Because I said so

Me: Blaine, you need to go put your shirt and shorts on
Blaine: WHY?
Me: Because you need to wear clothes at the store
Blaine: WHY?
Me: Because you can't walk around Whole Foods in Spiderman underwear
Blaine: WHY?
Me: Because Mommy will get in trouble
Blaine: WHY?
Me: Because that's the rules
Blaine: WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY? WHY?

I max out at about 5 whys. I've definitely been guilty of a few typical mother responses.  I've been guilty of the "because I said so!" on several occasions and the southern mom in me has yelled "no talking back!" too. I know sometimes the kids really are inquisitive, but sometimes I think they know they are driving me crazy and think that is hysterical. I don't blame them. I know I annoy them sometimes just to get a good laugh. But, sometimes in my head its like they're the seagulls from Finding Nemo saying "Mine! Mine! Mine!" all. day. long.

I'm trying to change my ways and have started answering the dreaded question with a question.... "Why do you think?"  So far, it is a fun experience and has lightened the mood of daily activities.  Sometimes when I ask, Blaine answers, "Because you said so?" and we both get a good laugh.

How many why's and follow-up why's do you willingly answer before screaming "BECAUSE I SAID SO" and envision beating your own head against a wall? (Other moms do that, right?) Do you have any tips for severe cases of the "WHYs"?