oofda

In case you haven't heard of the word "Oofda" before it is an extremely handy phrase for sticky situations. Like trying to shove chubby baby hands through shirt sleeves, or putting on the toddler's shoes, or lifting heavy objects. I'm not sure where I picked up this charming piece of vocab but I wasn't even aware that I used it until I noticed my kids putting it to use. Kids and birds have an inept ability in repeating the perfect things. Now I get to hear it several hundred times a day (slight exaggeration). Even William has his own endearing version of it as he grunts "Ooo - ah" in serious concentration.

* Edit: check out this article about the word "oofda" (or uffda). I didn't know it was so legitimate! Or that I was harking back to my norwegian roots.... It's on wikipedia, which is the best thing ever. Anyone in the world can write anything they want about any subject. So you know you are getting the best possible information. Just ask Michael Scott. *

William has also taken to greeting Amelia by calling out "Hiiii cookie!" in a cheerfully falsetto voice. I'm not sure what word "cookie" is supposed to be but it's become a cute new nickname.


And while we're on the general theme of things that can be a bit embarrassing for me... When we were at the zoo a few days ago we walked by this lovely parrot display and were greeted by an appreciative whistle. As another family walked by us Margaret loudly noted "That parrot whistled like Daddy whistles at you when you be beautiful!". The other zoo goers joined me in embarrassed chuckling. Um, thanks there, Margaret.