Brianna. 

Yep, my 8 year old now has her own e-mail account.  That computer is so chock full of parental controls, but still — I’m nervous about her foray into the online world.  The first message I received from her – since I’m the only person to whom she knows how to send an e-mail message.

Message #1:

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2007 5:55 PM
To: smacdona@earthlink.net
Subject: dounut time!

dear mom your a dounut head becasue you smel like one. bye![p.s]’your a french fri to!"
Love, Brianna

P.S. I don’t let her eat all of that stuff either – this is her way of letting me know that she doesn’t approve…hmmm?  I can see some major rants coming via e-mail in the teen years.  Probably in all caps and bright red.

Message #2:

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2007 5:58 PM
To: smacdona@earthlink.net
Subject: hi!

dear mom,can I have a dounut?please!and french fries?bye!

It’s time for a reply…and to turn on spell check for her.  And to show her how color and CAPS can convey meaning.

NO.

Love, Momma.

Next lesson?  Acronyms.