"it goes without saying" doesn't work in our house

what is obvious to an adult is not always obvious to children, as illustrated by the following three statements yours truly has had to utter.

"we do not lick public bathroom walls!"
said to: sophie
where: navy pier restroom, chicago, il
when: september 2003

"we do not put fingers in that part of the cat!"
said to: harry
where: brooklyn, ny
when: august 2006

and this beaut:

"who peed in the bathroom wastepaper basket?"
said to: everyone i live with
where: brooklyn, ny
when: january 21, 2007

so, are there any things you've said to your kids that have surprised you? tell me what it is...click the comment line below...