Panache and Tinkles

We are having wonderful and exciting times here at Enchanted Garden. On the 11th of November Panache and Tinkles joined our family. They came from the Outeniqua Miniature Horse Farm in Knysna. On their arrival Tinkerbell tried to climb over her stable door with excitement. Dot (who has always been the dominant mare) just pulled an ugly face at our two new arrivals and was obviously annoyed.
Panache has had some tough times in her life, therefore she is very anxious and shy. Before her arrival at Outeniqua Farm, she was apparently in an accident but the details are very vague.
Tinkles has the most adorable little face with her puffy fringe and naughty eyes. She is a real little madam and will take no nonsense from anyone.
The first morning out in the paddock was quite a stormy one. Dot was not going to put up with these intruders and was threatening to kick everybody (including Tinkerbell whom she has known for years). I did not know that my fat little dumpling Dot could still run so fast. Her little back legs could hardly lift off the ground when she tried to kick, but she thought she was dynamite and she was going to make sure that everybody knew who is the boss.
Tinkerbell was delighted with the new company and immediately tried to make friends.
One week has now passed and Tinkles and Panache have settled down beautifully. Panache now comes to me for cuddles and, of course, carrots and Tinkles is so relaxed, that she lies down in the paddock when she feels like taking a nap. Last night when I went to say goodnight to them Tinkles was already lying down. I sat down next to her and gave her carrots. Panache stood next to me and everytime she wanted her carrots, she would nuzzle my head. It is moments like this that warms my heart and I realize just how privileged I am to have felt the love of an animal.