I had a busy day at work and came home to work on our Indian food leftovers with Jen, Chris, and their kids. We enjoy spending time with them so much, and Lily and I really enjoyed chatting with them. The kids had a great time together, as always, too. After they left, I worked on training Basil to come. He has already learned the command a while ago, but he has significantly regressed. About a week ago, he ran out the garage door, and walked around people’s yards barking for 3-5 minutes, and he would not come no matter how many times I called. I walked after him asking him to come and he just walked away from me obstinate until I finally closed in on him and grabbed him. I swatted his back side, told him “no” sternly, and then put him in his crate with three more “no!”s. I was very direct to Basil about the unacceptable behavior and I realized it would not be super helpful without also reinforcing the behavior I do want him to do. I promptly order treats on Amazon. And today I practiced the “come” command. We definitely made some progress. Here is a video:
Also, before our guests came over, Lily had a really rough time with Lydia and Mary’s music practice. I came home and found everyone to be emotionally soar from it. There is no way around the fact that it difficult instruments, and I think they are all doing way better than they realize soldiering through it. Lily was pretty discouraged, but this email from Lydia really helped her feel better:
I know I don’t act like it sometimes, but I am glad that you taught me to play the harp. It can be hard but it is so worth it. Today I was playing Allegro and Kailens family all came into the music room to listen. Kailen said I was really good. This is what makes learning to play the harp worth it. I hope I can continue playing the harp, but if I can’t I want to say thank you for teaching me what I know on the harp