When I was five-years-old, I told my Mother that I was running away from home

[Roon]

My Mother said, "Ok, well, let me pack a couple of sandwhiches to take with you." I was so shocked I gave up on the running away idea pretty quick...I remember it like it was yesterday..LOL

[many a good man]

1. Did she tie it up in a bandana on a big stick?

Just like in the movies? Lucky you didn't become a hobo.

[mcctatas]

2. I ran away from home when I was about 5....

(because my mom wouldn't let me wear a long dress to the park). Only problem was, I was not allowed to cross the street so my mom just watched me sitting on the corner for about an hour until I was bored....

[mitchum]

3. I ran away from home during JFK's funeral...

I was three, my mother was occupied with my one month old little sister, and there was "nothing" on TV due to the assassination and funeral coverage.I made it to three houses away before some workmen brought me back home.

I had a friend whose mother used your mother's "let me pack..." technique on him when he was 5 or 6. Just as in your case, it worked like a charm :)