One of the cherished memories from my children’s younger years was the discovery of notes tucked beneath our bedroom door. These little treasures were typically folded neatly and sealed with tape, addressed specifically to either Mom or Dad, often containing grievances about the other parent. With a warm cup of coffee in hand, I would settle in to read the latest updates from my kids.
A memorable note from my daughter demanded that I think for myself and stop siding with Dad. She was frustrated about being sent to her room for jokingly calling him a “dickweed.” She concluded her message with a stern request: “DO NOT show this to Dad.”
During our trips away, sweet notes would often emerge. “I’ll miss you a lot, but please enjoy your time. Don’t forget about me!” accompanied by a drawing for each of us, brightened my day.
Another note, marked “Dad Only,” proposed a clever plan regarding allowance: “Mom wants us to do chores, but you just hand out cash. Let’s get our allowance from you instead, and Mom can handle the chores. This will be our little secret. DO NOT show this to Mom.”
As my children aged, the notes continued to flow, often containing heartfelt apologies. “Mom, I’m really sorry I was rude, but you ask too many questions. I’m old enough to stay out until midnight, and I shouldn’t have to call you. Am I still grounded? I said I was sorry.”
“Dad is so unreasonable. Everyone skips school; it’s part of growing up! I shouldn’t miss the dance this weekend because of that. I love you, Mom. Please convince Dad to let me go. DO NOT show this note to Dad.”
“Dad, I didn’t mean to sneak out last night to see Joey. Before I knew it, I was locked outside. He just came to help me get back in. We only needed to warm up on the sofa! Mom thought we were making out and sent him home. So unfair! Please tell her I would never do that while you were sleeping. DO NOT show this note to Mom.”
“Mom, there’s a boy named Matt sleeping on the sofa. He had a fight with his mom and needed a place to stay. He’s really nice, so don’t wake him. He had a tough night. Let Dad know too.”
“Dad, I’m sorry I called you a butt wad. You’re a great dad, you just act like one sometimes. I won’t say that again next time we argue. DO NOT tell Mom about this.”
“It’s hard living here. Between homework, sports, and chores, I can be grumpy. If you’re wondering why, it’s because life feels overwhelming. Please write a note saying I have measles so I can stay home from school for a week. Tell them it’s really bad. Ask Dad to sign it, too. Love you.”
“I wish you hadn’t married Dad. Why didn’t you choose someone fun? I’m tired of cleaning my room to his standards. I shouldn’t have to live by Army rules. It’s my room, and I should be allowed to keep it messy. Oh, and P.S. I think I might have a mouse in my room. Can you ask Dad to catch it?”
Now that my children are grown, I find myself missing those whimsical notes, though I’m uncertain if I should ever tell them that.
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In summary, the whimsical notes from my children provided insight into their thoughts and feelings, often full of humor, complaints, and clever proposals. As they grew older, these notes became cherished reminders of their childhood, highlighting both the challenges and joys of parenting.
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