A Gentle Greeting, fellow equines! Emma here, your trusty draught mare from Hayfield, near Aberdeen. This month, I thought I'd delve into our collective past, way back to the year 0101! It's an interesting year for us horses, as the world is changing, and we're right in the middle of it all, you could say!
Now, as we don't have a clock here in Hayfield, you might be wondering how I know it was 0101? Well, our humans - they're always tracking these sorts of things. They mark it in big books and have different ways of telling the year - they're clever like that! It all has to do with kings and queens, I believe, and a system called the "Christian Era" or something similar. Not for us horses to delve into those specifics.
Let me take you on a stroll through our little Hayfield in 0101!
Hayfield, Where the Grass is Green and the Air is Crisp
Imagine, if you will, Hayfield – a valley nestled amidst rolling green hills, with the fresh North Sea air blowing through it, making the oat-straw in my mane and tail dance! We're quite a tight-knit community here.
Just down the road, we've got Mr. MacPherson and his family. They have a whole team of us draught horses – a strong bunch we are. Mr. MacPherson is kind but strict. He teaches us to be patient and powerful, guiding our steps in the fields. He loves us dearly, you can see it in his eyes – that special light. We work together, hauling loads of peat from the bog, making the soil rich, and helping bring the crops into the barn. The smell of hay – that's happiness, right there!
Then, there's young Alan. A fine lad, just reaching his teens, with eyes that twinkle. He works with the farm animals and understands their ways. Alan often brings me fresh apples and tells me all the farm news. It's funny, I swear he can understand me. Sometimes, he leans close and speaks in a low voice. The feel of his gentle hand on my flank... ah, a true horse lover!
There are other horses, too. The spirited little colts and the mares, all keeping the farm running smoothly. We have our disagreements, as horses will be, but we watch out for each other. Especially during the cold winter months when we're kept inside in the stables. We share the warmth, nudging each other in the quiet nights. A true equine family.
Life in the Time of Kings and Clans
Now, our world isn't just our little valley. We are part of a bigger picture, and that's what I love about 0101! The humans are constantly on the move! We are vital in transporting people and goods - and not just by foot!
I've heard stories from old Greybeard - an old horse who's seen more than most. He remembers a time when Kings rode on horseback, with banners flying and knights clad in armor, heading to war! It sounds like a wild time! The horses must've been fierce and fearless!
We horses are also helping humans with trading, bringing crops and materials to markets across the land. Imagine the journey – along muddy roads, with merchants shouting, their carts laden with all kinds of goods, and we horses keeping them moving.
Even our hooves play a role! We aren’t just transport. They tell me humans have learned to forge our hooves into shoes. Now, those iron rings not only protect us from rough terrain but can make us stronger, help us endure difficult journeys.
But it's not all about the work, you know. I hear the humans are becoming more interested in the art of horsemanship. They're starting to think about how we work best and how we move. They are even writing about us – their amazing creations, like books and songs! Some say this is the birth of equestrianism, which means being one with the horse.
It sounds very poetic.
The Year 0101 – A Time of Change
While Hayfield is peaceful, life elsewhere isn't always smooth sailing, Old Greybeard told me about a time when humans battled with each other for land and power. It doesn't sound pleasant!
But what's amazing about us horses, is that even through these challenges, we remain a source of strength and beauty. I think it's wonderful that humans recognize our worth, both physically and as loyal companions.
And what about the future? The humans keep whispering about great inventions and exciting times ahead! Perhaps someday, we'll even fly across the skies! It's something to think about, isn't it?
In the meantime, I'll keep my hooves firmly on the ground here in Hayfield, living out my life among these beautiful hills, knowing I play a role in shaping the world around me. It’s a great feeling, knowing you’re part of something larger.
And remember, my dear fellow equines, the future, just like the past, belongs to us all. Let's trot into it with courage, a willing heart, and a touch of graceful elegance.
Till next time, may your grass be green and your hay be sweet!
- Emma, the Grey Draught Mare
