Updated: Aug. 19, 2015
Originally Published: Oct. 20, 2012
One of my fondest memories from when my children were little was discovering notes tucked under our bedroom door. They were typically folded and sealed with tape, addressed specifically to either Dad or Mom, and intended for the eyes of only that parent—often filled with grievances about the other. Armed with my morning coffee, I would settle in to read the latest updates from my kids.
A memorable note from my daughter once declared that I needed to think for myself and stop siding with Dad. She was upset because he had sent her to her room for calling him a “knucklehead.” She insisted it was meant as a joke and concluded with a stern “DO NOT show this to Dad.”
Whenever we traveled, sweet little messages would appear. “I’ll miss you lots, but have fun! Don’t forget about me.” Each note came with a drawing for both of us.
Another note, marked “Dad Only,” requested he manage the allowance: “Mom wants us to do chores, while you just hand out money. Let’s make it your thing! Mom can handle the chores. It’ll be our little secret. DO NOT tell Mom.”
As the kids grew older, the notes kept coming, often filled with apologies:
- “Mom, I’m sorry for being rude. You ask too many questions. I’m old enough to stay out until midnight! Am I still grounded? I said I was sorry.”
- “Dad is so unfair. Everyone skips school! I shouldn’t miss the dance this weekend for that. I love you so much, Mom. Talk some sense into Dad. DO NOT let him see this.”
- “Dad, I didn’t mean to sneak out to meet Joey! I just got locked outside, and he helped me back in. We were just warming up on the sofa when Mom thought we were making out and sent him home. So not fair! Tell her I would never do that while you guys are sleeping. DO NOT show this to Mom.”
- “Mom, there’s a boy named Jake sleeping on our couch. He had a fight with his mom and needed a place to crash. He’s really nice! Don’t wake him up.”
- “Dad, I apologize for calling you a jerk. You’re a great dad, but sometimes you act like one. Next time we fight, I’ll remember that. DO NOT mention this to Mom.”
- “It’s tough living here! Between homework, sports, and chores, I’m overwhelmed. If you wonder why I’m grumpy, this is it. Please write a note saying I have the measles. Then I can skip school for a week! Ask DAD to sign it too. Love you!”
- “I wish you had never married Dad. Why couldn’t you have picked a fun husband? I’m tired of cleaning my room to his standards. I’m not in the Army! Tell him to chill! It’s my life, and I can keep my room however I want.”
- “P.S. I think there’s a mouse in my room. Can you ask Dad to catch it?”
Now that they are all grown, I genuinely miss those little notes. Should I ever tell them?
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In summary, the innocent notes exchanged in my home captured the whimsical and often chaotic life of parenting. Each note was a snapshot of childhood emotions, forging a unique bond between us that I cherish dearly.
Keyphrase: Notes from Kids
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