One of my favorite memories from my children’s younger years was discovering little notes tucked under our bedroom door. These notes were often neatly folded and sealed with tape, directed to either Mom or Dad, and typically contained grievances about the other parent. With a steaming cup of coffee in hand, I would settle in to read the latest updates from my kids.
One memorable note from my son declared that I needed to think for myself rather than just siding with Dad. He felt it was unjust that he was sent to his room for calling his father a “goofball” — a joke that clearly went over Dad’s head. The note concluded with a strict request: “Please don’t show this to Dad.”
When we would head out of town, sweet little messages often surfaced. “I will miss you so much, but I hope you have a blast. Don’t forget about me!” Each note was accompanied by a drawing meant just for us.
Another letter, marked “Dad Only,” suggested that he should take control of their allowance: “Mom wants us to do chores, but you just give us money. Let’s just get our allowance from you. Mom can handle the chores. This can be our little secret. DO NOT show this to Mom!”
As the years went by, the notes kept coming, often filled with apologies:
- “Mom, I’m really sorry for being snappy, but you ask too many questions. I’m old enough to stay out late with my friends. I shouldn’t have to check in. Am I still grounded? I said I was sorry.”
- “Dad is so unfair! Everyone skips school sometimes. I shouldn’t miss the dance just because of that. I love you so much, Mom. Please reason with Dad. DO NOT show this note to Dad.”
- “Dad, I didn’t mean to sneak out last night to see Jamie. I got locked out when I was trying to come back in. He just helped me out. We were lying on the couch to keep warm when you thought we were up to no good and sent him home. So unfair! Please tell her I would never do that while you guys were asleep. DO NOT show this note to Mom.”
- “Mom, there’s a boy named Alex sleeping on the couch. He had a fight with his mom and needed a place to crash. He’s really nice, and it’s freezing outside. Don’t wake him up. He had a rough night. Tell Dad, too.”
- “Dad, I’m really sorry I called you a silly goose. You’re an awesome dad, but sometimes you act like one. I shouldn’t have said that you were being grumpy. I’ll remember that next time we disagree. DO NOT tell Mom about this.”
- “Living here can be tough. I have homework, sports, and chores. If I seem grumpy, it’s because life is overwhelming. Can you write a note for me saying I have the flu? Then I can take a week off school. Tell Dad to sign it, too! Love you.”
- “I wish you hadn’t married Dad. Why couldn’t you choose a more fun husband? I’m so tired of cleaning my room to his standards. I’m not in the Army; he’s not in the Army. It’s my life, and I should be able to have a messy room if I want to.”
- “P.S. I think there’s a mouse in my room. Can you ask Dad to catch it?”
Now that my kids are grown, I find myself missing those charming little notes. I’m not sure if I should let them know!
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In summary, the notes I received from my children were a delightful part of our family life, filled with humor, creativity, and a few heartfelt apologies. They brought a unique perspective on growing up and navigating family dynamics, which I cherish to this day.