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It doesn’t look like much, and parts of it are even taped together, but make no mistake, this little cardboard mailbox is a cherished item. It doesn’t go with the interior design of our living room in the least; however, it sits prominently on a table outside my daughter’s bedroom.
Originally intended for Valentine’s Day cards, or perhaps stuffed as a gift box, I found this treasure some years ago and had an entirely different plan for its use. I set it outside of Olivia’s door and explained to her that it was her personal mailbox and that whenever she saw the flag sticking up, it meant she had mail. Then, every so often I would put notes, little treats, or small surprises in the mailbox (making sure to raise the flag) for her to discover later. It was a hit!!!
I wasn’t terribly surprised with her excitement. I mean, who doesn’t love treats and prizes? Though I was a bit shocked that she, in turn, gleefully started putting little drawings, rocks, and random items in there for me as well. Apparently, my sweet daughter likes to give just as much as she likes to receive.
It’s been a wonderful experience. Even after years of use, we still enjoy surprising each other, and I can’t help but smile every time I see the little flag sticking up, bent and taped as it is. Given our love of this tradition (of sorts) I thought I’d share in case you might like to get your own mailbox. It’s definitely kid approved, but I can also imagine that older children, and maybe, just maybe, even teens might enjoy it. It’s certainly a unique and fun form of communication.
If this sounds like something you might like to try, some popular mailbox treats in our house are: notes, stickers, candy, small toys, games, little postcards, etc. Or, if the recipient is older, you could stash it with letters, the occasional gift card, and other age-appropriate items. Just have fun with it and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box (ha!).
PS: If you like the cute notes and postcards in the featured image above, you can find them on my Etsy shop. (I must say, Olivia particularly adores the little postcards with the stamps.) They are super simple; just download and print. The two different designs can also be used as lunchbox notes. 😉
PPS: If you would like some happy mail for your own grown-self, sign up here to receive a Happy Gram. I’d love to send a smile to your real mailbox. 🙂
