Bailey 'Bedelia'

These days, Miss Bailey has scads of words at her disposal along with a plethora of worldly notions to share with all in earshot. However, at the tender age of 2 1/2, she remains rather literal when it comes to chit-chat which leads to some amusing dialogue with our pint-sized princess.

It often reminds me of Amelia Bedelia, a book character who I loved as a child. Amelia was constantly getting into scrapes due to her literal interpretation of the world around her. One of my favorites was when she spread dust all over her employers house when "Dust the House" was on her to-do list. In that same story she accessorized a turkey when the list said to "Dress the Turkey."

Here a recent sample of chit-chat with Miss Bailey Bedelia:

Imagine the little one wrapped up with Mama getting a good snuggle. Caught up in the loveliness, I say, "Oh Bailey, you are just precious!"

Up sits Miss B, looking rather indignant if I do say so. "I NOT PESHUSH! I just Bayee."

I smile and reply, "Oh I see but you are my special Bailey."

A quick retort from the wee one, "I NOT SPESHUL!! I BAYEE!"

In a fruitless attempt to smooth things over from my recklessly shared sentiments I respond diplomatically, "Yes, you are my Bailey, and you are dear to me."

With a resolute face she firmly said, "No Mommy. I am Bayee. Bambi is a dear."

Wisely, I chose to wrap up this conversation with a big hug and we moved on with our day.