In a world where the definition of family continues to evolve, two single moms in Maryland are rewriting the script on post-divorce life. Holly Harper and Herrin Hopper decided to turn their long-standing friendship into a shared solution to the challenges of single parenthood. Together, they purchased an $800,000 home and embraced a unique way of living as platonic life partners.
A Fresh Start in a Shared Home
After their divorces, Harper and Hopper faced the usual hurdles of single parenting: juggling responsibilities, managing finances, and ensuring their kids felt supported. Instead of tackling these struggles alone, they pooled their resources and bought what they now call “The Mermaid House.”
This living arrangement allows them to divide responsibilities like childcare, household tasks, and the emotional weight of running a family. The concept, often referred to as a “momune” (a communal setup for single moms), is gaining traction as single parents find strength in numbers. For Harper and Hopper, it wasn’t just about practicality—it was about creating a nurturing home for their children while finding a sense of stability for themselves.
The Power of Friendship
The decision to live together was rooted in a friendship that had spanned years. Both women knew they could rely on each other, not just as co-parents but as trusted partners in life. Their kids—Harper’s ten-year-old daughter and Hopper’s two children, aged 10 and 15—also benefit from this setup, growing up in a house filled with love, laughter, and support.
They share a common living area for family moments but have their own private spaces: Harper and her daughter live on the first floor, while Hopper and her kids occupy the second. This balance of togetherness and personal space makes the arrangement work seamlessly.
To add an extra layer to their dynamic, the house even includes a basement apartment they rent out, adding financial security and another dimension to their community-driven lifestyle.
The Mermaid House: A Symbol of Strength
Naming their home The Mermaid House was no random choice. Mermaids, with their mythical strength and allure, reflect the spirit of their unconventional family unit. The name captures the essence of their shared journey: bold, mysterious, and beautifully resilient.
This creative approach to home life isn’t just about managing day-to-day logistics; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration. By sharing their lives, Harper and Hopper have created a sanctuary where their children thrive, and where they, too, find companionship and support.
Rethinking What Family Means
The story of The Mermaid House is about more than two moms making it work. It challenges traditional ideas of family, proving that bonds forged through trust and friendship can be as strong as those born of blood. For these women, family is about who you choose to share your life with—who you can count on when times are tough and who celebrates your wins alongside you.
In a world that often isolates single parents, their decision is both radical and inspiring. By sharing their resources and emotional bandwidth, they’ve found a way to thrive while creating a home where their children can feel loved and secure.
What We Can Learn from Their Story
Holly Harper and Herrin Hopper’s story resonates deeply in an era where many are rethinking traditional lifestyles. Their success as platonic life partners serves as a reminder that happiness and stability often come from unconventional paths. Whether it’s co-buying a house, sharing childcare, or simply offering mutual support, their partnership is proof that community is a cornerstone of resilience.
For anyone facing the challenges of single parenthood or simply looking for creative ways to share life’s burdens, their journey is a beacon of hope. Would you consider a similar arrangement with a close friend? Let’s talk about it—share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
