From Kittens To Kids

  Today's guest post is by Kadie Kelly, an  Oakland mom with a personal mission to build a network of single parents in her community.  Good luck, Kadie!


  

 Single Parents Unite
I am a proud single mom, but hey, let's not kid ourselves.  It's tough.

It's tough when you're not a divorcee who's still friends with your ex, who chips in with family to step in and pick up the slack.  Not many of us really are.  We might pretend we are.  We sure wish we were *at times*.  But let's face it, when I say there's a void in my life – all you single moms know what I mean.

That's why I started the Oakland Single Parents' Network.  If you're in the Bay Area, think about joining us – you'll become part of a family who coordinates events, finds information, and belly laughs with you, who all know what it is like to face child rearing solo or part time.  Benefits include a single parent discount card honored by top quality family law practitioners, therapists, life coaches, and classes such as "Coping with the Courts" and "The Self Employment Option for Single Parents." 

In short, this community will welcome you with open arms and support you in ways that are relevant to your distinct needs. 

After all, You are not alone.  Why should you live like you are?

It's Valentine's Day AND Chinese New Year today!  Two in one – how lovely.

No flowers from my prosaic husband, which is OK because we both hate scripted romance, but we'll be feasting with friends later tonight in an Asian take on Thanksgiving. 

I've even prepared "hong paos" (literally translated, "red packets") of cash as the traditional gifts for my friends' kids. 

That was a big deal back when I was a kid.  We had a large extended family, so I would collect a little ransom in kiddie allowance for the year. 

HiveMoms and I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year.



 

For HiveMoms in the Bay Area, here's a chance to be part of the rescue efforts in Haiti, and get a little treat in return! 

The Parents Club of Palo Alto Menlo Park (PAMP) and Silicon Valley Moms Blog are holding a Bake Sale in the parking lot of Draeger's supermarket in Menlo Park TOMORROW!  8am-3pm. 

100% of raised funds will go directly to support the earthquake victims.  You can also drop in with your own baked goods and they'll place it on sale too.

Dr. Enoch Choi, a PAMP father and doctor, will be going to Haiti in February to serve outpatient needs.  He has previously served those in need in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and will do the same in Haiti.  The plan is to provide these outpatient services from a 20 ft medically-equipped container.  Pics of the container can be seen at Enoch's Facebook page.

So, let's all drop in at Draeger's tomorrow and help this great cause!  The HiveMama will be there for sure. 
 
And, oh, if you have a plane, or know someone who can get a plane, these guys could sure use your help.  Just drop a message on Enoch's Facebook Wall! 

Or, contact the PAMP club at:
Palo Alto Menlo Park Parents Club
Alpa Shah
650-766-5730
ashahpamp_at_gmail_dot com
www.pampclub.org