I did it. I really pushed this human out of me. The hard part is over… or so I thought.

I stared down at my precious Sydney, still in awe that this tiny being who grew inside me for nine months was now cradled against my chest. My nose stayed imprinted into her soft head; I couldn't get enough of her perfect scent.

I enjoyed my blissful bubble of being pampered in bed, contact naps, and nourishing myself with lots of warm meals that my husband cooked for me. My mom even flew into town to help us around the house, doing the dishes and laundry and holding the baby while I showered.  

I blinked; two weeks passed and the bubble popped. The midwives left. My mom flew back home. My husband went back to work. It’s just me and this baby, and I’ve never felt more terrified and alone. What do I do now?

There’s not much I can do while breastfeeding besides doom scroll. So I hopped on Google and searched for local mom groups in Jacksonville Beach, desperate to find some sort of community. That’s when I discovered The Enchanted Cottage. It was their slogan that intrigued me: “Your Village Awaits.”

I scrolled through the website and saw so many happy mamas gathered on comfy couches, snuggling their babies, laughing. Their Instagram is full of clips of the same. I craved to be part of that. To not only not be alone, but surrounded by other moms who get what I’m going through. 

Another week passed, and I decided I was over being alone in my house and in my head. With Sydney strapped to my chest, I finally mustered up the courage and walked through the doors of The Enchanted Cottage. My gaze flickered to the adorable woodland creatures painted along the front desk, and behind it stood the kindest young woman named Jasmine. She greeted Sydney and I warmly, her smile brighter than the Florida sun. “Since it’s just you and your newborn, it’s completely free for you to just hang out here! Make yourself at home!”

Another young girl behind the desk with a much bigger baby strapped to her chest complimented me: “You’re glowing!” My cheeks heated. I was flattered yet taken aback; I'm still getting used to my postpartum body and didn’t feel very beautiful these days. 

She told me her name is Carly and walked me through the gate. I glanced around “the meadow” she told me it’s called; it’s like a giant living room, but with other people! A feeling of peace washed over me–from the soft, happy colors on the wall, to the calming classical music, to the giggly toddlers trotting around in tie-dye capes and crowns. Moms rested on velvet and leather couches. Some were chatting. Some were crocheting. Some were chatting while crocheting. Some faces were weary and tired; I recognized that face because I wore it often these days. But there wasn’t a need to hide it here. So many moms, however, looked happy, relaxed, refreshed, even. It gave me hope to know that that might be possible for me here, too. 

I sat down on the empty grey loveseat. “We have organic coffee and tea! Would you like me to make you a cup?” Carly asked. 

“Coffee sounds lovely,” I replied, already salivating.

While she went to fetch me a cup, three moms on the couches adjacent to me complimented my baby wrap and asked her name and how old she was. “Sydney, she’s six weeks,” I replied. “How are you doing?” one of the moms nursing what looked to be a six-month-old baby asked. She asked genuinely, like she didn’t want me to just say I’m good. For the first time, I didn't feel like I had to lie. “It’s harder than I expected,” I say. “I’m tired and I feel really alone most of the time.”

She nodded sympathetically. “I know exactly how you feel. I was in your shoes too. I was so lonely as a first time mom after my husband went back to work, and I didn’t have any mom friends when we moved to Jacksonville. When I had my second, coming to The Cottage was my saving grace.” She grinned at the other moms. “I instantly clicked with all of these ladies, and now coming here is our favorite part of every day!”

Carly handed me my coffee, the smell of it even more delicious than my baby’s head. “I would love to hear your birth story if you’d like to share it,” she said so genuinely. My heart nearly melted into a puddle. “No one has asked me, but I’ve actually been dying to talk about it.”

She smiled. So did I. I have a feeling that I’m going to be right at home here.

-

I squeal with pride and joy watching Sydney roll over for the first time on the soft white carpet in the tiny tots area of The Cottage. The other moms–my friends–cheer with me, equally as excited as if she were their own daughter. 

These past few months Sydney and I have come here every single day (except Sunday, when they’re closed). Every day it has been such a relief to leave the solitude of my house and my dark, twisty thoughts and come here, plop down on the couch, and have my mood instantly lifted. 

I’ve formed so many genuine connections with the members and staff alike. Being around them day after day, I’ve grown comfortable and never feel the need to wear a mask here. My heart feels so full knowing that I have moms who have walked this road before me, that I now get to walk alongside. 

Now that Sydney is 6 months, I officially purchased a membership. It was a no-brainer; my mental health and the friendships I’ve made here are priceless, and my husband agrees.

The Enchanted Cottage is my refuge, my safe haven, my little oasis. They were right: I did find my village, and I am right at home. 

–

Don’t spend postpartum all alone in your home–or worse, your head. Come to The Enchanted Cottage and enjoy organic coffee and tea, comfy seating, the company of other moms, and a moment of peace!

It’s true–your first four months are completely free for you and your baby. (If you have additional children, you may purchase a $20 drop in play pass.) We can’t wait to meet you, mama!