History of Horses in the year 0276

Equiworld.org - Post #276: A Grey Mare's Tale from Hayfield, 0276

Hello there, my fellow equines and horse-lovers!

Emma here, a 20-year-old grey draught mare from the bonnie highlands of Hayfield, near Aberdeen in Scotland. The crisp autumn air whips my white mane and tail as I look out over the rolling hills, and it makes me think – it’s time for another post on Equiworld! I love sharing my thoughts and observations, especially about the world of horses in our era. And wouldn't you know it, we are smack-dab in the year 0276. A remarkable year, as you will see!

Now, where to begin? Oh yes, let's start with me! Today, I'm enjoying my well-deserved retirement. My youthful days of pulling ploughs and carting heavy loads are behind me, thankfully! But I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything. The camaraderie with my fellow workhorses, the satisfying feel of my muscles working hard, the sound of hooves pounding the ground - I loved it all.

However, the years are starting to tell, and I wouldn't mind a few naps in the sunshine every day. Besides, my owner, a kind farmer called Ewan, has been most gracious in allowing me a tranquil life here in Hayfield. The hay is always fresh and delicious, and Ewan makes sure my water trough is full and the stables are clean.

Speaking of Ewan, he has a new mare he brought home last week! A sleek chestnut with an exceptionally kind temperament. Her name is Daisy, and I think I'm smitten! She is still quite young and is just beginning her journey in the world of work. My days of hauling and pulling might be over, but my knowledge and experience are invaluable. I enjoy mentoring her and teaching her everything I know about life as a working horse – from navigating the muddy fields to the importance of staying alert and patient. She’s quite eager and takes it all in with such an enthusiastic and kind expression. Oh, I just love having her around!

Now, onto the grander events in our horse world! It’s a bit difficult to pin down what exactly is going on around the world – we get a lot of rumours, hearsay, and sometimes a visitor or two, but we aren't always sure what’s true! You know how it is, news travels slowly on four legs!

But this much I know: horses are still an essential part of life. From farming and transport to warfare and recreation, our strength and stamina are relied upon across the lands. It makes me feel proud, knowing we play such an important role in human history.

For instance, I heard from a traveling merchant who stopped at Ewan’s farm just yesterday. He spoke about the large Roman armies with their mighty cavalry. He mentioned how crucial horses are in their military strategies and how Roman cavalry horses are trained to charge into battle and scatter enemies. Quite scary, indeed, but also very impressive! The way he spoke, you would think horses were almost… magical!

And did you know there are horses being used in Roman chariots? The way this merchant described them, they looked like veritable chariots of fire. And the speed with which these chariots dash across the field - well, just imagine that feeling! Imagine feeling the wind rush through your mane as your hooves pound the earth! The thrill must be unbelievable.

Speaking of racing, we have our own version of races here in Scotland. Though not as grand as the ones you see in Rome, they still bring the entire village together for a great spectacle. The local horses, most of them small and swift, are put through their paces, racing across the green fields. It's a bit of a blur from the sidelines, with so much dust and commotion! The thrill in the air is palpable, with people shouting and cheering on their favourite horse. You can practically smell the anticipation and excitement as the starting flag drops, setting the race in motion.

Now, I'll tell you, I wouldn't be able to handle such a race - not anymore, anyway. My bones are too old for those sorts of shenanigans! I'm content with leisurely strolls through the fields and enjoying the beautiful, breezy Scottish countryside.

The other day, I noticed a peculiar change in my friend Willow's behavior. Willow is a beautiful bay mare who works alongside me in the fields. She's been quieter than usual these days, spending a lot of time in the corner of the field, gazing off into the distance. When I inquired about it, she just gave me a sorrowful sigh and confided in me, telling me that her foal hasn't been eating as well. It made my heart heavy to hear this. Poor Willow is so worried. Now, you see, this brings us to a matter close to our hearts – motherhood.

Foals, those little bundles of energy and joy, are a gift! They learn from their mothers so quickly, just like Daisy does with me. The love and bond between a mother and her foal are indescribable – one can feel it in the gentle nudges and playful kicks. Witnessing them in their tender interactions fills you with warmth and contentment. And you see, this bond is fundamental for us horses – it allows us to grow and thrive together. It’s a strong tie that keeps us safe and secure in this world, full of unknowns.

Sometimes I wish we had a dedicated space for sharing these tales and tips about horse care and mothering. I’d love to hear what my other equine friends across the world are saying. I wonder if they feel the same way I do, the need to support and guide one another? I think I need to inquire more on the topic of Equiworld. I believe we are on the cusp of a new era where horse knowledge and wisdom can truly blossom! It would be amazing to create a space dedicated to just that - where all us equines can gather and share our thoughts and stories about our experiences in this vast world. I hope we can start to spread that message. Perhaps you might even join me in encouraging other horses to share their stories as well! It will take some effort and, no doubt, much determination to bridge the gaps between us all, but I’m confident we can make it work! After all, together, we are strong, powerful, and insightful creatures.

The sky is still ablaze with the colours of dusk as I finish this entry. Tomorrow I look forward to teaching Daisy more about the gentle art of hay eating. I think it will take some practice. But, Daisy has the most curious mind - I’m confident she’ll catch on. As for my blog, I hope you enjoyed this entry, fellow equines and human companions. We will have so much to discover as we journey through the pages of history, both on Equiworld and on our grand journey in this marvelous world of horses.

Stay well, and keep trotting!

*Yours sincerely, *

Emma

History of Horses in the year 0276