward to hosting the next AMR retreat. “I'm proud we are ‘porch partners’ and can offer caregivers a place to rest, relax and rejuvenate,” says Kilcollins.
Visit A Mother’s Rest for more information or contact Country Willows at 541-488-1590.
