chezron

Greetings, I am new to African Greys and to this forum. My love, my quaker, died after 18 years a few months ago. She was the sweetest most loving bird, and I feel it will be difficult to have another relationship with a bird that will be as fulfilling. She, my quaker, picked me and I felt loved and trusted from the moment I met her. I do not have the same experience with the bird I may well be spending the rest of my life with. I have, however, put a down payment on a young african grey. She seems to be sweeter and quieter than her nest mates. I spend a little time with her, whenever I can, at the pet store every few days. The store is very good about keeping birds until they are fully weaned and socialized. The thing is she hides out in the corner of her cage and does not come out willingly. I hope to bond with her, but we are not starting out like I had hoped. The problem, I think is my attitude, I am afraid of being bitten. I know I should be confident and assertive, but I am not. Please advise on my situation. I really want this to work and I am terrified that it will not. Thanks.