os x high sierra
illustrator 2017-2019

when entering a note in the attribute panel, the window loses focus and instead of typing the note illustrator execute keyboard commands.

example:
I select an object.
Type in a note in the note window
it works

select a different object.
place cursor in the note window. the cursor blinks as it's ready for typing
start typing but nothing happens in the window, instead keyboard presses execute whatever shortcuts are pressed

workaround.
select object
hide attribute tab
reopen attribute tab
notes work again.

but then select a new object and notes stops working.