Thanks Arty. If and when I can break her from biting on stepup from the cage, I'm done! Well, as far as mandatory things. I will still work with her on play and parlor tricks. She likes those and I enjoy the training part.
Our relationship has grown. Last nite, I took her into a room to wrap some presents. I sat her on a chair back next to the bed and she wanted ON the bed, so I obliged. She stepped up beautifully and played with some wrapping paper.Then, I had to cut some paper and the ZIIIP noise the scissors make scared the feathers off her and she flew straight to my arm (only bout 3 feet). But that was nice. She flew to me for protection from the evil scissors. haha.
It get's very very frustrating. It is a beneavolent thing to take in an abused/rehomed bird. I enjoy working and training her. But, I admit I would like a bird that could hang out easier IN ADDITION to her. A bird that's not so tense and guarded. I"m sure she'll relax more, she already is. She can be a nervous wreck, but she has been thru a lot.
My mind keeps going back to this white bellied Caique I met in a petstore.
He was fun, big fun. Didn't scream, looked like he'd just love to hang out and watch a movie and play. Get some scratching. But,. I can't afford an $1,100.00 Caique right now.
Wandering minds.....

I hear your words, I feel your honor Mark, where would Cleo be if not for you opening your heart.
I wondered the same things when we first began rescue, my fingers and hands are scared from all the bites, some of our birds would not only bite badly, but would twist there heads back and forth when biting as if they were trying to take a piece of flesh right off the finger.
I thrive on helping birds and I sense this is within you, most would simply keep on walking away Mark, you are special...please know this...
I also dream of being able to care for a baby Majestic Blue, the great HY, but the 15,000 price tag kinda keeps me in a class I am used to (poor)...
But I am greatful for all the "little ones" that have found there way to me and my lovely wife, I stand with much pride for what I do...and Mark...so should you, you are changing the life of a little bird that so desperately needs it and deserves such changes, all little birds want to be friendly, they wish not to bite, but there past has taught them to defend themselfs.
Oneday you will be able to hold and care for the bird of your dreams, for right now Cleo is in need of your caring ways...
I hope to hear more great things about you 2 in the future, things can only become better under your care.
Peace my friend, to you and your family.
Arty