Amharic Mixup

Most people have a funny story or two about trying to learn a new
language. There are over 70 different languages spoken in Ethiopia,
but the most common language is Amharic. Right now I know and use
about 60 words.
Our housekeeper, Selam, is a really great cook. Anything she makes
for breakfast is amazing, but my favorite is her french toast. Selam
does not have an extensive English vocabulary, so each time she makes
french toast, I say "Gobez!" (excellent) or have her read, "Hats off
to the chef!" in my Amharic phrase book. I do this as a gentle way of
encouraging her to make it as often as possible. She often hugs me
and repeatedly says, "awadeshalo". I thought she was teaching me to
say "I love it."
Awadeshalo has been a word that I often use to describe various
things. The male social worker at Ahope often asks me if I like
Ethiopia or the food. I always reply, "Ow. Gobez. Awadeshalo" (Yes.
Excellent. I love it). He often looks at me funny, but I just ignore
that.
This past week I was talking with another volunteer when the subject
of amharic words entered the conversation. She has volunteered before
and knows a lot more Amharic than I do. She told me that Awadeshalo
means I love you when speaking to a female. So basically I have been
telling the male social worker, "I love you, girl".
Oops. I will be apologizing to him this week.