life imitates art

A few months ago, Ella read a chapter book featuring a small, furry and fictional pet that, when distressed, makes the sound, "Meep!" Lo and behold, now when I catch Ella making a mess, deliberately disobeying, or distracted from something she should be doing, she emits a quiet, "Meep." It seems to be such a reflex, it is hilarious. But you won't see me smiling! At least, not when she can see me.