This week, I hoped that Heather would be interested in decorating the birds she painted orange last week. When I arrived, I could tell she was in good spirits as she greeted me with a big smile—a good sign.
After lunch, we moved to the back deck, our usual spot for art projects. I laid out the orange birds along with a few markers. Heather immediately understood that the markers were for adding details to the birds and got to work. She decorated all eight birds, looking at them with satisfaction.
Since I always bring a variety of art supplies when I visit, I set out some paint colors in small saucers. Without any prompting, Heather began applying paint to the birds. It was a relaxing time for both of us, partly because Heather was more settled than usual, and the project was all about the process, not the end result.
When it became evident that the bird project was complete, Heather did not get up and leave as she often does. Taking advantage of her sustained interest, I laid out a piece of cardstock and a few different paint colors and gave her a fresh paintbrush. After Heather finished the green and purple piece, I handed her a piece of watercolor paper, which I sprayed with water. Setting out blue and yellow watercolour paint, she knew exactly what to do!
These afternoons are precious and I cherish every moment we have together.
