Meanwhile, across town, four much younger fort builders are tucked in a closet. In a closet turned hideout. Their retreat is under a staircase, where the children painted a rainbow, stick figures of themselves, and a big tree with an owl and fluffy clouds. When an adult visitor is graciously allowed entry, and the door is clicked shut, the hideaway is as full as an elephant-loaded elevator. An uproar ensues.
Tiny arms stretch toward the door.
Children tumble out. The last time the kids began painting outside, mom Dena Coukoulis says, they ended up painting themselves too. A new haircut was the only antidote for George's tres chic pink tresses. It's enough to send any mother running for her own hideout. Everyone needs one.