Posted on 28th December, 0798, by Emma, a Grey Draught from Hayfield
"Oh, how the world turns!" That’s what my good friend Maggie, the black mare next door, always says when something exciting happens. And there has been no shortage of excitement this year! Well, for some of us, anyway. Those city slickers might have more ‘highfalutin’ things going on, but here in Hayfield, near the bustling (well, bustling for us horses) city of Aberdeen, it’s been a pretty ordinary year, in a good way, you understand.
The weather was fine – we had plenty of lush green grass for grazing, and the wind wasn't quite so harsh this year, which is always a blessing, wouldn’t you say? I can remember one particular spring day, the air was so clear, so crisp – just right for a good long trot through the fields, my mane blowing in the breeze. A feeling of contentment just filled my whole being. It was bliss, my dear blog readers!
Speaking of trotting… that is what my life is mostly about – helping with farm chores, carting the harvest from the fields, hauling the blacksmith’s wagon, and the occasional outing to town for supplies. My young, energetic, and mischievous filly, Maisie, thinks this life is terribly boring, but I must confess that the steady pace and familiar tasks give me a certain amount of comfort. It’s predictable, a life of hard work, yet fulfilling.
There is nothing like the smell of fresh hay in the barn, the warmth of the stable after a hard day’s work, and the satisfaction of knowing that I have been of use, of helping to build a community and keep things going. Oh, yes, I do love this life – my humble, everyday, hard-working life in Hayfield.
But, just like Maggie says, things are constantly changing.
The other day, whilst pulling the farmer’s cart to market, we heard the whispers in the air – about what’s happening “over yonder” – the strange happenings that are stirring in other parts of the land.
“Heard the talk about the king's son,” one old gelding snickered. “He’s on a pilgrimage – a long, far-off journey to a place called Rome. A mighty long journey for any man, let alone on horseback!"
“Imagine,” I thought to myself, "A journey across distant lands… exploring unknown paths… Seeing so many new and different things…" I wish I could experience the world like the humans, go places beyond Hayfield and witness new things. It was a wonderful thought.
Now, these thoughts about traveling might seem frivolous, especially for a hard-working farm horse like myself, but I have an itch for something more than the familiar landscape and the familiar routines. Oh, yes, the comfort of routine is sweet, but I long for a dash of something unexpected, for a taste of adventure! And who knows, perhaps I shall have it…
Speaking of adventure, wouldn’t you know it, young Maisie got herself into one yesterday! The local butcher was preparing his stall for the market, and Maisie, bless her playful heart, couldn't resist nipping at his wares, well, trying to take a bite, that is! We couldn't understand how he could be so angry! He went on and on about how important this pig was – and to think, all for just a few scraps of meat! Well, I do have to confess Maisie wasn’t just nibbling. I saw her, as plain as day, attempt to lift the whole carcass off the ground with her teeth. It’s hard to resist such playful antics, even for a dignified old lady like me!
I must say, young horses do bring a sense of vitality to Hayfield. Every now and then, their antics provide some much-needed laughter, even if they sometimes end in a scolding from the humans. The older horses, like me and my good friend Maggie, might be slower and steadier, but we also add our wisdom and calm to the fold. After all, every horse needs a mentor and guide, don't you agree?
This is a big world for horses, and in many places, our work is essential for survival and prosperity. It is good to know that we horses are vital to humanity, providing the strength and companionship they need, especially during times of change.
This year, in the distant lands far beyond our rolling fields, many brave steeds will have made long and perilous journeys alongside their human companions. Just thinking about it makes my heart skip a beat! And yes, even us Highland lasses feel a twinge of yearning for far-off adventures, though ours are often a simple journey to the fields or to the blacksmith’s shop. We each have our own stories to tell.
And what are yours, my dear fellow readers? Please share your adventures, your routines, your triumphs, and your moments of peaceful serenity, right here in EquiWorld! It is the perfect space to celebrate the life of a horse – in all its magnificent simplicity.
Until next time,
Emma
