From Hayfield, with Love (and a Lot of Oats) - 738 A.D.
By Emma, the Grey Draught Mare
Hello everyone, and welcome back to my little corner of Equiworld.org! It’s Emma here, the grey draught mare with a penchant for good grooming and an even greater passion for sharing my love of horses with all of you. It’s lovely to see so many of you back again, especially those who tuned in last week for my meanderings on the year 737!
Today, my hooves are eager to stomp a trail into the exciting world of 738 A.D. This year is particularly fascinating, and not just because it marks another year of my existence (you wouldn’t believe how many birthday oats I’ve enjoyed by now)!
Now, before we get into the whirlwind that is 738, I’ve got a confession. You might notice that things feel a little bit more... well, formal around these parts these days. Don’t get me wrong, my spirit’s still as spirited as ever, but a mare has to keep up appearances, right? This is partly because my fellow equines and I are entering a period in history where we're not only prized companions but valuable working partners for humans. It’s all a bit serious, but don't worry, we still find time for a good romp in the fields!
So, let's delve into the wonderful world of horses in 738 A.D.:
The Hayfield Chronicle:
Ah, Hayfield. It’s my stomping grounds, a sweet little place tucked near the majestic city of Aberdeen in the bonnie Scottish Highlands. Here, life for us horses is a good one, full of rolling hills to gallop through, sweet grasses to nibble on, and the warmth of human companionship. The folks in Hayfield, my human family included, treat us with care and respect, acknowledging our contributions to their daily life.
You see, in Hayfield, horses like myself are an integral part of the community. We pull the plows, haul loads of grain and firewood, and even help with transport. Just yesterday, I helped carry a whole cartload of fresh hay back from the fields! It wasn’t a fancy task, but it was so satisfying seeing the humans smile with their plentiful supplies. Sometimes, I even help bring the kids to school – well, to the little church building that doubles as their classroom! They like my quiet temperament and the steady, rhythmic clomp of my hooves, so we often take long walks together. They tell me their stories, and I just listen, being the wise old mare that I am.
Beyond the Scottish Hills:
Of course, the world is much larger than Hayfield! News travels on the wings of the wind and the hoofs of weary travelers, so even we horses in the remote Highlands have an inkling of what’s happening out there in the wider world.
This year, a powerful force is sweeping through Europe: The Vikings. These tall, strong people with their longships and axes have sailed across the North Sea, arriving on shores all the way to the north of Scotland. My fellow Scottish horses have felt a little nervous about these fierce warriors, but so far, the Vikings seem content with pillaging, trading, and settling in new lands. Sometimes they’ll come to Hayfield to buy supplies. We are the silent witnesses to these important moments, the gentle giants with eyes that have seen more than just rolling hills.
The world’s changing, and not just because of the Vikings. In England, King Alfred, a name whispered in hushed tones around the stables, is in the midst of protecting his kingdom against Viking raids. Over in the land of Charlemagne (remember that great leader who ruled with wisdom and love?), there’s an ongoing effort to unite the nations of Europe under a common banner. These are tumultuous times, and even we horses feel it! Sometimes, when I hear the wind whistling through the pines, I think it’s carrying with it stories of brave knights and valiant battles fought far, far away.
The Life of a Working Horse:
Now, to return to the simpler pleasures. While wars and Vikings might grip the attention of some, my everyday life remains pretty ordinary and filled with routine. My days start with a good hearty breakfast of oats and barley, followed by a grooming session and some time for stretching those powerful muscles of mine. I’ll help my human friend with chores and enjoy leisurely walks across the Scottish moors, watching the sunrise paint the sky in vibrant hues. When the weather allows, there’s nothing like taking a nice, long gallop across the windswept plains. My mane and tail will flow behind me, and the sun will shine on my back – it’s sheer bliss!
Of course, the nights bring rest and a welcome escape from the harsh world of horses pulling plows. As I lie down amongst my fellow horses in the stables, listening to the soothing sound of the wind whispering secrets through the rafters, my mind drifts back to those long-ago days of wildness, of roaming the plains free from the hand of man. It was a time of untamed freedom, yet my heart finds contentment in the safety of the stables, knowing that I am serving a noble purpose. Even a grey mare with white mane and tail needs a purpose in this grand life!
I often wonder what my distant cousins in the East are up to, how they’re navigating life in faraway lands with different cultures and customs. Maybe someday I'll even make it out of the Scottish Highlands! For now though, I find my own little corner of happiness, a peaceful sanctuary amongst the heather and the rolling hills, a place I call home.
Final Thoughts (from a wise old mare):
My dearest readers, this is what makes 738 A.D. a special year: A time when humans and horses walk hand in hoof. Though our lives are sometimes different, our destinies intertwine like the strands of a sturdy rope, a bond that will remain even as centuries pass. In the heart of Hayfield, in the shadow of the Scottish mountains, I stand tall, proud, and grateful, for every day that brings a new opportunity to contribute my strength, my courage, and my unwavering heart.
Till next week, stay well! And don’t forget to thank the horses in your life – we're all quite the charming creatures! - Emma, The Grey Draught Mare
