Happy? 4th of July

My July 4th week started out fantastically, with my mom and step-dad helping N and I see a DOUBLE FEATURE (that's right TWO non-kid movies), and then helping me put on a little day camp for B and his other 2-3 yr old friends. For me, having an event like that is what life is all about. It cost me a bit to put on (less than $100 though), but it was one of those rare times when I got to do something specifically for one of my two kids and his friends. I also got to share the experience with my own mom, wonderful step-dad, and sister-in-law and niece. It was probably the best thing I've done all year.

Just after the camp, B, W and I took off for another overnight quickie at Stinson. This time the weather was absolutely phenomenal and the four kids played naked golf (and delighted in "marking their territory" on the driftwood bench just below the house) on the beach until 6PM. I am still on the verge of tears over having not brought my camera. Seriously, the normally gray Pacific ocean was nearly azure in the setting sun and my boys'creamy white butts were pressed into the tan sand nearby. Not having the camera was disturbing, but also a nice respite: I actually got to look at what was around me first hand without relying on the lens to see it for me.

July 4th itself? Well, let's just say that having a conversation with my husband about how I have failed to prevent over drafting my meager checking account again this month is not really the way I planned to begin Independence Day. My bad, of course. But, "Why Daddy mad at Mommy?" is not a pleasant question to hear from your three-year-old, especially when you don't know how to answer the question. "Because Mommy didn't track her spending accurately?" "Because Daddy is frustrated?" "Because you and your brother are too expensive to keep any longer and will have to be returned?" The possibilities are endless. The truth is that living life with two young kids costs a lot wherever you are, and it costs even more here in Silicon Valley. When both parents are running start-ups (and one of those two sucks ass at balancing her checkbook), well, you're just screwed. We'll make it through, of course. But if worst comes to worst I can always open up my own day camp, right?