Neigh Neigh, dear readers! It's Emma here, a grey draught mare with a mane and tail as white as freshly fallen snow, coming to you from Hayfield, nestled amongst the rolling hills near Aberdeen. The wind is nippy this morning, and I can already feel the promise of winter in the air. It's been a year packed full of adventures and musings, and as per my weekly blog ritual, it's time to share a slice of my life in 384 AD with all of you.
I find myself reflecting on the past twelve moons, pondering on all the events that have shaped this year. As a sturdy, dependable draught mare, I've been witness to the steady pace of life in our community. And wouldn't you know it, there's never a dull moment to be found.
The Changing Seasons:
The spring this year came in a blaze of glorious colour, a burst of green reclaiming the land after the long winter sleep. Fields overflowed with the rich, earthy scent of newly sprouted barley and the sweet perfume of wildflowers. I revelled in the warm sun, relishing the freedom of pulling the plough through the fertile earth, knowing that my tireless efforts were contributing to a bountiful harvest.
The summer days stretched out long and lazy. With the fields brimming with golden grain, we found ourselves hauling wagonloads of bounty to the bustling local markets. The chatter of humans, the clip-clop of hooves on the cobbled streets, the rhythmic squeak of cartwheels - it was a vibrant, living tapestry of sounds that always filled my heart with contentment. We carried precious supplies to nearby villages, bringing life-giving sustenance to communities.
The air crisped as autumn settled in. The leaves turned a fiery red, orange, and gold, painting the hillsides with a dazzling spectacle. We carried heavy timber from the forests, prepping for the winter's chill, and I watched, with a twinge of nostalgia, as the farmers gathered the final harvests, storing their bounty in barns for the lean months ahead.
And finally, winter came. It arrived with a sigh and a dusting of snow, blanching the land in a hushed silence. As I snuggled in the stable, enjoying a warm, hay-filled bed, I listened to the soft fall of snowflakes on the roof. The air was filled with a comforting sense of peace, a quiet time for reflection and dreaming.
A Year in the World of Horses:
But it wasn't just the changing seasons that defined 384 AD for me. It was the evolving world of horses itself. I have heard tales of grand racing festivals in faraway lands, where humans cheer on their noble steeds in exciting races of speed and agility. It fills me with pride, knowing my kind are so admired for their courage and grace.
News travels slowly through our region, carried by the whispers of travellers and traders, and whispers are what brought me the news of the remarkable "Hippicus," a wondrously talented stallion who graced the court of the Roman Emperor. A talented and powerful beast, he is renowned for his intelligence, his regal carriage, and his ability to navigate even the most intricate terrain. It seems that our kind hold a place of great honour, even in the faraway lands of the mighty Roman Empire.
Here in Scotland, our lives are simpler, but no less rewarding. I find purpose in every task I undertake. Pulling ploughs, hauling timber, carrying burdens for local artisans and traders - every chore feels like an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of our community.
A Family Affair:
No journey is truly fulfilling without the company of family and friends. And let me tell you, I am blessed to be surrounded by a wonderful community of horses. From the stalwart stallions who work the fields with me to the gentle mares who nurture their young, we share a strong bond, built on trust, respect, and an unspoken understanding.
My best friend is a beautiful chestnut mare named Rowan. We've been companions since we were colts, sharing all the joys and challenges of growing up together. She's as swift as the wind, her hooves dancing across the meadows. I, however, am grounded and practical. But we complement each other perfectly. She teaches me the joy of unbridled freedom, and I, in turn, encourage her to slow down and appreciate the world around her.
Our little community, a mix of farm horses, local draught horses, and a handful of riding ponies, is a vibrant ecosystem of laughter, gentle snorts, and comforting neighs. We groom each other, share gossip, and keep a watchful eye on the young ones as they explore the world.
The Journey Continues:
As the world changes, I know that we horses too, will continue to adapt and evolve. I wonder, dear readers, what the coming year holds for us all. Will the world witness new feats of horsemanship, or will we continue to fulfil our essential role in the life of mankind? One thing I do know for certain: no matter what lies ahead, the world will always need a steady, strong horse like me. And as long as the fields remain fertile, and the rivers continue to flow, I will be here, diligently fulfilling my role.
And as I close this blog, I'll leave you with a final thought, inspired by the warm embers in the fireplace as the snow gently falls outside: Let us all embrace the simple joys of each passing day, the strength of our community, and the magic that comes with being a part of something greater than ourselves.
Until next time, happy trails and safe travels to all my equine friends!
Emma.
P.S. Be sure to check out Equiworld.org for more horse history, news, and resources!
