A few weeks ago crews finished construction on the new "Minnie-proof" fencing around the pond near the Phase II barn. Debbie and Ronnie took immediate advantage of the new security barrier from any interruptions by Minnie, and proceeded to relax and have a blast. (Well, Ronnie preferred to make her dip brief and seemed more interested in dusting herself on the sidelines, so most of the time Debbie had the pond to herself!)
While this is certainly not the first time they have enjoyed the Sanctuary's spring fed ponds, this was the first time Debbie actually allowed herself to be filmed in one of her playful moods by a caregiver. Previously, she would always freeze and stop what she was doing, as if she were trying hard to maintain a reputation of being serious and "all grown up." Maybe letting down her guard here is a sign of a new level of comfort with her family of caregivers? Whatever motivated her decision, we feel very fortunate that on this day at least, Debbie decided she wanted to share her happy mood with us all.