The Notes

A few months ago, I was traveling for a few days while Damien and his dad took care of the kids.  One of the nights that I was away, Damien found the following note on his dresser:

(If you don’t read 6-year-old, it says “To Dad, I would like to talk to you.  Please answer.  Love, Sophia.”)

A puzzled Damien dutifully went to have the requested discussion.  It turns out that Sophie felt that her brother had been receiving more “opportunities” than she had over the past couple of days, and she wanted to express her frustration.  After Damien heard how she was feeling, he was able to address her concerns and they were both happy the next day.  When Damien reported all of this, I was extremely amused, but also amazed.  I mean, a note is a very healthy and constructive way to approach a problem...isn’t it?  


What I didn’t know is that there would be more…many more.  And they continue to evolve over time. Here is the version from two days ago:

(This one was hung on her dresser, so that he couldn't miss it when he tucked her in for bed.  Note the addition of the "Yes" or "No" checkboxes with smiley and frowny faces.)


And here is the version from yesterday:

(Translation:  “Daddy, I would like to talk to you!  Love, Sophie!  Yes = Happy/I love you!  No = Sad/I hate you.”  Also notice that the frowny face now sports angry hair.)  


(I know my mom is laughing as she reads this, and remembering the time that I expressed my anger as a child by writing a note that said “Dear Mom, I hate you.  Love, Lisa.”  “Love, Lisa” was the only way that I knew to end a letter!)


Each note has been followed by a discussion in which Sophie gives her dad her thoughts and suggestions on our family relationships.  One discussion revealed that she gets tired of us telling her what to do in the morning, and resulted in a list being posted in her room that she can follow to get herself ready for school. Another discussion involved her thoughts on how we could motivate her to get along better with her brother.  (We have yet to test those theories!)  


Interestingly, the notes are always addressed to her dad.  Perhaps because this whole thing started while I was away.  Perhaps because she has found it an effective way of communicating with him.   Or perhaps she has learned from experience that her mom is not terribly receptive to parenting suggestions at the end of a long day.  


All I know is, we haven’t seen the last of these notes.  And we are more than a little afraid…