Territories

ter⋅ri⋅to⋅ry/ˈtɛrɪˌtɔri, -ˌtoʊri/ Show Spelled Pronunci [ter-i-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee] - noun:

1. domain or province of something.
2. the area that an animal defends against intruders.

So....with summer break in full swing, there has been some territory marking at our house. Keep in mind that I have a 9 year old boy, 7 year old girl, and 3 year old boy. My 9 year old, Connor, thinks he rules the roost. Naturally, being the oldest, he should be in total control, right? My Lauren is the only girl. She is sandwiched between the boys. If one brother isn't bothering her, the other is. And Cody, being 3, also thinks he rules the roost, and is 3 years old. This mix of everyone home together 24/7 for the summer has created some territory disputes. Most are minor and easily taken care of. These are the usual complaints I hear.....

"She made that mess in my room."
"Why do I have to pick up his stuff?"
"Stay OUT of my room."
"Don't touch my stuff."
"Can't you keep him out of my things?"

Now.....in self defense of one's territory, my children like to post on the door to their rooms some 'territory markings', if you will. They get quite creative in their tactics. After one particular dispute, I happened to get pictures of their best attempts to defend their area against any intruders.

Lauren's signs usually have the words 'no' and 'boys' in them.
(I liked the addendum of 'only dad' in this one)

Connor's signs are usually full of drawings with very specific terms and conditions.
This sign says:
KEEP OUT
Mom and Dad accepted
Lauren and Cody not accepted
Friends accepted
OR
Death!
(notice all the ways of death that are portrayed)

I especially liked Lauren's grave on this one :)

I actually find all this territory stuff quite humerous. And yes, I do remember growing up how important it was to stake your own claim. I guess I should feel blessed that my children make signs instead of urinating like most animals (don't give Cody any ideas!).