Do you have any weird but sweet games you play with your family members? I think most people do. Actor and writer Bridie Connell has one she plays with her dad.
It’s called “pinch and a punch, first day of the month” and they’ve been at it for 15 years now.
Neither one of them can say how it started, but it sure is adorable.
The First rule of “pinch and a punch, first day of the month is… there are no rules!
It’s like Fight Club, only much more passive aggressive.
Each month, we each try to be the first to say “pinch and a punch, first day of the month, no returns.” You can do this however you like: in person, in a letter, in a song.
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
I wonder how something like this even gets started?
Well, her school didn’t seem to enjoy the game very much.
(My principal was very confused; apparently dad had set up the appointment to talk about my grades).
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
It sounds like a rather intense game.
Like something her father probably shouldn’t be telling people they play?
I’m mean… “punch” his daughter? Every month
Dad and I think it’s funny. My mum and brother think it’s “immature”, “not even a real game” and that it “keeps ruining family holidays.”
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
Clearly, it’s an international game.
Because she’s coming home from New Zealand, when all of a sudden…
Today is the 1st of May. First of the month!I’m flying home to NZ for my cousin’s birthday. It was an early flight – too early to call dad before I took off. “It’ll have to wait,” I thought as I settled into my seat.
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
We know where this is headed…
Do you?
And then a staff member comes over to my seat.
“Are you Bridie?”
“Yes…”
“I’m Beau. Nice to meet you.”
Omg it’s finally happening, the moment I have been dreaming of for years. I’m going to be UPGRADED, baby!!
“I have a special delivery for you, Bridie.”— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
This is NO upgrade!
How did her dad do it?!
Beau hands me a letter. I open it.
I silently scream. It’s not an upgrade. Beau grins and shakes my hand. Hands me his card.
“And just remember you can’t call your dad, phones have to be in flight mode from … now.”— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
We’re annoyed and impressed by him.
But will she have the last laugh?
I’ve just spent three hours on a flight plotting my revenge (on dad and Beau). Submissions welcome.
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
So something good DID come from this prank!
The upgrade was free!
UPDATE: turns out the upgrade to premium economy was from @FlyAirNZ who felt ever so slightly guilty for helping papa prank me 🙏 I’m blessed
— Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019
Bridie and her dad are truly committed to their game, driving other family members nuts and employing the airlines.
Having a special game with a parent or sibling is some of the best, most infuriating fun you can have. Have a wholesome game with family or a friend in play for years?
Tell us about it in the comments.
