A Winter Respite Retreat for Special-Needs Women Caregivers: A Gift of Rest Just a Short Drive from the Twin Cities

I wanted to share something that might be helpful for any moms out there who are full-time caregivers—especially those raising kids with special needs. If that’s you, or someone you love, you know how heavy and beautiful and exhausting this journey can be. And how rare it is to get true, uninterrupted rest! With special needs kids of my own, I can relate.

There’s a women’s respite weekend coming up January 9–12 at the New Day Dairy GuestBarn in North Iowa—about a three-hour drive from the Twin Cities. It’s hosted by A Mother’s Rest, and the whole purpose is simple: quiet, restorative downtime with other moms who “get it.” No schedule, no workshops, no pressure to participate in anything. Just space.

Cost

It’s also affordable ($165 for all three nights, and breakfast is included), which feels important because so many caregivers already carry so much.

When?

Friday, Jan 09, 2026, 3:00pm

through

Monday, Jan 12, 2026, 11:00am

Where?

New Day Dairy Guest Barn, 31000 175th St, Clarksville, IA 50619

It’s actually where my family and I stayed a couple years ago for a weekend! It’s a beautiful, comfortable place for everyone. Read about our visit here!

A Mother’s Rest describes their retreats in a way that really resonated with me:

“Respite isn’t just a period of time… it’s a place and a feeling… a quiet sanctuary of fellowship with others who truly understand the challenges of raising children with special needs. No schedule. No speakers. No planned anything. Just the kind of rest and decompression your body truly needs.”

If you know a mom who could really use a reset—or if you are that mom—this might be something worth passing along or even gifting for Christmas. Sometimes the best gift is simply the chance to breathe again.

Here’s the link with all the details:
https://www.amothersrest.org/events/2026-ia-new-day-guest-barn-jan-9

Sending love to all the caregivers out there who give so much.