No Dogs Allowed

A few weeks ago after locking horns with us on a Saturday morning Sam vanished for a little while up to his room, then called down and asked how to spell "No Parents Allowed." I wrote it out on a sign for him, and gave him some tape and he disappeared off to his room. Susan and I were enjoying the peace and quiet and not eager to disturb a good thing, but eventually we went up to investigate. Sam had put his pillows on the floor so he could lie there and much on cereal which he had brought up to his secret lair.

At this point he was no longer feeling the need to exclude us, so he had me make up a sign that said "Parents ARE Allowed." I think Susan and I were both delighted that he'd found a way to exert his independence which didn't require much clean-up afterward.

Well, the saga continues: Two days ago a younger boy was visiting for a play date. Sam usually plays well with him, but sometimes gets a little exasperated--like the time Sam called to Susan who found Sam tugging on the younger boy to keep him away from the toilet, where Sam explained he was trying to put toys! We think this boy inspired the following exchange:

Sam: "Mommy, how do you spell No cats allowed in Sam's room?"

Susan: "Honey, cats can't read, so they'll just ignore the sign."

Sam, thinking: "Okay, then No dogs allowed.'"