A Mother's Rest

Throughout the year, we provide weekend respites for moms of special-needs children. Many of the returning moms have become lifelong friends of ours.

After a few visits, many of the returning moms have formed an esprit de corps with the other moms, to use a military term.

We finally got some of the moms to appear on camera during last month's Winterfest here in Ocean City. I'd like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to Janet, Isabelle, and Tuli for opening up on camera to share their stories and perspective. They've made this our most special film to date.

I'd also like to thank Claudia and Scott, better known as Oct28 productions. Beyond their filming and production prowess, they have a unique talent for drawing out people's own personalities on camera.

Also featured in this film is Monica, our assistant innkeeper. She's the glue that holds these weekend respites together. She shows up way before and stays way past her normal shift to make sure the moms are taken care of.

And, of course, the lady that started this all. Andrea Faris Roberts founded A Mother's Rest. With the motto that "You can't pour from an empty cup" she knows firsthand that you can't be an effective caregiver without putting in some self-care time.

Mostly, I'd like to thank Andrea for introducing us to these special moms. Even though it's our job to take care of them for a weekend, they're always looking out for us, mentally, physically, and spiritually. I'd be lost this year without their friendship.

Enjoy the film. Have some Kleenex on hand.