Your post reminded me of the show The Dog Wisperer. The guy on there said that when a dog does that kind of wimper thing, it is actually an objection.
That totally makes sense. This is such a great example of what he was talking about! She was objecting to the fact that you weren't giving her attention. You figured it out exactly! These dogs are way too smart.
In response to the post about her thinking it is ok to be up on the furniture: maybe it would be a good idea to continue what you are doing by ignoring her and only when she gets off and plays by herself will you give her attention. My mom did that with her Carin Terrior and now he will bring her a toy and be so excited because he knows she will stop what she is doing and play with him.