Accessing apple notes from time machine

Recently scanned some greeting cards I wanted to keep using Apple Notes and did a back up on Time Machine on Mac as I want an extra back up to ensure I never lose them. When I entered the Time Machine I couldn't find how to access notes. It shows up under applications if I go in as at today's date but when I click on it, nothing happens. If I go in at yesterday's date (when I backed up) it doesn't show under applications at all. Know I'm not tech savvy but am I wrong in thinking my notes should have backed up and be on the disk and if so, how do I access them? Would be so grateful for some answers and easy to follow advice!