Oakland Choice Mom

This year marks my first Thanksgiving with Baby J.  Despite some of the stresses and the negatives at the moment, my heart couldn't feel more fulfilled.  Thanksgiving is a day to simply count your blessings and focus on the really important things in life. I thank my lucky stars that I get to be Baby J's mom EVERYDAY.  FOREVER.   And I just love witnessing first hand the happiness and love that she brings to my parents, my extended family, child-hood friends, new friends, neighbors, and even strangers.  Baby J can instantly light up a room full of people. It was a wonderful first Thanksgiving weekend: 5K Piedmont Turkey Trot, Thanksgiving in Alameda, Friendsgiving(s), and a Warriors Game.  We were stuffed and happy. Warming up Before the Start of the 5K Turkey Trot Baby J (4.5 months) meets Mazi (4 weeks old) Baby J's First Warriors Game vs. Chicago Bulls

My name is Jackie and I knew I wanted to be a mother since the age of 13.  In 2015, I decided to take the plunge and move full steam ahead on my journey to single motherhood by choice. My father had just turned 80 years old and his health had been declining rapidly.  At best, he may have a few more years on earth and I was determined to make sure he experience his first granddaughter before his final days with us. I was born and raised in Orange County and now live in Oakland, California.  A CPA by trade, I have spent my professional career in the asset management space.   Most importantly, I am a "Choice Mom" to Baby J, my beautiful daughter.  She is my absolute biggest dream come true. I am on this amazing journey with our "Choice Family".  Baby J was born into an amazing village of multiple grandmas, grandpas, and countless uncles and aunties.  She is already dearly loved. We share our story here in hopes to inspire others.  My number one goal is to provide