A Mum's Perspective

What did Ripple Retreat mean to our family?

HOPE
Looking forward to escaping to Ripple Retreat was like a wonderful beacon of hope when life was difficult. It was such a comfort to have something on the calendar that represented a break from the challenges of post-treatment life. Even being able to make the plan for our trip there felt like a luxury after living life week to week in hospital. 

PEACE

The retreat is a sanctuary.

It is a space to exhale. A chance to come out of survival mode. To notice the calm quiet of nature; to breathe it in. It’s the early morning deer, the changing light on the water. Enveloped by the shores of the Loch, reflecting and letting go seem possible. The gift of time and space to appreciate how far we have come and how brave we were. 

FREEDOM

It is the freedom to play. Hurtling across the flying fox. Dens in the closets, peekaboo in the tent. Sunset table tennis. Wellies full of Loch water, stones skimmed across the ripples. Feasts around the table. A treasure trove of stories capturing wee imaginations. Watching the ducks playing Duck Duck Goose. 

GENEROSITY

As the poem on the wall says; kindness hides in every corner. Generosity is written on the windows. Names of those we may never meet. Those who have selflessly given of their time and resources to bring comfort to others. We found every bit. From the comfort of a handcrafted mug to the rainbow of light through the blinds. The house feels is too; a generous space to bless those who need it.

CARE

It is the most thoughtful space. Every inch considered. The love in the space is tangible. Those who created and care for the retreat went before us and loved us well. They knew what we needed better than we knew ourselves. They valued us and our experiences. To feel so seen, known, and well cared for, that is the magic of It’s good 2 give. 

JOY

It’s 100 little snippets of joy that are strung together to make something so meaningful. Giggles echoing down the corridor; moments that become memories. At bed time each night our daughter now says, “I’m going to sleep, to dream of my holiday.” The peace of the retreat has rippled into our everyday.