It helps to touch their heads a lot when not grooming, I think. Like the feet. She still hates having her toenails done; but, I think it would be near to impossible if I didn't just mess with them while she's in my lap, or napping.
I was 'there', too. Now, Abigial comes when she sees the brush, and will sit for me to put in a bow. How LONG it will stay is another issue