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The Most Outrageous Care Instructions Ever Written by Jenna Thompson
Updated: March 29, 2023
Originally Published: Jan. 17, 2023
While flipping through some old albums today, I stumbled upon a crumpled note that made me chuckle. It contained a 6-page list of “guidelines and insights” (my own over-the-top phrasing) that I had crafted for my in-laws when they graciously offered to care for our daughter while I embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime 10-day trip to Italy with my mom.
This adventure took place eight years ago. At the time, my daughter had just celebrated her first birthday, and we had just moved into a new home the week before. Our place was a maze of boxes, and the usual chaos of raising a toddler was in full swing. Despite this, my in-laws flew in from Arizona to watch our little one, allowing my mom and me to indulge in a culinary journey through Italy. I remain incredibly thankful for their kindness, and even more so now that I realize how absurd my detailed instruction sheet must have seemed to two capable, loving grandparents who had already raised their own kids.
To “assist” them, I compiled what I believed to be an essential, information-rich set of notes detailing everything they needed to know about caring for my daughter over the next ten days. Looking back now, after having a second child, I can only imagine what thoughts crossed their minds as they read through my meticulous instructions.
I share this story with all the moms out there, especially those preparing to write their own versions of “guidelines” for a first-time separation from their baby. And for those like me, with older children, who can still vividly recall the anxiety of letting go during that first big departure. Cherish those notes; they’ll remind you of how far you’ve come—and perhaps inspire you to step up your game for your in-laws’ gift this Christmas.
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Summary
This article reflects on a humorous set of care instructions written by a mother for her in-laws while she took a trip to Italy. It highlights the joys and challenges of parenting, and encourages other moms to save their notes for nostalgia and growth.