So my last entry about Olivia wasn’t the most optimistic, but it had been a long few months. I am happy to report that Olivia is making a great comeback. We only had to spend one day of calmly taking her to “Uh-Oh” time and explaining that it is inappropriate to scream for things. While going through this she would scream and then get in control and almost in a whisper explain in her words what she needed. This pattern only had to happen about five times before she realized it was much easier to use words to get what she needs. She has been waking up with a smile and is eager to help. She even asked Mason if she could help him unload the dishwasher, Mason thought he had struck gold!
We have had a few set backs but the future looks promising!
Last night Olivia tried to feed the turtle (who was just released back into the wild today) a little too much food by dumping half of the package in the water. Everyone had gone on a bike ride and I was really worried about the little fella. You know me, scared of any moving creature. I started explaining to Olivia that she would have to get the turtle out so he wouldn’t get sick. She tried to get him out, but was too short to bend down into the container. I was trying to visualize myself picking the turtle up and muster up the courage, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I looked around and found something I could use to get prop him on…I put it in the water and was successful in getting him out. Olivia’s job was to watch the turtle, Fred, so he wouldn’t get away while I dumped out the water. Without explaining further, it was quite a production.
I am grateful for Olivia and that she is brave around animals. She rescued me from having to touch a cat last year too! Phew!!!! One of these days I will overcome my phobia! Until then, I’m staying close to Livvy.
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Comments:
Stacie said…
Do they get any cuter? I love the turtle story! I am glad to hear it is back in the pond. Way to go Liv!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008 10:47:09 PM
Grandma and Grandpa Parker said…
“How will they know unless we tell them?” Nobody can really teach like Mom and dad. Olivia looks cute as button.
Thursday, June 26, 2008 1:11:45 AM
Anne said…
She is so much fun! If we only have fun all the time we wouldn’t enjoy it as much, so I guess some of the really fun ones are really hard to, right!?! The turtle story is great!
Friday, June 27, 2008 6:24:41 AM
Amy Baldwin said…
Okay, the small animal phobia cracks me up. I never knew that! Have you ever touched Mia, or does she send you running and screaming?
Saturday, June 28, 2008 9:24:15 PM