Retreats

There are no specific dates at this time. Here is our thinking on retreats.

When Erika first died, one of the things that seemed to die with her was having fun on vacations, especially because she wasn't there, but also because I was always on guard not to talk too much about her, not to upset others who deserved to have fun, and all of the other things you all know too well. I then began to notice that whenever I was away from home with other parents who had also lost a child, I did much better and even enjoyed myself at times. Why?

Like Hearts

Being with "Like Hearts" is the key. Because we were all together as parents who had lost a child, we were safe, relaxed, understood, not judged, and knew we could do or be any way, and it was just fine.

The end result was miraculous--a treasure that we all hold as dear and precious. After all "Like Hearts" really do "get it." We sat by streams and pools, had massages, did some writing exercises together, read books, took naps, ate amazing meals, drank wine, talked about our children, and anything else we felt or did not feel like doing. We were completely and utterly free for those two days together to say, do, or be whoever we were! And it was heavenly.

It has always been my dream and plan to put together a parents' retreat. Well, that time has come. Now that we have tried it ourselves and know how amazing it is given the right setting and people, griefHaven is ready to indulge all parents in this wonderful experience. Don't think old school, new agey, uncomfortable beds and rooms retreat; NOT AT ALL! Think luxury, affordable, healing, laughter, indulgence, great food, new friends, doing nothing or everything, freedom, safety, nonjudgmental, spiritual, fun, beautiful surroundings, comfort, and, most importantly, "Like Hearts."

This is something we dream of doing, yet the cost of committing to a place, not knowing whether others are interested, is risky. Honestly, we are ready to go and would put something on the schedule right away if we knew we had a large enough group. So, if you are interested in attending a retreat in your area, please email Brenda at brenda@griefHaven.org. We will keep a list and keep you posted!

We have many ideas of what will occur while we are together, but any ideas YOU have are what matters most to us. So please send all of your ideas to swhitmore@griefHaven.org. AND if you would like to help us organize either of these retreats, please contact Susan Whitmore at the same email address.

Here are just a few photos from our last retreat. Please plan to join us on our next one!Erika's Mom (Susan Whitmore)