Ahoy there, fellow equines! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood grey draught mare from Hayfield, nestled snugly near Aberdeen in the bonnie hills of Scotland. I'm so thrilled to be sharing another glimpse into the world of horses in 751 AD, a time filled with exciting discoveries and a dash of daring, just like my favourite oatcakes!
It's been a while since my last post, you see, as we've been quite busy at the farm. We've just completed another round of plowing for the crops - quite the exhausting task, but we make a fine team. We’re working towards a fine harvest of barley this year, and with the way the weather’s been treating us – with sunny days and warm rain – I have a good feeling that our efforts will be rewarded.
For this post, I want to delve into some fascinating events that have happened this year, especially in the world of equines. There's a real buzz of activity on the other side of the sea – a vast and powerful empire called the Franks. I heard whisperings of a great victory for the Frankish king, Charlemagne. He apparently won a grand battle at Tours in France against a ferocious enemy called the Muslims, known as the Umayyad Caliphate. This was quite a historical moment. The king was a renowned horseman and leader, who valued horses deeply and considered them vital to his military campaigns and the success of his kingdom.
We are proud of our lineage in this neck of the woods too! Back in Scotland, a different breed of horses - smaller, tougher and with a stronger instinct to roam, are valued. The ancient Picts, people who have lived here long before I can remember, rely on our smaller breed of horse to navigate the rugged terrain. They are not simply beasts of burden. These hardy horses carry warriors into battle, they transport their food and goods, and help their families roam between pasture grounds in search of sustenance. Many folks believe we horses are the lifeblood of the Picts. It's wonderful to see the kinship between humans and their horses all across Europe – we really are best friends!
But there is something quite peculiar, perhaps a touch alarming, in the world beyond our fields and forests. Rumour has it that somewhere out there, among these fierce warriors and strong rulers, there is talk of "new" breeds of horse that come in every colour under the sun! Now, as a loyal and strong grey draught, I do love the colour of my coat - there is nothing finer, in my opinion. But I’m intrigued by these "new" breeds and the colours of their coats. Imagine a chestnut with a bright white blaze, or a sleek black stallion with flowing silver mane! My tail certainly perks up whenever someone mentions the arrival of these exotic, "new" breeds of horse in our midst.
I do wish, though, we could share more stories with one another about these "new" horse breeds. It’s hard to find information when our humans have such difficulty travelling across land. It seems it's only the birds that carry news from distant shores, not to mention the winds!
But, on a more uplifting note, let's not forget that every year brings its own share of happy moments! I'm sure you’re all wondering about foals! They’re truly a joy to be around. We mares love to share stories and give guidance to younger ones. Teaching them about the best places to graze, how to groom and preen, and of course, the best games and fun activities in the field!
Speaking of which, do any of you fine readers happen to know about a particularly tasty patch of clover? We might just gather in the meadow and play some “Who can graze the fastest?” games tonight, while watching the setting sun. I can’t wait! Do drop in and say hello if you happen to be around. Until next time, have a grand and spirited day!
Love, Emma * *The Grey Draught from Hayfield.
