When my mother-in-law, Linda, moved in “just for a few weeks” during her kitchen renovation, I didn’t expect my home to turn into a sticky note battleground. I welcomed her because I believe family helps each other. But from the moment she arrived, it felt like I was hosting royalty, not a guest.

She didn’t clean up, offered no help, and instead began leaving passive-aggressive sticky notes everywhere. From mocking my housekeeping to shaming my wife duties, each note was more demeaning than the last. The worst came when I was sick—she left a note on my pillow that read: “Rest is earned, not given. A wife doesn’t get days off!”

I showed the note to my husband, Jason, and for the first time, he didn’t make excuses. The next morning, I discovered sticky notes covering everything—but this time, they were from Jason. “Mom, try using the mop you complain about,” and “She brewed your coffee. Maybe say thank you,” were just a few gems.

Even her suitcase had one: “Time to move back home. Our passive-aggressive starter pack is now complete!” When Linda saw it all, she was furious. But Jason stood firm, telling her, “If you can’t respect my wife, you can’t stay.”

She packed her bags and left without a goodbye. Jason turned to me and said, “I’m sorry it took me so long.” I forgave him immediately. Our home was peaceful again.

Now, the only sticky notes I see are ones that say, “I love you.”