It sounds as though that Child is growing up without discipline as most children are taught what is proper behavior.
I was talking to my friend who works at Wal Mart and she has horror stories about ill mannered brtas who get into snacks and then lie to their faces, even when theirs are covered in crumbs!!!
I am glad that Samanthas forgotten her past, and I know how you feel.
When I see my Ex Porch Cats Tubster Panther and Scrappy Two, I have that good feeling too.